Report
STATE PRESIDENT’S YEAR IN REVIEW
Historically, members attending the Annual General Meeting are provided with a copy of the Annual Financial Statements and State President’s and Treasurer’s Reports with a précis of the State President’s report included with the September edition of the Bulletin.
Following a change to reporting requirements the Annual Financial Statements are now made available to members only on request. As a result those attending future Annual General Meetings will be provided with a concise version of the Financial Statements and a brief report from the President. However, a comprehensive review of the year is shown below but in future it will be each June edition of the Bulletin.
YEAR IN REVIEW
Financial Performance:
The Guild’s operating performance and financial position at fiscal year end 31 March 2011 shows a loss of $56,376 was incurred compared with a loss of $65,296 for the previous year.
Whilst income at $572,186 was up by $57,106 for the year due primarily to increased levels of donations, grants, bequests and interest income, this was offset by a reduction in subscriptions -$26,918 reflecting the net decline in membership numbers during the year. Expenses totalled $629,192 (+$34,397) as a result of higher management costs including a significant increase in the office rent.
The balance sheet position shows the Guild’s equity stands at $1,727,611 as at 31 March 2011.
Clearly the loss incurred is of concern and every effort is being made to contain expenses. To this end we have pruned a number of management costs notwithstanding increases in most operational areas of running the business. Despite the loss incurred the Guild remains committed to its members and the continuance of its work on behalf of our members. To this end State Council elected a committee specifically to consider the changing circumstances and future needs of members and to explore ways to improve and expand welfare and other services.
Detailed later in this edition is a schedule of the donations, grants and bequests received in the year ended 31 March 2011. We are incredibly grateful to all of you who support the Guild through the Little Bit Extra Fund and contributed towards the Flood Appeal which enabled the Guild to provide tangible financial support to the many members who were affected by the floods and cyclone Yasi. There is more about this later in the report.
In this my first year as your State President I have been overwhelmed by the widespread support I have received, particularly from my State Council colleagues, the sub-branch and social club executives and members generally. My sincere thanks go out to you all and the staff who have also been most helpful. I would add it has been wonderful having the opportunity of meeting so many of you during my travels to sub-branches and attendances at various events.
This has been a most important year for the Guild. Not only has a dedicated committee completed a review of the Constitution which will be put the members later this year but our Futures Committee is making good progress and we should see changes to what and how we support our members. These changes will be reported to members as they are introduced.
As referred to earlier it has also been a year of catastrophic events with floods and cyclone Yasi devastating such large areas of our state. Many of our members suffered significant damage and loss. At the time of the calamities the office staff and State Councillor Phyllis Smith and I endeavoured to contact every member in the areas affected by the floods and cyclone Yasi to learn of their circumstances and safety. This work was I know much appreciated by those contacted and reflected the compassion and concern the Guild has for its members.
Once again, our members showed enormous consideration for their fellow members with some $15,500 being raised for the 2011 flood appeal. On behalf of those members affected and the beneficiaries of the monies raised I thank everyone who donated funds for your considerable generosity and thoughtfulness. The funds raised were disbursed to our affected members in June.
Also, as part of the Guild’s continuing efforts to reach out to our members, the staff has regularly telephoned our members located in isolated and far distant areas to say hello and provide a sense of involvement as these members rarely have the opportunity of participating in events organized by the Guild or for that matter having contact with other members.
VICE REGAL PATRONAGE
Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley AC, the Governor of Queensland, continues as Patron to the Guild. We were delighted Her Excellency was able to attend our Christmas Party at Tattersall’s Club where she informally addressed our members and met with many on the day. We were also very pleased to learn and congratulated Her Excellency on her appointment as a Companion of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Honours.
The Guild participated at the Governor’s Open Day held in the grounds of Government House in June 2010 which provided an opportunity to promote the Guild to the many in attendance.
NATIONAL GUILD
National President Mrs. Audrey Blood OAM was re-elected as National President for a further two years at the National Conference held in October 2010. Mrs. Blood works tirelessly for the Guild nationally participating in many ex-service organisations’ commitments, undertakes advocacy to government on behalf of all war widows as well the attendance at many events across the country including our Annual General Meeting. Mrs. Blood has been fully supportive of our state Guild and its efforts on behalf of our war widow members.
Mrs Jan Ormerod the National Executive Officer assists the National President and coordinates the connection between the National Office and respective state Guilds. Jan very successfully organised the National Conference which took place in Sydney in October 2010 where Queensland’s delegates were Patricia Merlehan and myself. In all 15 Queensland members attended the conference.
The conference was opened by RADM Ken Doolan AO RAN (Rtd), the RSL National President and was addressed by Mr Ian Campbell PSM, the Secretary of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
The conference provided the forum for state delegates to discuss matters of mutual interest and concern and to put forward motions on issues affecting all widows with a number of important decisions taken and outcomes requiring action by the National executive. Guest speakers included a representative from Defence Community Organisation and the Deputy Commissioner of DVA NSW who spoke of the issues affecting recently bereaved war widows.
The NSW Guild organized a number of events for delegates and visitors including a cocktail function as guests of Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir AC CVO the Governor of NSW, held at Kirribilli House on the shores of Sydney Harbour, the annual Picnic for NSW members held at the wonderful memorial at Concord Kokoda Trail and the opportunity to attend the Annual NSW State Forum which enabled the Queensland members to learn at first hand the activities and services undertaken by the NSW Guild.
MEMBERSHIP
With our ageing membership we have seen a small decline in numbers which currently stand at 6200. However, during the year 314 new members joined.
As we continually mention the Guild’s membership represents approximately a third of the total war widows in Queensland and it is disappointing so many war widows choose for whatever reason not to join the Guild. These non members gladly accept the benefits the Guild has successfully negotiated for them over the years through advocacy to successive governments. Regretfully, many of these non member war widows seem to have the perception that the benefits they enjoy have been gained for them either by other ex-service organisations or by generous governments. The modest annual subscription fee of $20 hasn’t changed for many years.
The issue of attracting the many non members to the Guild is one of the many issues the Futures Committee is addressing.
SUB-BRANCHES & SOCIAL GROUPS
The executives of our sub-branches do an outstanding job as do the coordinators of the social clubs in maintaining the interests of the members with most actively engaging them in excursions and programmes that provide the opportunity to meet regularly and enjoy social interaction.
I sincerely thank those members who give so much of their time for the benefit of others in their respective sub-branch and social club. It is appreciated that the numbers of members willing to undertake these executive roles are diminishing each year thus placing an even greater onus on the executives.
Although it is yet to occur, it is also apparent some sub-branches are finding members are not prepared to undertake the executive roles and therefore are considering converting to social clubs which are run on less formal basis. These situations are being monitored and in the event a sub-branch does need to convert every assistance and support will be provided.
We were delighted our members responded so favourably to the proposal to establish a new social club at Sherwood earlier this year and this has been well supported since becoming operational with State Treasurer Judith Walters undertaking the co-ordinator’s role initially.
Many of our sub-branches and social clubs undertake a variety of social outings including bus and rail trips which are well supported. Some trips are quite adventurous such as one undertaken by 16 Brisbane West Social Club ladies who went on a cruise to Noumea, Lifou and Vanuatu, with a train trip on the Ghan planned for this year. All credit to them and co-ordinator Billie Lake for embarking on these adventures.
To all the organizers of these occasions and events including fund raising, a special thankyou for all that you do on behalf of your sub-branch and social club.
GUILD SERVICES
Community Services
The Guild actively supports and assists its members in a number of ways not least being the work done by its Community Service Officer Ann Orchard who makes home visits where possible, meeting members at the various sub-branches as well as attending to members’ needs through telephone contact. Her work is invaluable and also enables State Council to be kept abreast of the many issues confronting members which might not ordinarily be fully appreciated.
During the year Ann visited 17 sub-branches and social clubs to address over 500 members and discuss how the Guild can assist them. She also visited 140 members in their homes including many in areas surrounding our regional sub-branches to call on those unable to attend the meetings. This entailed travelling over 3000km by car. Additionally, Ann and the staff responded to 4000 phone calls on matters associated with members’ welfare. The work done by Ann is a most important element of the Guild’s welfare programme and is an area where the Guild is looking to expand its work.
Hospital Volunteers
The Guild also supports a number of dedicated volunteers who visit our members unfortunate to be hospitalised in and around the Brisbane area. Visits are also undertaken by our sub-branch and social group members in their respective areas and we are most appreciative of those compassionate ladies who undertake this important work in caring for other members.
As part of this important caring ethos, the Guild office staff send “Get Well Cards” to members hospitalised and it is the Anzac Day Commemorative Committee grant funds which are used in part to fund this programme.
Alexander Technique classes
Alexander Technique classes conducted by Ms Meredith Page at the Guild’s office provide an insight into how posture can work for you and how to promote a healthy relationship with your physical self. These classes are well patronised and our sincere thanks go to Meredith for continuing with this very beneficial programme which is also subsidised by the Anzac Day Commemorative Committee.
Grants:
The Anzac Day Trust and the Anzac Day Commemorative Committee again assisted the Guild undertake important welfare support efforts for our members with generous grants to offset many of the costs associated with these programmes. On behalf of the Guild I sincerely thank these wonderful organiwsations for the ongoing assistance they provide. We too are grateful to the Brisbane City Council for its financial assistance with our Christmas Party arrangements.
ACTIVITIES
New Members’ Morning Teas
Morning teas were held during the year to introduce new members and orientate them into the aims, objectives and activities of the Guild. These morning teas proved highly successful and provide opportunities for new members to meet others and learn more about the Guild. These occasions are primarily for new members in the Brisbane area, but I know the sub-branch and social groups also do their best to invite new members in their areas to their meetings and activities.
Picnic in the Park
The many members who attend this annual event in Brisbane’s Roma Street Parkland are thoroughly spoilt by the Guild’s staff who of their own initiative undertake all the preparation and waiting on members. The food and attention provided by the staff were first class and members were able to enjoy the lovely surrounds and opportunity of meeting other members many who had travelled from as far as the Gold and North Coast, Ipswich and Toowoomba. Our special thanks go to State Secretary Robert and his staff for the splendid work they did for us not only on this day but all occasions.
Greenslopes Private Hospital Luncheon
We are most grateful to the Greenslopes Private Hospital executive who hosted a luncheon for our members. This most popular event is very well supported and for many who attend it provides an opportunity to tour the hospital and appreciate the outstanding facilities.
Christmas Party
The Guild’s Christmas party held at the Tattersall’s Club Brisbane was again a resounding success and attended by over 200 members. We were especially pleased our Patron her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley AC the Governor of Queensland was able to attend and spend time meeting as well as informally addressing the members.
Theatre Outings
The Guild through its association with QPAC secures limited numbers of tickets for certain feature shows playing in Brisbane. These occasions are well supported by members who are able to avail themselves of concessional tickets to attend performances. In all nearly 100 members attended these outings during the year.
Bus Trips
The Guild is most appreciative of the effort State Council member Marcia Scholes goes to arrange these outings which have been thoroughly enjoyed by those who have participated. The trips and locations have been interesting and the package which includes a luncheon proving very good value. We anticipate further trips being arranged this year with increased numbers involved as more learn of the wonderful times had by our members.
Mah-Jong & Bridge
The Mah-Jong and Bridge Clubs meet in the Queensland Room at our Adelaide Street office each week and are well attended by members and friends. The coordinators of both these clubs Betty Kavanagh and Billie Duff work tirelessly to provide the opportunity for members to get together to learn these absorbing and entertaining games and enjoying the company of other war widows which we are delighted to note extends to other social activities together.
Computer Lessons
Under a Federal Government “Broadband for Seniors” programme, two staff members Jason and Sophie conduct classes for members on how to use a computer and access the internet. These classes have proven most popular and we are pleased to advise many members have either learnt how to use a computer or enhanced their basic skills. Our special thanks go to both Jason and Sophie for their efforts in assisting our members. I am pleased to add that the programme is ongoing and we encourage those interested to contact the office.
Annual Friendship Day
Tewantin/Noosa sub-branch hosted the annual Friendship Day in 2010 and what a wonderful occasion it proved to be. The table settings, room decoration, prizes and meals were just fantastic and everyone in attendance had a wonderful time. Many members spent a few days in the area visiting the various tourist sites and events and the opportunity of spending time with members from other parts of Queensland. To President Ronda and her outstanding team of assistants we thank you for hosting such a great event. By the time you receive this edition Mackay sub-branch will have hosted the 2011 Friendship Day and I am sure it too will prove a very popular and successful occasion.
The Guild’s Bulletin magazine is a very informative publication produced by Guild staff (under the direction of Kristine) and issued quarterly. It is the connection between the Guild office and our members and based on the wonderful responses received is appreciated and well read by the membership. Those members with sight impairment are able to receive their “Bulletin” on audiocassette or CD at no cost to them.
APPRECIATION
The current Board of Directors of the Queensland Vasey Housing Auxiliary Board includes five war widows and three non war widow directors, namely Messrs. Steven Blinkhorn, Andrew Roe and the Chairman, Stephen Scott. During the year Mr Bruce Milner resigned his Board position due to other commitments. His wise counsel and commitment to the Guild’s interests will be missed. The directors, particularly our non war widows Board members provide significant experience to the decision making which at all times is in the best interests of the company and indirectly the Guild’s members, especially the tenants. On your behalf I convey the Guild’s grateful thanks to each of them for their considerable input to the successful governance of the company and for giving so generously of their time.
Through The Queensland Vasey Housing Auxiliary, Guild members have access to two holiday units at Caloundra. These well appointed and located units are available at a very reasonable cost and are popular with members and the Guild is very grateful to the Auxiliary for making this benefit available.
Guild members and indeed all war widows very much rely on the advice and assistance received from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. To the Deputy Commissioner Mrs Alison Stanley and officers of the Queensland Department I thank them for the outstanding service provided to our members.
The Guild is very fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers who take an active interest in its affairs. Among these are the State executive and Council members and on behalf of all members I thank them for their conscientious approach, commitment and participation in the decision making processes that affirms the aims and objectives of the Guild.
Additionally, the Guild has a team of conscientious staff members whose efforts in the office and their understanding of and assistance provided to members’ needs are much appreciated and I thank them most sincerely.
Lastly I would like to thank each and every member. It is imperative member support is maintained and grown otherwise the Guild will not have the strength of numbers to successfully lobby governments on your behalf and achieve changes that make a positive difference to the lives and wellbeing of our members.
Helen Strange
State President
Home | History | Sub-Groups | Housing | Contacts | Calendar | Application