Ian Smith's president's report
KMFC ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, 5th JULY 2009 PRESIDENT'S REPORT       The 2008-2009 year has encompassed considerable achievements, and also notable losses and challenges.  First, to some positive matters.  Our member Hugh Simons, with his team-mate Grant Potter, won the World F2C Championship in 2008 --- twice in fact, and got two World records.  Great stuff, and we are honoured that Hugh has accepted Life Membership of KMFC. Two events of high note have been held.  In October we had another “ Gordon Burford Day’’ --- well attended, greatly enjoyed, and a record set for the number of planes in the air simultaneously.  More next year?  This event has well-enhanced KMFC’s reputation in the model flying community.  In December we celebrated our 50th Anniversary as a Club.  A very well attended event, with many oldies and goldies returning to the ground of their youthful dreams.  Founding member and Club Patron Guy Bevan was there, as was Barry O’Farrell, a senior NSW state parliamentarian. On a less than happy note we learned of the death of a former member, Geoff Ball, in 2008. We also mourned the death, of Brendan Farrell.  Brendan had suffered kidney failure some five years ago, and fought against this with dialysis.  He re-started his early passion for control-line flying, with great enthusiasm.  He inspired great respect and affection, but his time with us was too short.  We have made close links to Brendan’s family, especially his parents Maureen and Pat.  They generously gave all his flying “ stuff” to KMFC, for us to use as we see fit.  The substantial collection of modelling items was auctioned, raising more than $5000.  This money will be used , in part, to fund an annual competition award in Brendan’s name, and in part to fund Club activities.  However the largest portion, $3500, will go to the Renal Treatment Centre at the Children’s Hospital, Westmead, to help young patients. Still dealing with challenges, we learned in January that there are large sporting groups ( AFL, Hockey, Cycling ) that wish to establish themselves in the Showground.  They would, if allowed, take over much of the Showground, and our flat , well kept, area is very attractive to them. In February Ric Bonomo and I attended a forum where present and “possible future” users of the Showground put forward their plans.  We have also raised our needs with the Mayor of Ku-ring-gai Council, amongst others.  In our case we have received formal and strong support from CLAS and MAAA.  We have also approached other groups that might join with us and strengthen our occupancy, gained advice from a lobbyist and scoped possible political support.  We have had a formal response from the Mayor saying that at the present time there is no threat to our activities.  Whilst this is encouraging, there is no specified length to “at the present time”.  I urge you all to be vigilant on this matter, to seek a further formal lease from the Council, to attend relevant meetings in strength, and to seek good political support. One very pleasing step in gaining support, by adding a further user group at our flying ground, is the presence with us of  REMAC members.  As that club has need of a flying ground, KMFC suggested they join us here, and REMAC, via CLAS and MAAA, is know a registered user of the St Ives ground.  Negotiations are presently being finalised to allow the two clubs to operate together in an equitable manner. The running of our club has continued well.  Our own events are well-attended, and we are active at State, National and International levels.  We continue to have a good presence in printed and electronic media. Individual efforts are vital to us, and there is always a good flow of ideas and activities.  From time to time responsibilities change.  This year Joan McIntyre, after long and valuable service, passed on the Editor’s job to Bob Frankel.  Joan bought colour and scope to our newsletter, Bob is bringing his media expertise and vivacity.  Tom Ransome has done great work in organizing and running the Club Stunt events over the years. He has passed on this duty to Grant Wiley, as well as the dark secrets of his handicapping method.  Ross Boyd has done valuable work establishing and running our website, and has passed this duty on to Jeff Reeves. Many of you have acted for the Club in various ways --- in representing us to CLAS, in mentoring, running competitions, ensuring safety, and even baking special cakes.  Our thanks are due to all of you, and to family members and friends who have also worked to support Club events.  The beauty and flatness of our field is due to our new green mower, bought, housed and operated by John Nolan, with notable support from Bob Frankel.  John also carries out the vital and onerous tasks of Secretary, Treasurer, and Ku-ring-gai Council representative. My thanks, and tributes, are due to all of you for your achievements this year.  It has been a privilege to be your President.  Thankyou for the opportunity and support. Ian W Smith July 2009