BIAV AGM

The 2025 BIAV AGM was conducted on Wednesday 30 April at Royal Brighton Yacht Club with a strong and enthused group of members in attendance. The AGM saw the re-election to the Board of Scott O’Hare (Boat Dealers), Michael Neumann (Marinas/Clubs), and Anthony Cooke (Chandlery/Services), the return to the Board of Alistair Murray AM (Life Members), as well as the first-time election of Edencraft’s Josie Eastman (Manufacturers/Wholesalers). They continue a stable Board period along with the two appointed Board members in Daved Lambert and Neil James. 

 In his President’s report, Scott O’Hare reflected on some of the highlights for the year, including the successful Melbourne Boat Show, further enhanced advocacy work and government relations, progress in the Boating Careers area, and excellent Board and member engagement. Scott thanked his fellow Board members for being a cohesive and engaged group and for doing a great job. Scott also thanked the CEO Steve Walker and his small team for another great year. In his CEO update, Steve returned thanks to Scott for his efforts as president, agreeing that the Board had done a great job acting in the best interests of members. He also thanked Katrina Muir and Dan Brown for being a great staffing team, and getting plenty done with limited resources. Steve recognised the efforts of the various committees, and warmly thanked all members that had engaged in BIAV matters during the year.

Neil James outlined the slightly better-than-budget financial performance for the year, the efforts to cost-cut and act carefully whilst still delivering for members, and the $67k growth in net equity. Members present unanimously endorsed and approved the financial report.

Three further constitution changes were approved, to complement the changes of the March SGM. The way was now clear for Board members who take on an executive role, such as president, to extend to a maximum of ten years on the Board. This was previously eight. Also approved was for Appointed Board members to have voting rights at AGMs/SGMs, as well as eligibility for Board executive roles.

The Board will convene in the next two weeks to elect the President and vice-president. Scott O’Hare is expected to go around for another year as President, continuing the theme of stable BIAV governance and leadership.