Message from the Equestrian WA Board

17 June 2020

Re: Equestrian Australia Voluntary Administration Proxy

Previous correspondence

The EWA Board and CEO held a meeting with the sports committees yesterday evening, during which EWA Chair, Ron Fleming explained in detail what has gone on so far in this Voluntary Administration process for EA.

The sports committees and the general members are looking for leadership as to how Ron Fleming would vote at this Friday’s meeting on behalf of EWA and any proxies he will represent. We wanted to communicate this to all members asap.

EWA is asking that you vest your GENERAL PROXY specifically to Ron Fleming, Chair of EWA. The “Appointment of Proxy” form can be downloaded here, and proxies can be lodged by any member regardless of age. 

On Friday 19th June 2020, there will be a meeting held by the Administrators where two motions will be decided.

1. The establishment of a Committee of Inspection.
2. Whether the current administrators should be replaced.

We can let you know that on the advice of the EWA board, Ron Fleming will be voting to reject both motions. The board is of the opinion that the administrator should not be changed while we believe the current administrators are fair-minded and independent and will operate in the best interests of the members and the sport as a whole. Not to mention it would add considerable cost to the process and for no reason.

WA as an equestrian sporting state is smaller in numbers and greatly isolated from the rest of the country. We very much wish to minimise the financial impact of the process, and at this point, the EWA Board supports the Administrator’s recommendation that a Committee of Inspection is not required, however, if a COI is required, we would want representation on that for EWA members.

Please note, that any discussion on the possible governance model that will see our sport into the future, will happen and must be given appropriate time and gravitas that it deserves. It is the role of the stakeholders (all the states, Sports Australia, government agencies) to debate and decide on the best model moving forward. It is not the role of the COI to make those recommendations and lead that discussion, as some may believe.

The EWA Board will consult widely with the sports committees and the membership on any recommendations for governance models when the time comes.

This Voluntary Administration process is an opportunity for EWA members to have their say in the structure and future of the sport in this country. The EWA Board has, with the other state branches, lobbied for a change to the structure and governance of EA for many years. We welcome this opportunity for change and are optimistic for a clean start.

Completed proxy forms must be returned to ea@kordamentha.com by TOMORROW, Thursday 18th June 2020 by 10:30 am (AEST). Please refer to the instructions or the sample form here for guidance on completing the form. For more information and resources, visit https://www.kordamentha.com/creditors/equestrian-australia-limited 

Thank you for your support in giving the Western Australian equestrian community a voice.