New committee. New year.

Each year at our annual dinner, we also host our AGM. Our committee stands down and we elect a new group.

Before we sat down and enjoyed a wonderful festive dinner and the rest of the planned engagements, we elected a new committee. The committee has remained rather constant and stable for near on a decade. It has given the Club a strong platform to perform its duties and solidify its direction. However, we have been crying out for some younger voices, with fresh ideas and to challenge the status quo and the group. It's important to continually evolve and hear new ideas.

Therefore it was it was particularly pleasing to welcome two younger members to the group, Mark Haley and Phil Elaren, whose involvement will bring fresh energy to the Club’s leadership.

Both Mark and Phil regularly game fish with members of the Club. Each enjoy chasing Southern Bluefin Tuna in our local waters as well has heading to the South Coast of New South Wales to chase Marlin and Yellowfin. Phil is the son of long time member Harvey Marks and Mark is the nephew of former President Allen Gowland. Both have impressive fishing bloodlines, and seeing these family connections continue in our Club is much welcomed.

The Club also extends its sincere thanks to Andrew Pennisi, who has decided to stand down after more than a decade of dedicated service. Andrew has held demanding roles including Treasurer and Secretary – positions that require significant time, care, and attention. He has also been an important conduit with the GFAV and the Australian Club, regrading the arrangement of Annual Dinners for the Club. His long-standing commitment and contribution are sincerely appreciated. Andy will remain on as a Club member, and will continue to provide the committee his guidance and advice.

The 2025–26 Committee is as follows:

• Scott Gowland – President

• Allen Gowland – Vice President

• Mark Nantie – Secretary & Treasurer

• Tim Simpson – General Committee 

• Vic Teasdale – General Committee

• David Ellis – General Committee

• Kel Taylor – General Committee

• Mark Haley – General Committee

• Phil Elaren – General Committee

Committee positions will again be up for election at the AGM held in November as a precursor to the Annual Dinner. Members intersted to joining the committee should reach out to Mark Nantie, the Clubs's secretary.

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