SAERA’s 2019 SMC has just passed its two month anniversary and so I thought it timely to give an update on some of the issues raised at the AGM that I know members would be keen to hear about.
You have already received a comprehensive report on the ride trailer. I sincerely thank Jodie Luck for her thoroughness, due diligence and professional approach in managing what was a sensitive and vexing matter for members and I am confident that the adjustments made to the trailer have improved its towing and useability for all members.
An outstanding matter picked up by the incoming committee has been the finalisation of the 2018 accounts. A small group has been working and gathering the required records for the finalisation to occur and I am very pleased to report that we are nearly there. Members were advised at the AGM that there were $13,000 of unallocated/unreceipted payments. Many records have been recovered and this is now $111 of which we are unsure of what it was paid out to/for. This is a very pleasing outcome and I am sure a relief to many members. The accounts will soon be forwarded to an auditor. Audited accounts will then be made available to members.
One key activity that I am looking forward to delivering this year, as I believe it will greatly improve the way the club functions and manages its activities, is an updated constitution. A small group have already met and drafted a Discussion Paper for SMC to consider later this month. This will inform the draft Constitution which will be posted on the website in July and members will be asked to provide written feedback. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas.
In line with Tania’s brief presentation at the AGM regarding SAERA’s Member Protection Policy 3 Executive Positions on Committee have been identified as requiring a screening check as well as 11 Chief Stewards (14 people in total). As at 5 April 2019, 8 screening checks have been completed, 3 are in progress (pending completion or ID verification) and 3 are yet to be completed by the applicant.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of some of our valued members, the 2019 Ride Calendar is starting to fill. We have a good balance between old faithful courses and some exciting new courses and formats for members to try. I would particularly like to thank Lainie Ray for ensuring SAERA can offer a State Championship this year and encourage all members to offer their support to help Lainie deliver what I am sure will be a great event.
Many other milestones are being achieved by committee so please check back with the website regularly for updates on processes, for example we can now accept applications for log books electronically and the trial of ride payments happening for Mil Lel.
We’ve had a fantastic start to the 2019 season and I look forward to seeing you and your horses enjoying what the rest of the season has to offer. Safe riding
Melanie Scott
