President’s Report – August 2023

Dear friends,

I hope this message finds you well.

It's time for an exciting update on the progress we've made since the first quarter of 2023. Our special club has been moving forward with a clear direction, and I'm pleased to share the latest developments.

I'm happy to announce that our water drainage upgrade project has been successfully completed. The improved drainage system is now fully operational and functioning efficiently. This enhancement not only contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of our grounds but also ensures better water management, reducing the risk of flooding and promoting environmental sustainability.

Our efforts have shifted towards the water treatment upgrades, which are now underway.

Thanks to the grant we received, we have initiated significant improvements to our water treatment facilities. The goal is to enhance the quality of water that is processed on our premises, benefitting both our members and the surrounding ecosystem.

I'm optimistic about the progress we're making, and I'd like to anticipate that the water treatment upgrades will be completed within the next four months. This timeline aligns with our initial estimates, and our dedicated team is working diligently to ensure its timely execution.

As we move forward, it's essential to keep our long-term objectives in mind. The enhancements to our water drainage and treatment systems demonstrate our commitment to maintaining an environmentally responsible and sustainable club. These improvements not only elevate the member experience but also underscore our dedication to being good stewards of the land we occupy.

Our club has not fully recovered from the flood and works are carried out on a weekly basis, the costs are high as we are repairing and replacing components still for machines etc, the work load has been daunting and I expect us to be finished with repairs / replacements by December 2023.

The club has engaged JCA land consultants; a survey of the club has been completed and we are in talks pertaining to repairing/ re-instating our existing levee of which is our top priority.

We are doing everything within our power to push this thru and make it happen keeping in mind there are no guarantees. To date the club has spent approx $25,000 as many consultants are required for the works to proceed

The committee decided to introduce a full day of practice for Down The Line (DTL), Skeet, Trench, or Universal Trench (UT) shooting on the first Saturday of every month. This decision aims to provide members with a dedicated day to practice multiple shooting disciplines.

1. Income and Member Feedback: Over the past five months, the club's income hasn't been negatively affected by this change. Additionally, member feedback has been positive, with members appreciating the opportunity to have an entire day for practice. This suggests that the initiative has been well-received.

2. DTL Competition Consideration: Some members have expressed a preference for having DTL competitions on the first Saturday of the month. This is an important consideration and shows that the club is responsive to member preferences.

3. Data Analysis and Decision-Making: The club plans to conduct a thorough analysis of six months' worth of data to make informed decisions about the scheduling and operations. This analytical approach ensures that decisions are based on concrete data rather than assumptions.

4. Member Involvement and Assistance: Your club acknowledges the importance of member involvement and assistance. While many members are already helping out, there's a call for more members to step up and contribute. This involvement is crucial for the club's sustainability and success.

5. Potential Impact on Membership and Costs: If the situation regarding member involvement doesn't change, there's a potential risk of increased membership fees and shooting costs. This underlines the importance of active participation and support from the membership base.

6. Membership Growth: Your club has experienced a significant milestone by surpassing 600 memberships, which is a record. This indicates a growing interest in shooting activities and highlights the need to ensure that the club's operations and offerings can accommodate this increasing demand.

1. Appointment of a Ground Manager: The Ground Manager will be responsible for overseeing the activities on competition days. Their role is to ensure that everything is organized, tasks are delegated, and the event flows smoothly.

2. Committee Member Focus: By having a dedicated Ground Manager, committee members can concentrate on their respective tasks behind the scenes, which will likely lead to improved event coordination and execution.

3. Improved Experience: With a dedicated team member overseeing operations, the competition days are likely to become more enjoyable for both participants and volunteers. Shooters and Committee can focus on their shooting,

4. Marshall Office: The new Marshall office, constructed with the help of Dallas, is likely intended to serve as a central hub for coordination and communication during the event. This should help keep everything organized and facilitate efficient decision-making.

5. Scoreboard and Running Shoot Days: The introduction of new faces at the scoreboard and in charge of running shoot days suggests a more systematic and efficient approach to managing scores and the overall event. This can help eliminate the need for manually handling sheets and paperwork throughout the club rooms.

6. Efficiency and Expansion: With the improvements mentioned, the club is positioning itself as a more efficient and enjoyable place for shooters. This could also potentially attract more participants due to the enhanced experience.

7. Communication and Coordination: Effective communication and coordination among the newly appointed roles will be crucial to the success of these changes.

8. Member Engagement: Members are likely to appreciate the efforts to enhance the shooting experience and create a more organized environment. It might also encourage more members to get involved in the club's activities.

This Managers role requires an experienced person that would like to contribute to the club and work with our dynamic committee; hours will be 10am-4pm on Competition days ideally 2 people so to interchange weekends would be ideal, interested individuals please inform myself and we can sit down and discuss benefits etc. (This position will not be a volunteer role)

As we approach the warmer months I anticipate the club to be very busy with exciting shoots planned for our members to name a few:

Skeet 2 day Carnival

Schutzen Fest

Champion of Champions combined with SEZ shoot a two day event not to be missed

Olympic Trench and Universal Trench events

In the coming months, we will continue to explore opportunities for further improvements. Our club's leadership is actively seeking ways to enhance member services, promote community engagement, and foster a stronger connection with our shared environment.

I encourage you all to stay engaged and informed about these developments. Your feedback and support are invaluable as we shape the future of our special club.

Feel free to reach out with any questions, suggestions, or ideas you may have.

If you have a concern or issue don’t waffle on in the carpark but make a time and I am always happy to sit and discuss what it may be.

As always enjoy your shooting and take care.

Ben Reed