2016 AGM – President’s Report
The club, as always, has had a big year.
We successfully assembled 600 birthing kits, in July, which were sent to Nigeria.
In October, our second High Tea Affair was held, to the delight of all attending. In addition to a fabulous spread provided by members and lovely stalls, we were entertained by Michelle Brown and her band. Ladies were dancing in the aisles and everyone seemed to enjoy the atmosphere created. We are delighted to have secured Michelle again for the next high tea.
November saw assembly of hampers and delivery of carloads of goodies to our charities – Sonshine Sanctuary, SunnyKids and Lions Emergency Accommodation Centre. We are certain they were received with a joy equal to that experienced by those packing them.
The new year was launched into with vigour, with a relaxing dinner and meeting at my place, in January – followed by a successful Information Night in February: attended by six guests.
March saw a flurry of activity with another successful IWD function at the Palmwoods Hotel, followed by a movie night at Nambour Cinemas. Both were well attended and the movie night was financially successful. Thanks to the organisers and helpers at both events.
April saw us hosting the Area 1&3 meeting: attended by 85 ladies. The theme of ‘Courage’, was explored firstly by Adele Rice, in relation to refugees and social cohesion. Then the ladies from Forum spoke on meeting protocols and the qualities of a good chair. Forum helps women gain experience in meeting procedure and gives a safe place to practice – I think Zonta offers the same. This was followed by sessions on ‘Leadership’. These examined the reasons women do not feature in leadership roles: societal expectations, organisational culture, family responsibilities and personal lack of self belief. We then examined what is needed to fix this and what can Zonta do.
May saw us rally around with friends and family to run a Monster Garage Sale for the second time.
I would like to thank the board for their efforts. Several took on new roles, despite initial reservations. Uli has been a great secretary; Margaret gamely attempted treasurer, even though “numbers and spreadsheets were not her thing”. She has been ably assisted by Barb, who has also served as Vice-president. Susan has excelled as the Chair of Membership. Several new members have been welcomed to the club. To all club members who have contributed at events – organising, helping on the day or behind the scenes – thank you – it is never possible without you. Also we are not to forget our HonZons, who ably assist in so many ways – from honorary photographer, to barmen, drinks waiters and removalists.
I encourage everyone to consider new roles in Zonta. Others are there to assist you and provide support and encouragement. In the same way as you believe in the ability of others – believe in yourself.
Personally, it has been a big year for me, in Zonta. I served as Conference Chair at the District 22 conference in October – which was a challenge and an honour. I have now been asked to serve as Australia/NZ representative on the International Membership Committee, for the coming biennium – another new challenge.
I welcome new board members and thank those who are staying on to share their expertise. I welcome our new club members. I look forward to another great year working with you all.
Petra Ladwig