Sallianne Signing Off

My role as Acting CEO in these last six months has been to have a hand in steadying the ship alongside our terrific and talented staff, during the state election and off the back of other challenges built into a perfect storm. As I reflect, I am grateful for the industry’s support — thank you. I would also like to thank the Board of ClubsNSW for giving me the opportunity.

Our ClubsNSW team have continued to be resolute in the support of our industry and I commend each of them for their dedication. We know ours is an important role in protecting and promoting a great industry of people, for people.

This time has seen me doubling down on the need for our industry to stand strong and tall together — not necessarily to fight, but to, very deliberately, have one voice and to deliver the best outcomes for our communities and not to fragment our worth to our state. It remains critical that we speak as one to deliver the best outcomes for all. No question, it is sometimes easier to take a path that is self-serving and more comfortable, particularly when there is much at stake, but we are definitely greater, united.

The Economic and Social Impact of Clubs in NSW report we recently launched speaks volumes to the theme that ‘we are greater as the sum of the whole’ and I emphasise that we must remain focused on our industry impact when leading our politicians and policy makers along the difficult path of change in their reform agenda. It is common knowledge that as humans we do not like change, but it is inevitable, so being at the table and leading the conversation is vital.

These past few months have been insightful and valuable. Of course, I already knew that we are a terrific industry, but I have been able to meet a wider range of people in and around our industry and communities and have had the most uplifting discussions in clubs, learning about their incredible impact at a local level.

I spoke to the ClubsNSW team early in the piece about how on my travels in our regions, I enjoyed coming upon each new town, all marked with the local club signage about five kilometres out. Our club industry is our NSW town’s welcome sign saying: “Come on in, our town is waiting for you” and that is an important driver for our future vitality of our state. These are the messages that are so important that our government hears and hears loudly.

Thanks for indulging me by reading the Friday Round-Up each week, where ClubsNSW Chairman Dr George Peponis and I shared key highlights. It serves as a great reminder of what our industry is achieving, and I have enjoyed shining a light on regional club initiatives, too.

I know you will join me in welcoming our incoming Chief Executive Officer, Rebecca Riant, and I am looking forward to introducing her to you as soon as possible. Rebecca brings a highly experienced and innovative guiding hand to our industry and will be ably supported by the incredibly talented ClubsNSW team.

Thank you again for your support and I look forward to seeing you in person again soon.