A brilliant event - that is the only way you can sum up this years WasteMINZ conference. If you did not attend you definitely missed out as you have probably already heard from those who attended.

The number of attendees exceeded expectations, topping 280. The social events were so popular that they sold out and we will obviously need to plan for bigger venues for next year. Those who stayed on after the conference to sample some of the local tourist attractions had fabulous weather and I can vouch for the Dart River jet boating, Shotover River white water rafting and hot air ballooning as all being very worthwhile trips. Along with shopping in Arrowtown I certainly did my part in helping to support the local economy!!

As usual with an event of this size there is always a long list of people who assisted in making the event such a success, from the 'organisers', the sponsors, the trade exhibitors, the facilitators, the presenters through to all of the registrants who attended.

I also reported on the positive financial result for the year. A recommendation from the Board that a 11 special purpose" reserve fund of $100,000 be established with any expenditure of this fund having to be approved/ratified at an AGM or special general meeting of WasteMINZ was, approved. Some discussion took place on the appropriate level of this reserve and the potential use that this money could be put to and this will be reviewed the Board over the next few months.

On behalf of the WasteMINZ Board I would like to wish you all a great Christmas and we look forward to your continued support in the new year.

Allan