The North Steyne SLSC Annual General Meeting was held on 14 July 2024. Thank you to all members and guests who attended.
Chris Gibbs Stewart, President and Chair of the AGM, noted that not many surf clubs, nor sporting or community organisations, can make the claim of such longevity as 117 years, and everyone should be all very proud of another successful season at North Steyne.
She noted that once again there were no lives lost whilst on patrol for the 117th year in a row, and our proud tradition of lifesaving on North Steyne Beach continues. Along with our patrolling duties, we held many social activities, our Youth members had a trip away to Warrnambool SLSC, and the NSW State Championships were a success once again.
She noted that the building project has never been more advanced, and Board is working to start breaking ground within the next 3-4 years. To help accelerate this, the Board has agreed to spend some money to undertake preliminary work related to obtaining a DA.
She also highlight the success of the Ripper Nippers and how lucky North Steyne is to have such a wonderful group of members and their families as part of our Club.
She also thanked key sponsors, Patrons, supporters, Sydney Northern Beaches Branch, the Council Lifeguards, members, and the Board of Directors for their support, time and hard work.
Shannon Job, Treasurer, spoke to the good financial results and better than expected positive bottom line achieved for the season. He noted the better than budgeted revenue contributed from the bar and BBQ and said that all Directors managed their portfolio expenditure very prudently which created a surplus for the year. He also noted that a number of projects are planned for 2024-2025 which will result in increased capital expenditure as we work to improve things at the Club.
Congratulations to David Guthrie for receiving an Outstanding Service award. From being the Junior Activities Director to current Club Captain, his contribution has been truly outstanding! Dave also acknowledged and thanked retiring Patrol Captains Danny Gompes, Emma Hillier and James Townsend for their service over many years.
A new tradition was started at the AGM with numbered North Steyne caps being given to Australian Champions. Shannon Job received Cap #98 from Life Member and Assistant Surf Sports Director, Deb Foote. Shannon, in turn, presented Caroline Yarnell with Cap #99. It will be Carolineโs turn next to present a cap to our next Australian Champion.
Four of our members received the National Medal which is award by the Governor General of Australia for volunteer service. Those members who received the National Medal were Alex Salier, Mark Maddox, Richard Donaldson and Deb Foote.
The Board was also confirmed, as well as the Committees and Panels.
The Patrons were thanked for their support including James Griffin MP, Zali Stegall MP OAM, Sydney Northern Beaches Major Sue Heins and Balgowlah RSL Director Des McAteer. We also welcomed as new Patrons Graeme Stone, President of the Balgowlah RSL and Greg Bennett, long time support of North Steyne and local legend through Bennett Surfboards.
The 2023-2024 Annual Report, including the audited financial statements, can be found here or stop by the Club to pick up a printed copy.
