Ken Turner's Speech

At the Special Meeting of the club called on Sunday, October 30th 2005, Ken Turner, club patron and Councillor for the City of Thuringowa, addressed the assembled members with a passionate speech regarding the history of our club and what it means to him. This is the text:

"Six years ago, Mike Blake and myself and others held a meeting proposing to form a fishing and boating club for the local population. The meeting was well attended and all agreed it was an excellent idea. Hence we have our club The Balgal Beach Boating & Leisure Club.

For six years this club has prospered socially and financially for the benefit of members and community. The last membership figures I have is 140. Our club web site receives a massive number of hits. I believe we have been blessed with good committees and sound leadership since the club's conception.

Personally I have thoroughly enjoyed the club's social activities. BBQs, Camps away, Ball and Trivia nights. All good stuff. I have yet to win a trivia night but will keep trying. Love it!

Unfortunately, in all communities from time to time there will be some outside influences and personality clashes that have absolutely nothing to do with other members of the club. I believe we should just ignore them and get on with promoting our club's activities and our lives.

If somebody chooses to leave, it is their choice and it should not affect the rest of us.

If some people cannot agree to disagree on any issue without holding a grudge, then they need to take a serious look at themselves and how it can affect other innocent parties, including our club and community.

As patron and founding member, I am looking forward to the continuation of the club for many years to come. I am sure when the new committee is elected today, they, like our past committees, will do their best for us.

They will have my full support and I trust yours as well.

Thank You

Ken Turner