Whilst being interviewed recently by TV when the RSPB decided to tell us all that the Broads is still in decline, I found myself in the unusual situation of defending the Broads Authority. I make no comment about the RSPB arguments but it brings into focus the forces behind the scenes pressuring the Broads Authority to ignore its navigation responsibilities. We are committed supporters of the nature conservation aspects of the Broads but we also believe strongly that balance must be maintained between the Authority's three purposes: conservation, recreation and navigation.

To fight our corner as a political force on behalf of users of the navigation, NSBA needs as many members as possible. It is easy to say that your sailing club is already a member and for you to think that that is enough. It is not. Please continue your personal membership and persuade the people in the next berths to you to join as well. The more numerous we are and the more united we are the more we will be able to achieve.

The Association's financial position remains sound. This is largely due to the income generated by the advertisements placed in The Green Book. I am grateful to our advertisers for their support and urge you to support them with your custom.

The big issue this year is the Broads Authority Private Bill. This is taking a very long time to become law! Frustratingly so when practically everything in the Bill has been agreed; but it has yet to reach the House of Lords. The Commons Committee questioned the legality of the side agreement with the RYA/IWA/BMF and only now as I write in January have the necessary amendments been proposed that will allow the Bill to progress further through Parliament. The legal costs continue to rise and I note that it is likely that a further £50k will be charged to the navigation account as a result. This can only be bad news for your annual tolls.

The Broadland Youth Regatta was staged in 2007 by Norfolk Broads Yacht Club and Rollesby Broad Sailing Club welcomed the competitors in the Ramuz Trophy. I am grateful to both clubs for their support and for the hard work required to hold such successful events.

NSBA’s main concern is to protect the interests of private boaters and I can tell you that this is no sinecure! Your committee is hardworking and very closely involved in every aspect of Broadland. Each member has a role to play; some are old hands and some are just playing themselves in. I thank them all on your behalf for their dedication. Last but not least I thank all of you, clubs and individual members, for your continued support.

Mike Evans January 2008

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