This Presidents report ends a busy year for us with plenty of activities sponsored by or run by the Otago & Southland Association, and its sub branch in Invercargill, which continues to provide activities for members in Invercargill. A great job everyone. 

Since the last Presidents Report the association has held a “Picture Search”, run the August Camp, run a Charity Auction in conjunction with our Annual August Moon Dinner and the various sub committees and groups have been busy as well dealing with maintenance issues and financial matters.

I was lucky enough to attend the 2011 August Camp where a group of younger people gathered to share fellowship and for many of them, test themselves in new situations. I am pleased to report that I think we provided a good mix of fun, challenge, and that those that attended had a great time and received some measure of benefit from the camp.

The August Moon Dinner was well attended and around $5000.00 was raised in support of the New Zealand Chinese Associations goal to help with the Christchurch Earthquake. Thank you to all those who purchased tickets or bid on the items that were kindly donated.

We also held a Car Picture Search with an afternoon tea provided…read more about this in the newsletter.

The Lion Dance Team has been performing at venues all around Otago this year and have impressed each time. We have a very good team able to provide an exciting performance with a variety of dedicated group of young performers. The highlight this year was being asked to perform by the DCC for the official Rugby World Cup welcoming ceremonies for the English and Argentinian teams as an illustration of Dunedin’s multicultural background.  I think this reinforces the belief by council the importance of the contribution Chinese make in the community.

I am extremely proud of the Lion Dance Team and the way they have represented OSCA at their performances.

By the time you receive this newsletter, our AGM will have been held and a new committee formed. We are about to begin planning for Christmas breakup, Chinese New Year, Orientation Week, and Easter which will be in Auckland next year.

Keep your eyes open for notices next year or check our website.

Have a great Christmas and New Year!