ALFA Admits 500th Member

The admission of the Southwest Sports Centre in Bunbury, Western Australia, marks a membership milestone for the Australian Leisure Facilities Association (ALFA).

After only six months of operations the Southwest Sports Centre is the new Association's 500th member.

Cameron Woods (pictured above), the facility's Centre Manager explains what membership of ALFA means for him and his organisation.

Question: "Why did you choose to join ALFA?"
Cameron Woods: "To be part of a truly national representative organisation that covers all facets of the recreation industry, in the hope that policy development can be influenced by such a body."

Q: "What support would you most like to see from ALFA for your organisation?"
CW: "A national approach to industry awards and conditions for staff and to addressing rising energy costs and climate change for our industry; and best Practice and knowledge sharing for our industry."

Q: "What benefits do you see in having a national association for the industry?"
CW: "The ability to influence policy development in areas such as preventative health and the role that recreation and aquatic centres can play in building healthier individuals and communities; and

"Increasing the profile of the industry with all levels of government and highlighting the ability of the industry to deliver real and cost effective, health and social outcomes."

Q: "What industry issues would you like to see ALFA address?"
CW: "A National Award for indoor and outdoor recreation, aquatic and health and fitness centres; increased funding/incentives for sustainability initiatives of existing facilities; and recognition by Government that more emphasis should be applied to preventative health and education measures via existing not-for-profit facilities, particularly for lower socio economic and those at greatest risk (mental and physical) in our community by way of rebates."

Q: "Is there anything else you would like to see ALFA offer its membership?
CW: "Trend analysis, best practice information and professional development opportunities."

Cameron Woods has a Bachelor of Applied Science - Recreation and has significant experience within the industry, including:

• Manager South West Sports Centre City Of Bunbury (2007 to present);
• Manager Bunbury Turf Club (2003-2007) - Silver Award Winner WA Tourism Council Festival and Events 2006; and
• Manager Leschenault Leisure Centre (1991-2003) - Winner best managed Regional Facility 1993 and Best Managed State Facility 1995.

Cameron Woods is employed by The City of Bunbury under a direct management model after seven years of contract management. Cameron and his team have increased visitations to 500,000 per annum; expense recovery 88%; 2,500 members; labour costs to total receipts 66%.

For more information go the ALFA website at www.alfaleisure.org.au 

2nd September 2009 - ALFA JOINS WITH AUSTRALASIAN LEISURE MANAGEMENT

6th May 2009 - LEISURE FACILITIES ASSOCIATION SET TO LAUNCH