[Centres] Changing of the Guard at Riding for the Disabled NSW

Wed Nov 13 21:42:02 AEDT 2024

Dear RDA Family, centres, volunteers, riders, and participants

We hope this message finds you well. We understand that recent weeks have
been filled with confusion and frustration due to various communications
regarding our organization. As the current directors, we want to take a
moment to reassure you that we are committed to RDA New South Wales and to
all of you.

There have been many discrepancies surrounding the recent Special General
Meeting. It is important to clarify that the board was not invited to the
meeting on Monday, the 11th, and the agenda sent to the Centres was not
approved by us. We want to emphasize that the constitution we operate under
is the one from May 2018, and any changes require proper processes to be
followed, including a 75% approval from our eligible centres as well as
other requirements before those changes can take place.  None of this has
yet happened.

Currently, there are 30 Centres eligible to vote, and it is crucial to note
that 13 Centres, along with Mr. Bruce Manfield, do not have the authority to
form the so-called working party or to use RDA New South Wales letterhead
and logos. We understand that some concerns may arise about the legality of
these actions, including, at the very least, potential breach of copyright.
However, we want to assure you that no costs will fall on our Centres or
riders, and we are doing what we can to ensure that there will be no
administration issues for any Centres.

We have received feedback from members of this self-appointed working party,
and it is clear that some individuals do not represent their Centres as they
claim. We appreciate your patience and support as we navigate this situation
together for the benefit of RDA (NSW) and our riders.

To those of you who remain dedicated to the mission and values of RDA New
South Wales, we are grateful for your support. Keep doing what you do best,
working with your riders, participants, volunteers, and horses.

For those who feel differently and wish to step away, we respect your
decision. We truly regret the distress this situation has caused within our
RDA family, and we are sincerely sorry for any disruption you have
experienced.

Furthermore the email sent by Greg Urand tonight 13/11/24 at9.21pm has not
been discussed or approved by the directors as per the current constitution
to be compiled or sent to anyone.

A vote of no confidence  in the Chairperson Greg Urand was also moved ,
seconded and discussed and passed at a recent board meeting.

Allan Burton as of 9.01am 14th November 2024 will be the residing chair of
RDA(NSW) 

Greg Urand will keep his directorship and portfolio as development officer.

Thank you for your understanding and for being a part of our community. We
are here for you and will continue to work diligently for the benefit of
all.

Tracy , Linda, Allan, Olwen and James.

Kind Regards

Tracy Lucas

HON; Director

Executive Officer/Grants Officer and Assistant communication - MAICD

0488727085

Email - tracy.lucas at rdansw.org.au <mailto:tracy.lucas at rdansw.org.au> 

              Gemini.winsoft at bigpond.com <mailto:Gemini.winsoft at bigpond.com>

Web -    WWW.rdansw.org.au <http://www.rdansw.org.au/> 

From: Greg Urand <greg.urand at rdansw.org.au> 
Sent: Wednesday, 13 November 2024 9:21 PM
To: RDA NSW BOARD <Board at rdansw.org.au>; stateoffice at rdansw.org.au
Cc: centres at rdansw.org.au; rda.wagga at gmail.com; Ryde RDA
<ryde.rda at gmail.com>; rdaryde.president at gmail.com; ld.finlay4 at gmail.com;
secretaryrdarichmond at gmail.com; secretary at rdaraymondterrace.org.au;
president at rdaraymondterrace.org.au; kylieannfinlay at gmail.com;
susanfwills at gmail.com; e.g.binney at gmail.com; vprdaillawarra29 at gmail.com;
treasurerrdaillawarra29 at gmail.com; secretaryrdaillawarra29 at gmail.com;
presidentrdaillawarra29 at gmail.com; reneehooke at westnet.com.au;
gunnedahrda at gmail.com; "RDA NSW Tall Timbers
Centre"@syd-vps1.digitalguru.net.au; goulburnrda at gmail.com;
coonarda at gmail.com; rdacowra at gmail.com; info at valerytrails.com.au;
coffsrda at gmail.com; rdacentralcoast at gmail.com; perrott.carmel at gmail.com;
tumutrda at outlook.com; s-leitch at bigpond.com; secretaryrdakendall at outlook.com;
richardandbett at bigpond.com; mariepurkis4 at bigpond.com;
griffith-leetonrda at outlook.com; martykerry at outlook.com; grove.5 at bigpond.com;
isobelpearce at live.com.au; garryfk43 at bigpond.com; feathertop13 at bigpond.com;
rdabm.president at gmail.com; rdabluemountains at gmail.com; "RDA NSW Tall Timbers
Centre"@syd-vps1.digitalguru.net.au; 'Bruce Manefield'
<Bruce at manefield.id.au>
Subject: Changing of the Guard at Riding for the Disabled NSW

Hello everyone

It gives me the utmost pleasure to provide you all with an update as to the
recent SGM held on 11/11/24. It will be a day to remember in RDA (NSW)
history. 

Whilst I appreciate and respect that some members are not really interested
in what has been happening, it is essential that as Chairperson of RDA
(NSW), I share this exciting news. The eligible member centres voted with
their voices and those voices were heard. It was a meeting that was held in
accordance with the old Constitution dated May 2018 and in line with the
Corporations Act. A copy of the minutes is attached. 

The immediate change for all centres is that the current Board is now been
placed in what is referred to as caretaker mode until the election of the
new Board. This will have no impact on payments.

How exciting..

A New Chapter Begins with the Adoption of a New Constitution

On November 11, 2024, Riding for the Disabled NSW - RDA (NSW), adopted a new
constitution, marking a pivotal moment in the organisation's history. This
significant change will usher in a new era of leadership and governance,
aimed at enhancing the organisation's capacity to support individuals with
disabilities through equestrian activities.

The New Constitution

The newly adopted constitution is a comprehensive document designed to
modernise RDA NSW's operations and governance. It outlines the roles and
responsibilities of the board and volunteers, ensuring a clear and efficient
framework for decision-making and accountability. The constitution also
includes provisions to enhance transparency, inclusivity, and member
engagement. It is attached for your review.

Key Changes in Governance

One of the most notable changes brought about by the new constitution is the
restructuring of the board. The revised structure aims to include a more
diverse range of skills and experiences, ensuring that the board is
well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing RDA NSW.
Additionally, new terms of office and election procedures have been
introduced to promote fresh perspectives within the leadership team.

Board Members

The current Board has been placed into Caretaker mode until the election of
the new Board elected within the next few weeks. It is highly encouraged
that if you would like to be part of this new and exciting organisation, you
nominate. After all, this is your RDA

Looking Ahead

The adoption of the new constitution and the changing of the guard at RDA
NSW signal a bright future for the organisation. The refreshed leadership
team will be poised to drive forward initiatives that will expand RDA NSW's
reach and impact. Key priorities include enhancing program offerings,
increasing community engagement, and securing sustainable funding to support
the organisation's long-term goals.

As RDA (NSW) embarks on this new chapter, the commitment to empowering
individuals with disabilities through equestrian activities remains
steadfast. 

In conclusion, the changing of the guard at RDA NSW, facilitated by the
adoption of the new constitution, represents a significant milestone. It
paves the way for a more dynamic, inclusive, and effective organisation,
dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals with
disabilities.

Please embrace this new change as it is time to move forward,

Regards

Greg

Greg Urand MAICD

Hon Director, Chairperson

NSW Justice of the Peace

0400 858 190

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