Bicycle Network: Board & Governance

Statement of Vacancy

In 2011 three seats on the Board will fall vacant

In the final year of their term: Jeremy Brand (Last elected 2010). Jeremy is completing the final term of a 2008 seat. Simon Crone (Last elected 2008) Helen Millicer (Last elected 2008)
In the second year of their term: Eytan Lenko (Last elected 2009), Tony Maughan (Last elected 2009), Ruth Paterson (Last elected 2009)
In the first year of their term: Rick Barry (Last elected 2010), Catherine James (Last elected 2010), Janice Simpson (Last elected 2010)

Call for nominations

Insight and foresight
The Board is responsible for Bicycle Network Victoria’s purpose, values, strategies, goals and objectives. Board members must develop understanding of the strategic context enabling effective monitoring of the organisation and its ability to respond to changing external environments.

Oversight
The Board is the ultimate authority in Bicycle Network Victoria and each member of the Board is responsible for Bicycle Network Victoria’s controls. These responsibilities are substantial and include law, regulations and internal controls as well as organisational liability and risk management.

Candidates
The Board seeks candidates with demonstrated skills and experience relevant to these two high level responsibilities. The Board also seeks to complement the skills, background and experience of its current members.

Contact us
Please send us a message from our website www.bv.com.au or call (03) 8376 8888 if you are thinking of standing. We will send you a prospective candidate’s pack with all the relevant forms and rules as well as information about the candidate briefing.

Deadlines
Nominations open 22 August 2011. Complete and valid original nomination forms must be received by 5pm Friday 16 September 2011. To be eligible to stand for election, nominate and vote in the Board election, Bicycle Network Victoria members must be financial when nominations close.

Preparing for nomination

This book is strongly recommended to those considering standing for the Board of Bicycle Network Victoria.

The book is the result of solid research into effective not for profit organisations in the United States.

The book is available from the authors' website and other booksellers.

To quote the authors:

What the authors discovered after closely examining these high-impact nonprofits came as a surprise. They initially assumed that there was something inherent to these organizations that led to great impact—and that success was directly tied to organizational growth or management. Instead, they learned that becoming a high-impact nonprofit is not just about building a great organization, and then expanding it to reach more people. Rather, high-impact nonprofits work with and through other organizations and individuals to create more impact than they could have ever achieved alone.

High-impact nonprofits build social movements and fields; they transform business, government, other nonprofits, and individuals; and they change the world around them. In the end, six patterns crystallized into the form presented here—the six practices that high-impact nonprofits use to achieve extraordinary impact.

These nonprofits:

- Work with government and advocate for policy change
- Harness market forces and see business as a powerful partner
- Convert individual supporters into evangelists for the cause
- Build and nurture nonprofit networks, treating other groups as allies
- Adapt to the changing environment
- Share leadership, empowering others to be forces for good

In addition, high-impact nonprofits have also mastered the basics needed to sustain their impact: attracting and retaining great people; finding sustainable sources of funding; and investing in their infrastructure and capacity.

To read more about, and understand each of these six practices, we encourage you to buy the book. In it you’ll find a much more detailed description of each practice, along with compelling examples of how the 12 high-impact nonprofits employ them in order to have more impact. Each chapter also includes tips for beginning to implement the practice in your own organization.

Formal notice of election 2011

The Bicycle Victoria Incorporated Board has 9 positions. Each year 3 of the 9 positions become vacant after their 3-year terms expire. 3 positions on the Bicycle Victoria Incorporated Board become vacant this year.

• This year the positions held by Simon Crone, Helen Millicer and Jeremy Brand have become vacant.
• The remaining 6 current Board members are Ruth Paterson, Janice Simpson, Rick Barry, Eytan Lenko, Catherine James and Tony Maughan.
• A call for nominations was placed in August Ride On® and 10 nominations were received by the close of nominations at 5pm Friday 16 September 2011.
• All current adult members 18 years old and over as at 5pm Friday 16 September 2011 are eligible to vote.
• Voting opens: 9am AEDST, 26 September 2011
• Voting closes: 5pm AEDST, 28 October 2011
• The results will be tallied by everyonecounts.com, who are appointed by the Returning Officer for the election.The results of the election will be announced at the 2011 Bicycle Network Victoria Annual General Meeting. For details on the 2011 AGM, see this issue of Ride On®, or www.bv.com.au (Search: Annual General Meeting).
• At the 2011 Annual General Meeting the three candidates with the most votes will be declared elected for the three-year terms.

Election Ballot Regulation: Under clause 32.3 of the Constitution the Board has determined that the ballot will be conducted by the internet company Everyone Counts

FAQ's about the 2011 Board Election

How many positions are vacant?

The Bicycle Network Victoria Board has 9 positions. Each year 3 of the 9 positions become vacant after their 3-year terms expire.
See the Statement of vacancy for who is standing and who is continuing on the Board

How do members become candidates?

A call for nominations was placed in August Ride On® and 10 valid nominations were received by the close of nominations at 5pm Friday 16 September 2011.

Which candidates get elected?

the 3 candidates with the most votes will be declared elected for the 3 year terms

Which members get to vote?

All members that are paid up and 18 years and over can cast a vote for each vacant position.
Each adult member in a family membership has a separate vote.
The electoral roll is all current adult (18 and over) members as at 5pm Friday 16 September 2011.

When do the polls open and close?

Voting opens: 9am AEDST, 26 September 2011
Voting closes: 5pm AEDST, 28 October 2011

Who runs the polling booth and counts the votes?

The polling booth and the counting is run by everyonecounts.com
The returning officer for the election is Martin Fensome.

When will we know the result?

The results of the election will be announced at the 2011 Bicycle Network Victoria Annual General Meeting.

How to cast your vote in the election

Step 1: Learn about the candidates

Each candidate has submitted a statement in which they outline their motivation, experience on Boards, qualifications, current employment and other relevant details. These statements are published here.
From that web page you can download a pdf document that contains all the statements or read them online.
When you have made up your mind, make a note of the candidates you have chosen and go to step 2
Step 2: Login into Blink, our Members only area

When you are ready to vote, log on to Blink
Each adult member of a family membership needs to log on separately.
You will need to enter your Rider number and either your date of birth or the email address we know you by.
Your rider number is on your membership card, the email newsletter In the loop and the address page of this edition of Ride On. If you are stuck call us and we’ll sort it out 1800 639 634
Step 3: Click the Vote button to go into the ‘polling booth’

Inside Blink you will see the Vote button. Click this button and answer the security question.
If you don’t know your security question or answer, call us.
Step 4: Fill out your on-line ballot paper

If you are eligible to vote the software will take you to the ‘polling booth’ run by everyone counts.
If you are not eligible, you may not have renewed in time for example, you will be told why the system says you are not eligible.

When you are in the ‘booth’ you will be shown the on-line ballot paper for the 2011 Board election
In the booth you will be able to review information about each candidate by clicking a link next to their name.
Choose the candidates you want to vote for and click ‘Continue’
You will be shown a summary of your choices. You can go ‘Back’ from the summary to change your choice.
At this stage you can log off and return to the booth at another time.
Once you press Submit you vote is cast and you won’t be able to enter the booth again.
For assistance with anything in Step 4 email: helpdesk@everyonecounts.com

Candidates:

Geoff Schomburgk

1. Personal Statement
Geoff is a recreational cyclist and commuter with extensive business experience in developing, executing and governing strategy. Having also served on community sporting club committees, Geoff will support the participation in cycling for all ages, improve rider safety and can bring international “best practice” experiences to Bicycle Victoria.

2. Motivation to stand for the Bicycle Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
I see my participation on the Board of Bicycle Victoria as an opportunity to contribute to the continued growth and development of the cycling community in Victoria, by encouraging greater participation for cyclists of all ages and specifically to support the ongoing improvement of safety initiatives for cyclists.

In business, I have over 20 years of international experience, and will bring to the Board skills and in the development of business strategies, execution of change programs and governance of major projects. Inherent in this is my ability to manage both teams and diverse stakeholders. I have successfully applied these skills in the context of a large multinational organization as well as for local community sports clubs.

My international experience and travels offer the opportunity to capture and share current cycling related issues and best practices from cities around the world, such as London, Stockholm and Singapore.

3. Previous Experience of Boards/Committees

4. Board governance qualifications and experience or any other relevant qualifications and experience
• Senior member of the global corporate strategy team for large multinational organization (Ericsson) since 2009;
• Committee experience with several community non profit sports organizations, 2004-2009;
• Specific experience in the development of the leadership and governance frameworks to support the execution of the organizational strategy;
• Undertaken governance roles of large, multimillion dollar IT&T infrastructure projects;
• Senior management experience, both within Australia and internationally; and
• Formal business qualification (M.B.A.).

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organization’s strategic direction
Ericsson is a global company employing more than 40,000 people, with operations in 175 countries and annual turnover in excess of $30BUSD. I have been a senior member of Ericsson’s global corporate strategy team (Headquarters in Sweden) since 2009.

In this role I am based in Melbourne and support the executive management teams of Ericsson entities across Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South East Asia and Australia/New Zealand) to formulate the business strategy for their market conditions, then prioritise and execute strategic programs, using a structured change management methodology.

The role requires the development (and documentation) of methodologies and best practices for the complete strategy cycle; setting the strategy, aligning the stakeholders, executing key initiatives and tracking the performance. I have developed leadership and governance guidelines in relation to strategy and strategy execution and delivered several tutorials on these topics.

In the role I also act as coach/mentor for senior managers in the strategy community across Asia Pacific to support the execution of specific initiatives across a diverse market.
6. Current Employment – organisation, job title
Director of Strategy Management, Asia Pacific for Ericsson.

7. Optional additional statement
Married to Stacey for 20 years, with two teenage children, Mitch 18 and Connor 14.

Tony Duff

1. Personal Statement
As a regular commuter and recreational cyclist, I have developed a passion for cycling. My enthusiasm for improving the cycling experience for all the cycling community, together with my experience in corporate governance and internal controls, will enable me to be an effective and valued contributor to the Board.

2. Motivation to Stand for the Bicycle Network Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
Bicycle Victoria Network is an organisation that has values that closely align to my own. By standing for the Board I hope to have the opportunity to be an active part in making a positive impact on the community to make cycling a normal part of life for everyone.
In recent years, having gone from certified couch potato to a regular commuter cyclist riding from the Outer Eastern Suburbs to the CBD, I have gained a strong appreciation of the health and environmental benefits of cycling. I often wonder why I didn’t take up cycling earlier! By understanding what the barriers are that prevent more people to cycle more often, we can begin to break them down and make it easier for everyone in the community to incorporate cycling in their lives whether for fun, transport, health or environmental sustainability.
Since getting of the couch for my first commute to work I have successfully completed 5 around the bays and 3 Great Victorian Bike rides. I have also enjoyed riding with my young son on a tag along on a couple of other organised rides around Melbourne.
As a Finance professional for over 20 years working locally and internationally in both the Construction and Energy Sectors, I have had the opportunity to either participate on boards or work closely with them. I have a broad range of commercial skills and experience, and a strong corporate governance background gained as a Financial Controller and more recently as an in Internal Auditor.

4. Board Governance Qualifications and Experience or any other Relevant Qualifications
• Company Directors Diploma, Institute of Company Directors (2010)
• Grad Certificate Fraud Investigation, La Trobe (2009)
• Masters of Business Administration (MBA) University of New England (2003)
• Grad Diploma of Business (Accounting) Monash (1992)
• Bachelor of Business, (Economics/Administration) Monash (1986)
Member Australian Institute of Internal Auditors
Member CPA Australia

5. Previous Experience in setting and guiding an organisations Strategic Direction.
As an Executive Director of Yallourn energy (now TRUenergy) I was jointly responsible for setting the strategic direction of a $2b Energy utility company.
In my various commercial management roles I have been directly responsible for the strategic direction of my department and or business unit.

6. Current Employment – Organisation
I am currently the General Manager of Internal Audit at TRUenergy.

Simon Crone

1. Personal Statement
As President I work with a great team to create a better environment for cyclists. My passion: to make cycling part of everyday life, a valid & safe transport and recreation choice. I work to ensure a strong vibrant organisation to deliver a better outcome for existing and future cyclists.

2. Motivation to stand for the Board including what you will bring if you are elected
There are many reasons I have offered myself to continue my service to cyclists, however, the one that sticks with me is personified by a cyclist who I met at Ride to Work Day several years ago. He came up to me and asked if I was anything to do with Bicycle Victoria and I said I was and asked why. He said he wanted to thank us for saving his life. He had been diagnosed with cancer and started riding to help him through his chemotherapy and recovery. He had come through his treatment and was in remission. He put his successful remission down to his cycling and the support he got from the organisation to get him started. Needless to say at that moment I knew if I could continue to help create an environment where just one person could have a similar outcome I would feel I had added to something important.
I know I can continue to add value as a part of the team helping to make these things possible and would value that opportunity.

3. Previous experience on Board & Committees

Includes current positions but excludes Bicycle Victoria included unter item 4

4. Board governance qualifications and experience
FCA, CPA, BCom, DipSM
Nine years on the Bicycle Victoria Board, Committees (including the Constitution Committee, Remuneration Committee, Audit & Risk Committee, Board Renewal Committee) and Board working Groups (including Strategy Development and Beyond Victoria).
Almost 30 years experience in finance (public and private sectors, consulting and in senior management), board and audit committee roles.
Areas of experience and expertise include:
• Strategy development and management
• Financial structuring
• Corporate Governance
• Tax strategy and management
• Financial sustainability and liquidity management
• Reporting and performance management
• Risk management
• Professional education and development
• Workplace Health and Safety management

5. Previous experience in strategy
Bicycle Victoria – I have been directly involved in strategy development and review for the last 9 years.
Betta Foods Group – directly responsible for the strategy development and implementation
Other - As a senior manager in previous organisations I had direct involvement in development and implementation of strategy in organisations across a range of industries and in organisations ranging from 5 people to several thousand. I also provided strategy development advice to other entities.

6. Current employment
• Betta Foods Group of companies - Chief Financial Officer, Director and Company Secretary
• The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia - CA Program Facilitator and exam marker
• Shire of Yarra Ranges - Independent Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee

7. Additional Statement
I have been on the Board at Bicycle Victoria for almost 9 years. During that time I have been President for the last 7 years and on most of the committees at one time or another.
I came onto the Board at the encouragement of a previous Boardmember to contribute through my background in corporate finance and strategy development.
I have been privileged to work with a great team to achieve a new constitution, a revised strategy, and revitalised relationship with the other state based cycling groups. This has seen the organisation grow from strength to strength in its impact in our mission getting more people cycling more often.
I have a riding history which is not very different from the majority of the community in that I grew up with the bike being a core form of transport and recreation. This developed to a road bike at university which alternated with my car as a pure transport option. My riding reduced until the kids came along when we started riding as a recreational activity.
My riding increased significantly through a challenge of a friend to do ATB (which was obviously not too bad as I went back again a couple of times). Out of this I saw the benefit of the multi day rides and then took each of my 3 children on a GVBR when they were each in year 8. Two of them have since gone on to ride or volunteer on other events.
My riding is now a mix of recreation, commuting and occasional challenge riding.
As well as the Board I have been actively involved in events, volunteering on numerous ATB’s, GVBR’s and Escapades. Working on the events as a volunteer is a great experience which means I get to work with a great group of staff and volunteers as well as interact with a lot of cyclists on a regular basis.
My passion is to continue to work on making cycling a normal part of everyday life and ensuring it is a valid and safe transport and recreation choice for everybody.
I value the opportunity to continue to help ensure a strong vibrant organisation which can continue to deliver a better outcome for existing and future cyclists.
Remember … Life is better on a bike!

Helen Millicer

>1. Personal Statement
To realise cycling’s potential, we need smart allocation of BV’s time and resources on campaigns and programs. I bring to the Board expertise in sustainability, strategy and management in government, business and national not-for-profit organisations. Recently I lead an initiative for government funding, and cooperation between BV and Melbourne’s BUGs.

2. Motivation to stand for Bicycle Network Victoria Board,including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
My primary motivation is a vision of people of all ages riding, beyond a doubling and trippling of the number of cyclists, people who feel and are safe as they travel to school, work, shops, entertainment and on holidays. It is for cycling to become a cultural norm and part of everyday life.
My second motivation arises out of a concern to create a more sustainable society given our future of constrained resources, and in particular oil for transport and carbon emissions. Cycling is also a marvellous way to keep fit and healthy and cut fuel bills.
I am passionate and pragmatic about changing our politics, policies and infrastructure in Australia to support the growth in cycling. We are on the cusp of a wonderful two wheel revolution that is hampered by slow investment and support from governments and groups who are blind to the potential and benefits and are captured by legacy systems.
Bicycle Victoria, now known as Bicycle Network Victoria, has a key role to play to articulate and advocate the necessary vision and investment for cycling. We can and have to do more to get the infrastructure and public campaigns to support safe and healthy riding, and driving by motorists. And not just for the current generation of cyclists but for all those to come.
I bring to the Board expertise and understanding of relevant contributors who are essential to realise this future. I have necessary experience for the Bicycle Victoria Board, having managed public programs, capital works and advocacy in both local and state government and industry associations, plus I have a strong record contributing to public organisations via Boards. I have worked in sustainability, with a specialty in water and energy for the last decade, and am currently in a national management role.
With this background I have been able to make a useful contribution to the Board in my first term and would like to do more. I have performed various standard Board roles, plus formed and convened two working groups on Strategy, and Beyond Victoria. In addition I have reactivated the Glen Eira Bicycle User Group, campaigned for increased local Council investment in cycling with reasonable success, spoken at public forums on cycling, strategies and investment and brought together BV and key BUGs in Melbourne for greater cooperation. With your support I will have the opportunity to do more.
Meanwhile, on the bike, I am both a social rider with family and friends, and a daily commuter on a well loved bike riding with the cars, busses and trucks on Orrong and St Kilda Roads.

3. Previous Experience of Boards/Committees

4. Board governance qualifications and experience or any other relevant qualification and experience.
2011 Toastmasters Leadership program (ongoing)
2009 Leadership Victoria Board Induction program
1999 Post-Grad Dip in Business Management
1989 Post-Grad Dip in Museum Management
1986 Bachelor of Arts

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction
In addition to above work roles and external roles, most of my roles have been focussed around strategic management, setting targets, navigating the landscape, determining and negotiating the best path forward. I have often been appointed to establish new roles and sometimes new organisations. This has involved working collaboratively with many stakeholders, harnessing support and articulating a vision, leading people, raising funds, forming and managing legal structures, reporting and expectations, plus managing media and promotions.
Some earlier roles included:
• Chair of the Monash University Cooperative Bookshop (4 yrs)
• Founder, producer and presenter of weekly arts industry radio program (broadcast on public radio around Australia) (4 yrs)
• Founding Director of Doncaster Art Gallery, arts programs in Casey and Wyndham.
More recent actions include:
• Originator and manager of Prepare 2030 Threats and Opportunities program for PACIA
• Manager of Clearwater, when part of Melbourne Water, EPA Victoria and MAV.

6. Current employment
Manager Sustainability Programs, Plastics and Chemicals Industries Assoc
This includes managing:
Carbon Solutions energy efficiency program, National Plastics Recycling Survey, Liquid Futures water efficiency program, etc.

7. Optional Additional statement
I hope to be elected so I can continue to represent BV’s diverse members and contribute to a better world for cyclists.

Anthony Revell

1. Personal statement
As a participant in various forms of cycling, I am committed to improving riding conditions for all cyclists and contributing to the cycling community. A business executive with a passion for cycling, I will bring management experience, ideas and energy to the Board of Bicycle Network Victoria.

2. Motivation to stand for the Bicycle Network Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
My motivation to stand for the Board of Bicycle Network Victoria is to make a positive contribution to Bicycle Network Victoria and to the cycling community generally.
As a regular rider, I share the challenges we all face and want to see conditions continually improve for all cyclists, regardless of their type of riding and whether they live in metropolitan, regional or rural areas. Improving the cycling experience is a critical element in achieving the objective of “more people cycling more often”. Benefits of cycling to individuals, the community and the environment are considerable, and these benefits will increase through improving cycling infrastructure and safer, more enjoyable cycling routes.
I believe my commercial experiences as a business executive will add value to the Board of Bicycle Network Victoria. In particular, I can make a positive contribution in the areas of planning and strategic direction.
I will bring energy, ideas, business skills and commitment to this position, and will measure my contribution through benefits to the cycling community that Bicycle Network Victoria delivers.

3. Previous Experience on Boards / Committees

4. Board governance qualifications and experience or any other relevant qualifications and experience
• Bachelor of Business (Economics & Marketing)
• MBA (Monash University)

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction.
In both CEO and General Manager roles within the business services sector, I have considerable experience in developing business strategy, implementing plans, and ongoing governance and management.
This frequently involves consultation with various stakeholders and a detailed analysis of both the external environment and internal organisational capabilities. It is through these processes that I have assisted businesses in establishing its direction.
The most important part of any plan is the implementation and here I have held senior positions responsible for delivery on these plans with a focus on processes, people systems and organisation structure.

6. Current employment – organisation, job title
Integrated Mailing Services Chief Executive Officer
(Mailing and marketing services provider)

7. Optional additional statement
My vision is to see cycling become more mainstream in our society with a cycling infrastructure that provides safe and enjoyable cycling experiences for everyone.

Cycling takes many forms (recreational, commuting, road, touring, mountain biking, competitive riding etc) and members of Bicycling Network Victoria therefore present a diverse range of interests and issues. As an organisation representing such a wide group, it is important that all cyclists are heard. I will contribute to, and support the Bicycle Network Victoria work as an advocate for all cyclists. This includes those living in metropolitan, regional and rural parts of the state.

My own riding experiences include commuting, weekend road cycling, mainly on Beach Road or on the Great Ocean Road as a member of the Anglesea CCC, mountain bike riding in the Otway region, nine “Round the Bays” and various other community rides.

Mark Yorston

1. Personal Statement
I am mad keen on riding (aka bike tragic). I’ve been a WARBY annually since 2004, rider / volunteer on ATB since 2002 & Cycle Angel on RTWD. When not riding I am a solicitor (specialist in business law - 30 years) and a fellow of AICD / TIA.

2. Motivation to stand for the Bicycle Network Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
I have been participating in Great Victorian Bike Rides since 2000 and did my first ATB in 2002. I have been a WARBY on each Great Victorian Bike Ride since 2004 and for the last several years have acted as a riding volunteer on Around the Bay In a Day and as a Cycle Angel on Ride to Work Day.

Along with, I am sure, all other existing and prospective Board Members I bring a sustained enthusiasm for promoting the benefits of cycling to the wider community.

I bring to the Board my experience gained as a legal practitioner for over 30 years. I am an accredited specialist in commercial litigation and business law. I am presently the Deputy Chair of the Litigation Lawyers Section of the Law Institute. I represent the Law Institute of Victoria on the Supreme Court Rules Committee, I have served and continue to serve on a number of other committees associated with the Law Institute including seven years on the Workplace Relations Specialist Advisory Committee and ten years on the Commercial Litigation Specialist Advisory Committee. I am a member of the Executive Committee of both the Litigation and Workplace Relations Sections of the Law Institute.

I was formerly a fellow of the Australia Institute of Management and am currently a fellow of the Australia Institute of Company Directors and a fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia. I have over the years been a Director of many companies associated with clients.

3. Previous Experience on Boards / Committees

4. Board governance qualifications and experience or any other relevant qualifications and experience.
Bachelor of Economics
Bachelor of Laws
Accredited as a Specialist in Commercial Litigation since 1993
Accredited as a Specialist in Business Law since 1991
Accredited as a Specialist in Workplace Relations from 2003 to 2010
Fellow of the Australia Institute of Company Directors
Fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia
Nationally Accredited Mediator

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction.
I became a Partner in a firm of solicitors practicing in the CBD in 1985 until 2008. I was managing Partner from 2004 - 2008

6. Current employment – organisation, job title
I have been a consultant in a legal practice since 2008 to date. My current practice involved commercial transactions and commercial disputes.
I have extensive experience in matters related to transport and logistics and for the last several years have been heavily involved in acting for a company which is developing an interoperable platform to facilitate machine to machine communication.

7. Optional additional statement
If you haven’t already decided that I am worth one of your three votes there is probably little I can usefully add to try and convince you. Happy cycling.

David Smith

1. Personal statement
Safety is my priority. This requires:
• integrating cycling into State transport policy;
• education for cyclists/motorists;
• co-ordination between local councils on bike lanes/paths.
My qualifications:
• ride 270km/week;
• have “not for profit” board experience;
• advise “not for profits” on strategy/governance as a law firm partner.

2. Motivation to stand for the Board, including what you will bring to the Board
I believe that increasing safety for cyclists is the key to getting “More People Cycling More Often”.
There are many strands to tackling safety issues. They include education for drivers, cyclists and the general public, improving cycling infrastructure and lobbying legislators to treat cycling issues with greater priority and consistency.

I know that Bicycle Network Victoria is already doing some good work to advance safety issues. However I want to make sure it is doing its utmost.

As a board member I will advocate that Bicycle Network Victoria:
• encourages further integration of cycling into State government transport policy;
• pursues safety education programs for cyclists, motorists and the general public; and
• seeks greater co-ordination between local councils on cycling issues, particularly bike lanes, bike paths and other infrastructure critical to safe and enjoyable cycling.
I believe that wherever possible, Bicycle Network Victoria’s position on particular issues should be based on empirical evidence, e.g. independent academic studies and statistical analyses.
I am well qualified for the role because:
• I commute by mountain bike to work, ride in a bunch on weekends and occasionally race;
• I have previously served on a “not for profit” board;
• as a partner in a national law firm I have very strong commercial and governance skills and advise “not for profit” organisations;
• I have strong networks among cyclists and the business community.

3. Previous board experience
I was a director of the Bone Marrow Donor Institute from 2002 to 2004.

Like Bicycle Network Victoria, the Institute is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. (It has now changed its name to the Fight Cancer Foundation.)

4. Board governance qualifications and experience
I have been a partner in national law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth for nearly 13 years. I advise numerous large not-for-profit companies on corporate governance issues. I have a very clear understanding of the roles of the board and the executive team in the management of this type of company. I have a detailed understanding of directors’ and company officers’ legal obligations. I have previous experience on a not-for-profit board.

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction
In my professional practice I have provided strategic advice to a large number of companies, including not-for-profit companies, over many years. I regularly discuss issues of strategy with directors, CEOs and other members of senior management.
As noted above, I have also been a director of a not-for-profit company, the Bone Marrow Donor Institute.
In my student days I was a director of the Melbourne University Student Union Summer School – a not-for-profit program to prepare disadvantaged students for VCE at no charge to the students.

6. Current employment
Partner, Corrs Chambers Westgarth.
Corrs Chambers Westgarth is a national commercial law firm.

Neil Baird-Watson

1. Personal Statement
Imagine a future where;
Car drivers don’t text, talk or twitter, Communities interconnected by myriads of bike routes, Seniors cycle to their local shops, Arterial bike lanes are 3m wide and protected, Mothers happily ride with their kids to school. Health, Transport and Environmental harmony. This should be the norm!

2. Motivation to Stand for the Bicycle Network Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the board if you are elected.
As a rider who can (just) recall the freedom gained from unbolting their training wheels at age 6, I’ve been the thankful recipient of the great work performed by the extended BNV family over many years (GVBR’s, ATB’s, bike lanes and trails).

I seek your vote to assist cycling continue to transition into the mainstream. Cyclists and their perspective need to become mandatory stakeholders in; urban planning, transport strategies, health and wellbeing issues, environmental solutions, road laws and community activities. Advancing the BNV vision and getting things done are hallmarks I aim to bring to the board, if elected.

I can offer members a voice on the board from someone with a sound commercial background, anchored in prudent financial management and entrepreneurial drive honed over 25 years of corporate and board experience. Always keen to learn new skills, I actively seek out information about how (international) organisations are integrating cycling within their communities; Cycling Embassy of Demark, CA Cycling coalition, Biking Rules and Bicycle Oregon to name a few.

I gained an appreciation of the many cycling activities during my involvement in the distribution of a range of bicycle equipment brands in the late 1990’s serving the; recreational, commuting, mountain and road bike markets and seek to use this insight to benefit all cyclists.

3. Previous experience on Boards / Committees

4. Board governance qualifications and experience or any other relevant qualifications and experience.
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Graduate School of Management, Macquarie University, 1991.
Graduate Diploma of Business (Marketing), Chisholm Institute of Technology / Monash University, 1990.
Managing Director, Sports Plus Distribution 1997 – 1998 (Bicycle Industry)

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction.
I have worked as a management consultant assisting high growth organisations set strategic direction. I have led focus groups to explore and define various positioning and strategy options and delivered strategy recommendations and reports to Board management. As a member of various school boards I have been involved in the setting and implementation of strategy over many years.
During the 1990’s I guided several high growth companies to capitalise on market opportunities in the communications, convergent technologies and networking sectors, having set the appropriate strategic direction and managed the outcomes.

6. Current Employment – Organisation, Job title.
Kyocera Mita Australia Pty Ltd
Victoria / Tasmania State Manager

7. Optional additional Statement
The message is clear that riding a bicycle, whether it be for recreation or transport can and does make a huge difference to so many people in so many ways. I seek to represent Bicycle Network Victoria members on the board to further these Health (personal and environment) aims and assist in overcoming the challenges of presented by an ever expanding bicycle network.

The pendulum is swinging in terms of equality for users of public (especially road) infrastructure. A counter-point is required to off-set the historical dominance of motor vehicle centricity in public policy decision making and infrastructure spending and I aim to contribute.

The reality is dawning that Australians are not as fit and healthy as they think, with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease on the increase, cycling activities can continue to deliver huge health benefits. BNV is uniquely placed to champion this problem by being a strong advocate for change and I hope to be of service.

I personally have a passion for cycling, some say (my wife) an obsession. I have participated in numerous events over the years including; Around The Bay 200 & 250, High Country Challenge, last 8 Great Victorian Bike Rides (with children), Audax Alpine Classic 200, St Kilda Cycling Club training rides and Caulfield Carnegie Cycling Club Criteriums, Cycling Inform Boot camps and Ami Gillet Foundation - Amy’s Ride. I own a mountain bike, a fixie and 2 road bikes. As a five day a week cyclist I come face to face with riding realities first hand and seek to represent the BNV members backed by my previous experience to aid in the development of; new ideas, strategic thinking, financial responsibility and thought leadership
Imagine a future where:
local communities are interconnected by a myriad of safe designated bike paths, tracks and lanes; where seniors can park their bikes outside the local shops as they meet for morning coffee; where car drivers refuse to text, talk or twitter on their devices as they travel from A to B; where arterial bike lanes are 3m wide, protected and integrated; where mothers ride with their kids to their local schools on designated schoolkid friendly road infrastructure; where bike commuters can claim a 100% tax deduction on equipment and attract carbon tax credits en route; where urban planners integrate cycleways, recycled storm water and Green pockets into town planning imperatives; where road laws are revised to positively protect cyclists and where all road users are tolerant and share the road.
This should be the norm. I seek to provide strategic input to ensure that BNV achieves positive Health, Transport and Environmental outcomes.

Jeremy Brand

1. Personal Statement
As a board member of BV I serve on 3 subcommittees, focusing on corporate governance and membership. I bring relevant business experience to the board including as a lawyer and managing a bike shop. I enjoy contributing to the board and its committees and I am committed to BVs success.

2. Motivation to stand for the Bicycle Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
Over the past 2 years serving on the board and on 3 subcommittees, I have gained tremendous insight and understanding of the operations, workings and goals of BV.

BV has more than 45 employees, over 40,000 members and hundreds of volunteers. It organises 3 major events each year, in addition to constant advocacy and community awareness programs.

My motivation is to use the knowledge and experience I have gained over the past 2 years for the benefit of the members and BV.

3. Previous Experience on Boards / Committees

4. Board Governance and any relevant qualifications
Bicycle Victoria Constitutional Committee (2010/2011)
LLB, BA, post grad Corporations Law
Accredited Specialist (LIV) Commercial Litigation

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction.
Board member of BV - extensive involvement in setting and guiding strategic direction together with the board and management.

Brand Partners Commercial Lawyers – successfully operation and positioning of legal business for over 15 years. As a commercial lawyer, I am regularly called on to provide our clients with practical business and legal advice to assist them achieve their strategic goals.

Operational director St Kilda Cycles - working with management to implement strategies for growth, both retail and wholesale.

6. Current employment – organisation, job title
Brand Partners commercial lawyers – Director.
St Kilda Cycles – Operational Director.

7. Optional additional statement
I am a recreational and commuting rider having ridden in the GVBR for the past 10 years and also in a number of other rides organised by BV.

BV represents its members diligently and in so doing benefits the greater community. As a not for profit, BV relies on its hardworking staff together with its dedicated and wonderful volunteers to achieve its goals and deliver in areas spanning rides, membership benefits, advocacy for riders, ride facilities and for the community in general.

It has been a privilege to work for BV and its members through my role with the Board over the past 2 years.
BV is a complex organisation with more than 45 employees and tens of thousands of members and friends. Over the past 2 years I have learnt so much about BV that I will be put to good use if I am re-elected.

Alex Bond

1. Personal statement
I am a trained lawyer currently working in Government relations. Nominating for election I commit to focussing on:
• Behavioural change in the interactions between motorists and cyclists
• Positioning BNV as a unifying force across cycling interest groups
• Returning value for money to BNV members

2. Motivation to stand for the Bicycle Victoria Board, including what you will bring to the Board if you are elected.
As a self confessed cycling tragic (commuting, touring, sportif rides etc) I view making a contribution to BNV by nominating for the board elections as a way to link my personal interest with my professional skills.
With extensive experience operating in environments with little positional authority but the ability to implement change and advancing towards organisational goals, I view board membership as a great opportunity to contribute to making Melbourne an even better place to live by becoming one of the worlds great cycling cities.

3. Previous Experience on Boards / Committees
n/a

4. Board governance qualifications and experience or any other relevant qualifications and experience.
I am a trained lawyer with change management qualifications and current experience working in government relations for one of the world’s largest professional services organisations.

5. Previous experience in setting and guiding an organisation’s strategic direction.
My experience includes setting business and division level business and revenue plans. Activities have included visioning, market analysis, resourcing assessments and implementation planning.
With strategy setting comes the responsibility of mapping out a pathway to achieving those strategic goals. Past experience has included managing change across an organisation from one sales culture to another allowing the organisation to team better and take advantage of efficiencies.
My current role includes developing and directing the businesses strategy for engaging with the Victorian State Government.

6. Current employment – organisation, job title
Ernst & Young
Account Director – Government & Public Sector

Results

The results of the 2011 election were announced at the recent AGM.
Three positions were vacant. Simon Crone and Helen Millicer were re-elected and David Smith, a new Board member will sit on the Board for a 3 year term.