Greetings and welcome to our June newsletter. We have some important updates to share with you, including the exciting news that entries are now open for our 2023 ASSG Awards. Full details are below, including categories and updates on the judging process.

For me, the biggest news I have to share with members is my decision that I won’t be nominating for President at our next AGM (the end of the year). It’s not time yet for me to review some of the changes and challenges the Guild has seen over the eight years I have been in this role, but I would like to explain why I have come to this decision.

Eight years is a long time, but it’s not the biggest factor for me. Since our last AGM we have seen new committee members and state representatives come on board. In fact, for the first time, we now have representatives in every state. The result of this is new energy and new activity, and I’m sure that many of you have noticed that. So, I believe it is well and truly time for new leadership as well, and that the success of the Guild going forward will be ensured by the guidance of somebody with a new perspective.

I’m announcing this decision now to give members ample time to consider who would be the best fit for this important role. At our annual awards, I have frequently put the call out for people to support the Guild by taking an active role on the committee or sub-committees. Now, I am putting out the same call for somebody to take on the role of President. As well, I want to make it clear that I won’t be a backup. If nobody takes the role, the office will be vacant. But I am confident that the membership will select the right person, somebody who can take the Guild to new places as we continue to grow and diversify. I genuinely look forward to watching that unfold.

If you would like to know what is involved in the role, please feel free to email me at president@assg.org.au

Thank you for your ongoing support and participation in the Guild.

Steve Murphy
ASSG President