The Southern Area of the British Model Flying Association

Development of the Southern Area

After the inter club meeting at Middle wallop earlier in the year the message received by the Southern area committee was very clear, looking at the minutes of the meeting available on this web site you will see the conclusions reached by all. What was also encouraging was that so many clubs took the time to attend and were also very positive in there contribution to the meeting. It was obvious to all that we needed to plan our route for recovery and that we had to set objectives for achievements that would enable us to show progress towards resolving the issues identified. We should also recognize that to achieve all the identified objectives during 2008 was not possible, however we could start the process of improvement and there were targets that we could achieve. We have therefore reviewed and identified the key requirements for the future and tried to categorize these in a logical order that will encourage change and provide a positive platform for continued growth and improvements during this year and also 2009. The plan of campaign has to start with improved communication. This must be improved not only between member clubs and the Southern area committee but also between all member clubs in the area. Today you are starting to see the generation of a new web site designed to improve this specific requirement. It has not been easy to find a willing host to support us in this venture but with Peter Robinson on board you can expect to see this site grow to meet the needs of all. The next challenge is to make this site interactive so that clubs and area committee can work together to keep all informed of progress and capture new ideas. Peter is working on this aspect so you can expect notification shortly on how YOU can contribute. The aspect of financial support from central BMFA for some of our activities has been discussed in principle and we are working to encourage a solution to this issue. As we all know change takes time and to that end it is also important that we advertise in a timely manner future activities well in advance so that all member clubs have the opportunity to advertise and plan there support to ensure we capture the largest audience . This brings us on to the final mandate given at the Middle wallop meeting, that being we should organize another Southern area inter club meting before the year. One idea that is currently being discussed is that we should extend the timing of this meeting to provide the opportunity for members from BMFA head office to attend and provide information on whatever topic you the member would like - i.e.
Flying site protection
What action is currently being taken to protect our hobby in the future?
Aims of the Society
2.4 GHz - problems and guidance
What can the BMFA do for you - at central level?
Head office would be pleased to support this initiative as they see it as an ideal vehicle to get closer to the local community. This would require the event to run at least from lunchtime through to the evening, however it is possible we maybe also able to complete the day by holding the Annual general meeting for the Southern area committee in the evening and this would hopefully encourage greater participation from all.
One aspect that is also becoming apparent is that we need additional members to work with us and improve the available skill levels within the committee, whether it be communication skills, negotiation skills, organizational skills, reporting skills ect they will all be of benefit and help reduce the load on those currently trying to progress the development of change in our area. We all get great satisfaction in many ways from this hobby, it is also very satisfying to put something back for others to benefit from and committee work will introduce another aspect of this hobby that few realize exists. No matter how little or how much you can provide it will be welcomed and will only improve our chances of moving forward.

So the rest of this year is building foundations and improving communication so that we are all more informed on what's happening where and when. Also enabling you to be able to participate and have your say on what happens in your area.

Please feel free to review the plan, identify suggestions or issues and let us know your comments. Also would you support another end of year meeting at Middle Wallop, could you encourage more members to attend - could you contribute to this meeting - the forum is open so get in contact and let us know .

By means of preparing for the future I have also included some information on indoor activities that you may or may not be aware off - if you know what F3P stands for then you may be up to speed but if you don't then please take look as in Europe this event is becoming ever popular and growing every year - hope to meet soon