President's Update - Dec '24

Ash Munn

President - Skål International Australia

Ash Munn

Partnerships & Technology

Dear Skålleagues,

As we embrace the festive season, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May this holiday season be filled with happiness, love, and wonderful memories shared with those closest to you.

We also take this moment to send our heartfelt thoughts and support to our Skål family in Vanuatu, who have recently faced the devastating impacts of a severe earthquake. This tragedy, which has sadly claimed lives and caused widespread devastation, comes at an especially difficult time, just before Christmas, when communities should be celebrating together. Please know that Skål Australia stand with you during this challenging time and are here to assist in any way we can as you work to rebuild and recover.

A special thank you goes out to all our club committees for their incredible dedication and hard work throughout the year. Your efforts have been the backbone of our organisation, ensuring Skål continues to thrive despite the ups and downs we’ve faced. Indeed, it has been another challenging year for both Skål and the travel and tourism industry. Yet, through resilience and collaboration, we’ve continued to find ways to adapt and support one another.

As we look to 2025, let’s continue this spirit of camaraderie and optimism.

I would like to also extend my thanks to Melinda Brown, my fellow Executive Board member, who made the journey all the way to Broome to attend our Christmas luncheon. It was a very special occasion welcoming Melinda to Broome for her very first visit where we also had the privilege of inducting three new members into Skål. Thank you Mel, we hope you enjoyed a small taste of the excitement to come in March!

As the year comes to a close, we encourage all members to take the time to connect with fellow Skålleagues regarding their membership renewals. A strong and engaged membership base is vital to sustaining the vibrant organisation we have built together. Beyond renewals, reaching out to your members is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, and remind one another of the value of being a part of Skål.

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank my Executive Board, Taylor, Tara, Melinda, Sandy, Ernst, Michele and Richard for all their dedication and hard work throughout 2024. I am looking forward to another successful year ahead in 2025.

Of course, our congratulations and best wishes to Denise Scrafton who will officially take over as World President on the 1st January. This is a moment of immense pride for Skål Australia, and we are thrilled to be part of Denise's journey in the year ahead. Denise, we look forward to supporting you every step of the way as you lead our global organisation into an exciting new chapter!

Looking ahead, both myself and the Broome members are excited to welcome delegates to Broome in March for our AGM and 111th National Assembly. It promises to be a memorable event, set against the stunning backdrop of one of Australia's most stunning locations, Broome, my home! If you haven't registered, what are you waiting for? We can’t wait to welcome you to the pearl capital of the world!

Finally, we wish you all a safe and joyous holiday period. Whether you’re traveling or staying close to home, may the season bring peace and happiness to you and your families.

Yours in Skål,

Ash Munn
President - 
Skål International Australia
Partnerships & Technology