Little Ship Club 2015-2016 Annual Report

Commodore’s report

The 2015–2016 year has been one of continuing challenges and the ongoing implementation of change commenced in 2014. Sporting activities continue to thrive with the Fishing Section and Game Fishing Section functioning well. The former’s season was sub-par due to some untimely and inclement weather weekends, but spirits within the angling ‘die-hards’ remain high and the preservation of thoughts of ‘tight lines’ in the future prevails. Membership has declined somewhat, due to a changing demographic, with resignations from members in the 60 to 80+ age group – traditionally a large proportion of our Club’s fraternity. During the 2016-17 membership renewal drive the major reason given for ceasing involvement was the sale of their vessel and/or health/mobility issues. Our Club building is showing signs of age, as is much of our equipment, and considerable energies have been devoted to repairs and maintaince. A breakdown of activities appears on page AR.7 of this report. Considerable work, which continues to be undertaken behind the scenes, has resulted in an extremely active Facebook and much-visited web page with the profile of our Club continuing to be lifted across the Bay and throughout the island and mainland communities. Our high quality web presentation has done much to attract enquiries for weddings, functions, birthdays and corporate activities. Club financials failed to reflect the resurgence in attendance however, but of so many factors affecting the operations, one area stands out: WEATHER. Where we have had the beautiful one day, perfect the next scenario, trading has flourished but the frequent, and increasingly blustery, passing frontal systems have played ‘merry hell’ with many plans – not least the storm event of 3rd October.

Managers Julie and Craig Hackett have worked tirelessly to reinvigorate the Club’s hospitality face and have upgraded the dining experience and entertainment activity to growing popular acclaim. Our partnerships with the island communities have been rejuvenated and continue to be further consolidated. Board members donated their time unreservedly to ensure that the Club was compliant with all legislative requirements and every effort was made to sustain a marginal profit for the trading year. Costing and pricing structures were reviewed but still more needs to be done in this area and it is not unreasonable to expect price rises in both the beverage and bistro areas. While such action may be unpalatable to some the fact remains that there is a cost to provide service and maintain a large facility – the responsibility also rests with Members, and the old adage of ‘use it or lose it’ applies. With the forward planning now being developed I am of the view that the Club will prosper during the next trading period. A major hindrance to financial planning for the Club has been the Constitution and in its present for it restricts the Board, in some areas, to move forward. A review is required to align the document with current administrative and legislative protocols. The Finan- cial report is included for Member review. I have enjoyed this term in office and am appreciative of the new friends one has made. The role of Commodore is not for the faint-hearted and carries with it substantial responsibilities, some of which I was completely unaware and I have no doubt that those before me also experienced similar aspects while in office. Thank you all for your support and friendship. Roger McDowall Commodore

Little Ship Club (Queensland Squadron)

Annual Report 2015–2016

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