Ducks Unlimited NZ

Displaying items by tag: AGM 2015

Thursday, 04 April 2019 22:44

Presidents Report AGM 2014

Wildlife is a great joy to all of us whether they are wetland, forest or common species. 

Sitting writing this I am looking out my office window at the coming and goings of numerous wax eyes and the occasional tui feeding on the sugar water put out for them. I still get a thrill seeing these common species even though I have had the pleasure of working with some of our most endangered species like kakapo and kiwi. Wetlands, waterfowl and marsh birds are no different and this is what drives DU. 

The last year has been a good one with our Flight magazine editor Liz Brook, Secretary Jan Abel, and Web Site and Quack Club Coordinator Michelle Cooper all making great contributions in promoting DU and ensuring we operate well on behalf of our members. 

Their input is pivotal to what we achieve. To the other Directors thank you for your efforts.

Discussions are continuing with Tony Roxburgh Chairman of the National Wetland Trust as to how we can work together. 

They have progressed designs for their national wetland centre to be located at Lake Serpentine near Te Awamutu.

Wairio Wetland near Lake Wairarapa continues to be our flagship project with the benefits of the Stage 4 project resulting in 35 hectares of shallow wetland (maximum depth 1.2 metres) being created by the construction of a 1.2 km bund. Waterfowl use is high and includes regular sightings of the endangered bittern. This work was funded by Greater Wellington Regional Council, NZ Game Bird Habitat Trust and DU. Planning for a similar sized project for Stage 2 and 3 is well advanced and should be constructed next summer. Tree planting and maintenance are also major tasks funded from a range of other sponsors. The AGM field trip takes in Wairio so you will be able to see and hear firsthand what has been happening.

We have been long term supporters of a number of very successful waterfowl projects (Pateke, Whio, White swan). A new focus has been on the endangered bittern (less than 1000 birds in NZ and 750 Australia) and the DU Board are currently considering a proposal to support a study by a doctorate student from Massey University. Bittern will be a great additional flagship species for DU’s wetland objectives.

DU’s slowly declining membership is still a concern and our members are aging. This will be a focus for the Board this year.

During the summer we lost one of our great stalwarts in the passing of Dave Johnson who was a life member. Dave has been a magnificent supporter and mentor for many of us. His contribution will be sorely missed.

I look forward to seeing as many as you as possible at the AGM at Martinborough. The organisers have a great programme planned.

John Cheyne

Published in Issue 160
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Thursday, 04 April 2019 22:33

AGM venue – a right cracker

Brackenridge Country Retreat is the place for this year’s Ducks Unlimited Annual General Meeting, annual dinner and the much anticipated auction. 
The weekend event includes a trip to Wairio Wetlands, it has come on leaps and bounds since our last visit, followed by lunch at the Lake Ferry Hotel.*
Brackenridge Conference Manager Leeann O’Neill said they are looking forward to hosting DUNZ members Conference and AGM at Brackenridge in August. 
“For those who missed reading the April issue of Flight we are situated a three minute drive from the Martinborough Square,” said Leeann.
Brackenridge has the atmosphere of early New Zealand station dwellings and with a view of the iconic Haurangi ranges.
All members should have received the brochure about events at the AGM, and the information about booking accommodation. 
Brackenridge can accommodate 64 guests, so make sure you do not miss out.
Accommodation -
 Studios, two bedroom cottages with two bathrooms and four bedroom cottages with three bathrooms (includes self catering continental breakfast provisions with free range eggs).
Indoor heated 20m lap pool and gym complimentary for guests (16 years and over).
On site day spa offering a large range of therapeutic and beauty treatments (bookings essential).
Register now for another fun DUNZ AGM.
 
 
 
Brackenridge
White Rock Rd
Martinborough
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.brackenridge.co.nz
Ph: 063068115 Fax: 063068119
 
*Lake Ferry is a small settlement between the shores of Lake Onoke and Palliser Bay. 
Settlement in the area dates back hundreds of years. Research suggests people living there from the 12th century until about 1600. Maori settlers lived mainly around Lake Onoke and adjoining lakes. 
European settlers brought sheep and cattle into the area in 1844, driving stock along the coast from Wellington. These settlers were the first to establish pastoral farming in New Zealand.
Following a drowning in 1850, a ferry service was established across Lake Onoke. The ferryman needed accommodation and to supplement his income he opened the Lake Ferry Hotel in 1851. 
Lake Ferry is a mixture of holiday homes and permanent residents. Local attractions include the Putangirua Pinnacles, Cape Palliser lighthouse and a seal colony. 
Published in Issue 160
Tuesday, 27 February 2018 20:09

Presidents Annual Report August 2015

It gives me great pleasure in presenting my annual report for 2014-15. As you will read we are not short on challenges.

Over the last 12 months we have had a number of highs and the odd low. Starting with the low, we have the same problem faced by DU Canada, DU USA and many other New Zealand based organisations in trying to maintain the number of members. Our membership is aging and few younger people are joining.

The DU Board have over the last four years sought advice on our future direction and increasing membership. This included aligning ourselves more closely with other similar organisations which are experiencing similar problems. Unfortunately people appear to have a greater array of demands on their time and this seems to reduce their desire to be members of organisations like DU. Declining membership naturally impacts on income. Any DU member with a magic wand and a few pearls of wisdom on the issue please let me know.
In spite of this problem DUNZ and its wetland conservation arm, Wetland Care NZ still punch well above their weight in terms of what they are achieving. The Wairio wetland project in the Wairarapa continues to be our major wetland restoration project. The recent construction of the long bund to better retain water in Stages 1-3, highlights what can be achieved when collaborating with others. This $30,000 project received magnificent financial support from the Clean Up Wairarapa Moana Fund (Greater Wellington Regional Council), NZ Game Bird Habitat Trust, South Wairarapa Rotary Club, Nikau Trust and Pharazyn Trust. While DU’s finances are limited, we are on the lookout for other worthwhile projects where DU seed funding can leverage contributions from other organisations.

Fund raising is important for DU and the Manawatu and Wairarapa Chapters do an excellent job in organising the pre waterfowl hunting season clay target field shoot which results in a welcome donation towards our wetland projects. Our AGM weekend also generates valuable income.

DU is still involved with conservation programmes with blue duck (whio), brown teal (pateke) and white swan.
A new project DU is supporting is the doctorate study on the endangered bittern at Lake Whatuma in Hawke’s Bay being undertaken by Emma Williams, Massey University. Her findings will assist the conservation of this flagship species, which in turn will lead to improved wetland outcomes nationally.

Our organisation is like an extended family with many members looking forward to the AGM to renew friendships. This is important, but could not happen without the excellent work of our Secretary Jan Able, Flight Editor Liz Brook and Web Site Manager Michelle Cooper. Your Board of Directors also work hard to achieve positive outcomes for DU. Being a Director is fun and involves working alongside a group of similar minded people. If you are interested in becoming a Director please talk to one of us.

Thank you for your on-going support. Wetlands are always going to need a helping hand.

John Cheyne, President
Published in Issue 164
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Tuesday, 27 February 2018 19:54

AGM 2014 Minutes

Ducks Unlimited New Zealand
40th Annual General Meeting 2 August 2014
9am at Brackenbridge Conference Centre, Martinborough.
Welcome:
The President John Cheyne, welcomed members to the 40th Annual General Meeting.

Apologies:
Ian, Dawn and Paul Pirani, Nancy Payne, James and Di Martin, Dan Steele, Anne Russell, Chris Bindon, Clare Worth

Motion:
That the apologies tendered are accepted.
Moved: Di Pritt
Seconded: Ian Jensen
Carried

Minutes of the last AGM:
(Copies available at the AGM.)
Motion: That the minutes of the last AGM be accepted as a true and complete record.
Moved: John Bishop.
Seconded: Jim Campbell.
Carried.

Matters arising from the 2013 minutes:
No matters arising.

President’s Report:
John Cheyne (Circulated in Flight #164, copies available at the AGM.) -
John thanked the Board for their contribution.
- Talked about Bittern research which the Board is supporting to $2.5K
Motion: The President’s report is accepted.
Moved: John Bishop, Seconded: Jim Campbell.
Carried.

Matters arising from the President’s 2013 Report:
No matters arising.

Financial Report:
John Bishop
John presented the Financial Report which is subject to review Income $61K Expenses $68K - Our membership is waxing and waning. -
Change in AGM receipts due to way accommodation was charged.
- Chapter donations are half.
- Still a deficit of $7K.
Motion: That the 2014 financial report be accepted.
Moved: John Bishop, Seconded: Jim Campbell.
Carried.

Waterfowl and Wetlands Trust Report:
David Smith.
A/Cs completed and reviewed.
The Financial Year ends 31 December.
Funds were up from $415K to $437K, an improvement of our position by 8.4%.
As always subject to $$ fluctuations however fund is in good shape.
Moved: Di Pritt,
Seconded: K Barnes.
Carried.

Election of Officers:
Board Election: The President read out the following Statement:

The Constitution states that the Board should consist of not less than six, of which half, but not more than two thirds shall be permanently appointed Directors. As of right, the permanent appointments are the Chairman, President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.

Other permanent appointments are Neil Candy and William Abel.

Nominations for the Board:
As there are no new nominations the existing board members, Jim Law and John Dermer, be re-elected.
Moved: David Smith,
Seconded: Glenys Hansen.
Carried.

Reports:
Wetland Care: William Abel (tabled).
Royal Swan Report: William Abel (tabled).
Website Report (tabled).
Michelle Cooper (webmaster) covered off her report.
Have had good hits on the website. If anyone has anything for website please let us know
Wairio Wetland: Jim Law (Full report tabled).
Jim firstly recognised the involvement of Ross Cottle, Jim Campbell, Howard Egan and John Cheyne on the Wairio project. He showed some photos of the project.
 
Summary: This project lead by DU, is strongly supported and seen as a success. It is a forerunner for the collaborative process with DOC.
 
Pateke:
Mike Camm (Full report tabled).

Whio:
Peter Russell (Full report tabled).
Peter talked to his report. Young pairs going well, using wild birds and flock mating. Bringing in South Island eggs. Survival rates are pretty good. Releasing at Egmont, think the tides have turned.
 
Membership Report:
Jan Abel.
- 75% renewal rate for membership to date – about same as last year.
- How would people feel with emailing out membership renewals? With another increase coming up in postage would this be a good opportunity?

General Business: 
Liz Brook Flight Editor spoke to the meeting – she would like more photos or material from members.

John Bishop talked to the AGM.
-looking for guidance from members as to where DUNZ goes in the future. Mentioned that DU Canada has their AGM every two years, also mentioned letter from Whangarei Forest & Bird. Maybe put money in a Trust?

Closure:
The meeting closed at 10.05am
Published in Issue 164
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Tuesday, 27 February 2018 19:50

DUNZ AGM / Conference 2015

Are you ready for the Ducks Unlimited 41st AGM 2015, Conference and Dinner, July 31 to August 2.

The Distinction hotel in Palmerston North is the venue. The rooms are comfortable, and the food is excellent. Yip – I have eaten there.

A bus trip to view the lovely Rangiwahia Wetlands is a scenic ride there and back, and Mike Bourke’s Wetlands have been a true labour of love. I hear there are even a few trout swimming around there.

Lunch at the refurbished Apiti Country Pub, (now called a bar and grill). Apiti still seems to have that slightly “wild-west” flavour. Soak up the atmosphere.

Back in town in time for a drink or two before dinner and time to browse around the silent auction goods. Dinner followed by what is often the highlight – the real action auction.

Sunday morning 9am – hopefully no hangovers – Emma Williams can bring us up to speed on her research into bittern at Lake Whatuma.

So – as they used to say when many of us were younger – “See you there or be square!”

If you have not received the Conference flyer, please contact DU's efficient secretary Jan Abel. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Or as a last resort you can contact me. My email and phone number are at the bottom left of page 2.

Liz Brook
Published in Issue 164
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Sunday, 25 February 2018 22:01

Hot soup hits the spot

 
Published in Issue 165
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Sunday, 25 February 2018 21:47

Drama on Bourke wetland walk

 
Published in Issue 165
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Sunday, 25 February 2018 21:41

Getting the lowdown on DUNZ

Getting the lowdown on DUNZ
Published in Issue 165
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Thursday, 22 February 2018 19:38

AGM 2015 - minutes

41st Annual General Meeting August 2015

Ducks Unlimited New Zealand

8.30am at Distinction Hotel and Conference Centre, Palmerston North. 

Welcome:

The President John Cheyne, welcomed members to the 41st Annual General Meeting.

A special welcome was extended to the  Piranis.

Apologies:

Glenys Hansen and Athol Rowden, Dan and Sandy Steele, Peter and Anne Russell, Chris Bindon, Graham Berry, Sue Perry, Fraser Chetwin.

Motion:

That the apologies tendered are accepted.

Moved: John Bishop.

Seconded: Di Pritt.

Carried .

Minutes of the last AGM: 

(Circulated in Flight #164, copies available at  the AGM.)

Motion:

That the minutes of the last AGM be accepted as a true and complete record. Moved:

David Smith.

Seconded: Neil Candy.

Matters arising from the 2014 minutes:

No  matters arising.

President’s Report:

John Cheyne (Circulated in Flight #164, copies available at  the AGM.)

We are facing challenges with maintaining our membership. Our members are aging and younger people just aren’t joining. 

Main support base is from Wairarapa and Manawatu Chapters. The Wairio wetland project continues to be our major wetland restoration project. 

Reiterated his thanks to three key ladies – Liz Brook, Jan Abel and Michelle Cooper 

Motion:

The President’s report is accepted.

Moved: John Bishop.

Seconded: Adrienne Bushell.

Carried. 

Matters arising from the President’s 2014  Report:

No matters arising.

Financial Report:

John Bishop

John ran through the accounts and explained the main differences between receipt of funds.

This particularly relates to the Wairio project where payout has occurred before receipt of funds in. 

Accounts show a loss of $41253 for y/e 31 March 2015 

Motion:

That the 2015 financial report be accepted.

Moved: John Bishop.

Seconded: Ken Barnes.

Carried.

Waterfowl and Wetlands Trust Report: 

David Smith. 

Funds $463420 as at July so even with the usual fluctuations it has not done too badly, an improvement of our position of  just under 8 percent.  

Held in a variety of companies predominantly Australasian but some overseas. 

Adrienne Bushell questioned re ethical investing. 

Moved: Di Pritt.

Seconded: John Bishop.

Carried.

Election of Officers:

Board Election:

The President read out the following  Statement:

The Constitution states that the Board should consist of not less than six, of which half, but not more than two thirds shall be permanently appointed Directors. 

As of right, the permanent appointments are the Chairman, President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. 

Other permanent appointments are Neil Candy and William Abel. 

John Dermer and Jim Law are standing again

by rotation and also have a nomination of Gill Lundie for the Board. 

Call for any further nominations – None - therefore all were declared as duly elected. 

Moved: David Smith.

Seconded: Glenys Hansen.

Carried.

Reports:

Wetland Care: William Abel (tabled).

Royal Swan Report: William Abel (tabled).

Website Report: Michelle Cooper (webmaster) Same as last year but with more visitations.

Could someone write on how to build a wetland. And what to plant maybe publish on our  website?

Quack Club: Only have five schools involved and 80 younger kids belong. It is continuing  successfully but could be doing better. 

Wairio Wetland:

Jim Law (Full report tabled).

He also showed photos of the project.

Summary: In Wairarapa this project is seen as a significant success story and could be considered a forerunner for organisations such as ours to take on. Perhaps DUNZ could look at one large project every 5 years - need to look to start a new one.

Pateke: Mike Camm (no report).

Whio: Peter Russell (Full report tabled).

Membership Report: Jan Abel. 78 percent memberships renewed slightly up  on last year.

General Business:

Clarification re Election of officers given. John Dermer and Jim Law were re-elected with Gill Lundie welcomed to the Board. 

Thanks to the Board members for their contribution. 

Closure:

The meeting closed at 9.30am.

Published in Issue 167
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