Our January meeting was held a week earlier due to the fourth Monday falling on a public holiday. The meeting was attended by 41 members with 10 apologies and two visitors.
Mr G Keys was introduced as a prospective member and new member Mr D Jones was presented with his badge and membership card and welcomed to the family; we also actioned a transfer for Mr R Carl from Ballina.
On a sadder note the Ladies Auxiliary has folded as of 31st December 2018. This was due to a lack of volunteers and the inability to fund raise due to the problems within RSL headquarters. Thank you ladies for the work that you have performed over the years, your assistance will be greatly missed.
The request to be involved in starting up an Army Cadet Unit in Maclean was unfortunately not able to be actioned. This was due to there being a need for properly trained Cadet Officers and this takes approximately three years. We can only be involved on the basis of giving them use of our bus at cost.
Several of our members lowered the display cabinet in the foyer; this will allow the Honour Boards to be moved to the front of the Club in a much more respectful position. The ships that were on display have been donated to the Grafton Naval Cadets and the Yamba Yacht Club.
The president thanked the members involved in placing the WW1 German mortar up at the Cenotaph, it looks fantastic.
V Watts has started a ‘have a chat’ get together at 0930 – 1100 every Tuesday at the Services Club.
The Naval & Mariners will be holding a service to commemorate the 55th Anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Voyager at 1100 on February 10 at the Cenotaph.
Your 2019 membership fees are now overdue and all members are reminded that if you are not financial then you cannot vote at the next meeting. Members are reminded that our next meeting on February 25 will also include the AGM.
Trevor Plymin