da news oct 2013 interactive
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Dragons Abreast October Newsletter 2013TRANSCRIPT
in the LOOPThe Dragons Abreast Australia e-newsletter - October 2013
National Paddle Day is Sunday 13th October 2013
Welcome From The ChairWelcome From The Chair
It is with a great deal of confidence that the Board and I can advise you that DAA is now almost fully operational following the departure of the CEO. This position has been achieved in no small way by the dedication and commitment shown by our very capable Darwin office person, Joanne, who has tirelessly worked with us to achieve this outcome.
I would like to take this opportunity to reinforce the message put forward at the Convention. Even though there have been some disruption for DAA recently, some things will not change. The priorities will always be: Participation, Inclusiveness and Awareness.
Our core values remain:• Promotion of a healthy and positive outlook towards life after diagnosis,• Competition is secondary to camaraderie and the provision of a supportive post treatment environment,
and• Assist in raising breast cancer awareness within the community, helping to change associated stigmas
The Vision below is still very much part of current actions and planning the future direction of DAA:
To further promote Dragons Abreast as a nationally recognised brand and a leader in the movement for people affected by breast cancer. To spread awareness, empower individuals, and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after diagnosis.
We listened to the concerns that you expressed at the Convention. As promised, we are progressively implementing changes, the first being to make the membership fee structure a more fair and equitable process where fees are based on numbers rather than a group levy. Shortly we hope to have the new Membership database fully operation which should reduce the administrative burden of the groups.
As you will probably have heard, the DAA office is to be relocated to Brisbane. This is not a decision that has been taken lightly as this Board, and previous Boards, very much appreciate the significance that Darwin has,
being home for the ‘beginnings’ of Dragons Abreast in Australia. I would like to acknowledge the incredible contribution that our founding members, with the support of the local & visiting interstate members, have made over the years to build & sustain this wonderful organisation. I also want to reassure you all that the office premises in Darwin is to be retained and will be available for lease from Jan 2014. It is a very valuable asset that will generate revenue for DAA.
The decision to move to Brisbane resulted from considerable research that took into account factors including the isolation of Darwin from the majority of our member groups, the costs of travel, freight costs, the difficulty in obtaining and retaining suitable staff etc. Brisbane is very centrally located with several member groups within relatively close proximity so a very strong support base. The move is planned to take place from mid November. It is a huge undertaking so we welcome all offers of support both at the Darwin office and the new Brisbane location.
It is proposed that the office will be manned 3 days a week by a paid office administrator, with the assistance of volunteers. Also, DAA now requires the services of a bookkeeper, experienced in MYOB and preferably a registered BAS agent. If any of our members have the skills and would like to help out, please contact me to discuss.
The October Festival is fast approaching. If your group is interested in entering, you can still do so but remember registration closes 5pm 17th October. This event is a major fundraiser for DAA so if you can support in any way, please do so even if you just drop by on the day with an offer of help.
If you have any queries or wish to discuss any issues you may have, please do not hesitate to contact the DAA team at [email protected] or alternatively you can email me direct at [email protected].
Exciting, and very busy times, ahead for Dragons Abreast,With kind regardsSue
Dragons Abreast is On the Move...!
Yes you heard it! We have signed the lease (starting 15 November) and will give details of actual location/address soon. The Darwin office will be leased out. We anticipate the move taking place in November and settling in, set up happening early December. We will keep you all posted on details of the move as they come.
We hope that you are excited with this decision! This is a positive move for Dragons Abreast!
We would like to recognise all the hard work that our members in Darwin have contributed over many years to the running of the office. Many people provided assistance with running the operations of the organisation - mostly on a volunteer basis. Your work has been vital for our organisation and we hope you will continue to support us from afar. Paddles Up to all of you!
Paddling Events for Dragons Abreast Members...Upcoming Events...
Mt WarningDragons Abreast Mt Warning invites YOU to Our Luncheon And Fashion Parade, Saturday 19 October 1PM. Tumbulgum Tavern, Riverside Dve, Tumbulgum 2490.Contact Helen 0439 464 868 or Anne 0428 446 482 or email [email protected] for tickets. Tickets sales close 14th October.
This event is a fundraiser to support members of Dragons Abreast Mt Warning to attend the International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission’s Participatory Dragon Boat Festival in Sarasota Florida October 2014DOWNLOAD INVITATION >
Bribie IslandBribie Island is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Bridge linking the island to the mainland in Oct 1963. Dragons Abreast Bribie Island Club together with Redcliffe Snapdragons and Brisbane Club members are participating in the Bribie Island Festival on the water over the weekend of 19th and 20th October. The plan is to paddle the boats under the Bridge along the foreshore to Brennan Park and the Jetty. Bribie Dragons Abreast Club will be using this event for our awareness raising promotion for National Paddling Day.
We look forward to hearing about your local event. Send your report and photos to [email protected]
Port Lincoln Port Lincoln are celebrating on 20th October and are expecting about 50 people. They are also celebrating DAA 15th birthday with cake.
Melbourne Melbourne – DAM Busters. They are holding a come and try on 13th October. Flyer attached – if you are in the area you will be more than welcome.DOWNLOAD FLYER >
Dragons Abreast Australia National FestivalDarling Harbour, Sydney. Sunday 27th October 2013
There is still time to register a team, or join another team. Contact Angie directly at [email protected]
A big thanks to those who are supporting this year - by entering in the event, volunteering, fundraising - it all goes to help our organisation and those who are diagnosed with breast cancer in the future!
We often have feedback from members about wanting Dragons Abreast paddling opportunities. A large number of our members love to be able to paddle with other breast cancer survivors and enjoy the camaraderie that goes with it. Not to mention the aspect of an excuse for a fun weekend or few days away.
National Regatta We had a terrific event in 2010 – and there is a lot of interest in holding another in 2014. This would give our members who are going to Sarasota a chance to have a ‘practice’ run before the IBCPC festival It also gives those of us who cannot go to Sarasota a chance to paddle closer to home, and at less expense. To do this we need to hear from any groups who would be keen on hosting a Dragons Abreast National Regatta in 2014. Of course there is criteria that needs to be considered such as venue, boats, accommodation and of the people on the ground to help out (our much appreciated volunteers). Is your group keen?
Hat Regatta Another option (also presented at the National Convention). This is a terrific opportunity for those in regional areas who want to host an event for their region.
We want to be able to publish a calendar of events for 2014, 2015 and 2016 so are asking all local member groups to consider this and let us know. This is also very important to give our members plenty of time to plan their own calendars.
For either of the above opportunities, you won’t be left on your own – the board will be here to advise and give you details based on previous experience to make it happen. Please send your interest to [email protected] by mid 31 October (no obligation) and one of the board will contact you for a chat.
Recent Events - Brisbane High Tea...Recent Events - Brisbane Trivia Night...
Trivia NightBrisbane has been busy fundraising for the DAA National Festival in October. They have recently held a couple of fun events starting with MissabittaTRIVIA. The theme of the night – “Swinging Sixties”. It was such a sight to see our members, family and friends get their grooviest gear on and groove the night with sixties trivia.
High TeaWhat a great way to get into Spring with the Dash of Pink High Tea. Set in the beautiful Sheraton Mirage – overlooking the tranquil pool and the beach. Plenty of food, plenty of colourful frocks made for a ‘spring’ type atmosphere. Thanks to Janelle Pritchard for organising the silent auction and raffles. The $5 and $10 surprise boxes were a treat and went like hot cakes! Well done.
DAA VacanciesRecent Events...
Paddles Up:Cindy HewittA big thank you from all members to Cindy Hewitt, our tireless volunteer who gathers and audits membership information, and prepares data for ID tags.
Thank you Cindy for the great work you do. We do appreciate it.
Positions VacantPart Time Officer Administrator – Location, Brisbane. Role - coordinate the operations of the Dragons Abreast National Office.
Book Keeper – Location, Brisbane. Approximately 10 hours per week. Must have MYOB experience. If you are interested, or you know someone who would be suitable (and interested) please contact us. For confidential conversation please contact [email protected]
Job descriptions will be provided on request. We will be advertising externally but will also consider any member of DAA who has the skills for these roles. Do you know anyone? bookkeeper will also be required on a part time basis.
Volunteers – Location, Brisbane. Role – assist the operations of the Dragons Abreast National Office as a volunteer. This would suit those outside of Brisbane such as Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Bribie etc. If you are willing to provide a day or so on a regular basis please consider a rewarding opportunity to help our National office.
Dragons Abreast would not be here today without the many volunteers who have assisted us along the way in many and various roles. Whilst we need people on the ground, we are also happy to talk to anyone outside the Brisbane region – as there are other ways a volunteer can assist.
Board member vacancies – Expressions of Interest Invited The Dragons Abreast Board has two vacancies. We would really like to see these positions filled – to make seven board members. Is there any of you out there, or do you know anyone who would be able to contribute to the Board? We would love to hear from you.
The DAA Board consists of volunteers who offer their skills and work/life experiences to shape the direction of our great organisation. We have particular interest in potential candidates with pro bono law or accounting experience however all expressions of interest will be considered.
Please contact Sue Bowenfor a confidential discussion – [email protected]
Cindy Hewitt
Do you need to contact [email protected] all request, questions, membership queries, new member enquiries etc
[email protected] all items for inclusion ‘In the Loop’
Deadline for each monthly ‘In the Loop’ is 15 of each month. Next deadline 15th November.
The last deadline for 2013 will be 15th December for our Christmas Edition of In the Loop.
DAA Meets with BCNAMany of our Dragons Abreast members attended the recent BCNA Forum in Sydney. One of our board members, Anne – was invited by the new BCNA CEO Maxine Morand, to catch up and they had the chance to talk about each of the organisations directions and aims. This was a wonderful opportunity to establish a relationship between both organisations – both of which supports those affected by breast cancer in various means. Thanks Anne – we are sure that both organisations will support each other in the future.
Maxine has reminded us that all groups are welcome as members of BCNA. Many of our member groups are already under the BCNA umbrella.
AusDBF TeleconferenceMany of you are aware of the discussion around the 2014 National Titles and the topic of seniors not being included in the state vs state. A teleconference was held on Tuesday 1 October and the following outcome was agreed:
2014 Aus Champs - There will be a return to 2013 Nationals format with no changes to be made.
It was agreed that the steering committee is to meet within the next 6 weeks (by 30th Oct if possible) to investigate ways forward for 2015 Aus Champs which they will the present to the AusDBF Board. Steering group will be headed by David Abel and involve current representatives from all States and Territories (including DAA).
Whilst DAA was represented by Jo and Marion – it is important that if any member has any specific query about the format of state vs state at nationals – then they must contact their state representative. For example – QLD would contact QDBF. For those who fit the seniors category and want to see this continue in the state vs state program beyond 2014 – it is up to you to make sure you sign up to participate and be counted.
If you would like more information and to register your group, visit the BCNA webpage http://www.bcna.org.au/sharing-support/register-your-support-group or phone 1800 500 258.
Maxine Morand BCNA CEO
Are you holding an event?
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