PRESIDENT'S REPORT

2023 was a strong year for both membership attendance at dinners and new members joining our Society. Numbers were consistently between 18-22 per dinner. We have also enjoyed a wonderful array of venues to choose from. Perhaps the variety of offerings is as strong as it has been in a while?

The role of President has been made easy with the help of a very strong and committed Committee comprising of Dean Stevens (Secretary), Andew Bradley (Food Master), Glenn Sharp (Treasurer), Andrew Rohan (Wine Master), Shaun English (Cellar master) and Anthony Singleton, (who was having a spell from a specific role after an elongated time as past President!). Thankyou gentlemen for making my time as President a smooth one!

The past year has been highlighted by the butchering of the French language by our much-loved Wine Master. It is almost a letdown then a French or Italian wine isn't on the menu! Also, this past year I must thank. Glenn Sharp for setting us up on XERO so invoicing for dinners is streamlined. Dean has been so organised and helpful with committee meetings and record keeping. Shaun has a really organised cellar and one that is very balanced and up to date with stock on hand! Finally, Andrew Bradley has helped grow the list of restaurants we support and in turn the local industries that benefit from our support.

A special thanks to Bob House who runs our blog and makes the trek from Melbourne every month by train.

Lastly, thankyou to all members who supported the Locals Dinner at the Canberra Hotel in February. It is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the regions wonderful wine and food businesses. It is my hope that this event might become an annual event with partners, moving forward.

Our Society is in great shape for 2024 and I looking forward to sharing many dinners with you all. Paul Martino

President 2022-2023