While the AGM was held this year in the football pre-season rather than post -season 2008, a poor response was still received from junior parents and playing members. The largest single group in the club, the junior parents, saw just 3 parents present, represented by the current management committee members. President Andrew Hickman, in presenting his annual report, was confident that 2009 would produce better results on and off the field given the commitment of the club's management committee and volunteers, however, he spoke of the increasing load for a few who work for the majority, and that the long-term viability of the club can only be ensured with increased volunteer participation. (The President's Report can be read in full below)
Similar experiences by other clubs and community organisations has seen the introduction of more reimbursed / paid positions with the additional costs passed on through increases in players' fees, bar and canteen prices. This is not an ideal proposition for any club, however, to assist in this area in 2009, all player's fees will include a ground maintenance levy. All junior, senior and supers/masters players will pay a player's fee. Elected committees have been cognisant of the cost to players and parents in providing the opportunity to participate in sport, however, a recognition that it is the player's, parent's, supporter's club and not some else's, is paramount to its viability.
The meeting was opened by President Andrew Hickman upon a quorum able to be gathered. Club Life Members Pat Maine, Maria Weaver, Alister King and Barry Turnbull were welcomed along with the other Members who showed their interest in the future managament of their club.
The audited financial statements and auditor's report were distributed to Members present. The Club incurred an operating loss for the 2007 - 2008 financial year; with the lack of on-field success in the Seniors resulting in lower turnover, given as one of many reasons for the downturn in the bottom line. President Hickman also spoke of several strategies now in place towards a better year in 2009, including new Senior coaching staff and players, the securing of committed sponsors to the club and senior football program. and the growth of the Supers/Masters as an integral group within the club. Also, it is envisaged that the upgrade of the ground's lighting will increase opportunities for home games and increase turnover through the social club.
Upon the current Management Committee stepping down, the nominations received were read to the meeting. Most were from the current committee. Apart form the Secretary position, there were no other nominations received for the elected positions representing the Members. Given that there were 300 full Members eligible for the postions, it was disappointing that more people did not seek nomination.
The current Management Committee was re-elected unopposed. In addition, Peter Trigger was elected as Secretary.
President: Andrew Hickman
Vice-President: Mark Moor
Secretary: Peter Trigger
Treasurer: Denis McCaig
Senior Football Chair: Graham Murrihy
Junior Football Chair: Stewart Stinton
Committee Person: Ken Groves
Committee Person: Tony Ling
The AGM preceded an General Meeting where Tony Ling volunteered to establish a steering committee towards organising reunions and celebrations of past players and supporters for the 30 year anniversary of the Senior Club as well as the 20 year anniversary of the Club's first premiership. Contact Tony 0407 288 278 if you are interested in assisting or wish to attend.
Members wishing to volunteer in any way during the year should see President Andrew Hickman or other Management Committee members.
Last Modified on 05/08/2010 01:49