Winter Group Inc. Cross Country Ski Club

Unlike 2008, 2009 wasn’t a bumper snow season. But there was good skiing to be had for those who got their timing right, or were prepared to travel.

I was appointed by the Committee to the vacant position of President in June 2009. It has been a privilege to assist the Club in that way.

Our major activity was the Howmans Gap Camp in August which seemed to be enjoyed by all participants despite a mixed bag of weather. Some other activities did not go ahead because of lack of snow (primarily at Lake Mountain). This was probably more disappointing for the people of Marysville and Lake Mountain because they were looking for a good season to help recover from Black Saturday.

Our out-of-season camping trips and social activities have allowed members to keep in contact. Pub nights have continued to be popular with our venues list being fine tuned to favour those with good value food and wine and reasonably quiet and comfortable eating areas.

Being our biggest non-recoverable expense, public liability insurance costs have continued to concern the Committee. We propose to address this in the short term by putting a motion to the meeting tonight to increase the subscription rates. Falling membership numbers are also a concern, and if you see an opportunity to publicise the Club please let me know.

Finally, a big thank you to the Committee who have put in many, many hours attending meetings, organising activities, and performing their duties to keep the Club functioning. A special thanks to Loch Wilson for his many years of service as President, and continuing to represent Winter Group at “peak group” meetings. Thanks also to Jan Gross for auditing the Club’s books.

I look forward to the next cross country ski season.