From the Chairperson

Tena tātou katoa.

This year provided opportunities to evaluate new ideas, consolidate well-developed strategies, and continue to grapple with the regional challenges that Sport Bay of Plenty involves itself in to benefit the health and wellbeing of our community.

Bay of Plenty benefits from magnificent natural facilities as well as an excellent range of sports facilities, fields and amenities which provide ample opportunity for all types of recreation in this region. These provide the perfect backdrop to encourage More People to be More Active, More Often.

We have continued to monitor the Vision 2030 and the 2017-2021 Strategic Plan established last year. The plaudits that Sport Bay of Plenty regularly receives from key funding bodies and beneficiaries of our work, provides ample reinforcement that we are continuing to get it right, and demonstrates the value of sport and recreation in our community. The ongoing work with the Spaces and Places Strategy and the completion of an office refresh project has also benefitted the work environment and communication amongst our staff.

The change in government along with a renewed focus on engaging women and girls and low participation is welcomed. We know that strong outcomes in these areas are important to the mental health of our community. Active participation across the community can effect significant improvements, which Sport Bay of Plenty is proud to champion.

Financially, we continue to be in a strong position. A modest surplus compared to a budgeted deficit reflects the ongoing prudent management of funds by the senior management team, whilst continuing to retain a nominal level of reserves to ensure financial stability is maintained.

I would like to acknowledge the contribution of all our partners including Sport New Zealand, the Local and Regional Authorities, BayTrust, TECT, RECT, the District Health Boards and Primary Health Organisations in the Bay of Plenty regions, along with the many schools and sports clubs we work with. These contributions are vital, and indicate a large portion of our business community that recognise the value of sport in the general community. They may be a combination of financial support, in kind services, and/or advice on how we can provide the best impact, and are all appreciated.

It is also critical to acknowledge the many volunteers that continue to serve sport in the region. Their tireless efforts often reflect the needs of the athletes that participate, who would struggle without their support and dedication.

The Board has had an enjoyable year for 2017/18. We welcomed Tom Elvin and Brian Pointon early in the year and all board members have continued to provide invaluable input and guidance into the direction of the organisation, and their dedication to the success of the organisation is greatly appreciated.

Finally, we continue to be fortunate to have a great team of staff that engage with the community daily, exceptionally well-led by our Chief Executive Heidi Lichtwark. We appreciate the passion they bring to their roles and the positive impact they have on the Bay of Plenty community.

Ngā mihi maioha kia tātou katoa!

Paul Wollaston – Chairman

Click here to visit the Sport Bay of Plenty website

Paul Wollaston - Sports Awards

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