The principles associated with good governance broadly apply to not-for-profit organisations as much as they do the for-profit or commercial sector.
To inform volunteers who make themselves available to hold positions on community groups Bundaberg Regional Council is assisting with the roll-out of governance workshops for not-for-profit organisations across the region in early November.
Council’s community services spokesperson, Cr Tracey McPhee, said it was understandable that many community groups did not fully comprehend the importance of good governance principles in their organisations.
“They are generally focussed on delivering outcomes for their members and the community and possibly are not fully aware of their responsibilities as board or committee members,” Cr McPhee said.
“It is clear that there are responsibilities resting with boards and committees as far as decision making, financial transactions recording or keeping appropriate information for audit purposes.
“These free governance workshops supported by the Queensland Government with the help of Council, provide a step-by-step easy to understand pathway to good governance.
“Not-for-profit community groups play such a vital role within our region and these workshops are a means by which a lot of the worry can be removed from committee or board participation simply through shared knowledge.
“The course, which runs for three hours, is comprehensive and covers important areas of effective meeting procedure, confidentiality, reporting, grants and sponsorship responsibilities and keeping members informed.”
A Gin Gin workshop will be held on Monday, 2 November at the Community Hub, phone 4130 4630; Childers on Tuesday, 3 November at the Isis Cultural Centre, phone 4130 4690; and in Bundaberg at the Multiplex on Wednesday, 4 November, phone 4130 4150.
The event is free, but bookings are required for catering and for the handout of takeaway information packs.
Cr McPhee encouraged members clubs and organisations to participate.
“The information gained from these workshops can be shared with other members,” she said.
“This may encourage people who are otherwise be reluctant to accept club leadership roles to understand there is a structure to the manner in which the club can successfully operate.”
