Dear Christchurch Skålleagues, 

It is 27 January and I already feel like I need a break! Who is with me? We know it is going to be a big year, with big challenges……so please remember we are there to support you. Skål is all about doing business amongst friends, so remember to use it.

• Create business relationships with our members, not only in Christchurch but throughout New Zealand

• Support each other – this could be when you see one of our members having a tough time or when you need to bounce an idea off an industry person, but need an external opinion

• Increase your network of connections.  If you are travelling around the country or world you are welcome at any Skål Club event – this is where business connections are made.  We have some upcoming events listed below, but also please just contact me if you would like an introduction.

• Remember the Skål International Database – update your profile and use it for connecting with potential clients or suppliers.

 
For me it is going to be a big Skål year. We are awaiting the updated RFP for the Skål World Congress 2025, which we plan to bid for.  Please be rest assured this will have serious consideration and feasibility studies completed prior to us bidding to ensure we as the Club can cover the underwriting of this financially. 
 
I will also be busy with my role as Chair of the Membership Portfolio 2023, working alongside Vice President Denise Scrafton.  After being on the committee last year I am up for the challenge with the support of a small committee scattered throughout the world…..so the joy of 2am zooms starts again!
 
As we are all aware membership is our lifeline and it is essential we all work together to retain membership.
 
Denise and I have worked through some project ideas, being:

1. Retention of members

2. Succession planning within clubs and committees

3. Possibility of satellite clubs attached to a “main club”

4. Young Skål – with the Professionals membership being re-introduced (and succession planning)

5. Awareness of the Membership Development Fund

 
Naturally I would like us to get the projects we completed last year finalised and in play with the clubs, these include:

1. Video completed for distribution (after Skål International feedback)

2. Toolbox for all clubs to access with up to date information

3. Tidy up of website information on membership

 
Finally I welcome you all to attend our AGM on Thursday 23 February at the Sudima Christchurch Airport.  After the success of our event with Hotel Council Aotearoa joining us, we will have a panel session as part of our luncheon.  This years theme will be how can we sustain being sustainable in our industry. 
Committee member Kate Blundell will be our facilitator, and we are delighted to have joining us:
Richard Hayman | Environmental Policy Advisor | Scenic Hotel Group
Maree Welgus | Regional General Manager South Island | HIND Management
Ross Steele | General Manager | Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre 
 
We welcome any questions on the day, or prior (please send through to skalchc@gmail.com)
 
Here’s to a successful, supportive and sustainable 2023 for us all.

Yours in Skål,
Victoria Wales
Christchurch President