Member update | #19 2019

AAA Member Update #19

The AAA fortnightly update is our way of communicating with all AAA members.

ATTN: Financial message from AAA President

The Financial report presented at the AGM by the outgoing Board in September reported a loss for the 2018-19 financial year of $32,645. After a review by the current Board, it has been found that there is a significant shortfall in the 2019-20 budget with a projected deficit.

This budget shortfall is spread over a small number of budget lines.

Unfortunately, when the financial results from the National Show held in August were calculated, it resulted in financial loss for the company of over $75,000.

AAA President, Andrew Munn

This national show deficit is the result of two key factors – an overspend in some areas of show expenditure and a significant shortfall in sponsorship support for the show.

Disappointingly, the real loss amounts to over $100,000 as the show had budgeted for a profit of $25,000.

This additional budgetary challenge was not expected. The Board is focused on continuing to provide member services, whilst maintaining tight control over expenditure. The Board has discussed ways to prudently manage the expenditure of the company going forward and has identified several approaches to improve the AAA’s financial position:

The Board’s communication strategy, including the successful regular regional Presidents’ teleconferences, has resulted in better engagement with regional Presidents and therefore members. On account of this improved relationship and regular communication channel, the Board has decided to postpone the Council meeting scheduled for February to later in 2020 following the 2020 Regional ARMs.
Significant investment into training and professional development for judges has been held over the last two years, including the appointment of six new apprentice judges who will start their programs for the 2020 show season. Further judge training will not be carried out this financial year.
The budgetary shortfall of the 2019 show has led to a decision to streamline the 2020 National show to focus on the core business of a halter and fleece show. The Board will be meeting next week to specifically discuss the 2020 National Show. This will include financial viability, venue and dates. This decision will be communicated to members by the end of next week. The Board is seeking a convenor for the show.
As no expressions of interest were received from members for the vacant Board position, the Board will operate with one less Board Director resulting in a small cost saving.

In positive news, an Export Market Development Grant for 2018-19 grant year has been approved by Austrade and the AAA received $30,091 to reimburse expenditure on past Chinese trade shows.

The AAA maintains financial reserves and assets however it is not seen as necessary to draw down on these but rather to make pragmatic decisions on behalf of all AAA members. The Board is also investigating alternative opportunities for diversifying and increasing the Association’s revenue sources. The Board remains focused on providing service to all members.

Market Access Update

Few would dispute the multiplier effect and benefits of increasing market access and trade opportunities for our industry. It is a priority in the AAA Strategic Plan.

With this in mind the Board is calling for Expressions of Interest for members to join a Market Access and Trade Committee. The Committee will work with the AAA Board and Office to develop customer driven markets at both a domestic and international level. Read more.

Thank you to Lyn Dickson

After more than 25 years as an accredited AAA judge, Lyn Dickson has decided to hang up her judge's badge. Lyn, a AAA life member, has judged almost every show in Australia and has also judged overseas shows including the NZ and BAS Nationals.

In good news for members, Lyn will continue to sit on the SJC and has responsibility for judge allocations. She will also be available to mentor judges.

Thank you Lyn from a very appreciative industry that has gained so much from your years of judging.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a judge, trainer and mentor to others and the opportunities it has afforded me" said Lyn.

eAlpaca turns 2!

eAlpaca is our bespoke database to meet every need of our industry now and into the future. The system is easy to use, fast and convenient, allowing you, the member, to conduct almost all transactions and updates yourself – whenever, wherever and on whatever device you prefer. eAlpaca will save you time and should also save you money.

What's in the AAA shop?

The AAA website has a shop where we sell merchandise and alpaca resources. Our featured item this week is the Definitive Guide to Alpaca Fibre by Cameron Holt.

We have some very special copies signed by the author - a great Christmas gift for an alpaca fibre lover!

Get to know your Board - Rochelle Veitch

Rochelle has owned alpacas for 22 years and been a full time alpaca farmer since 2007. Together with partner Ron, they run two herds.

Rochelle is committed to ensuring the continued growth of a vibrant AAA and believes a balanced team at the helm of a harmonious association will guarantee a viable future.

Rochelle has a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honours, specialising in animal behaviour, reproduction and genetics. Rochelle is also a trained embryo transfer technician.

Follow us!

Please make sure you're following us on our social media channels - Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

If you have photos from the past or news that you would like to celebrate on the AAA main page, please send it through to info@alpaca.asn.au.

Contact the AAA Board

Andrew Munn
E: president@alpaca.asn.au
Ph: 0408 410 281
Prue Walduck
E: prue@alpaca.asn.au
Ph: 0429 437 781
Trevor Parry
E: trevor@alpaca.asn.au
Ph: 0428 196 946

Rochelle Veitch
E: rochelle@alpaca.asn.au
Ph: 0422 329 174
Sarah Wheeler
E: sarah@alpaca.asn.au
Ph: 0434 982 760
Michelle Simberg
E: michelle@alpaca.asn.au
Ph: 0408 371 957

Upcoming events

23 December - 3 January - AAA Office closed