Bruce Glass has a big history behind him that im sure you choose to ignore. He did the club he belonged to no service, but this is not the arena to speak poorly of him.

The facts are Phill, the NZACA was broke, had it continued, we would have been running at a loss and changes were needed and still are, however they are a work in progress. What was in place did not work, numbers declined rapidly over the past 5 years both in attendance and within the association. These are all facts you guys fail to ascertain.

The NZACA are actually very approachable. If you want to attend a meeting, and that goes for everyone, particular those with concerns and questions, I sincerely encourage it. Very open minded discussion are had.

The biggest problem the NZACA face is negative behavior and unfounded attacks. Although there was 100 people at the National, the feedback was excellent. Feedback was sought after the nationals and added to the process for the way forward. If you see something you don't like, why not make a positive of it and turn up to the meeting, request speaking rights and voice your opinion. Even better, if you feel you can make a difference, make a bid for an executive member, or present your idea. Some have in the past and they have fallen on deaf ears, but I can vouch for those who drive the ship like Yoey, he is very genuine and incredibly approachable. Yoey is a guy who puts his hart and sole into and does exceedingly good deeds for this association un-noticed.

Some people are very very quick to judge and pass comments without rationalizing facts, figures and analyzing everything infront of them. What was in place was not working, and the NZACA would not be alive another 12 months had it not taken another path. To be honest, what is currently on the table may not be 100% correct, it may not suit everyone, but we are putting in allot of time, allot of our own money to get there and doing our best to make things happen.

We don't get paid to go to these meetings, and for some of us we have to use annual leave, that leave would be much better spent being selfish and going fishing sometimes, but instead its our way of giving back. For me its over 10 hours on a round trip driving.

Changes to the casting were put in place for the Nationals so EVERYONE could cast with their fishing gear. With the exception of braid the rules are very simple which does bring an enjoyment factor to it. This change from the feedback I heard from those attending was all positive. If a majority felt it wasn't, it would not be the case, however we have to go with the majority and try to include and embrace as many clubs as possible, not just the elite. It is clearly stated that those who still want to cast under those rules can do so. The change is purely implemented to include more fisherman to have a go.

I can honestly say ive had my fair share of cracks at the NZACA on social media. From a positive aspect I accomplished nothing and learned a few lessons. If anyone wants to make a difference, help or believe they have a good idea...... Please, put your voice forward, contact any member on the NZACA through the NZACA web page and make a go of it. You will be pleasantly surprised at the response.

Just remember when your being negative and having an un-constructive crack, we are just like you, we are all fisherman and we do it for the love of it.

Chur

PS: Phill you need to get out fishing bro.........................