2004/2005

ANNUAL REPORTFOR THE

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN ATHLETIC LEAGUE INC.

2005 AGM AGENDATUESDAY 7THJUNE 2005

MILE END SANTOS STADIUM8.00pm

Receive and confirm the minutes of the last Annual General Meeting and any Special General Meeting held since the last Annual General Meeting.

Receive and consider the League’s Annual Report which shall contain:- President’s Annual Report- Secretary’s Annual Report- Treasurer’s Annual Report- Audited Annual Accounts

Presentation of the audited Annual Accounts and its consideration and adoption.

Election of Office Bearers as conducted by the appointed Presiding Officer.The Office Bearers shall be:- President- Senior Vice-President- Junior Vice-President- Male Athletes’ Representative- Female Athletes’ Representative- Coaches’ Representative- Officials’ Representative

(Please note: Athletes, Coaches and Official Representatives to be nominated and voted upon by only those registered in the sector concerned)

Appointment of Patrons (Bruce McAvaney nominated)and Vice-Patrons (David Grubb, Peter Noblet nominated).

Appointment of the Auditor.

Fix the Annual Registration Fees.

Appointment of Life Memberships – 2 nominations (Colin Rowston and David Grubb)

Transact any other business affecting the interest and welfare of the League, of which due notice has been given according to the Constitution.

Address by the incoming President.

Close of Meeting

A light supper will be available following the meeting.

Refer to item 1: Copies of 2004 Minutes will be available 30 minutes prior to commencement of meeting.

PRESIDENT’S REPORTThe 2004/05 season was a landmark one for the SA Athletic League. It is well documented that since the decision in November 2001 to relocate the Bay Sheffield to Adelaide Oval, the League has faced a difficult and challenging period. Whilst we can now concentrate our energy and resources on the development of our sport, it is worthwhile to look back and take stock of the lessons learned if we are to take advantage of the opportunities that now present.

Sensitivities to various stakeholders have necessitated that one or two facts not be documented or recorded over the past 4 years as perhaps they might. It is important now though, to properly record them. Foremost, is that it was never the intention of the League, at any time, to relocate the Bay Sheffield away from Colley Reserve. That decision was reactive and made only after exhaustive deliberation and exploring of all avenues to keep the event at Colley Reserve. Most frustrating to the League, was that the cause of having to make that decision was exclusively the ineptitude and belligerence of individuals in organisations outside of the League.

As difficult as the last 4 years have been, the League has learned valuable lessons, particularly in taking responsibility for the Bay Sheffield. Those lessons have application to all other meets in the season and have assisted in strengthening them. In addition, the League has formed excellent working relationships with a range of event partners that stand it in good stead to promote memberships and the sport generally. It is doubtful that those lessons and relationships would have been achieved without the challenges of recent years and that is the good on which we focus. Whilst there is still some way to go to rectifying the financial position of the League, the gains of the last year have taken us a long way in that respect. There is now legitimate optimism in looking forward to healthy times.

The 2004/05 season was punctuated not only with the return of the Bay Sheffield to Colley Reserve, but with outstanding increases in the number of female runners, the growth of every meet across the season, increases in nominations and the continued excellence in the standard of our officials. We look forward to repeating and perhaps exceeding similar gains in the coming season, with a number of initiatives already in place for that purpose.

I take this opportunity to give specific thanks to the patrons of the League. The acceptance by Bruce McAvaney of the position of patron was excellent for the League. Bruce's passion for the sport of athletics is well known and was evident throughout last season and we are delighted that he has agreed to continue as patron. I am also personally grateful for the continued support and commitment of David Grubb and Dr Peter Noblet to the League. The League is indebted to both.

Thanks also to the League's committee for their effort and energy over the last year. Hopefully it is getting more enjoyable! The 2005/06 season already looks set to be a good one. Good luck to all in getting ready for it.

BRENDAN GOLDENPresident

TREASURER’S REPORT

I wish to report a surplus for the 2004/05 season of $9,150 as compared to $5,347 in 2003/04.

On top of the profit this year, we have been able to pay $7,000 off the Mort Daly loan and re-instate the Honorariums. The return of the Bay Sheffield back to Colley Reserve has increased our exposure and the number of athletes (particularly women) has increased. There is a good feeling about the place.

While we returned the prize money for the Bay Sheffield back to what it was prior to the reduction last year, the sponsorship we received was below budget but already we have positive indication of a further increase next season. I believe the main reason why the sponsorship was down was do the our first year back at the Bay with sponsors being a bit wary and some waiting to see how successful the return was which from all report was very good.

Having said that, we were still able to increase the combined profit from all the race meetings by $3,886 to $26,115. The Bay Sheffield alone increased its profit by over $10,000 to $17,013 as compared to the previous year.

I personally would like to thank the Committee for their support and, on behalf of the Committee, would also like to thank the Mort Daly Running Foundation, the athletes and the officials for their support and effort during the year.

AMIN CHEHADETreasurer

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 30TH APRIL 20052004 MEMBERS ACCUMULATED FUNDS 2005

(39,165) BALANCE BROUGHT FORWARD

(33,818)

5,347 SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) FOR YEAR

9,150

$(33,818) TOTAL MEMBERS FUNDS

$(24,668)

REPRESENTED BY:-CURRENT ASSETS

100 Petty Cash Advance

100

8,013 Cheque Accounts

2,022

8,113 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

2,122

CURRENT LIABILITIES 7,931 GST Payable

(210)

(210)

7,931 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

(210)

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 34,000

Loan - Mort Daly Running Foundation

27,000

34,000 TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

27,000

FIXED ASSETS 9,800 Office Equipment at Cost

9,800

(9,800) Less Cumulative Depreciation

(9,800)

- - 7,502 Trailer at Cost

7,502

(7,502) Less Cumulative Depreciation

(7,502)

- -

- TOTAL FIXED ASSETS

-

(33,818) TOTAL NET ASSETS

(24,668)

OPERATING STATEMENT FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDING 30TH APRIL 2005

2004 INCOME 2005

22,113 Members Registration

23,661

22,229 Profit/(Loss) from Race Meetings

26,115

76 Interest Received

94

250 Advertising

665

2,273 Donations - Sashes/Trophies

1,337

165 Fines/Sundry

492

1,383 Net Surplus on Annual Dinner & Quiz Night

741

48,489 TOTAL INCOME

53,105

EXPENSES

21,598 Administration Expenses

23,330

7,600 Consultants

-

944 Depreciation

-

- Honoraria

5,875

19,968 Office Salaries

21,612

1,662 Track News Costs

1,383

51,772 TOTAL EXPENSES

52,200

(3,283) SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) FOR YEAR

905

630 Plus Unclaimed Prizemoney

245

8,000 Plus Government Grant

8,000

$ 5,347 Transfer to Accumulated Funds

$ 9,150

AUDITOR'S REPORTI have audited the financial statements of the South Australian Athletic League being the Income and Expenditure and Balance Sheet for the year ended 30th April 2005. I have conducted an independent audit of those financial statements in order to express an opinion of them.

My audit has been conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable assurance as to whether the financial statements are free of misstatement. My procedure included examination on a test basis of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures in the financial statements and the evaluation of accounting policies. I report having received all the information and explanations that I required from the South Australian Athletic League. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion as to whether in all aspects, the financial statements are presented fairly in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards so as to present a view which is consistent with my understanding of its financial position and the results of its operations.

The audit opinion expressed in the report has been formed on the above basis.

In my opinion, the financial statements present fairly in accordance with accounting standards the financial position of the South Australian Athletic League as at the 30th April 2005.

In my opinion the financial report on which this report is prepared is adequate, given the nature and scope of the activities of the South Australian Athletic League.

G.J. SCHUTZ M.I.A.A.Auditor

EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT

It is with pleasure that I submit my report of the 2004/2005 season.

RegistrationsOur Registration break-up (showing comparison of the previous season) is as follows:CATEGORY 2002/03 2003/04 _ 2004/05 _____ Associate 8 11 19Coach (incl 9 athlete/coaches) 14 30 25Country (incl 3 women and 2 s/tr) 10 8 12First Year Athletes (incl 25 women and 5 s/tr) 27 34 55Life Members (incl 4 coaches and 4 officials) 18 19 21Officials (incl 6 volunteers) 24 31 31Open (incl 20 self trained and 7 women) 181 110 105Over 35s (incl 2 self trained) 9 10 11Under 18’s one day registrations 9 22 22Under 20’s (incl 3 self trained and 8 women) 40 45 40Women ( incl 4 self trained ) 27 27 34 _____ TOTAL 368 347 375

A very positive outcome for 2004/2005 season. There has been a significant increase in the women competing this season, an overall increase from a total of 48 women last year to 77 total this year. An increase of 37%. Other significant increases in membership are the First Year athletes, an increase of 38.18%. Our overall membership increase for this season is 7.46% which is an encouraging trend, perhaps the 2004 Athens Olympics assisted in providing renewed interest. I look forward to even greater increases in 2005/2006 season.

Each year we forward letters to all retiring ‘Little Athletic’ members inviting them to come along and join the League. In addition, the League offered Early Bird Registration fees as well as Athletics SA also offering an Early Bird Registration fee, which provided approximately $15 saving for members that registered prior to end of July 2004. Our ‘New Member Incentive’ scheme of providing $10 reduction in the following year registration fee was also an additional motivation for some to introduce new athletes to the League. The competition this season was very good, in particular the Women’s category. In fact, in a couple of instances, the nominations by the women exceeded the Open category. As was the case last year, the distance events struggled to obtain sufficient runners and often resulted in the office phoning our distance runners to encourage them to enter events. My only concern with this problem is that if we fail to get sufficient distance runners, the Program Committee will struggle to provide enough distance events for future programs.

Prize money:Prize money for the season amounted to the grand total of $110,000, an increase of $26,060 for previous season 2003/4. After three rather difficult economic years, gradually the League is getting back on track. The return to Glenelg of the Bay Sheffield and the new sponsorship arrangements have certainly provided a more stable financial position for the League and future years will most surely prosper.

EventsThe Program provided for a variety of events, which includedCategory 2002/2003 2003/2004 ___________ 2004/2005 ___ Women 39 37 48Open 65 59 66

Novice 15 12 11Under 20 16 13 14Under 18 3 2 1Over 35s 19 17 24

Mort Daly Running FoundationMort Daly Running Foundation once again provided the League with $9,950.00 in prize money for the season. Our thanks to Russell Freeland, Phil Daws, Les Brown and Frank McHugh as carers of the trust fund for providing the League with such a substantial contribution.

StatisticsComparison figures of entries, 2000/2001, 2001/2002 and 2002/2003 Season:Carnival 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 PercentageRichmond 244 197 185 202 8.41%Flinders 221 184 187 240 22.08%Hallett Cove (Ex Camden) 235 234 177 224 20.98%Mt Gambier 285 304 274 298 8.75%Colley (Pre Bay Sheffield) 326 258 217 274 20.80%Playford 339 250 253 265 4.52%Plympton 303 286 280 297 5.72%Bay Sheffield 720 749 600 646 7.12%McKinnon/Pulteney 202 175 193 280 31.07%Cousin Jack Edwardstown 224 219 193 264 26.89%Camden Classic 253 250 229 265 13.58%Loxton 234 246 232 289 19.72%Glenelg 176 178 188 5.31%Flagstaff 202 185 180 213 15.49%Sub Total 4018 3929 3401 4234AFL AAMI Stadium 20 20 20 __________________________________________________________________ Total 4042 4093 3453 4254 18.82%

This gave us an increase of 801 nominations. Overall a wonderful result. This season, following successful consultation with Athletics South Australia, we were able to avoid drastic clashes of events, enabling both organisations to realise successful participation of our carnivals.

Bay SheffieldNow that the Bay Sheffield has returned to Glenelg, things are settling down. We have had three difficult years previous and I must say that I am relieved that the worst is over! Whilst construction happening all around Colley Reserve is not ideal, it really had little negative impact on the great success of this historical event. It is anticipated we will have similar construction issues for yet another Bay Sheffield, and then hopefully, things will be even better. With the support of Brendan Golden and Colin Rowston, along with Holdfast Council and our major sponsor, Coopers Brewery, pre organising of the event went very smoothly which was borne out by the tremendous success of the carnival. The enthusiasm of athletes, officials and spectators resulted in making the Coopers Bay Sheffield 2004, a truly memorable and triumphant event.

ProgramThis season commenced with a new venue at Hallett Cove, supported by Marion Council and the Mort Daly Running Foundation. This event replaced the Camden evening Carnival. As usual, our country carnivals, Mt Gambier and Loxton, were a huge success.

Loxton attaining record numbers with Mt Gambier only 6 nominations off their record 2002/2003 season. Reynella is continuing to grow and organisers have indicated their intention to conduct the meet in conjunction with their Christmas Parade. The Flinders meet looked close to being cancelled due to difficulty with sponsorship, however, at the last minute, with a supreme effort by the members of the Flinders Athletic Club, managed to obtain sponsorship funding and ended up with the greatest number of nominations for the past 4 years. Playford turned up the temperature for the event, a very hot day, hence next year it is planned to make this a twilight meet. Our two main preparation events for the Bay Sheffield, Colley Reserve and Plympton continued to provide some excellent competition. It was good to see the return of Richmond hosted by Western Districts Athletic Club with the introduction of a 550 metre SAAL Title added to the program. Edwardstown hosted by Marion Council, featuring the Cousin Jack on Australia Day providing an enjoyable day of athletics and cycling. If all goes according to plan, the Cousin Jack will finally return to the Copper Coast for the 2005/2006 season. As usual the Camden Classic provided athletes with a superb day of athletics and entertainment. McKinnon/Pulteney and Glenelg were both very successful with the highest nominations for the past four years. Flagstaff Hill Athletic Club provided us with a great carnival, despite the last minute change of venue and date.

Congratulations to all the hosts of our events for 2004/2005 season and a well done to all the athletes that competed.

Thank YouAs always I have some words of appreciation I would like to convey.

My thanks to the Committee for their assistance throughout the season.

It has been, (as usual), a pleasure working with the Officials this year. The Officials work very hard to contribute to the success of all the abovementioned events and I commend them on their continued dedication and service to the League. Once again this year we say goodbye to a couple of Officials, Trevor May, our sprint handicapper of some 17 years service to the League, I wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his assistance. Also, a special thanks to Trevor’s wife, Bev, whom many of you may not realise, is responsible for entering the handicap marks into the database for every carnival throughout every season. She is the unsung hero and I thank her for all her hard work. Our Recorder, Craig McMaster is also retiring due to work commitments – once again, many of you probably have been unaware of his role at the carnivals, but without Craig, there would be no results to post on the website. Thank you Craig and we hope to see you back when things ease up for you. Thanks to Ward Swansson, our ‘stand-in’ Video Operator, although he retired the previous season, he managed to help us out for half the season when we lost our ‘new’ Video Operator due to commitments.

A big thank you to John Barker, who has filled in as our Equipment Officer (John is the ‘Claytons’ Equipment Officer). John, I am sure would like to really retire from this position, however, as no one as stepped in to take over the job, he has rallied to my calls for help week after week. This coming season, if no volunteer steps forward to take this position, it will be rostered out to clubs to provide an equipment manager on a roster system for all carnivals.

A special thanks to Brian Hart for the many days put in at the office helping with processing nominations in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The office is extremely busy during that time and Brian rocked up three days a week for about 6 weeks and was a tremendous help. Other pre Christmas regular helpers were Marilyn James and Karen Bateman, thank you to both these ladies for their generous giving of their time. Also a

special thanks to Rex Thompson, who helped me throughout the whole year with mail-outs, along with Brian, Marilyn and Karen. Thanks also to Robbie James and Todd Bateman for their offer of assistance with mail-outs.

Last but certainly not least, thank you to all the Coaches and Athletes. A special thanks to those coaches who rallied round with their athletes and attended to their set-up and dismantle obligations without complaint. Unfortunately, there are some that failed to do their share; in particular, a lot of self-trained athletes were missing when rostered. Every season the Track News has a list of people that are required to do track duties before and after meets, but alas, many tell me they didn’t know. For future seasons, the next team required to set up will be advertised in the previous meet program, as well as in pre season Track News. It is also posted on our website. Whilst often I telephoned coaches or athletes to remind them of their obligations, being informed that “none of our runners are running that carnival” is rather selfish to other athletes who have set up for them at other meets when they do compete. I would ask that athletes/clubs that have difficulty remembering, to please enter your set-up date in your diary. I seem to recall saying something very similar last year, so please athletes, get involved and do your share. On many occasions the only people packing up after a carnival were the officials! Hardly fair when they have devoted their precious time (usually 5-6 hours) to officiate at your running event, then have to spend another 45 minutes to clean up after it!

I hope you have enjoyed the past season as much as I did and look forward to another year working with and for you. .

CATHY THURSTONExecutive Officer

PROGRAMMING REPORT

The Programming Committee for Season 2004/05 consisted of the Male Runners Rep (Mark Barnett), Female Runners Rep (Kate Fenech), Officials Rep (Trevor May), Coaches Rep (Steve Butler) and myself. The committee uses feedback from organising clubs and League members to put together a program which aims to offer options for women, veterans, junior and open runners. It was pleasing to see all categories of runners increase their numbers over the season.

Season 2004/2005 was another exciting season with many highlights. The following is a summary of the 15 meetings on the League’s calendar:

HALLETT COVE – 17 October 2004Hallett Cove hosted a new meeting which turned out to be a terrific location for the kick off to the season, with the City of Marion and Mort Daly Running Foundation providing funding for the day’s prizemoney. As the Oval could not cope with the traditional Gift distance, 100 metre races were the sprint distances for the day, with Duncan Tippins and Tamara Dartnall successful. Novice races over 100 and 400 metres were a good introduction for the plethora of new runners, with over forty first-time competitors nominating.

FLINDERS – 31 October 2004Despite some last minute hitches, the Flinders Athletics Club’s annual Carnival went ahead, with the main races being the 200m Bill Ross Memorial (won by Jake Jervis-Bardy) and the 3200m David Abbott Memorial (won by Kym Morgan). With the high number of women entering, it was decided to run semi-finals of the Women’s 200m and, while this provided extra opportunities for the female sprinters, it meant the program went for longer than normal. This became a common problem during the season and it will be addressed next year, with fewer races at some meets or an earlier starting time at others. It has been confirmed that the Flinders Athletics Club is committed to its meeting next season which is good news as tradition is starting to build with this event.

REYNELLA – 14 November 2004It has been excellent to see Reynella Oval back on the calendar in recent times and the combination with the Reynella Lions Fair works well. The 2004 Reynella Gift saw an impressive performance by 2003 Bay Sheffield winner Todd Bateman, while Duncan Tippins continued his top early season form by winning over 300 metres. Katherine Robb won the first of her sashes in the Women’s Gift. There will be some fine tuning of the races scheduled for this meeting next season to reduce the length of the day’s racing and to address the lack of entries in the Open mile caused by too many other options.

PLAYFORD – 28 November 2004NAP Oval at Elizabeth hosted the Playford Gift Carnival once again, with Chris Burckhardt taking out the feature race over 120m. Andrew Steele gave an indication of what was to come with a victory over 70m, while Shane Solly made an impressive debut in the 70m Under 20s race. As it is vital that a presence is maintained in the northern suburbs, this fixture will remain an important part of the League’s season. With the implementation of improved lighting facilities at the Oval in 2005, it is hoped that this will become a night meeting in future.

MT GAMBIER – 4 December 2004The 2004 Mt Gambier Gift Carnival helped to celebrate the 50 th birthday of the City of Mt Gambier, with an increased number of runners from Queensland, Victoria and South Australia travelling long distances to compete on one of the best grass tracks in the

country. The 2004 Mt Gambier Gift proved to be an excellent form guide to the Bay Sheffield, with Andrew Steele dominating a high-class field. Katherine Robb continued her sparkling form, while Clay Watkins, Matthew Cousins and Gregor Dingwall won sashes before later going on to win major races in the League’s season. Local Cameron Maxwell, son of Gift organiser Steve, was a popular winner of the 400m Novice. A request from meeting organisers to change the 550m Open and Women races to 400m has been granted for next season. The League looks forward to seeing the continued strong growth of this event which has quickly established itself as the major lead up to the Bay Sheffield Carnival.

COLLEY RESERVE MORT DALY MEETING – 12 December 2004The League’s return to Colley Reserve for the first time in over three years was greeted warmly by runners, officials, coaches and supporters. The traditional pre-Bay Sheffield Carnival at Colley Reserve once again gave everyone a dress rehearsal for what was to come at the end of the month. Highlights of the day included Leon Burckhardt’s first Gift sash in seven years, a third sash in the season for Katherine Robb and Kym Morgan’s classy victory from the backmark in the 1600m Open.

PLYMPTON – 19 December 2004Plympton’s reputation for being the best form guide for all Bay Sheffield races was kept intact, with Andrew Steele, Brad Schutz and Stephen Obst all collecting Plympton sashes before going on to taste success at Colley Reserve. In other results Katherine Robb won the Women’s Gift again, Kym Morgan prevailed in another Open middle distance race and Duncan Tippins collected a further Open Gift final. In the final races for the day, Paige Graham and Morgan Coull were memorable winners over 400 metres. It has already been promised that the efforts of Ron Moyle and the Plympton Football Club will continue next season to ensure this popular meeting once again proceeds.

BAY SHEFFIELD – 27/28 December 2004Colley Reserve, long known as the home of the Bay Sheffield, once again played host to the 118th running of the Bay Sheffield, with the return after a 3 year absence turning out to be a spectacular success. With the SA Athletic League in control of its season highlight and with significant support from the City of Holdfast Bay, SA Great and a host of sponsors including Coopers and Phil McMahon Real Estate, the future of this great sporting event looks assured. The number of women nominating was at a record high, with a new race over the mile proving a hit and winners-only Women’s Gift semi-finals introduced for the first time. Memorable victories by Andrew Steele and Amanda Watts in the 120m Gift finals were complemented by other high class running over the two days. The Bay Sheffield committee, which reports to the SA Athletic League Management Committee, will be hard at work in upcoming months to ensure the 2005 Bay Sheffield Carnival works towards maintaining the high standard set in 2004.

RICHMOND – 16 January 2005The Western Districts Athletics Club put its hand up to run its own meeting once again, allowing runners to get back into competition soon after the Bay Sheffield Carnival and in the lead up to the Camden Classic Carnival. The 300m Under 20s race, won by Clayton McCloud, continued to remember the life of young West Adelaide footballer Jake Watson. A new concept – the 550m Invitation – saw a number of top runners over this distance compete off scratch, with Chris Burckhardt just holding out Morgan Coull. As sponsorship opportunities appear limited, this meeting is unlikely to go ahead next season.

EDWARDSTOWN – 26 January 2005This athletics and cycling event on Australia Day has the support of the City of Marion, with both sports coming together to provide many hours of sporting entertainment. The

feature athletics races in 2005 were the 120m Cousin Jack Gift (won by Robbie James) and the 120m Cousin Jenny Women’s Gift (won by Kylie Atkins). The Cousin Jack and Cousin Jenny Gifts will more than likely return to the Yorke Peninsula next year and therefore these sprints will simply be known as the Edwardstown Australia Day Gifts in future.

CAMDEN CLASSIC – 6 February 2005The 26th City of West Torrens Camden Classic Carnival added two new races to its program – the 400m Paralympic Classic (won by Michael Roeger) and the 400m Women’s Classic Consolation (won by Amanda Watts). The feature 400m races were won by Matthew Cousins (the 6th Camden Athletics Club member to win the Camden Classic) and Cara White (the 1st Victorian to win the Women’s Classic). Some planned changes for the event next season are the inclusion of Little Athletics at the official break, the change of distance of the Umpires Race from 800m to 400m and an earlier start time.

PULTENEY – 20 February 2005An increase in competitors saw a mammoth increase in nominations for this meeting – 280 up from 163. McKinnon Parade Athletics Club member Gregor Dingwall took out the feature race (the McKinnon Mile) while Bradley Letton won the 70m and 200m double. Due to a large amount of scratchings in the 400m Open, it is likely the Open sprint races will be reduced from three to two next year. Furthermore, as it is hoped that Pulteney School will become more involved in future, a later date is proposed.

LOXTON – 26 February 2005The Nippys Loxton Gift Carnival demonstrated why it was awarded last season’s AAC National Event of the Year as it staged another superb meeting under lights at Loxton Oval, highlighted by quality racing with strong public support from over 3000 locals enjoying the action alongside the Mardi-Gras festivities. Athlete of the Carnival was awarded to Amy Robb who incredibly repeated the same 120m and 300m Women’s double that her sister Katherine had taken out last year. The inaugural 50m Sprint Skins Invitation, which pitted some of the League’s best male and female athletes against each other in a series of short sprints, saw a dream result for organisers, with 2004 Bay Sheffield feature sprint winners Andrew Steele and Amanda Watts surviving to be the final two contestants. Steele, who had narrowly missed the Nippys Loxton Gift final as backmarker, was ultimately successful. Youngster Robbie James won his biggest race in his short career to date, with a victory in the rich 120m Nippys Loxton Gift. The Nippys Loxton Gift Calcutta Dinner on the Friday night was a big hit and will remain a part of the weekend’s festivities.

GLENELG – 11 March 2005The Brighton Athletic Club and the Glenelg Football Club hosted this meeting at Glenelg Oval under lights, with improving young runner Jarrad Dartnall successful in his first Gift win. Former Stawell 400m winner Alex Burr won the Women’s Gift, while a change from 550m to 400m for Open runners was well received. It is possible that this meeting may focus on the women’s races next season to reward the women for increased nominations this season.

FLAGSTAFF – 18 March 2005A change in venue and date for this meeting was brought about by a clash with the Clipsal 500 and the state of the Flagstaff Oval track. As a result, Camden Oval under lights was the scene for the season finale, with Duncan Tippins winning the final SA Gift run of his career. Hayden Cook produced a marvellous performance to win the $1000 first prize of the 550m Open despite coming back 8 metres in his handicap after winning the Bay

Sheffield 550m Open final. The Flagstaff Athletics Club is hoping to host its 11 th annual Carnival back at its home track next season.

Planning for the 2005/2006 Season is well underway and we look forward to maintaining a high standard for all runners to enjoy. Due to feedback from Over 35 and Women runners and an increase in their numbers, the combined distance races will be replaced by separate races for these categories. New meetings at Kadina and Tea Tree Gully are also planned.

Well done to all organising clubs and sponsors (including the Mort Daly Running Foundation) for their support of all SA Athletic League Carnivals last season and we trust they will continue their vital involvement in the future.

COLIN ROWSTONProgramming Committee Chairperson

FEMALE ATHLETES’ REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORTIn my seventh year of running with the SA Athletic League and third year as the Women’s Representative, I have nothing but positive comments to say about the women’s competition.

The women’s running was an absolute highlight of the 2004/2005 athletics season. The increase in registrations of women was noticeable in all meets conducted over the season. Comparing the number of nominations for this season to the 2003/2004 season, in women only events there was an increase of 391 nominations. This is an outstanding result and just demonstrates the increased competition and strength of the female contingent of the League.

The increase in distance races for women has contributed greatly to the increase in female athletes. Out of the 15 SAAL meets conducted during the season, 11 of those had a women’s race with a distance of over 550m. This is compared to 6 for the previous season. Although this year the majority of the women that ran had to run with the over 35s athletes, the strength of the distance runners from females this year has ensured that they get their own race for the next season to come.

Another thing that came out of having an increased number of runners in the women’s ranks was the running of semi-finals. Not only does this allow some of the runners to have two runs when previously they would only get one, it increases the quality of the finals and ensures that only the best runners on that day are competing in the final. This in turn will make the women’s running more exciting and enjoyable to watch.

My highlight this year was definitely having the Bay Sheffield back at Colley Reserve. The event is now better than ever before and to see Amanda Watts, who is a quality athlete and who has been running with the League for a long time, win the Women’s 120m was fantastic.

The season would not have been the season it was if it was not for the President Brendan Golden. He has put so much of his time and effort into making this season one to remember and I thank him for that. Colin Rowston and Cathy Thurston also work tirelessly to make things go smoothly and a huge thank you goes to them also. Lastly I would also like to thank all the girls that have run this year, your support for the League has been great so keep up the good work.

I have no doubt that the women’s running in the next few years will be a great force and I know there will be good things to come for us all.

KATE FENECHFemale Athletes’ Representative

OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORTThe South Australian Athletic League as a whole has done a fantastic job of returningthe Bay Sheffield to its rightful home. What a homecoming it was, with all the creditgoing to the athletes, local and interstate for the standard of competition on showacross the total program.

The League's Officials can be justifiably proud of their efforts in maintaining a highlevel of loyalty over what has been a difficult 4 years. This year sees a few retirees and the League is keen to see other people take a step up and fill some of the vacancies.

On behalf of all SA Athletic League officials, I extend again a sincere message of thanks to both the Mt Gambier and Loxton communities for the support and hospitality shown atthe time of their carnivals.

A special mention to John and Barb Barker for equipment and track set up assistanceat the Bay and other meets, Ward Swansson for video operation and well done toColin Jones who turns 80 this year.

Also a note of appreciation for a job well done to Craig McMaster who is leaving therecorder position. Craig was responsible for making the event results available forposting after each meeting which was of benefit to the Handicappers as well as theathletes.

On behalf of the Chief Officials, Brian Hart, Phil Daws and Graeme O'Dea, I thankall those who officiated and assisted at meetings and commend all the participatingathletes (including interstate) for what was a standout season in terms ofcompetition.  A big thank you to both Robbie Ziersch for his input to both the Handicappingand track set up, and to Cathy Thurston for dealing with the accommodation, absentees, uniforms and hundreds of other items that make us Officials look organised.

Brian Hart, along with Brenda, Colin, Charlie and new starter Anton, would like to thank the athletes for their respect and friendship. This season has been a joy for them to start especially to see the new runners competing. The starters would in particular also like to thank Mary Breward (Scratching Steward), Liberato Icolaro (Computer Timekeeper) and Bill Sutton (who supplied starting bullets from Victoria) for assisting their duties. TREVOR MAYOfficials’ Representative

MALE ATHLETES’ REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORTThe South Australian Athletic League has continued to move forward during the 2004-2005 season. The most obvious contributing factor was the return to Glenelg for the running of the Bay Sheffield, with the Pre-Bay meet also being held on the Colley Reserve. However, it is easy to focus on the “flagship” without noticing the hard work put into all of the meets of the year. It has been the willingness of the larger clubs within the SA Athletic League to coordinate and host meets that has proven to be the strength of our sport in recent years. From experience I realise the depth of commitment required to coordinate such a function and commend all those who take on the task.

As the representative of the male athletes I was called upon very rarely to bring forward issues at a committee level. One can assume one of two things. Either the League is functioning to everyone’s satisfaction, and I believe this to be the case, or there is a general apathy about seeking improvement through appropriate channels. Having perused the website I know that concerns are often aired. Many of these are pointless “whinges” or statements made simply to draw a response, but some, if offered in an appropriate format would make for useful discussion at committee level. I encourage all to critically analyse the workings of the League, putting aside personal grudges, and seek to improve the sport through constructive questioning of process. Not all can be satisfied on all issues, but often the discussion will bring about changes for the better.

I thank Brendan Golden, Colin Rowston, Cathy Thurston and the officials for their tireless work in the promotion of our sport and look forward to being involved for many years to come.

MARK BARNETTMale Athletes’ Representative

COACHES’ REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

It is time to review another successful season with the League. The highlight was of course the return of our premier race carnival to Colley Reserve. It was a huge success for all involved and almost felt like it had never left Glenelg. The only downside is the lack of car parking which is something we are just going to have to learn to deal with, for it is mostly out of the Leagues hands. Judging from the feedback I received and the increased number of nominations, athletes and registered coaches, it was again a positive and successful season. Particularly pleasing was the large numbers of female competitors this season and the continuing emergence of new athletes to our sport.

The country meets of Mt Gambier and Loxton continue to grow into major carnivals with good prize money, competitive races and a few stories. Another country meet will be added next season at Kadina and hopefully this will be just as successful, especially with the Cousin Jack returning to the Copper Triangle. It has also been pleasing to see a growth in the number of meetings hosted by clubs over the past few seasons. It is not an easy task to host a race meet, searching for prize money, preparing or even finding a venue, so thankyou to all the clubs / stables that hosted meets this year.

I was very pleased to see a little more focus on women’s races and the increase in numbers for the Under 20 races. The more competitors per event only make for a better race and spectacle. We will see separate distance races for women and Over 35 in the next season due to the increased numbers last season. This can only occur if the numbers warrant it, so ladies and vets keep the numbers up and it will continue. It was also very pleasing to see so many new faces in the finals and on the dais proving that competition is well and truly alive.

I have once again enjoyed this season as a coach, spectator and committee member. The camaraderie and good sportsmanship displayed by everyone is ever apparent and there were very few issues brought forward by coaches. I can therefore assume that everyone was happy or just chose to give me an easy ride. I would like to thank all the coaches for your continued support and dedication to our sport. It is a job (obsession) of late nights, weekends and often with little reward but we do it because of a passion that others do not understand. Thankyou also to all the officials who do a wonderful job every weekend and are surely the best in the nation. A special thankyou must also go to the committee members who give up their time to make sure the League continues to be a strong and healthy sport. We are fortunate to have a great leadership at the moment in Brendan, Colin and Cathy. These three people give a huge amount of their time and energy which is steering our sport to very healthy future.

It is with some regret that I cannot continue in this role due to my ever increasing work and coaching commitments. I hope that in my short time as Coaches Rep, I have made some impact in helping to get the type of events and program that have been requested. There are new meets and events next season so I hope it is a successful 2005/2006 for everyone. Remember that through communication and participation the events will continue to be supported by the League. Good luck to all athletes and coaches for the upcoming season (just get through that winter first) and I look forward to seeing everyone out there on the track.

STEPHEN BUTLERCoaches’ Representative

LIFE MEMBERS

1971 H Hancock*1972 G G Adams1976 C Shea*1979 M D Daly Snr*1979 K Patching1980 E W Neil*1981 E Holder*1981 D Horstler*1981 P C Wilson*1982 R K Kitto1983 K B L Brown*1983 L O'Donoghue*1987 B L Wilson1988 L J Brown1988 P R Young1989 L G Caspers1990 M P Wilson1992 F T McHugh1992 M J Karutz1993 T S R Cotton1994 R T Freeland1994 B C Hart1995 R E Thompson1995 K Aiston1998 R H Gray1998 A J Green1999 P Daws2001 T J May2003 R Ziersch2003 J Barker2004 G Hancock2005 G Thompson

*Deceased

2004/2005 MEMBERS

Aiello GaetanoApostolou MichelleAshman ClaireAtkins KylieAustin RegBarber DavidBarker BarbaraBarnett MarkBarry TerryBarry MorganBateman KarenBateman ToddBeck AndrewBednall RichardBertelsmeier MichaelBeveridge MarkBishop AdamBlieschke JeremyBoase GrahamBosch PJBoult DianneBowie WilliamBrattoli PaulBrennan PeterBreward MaryBrown PaulBrown AndrewBruce DuncanBrus BobBryant WarwickBuckler MichaelBurbidge JennaBurckhardt ChrisBurckhardt LeonBurckhardt MichelleBurnside CoreyBurr AlexBurt SamuelButler StephenCalvert PhilCamilleri AndrewCartwright BrettCaskey AmyChandler AndrewChehade AminChehade JackieCheney DarcyChristinat DamarisCleary AdamClements Christy

Cleveland AshleyCochrane JamesCook RhettCook HaydenCoull MorganCousins MatthewCreasey JonathanCryer SamuelCumming DanielDartnall TamaraDartnall JarradDavidson StephanieDeBellis DavidDenehy GregDickenson BillDidyk AdamDidyk KristianDiercks MargDiercks TonyDimitrak ChrisDingle GreggDingwall GregorDobo IstranDonnelly NikkiDonnelly AlbyDubois TimothyDunn AbbeyDuykers SimonElliott JaneEmmins BlakeEngland RyanEnglish KenEvans SophieEvans CourtneyFallon MatthewFarrows MarnieFaulkner MarkFenech KateFenech JoanneFenech CharlieFenech CarmenFerber MatthewFerber GaryFerber KellyFerrante LioFisher MattFlesfadar DanielFountain CraigFountain PatFountain Wally

French JohnFuller NeilGallagher TerryGarreffa StevenGeers SebastianGolden BrendanGraham PaigeGregor BenGrimwade ShaneGross DavidGrubb DavidHamilton BrianHams CraigHancock TysonHancock RyanHane MichaelHarrison AaronHarrison BradHarrison KaneHassell TomHedges MeganHeinicke DamianHenderson PaulHenry JohnHicks DylanHildyard LukeHill EmmaHoare NathanHockings BenHodge StevenHooper RyanHortin DarylHowson MarkHume LeanneHutton SteveIcolaro LiberatoJaensch ChelseaJames RobbieJamieson BradJanko JoJelfs StephenJervis-Bardy JakeJones ColinJose MatthewJoyce AmandaKaidonis GeorgiaKaidonis SophiaKelly EliciaKemp JessicaKennedy Zoe

Kerley AshleighKillmier RobertKoschade BenKotyla AntheaKovarevic RenaeLange MarkLee KevinLeRay JohnLetton BradleyLetton KimLetton DennisLetton HelenLloyd MelissaLodge PaulaLong-Scafidi WallaceLowe KevinMalycha PaulMandalovic KateMangos NickMassey-Harvey JordanMateu WillMattingly ChrisMaxwell CameronMcAuliffe TerryMcAvaney BruceMcCann ChrisMcCarthur ShananMcCloud ClaytonMcCullough MelindaMcMahon AaronMcMahon RichardMcMaster PeterMcMaster CraigMcMaster SusanMeekins KirstyMillard DanielMillard DaleMiller StanMiller KymMolyneux PaulMoore ErinMoran KarenMorgan KymMorgan PaulMorris RickyMoss ShaneMudge JaneMugford ToddMules RayMurphy ElizabethMyatt Lee

Nabhan AnwarNightingale LouiseNissen AnthonyNitschke MichaelNoble JasonNoble NitaNoblet JamesNoblet PeterNorthway MatthewObst StephenO'Connor AnthonyO'Dea GraemeOdgers PhoebeOlifent SimonOpenshaw YasminO'Riley MegganOrmrod MarkOsborne LeahOwen TonyPalmer DavidPaparella KarenPatterson DavidPearl BrendaPenglis Anne MariePerry JackPotts KenPounsett AdrianPowell DavidReddaway IanRicketts ColinRidgwell MarkRobb KatherineRobb AmyRoberts LisaRoberts DeborahRoberts RyanRoe AndrewRose DavidRowston ColinSamarzia RyanSandercock MichaelSawyer-Collins BrookeSboro MarioSboro ClaudioSchreier TobySchultz AndrewSchuster SelinaSchutz BradScott RussellSheehy KeithSheffield Richard

Sheppard SueSimmons MatthewSimons MarkSims JarrodSinor AlexandraSlayman SaraSloan MatthewSmith LindenSmith ColleenSmith RhiannonSmith PaulSmith GavinSolly ShaneSparrow AndreaSperling AlanStaehr EmilieSteele AndrewSteinert PirreneeStewart AdamStrutton GeoffSutton BillSwansson WardSymons GregSymons TonyTaormina TristanTaylor SallyTaylor DustynThiel StephanThiele ShaneThomas HalThomas NeilThompson SimonThomson PaulaThomson MarkThurston CathyTippins DeborahTippins DuncanTippins BernieTohl DamianTravers DavidTremaine MichelleTrewartha CraigTroiano GeoffTurley ClaireTurner Lee-AnnTurner JohnUduma Idikavan Bavel AntonVersace LukeViney LynetteViney HelenVlachos Chris

Wanstall SianWard BrendonWatkins ClayWatts AmandaWebb KatrinaWhite PaigeWhitehorn Brian

Wilby KimberleyWilczek DavidWilliams RichardWilson StevenWilson DarrenWilson TimWitty Brian

Wood DarrellWright ThomasWright BenYoung PaulZeuner GaryZeuner Cheryl

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2004/2005 SPONSORS

HALLETT COVE (17/10/04)Mort Daly Running FoundationCity of Marion

FLINDERS (31/10/04)Flinders Athletic ClubBrock Harcourts Galpin Engler Bruins and DempseyMort Daly Running FoundationMancorp Property Investors and DevelopersWarwick Fabrics

REYNELLA (14/11/04)City of OnkaparingaE-BancLions Club of NoarlungaMort Daly Running FoundationFitness WarehouseHappy Valley Newsagent

PLAYFORD (28/11/04)City of PlayfordCasserly and Mitchell Real EstateMort Daly Running FoundationNorth East IsuzuDependable Thrifty Link HardwareTundarri Sales and ServiceWhelan Kartaway Mini SkipsSerco Adelaide Buses

MT GAMBIER (04/12/04)Charlies Diner Northcare PhysioGalpin, Engler, Bruins and Dempsey BaxterVersace Home Builders/Henry Post Jewellers Green Triangle RecyclersSouth West Freight Fimmells First NationalWilson Security KC and MR Boult Logging ContractorsVan Schaiks Biogrow and Organic Soils Subway Mt GambierMcDonalds – Mt Gambier Cary Jennings Auto ElectricalMt Gambier RSL Somerfields CarpetsTrident Tyres B and T Smith Bros. General BuildersKimberly Clark Australia Mt Gambier Moteliers AssociationMt Gambier Chiropractic Centre K and S FreightersBakers Delight Bruhn Building StoneKraft of Mt Gambier Harvey World TravelLittle Athletics Mt Gambier Hotondo HomesMt Gambier Spring Water Keatley LivestockFidler and Webb Millard MechanicalMitre 10 Gateway Hardware B Ray CabinetsThe Tile Place Gambier Tile CentreCarlin and Gazzard SquashbrookChemdry Bucik TyrePower

Young’s The Mans Shop Neale and NultyMargaret St Meats Cocky’s AutoGambier Print Mobil Thru-WayVansittart Deli Noel Barr ToyotaMt Gambier Safety Supplies M S Hein and SonsTimber Tech Engineering Stuckey ElectricalAndrew Zobel Home Loans Mt Gambier PlasterersSE Funeral Services South East LaundryPhil and Rhonda Versace OK Pie ShopDonehues Leisure AT and MT Bruhn Sheetmetal

COLLEY RESERVE (12/12/04)Mort Daly Running Foundation

PLYMPTON (19/12/04)BSGCarlton United BreweryForbes NewsagencyMorphett Arms HotelMort Daly Running FoundationPlympton Sports and Recreation ClubSouthern Cross MeatsGreenbank’s Adelaide Recycling DepotSA LeisureSouth Plympton Bakehouse

COOPERS BAY SHEFFIELD(27 and 28/12/04)Coopers BreweryCity of Holdfast BayPhil McMahon Real EstateChannel 10Coca ColaSouth Australian Tourism CommissionVirgin BlueMutual CommunityJetty Road TradersHoldfast Shores ConsortiumPhillips FoxComfort Inn Haven MarinaSA GreatBe ActiveMessenger Press10th Australian Masters GamesAthletics SASA Little Athletics AssociationRadio 5AAHamilton HoldenOffice for Recreation and Sport

RICHMOND (16/1/05)Western Districts Athletic ClubL and S WatsonMalcolm Allen

Mort Daly Running Foundation

EDWARDSTOWN (26/1/05)Mort Daly Running FoundationCity of MarionK KittoEndura Sports Nutrition

CAMDEN CLASSIC (6/2/05)City of West TorrensCoopers Brewery LtdAFC AccountingBaker Young StockbrokersBank SABlue Gum EmbroideryBroadway IGAEureka TavernGT ProduceHennig and CoTravelscene - Boomerang TravelChehade BrothersCoca ColaMort Daly Running FoundationSalmatFoxy FibresPHOS Camden Football ClubHoldfast HotelMcAvaney and CoSammys on the MarinaSANFL Umpires AssociationSANFL SealinkZestNumerous Camden Classic Supporters

McKINNON/PULTENEY (20/2/05)Carrickalinga Cove ApartmentsKaligro WinesZapata’s Mexican RestaurantJoggers WorldFred A Deleo Orthopedic FootwearSportspowerCavan HotelMort Daly Running Foundation

LOXTON (26/2/05)NippysBig River SupermarketsBP FruitLoxton Hygienic MeatsUnited Utilities AustraliaCopyCommOffice National RiverlandTorambre Wines

Coca ColaLoxton HotelLoxton IrrigationLoxton Waikerie CouncilKearney Financial ServicesRiverland FordRiverland Premier Sports AsicsBanrock StationAngovesKingston Estate wines

GLENELG (11/3/05)Brighton Athletic ClubSouth Australian Jockey ClubGlenelg Discount TyresGlenelg Football ClubBeach HutsMort Daly Running FoundationPhil McMahon Real EstateSportsmed

FLAGSTAFF HILL (18/3/05)Hanson Construction MaterialsMHM GroupCharlesworth NutsChemmart – Flagstaff HillColonnades NewsagenciesCopyworldBerri LtdRoof SealPeter Mirana AgenciesCove ContractorsRadiators Australia (SA) Pty LtdBlue Gum EmbroideryNoarlunga PhysiotherapySouthwick GoodyearJackson Auto RepairsDouble J PhotographicsCellarbrations Liquor Flagstaff HillJacksons Auto Repairs – Somerton ParkMort Daly Running FoundationDr Peter NobletDebbie RobertsAndrew SteeleSam LeRayAlex BurrKylie AtkinsMcMaster FamilyKirsty Meekins