AGM 2025.
Our 37th A.G.M. was held on Thursday 14th August, starting 1.30 pm at, what turned out to be an ideal venue, the Taieri Bowling Club, Mosgiel.
With 63 members in attendance, the meeting initially chaired by President Phil Keene, began with a welcome, and Secretary Jenni Wright reading the names of the 24 apologies received. The procedural processes of passing the Minutes of the previous A.G.M, Matters Arising and Correspondence were dealt with smoothly and swiftly. A testimony to the work of outgoing President Phil, and Secretary/Treasurer Jenni.
President Phil Keene, then read his 2024-25 report; With our membership of 131, including 7 Life Members, at the time of the A.G.M., the health of the Club was emphasised. Five highlights of the year were our Christmas Walk at Takitakitoa Wetlands, the Kelvin Heights Camp, a “Cuppa” afternoon at Wal’s Cafe, a “Travel Night,” with 45 members attending, and our mid-winter Lunch at Waihola, attended by 65 members. As well, associated club activities were mentioned, being submissions made to Councils regarding Puketapu/Palmerston Hill and the Tunnels Trust. Acknowledgement of our track clearing efforts during the year followed, along with the ongoing nature of these. Finally, the smooth functioning of the 2024-25 Committee was emphasised, with thanks. Phil’s choice of a quote from Brian Turner, highlighted his own great appreciation of nature and the outdoors.
The next Agenda item was the Financial Report. After the formality of acceptance of the Club’s financial position, the Committee’s recommendation that the annual subscription be increased from $10 to $15 per year, to cover expected increased future recce’ reimbursements and track clearing expenses was accepted. The meeting was advised that our new Financial Reviewer for the 2025-26 year is Trevor Flack.
At this stage, existing President Phil, vacated the Chair and was replaced by incumbent President John Gardiner. Our election of officers followed, with unanimous appointments of; – President- John Gardiner
Vice-President- Lyn Keene
Immediate Past-President – Phil Keene (an automatic appointment)
Secretary- Wendy Langley
Treasurer- Sarah McCormack,
Communications Officer – Ross Davies
Committee- Pam Cocks, Barbara Shackell, Graeme Souter, Esther Willis, Katrina McKenzie, and Jenni Wright.
Incoming President, John Gardiner then thanked Immediate Past President, Phil Keene for his services as President over the last four years, Incoming Secretary, Wendy Langley then thanking outgoing Secretary/Treasurer Jenni Wright for her services, also over the last four years. Both were presented with small tokens of the Club’s appreciation.
Next, Webteam and Committee member, Graeme Souter, under ” Webteam Update” on our Agenda, addressed the meeting. In Graeme’s own words, below is a summary of his address
Graeme Souter gave a practical presentation of the clubs Information and Trip Posts that are linked to the Upcoming Trips and the weekly notices sent to members. These posts were introduced following the revamp of the website last year and the move to a single post per trip undertaken with the aim of providing a single resource incorporating all the trips, both old and new on the site. They also include relevant information relating to the trips such as gradings, road distances, directions and if relevant a note about access permissions. A map showing the general area not the actual trip route, of a particular destination is also attached. Currently there are over 100 titles completed, all found under Trip Destination Summaries on the Website menus, under Members. A request from Graeme that any errors, and or feedback on any of the Information and Trip Posts would be most welcome.
The business part of our meeting closed at 2.13 pm, when our Guest Speaker, Taylor Davies – Colly, Communications and Advisory Lead, Orokanui Ecosanctuary, was introduced by Graeme Souter. To quote an abstract from the A.G.M.’s minutes:-
“The vision of the sanctuary: a healthy self-sustaining ecosystem, free of all introduced mammals, and comprising indigenous species that are appropriate to the Orokanui forest. Where people can enjoy a peaceful encounter with nature, and from which they may take recreation, refreshment, new knowledge, new skills, and a new commitment to conservation. The Ecosanctuary is an amazing asset to our community.”
Taylor was thanked by Clive Crossman, who presented him with a small gift, to show our appreciation.
Afternoon tea followed, with cake, biscuits etc. provided by our Club. Thanks to Jenni and Barbara for organising this, and all the kitchen helpers.
John Gardiner