– Story by Connie Rowe (BQ Media Volunteer)
Meet Cairns’ New Game Development Officer: mila bender
Mila Bender was just five years old when she first encountered baseball at a school clinic. From that moment, she was hooked. Now, 15 years later, she’s stepping into the role of Baseball Queensland’s Cairns Game Development Officer, ready to introduce the next generation to the sport that shaped her life.
The simple joy of hitting off a tee and playing catch in the schoolyard left a lasting impact. Mila and her sister, eager for more, convinced their dad to take them to a local come-and-try day—unaware of the family connection they were about to rediscover. “He never told us at first,” Mila says, recalling how her dad quietly encouraged them to play. “He wanted it to be our decision.”
It wasn’t just a new sport for Mila and her sister—it was a homecoming for their dad, who had played growing up. That year, Baseball Cairns gained not just one player but an entire family. “Every weekend became truly special,” she says. “Getting to play alongside my sister and dad was incredible.” The game quickly became a cornerstone of their family time, strengthening their bond on and off the field.
But baseball gave Mila more than just family memories—it shaped her into who she is today. “Through baseball, I’ve developed lifelong friendships, travelled, and grown in confidence,” she says. “It’s made me who I am.” She describes the Cairns baseball community as a hidden gem. “Not many people know it exists, but once they discover it, there’s hardly any turning back. The foundations laid by dedicated players here show just how much love there is for the game.”
Now, as Cairns’ Game Development Officer, Mila is eager to pass that love along. “Grassroots sport creates opportunities—for skill development, travel, friendships, and personal growth,” she says. “In regional areas like Cairns, the potential is limitless.” She’s excited to meet new young players and hopes to be part of someone else’s journey in falling in love with the game.
Free Baseball Clinics & Cairns Information Night
After an incredible week of clinics in Townsville, we’re heading to Cairns next week, and there are still a few spots available! Open to Prep–Year 6, these free Aussie T-Ball and Baseball5 clinics will be run by accredited coaches, giving kids across North Queensland a chance to experience baseball in a fun and exciting way. Book your School now: https://www.baseballqueensland.com.au/nq-schools-2025/
We’re also hosting a Cairns Baseball Information Night on March 11 at Trinity Beach (6:30-7:30 PM). This session will bring together clubs, coaches, and members to discuss Baseball Queensland’s plans for the region, club funding opportunities, new development programs, and an exclusive first look at BQ’s new mobile app. Meet the Game Development Team, learn about Buddy League, Baseball5, and Women & Girls initiatives, and find out how clubs can get involved in growing the game.
For more information, visit: BQ Info Night (Cairns)