20 DECEMBER 2005

National Women's Section

Claire Emberson, President of the National Women’s Section, reports on the recently held meeting at Mount Manganui of the National Women’s Section.

It is with pleasure that I submit this report, after attending the Interim Committee Meeting held at Mt Maunganui RSA and the two Conferences held at Silverdale RSA and Hastings RSA.

I sincerely thank these Associations for their hospitality. I was received at all venues with great interest in our formation of the National Body. RSA’s that were unsure of what this entails, now hopefully all have a better understanding. What will be of utmost importance is the fact that now we have a direct input to National Executive Committee.

I personally cannot see major changes to the Women’s Section, we will continue to give our services and respect to our RSA’s and receive the same.

To cover the great number of RSA’s I am intending to appoint District Leaders as the men do, this will prove to be the best way to keep all of the Women’s Sections up to date. Communication is very important.

On speaking with RNZRSA Vice President Mr Larry Boyle he suggested that we hold our Annual General Meeting in March 20th, 2006. We will hold this AGM at a venue that will give easy access for sections for sections. Palmerston North was suggested, and Rotorua has shown interest in holding it. On the selection of an appropriate venue I welcome your comments. Please pass them to me C/- of Avondale RSA, PO Box 19023, Avondale, Auckland or fax 09 828 6941.

One RSA matter of great importance is our Youth. We need to be working closely with them. I believe some RSA’s are looking at Junior Membership. Check with your local Associations on how this can be achieved.

Auckland Districts have for the past 30 plus years had Youth Council, with reciprocal tours to New South Wales and the “Debutantes Ball”. The Debutantes Ball is a splendid occasion. To work with the youth is a very rewarding experience. Try It!
It is going to take a good 12 months, at least to get the National Women’s Section working, as we want it, so patience is a virtue. It is happening.

For personal reasons Jan Bailey can no longer serve as our Secretary. Glennis Mills from Mt Wellington-Panmure RSA has now taken on that role. Glennis may be contacted at – Home 1/19 Atkinson Avenue, Otahuhu or Mobile 027 2423610.

Our current committee is as follows:
President
Claire Emberson – Avondale RSA
Vice Presidents'
Angel Erstich – Far North RSA Phone 09 4067195
Jessie Potter – Howick RSA Phone 09 534 8765
Secretary
Glennis Mills – Mt Wellignton-Panure Phone 027 2423610
Treasurer
Leith Rowe – Palmerston North RSA Phone 06 3567280
District Leaders
Floss Dunkin – Hastings RSA Phone 06 8799755
Norma Shewan – Tuakau RSA Phone 09 2369708
Brenda Smith – Mt Maunganui RSA Phone 07 5757790
Ayleen Beatty – Ashburton RSA Phone 03 3084312
Norma Bates – Kaikohe RSA Phone 09 4011847

If you are still awaiting your receipts please contact Leith Rowe – Treasurer.

I attended the RNZRSA National Executive meeting at Wellington 8,9 & 10 November. It was most interesting and in the near future I will advise you of any outcomes as if affects the National Women’s Section, especially for activities in the ‘Year of the Veteran’ and the RSA’s 90th Anniversary Year.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any queries.

Remember our Motto is: “People helping People”.