Recognizing the need to coordinate all local sports in a much more effective way, a group of volunteers established the NRSC in 1999, to pool ideas, provide expertise and resources, and advocate for better sports facilities. The four volunteers all had long standing connections and involvemnet with a variety of local sports and their commitment got the first tentative steps of the new organisation going. The four volunteers were: John Dooley, Roy Heuckendorff, Terri Kinrade, and Barry Taylor. Although not officially a founding member, Laura Torrens took on the role of Secretary Treasurer in those first years and has been with the organization ever since, now taking the Chair position. The intent of the NRSC was to collaborate, coordinate, and lobby on behalf of the needs of all the local sport groups. The NRSC has been instrumental in securing new facilities such as the Lakeside Park playing fields and the Nelson & District Community Complex, with then Chair Roy Heuckendorff taking the lead in both projects. The NRSC also has a License to occupy the Civic Arena as negotiated by Heuckendorff after the successful referendum for new facilities, and operates the facility on behalf of all ice user groups. The Nelson Regional Sports Council is a not for profit organization.
