Our Club forum was held this week and members engaged in lively discussion. It was especially valuable hearing from new members.
1 Radar Awards
Brent Gerrard reported that these awards are for people who perform an excellent service but do not usually receive recognition elsewhere. For example, a previous winner was a person who packs vegetables at New World. More such people should be recognised for their contributions. More committee members are needed for the administration of these awards. Club members were invited to put their names on the sheet provided if they are interested in joining the committee.
2 Change of Payments
The position of treasurer of the club was recognised as onerous Nick Duncan described the new method of paying for meetings that will make the role of the treasurer less onerous. Paying through Club Runner as part of the registration process is being introduced. Payment would be secure, through provider Stripe. A small extra expense would be involved. The new system is planned to begin on July 1.
3 Breakfasts and Duties
The prices for the breakfasts have remained unchanged at $27.50 since 2023 but the Wellington Club are now asking for $28.50. In view of the extra expense involved in using Club Runner to pay online for the breakfasts, it has been decided to increase the charge to $30. There will be limited catering for special needs.
Some new duties have been introduced. Some duties require people to arrive at least ten minutes early. The person thanking the speaker should invite him or her to stay for coffee or tea afterwards and generally make them feel welcome. The person setting up the equipment should check that the computer is working. Remind yourselves what your duties are—the expectations are listed with each invitation to a meeting. If any duties bring you out of your comfort zone, note that information down on the sheet provided at this meeting.
4 Annual Plan
Group discussion took place on the annual plan. The consensus was that it provided useful information about what is going on in the club. One suggestion was that we should better manage our profile in the community, including the web site. Interact was not mentioned. Should anything be removed?
5 New Members
Four new members gave their impressions of the club so far. They remarked that they were made to feel very welcome. Nicole was thanked for meeting each of them individually. The excellent quality of the speakers was also mentioned.