MAAA Wingspan

the allocation of money for club assistance, the MAAA member survey results, a review of the strategic plan, public displays, marketing and the issuing (and removal) of MAAA Wings. The Conference will be held at Rydges Hotel, Capital Hill and is open to all members who wish to attend. If you are in the neighbourhood, please come along. Nationals When Wingspan goes to press, the 71st MAAA Nationals will have just completed. There were more than 200 competition entries; the non- competitions entries also proving popular this year. Although no official indoor competitions were planned, participation interest was on the rise for non-competitive indoor flying. Micron Wings (https://micronwings.com/) sponsored the event and provided prizes for participating members. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend this year due to a slight motorcycle mishap. The Alice Springs clubs will once again host the Alice Springs October 2020 Masters Games. There’s some time before the Masters, however, planning for this low-key event, may take some time. It’s open to both experienced and novice flyers. The scenery is amazing and if you have not flown in the centre of Australia before, I recommend you consider a trip for some aeromodelling fun. Membership Much has been said over the past few months about come and try/have a go days and recruitment of members. All our state associations and clubs only survive on the retention of current members and continual recruitment of new, young and old. State Associations and Clubs must look to the future and have in place transition plans to ensure continuity. Recruiting younger members must be a key priority. By younger, I mean younger than the current average age, members who can take over future management roles. The MAAA can assist with resources and advice, however, at the end of the day it is up to the club and club members to play their important role. Safety We achieved the exemptions from CASA due to the MAAA safety culture and reputation built up over many years. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. AEROMODELLING SAFETY IS ALL MEMBERS RESPONSIBILITY Club rules apply to all of us, no matter how experienced we are. Everyone needs to comply with the rules. Your aeromodelling future is in your hands, the poor actions of one could mean a loss for many. Don’t sit back and watch members breach the rules, say something (politely). If you are on the receiving end of the advice, take it in the spirit it is given and help your club survive. The results we achieved were because the practices of many over the years. We can all fly safely, within the rules and still have FUN. Until next time, enjoy your modelling. Neil Tank President 04 president’s report CONTINUED...