Delivering the lifesaving and member services involves substantial annual expense which is predominantly met by funds from Corporate Partners, Grants and the Surf Life Saving Supporters Clubs.
As an auxiliary to the Surf Club, Supporters Clubs play a crucial role in funding essential equipment, training programs, and rescue operations. Through the Supporters clubs fundraising efforts, it assists in empowering our clubs with the resources they need to conduct essential lifesaving operations.
Supporters Clubs Constitution
The Supporters Club Constitution outlines information on the fundamental principles of the Supporters Club. This is a legislative requirement of all Supporters Clubs who are incorporated entities in their own right.
Supporters Club Objects
The objects for Supporters Clubs are outlined the constitution and outline the Supporters Club purpose is with the Surf Life Saving Club.
Examples of objects are:
- To conduct fund raising activities on behalf of (Club Name) Surf Life Saving Club Inc.
- To promote, foster, support and encourage the aims and objects of (Club Name) Surf Life Saving Club Inc. and all matters pertaining thereto.
- To provide for members and for members’ guests a sporting club with all the usual facilities of a club.
- In furtherance of the objectives of the Association, to apply for and obtain and hold a Registered Club Licence or any other licence or licences or permits under the Liquor Act, Gaming Act and Food Act of Queensland and Law of any other Act or Laws for the time being operative.
- In furtherance of the objects to obtain and hold any licence or permission necessary for and to carry on the business of restaurant/café keepers and/or sellers of all kind of goods, provisions etc. used by or desired by members.
Board of Directors Code of Conduct
Members of Management Committee in Queensland Clubs have specific corporate governance obligations and duties that stem from relevant laws, the Supporter Club’s Constitution/Rules, as well as established codes, policies, guidelines, and community norms.
Their responsibility includes collaborating harmoniously with all stakeholders, which encompasses both the Supporter club’s members and the Club Manager. The Club Manager, being a qualified industry professional, offers advice regarding the club’s operations for the consideration of the Management Committee.
The Management Committee or Board of Directors, when being on-boarded and annually, are to complete a code of conduct.
| Club Tip A code of conduct is a set of rules, guidelines, principles, or ethical standards that outline expected behaviour and interactions within a organisation, profession, or community. It serves as a framework to establish and promote appropriate and ethical conduct among individuals or members of that group. |
For a Code of Conduct template email ethicalstandards@lifesaving.com.au
| Club Tip Ensure that the code of conduct does not contradict any of the Supporters Club/Surf Lifesaving Clubs constitution, regulations/ bylaws and policies. Ensure you update to align with the Supporters Clubs requirements. |
Meetings of the Supporters Club & Surf Club
The relationship between Supporters and Surf Club is a key to ensuring the success of both entities.
Supporters Clubs and Surf Club Board/Committees should meet at least annually, to discuss a range of topics which may include, but are not limited to:
- Financials
- Memberships
- Operations
- Risks
- Facilities / Building
- Sub Lease/Surplus Funds Agreement
These meetings don’t need to be exhaustive, and a clear concise agenda should be drafted and circulated prior to ensure all attendees are aware of the topics for discussion.
Supporters Club & Surf Club Boards/ Management Committee
Annual review for both the Supporters Club and the Club Management Committee is essential for the effective and compliant functioning of the Surf Life Saving Queensland. It ensures members stay informed about legal requirements, financial management, mission alignment, and risk management.
It also fosters communication, collaboration, and operational efficiency while promoting a culture of continual improvement to adapt to the evolving landscape of surf life saving.
| Club Tip Add the specific dates to your calendar to ensure so you can ensure the review is prepared in specific timeframes. |
Management/ Other Requirements
The Supporters Club is in most cases managed by a General Manager, in conjunction with the Supporters Committee, all of who are members of our Life Saving Club or Supporters Club.
Some other key requirements for Supporters clubs are:
- To provide services and products that exceed our members’ and guests’ expectations;
- To maintain and to continue to develop the Supporters Club/Function Centre;
- To ensure the strong support of our members through the complete fulfilment of their service requirements;
- To satisfy the commitment of our members by the expansion of turnover and profits while maintaining our standards;
- To provide secure employment and develop every employee to their full potential through training, development & opportunity
- To maintain a reputable name for the venue to ensure future patronage.
Funds to the Club
One of the primary objectives of Supporters Clubs is to reinvest the proceeds generated into the Surf Life Saving Club, thereby facilitating the support of a diverse range of activities.
This information can be found in the Supporters Club constitution or if you are still unsure, please contact the supporters club administrator who will seek approval from the relevant personal to provide this information.
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