I hope all our Members have enjoyed a safe Christmas with their families and a great start to the New Year. At the close of 2006, a significant road safety victory was secured for our Members. After years of lobbying by NRMA, a comprehensive school zone safety package was announced by the NSW Government. By the time the school starts, the Government has committed to place new road safety devices – either a change in road conditions or flashing lights – at more than 100 schools across NSW.

In December, NRMA was extremely disappointed that the State Government had awarded helicopter medical retrieval services to a Canadian company instead of NRMA CareFlight.

At the time of Open Road going to press, NRMA was fighting hard to keep the management of this essential emergency service in the hands of the community – and not a commercial business.

In 2007, we will continue to fight for better roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles. NRMA is the main voice for young drivers around the ongoing debate of young driver deaths.

Our position on the State Government’s Advisory Panel will ensure that we can work towards changes that will help save lives but are also fair, practical and enforceable.

NRMA is looking at growing its investments in travel, holidays and resorts. Ultimately, it will mean even more exclusive benefits for our Members.

We will look to grow our businesses in exciting new areas, while delivering a strong balance sheet in order to maintain our current financial stability.

This Australia Day, NRMA will be staging NRMA Motorfest for the 22nd year.

Last year’s Motorfest near Hyde Park proved a huge hit with our Members – the vintage car display, Mobile Member Centre and other displays all drew enormous crowds.

The NRMA Member cafe was available last year for the first time and almost 2000 Members took advantage of the cafe to get a drink and rest.

These popular attractions will be at NRMA Motorfest again this year. I hope to see you there.

Thank you for belonging to NRMA throughout 2006. We are committed to making 2007 our best year ever.