CLUB IQ May2017 | Page 24

the best thing that came out of it was the overwhelming support of our members and the local community including Maroubra Police and Randwick City Council ensuring the Club survived the impact of the fire. Major industry changes effecting the Club were the introduction of RBT, Hotels getting poker machines and the battle to stop the poker machine tax increase in 1997. I started out in the industry as a casual steward picking up glasses and cleaning ashtrays in 1965, and if there was one piece of advice I give to any coming manager it would be to listen when people are helping you and observe what is happening. Outside of clubland I enjoy reading, riding motor bikes and watching TV (but not at the same time!) A couple of stand out moments during the 40 plus years of working in the Club Industry have been meeting some fantastic people who have always been helpful. Also visiting the USA in 1981 with Bruce Patterson and Fred Fayers was a real highlight. IQ 24 Terry Kaperonis 46 years – Camden RSL Club Derek Ohlston 42 years – Club Jervis Bay Allan Peter 7 Years Peter Redding 40 years Maroubra Seals SPOTLIGHT ON TERRY KAPERONIS CEO Camden RSL 46 years with CMAA The two real standout moments during my 40 plus years working in the club industry was one, being the first sec/manager ever being appointed to the Camden RSL (the position is now called CEO) and two, saving the club from amalgamation. The best advice I could offer is to remind any upcoming managers that the biggest asset a manager has is the staff. Therefore, staff require leadership not dictatorship. I started out like many in the industry picking up glasses, wiping tables, cleaning ashtrays and straitening the chairs. SPOTLIGHT ON RICHARD SEDDON Purchasing Manager, Smithfield RSL 52 years with the CMAA William Campbell 47 years – Rockdale RSL Gerard McMillan 41 Year – Singleton Diggers The most important advice that I can convey to upcoming Managers is remember that the Club belongs to the members and it’s important to ensure that you continue your membership with the CMAA as you never know when there could be changes within the Club that could affect you personally. With the CMAA you are assured of protection. When asked a little about myself and my hobbies and interests outside of Club-land, my answer is really that I have no hobbies or interests. My whole life revolves around the Club, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I will never get sick of it, every day is different and I realise how lucky I am to be part of a great industry. We would like to acknowledge the following CMAA members who have reached over 40 years of membership. Outside of work I am an avid Rabbitoh supporter, I bleed red and green. I also enjoy weekend getaways to my caravan which is on a permanent Site at east beach in Kiama. Richard Seddon 43 years –Smithfield RSL John Turnbull 42 years - Liverpool Catholic Club Peter Ward 42 years - Sherwood Services Club