BIAV AGM

The BIAV AGM took place on Wednesday 26 April in the Bayview Room at the Royal Brighton Yacht Club. President Eleni Savva welcomed the enthusiastic group of members in attendance, and indicated that 2022 had been a strong year for BIAV on many fronts, as well as for the industry. Eleni thanked all of the BIAV members for their engagement and contributions, as well as her fellow Board members, all committee members, the CEO Steve Walker, and his team. Eleni also reflected on the 2022 merger attempts toward a national BIA, acknowledging that best efforts were put forward, however in the best interests of Victorian members, the time was just not right on this occasion.

Finance Chair Neil James presented the financial report which was received and approved by members. This did reflect a significant surplus as a result of the May building sale settlement, slightly reduced by a small trading deficit. The financial report did reflect BIAV’s intent to continue to deliver for members, even in tight financial periods.

The five divisional meetings were concurrently conducted and congratulations to the five nominees who were each elected unopposed. These were Scott O’Hare (Boat Dealers), Franz Grasser (Chandleries/Associations), Michael Neumann (Marinas/Clubs), Peter Buckingham (Life Members), and Michelle Reid (Manufacturers). The first four of those were re-elected, whilst Michelle was elected for the first time, replacing Eleni Savva who departed the Board at this AGM. These five elected Board members join Daved Lambert and Neil James who continue as Appointed members.

The CEO Steve Walker with the support of those present thanked Eleni for a great year as President and for her great contribution across all BIAV areas of governance and leadership.

During Other Business, members also received a detailed outline of how BIAV had recently been subject to a major cyber fraud incident, the steps taken since, and the prospects of recovery of the stolen funds.

The evening concluded with a brief industry catch up and drink.

Photographed below is new Board member Michelle Reid from Dunbier.