The now infamous words 'in these unprecedented times' aptly describe the last 5-6 months during which our club has reinvented itself, both online and with a 'different' clubhouse reopening on 29 June.
Many members have worked tirelessly so our members could stay connected and play bridge. Who could have imagined six months ago how active Peninsula players would become in online pairs and teams tournaments?
At the same time investigations were made about how and when the club could reopen and comply with the relevant Public Health Orders - and then appropriate procedures were developed and implemented. The clubhouse may not be the same as pre-COVID-19, but it's open, and we are cautiously moving forward under the mantra 'Safe Bridge=Great Bridge'.
Less visibly, work has continued on the design of our new clubhouse as part of the proposed Warriewood Valley Community Centre which will replace the Nelson Heather Centre - and on suitable temporary premises while the rebuild occurs.
The normal administration of the club has also continued - including coping with the Federal Government's welcome Job Keeper and Cash Flow support schemes, with setting up hosting and administration arrangements for our online bridge program and significant training of volunteers in directing and other roles both online and in a COVID-Safe clubhouse.
Financially, we have managed to keep our heads above water despite sharply reduced playing revenues..
How did all this happen you ask? - VOLUNTEERS, THAT'S HOW!
So many people contributed above and beyond normal expectations. Reinventing themselves and discovering new ways of contributing and doing things to the benefit of us all.
And importantly from a club financial viewpoint, they have done this during this period of adjustment without any expectation of receiving even the small honorariums we used to offer our key volunteers such as directors, teachers and dealers. At this point none of our volunteers receive any free game or other honorariums.
For this we would like to ask you all to join us in thanking any club volunteer you see. Their help has a huge impact!
Thank you for ensuring the Club survives and continues to offer our bridge community a safe place to enjoy our great game.
