Hazel Nicholls
It is my privilege to present another Annual Report of the N.Z.T.C.A.
Presented with pleasure because of the progress made, but concern at what still remains to be done.
Sympathy
I extend sympathy to members who have lost loved ones and branches who because of deaths have gaps in their ranks.
Reports
I have heard and read many branch reports and am happy to learn of interesting local activities. Branches have continued to hold seminars, field days, social functions, sales days, promotions, planting days. Opportunities have been taken to hold functions jointly with Farm Forestry, Herb Society, Soil & Health, Organic growers, etc. I thank Committees for their input. Some Branches are doing nothing, they need the enthusiasm of members and some fresh ideas. Maybe there is a role for you.
Finances
Again many branches are using their funds for research, promotions, etc including trial plantings. Congratulations.
Visits
As I write this I am visiting South Island Branches encouraging members and committees to fulfill the objects of the Association. The National Secretary and N.1.V.P. are in Taranaki reforming their branch. Meeting members and seeing at first hand their interests and needs has given me an even greater awareness of directions for our Association.
Branches
All branches have increasing membership. What a chance to change committees and to improve the scope of branch activities.
Management Committee are also putting in place a document to enable material from Research Institutes to be trialled in branches.
Thanks
My personal thanks to all members of MJC who have worked willingly all year for the interests of members of the Association, to Committees of Branches and Action Groups for their input, to Growing Today staff, to the advertisers in the Members Handbook. Special thanks to contributers to the Recipe Book. M/C hope this will encourage the use of Nuts - Fruits etc and recognition of our Logo.
Great Fruit & Nut Search
Replies are coming in slowly for this. With your cooperation this will be a success.
Thank you too, to the Members for giving me this opportunity and I look forward to another year together fulfilling the Aims and Objects of the Association.
Hazel Nicholls
NATIONAL PRESIDENT