By Gary Bourke

On the 18th September 2013 the Queensland Branch of the Association met at Wynnum Manly Leagues Club. It was the first meeting for some time and there was a good roll-up of 15 local members who attended.

Those attending initially networked over dinner before formally meeting in a room kindly provided by the Club. Gary Bourke briefed everyone on the name conflict that has been raised by RIA.

There was a general discussion about the progress of the Association. One very well received suggestion by Garry Carroll was to hold regular web meetings through the internet so that members residing outside the south-east Queensland area could also attend. The general consensus was that every second meeting should be web-based.

Long term member, Mick West, from Westaway Restorations, then made a presentation titled, ‘Where I came from’. Mick spoke passionately about his business and how he has turned an initial annual turnover of $80,000.00 into $2,000,000.00 each of past few years. It was pleasing to note that he attributed a great deal of his success to the contacts he has made through his Association membership. He pointed out that several of the National Suppliers that many of us now deal with got their initial data base of restorers from the Association.

Finally, the meeting closed with Roly Ruhle requested that Lex Moir be formally recognised for his contribution to the Branch. Lex presided over the Branch for some time but has recently had to vacate the role for personal reasons. His efforts have been outstanding and well appreciated by all the locals.