Valerie Barrass

Sports Hall of Fame Inductee

Val Barrass, 2025 Honour Roll inductee, dedicated 80 years to Goulburn Valley Netball. Beginning in 1943 at age 12, she rarely missed a Saturday, evolving from player to official, mentor, and control box steward.

In her career, Val was soon recognised as a valuable player, winning the Shepparton Basketball Best and Fairest Award in 1952.

After concluding her remarkable five-decade playing career, Val transitioned into umpiring, earning widespread respect as she continued officiating well into her 70s.

She earned the Victorian Netball Distinction Award in 2001 and in 2018 was named Volunteer of the Year in Netball Victoria’s community awards.

Post-retirement, she ran the control box every weekend, which was named in her honour in 2018.

Val’s legacy lives on through the Val Barrass Umpire Award and her lifelong commitment to netball and community.