Dear Members,
We’re pleased to provide you with a succinct summary of our recent Annual General Meeting (AGM):
Meeting Details:
- Date: August 3, 2023
- Time: 7:30 AM
- Location: Mantra at Sharks
Key Highlights:
- Meeting Commencement: The meeting was declared open at 7:35 AM by President Paul Sedawie.
- Attendance: Present at the AGM were members including Paul Sedawie, Ruth Benjamin-Thomas, George Christianos, Damien Cody, Wayne Sedawie, Sam Manis, Chris Gawthorpe, Sally Patel, Stephen Ellerman, Estella Sedawie, John MacDonald, Ted Hamilton, and Ross Sedawie. Natassa Patel sent apologies.
- Treasurer’s Report: The financial report highlighted an opening balance of $32,050.44, with $600 income and $13,907.45 via PayPal. Expenses included sponsorship for Winton, site management, insurance, and opal testing. The bank balance totaled $26,984.49 with an additional $13,907.45 in PayPal, totaling $40,891.94.
- Membership Update: The Opal Association’s membership saw a drop from around 65 members three years ago to around 20, with renewed interest attributed to the certification function.
- Officebearer Nominations: Nominations were accepted and approved for key positions including President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Publicity Officer.
- Certification Updates: The Opal Association is implementing a new certification template with changes, including clarity on opal bodytone (LIGHT, DARK, BLACK). Members must pass written and practical tests to issue certificates. Certification requirements and responsibilities were discussed in detail.
- Industry Representation: Ruth Benjamin-Thomas volunteered to represent the Opal Association at the JAA AGM to contribute to opal classification discussions.
- Future Initiatives: Plans were discussed for updating certificates, logo, and membership packs. Sponsorship opportunities for shows, awards, and industry events were explored.
- Social Media and Promotion: Strategies for enhancing the association’s presence, including Instagram and media releases, were suggested for promoting opals.
- Conclusion: With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:25 AM by President Paul Sedawie.
For in-depth insights, please refer to the full minutes attached.
Your active engagement and contributions are vital to the Opal Association’s success. Thank you for your ongoing dedication.
Best regards,
Paul Sedawie President Opal Association