5th May 2024.
The annual meeting of RSCM Waikato was held on the 5thMay at St Luke’s Anglican Church, Melville Hamilton.
A small number of people were there representing the Branch from Matamata, Hamilton, Cambridge, Tauranga and Raglan.
The meeting opened in prayer by Canon Phil Wilson, Prest in charge of St Luke’s. The Chair’s report was given by David Brookes, highlighting the events of the year, which included the visit of Hugh Morris, Director of RSCM international. His visit was well received by all, especially his visit to Southwell School, Hamilton, where he took a workshop with the two school choirs.
Merv Hunt, Treasurer of the Branch highlighted the deficit of the Branch accounts during the past year, and the need for action to overcome this in the future, Merv suggested that with the financial hardships in the country, it was not the best time for an increase in membership subscriptions. He moved that the following be implemented: Subscriptions remain the same; a Koha at Branch activities, and a fee to attend Workshops. This was approved at the meeting. Merv also moved that a lower membership subscription be implemented when receiving CMQ in digital form in the future. This was approved.
Election of Officers of the Branch.
Chair: David Brookes. (Second year of 4-year term of Office.)
Secretary/ Treasurer: Merv Hunt.
Committee: Kath Barnsley, Rev Doris Elphick, Claire Whiteman.
Chaplain: Rev Andrew Evans.
Editor of ‘Notes’: Jill Brookes.
After the business of the AGM was concluded, a special Presentation was made to Beth Kay, recognising her gift of music as a church organist for over 60 years among several churches in New Zealand. This was a great occasion for her and her family as she was presented with a framed certificate from RSCM Waikato.
A service of ‘Night Prayer’ followed the AGM in the church, led by Canon Phil Wilson, with 3 hymns accompanied by Beth Kay on the organ.
Following the service, we enjoyed afternoon tea together, and a time to catch up with each other to share musical events that were being held in the region.
Altogether an enjoyable autumn day.
Rev Doris Elphick.