Record results and management changes at Lakes Leisure

Queenstown-based Lakes Leisure has reported an 8% increase in participation numbers for the year ended 30th June 2012, recording 685,635 visits to its facilities in the 2011/2012 financial year.
Since 2007, the Queenstown Events Centre has grown from attracting 98,000 visitors to attracting 443,000 in the most recent year while, across the district, Lakes Leisure participation numbers have grown from 460,000 in 2009 to its 2011/12 numbers
An Operating Surplus of $61,569 was recorded for the 2011/2012 year representing funds available for future reinvestment in programmes, services or community assets.
Since announcing the results, Chief Executive Fiona McKissock has resigned after four years in the role.
Reviewing what is the largest people business in the Queenstown area, McKissock explained "the growth has been phenomenal and it's time for a good look at how the organisation is best structured to be sustainable and to serve the community well."
Since joining Lakes Leisure in September 2008, McKissock has led the organisation through a list of achievements including opening the $18 million Alpine Aqualand, increasing revenue year-on-year, and reducing reliance on ratepayer funding.
While Lakes Leisure searches for a replacement, Angus Crawford has been appointed acting Chief Executive, taking up his position from today (Wednesday 19th September).
In concluding remarks about the performance of Lakes Leisure, McKissock added "four years in, Lakes Leisure is achieving its goals, delivering on Council agreed objectives and effectively engaging the community in sport and recreation across the district. Our participation numbers within aquatics, health and fitness and community sports continue to grow despite the ongoing challenges of doing so within facilities that are operating at capacity during peak hours. We reviewed our vision early in 2012 to 'A vibrant, healthy community' and Lakes Leisure is certainly making a significant contribution to the achievement of that goal."
A copy of the Lakes Leisure Annual Report can be downloaded at

http://www.lakesleisure.co.nz