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MAG ANNUAL GROUP CONFERENCE SATURDAY 26TH APRIL 2008
MAG AGC 2008 webpages: Here
Any full member is entitled to turn up, have their say on policy, and elect the relevant officers of the group, as well as helping decide on the actions of MAG in the coming year.
Venue: Spadebourne Suite - Bromsgrove 10:30
It is a no smoking venue, located 1 mile from Bromsgrove Train Station and 3 miles from the campsite.
Sign in: by 10.15 am AGC starts prompt at 10.30 am. Lunch Break 1-2pm. AGC ends prompt at 5pm.
YOUR CURRENT FULL MEMBERSHIP CARD MUST BE SHOWN IN ORDER FOR YOU TO SIGN IN AND VOTE
The Evening Venue: is the same as the Heart of England rally site. Stoke Prior Social Club, Weston Road, Stoke Prior, Worcestershire.
Voting slips to be shown at door for free entry or £3 charge. Band is ‘No Spring Chicken’. A free taxi will only pick up from the hotels listed below. 7-8 pm pick up and drop back at the end of the evening.
DIRECTIONS: Bromsgrove lies to the south-west of Birmingham, close to the M5 and M42.
Travelling west on the M42
Take the exit at junction 1 and then the A38 south towards Bromsgrove. Turn right at the traffic lights signposted "Bromsgrove North". Burcot Lane is then the second turning on the left by the Crabmill Pub and All Saints Garage.
Travelling south on the M5
Take the exit at junction 4 and then the A38 south towards Bromsgrove. After going over the M42 roundabout, turn right at the traffic lights signposted "Bromsgrove North". Burcot Lane is then the second turning on the left by the Crabmill Pub and All Saints Garage.
Travelling north on the M5
Take the exit at junction 5 and then the A38 north towards Bromsgrove. After going over the A448 roundabout and the new roundabout by N.E.W. College, turn left at the traffic lights signposted "Bromsgrove North". Burcot Lane is then the second turning on the left by the Crabmill Pub and All Saints Garage.
If you use the M5, please note that there is no exit from the M42 at junction 1 travelling east.
Parking: Parking is free and is in the
car park to the left of the Council Offices. The entrance to Spadesbourne Hall is in the drive to the right of the Council Offices -follow signs to the Spadesbourne Suite.
Access for Disabled People
There is space and access for wheelchairs at Spadesbourne Hall. Tel: Gill Fredrick on 01527 874163 if you need to bring a car close to the entrance.
Non Vehicle Users
Spadesbourne Hall is 2 minutes walk from the First (formerly Midland Red) Birmingham-Worcester bus route (All Saints Church bus stop).
AGC 2008 MANIFESTOS AND PROPOSALS
Manifesto for the position of Chairman of the Motorcycle Action Group
Jane Chisholm
Membership Number: 106527
Hi, I’m Jane Chisholm, BA (hons), currently Chair of MAG UK. I work in education as a teacher of English, in a secure unit for children with behaviour problems. I live in Jackson Bridge, West Yorkshire.
Throughout my life the constant theme has been bikes and I currently ride a Harley 883 Custom Sportster, XL53 C. My biking travels have taken me through most of the touring roads in the UK and Europe and it is this love and pleasure and the wish to continue to enjoy it for many a year that drives me to promote and defend riders rights in our own country through MAG UK.
My style is definitely a hands on approach. I was Yorkshire Regional Rep for three years and through the local group expansion plan extended the region to 10 groups and over 1300 members.
Between 2004 and 2006 I coordinated efforts in putting on the Yorkshire Pudding Rally which then made approximately £25,000 for MAG. In 2007 due to time restrictions as Chair, I handed over the co-ordination to Pete Walker, who I continue to support and work along side.
Between 2004 and 2005 as Vice Chair of MAG UK I worked on re-establishing training weekends to equip our activists with the knowledge and skills to help them engage effectively. These training weekends now run annually. Uniting the efforts of individual members is the key of our organisation and I believe that it is imperative to have a hands on approach to keep in touch with the grass roots membership in the UK. We have a wealth of talented volunteers and employees who give their hard work and dedication.
We need their support in order to rally our members but to do that it is imperative that the leadership of MAG UK is ever present and receptive to the advice and expertise of these people. As a dedicated member, I recognise that MAG UK is a democratic organisation, therefore it is imperative that all actions must follow procedures as laid out in the constitution and the Chair must be accountable to the members at all times.
The nature of my work in education means I have developed and use skills in: planning; forward thinking; organising; problem solving; communication and team building. In my role as Vice Chair, and Chair I believe that I have brought these skills to benefit MAG UK.I have worked for several years at local, regional and national level and feel I have valid experience and perspective of the organisation as a whole.
Although much of my time is spent having an overview and trying to help the smooth running of the organisation, I still work side by side MAG members at rallies and events, as time permits. Last year I was able to support Into the Valley, The Farmyard Party, The Yorkshire Pudding Rally. Spat Out of Hull, Stormin the Castle, other Regions AGM’s and fund raising events.
In April 2007, as Chair of MAG UK, I started work with Directors of MAG UK the NC and Staff at Central. With a stronger financial position than in previous years we employed David Short as Campaigns Manager to work along side Trevor Baird as General Secretary. We developed success in the political arena and were invited to share our expertise with decision making government bodies. With a fresh pair of eyes on board, we did a SWOT analysis, which identified out strengths and weaknesses. We have started a process to try and increase our membership, by trying to project a broader image and appeal to a wider biking community. Part of this process has been to project this image within the biking and general press to ensure that these changes reach the entire motorcycle community. Work is in progress in all these areas and you will have full reports at conference.
I want to make sure that motorcycling has a future for the next generations and believe that MAG is best placed to ensure this happens.
I believe I have demonstrated this by giving time, commitment and dedication. The role of Chairman is demanding and requires constant attention and dialogue.
Furthermore I believe that the chair cannot work in isolation, but as part of a team. There is still much work to do in the year ahead.
For these reasons I will be standing for the position of Chair of MAG UK at the April AGC 2008 and I ask you for your continued support.
Proposed by Stu Chivers
Membership number: 112155
Seconded by Paul Turner
Membership number: 116205
Manifesto for the position of National Finance Officer
Justine Travis
Membership Number: 97513
As mentioned last year I hate preparing a manifesto for AGC, so as promised here is a near repeat, it got me in last year so hopefully will do the same this year.
I have been National Finance Officer and a Director of MAG UK since 2004, during my time I have seen MAG grow in the expertise and commitment from its volunteers shown by the great results from the fighting fund donations.
This is yet another year where I am going to reiterate that one of the key initiatives has to be to increase membership. We need to look ahead and make MAG such a strong image bikers can't avoid it and feel they have to join, the increased coverage about MAG in the press after Davids appointment and the rebranding exercise with more distinctive advertising and website improvements is a great platform to build on.
For anyone new into MAG or who has never attended the AGC before it is always hard to vote in complete strangers so a bit of personal info may help. I passed my test in 1994 and am the resident National Committee 'scooter girl' as I ride a Honda Silverwing 600cc scooter. I also have a Suzuki TU250 chosen when I heard it regularly featured on polls of ugly bikes, my better half has just given it a facelift (you couldn't make it look worse anyway) so its more trailie for rallies, and a new addition is a 1981 Suzuki TS 250 so I can join the VJMCC on rideouts. My day job is managing budgets as an IT Project Manager which has helped me in the Finance role, but what has been of far more use is being married to a Yorkshire man, 'NO you can't spend that' has long been a familiar phrase and has come in very handy.
You will see from my report to AGC in April that we are still great value for money and I would never like to see us grow complacent and not have to get the biggest bang for our buck and I see ensuring that as part of my role.
I now ride my bike less but know more people than ever and I hope I have made some life long friendships, but above all I can feel I am doing something worthwhile to help protect the lifestyle we have all chosen.
Proposed by Gerard Livett
Membership Number: 92282
Seconded by Tony Cox
Membership Number: 114555
Manifesto for the position of National Clubs Liaison Officer
Fergus O'Connell
Membership Number: 25618
The last year has been a very good one for MAG and especially on the club front. Numbers are up and we have had some notable success in the clubs that have affiliated to us. Some have returned to us after something of a gap.
We have (as predicted) seen an uplift in numbers during the last year. This has not been fully represented in the current figures as several clubs that have decided to affiliate can only do so after their own AGM's, which do not occur until the New Year (please bear in mind that this manifesto has to be submitted before 31/12/07).
I have visited as many clubs as I can during 2007. I am pleased to report that I have a 100% record during these visits.
I seem to mention every year about the impact on full membership from affiliates taking out full membership. I actually had the happy situation whereby a club did not renew their affiliation because every member is a full member. This is just a small example of how important the club affiliation scheme is.
I predict that 2008 will see MAG having more affiliated clubs than it has ever had before. Thats a chap going out on a limb if ever there was one.
I am happy to continue as clubs officer if the membership is willing to vote me in again.
Thankyou and goodnight.
Proposed by Ian Mutch
Membership Number: 00003
Seconded by Arch Hipkins
Membership Number: 90809 Life
Manifesto for the position of National Network Liaison Officer 2007
Archi Hipkins
Membership Number: 90809 Life
I have been involved in communication at inter and intra organisational levels for a number of years, both professionally and within MAG UK. During the past year, I have used this experience in my role as National Network Communications Officer.
Network remains one of MAG UK's most effective tools of communication. I intend that this should continue and where possible continue to evolve. This includes entering into debate any opinion that is constructive to that debate to enable informed choice regardless of political affiliation past or present.
It is anticipated that further change to content style and presentation will occur in the coming year with the development of campaigning strategy and presentation within MAG.
Network has been evolving over the last year for the good use and benefit of MAG UK and by continuing in this role; which I believe requires thoughtful presentation of facts, I will endeavour to increase its take up in the interests of all MAG UK members and of other organisations that have the same or similar philosophy.
Therefore, I will continue to work alongside the NC and authors of submitted articles to present a balanced and honest briefing document.
Proposed by Fergus O’Connell
Membership Number: 25618
Seconded by Steve Wykes
Membership Number: 89454
Manifesto for the position of Directorship of MAG (UK) Ltd.
Gerard Livett
Membership Number: 92282
I am seeking reelection to the position of Director of MAG (UK) Ltd, which I have held since 2004.
In the past four years we have seen MAG go from strength to strength, both politically and financially, and this has been a team effort by the membership, the Board, the National Committee and our members of staff.
At present we have two of the best teams in both the board and the National Committee since I became a member shortly after passing my motorcycle test in 1996.
At this time of growth in the fortunes of MAG, I would like to continue to play my part in this, and would continue to bring my knowledge and experience to the board.
Proposed by Arch Hipkins
Membership Number: 90809 Life
Seconded by Fergus O’Connell
Membership Number: 25618
AGC 2008 PROPOSALS
Proposal 1
Motion Hit and Run Reward Scheme
In the light of the perceived reluctance by some Police forces to adequately investigate hit and run incidents concerning bikers. This motion calls upon the NC to implement a reward scheme payable for information which results in the successful prosecution of drivers involved in hit and run incidents that result in injury or damage to MAG members bikes or trikes.
This reward shall be limited to the sum of £1000 in respect of any individual incident and shall be divided equally among witnesses whose evidence results in prosecution.
Proposed by: Steve Wykes
Membership Number: 89454
Seconded by: Danny Melville
Membership Number: 117401
Proposal 2
This conference resolves that: 'The words "National Research Officer" and preceding comma be deleted from section 7iiiB of the Constitution.'
The amended section would then read: 'The National Chairman, National Finance Officer, National Clubs Liaison Officer and National Network Communications Officer elected by the group conference.'
Proposed by: Gerard Livett
Membership Number: 92282
Seconded by: Steve Wykes
Membership Number: 89454
Proposal 3
Regional AGM's
To allow the Regional Representative or committee to communicate the Annual AGM to all members in any way they think fit and is suitable or appropriate.
Proposed by: Paul Turner
Membership Number: 116205
Seconded by: Archi Hipkins
Membership Number: 90809 (Life Membership)
Note:
To allow the Regional Representative or committee to communicate the Annual AGM to all members in any way they think fit and is suitable or appropriate.
However this would require changes to the constitution?
The proposal says what should happen but not the wording?
e.g. To replace the wording in part X with the following wording X
The constitution says:
iii. Regional members shall be given notice of regional AGM’s by way of a notice in MAG’s regular members’ newspaper, such notice to appear in the issue delivered to members at least 14 days prior to the meeting in question. The accidental failure to notify any member of a regional AGM shall not invalidate the proceedings.
The constitution does not mention post or labels. This is the Regional Reps Job Description Here
The job description agreed in the mists of time was changed at the October 2001 AGC.
So the job description needs a proposal to change it, as it was agreed at an AGC, along with a corresponding proposal regarding the constitution?
October 2001 AGC
Link: Here
After the acceptance of friendly amendments and the defeat of the amendment rejected by the Proposer the substantive resolution carried overwhelmingly by Conference (3 against) read as follows:
That from 1st January 2002:
Regions shall be required to notify their Regional AGMs to all Members by post; Central Office shall supply sticky labels for the mailing showing details of Members current as at one month prior to the date of the AGM.
The non-inclusion of Members joining after the date the label run was produced shall not invalidate the proceedings and neither shall any other genuinely accidental failure to notify any Member, subject to ratification by the NC observer on the day.
Central funds shall be made available for the said mailing where the region is genuinely impoverished, subject to the National Finance Director's approval;
Assistance shall be given by the NC to any Regional Rep on request with the wording of any letter of notification, which shall be aimed at securing maximum attendance and participation by Members thereafter in MAG activities;
Regions shall supply a draft agenda for said meeting to the regional Membership along with notice of any proposals and / or nominations received by the date of the posting. Regions shall include a single sheet newsletter with the mailing;
Not less than 14 days notice be given of such meetings;
Not more than 15 months shall elapse between Regional AGMs and should no AGM be convened within that time the Regional Rep's term of office shall cease, with the National Network Director (Reps Liaison Officer) convening a Regional AGM in conjunction with local reps;
Regional AGMs be notified to the NC at least four weeks prior so as to enable an observer to be appointed;
That the National Chairman be instructed to update the Model Rules for Regions accordingly and distribute the same via Network in due course.
Carried overwhelmingly (3 against).
The Regional Reps Job Description says:
6. Regional Annual General Meetings
From 1st January 2002 Regions shall notify their Regional AGMs to all members in the region by post using labels or similar assistance provided by MAG Central Office showing details of current members as at the date of request. The non-inclusion of members joining after the date of request shall not invalidate the proceedings and neither shall any other genuinely accidental failure to notify any member, subject to ratification of the same by the appointed NC observer.
Proposal 4
That MAG should actively support actions and initiatives that are instigated by others where these actions reflect our core values and benefit motorcyclists as a whole. For Example the KillSpills and Ride for Rights campaigns.
I believe that this has two clear benefits
1. That by supporting these campaigns they have a greater chance of success.
2. By aligning ourselves with other riders political campaigns we broaden our own base and could benefit with increased awareness by the general biking population and in so doing create an opportunity to increase membership of MAG.
Proposed by: Allan Blackwell
Membership Number: 122957
Seconded by: Steven Roberts
Membership Number: 122893
Proposal 5
Last year we passed a motion to invade Normandy. I wish to bring this back to the conference. It was in jest last year, but the sentiment of this motion hit the target with AGC delegates and MAG members at group level.
So I ask the conference and the National Committee to support and organise the invasion of Normandy. As a national protest ride through Brittan, to Brussels (yes I know it’s not in Normandy) and then to the European parliament. With good organisation and enough support this could be made into a major media opportunity for MAG.
Proposed by: Allan Blackwell
Membership Number: 122957
Seconded by: Steven Roberts
Membership Number: 122893
HOTEL PRICES FOR AGC 26th APRIL 2008
EXPRESS BY HOLIDAY INN
Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich, Worcestershire, WR9 7PA
Double room 1 night (£35 per person) £70
This hotel is the closest to M5 Junction 5, is situated next to a McDonalds and is not far from the Stoke Prior Club.
LADYBIRD LODGE
Finstall Road, Aston Fields, Bromsgrove.
Email – info@ladybirdlodge.co.uk
Telephone – 01527 889900
Double Room 1 night with Full English breakfast £60
Single Room (as above) £46
Please check these prices as the receptionist did say they may go up after Christmas.
This hotel is right next to the Bromsgrove Railway Station and has a top restaurant.
Midway between the Conference venue and the evening venue.
PREMIER TRAVEL INN (x2)
Worcester Road, Upton Warren, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B61 7ET
Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B61 0BA
Prices for these hotels are the same
Double or Twin room 1 night £51
Upton Warren hotel is near to Stoke Prior Club and the other hotel is almost behind the Spadesbourne Conference Suite.
TRAVELODGE
Droitwich Hotel A38 Rashwood Hill Droitwich WR9 0BJ Tel: 0871 984 6074
All I can find for this hotel is a family room (sleeps three adults) 1 night £29
This is close to the Express by holiday Inn, M5 Junction 5 and the Stoke Prior Club
NOMINATIONS - AWARDS AGC 2008
Nominations for awards must be submitted to the National Committee by the February NC meeting preceding the Conference at which the award will be made. The awards are -
The Freedom Award
To be awarded to the MAG Member who in the opinion of the National Committee has made an outstanding, sustained, significant and positive contribution to the work of the Group over a period of years.
The Freedom Award Cup is given, to be held by the recipient until the next AGC. A small plaque or shield is also presented for the recipient to keep thereafter along with a merit badge.
The Richard Tegg Award
To be awarded to the MAG Member who in the opinion of the National Committee has made a sustained, significant and positive contribution to the work of the Group over a period of years at a local level. National Committee members are not eligible for this award in relation to their national work or NC activity, but may be nominated in respect of specified local non-NC activity as an ordinary member.
A shield is given, to be held by the recipient until the next AGC. A small plaque or shield is also presented for the recipient to keep thereafter along with a merit badge.
The Steve Tannock Teamwork Award
To be awarded to the local group, region or other team of MAG members who, in the opinion of the National Committee, have made a significant joint contribution to the work of the Group.
An appropriately engraved shield is given to be held by the winning team’s region until the next AGC. Where the team is multi-regional the shield is held in the trophy display at MAG Central. Each team member receives a certificate of merit.
Honorary Life Membership
To be awarded in respect for significant work over a sustained period on behalf of the group. Except in exceptional circumstances nominees for Honorary Life membership should have been fully paid up ordinary members of MAG for an unbroken period of at least ten years prior to nomination for this award. No more than three Honorary Life Memberships may be awarded annually.
A small plaque or shield is given for the recipient to keep along with a merit badge.
Simon Milward Award (The Lifetime Achievement Award)
To be awarded to a person who, in the opinion of the National Committee has, over their lifetime, made a significant contribution to motorcycling. (The nominee may be a non-member of MAG at the time the award is granted.)
A plaque and merit badge is given.
The Chairman's Award
To be awarded by the National Chairman to a group or individual that has made a significant and otherwise unrecognised contribution to the work of the Group.
A bowl is given to the recipient until the next AGC. A small plaque is also presented for the recipient to keep thereafter along with a merit badge to individual winners.
Certificate of Merit.
To be awarded to the MAG Member who in the opinion of the National Committee has made an outstanding, significant and positive contribution to the work of the Group.
Certificate and merit badge is given.
Media Award.
MAG-friendly Media for the promotion and/or reporting of MAG. - A plaque is given.
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