President’s Report – April / May 2023
Our March meeting was another good one. Surprise visitors were Rod and Maggie Chivas from TSOA NSW. Rod is a keen supporter of the Australian Motor Heritage Foundation (motorheritage.org.au) and spoke to us briefly on its objectives. If you’ve not heard of the Foundation, as I hadn’t, check out its website and, in particular, read the details of its origin. A very impressive and professional beginning (from 2016) and although centred in NSW it aims to provide a basis of historical record for all Australia.
Rod was also around in the early 1980’s when the first National TSOA Meetings were inaugurated. He was quick to acknowledge TSOA SA initiating the first 7 day National in 1981. Auctioning the last remaining bottle of TSOA SA 1981 Port (how sweet it might be!) raised $100 for Club funds.
What a day at the Bend for Laps and Lunch (Wednesday 29 March)! TSOA SA and the TR Register were there in force (12 cars) and had a ball. Even behind the pace car some of the tight and blind corners on the 7.8km circuit were heart pumpers for both Julie and me. $40 per person was unbelievable value for the 2 laps and a Michelin Star restaurant lunch. I’d do it again in a heartbeat! So, when the next event is organised make sure you’re there.
Our recent Committee meeting considered the forecast financial results for this year and next year. I am pleased to advise that the approved 2023/24 budget provides for no increase in subscriptions. Although a growing deficit is expected given no increase in subscriptions, the Committee considers the forecast deficit manageable. Maintaining subs at their current levels will benefit all members, given increases in other costs elsewhere.
Looking forward to next year, there will be some significant retirees from Committee and club representative positions. I will be stepping down as President and the Social Secretary (Bill and Margie Berlemon) and Regalia (Sue Smithson) positions will become vacant. Elections occur in August, and I am asking all members to consider nominating. The positions are important but not too onerous. Speak to the incumbents between now and then and decide to contribute.
I’m writing this report from Perth and have been able to catch up with a few other car enthusiasts, including TSOA WA members (see above). The beautiful Stag in the middle belongs to Ron and Leigh Marian. Planning for the 2024 Nationals in Albany is well advanced and promises to be another great event.
With the mid-week run and Weekender coming up in May there is quite a lot to look forward to. Check out the Social Report later in this edition.
To all members and your families, stay safe and I look forward to seeing you in May.
Kind regards,
Peter Davidge (President)