PRESIDENT’S REPORT

It is a treat to be cobbling this together, literally waterside on the Ramblers Lake Macquarie trip, me bashing the keyboard while Peter Aubourg and Penny Howes explain to cyclists tomorrow’s ride plan. The sun is setting. The wind has blown itself out. A great time to be away. We have one new member on this trip and another on Phil Prentice’s Grand Clifftop walk trip in 2 weeks time.

The weather has allowed more activities to go ahead and this seemingly is producing more, and more interesting, events in our programme. Since last writing, Peter Jack has also been re-elected Treasurer of Bushwalking NSW, as well as keeping our books in good order. The cycling leaders have achieved stardom within the Bicycle NSW community with now 8 having achieved Ride Leader status and 3 more imminent.

The committee has been assessing the interest within the club to engage in matters related to advocacy. Sam Garrett-Jones, Phil Prentice and myself  recently had an informal meeting with Shellharbour Councillor John Davey on Lake Illawarra matters, such as furthering the completion of a pathway around the lake, signage and the Slaters Creek Bridge plus the Skiway Park launching facilities, an ongoing subject of discussion among our paddlers. Sam also took the reigns when the NSW Legislative Council recently launched an inquiry into e-mobility, especially e-scooters and e-bikes. With the dynamics rapidly changing on shared path tracks as e-vehicles become more prominent, new government legislation may well affect our walking and cycling. Should our committee structure be modified so our voice may be more often heard?

What seems to be evolving is interaction with like-minded clubs in both cycling and walking. This can stem from members being associated with multiple clubs and producing joint activities. Alas, a wider variety of activities can result. Greg Smith’s co-leads with Shoalhaven Bushwalkers is a great example.

Remembering Sue Martin has become another aspect of the 5k walk on September 11.  Nyrang Park was her home turf. Members, current and past, are welcome to join us.

Spring into spring. The programme is healthy, including 2 trips.

 

John