Judo Western Australia held its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, 23 October at the Ibis Hotel Perth, immediately before the 2026 Judo WA Gala & Awards Night.
The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the past year and recognise those who contribute to the development of judo in Western Australia. It also marked several significant moments, as Catia Maia was conferred Life Membership, Marlee Mickle concluded her service as a Director, and Candice Uyami was welcomed to the Board.
Life Membership Conferred on Catia Maia
Judo WA was delighted to confer Life Membership on Catia Maia in recognition of her sustained and significant contribution to judo in Western Australia.
Since 2012, Catia has been actively involved in WA State Training, supporting generations of athletes through coaching, preparation and ongoing development. Her contribution has extended to accompanying State teams to the Australian National Championships and supporting young athletes attending national development camps in Canberra.
Catia has also volunteered her time as a coach on the WA–Japan Judo Exchange Program, helping guide and supervise athletes throughout their overseas training experience. Her broader coaching experience includes two years leading the WA Hub and service as an Australian National Cadet Team Coach.
Through the establishment of the Australian Institute of Judo, Catia has created opportunities for participants to progress from grassroots involvement to competitive judo. She has also consistently made the club’s facilities available for State Training, weigh-ins and other Judo WA activities, supporting the wider community alongside her own members.
As Chair of the Judo WA Pathways Committee, Catia continues to contribute to the planning and coordination of athlete development opportunities across the state. Her service also includes countless hours volunteering at events and supporting programs, a contribution previously recognised through the Judo WA Volunteer of the Year award.
Life Membership recognises the breadth and lasting value of this service. Judo WA congratulates Catia and thanks her for the time, knowledge, leadership and care she continues to share with our community.
Thanking Marlee Mickle
Marlee Mickle concluded six years of service on the Judo WA Board, having completed three consecutive two-year terms—the maximum permitted under the constitution.
Serving on the Board requires a sustained commitment of time, energy and care for the future of the sport. Across her three terms, Marlee contributed to the governance and direction of Judo WA while continuing her involvement in the wider judo community.
Judo WA extends its sincere thanks to Marlee for her dedication, service and contribution over the past six years. We wish her well and look forward to her continued involvement in WA judo.
Welcoming Candice Uyami
Judo WA is pleased to welcome Candicelyn “Candice” Uyami, who was elected unopposed to a two-year term as an Elected Director.
A co-founder, administrator and coach at Lakay Judo Club, Candice brings practical experience in grassroots sport and a strong understanding of the work involved in supporting athletes, families and volunteers. Her club involvement spans membership administration, communications, registrations, event coordination and athlete participation.
Professionally, Candice holds an engineering degree and has extensive experience in internal sales and project coordination, bringing skills in administration, planning, communication and stakeholder management.
In her nomination, Candice highlighted her commitment to dependable, behind-the-scenes service and creating a positive, inclusive and supportive community. These qualities, together with her experience across club operations and professional project delivery, will be valuable contributions to the Board.
Judo WA congratulates Candice on her election and thanks all directors for the time and expertise they contribute to the ongoing development of our sport.
