Dear Members,
Welcome to the first edition of 'Committee Wrap-Up' which is a new initiative to try and provide members with transparency of what is being discussed and the decisions that are made around the committee table.
Fees & Charges
The committee has decided on a modest 5-10% increase in registration fees for most age groups for the upcoming season. The rationale for the increase in fees is due to the rise in club expenses and to cover an increase in costs such as curating and maintenance.
As you are aware, the practice facility upgrades are near completion which will see us have access to 3 x hard-wicket nets and 3 x turf nets. The expansion will enable us to facilitate greater usage and access. Whilst there is a modest fee increase, the U14 and U16 age groups will receive greater access to the turf facilities which will enhance player development and provide a greater experience for this cohort of members. This additional use and the expansion of the practice facilities will require additional maintenance which comes at an expense and that forms some of the rationale for the fee increase.
At this point in time there will be no changes to merchandise prices as well as bar and Canteen prices.
Sponsorship
The club is delighted to have several sponsors commit to partnering with us for the 2024/25 season. The committee is placing a strong focus on player sponsorships this year and encouraging all members to seek a player sponsor (valued at $500) for the 2024/25 season. Not only does a player sponsorship cover the member's fees, it provides additional revenue to the club as well as give us the ability to develop a new relationship with a business that could potentially be a long term partner. The club is currently in partnership negotiations with a few businesses which will hopefully come to fruition.
Finance Update
Over the last few years the club has made some considerable expenses which includes the purchase of a new roller, 60th Anniversary Gala just to name a few. This year the club is seeking financial sustainability on the back of significant spending. There are opportunities for greater fundraising activity in our junior cohort which can be done through events, chocolate box drive and other similar initiatives. The committee is currently seeking junior parents who may be interested in assisting in these initiatives. The committee has decided that money raised through junior fundraising will go back into the Junior Presentation Day which we are keen to make a better experience for all.
Cricket Director Update
Cricket Director, Shane Martin, updated the committee on player recruitment for our A Grade which sees the club welcome tall fast bowler Cam Laird to our group.
Most importantly, retention was a key outcome of Shane's report. The club has successfully retained all of the A Grade squad from last season which sees us continue to build on a strong foundation that the club has laid.
Shane was delighted to report that our juniors should see a minimum of 90% retention which is well above our already ambitious target of 80%. Shane also took the opportunity to thank outgoing coaches in Marc Cossens, Mitch Reynolds, Scott Badcock and Bella Decrea and acknowledged their contribution to our club. With outgoing coaches comes vacancies. We are seeking 2 x U10s, 1 x U16 and 1 x U12 Girls coach for the 2024/25 season. All interest to be sent to Shane Martin.
General Business
President, Tyson Roling, informed the committee of the transition to the PLAI Sport platform and the expected outcomes associated with the move to this platform. There are significant engagement opportunities from a committee to member aspect as well as an effective communication platform for coaches to communicate directly with parents regarding trainings and matches where availability and any changes can be easily communicated.
Thank you for taking the time to read our Committee Wrap-Up for June. If any of the information triggered any queries or interest in understanding more about the committee, feel free to contact Tyson Roling.
Regards
Tyson Roling
President
