Administration and Finance

COVID-19 has proven to present challenges and uncertainty over the past 12 months unlike anything many of us have experienced.

When stepping into the role of Director of Administration and Finance in July 2020, Melbourne was entering into our second lockdown and little was known on what our 2020-21 summer would look like.

The finance team’s core objective for the season was to closely manage the club’s finances and minimise financial impacts as a result of COVID-19.

Due to poor predicted economic conditions, the club was unsure if we could run a nippers program, expected a significant drop off in club memberships and expected access to limited grant opportunities. As a result, financial forecasts suggested that the club finish the year in a marginally net negative position. However, as a result of government grant availability, reduction in restrictions and many members seemingly looking to the club as a place to seek a sense of normality, the club was able to retain its strong financial position by the end of the season by making a slight profit. A great outcome considering the circumstances.

The ongoing commitment of Brendan Smart to work with the SLSA Grant Seeking Unit to secure much needed funds to run our club is extraordinary. Brendan has targeted sizeable grants to undertake much needed repairs on lifesaving equipment and maintenance on the clubhouse. By obtaining funds via grants means our members can focus their energy on doing what we do best – run our club!

James Lester has continued to closely manage the club accounts and ensure our invoicing is up to date. James’ autonomy has made my transition into the position of Director of Administration and Finance to be extremely smooth. Thanks James.

Terry Aslanidis with great support from several other members has continued to keep Surf Guard up to date and processed thousands of member renewals and certifications.

After playing a central role in our club for the past two and a half years, Rochelle O has decided to step down from her role as Administration Officer. Rochelle’s diligence and responsiveness to club matters has been outstanding and I’d personally like to thank her for everything she has done for the club during her paid hours as well as countless volunteered hours. In 2019, Rochelle took on the major role of project managing the “Pick My Project” clubhouse renovation in addition to her normal duties. Without her assistance our 2019 renovations would not have been completed so successfully. I hope we continue to see Rochelle around the club.

On behalf of all of us in the finance and administration team, thank you to everyone for their support during the year and we look forward to seeing you around the club next season.

Until next summer,

Adrian Koller 

Director of Administration and Finance