As we approach the second half of the year it is important to report to Members on the company’s financial performance over the last six months of 2006. The company’s unaudited half-year financial results until December 31, 2006 show a stronger than expected operating profit of $4 million (before investment income and changes in investment values). This is an increase of over $14 million from the half year ending December 31, 2005. Our company’s stronger financial position has been achieved thanks to a growth in operating revenue by 38%.

These results show that NRMA’s financial position remains solid and that we can continue to reinvest in services and benefits for all our Members. 

We expect to make a strong operating profit for the full year taking into account our investment income.

I am pleased to announce a new acquisition for NRMA in Adventure World, which is a market leader in Australia and New Zealand in wholesale travel packages.

NRMA’s majority shareholding in Adventure World (see page 38 of the magazine) means that we can now use Adventure World’s expertise to organise a broader range of Member travel packages, like our popular trip to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day.

This is a sound investment that will provide NRMA with a strong return and enable us to design the type of holidays our Members love.

We will soon be announcing more investments that will deliver even more benefits to our Members.

Half-a-million people visited the NRMA Motorfest display of 800 vintage vehicles on Australia Day.

It’s now 22 years since NRMA first held Motorfest. It was a great sight to see thousands of families walking around the city carrying their NRMA Motorfest balloons. I had an opportunity to meet many of our Members at the NRMA Member Cafe and it was clear from talking to them that they are thrilled that NRMA is playing such a big part in the Australia Day festivities.

To tie in with Motorfest, NRMA held its first-ever ‘Celebration of Motoring’ dinner, which brought together many of the people who have partnered with us over the years to service motorists. More than 350 people attended the night and we hope to make the dinner an annual event.

Thank you!

Tony Stuart CEO