President's Message

The 2007-2008 year has been another wonderful year to be involved with the Brisbane Development Association's (BDA) activities. The BDA Council, still buoyed by the Association's 50th anniversary celebrations, has continued to bring to the membership (and their guests) an extensive array of thought provoking and convivial events: these are documented in the following pages.

My observations of this time, reinforced by member, guest and VIP feedback, highlight the increasingly important role the BDA plays in being one of Brisbane's most staunchly independent bodies, and also one of Brisbane's best networking vehicles. Our independence and freedom from having to promote and evaluate sectoral interests, means that we have steadily grown out of our 'ask the hard questions' approach. In 2008 the BDA set the tone, title and topics for our regular seminars, presented the speakers we wanted to hear, and strode out on our evolving journey into leadership of this great city.

I have been delighted with the way in which the BDA Council has embraced our focus themes for the year design excellence in retrofitting Brisbane, increasing housing choice in Brisbane, and providing a point of independent leadership for the city. Our monthly luncheons, breakfasts and other special events were designed to reflect these themes.

Whilst our BDA Council is comprised of a diverse and dedicated group, there are a few individuals I would like to acknowledge at this time, as their contributions have been of great assistance to me. John Pettit, the association's Executive Director is surely one of Brisbane's most wonderful characters and hardest working ambassadors. I'm eternally indebted to John for his efforts, humour and attentiveness. David Thomas, our Immediate Past President, has continued to generously host the Executive Committee meetings. His sound counsel has been invaluable and inscrutable. Chris Skelton continues to keep our finances in great shape, and Lorelei Broadbent's secretarial services are invaluable. And at the risk of leaving someone out, I'd like to note the erstwhile contributions by Ann Rainbow, Tanya Neville, Andrew Batts, Bill Grant, and Michelle Lee.

I look forward to an even better 2008-2009, and ask you to join me in helping the BDA to continue creating a better Brisbane.

MARK DOONAR
President