My first Report to members as President of Panania Diggers is tinged with sadness as we again acknowledge the passing of Len Eickenloff on the 15th August 2008 at the age of 83. Len proudly served this Club as President for 35 years until ill health forced him to decline to stand for office at the 2008 Annual General Meeting. Always remembered as an outstanding leader, fine community citizen and loyal friend, Len and his wife Fay have contributed immeasurably to the success of our Club.

After consultation with our four neighbouring high schools, the Board has established $1,000 educational scholarships at each school to be presented annually in recognition of Len’s contribution to our community.
 

In preparation for this Report I again read the 2008 President’s Report and noted the cautious optimism that the tough times following the increased gaming tax and smoking bans may be over. As all members are aware, greater uncertainty soon followed as the world economy and financial systems began unravelling in early 2008. Unfortunately many clubs in NSW have failed to cope with these additional burdens including over 40 having closed or seeking amalgamation in that year.
As such it is pleasing to report that your club is now well positioned to ride out these daunting challenges following the implementation of a number of strategic initiatives developed in late 2007. Some of these decisions were distressing and difficult but necessary to ensure your club will survive and prosper.

In mid 2008 we closed our bowling greens and a number of intra clubs. The former greens area is now occupied by an extension to ‘The Green’ however we have deferred refurbishment of the Sports Pavilion area pending further analysis on alternative uses.

After seeking member’s permission, the Deepwater Motorboat Club property was sold for $2,080,000 (plus GST) in January 2009 with settlement due in March 2009. In addition, the Club negotiated a long term lease over portions of the site plus a very attractive support package for our boaties to ensure the continuation of motorboat racing at Deepwater.
The funds derived from the sale will be utilised in extinguishing debt and improvements to the Panania clubhouse with the balance placed in interest bearing bank deposits. The Board is considering a number of proposals to reinvigorate the Panania premises and will advise members of their plans in the near future. ‘The Green’ continues to draw praise as a wonderful innovation for all the family and will feature highly in our refurbishment plans.

Throughout the year your Board continued to monitor all cost centres to identify operational savings, a process of review ensuring we continue to provide the best possible facilities and services in a responsible and financially prudent manner.
As such, it is pleasing to report membership expansion of 8% to over 9,000 members, an astonishing figure for a small suburban RSL club. All income sectors experienced growth during the period apart from the well publicized issues with gaming income.

Many members would be aware 2009 marks the 50th anniversary of the granting of the Club’s liquor licence in 1959. Further information on celebrating this milestone later in the year will be forwarded to members shortly.
In closing I wish to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of my fellow Directors during a most difficult year, the excellent work of our staff led by CEO Guy Hallgath and the unwavering support of the many sporting and social groups who call Panania Diggers their home.

Garry Murray
President
Panania Diggers