Adelaide Rowing Club - The First Hundred Years

28. Pity the Poor Hon. Secretary!

Some of the duties required in each season of the Secretary of a rowing club: -

• Write to members whose subs are due, and again if overdue;
• Write to new members advising their election;
• Write to Patron, President, Vice-Presidents etc. each season advising their election;
• Write up the Minutes of all committee and general meetings;
• Write Annual Report for A.G.M., making sure all facts are correct;
• Write to parents, brothers, sons etc. letters of condolence on deaths;
• Write to kindred clubs answers to invitations, or issue same to them;
• Write to kindred club secretaries requesting regatta entries, return of cups etc.;
• Write to all members informing them of meetings, concerts, dances etc.;
• Write to insurance companies to renew policies on boats, premises etc.;
• Write to Police reporting damage, thefts etc.;
• Write begging letters to all and sundry to raise funds for boats etc.;
• Write to influential persons inviting them to Opening Day, dinners, Christmas etc.;
• Write to ladies to help with suppers, afternoon teas etc.;
• Write to boatbuilders requesting quotes, sending specifications etc.;
• Write answers to queries from kindred clubs, Fire Brigade, City Council etc.;
• Write reports of regattas, other functions, disorderly conduct etc.;
• Prepare lists of members, keep lists up to date, e.g., winning crews and details;
• Arrange keys or access to tradesmen, suppliers of liquor, sponsored rowers;
• Arrange repairs to boats, trailers, fixtures and fittings;
• Clear the post box regularly and buy stamps, post letters;
• Arrange for printing of rules, fixture cards, annual report etc. ETC.