Presidents Blog November 2013

Last month I mentioned we were planning a trip to climb Mt Taranaki, so now it’s a pleasure to report that 8 members achieved our aim to summit. This was the first time for 5 of our group so a great occasion on a perfect day. Our son Phil came up with us as local knowledge which was much appreciated by us all. Sadly a week later two died on that mountain. Phil was called in to help with that rescue and lead the 4^th attempt to get to the stranded pair- a sad event he will remember for some time. It’s a reminder we must have respect for our outdoors. We must be prepared, prepared to turn back without achieving our goal, prepared to care for ourselves if things go wrong, and not rely on a helicopter arriving within 30 minutes of us using our PLB.

The General committee has called a Special General Meeting for 4^th December to propose making changes to our club. Please read the SGM booklet to learn more about what we propose, come along to the information evening, then the SGM. I encourage you to attend these meetings and participate in the discussion. The committee believes this is a positive step for the club.

Congratulations to Sarah Nelson for taking on Team Leader for Waikato Hut, and a big thanks to Graeme King for leading the Hut committee over the last years.

I also congratulate Sarah for her new book just released called “How to Age Well”. It’s available on Amazon.com and our copies have recently arrived- very good reading.

Our Annual Christmas Dinner is on Saturday 30^th November and also a home warming for Club VP Stephen. Come along and meet your fellow club members socially. Tramper of the year will be presented on the night.

There are still opportunities to get out with the club this year, so have a look at our trip programme and join in. Take a look at trips for next year - some great ones coming up!                                               Regards, John Davies, Team Leader