In last year’s Open Road I talked of the terrible tsunami that devastated many parts of South-East Asia in 2004. The horrific disaster that cost hundreds of thousands of innocent lives shocked us all, and NRMA’s board and management decided then that we would do whatever we could to help.
NRMA’s staff kicked off our contribution by donating generously – their money was matched by the Company. We also donated a tow truck to our sister club in Sri Lanka that could be used initially in the clean-up and relief effort, and then as part of the club’s regular service to Members.
Twelve months on and NRMA is now looking at other ways to help in the long-term rebuilding process.
I have asked our Travel department to establish Helping Hand Tours to countries affected by the disaster so people can visit the regions and volunteer in the rebuilding process.
One of the tours will be organised so that you can help to rebuild homes in Galle, one of the most devastated areas in Sri Lanka. The itinerary will also give you ample opportunity to experience this stunning region and support local tourism.
Our Club Tours have always been popular with our Members – and now we hope to be able to help you see a beautiful part of the world and play a part in rebuilding the region. If you want to register your interest for any Helping Hand Tours you can call NRMA Travel on 13 11 22.
We hope to offer you many new initiatives in 2006. One of the key ones is the free2go benefit for drivers aged 17 and 18. It concerns me that the children of our Members are getting behind the wheel and sometimes driving without the protection and safety provided by NRMA’s Roadside Assistance. Some of our longest serving Members told me that their parents made them join NRMA on the day they got their licence “just in case”.
Today, thanks to our rejuvenated financial position, we are providing young drivers with this new package free for one year and half price the following year under free2go, which will be launched mid-year.
Finally, I am delighted with the great feedback I have received from our Members about Motorfest. It has been a tremendous success and the response from Members to the activities available on the day has been overwhelming. I thank our staff who gave up their public holiday to make this such a success. I hope we see even more Members there next year.
Best wishes,
Tony Stuart CEO
