Director's AGM Report

It is amazing how quickly 12 months pass. In a volunteer based centre we face the problem of the coming and going of personnel, so I am pleased that we have maintained stability over the last 12 months in terms of people and finances. This has been achieved by a number of changes in 2010: the incredible support by friends and members in fundraising, and the social events as well as the well stocked bookshop and gift shop.

We have reduced expenses dramatically by having no paid office staff, and Centrelink providing rent assistance for Geshela. We are extremely fortunate to have an experienced student and founding member such as Lyndy Abram for our SPC. Assisted by her SPC committee, and the meditation leaders who week after week came along to lead the sessions, all these people produced a robust program. In addition, I wish to pay tribute to the many regular helpers who are the heart and soul of the centre.

The finances have been well managed by Sue Johanson and Cathy Davis, who have combined brilliantly to do all the behind the scenes work that are essential for Buddha House to financially exist.

Katrin Rehder and Kerry Headley have developed into a reliable and formidable team to organise our social events. Katrin and Malgosia have taken on the gift shop with enthusiasm and flair, and hopefully some opportunity will arise to relocate the gift shop to a more public setting. Hiliary Marshall continues to run the bookshop with her usual flair, as well as host school visits. The office volunteers continue to be our public face, with Helen recruiting and giving them support. Lee and Anna have worked hard to update the catalogues in the library.

2011 promises to be a year of further changes as we regretfully part with our teacher, Geshe Pema Tsering and search for a replacement. Geshela has taught faithfully for over 8 years at BH, and so it is with regret that the teaching relationship has finished. We all wish him well and owe him immense gratitude. The Board has undertaken to continue supporting Geshela, who with Anthony‘s Sweeney support will be able to stay in their present residence for at least the next 12 months. We also wish our translator Rodrigo much happiness in his chosen direction.

In 2011 we have much to do. Our search for a new teacher to base our teaching program will present many challenges. In the meantime we will increase members‘ awareness of our connection with our parent organisation the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT) and all the wonderful work and opportunities that it presents. This global relationship includes opportunities for new exciting online learning and several worthwhile projects skilfully established by our Spiritual Director Lama Zopa Rinpoche.

Finally I am especially thrilled to announce that we will be running Buddha‘s Bowl at Womadelaide in March 11th – 14th 2011. We will be asking for willing helpers in what will be a rewarding experience. This as well as our social events, will unify the community spirit and enable many new friendships.

In conclusion, I could not be director without the support of a strong Board, as well as my partner Helen, who has played an invaluable part in enabling me to work full time and be aware of issues at Buddha House.

A very special thank you to all the people who have generously donated time and money without any public recognition.

So thank you again and wish you all a peaceful and happy New Year.

With much love,

George Manos
Director