Mardi Gras 2010 candidate guide

Fourteen candidates are seeking election to the New Mardi Gras board this year. The organisation, which posted a $575K loss this financial year, will hold it’s annual general meeting at the NIDA Playhouse, 215 Anzac Pde, Kensington on August 21 from 1pm.

DAMON HARTLEY
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
Mo Awards, Pride, NMG Parade Working Group, many charities — various roles as chair, trustee, treasurer, production manager and general volunteer over the last 27 years. As a company secretary in a professional role.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
To ensure solid, cohesive and forward-thinking management is allowed to prosper unhindered by disruptive elements within the Board.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
Greater attention and efforts to attracting, and integrating, the next generation into our events and the company management.
My dream Mardi Gras? I’d love to see us close the bridge for our party and make a huge statement. If it’s good enough for a breakfast…

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Back into surplus with the 2011 season financially while ensuring that both the political and cultural aspects of our diverse community are promoted. The Parade still has importance and needs to be further focused with messages that make a difference to people’s lives.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
A vote for Damon Hartley is a vote for care, compassion and community and, as importantly, consultation, by my support for positive and productive progression of our collective beliefs and goals. I am also very passionate about ensuring negative candidates who have a history of disruptive behaviour don’t get elected. Let’s move on, not backwards.

DAVID WALKER
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
As a senior executive/part owner in the company I work in I am involved with budget planning and other Board level management decisions. I’m a previous Fair Day/Parade route volunteer and parade participant.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I am not happy with the way the organisation is being run, or the degree to which volunteers and members are respected and treated. I want to make a difference to ensure a sustainable and vibrant New Mardi Gras for the future.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
Investigation is needed into ways of reducing the reliance on the funding that results from two parties a year — in an ever increasingly competitive dance party market.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
I feel that Mardi Gras needs to recapture some of the ‘fire’ it once had. It needs to be more than an events company, and should represent our diverse community in their endeavours and support their rights.
It needs to do better to engage with the GLBTIQ community and be relevant to females and younger people in particular. It also needs to reconnect with the vital volunteer base and give them back some of the meaningful roles they once had.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
Members should vote for me if they believe that change is necessary.

DAVID WILSON
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
Four years experience as a member-elected director with a superannuation trustee. Five years NMG involvement with Fair Day (volunteer coordinator). Three years on the Fair Day steering group. I designed and implemented NMG’s first-ever event website (for Fair Day stalls).

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I want NMG to focus on relevance. With 3500 members it is not. Sydney’s population 4.5 million, with 1 in 10, why not 450,00 or 2.2 million Australia-wide. I will get finances controlled and return the volunteer emphasis.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
I will implement a code of conduct for members — vilification of members will not be tolerated, just as our community fights it. The Parade must remain an NMG event  celebrating equality. New avenues of GLBITQ celebration must be found.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Mardi Gras is more than event management, or it should be. Let it again be fully supportive of equality and the community organisations supporting it. Without relevance, NMG’s future is bleak, irrespective of financial state. Promote GLBITQ issues in the mainstream media.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
With the Fair Day steering group, I helped this loved event become cost-neutral (2009). I have delivered sustainability to the GLBITQ community with vision. I have business skills to deliver sustainability, keeping the Board accountable with integrity and full community disclosure.

GREGORY SMALL – WITHDRAWN
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
Director: 2006 – 2009. Part of a team that delivered approximately $1 million in profits and secured long term government sponsorship for the organisation. I was Board sponsor and licensee for two Fair Days, membership and parties over those seasons.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I love Mardi Gras and this community. I want to see this iconic event and organisation get back on track and avoid some of the poor decisions and management over the past years.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
NMG is more than a party and parade. It’s an iconic institution that should embrace the wider community and play a more active role. I would like to see further development of the festival and a broadening of revenues for the wider community. Not just dance parties.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Greater grassroots involvement and relevance from the wider GLBQ community but underpinned by a responsible and sustainable long-term financial security.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
If given the honour of being re-elected I will continue to ask the tough questions and seek the answers; stand up for the members and volunteers; ensure a return to responsible fiscal management to Australian international financial reporting standards; and fight to ensure our intellectual property is protected.

JAMES RONGEN-HALL
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
No.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I want to contribute my skills, ideas and passion to the development of an organisation which I strongly believe in.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
The Parade consultation process should form the blueprint for a broader review of other events, particularly encouraging the input of young people. The high artistic standard of the Festival cultural program should be fenriched with new commissions and bespoke events. The programming and direction of the cultural program, parties and community events should be unified.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
I would like to see NMG engage more with young people to ensure it remains relevant and valuable to future generations, and continues to deepen community and member consultation across its operations.
I would like to see the financial position of NMG strengthened and stabilised to allow long-term vision and planning for the development of the organisation and its events.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I have a wealth of experience in programming, producing, event operations, production management, design and hospitality which makes me well suited to this role. I believe I can bring a fresh perspective and rigour as an events professional in areas such as entrepreneurial risk management and efficient production management.

JOSH KEECH
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
I have been on the Board since February 2009. I have also been involved in organising Lifesavers With Pride. I have also sat on the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland’s advisory committees on youth and also on sexuality.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I have a real passion for helping our community be the best it can be. NMG provides a platform for political protest, social inclusion and celebration. Being a part of the NMG Board enables me to combine my professional skill and my community interest to strategically lead the vision and values of this incredibly important organisation.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
It is important we continue to strive for participation and engagement with the whole of our community, in particular youth engagement and disability access. I want to create Mardi Gras Legal so that we have a sustainable plan for dealing with the range of legal issues faced by the organisation.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
I would love to see NMG move to be less reliant on external funding, such as sponsors and government. A part of any successful company is to be able to stand on its own two feet.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I’m young but I’m experienced, I’m engaged with our community, I bring skills (such as legal skills) that are not found in any other nominee and, most importantly, I am passionate about the organisation and what it stands for.

LYNNE O’BRIEN
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
Upfront Community Theatre ACT 1989-1992; ACT Music Inc chairperson — founding member 1992–1995; Co-chair Pride Centre 1996–2000; NSW Sponsorship Marketing Association NSW chapter; New Mardi Gras 2002-2003 and current.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
Working on the Board is a practical way to make sure the organisation has the longevity it needs to ensure visibility to the wider population. Remember Mardi Gras provides hope, community connection, support, camaraderie, strength in numbers. It is political by the fact it exists. I want to be on the Board because Mardi Gras is still important, relevant, and working its magic.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
There is a really great strategic plan we have been working on and I would like to see this implemented.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Clear community focus, with sound financial management, focusing on the strategic directions the current Board has been working on which include good governance, community transparency, access and equity and great work practice coupled with a sound knowledge of risk management mitigation strategies and a world-class celebration in February, March and other events throughout each year.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I have large event experience and, coupled with my extensive GLBTQI community/ arts board experience. I can make sure that voices for women, older women, GLBTQI families are represented and heard.

MICHAEL DOUGLAS
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
NMG treasurer: 2005–08; NMG director: 2009-10 — elected 2009 AGM, resigned November 2009.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
Quality accounting and accuracy is required throughout the year, and has been missing for some time. Intellectual property must be protected, not fumbled by the current Board’s reluctance to act upon member resolutions at the 2009 AGM.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
Broaden revenue sources, with Festival expanded to stand on its own and contribute to NMG profits, replacing declining Party revenues. Re-invigorate Party or add a new event, start small and grow!

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Parade — quality improvement (creativity/ humour/ satire) is needed despite the 2010 AGM motion ignoring it. Volunteers are an integral part of events and NMG’s continued tax-exempt status. Permanent staff should manage and grow the skill sets of volunteers.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
Now is the time for change to ensure a sustainable Mardi Gras for the future. I want every director to have access to accurate accounting records and reports 365 days of the year, be fully informed of every legal contract in force during season, and be brimming full of information (rather than access restricted or denied) so that decision-making is based on fact not fiction.

PETE URMSON
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
Community — Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, SSO Board, Board Associate, New Mardi Gras. Professional — Staging Connections (Events and Communications), Domain.com.au

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I have experience in leadership, business, events, and community activism. New Mardi Gras can be a great vehicle to publicise the message of equality for our community.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
Produce world-class quality events that represent our community views and celebrate who we are. Supporting community groups such as ACON, BGF, GLRL and Twenty10 by carrying political themes and assist with financial support.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Focus on improvement of our creative elements, financial control, and community representation. Ensure we are relevant to all in the GLBTQI community regardless of age, race and belief.
Use technology to give access to New Mardi Gras and our events for those who cannot attend.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I have vision, energy and solid leadership. My community commitment is extensive. I am focused and have a solid track record. My professional experience in events, business and communication will add real value to NMG. I pride myself on honesty and integrity. I can assist the community in achieving its goals through engagement and commitment.

Editor’s Note: Peter Urmson is a member of the Sydney Star Observer board.

PHIL KERSHAW
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
I have served as a director and chairman on public listed companies, superannuation trustees and overseas companies. I have been an associate of the NMG Board since February 2010 and director since July 2010.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I joined the NMG Board because I have a strong belief in the values and objectives of NMG and to utilise my financial, commercial and legal skills to strengthen and grow NMG.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
My areas of expertise are in financial management, systems and controls and the commercial development of businesses. As such, my ideas are for the growth of a financially strong organisation which can continue to fund the artistic ideas of others.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
If re-elected, I will continue to strengthen the financial systems and reporting of NMG and assist the finance committee to deliver the financial and commercial integrity that we need to ensure the strong future of our Parade and organisation into the future.
I want to see an inclusive NMG that improves creativity and production values of our events that includes the values of all members of our community.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I am the best person for this role because I am the candidate with the strongest financial knowledge, expertise and experience.

ROB PARTOS
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
NMG board since 2008. I have volunteered with community organisations promoting the welfare of diverse groups in society.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I still have lots to contribute with my financial background, assisting the Board negotiate financial planning, budgeting and reporting. I can represent volunteers whose voices are sometimes missing.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
NMG needs to be responsive to our community. Members’ and volunteers’ ideas should drive change. We need to be open with the community so it understands how we make decisions. NMG needs better creativity and production values. We’re working to lift support for community organisations at events.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
We need to respond to GLBITQ disadvantage and assist organisations and people promoting change, while maintaining best practice in financial management, risk management and decision-making. NMG needs to diversify income sources to better manage risks that impact our ability to deliver events like Parade and Fair Day.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
NMG needs directors with the skills to oversee this process of change. We are becoming more professional and responsive so errors are minimised and opportunities realised. Returning Board members have the experience to continue this process and are able to meet the challenges of the 2011 season.

SIRI MAY
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
NSW GLRL committee, 2008. ACON board, 2009. NMG director from January 2010.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
A NMG director needs a passionate commitment to NMG and the place it holds in this community. I am inspired by the history and potential of NMG as an expression of visibility, diversity and protest through celebration. I want to continue to contribute to its evolution and growth in line with the strategic vision developed this year.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
I want NMG to expand its reach and relevance and build on the work of the parade consultation. NMG’s direction should be informed by the voices of our communities in tandem with the organisational strategy. I want to work with staff to assist the organisation produce events that are accessible and inviting to a broad cross-section of our community.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
I want NMG to take a direction that is based on consultation and community input, led by staff and a supportive board. NMG belongs to our LGBTQ communities.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I am committed, passionate and have a background of community involvement and activism. I am committed to working with others to progress the dream that is NMG. NMG will only reach its potential through our community and organisation working together.

STEPH SANDS
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
NMG director 2002-2005, 2008-current

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
I want to be a part of the board because I simply believe in what Mardi Gras does.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
We are about to publish our three-year strategic plan. This focuses on even excellence, members and community, financial management, governance, and people engagement. This will clearly outline our direction for the development of the company.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
Personally I would like Mardi Gras to place more emphasis on community, on creative and artistic execution and most importantly we must return the company to profit.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I have experience and knowledge to see through implementing a shared vision. I have seen the good and the bad with this organisation and I have stayed fighting for the organisation because I believe in it and what it does.
Mardi Gras now needs to capitalise on the investments made last season and return the organisation to profit.
I am the best person for this role because I am already doing it with the current board and staff.
We have already planned the solutions to our current issues and we are weeks away from presenting them to everyone.
I look forward to sharing this with you soon.

TONY KNIGHT
Do you have previous experience on a board or in another role with a community organisation?
I have been involved with senior management for many years and have sat on the Mardi Gras Board.

Why do you want to be a part of the New Mardi Gras board?
Mardi Gras is one of the most important, challenging, and exciting organisations in Australia. I am the only representative of the creative arts (as opposed to arts administration) on the board. It is vital that there is a voice for all the creative artists on the Mardi Gras Board.

What are your ideas for the development of New Mardi Gras?
As I maintained in the previous election — to help lift the artistic integrity and excellence of Mardi Gras in all its events; to broaden as well as deepen the creative expression of the gay and lesbian human experience; and to ensure that the creative voice is heard and expressed in all its diverse forms and genres.

In what direction would you like to see New Mardi Gras move in the future?
For the diversity of the gay and lesbian experience to be truly diverse in its creative expression; to add depth and meaning as well as a range of creative expression in all Mardi Gras events.

Why should people vote for you and what makes you the best person for this role?
I may not be the ‘best person’ to be the creative voice on the Board — that is perhaps a little too pompous an appellation for me — but currently I am the only one. There must be a voice for the creative artists on the board. “You cannot do it without us!”

Download the candidate guide from the paper HERE or read an online page version HERE.

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