02 Last year, then Chairman, Ms Margot Foster AM opened her report with the words “Nothing stands still and change is a constant”. I present to you my first report as the new Chairman of Vicsport, with the assistance of a new Deputy Chairman, Andrew Walton and a new CEO Lisa Hasker. Indeed, Margot’s words remain as true today as they have ever been. The changes in our industry are not isolated to Vicsport. Our challenges have become greater as we see more public discussion around mental and physical health, women in sport, violence and crime amongst our youth, unemployment and the inadequacy of our resources and facilities to meet the growing needs of our participants, sporting bodies, clubs and communities. Vicsport’s charter has not changed, however, it has never been more important to fulfil that charter. We continue to support our members and promote sport and a healthy lifestyle. We do this through advocacy, programs and services, as well as through our partnership with SRV and VicHealth. Like most organisations however, the continued struggle for access to resources, managing economics and obtaining appropriate funding for our activities and programs on behalf of our members, delivering value back to all stakeholders and advocacy through delivering messages that resonate remains a challenge for our organisation. The new executive and leadership of Vicsport is passionate about looking at everything we do, how we do it and who we do it for. We are reviewing our Strategic Plan, our values and programs. We are engaging in deeper and wider conversations with those in and around our circle and we continue to explore means for continuous improvement. We are passionate about using this time to look for ways that we can deliver even greater value and outcomes for our industry and members in the most effective and efficient manner. We also welcome opportunities to engage with our members informally as well and receive feedback on your issues and how we can continue to be of support. We are fortunate to have such partnerships with VicHealth and SRV and we thank them both for their support and commitment to Vicsport. We are also very fortunate to have the support of the Minister, the Hon. John Eren and his team. With his on-going support we know that we need to reach more of the Members of Parliament and in particular the other Ministers alerting them to issues facing our industry in general, to understand what it means to participate in sport and benefit from a healthy lifestyle. Investment in sport benefits every ministerial portfolio in some shape or form. I would like to take this opportunity to also acknowledge the contribution of our outgoing Chairman, Margot Foster AM. On behalf of not only the Board but the entire Victorian sports industry, I extend my sincere gratitude to Margot for her commitment and passion over many years. Margot has made an enormous contribution to Vicsport and has been very generous in her time and energy in getting Vicsport to where it is today. I know from the many messages of thanks that Margot received when she stepped down as Chairman, that her contribution was appreciated. Margot continues to serve Vicsport after being elected as Director at the last AGM. As well as Margot, I would also like to extend my gratitude to my new Deputy Chairman Andrew Walton and my fellow Board Members Richard Amon, Stephanie Beltrame, Stuart Craig, Tim Large (ex-Officio), Derek O’Leary and Susan Smith, both elected at the 2017 AGM, and finally our newest member Catherine Harding. Vicsport is very fortunate to have a Board of this calibre and experience. I appreciate their support and contribution. A special mention to Lisa Hasker who was appointed as our CEO in May 2018. Lisa has already had a positive impact and given her experience, network and passion, we look forward to all that she hopes to achieve in the role for Vicsport. To Lisa and the Vicsport team, I also extend my gratitude and I look forward to working with you all. Thank you also to Michael Sholly who stepped in as interim CEO. Finally, a very big thank you to our Members, SSAs, RSAs, LGAs, Preferred Suppliers and Partners, for your ongoing support and contributions. Your enthusiasm and passion are what drives and motivates us. It is for you that we are here. We all have a significant road ahead of us that I am confident we can navigate successfully together. CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Ron Gauci / Chairman VICSPORT