The OACT Board met on 30 June to progress strategic projects and prepare for the upcoming spring and summer event seasons.
Strategic Focus
The Board discussed the sustainability of the organisation, with particular attention to volunteer and paid staff turnover. John Shelton Agar will oversee equipment management in the lead-up to the 2026 major events. A controller training session will be held later this year to help accredit new officials, particularly for Level 1 and 2 roles. The Board is also reviewing OACT’s representation on Orienteering Australia (OA) committees to ensure our interests are well covered.
Governance and Compliance
OACT is working toward compliance with ACT Sport & Recreation’s updated criteria for State Sporting Organisation status. The key areas of focus include:
- Lifting membership numbers (currently 409 paid members)
- Demonstrating financial sustainability
- Completing a child safety self-assessment by end of 2025
A halfway review will be undertaken to identify any gaps early. OACT will also establish a Risk, Audit and Finance Management Committee, aligning with national sport governance expectations.
Grants and Development Opportunities
The ACT Government’s Participation and Workforce Development grant for 2026 is now open. Funding of $35,000 is likely, pending submission of quotes and plans. Potential initiatives include:
- Courses for organisers, controllers, and setters
- Presentations on inclusion and safety
- Remote First Aid training
- A marketing and communications strategy
Participation and Promotions
The Winter Sprint Series is underway but facing low turnout. The Board is considering how to grow participation without overlapping with other sprint formats. Social media promotion continues, and pricing models including “First 3 Free” will be discussed at the next meeting.
Mapping
All maps for Oceania 2025 have now been allocated. David Stocks confirmed that Frederik Johansen will map Honeysuckle Creek.
Technology and Entry Systems
The Board discussed Entry-on-Day (EOD) pricing. There was general support for aligning EOD and online entry pricing. Final decisions will be made in the August meeting.
Next Meeting
📅 Monday, 25 August 2025