2008 Australian National Conference Report.    

Prepared By: Jim K Area Delegate Area C Eastern Region Panel #48.

Introduction

This is my last conference and next year in January Area C will elect a new Delegate and they will have the privilege to attend Conference representing the Groups of Area C Eastern Region, I would like to thank all the Groups in Area C for the privilege they have afforded me by allowing me to represented them at Conference for the last three years. It has been the most enjoyable experience of my sobriety and has been a roller coaster ride like no other I have been on. The opportunity for growth that being an Area Delegate and Conference Member gives you is a gift that I can’t thank Area C enough for allowing me to experience.

I caught the train down to Central Station and used the time on the train to reread my conference folder familiarising myself with the topics my committees will be considering at this year’s conference, I arrived at Central Station at 10.30am and walked to the Mercury Hotel a walk of about 150 meters, booked in, met and talked to Conference Members till we assembled for lunch and Conference got officially started. After lunch the Boards Conference Meeting started while we had a brake for an hour then our meeting started.

Conference Starts - Delegates & Observers Meeting.

This is the meeting where we the older conference members instruct the new delegates and remind the returning delegates on conference administrative procedures. This is the only meeting a Delegate chairs at conference, all other meetings are chaired by Board Members. They had us seated like a school room; we left it that way till all Conference Members assembled together and then we made our first Group Conscious Decision a change to a circle seating arrangement, much better.

Full Conference assembles for:

• Recital of Declaration of Unity.
• Reading of Twelve Traditions. (Long Form)
• Reading of Twelve Concepts.
• Roll Call – Getting to know you. (self introduction)
• Opening address. (Chairperson GSB)
• Presentation on conference theme.

World Service Delegates Report.

Ireland

Ireland is by far the biggest contributor to the International Literature Fund – the groups in Ireland contribute 98% of the money needed for Irelands running budget. In other words they don’t have to rely on Literature sales like we do for over 50% of our running budget. Our World Delegate thinks a lot of their success comes from their Group Treasurers Notebook, in it they have a system for accurately recording the amounts collected as well as the amounts outgoing.

Mexico

Mexico has an enviable success rate and has 169,000 members and 15,000 groups and our world delegate is preparing to send some of their material to Australian Spanish Groups.

Australia's sponsorship of Vladimir from Belarus

Vladimir from Belarus has been sober for 11 years and lives in Kiev. Belarus has 10 million people and, according to Vladimir, 20-30% are alkies. AA in Belarus started in 1993. Vladimir's English is very poor.

Discussion of country sponsorship: France/Croatia, Lithuania/Estonia, Norway/ Greenland. In Greenland wives and girlfriends always come along for the dancing afterwards.

Alcoholism among indigenous populations

Not all that many countries see it as a big issue. 

Lapps have translations.

In Peru indigenous people have alcohol as central part of their religious practices.

Confusion over young people in AA: kids with parents? No, kids who, as part of the culture have been given alcohol as toddlers. (Mexico)

Discussions regarding India

Our World Delegates had a long discussion with the Indian delegates, Bhalla and Pushin re the Board visit etc. Ian will discuss this. We decided that we would raise the issue with the Board and report back to him. It seems India will suggest that Vanda and a WSM should be invited to the North India convention near Delhi in June and perhaps this could be combined with a visit to Bhutan and perhaps even Bangladesh and Nepal. Australia should pay airfares, India should provide accommodation. Maximum time for the trip should be about 10 days.

Other ideas our World Service Delegate picked up that may be useful

• It would seem most countries get great benefit from having a single national phone number. We should do an update on a national phone number system here.
• Some countries found that bus ads had exceptional pulling power. We should look at how well this might work here.
• Campaigns to the medical profession have yielded good results. Check up on what's happening here.
• Discussion of rotation of GSRs – which I realised needed to be added to our new Group Handbook.
• Consider list of links on our websites.  Some countries have more than we do but most are cautious like us: Convention, GSO NY, Al-Anon, Service website.
• Professional lunches for doctors, parole offices, etc have been working well.
• Sponsor your doctor: get a subscription to the Grapevine (Reviver) for her/him.
• Many countries have big problems when they don't follow structure and rotation. Rotation is widely ignored - with bad results.
• Most countries do surveys but, like us, most don't have an acceptable methodology. Norway has Prof Sociology A-class Trustee who worked out the methodology for their survey. Methodology for US survey coming from "GSO New York". Survey methodology coming from NZ.
• Ride-to-a-meeting service for people who aren't mobile.
• There was obvious confusion about the difference between attraction and promotion in PI work. This stifled a lot of work because people worried that they might be breaking the Traditions. I will dig out a table we developed years ago that explained the difference. It might be useful to members involved in PI.
• We want to use a version of the UK video on our website.  We asked for the right to edit and use it but we seemed to be getting nowhere.  The UK delegate filled me in on the copyright problems they have been having. That may get sorted out soon but in the meantime he has given me two other videos we may be able to use.
• It was proposed that we copy the US's Young people's video project which invites young people to make a video about being in AA. This has been very slow to complete and the deadline has had to be moved back several times. Most of the entries haven't been great.  The ones that might be useful need a lot of (expensive work to improve them.)Problem with licensing versus copyright. "GSO New York". in New York will know decision after their board meeting. First ones should be available in Jan-Feb. We may be able to use it but it would seem that it would be unwise to launch such a project here in Australia.
• Are CPC committees looking at unions, HR managers, schools, magistrates, churches? How is that going?
• Many countries have had major thefts. How big an issue is it here? 
• The delegate from Ireland gave me notes of the discussion on rogue groups which I will pass on to the Board. Basically, it said that we shouldn't be too quick to try to close them down. A tolerant attitude works best.
• AAWS is looking at providing more literature for people with limited reading skills.
• Dorothy Wilson trustee-at-large has a presentation on AA around the world which she is happy to bring to conventions.
• Are there any Maltese in AA Australia? The Maltese delegates are keen to make contact with overseas members.
• Experiences of online groups -- both good and bad. Most seem to start out badly but things get sorted out and most countries that have them find they are an effective way to carry the message.
• Email help lines seem to be working well in several countries. Should we have one on our website?
• Pushan, the first term delegate from India suggested we should organise a concerted effort to build up AA in the Asia-Oceania region. We will join with him to list the missing countries. Alcoholism is a major problem even in Muslim countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan.
• There was much agonising over profits on literature sold to non-members. Big sale in Mexico to schools for $10,000.  US says it's okay because ultimate user is an alkie.
• In Latvia, people give up to 2% charitable donations and these are paid to the charities anonymously via the tax department. But AA doesn't know who they come from. Should they accept them??
• In the UK the government passed a special law to allow AA, as a charity, to refuse certain donations. Other charities must accept all funds given.
• Are we growing? Much soul searching about this. Some countries are, some aren't.  Big book sales graph in Australia suggests we are growing in Australia.
• Ian and I realised we need a set of guidelines and a checklist for operations like the Solomon Islands. This made us realise it would be beneficial to have guidelines and a checklist for the WSM delegates.

A quick picture of the World Service Meeting

Organised by GSO New York, the WSM meets every second year. The meetings alternate between New York and some other city in another country.

At the 20th WSM (this year) there were 60 delegates from 35 countries. About a third of the delegates came from Spanish speaking countries and so there were simultaneous English/Spanish translations going on with earphones.

Most of the WSM was held in a large conference room with delegates sitting at tables arranged in a huge square. At various times we broke up into committees and workgroups to discuss issues in detail.

There was an evaluation form at the end of the meeting. Ian and I, along with many other delegates, asked that the meetings should be more focussed. Many delegates felt we got a lot more out of the workshops and committees rather than the general sharing. We should have more expert presentations and make the country highlights section into a “Good Ideas” session.

The 2010 World Service Meeting (WSM) will be in Mexico City from Oct 17-21.

Saturdays special Passed Delegates Meeting. 

9.00 am start. All welcomed by John L Chairman of the Board.

Roll Call with all present standing up when their name was called, then Valerie M National Office Manager gave an outline of their service in AA.

10.00 am the first meeting started with the chairperson being John L speakers shared on the theme – Down Memory Lane.

Speakers.

Second Meeting Chaired by Jim K (Delegate Area C Eastern Region) theme – the thrills and spills of service.

Third Meeting Chaired by Deborah B Delegate Area B Southern Region the theme was – The conference yesterday and tomorrow.

This was by far my highlight of the 2008 conference to hear the people that started General Service in Australia share about how it was at the start as well as the service they also did in CSO, was - words fail me, the level of my vocabulary is not sufficient to come up with enough superlatives to describe the feeling I got.

John L our chairman as part of our final day asked us all to come up with one thought to keep, about the conference and share with another Delegate, one on one. My thought was we missed a chance, if each person that attended the past Delegates meeting had been able to bring one person young in service to the meeting it would have inspired them for all their service life.

I have brought the CDs of the meeting for Area so that people may have the privilege of listening to this great event.

General thoughts on this years Conference.

At conference a lot of general discussion about problems in AA, Australian wide seems to be discussed over coffee and meals, this years conference was no exception. Breakfast seemed to be the place where a lot of discussion happened; everyone was having breakfast for between 1 and 2 hours even though you finished eating in about 10 minutes.

I was told I would find that as a 3^rd year delegate, I would be at my most effective at Conference, I can agree with that totally, as guardian’s of the Traditions, I think it is essential that anything that might be a breech of the Traditions be discussed fully and it was hard to get that happening this year and I think full discussion is essential.

My Committees

Finance.

We had 6 Advisory Actions from previous conferences and all but 1 had be completed by the Board, Advisory Action #016/2007 was in progress with a working party formed and it will be back at conference in 2009.

We reviewed the Financial Report for the year ending 30^th June 2008; the prudent reserve is 1 Years operating costs of the National Office/Board and the report showed that the prudent reserve was not exceeded this year. Sales Revenue was up from last year but Revenue from donations and such was down. (If you want to look at the report it will be at the next Area assembly)

Recommendations by Committee to full Conference:

1. The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that the Financial Accounts for the period 1^st July 2007 – 30^th June 2008 be accepted.

Passed by Full Conference.

2. The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that seed money not be advanced to National Convention Committees until a letter of appointment of an appropriately qualified auditor has been sighted by the National Office management Group. National Convention audits are necessary in order for the General Service Board audited accounts to be completed. The committee further recommends that this statement be included in the National Convention Guidelines.

Passed by Full Conference.

3. The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that the budget prepared by the General Service Board be based on the standard financial year from 1^st July to 30^th June and that it be presented to the Conference Financial Committee to approve on behalf of Conference prior to the start of that financial year. Under the current system a calendar year budget, i.e. from January to December for the forthcoming year is presented to Conference. However, as with most other businesses, the General Service Board operates on the normal financial year, i.e. the beginning of July to end of June. It is further recommended that this recommendation be added to the Scope of the Conference Finance Committee.

Passed by Full Conference.

As a committee we dealt with the following topics. Topics: 012/2008, 012/2008 you can see the results in the Topics section of this report.

Treatment & Correctional Facilities. (T&CF)

We had 1 Advisory Action from previous conferences: Advisory Action #034/2007 and it was in progress with T&CF Co-ordinator to Report and it will be back at conference in 2009.

We had no Topics at this years Conference so as Chairperson of the committee I contacted Lloyd F the outgoing National T&CF Coordinator and Lenny S the incoming National T&CF Coordinator and asked if they had anything they would like discussed, Lloyd & Lenny wanted the recommended topics on Page 12 of the report from the National T&CF Forum discussed.

1. Separate Treatment from Correctional and designate a National Trustee for each.

It was agreed that while this is a good idea for the future if it was done now the result could be that we would lose our Forum and Coordinator and the result would be PI/CPC would become the only Forum again.

2. Update Guidelines (including selection criteria) and provide to members.

After much discussion we came up with a draft topic to take back to Areas.

Topic: We ask that a General Guideline for members active in correctional visits subject to their local legislation (behaviour, procedures and dress codes) be prepared and added to the Guidelines.

3. Produce DVD to promote service to members.

Investigate current DVD for suitability (An inside view for Prison Officers)

4. AA to make top level approach to State agencies but devolve service work at local level.

Currently through a NEWPAA initiative we are in the process of putting this into practise. Wayne P, John S and Lenny S are meeting the Minister for Juvenile Correction Centres and are hoping to set up a meeting with the Correctional Minister.

5.   Pamphlet on Service Sponsorship.

This one promoted lively discussion and it was decided to take it back to Areas to develop a topic and then share it and enlarge it, through email over the Year.

I would like to thank Lloyd F for his great work as National T&CF Coordinator and his great report. (If you want to look at the report it will be at the next Area Assembly) Our incoming Coordinator is Lenny S from Cessnock Living Sober Group (Area C) and I wish him a great 2 Years and I know he will benefit from the position as much as AA will benefit from having his experience in Jails to guide T&CF.

Report Charter & Service manual.

We had no Accountability Follow-Ups.

We had lively debate on the Topics and made recommendations to conference that will involve changes to the Guidelines.

As a committee we dealt with the following topics. Topics: 002/2008, 018/2008 and 019/2008 you can see the results in the Topics section of this report.

Results Conference Topics.

Note: At this point I should explain that when the full Conference reassembles, after breaking up into Committee’s, that we then vote on the Committee’s recommendation to Conference on the Topic not the Topic itself.

 

TOPIC NO: 001/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

The General Service Board recommends to Conference that an article written by Class A Trustee,  Dr. Vanda Rounsefell on the dangers of giving unqualified medical advice be produced as a pamphlet.

Considerations: Tradition 10. No A.A. group or member should ever, in such a way as to implicate A.A., express any opinion on outside controversial issues-particularly those of politics, alcohol reform, or sectarian religion. The Alcoholics Anonymous groups oppose no one. Concerning such matters they can express no views whatever. Do members read pamphlets? If no is cost worth it? Is this already covered in a pamphlet?

Literature Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that the concept of the pamphlet based on the article by Class A Trustee Dr Vanda Rounsefell on the dangers of giving unqualified medical advice be approved with the proviso that the Committee forward suggested changes, by 31st January 2009, to Trustees Literature Committee via the national Office, Final Draft of the pamphlet to be brought back to Conference 2009.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:35

A:0

N:0

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 002/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

The Board recommends to Conference that the guidelines on Regional Forums be changed to read that up to two people could be invited to attend.

Considerations: That would read this way If a region wishes the attendance of staff or board members at a forum, the General Service Board will pay (two) full fare(s) per forum per region per year, for any (2) invited guest from any of the following categories……………………………………………………. ·         National Office Staff member. ·         International Delegate ·         Non-alcoholic Trustee. ·         Other regional or General Service Trustee.

The Conference Report Charter & Service Manual Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Report Charter & Service Manual Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be accepted and that the Guideline GL-06, Regional Forums, be changed to state that: “…the General Service Board will pay up to two full fares per forum per Region per year,…”

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y: 35

A:0

N: 0

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 004/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

For all pamphlets that are included in the Sponsors Wallets to be printed on non glossy paper.(we also include “a message to teenagers” in ours)

Considerations: Should all Pamphlets be on non glossy paper?

Literature Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be rejected. Glossy paper pamphlets are more attractive and stickers can be used in place of ink stamps.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

No

Y:5

A:0

N:30

As Area Instructed:

Yes

Considerations at full conference: Much discussion for and against this committee recommendation but the recommendation was rejected and the Topic passed and it was agreed that all pamphlets that National Office prints will be on non-glossy paper. (environmental reasons were a swing factor)

TOPIC NO: 005/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

A.A. At A Glance.  in the section that reads: How A.A. Is Supported Over the years, Alcoholics Anonymous has affirmed and strengthened a tradition of being fully self-supporting and of neither seeking nor accepting contributions from non-members. Within the Fellowship, the amount that may be contributed by any individual member is limited to $2,000 a year. That the sentence that reads: “Within the Fellowship, the amount that may be contributed by any individual member is limited to $2,000 a year” Be deleted.

Considerations:

Literature Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that the sentence “Within the Fellowship, the amount that may be contributed by any individual member is limited to $2,000 a year” Be deleted from AA at a Glance as it is confusing and unnecessary.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:35

A:0

N:0

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 007/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

Include a glossary of terms in the Big Book

Considerations: Who would compile it? What dictionary would be used? Who would have the final say in the meaning’s? Would this raise the cost of a Big Book? If yes by how much?

Literature Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that the proposal that a glossary of terms be included in the Big Book be rejected. Explanation of words and terms can be looked up in a dictionary or on the internet.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:32

A:0

N:3

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 008/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

We propose AA conduct a nationwide survey to assess exactly how effective we are in carrying AA's message of recovery from alcoholism through the teaching and practice of the 12 Steps as outlined in our book "Alcoholics Anonymous".

Considerations: Tradition 1. Each member of Alcoholics Anonymous is but a small part of a great whole. A.A. must continue to live or most of use will surely die. Hence our common welfare comes first. But individual welfare follows close afterward. Does this promote unity?

Policies & Admissions Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Policies & Admissions Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be rejected

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:22

A:3

N: 10

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 009/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No Opinion

That Conference formally acknowledges the 2008 National Indigenous AA Convention.

Considerations: Tradition 1. Each member of Alcoholics Anonymous is but a small part of a great whole. A.A. must continue to live or most of use will surely die. Hence our common welfare comes first. But individual welfare follows close afterward. Does this promote unity? Tradition 3: Our membership ought to include all who suffer from alcoholism. Hence we may refuse none who wish to recover. Nor ought A.A. membership ever depend upon money or conformity. Any two or three alcoholics gathered together for sobriety may call themselves an A.A. Group, provided that, as a group, they have no other affiliation. Can a different name be thought up that implies one problem one solution?

Policies & Admissions Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Policies & Admissions Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be accepted.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

No

Y:35

A:0

N:0

As Area Instructed:

Yes

Considerations by full Assembly: We as a conference acknowledged the National Indigenous AA Convention last year and we don’t see the necessity to continue doing this every year.

TOPIC NO: 010/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

Resubmit from General Service Conference 2006 re bidding process for National Indigenous AA Convention. “That Conference recommends that Areas/Districts bid annually at the Annual Australian General Service Conference to host a National Indigenous Convention in their Area.”

Considerations: Tradition 1. Each member of Alcoholics Anonymous is but a small part of a great whole. A.A. must continue to live or most of use will surely die. Hence our common welfare comes first. But individual welfare follows close afterward. Does this promote unity? Tradition 3: Our membership ought to include all who suffer from alcoholism. Hence we may refuse none who wish to recover. Nor ought A.A. membership ever depend upon money or conformity. Any two or three alcoholics gathered together for sobriety may call themselves an A.A. Group, provided that, as a group, they have no other affiliation. Does this promote one problem one solution?

Policies & Admissions Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Policies & Admissions Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be referred to the full Conference for discussion with the deletion of the word District as it si Areas that bid for conventions.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Topic rejected

Y:8

A:3

N:24

As Area Instructed:

Yes

Considerations by Full Conference: It was acknowledged that the Aboriginal People were the First inhabitants, but AA tells us we are all equal, so the Conference thought it would set a wrong precedent to treat them any different that any other Alkie.

TOPIC NO: 011/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

That a working party be established by the General Service Board and the National Office of AA, to examine the best way to develop a National AA Indigenous Central Service Office, that is consistent with the principles of Service as outlined in the General Service Manual (Australia)

Considerations: CSOs have nothing to do with General Service. They are using what America has done as an example who says America got it right in their interpretation of the Traditions? Tradition 1. Each member of Alcoholics Anonymous is but a small part of a great whole. A.A. must continue to live or most of use will surely die. Hence our common welfare comes first. But individual welfare follows close afterward. Does this promote unity? Tradition 3: Our membership ought to include all who suffer from alcoholism. Hence we may refuse none who wish to recover. Nor ought A.A. membership ever depend upon money or conformity. Any two or three alcoholics gathered together for sobriety may call themselves an A.A. Group, provided that, as a group, they have no other affiliation. Does this promote one problem one solution?

Policies & Admissions Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Policies & Admissions Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be rejected. The Committee recommends that the Board write a letter to the topic submitter supporting them in their initiative and explain that creating an office should be done at local level and that Central Service Offices are not part or the General Service Structure.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:35

A:0

N:0

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 012/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

Proposal for national office to write, print and distribute a flyer or letter for treasurers to take to banks when opening bank accounts for AA business.

Considerations: The only thing you need to do this now is a copy of Endorsement as an income tax exempt charitable entity?

Conference Finance Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that: National Office have available, on request, a flyer or letter for treasurers to take banks when opening bank accounts for AA business. That a guideline of good practices for groups when setting up bank accounts be produced.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:35

A:0

N:0

As Area Instructed:

No

Considerations that changed my Vote: It was shown that not all banks have the same requirements and not all Treasurers know to ask the national office for this info.

TOPIC NO: 013/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

That the two National Coordinators for T&CF and PI&CPC be paid as part-time positions.

Considerations: Can the same person hold both positions? In the current economic climate should we commit AA to financial commitments they may not be able to meet?

Conference Finance Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that the topic suggesting that the two National Coordinators for T&CF and PI/CPC be paid part time positions be rejected.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:24

A:1

N:9

As Area Instructed:

No

Considerations that changed my Vote: It was shown that the $15,000 cost could be doubled with the added cost incurred for employment of staff.

TOPIC NO: 014/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

Is it possible that the pamphlet ‘A Message to Teenagers’ be updated?  We realise it is a New York publication.

Considerations: Need to define what updated means by conference

Literature Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that the topic be rejected. This pamphlet is produced be AA World Services and is a matter for the US/Canada General Service Conference to recommend changes.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:34

A:1

N:0

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 015/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

Conference to look at reproducing/producing literature that is suitable for the culturally diverse population of Australia.  For example – Message to Teenagers is directed towards the Anglo Saxon.  i.e. Schools and Prisons.

Considerations: We do this already What does i.e schools and prisons mean? Are teenagers the same in all cultures or are they different? If different how?

Literature Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that the proposal to reproduce/produce literature suitable for culturally diverse population of Australia be rejected as there is ample literature available.

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:32

A:0

N:3

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 017/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

No

The National Office of Alcoholics Anonymous (NOAA) and the General Service Board (GSB) issue a short-term contract for an individual or group of people to collate the combined experience of the Fellowship in Australia in regard to Public Information and Co-operation with the Professional Community (PI&CPC).  This information could then be packaged into a comprehensive PI&CPC Kit that would be available for Groups, Districts and Areas for use as a consistent base for carrying our important ‘primary purpose’ to the professional community and the general public.

Considerations: If we are going to pay people to do the Job Topic 13 should this not be done by the coordinator as it is part of their Job description. In the current economic climate should we commit AA to financial commitments they may not be able to meet?

PI&CPC Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference PI&CPC Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be rejected. The committee agrees that an updated and comprehensive PI & CPC Kit would be valuable to the fellowship, but a short term contract to produce this is not the solution. We recommend that the PI & CPC committee break down the project into two parts: planning and then execution. The committee undertakes to find and appoint a volunteer project planner from within the fellowship, and once this is done, to find members to carry out the production plan

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:28

A:4

N:3

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 018/2008

How Area C instructed me to vote.

Yes

That National Conventions incorporate a Service Workshop in their programs.

Considerations: We need these answers for the guidelines and if we are passing it we should have input to the answers. How can we do this in a way to get people to the workshop? What would be appropriate topics?

The Conference Report Charter & Service Manual Committee:

Committee’s Recommendation to Conference

The Conference Report Charter & Service Manual Committee recommends to Conference to reject this topic as such, because Conference is not in a position to dictate to Host Planning Committees as to what must be in their programmes. Instead, the Committee recommends that under the heading "Panels & Workshops" on p.83 of GL 015, the first paragraph be amended to read as follows:   Panels & Workshops These provide one of the most rewarding activities and can take a variety of forms. A panel arrangement might comprise three speakers and a chairperson, with each person speaking on a number of Steps, Traditions or Concepts for World Service; the panel session can be followed by a short question and answer session. It is strongly recommended that National Conventions incorporate a Service component in their programmes. Those attending National Conventions would gain from the opportunity to hear of the experience, strength and hope of members who are doing great service in AA and the community. Experience shows, however, that workshops or panels on such topics as "How the National Office works" or "Why have a GSR?" or "What does a Secretary do?" attract only small audiences in a Convention setting. These subjects are better presented at specialised service events, and in that case can be better handled by using National Office staff, utilising their familiarity with AA Australia-wide, while any of our Trustees would be delighted to speak on such topics as "How the General Service Board works" or similar themes."

How Conference Voted

Spit of Vote.

How I Voted

Yes

Y:

A:

N:

As Area Instructed:

Yes

TOPIC NO: 019/2008		How Area C instructed me to vote.			Yes
The General Service Board recommends to Conference that the following paragraphs be added to the National Convention Guidelines: Convention Auditor It is important to note that, as the Convention Audit forms part of the audited accounts of the General Service Board, the Convention Audit should be completed as soon as possible after the Convention and forwarded to the National Office Manager.  The Convention Audit must be completed and in the hands of National Office by the end of July to ensure that the General Service Board accounts are ready for the National Audit. Finance Committee The Finance Committee, with the Treasurer, is responsible to the General Service Board for the on time audit of the Convention accounts and must ensure that the audit is forwarded to the National Office Manager before the end of July to ensure compliance with the Audit of the General Service Board Accounts.
The Conference Report Charter & Service Manual Committee:
Committee’s Recommendation to Conference
The Conference Report Charter & Service Manual Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be accepted in entirety.
How Conference Voted	Spit of Vote.			How I Voted
Yes	Y: 35	A:0	N: 0	As Area Instructed:	Yes

 

TOPIC NO: 020/2008			How Area C instructed me to vote.				Yes
The General Service Board recommends to Conference that the following paragraph be added to the National Convention Guidelines: The Host Planning Committee is encouraged, in consultation with our International Delegates, to consider inviting an indigenous member from a developing country within the Asia/Oceania zone, to attend our National Convention. Funding would come from the International Sponsorship Fund, so there would be no financial burden on the Host Planning Committee.
Considerations: Would interpreters be needed? Where would we get the interpreters from (Australia or their Country) If yes where would funding come from?
International Committee:
Committee’s Recommendation to Conference
The Conference Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be accepted.
How Conference Voted	Spit of Vote.				How I Voted
Yes	Y:35	A:0		N:0	As Area Instructed:			Yes
TOPIC NO: 021/2008			How Area C instructed me to vote.				Yes
The General Service Board recommends to Conference that the sum of $2000 be donated to assist with the running costs of the Asia/Oceania Service Meeting Secretariat.
Considerations:
International Committee:
Committee’s Recommendation to Conference
The Conference Committee recommends to Conference that this topic be accepted.
How Conference Voted	Spit of Vote.				How I Voted
Yes	Y:35	A:0		N:0	As Area Instructed:		Yes
TOPIC NO: 022/2008			How Area C instructed me to vote.				Yes
The General Service Board recommends to Conference that all information contained in non-specific pamphlets for professionals be condensed into one small booklet.  Information contained in the out-of-stock and cumbersome Fact File could be included in this booklet.
Considerations:
Literature Committee:
Committee’s Recommendation to Conference
The Conference Literature Committee recommends to Conference that all information contained in the non-specific pamphlets for professionals be condensed into one small booklet. Information contained in the out-of-stock and cumbersome Fact File could be included in this booklet.
How Conference Voted	Spit of Vote.				How I Voted
Yes	Y:25	A:1		N:8	As Area Instructed:	Yes

 REVIEW OF NATIONAL WEBSITE:

Advisory Action #027A/2001

Conference resolved that the website be reviewed annually at Conference.

Completed by the PI/CPC Committee.

This recommendation by the PI/CPC Committee was voted down: Y:12 A:0 N:23.

Reasons for voting down recommendation:

Currently the Service is only known to AA Members if we link to National Web Site non alcoholics may more easily have access to the site.

With Al-Anon it could be seen as affiliation more than cooperation.

Non Topic Recommendations by Committee’s to Conference:

Finance Committee:

The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that the Financial Accounts for the period 1st July – 30th June 2008 be accepted

Passed - Y:35 A:0 N:0

The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that seed money not be advanced to National Convention Committees until a letter of appointment of an appropriate qualified auditor has been sighted by National Office Management Group. National Conventions audits are necessary in order for the General Service Board audit accounts to be completed. The committee further recommends that this statement be included in the National Convention Guidelines.

Passed - Y:35 A:0 N:0

The Conference Finance Committee recommends to Conference that the budget prepared by the General Service Board be based on the standard financial year from 1^st July to 30^th June and that it be presented to the Conference Financial Committee to approve on behalf of Conference prior to the start of that financial year. Under the current system a calendar year budget, i.e from January to December for the forthcoming year is presented to Conference. However, as with most other businesses, the General Service Board operates on the normal financial year, i.e. the beginning of July to end of June. It is further recommended that this recommendation be added to the Scope of the Conference Finance Committee.

Passed - Y:35 A:0 N:0

Agenda Committee:

The Conference Agenda Committee recommends to Conference that the composition of the Conference Agenda Committee be changed to include one delegate from each region and that the two pre-Conference committee meetings be held via teleconference

Passed - Y:31 A:0 N:4

The Conference Agenda Committee recommends to Conference that the only accommodation expenses covered by the Conference Levies will be accommodation and organised meals. Additional accommodation expenditures is to be at the expense of the Conference member and that the National Office be authorised to send an invoice to a Conference member who has incurred such expense.

Passed - Y:31 A:3 N:1

The Conference Agenda Committee recommends to Conference that observers not be permitted to attend the General Service Conference, unless specifically invited by the Conference. Any applications to attend Conference should be forwarded to the Conference Policies & Admissions Committee, stating reason for wishing to attend. It is suggested that the Trustees’ General Service Conference Committee, in consultation with the Conference Policies & Admissions Committee, produce a set of criteria for admission to the General Service Conference as an observer.

Passed - Y:32 A:3 N:0

New Trustees

GENERAL SERVICE TRUSTEE

Candidate:  Howard Wood (past Area E, Eastern Region Delegate)

Board to notify Conference of candidate elected, then to Conference for disapproval, if any.

CENTRAL REGIONAL TRUSTEE

Candidate:  Paul Dennes (past Area A, Central Region Delegate)

Floor Actions.

1. "That conference recommend that the GSB investigate the establishment of a single national AA phone line."

Passed

2. It is proposed in the interest of Unity, that Conference directs the General Service Board to relist the telephone number of the Melbourne Central Service Office on the national website and in AA Around Australia, by February 2009, provided that the concerns of Conference are addressed

It is anticipated that in February 2009, the Unity Working Party will have given their recommendations to the CSO Reps. This will allow the time needed for the CSO Reps in Victoria to meet & vote on the proposals & recommendations.

Passed

Advisory Actions Progress.

Advisory Action #040/2007 – Noted. Advisory Action #041/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #042/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #043/2007 Completed. Advisory Action #015/2007 – On Management Groups permanent action list. Advisory Action #016/2007 – In Progress working party to be formed, guideline brought back to Conference 2009. Advisory Action #017/2007 - No action required by General Service Board. Advisory Action #023/2007 – Noted relevant documents changed. Advisory Action #036/2007 – Noted no action required. Advisory Action #037/2007 – Noted no action required. Advisory Action #003/2007 – In progress draft copy shown to Conference more changes required back in 2009. Advisory Action #007/2007 Refer recommendation from General Service Board (Topic 022). Advisory Action #009/2007 – Noted. Advisory Action #038/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #045/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #046/2007 – In progress. Advisory Action #047/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #034/2007 – In progress T&CF Coordinator to Report. Advisory Action #022/2007 – In progress. Advisory Action #004/2007 – In progress. Advisory Action #021/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #026/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #027/2007 – In progress. Advisory Action #031/2007 (a) In progress (b) Completed. Advisory Action #039/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #029/2007 – Completed. Advisory Action #035/2007 - Completed. Advisory Action #047/2007 – Completed document changed.

Next Years General Conference Theme is: Is your Group in the LOOP.

Yours in Service

Jim K

Area C Eastern Region (NSW, ACT)

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