The process of developing the SSR happened in three phases.

Phase 1
The first phase of developing the SSR was to review, incorporate and consolidate the various inputs and developments since the George Workshop in 2005. A Strategic workshop, led by Prof Ernie Heath from the University of Pretoria, was held at the African Outdoor Group near the Hartebeespoort dam on 3 and 4 May 2007. The workshop was attended by NOW representatives as well as various representatives both at national and province level of DEAT. The outcome of the workshop was a report titled “Towards a Strategic Framework and Self-management Plan for the Recreational Off-road Sector in South Africa”.

Phase 2
The second phase of developing the SSR was to develop a Terms of Reference (TOR) which was used to brief, evaluate, appoint and to manage a service provider to enable the finalisasion of the SSR. The TOR was completed in June 2007.

Phase 3
The third phase was led by the appointment of Grant Thornton Consulting Services in August 2007 to enable the development and finalisation of the “Self-Regulation Strategy and Implementation Framework for the Off-Road Sector in South Africa.” The SSR project was split into four phases, being:
1. Project Inception and Planning phase where project scope, report formats, report mechanisms and a work plan on deliverables and time frames was agreed.
2. Research and Benchmarking phase that was a complete scan of the applicable environmental, legal, authorisation and process requirements that apply to the off-road sector so that potential legal requirements and risks may be highlighted.
3. Stakeholder Consultation phase where possible stakeholders was workshopped throughout South Africa to give input into the process.
4. Strategy Formulation, time frames, deliverables and implementation framework phase that is linked to the 4 focus areas as was identified during the 2005 Workshop at George, being Sensitive areas, Driver competency, Off-road guiding and tourism development and Trails and tracks.
The SSR was completed April 2008

COMMUNICATION WITH THE MINISTER OF DEAT

One of the highest identified priorities in the development of the SSR was to reinstate and maintain communication channels between NOW and Minister of DEAT. Communication happened during the months of March 2007, July 2007, September 2007, January 2008, April 2008 and May 2008. The communication to the Minister in April 2008 confirmed the completion of the SSR. During the last communication in May 2008 the Minister has confirmed that he would avail himself to a handing over event. Possible dates will be identified during this meeting and forwarded to his office soon after.

FINANCES

A once off grant to the value of R500 000.00 (Five hundred thousand) was handed to NOW in March 2007 for the appointment of a Service Provider. The monies were paid into a trust account of Johann Marais & Associate attorneys, who managed payments to service providers. An inability to calculate interest accrued on the DEAT grant monies has subsequently led to the unavailability of Audit financials at this AGM. It is my wish that the matter will be resolved soonest in order to finalise Audited Financials. The De Wet van Schalkwyk tax invoice is the only outstanding invoice still to be paid.

AUDITOR

The shareholders of NOW have unanimously agreed to appoint De Wet van Schalkwyk Registered Chartered Accountants in Ferndale as the NOW Auditors during April 2008. All statutory, secretarial and address changes, an Income Tax exemption application, Taxation administration as well as a company register have been implemented.

EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE

I would like to express gratitude to the following companies and individuals:
· Ernie Heath for the vibrand and enthusiastic way in which he led the Strategic Workshop.
· Gillian Saunders and her team at Grant Thrornton for their patience, understanding of our challenges and their ability share our our vision.
· Amanda Britz, Wynand Fourie, Dr Johann Kotzê and their DEAT team for their insight and contributions to the process
· Nissan SA for the numerous times that they have made their conference facilities available both in Midrand and in Cape Town to conduct NOW business.
· To each of the NOW representatives for your patience, unselfish input, commitment and visionary leadership in the way which each of you have represented your Industry, to the benefit of all.

I have taken the liberty to pull out the name of Francois Smit of Saroof. Francois, your clear understanding of the right things to do at the right time, the bigger picture of what needs to be achieved and your unselfish committed dedication in completing the business Plan, Terms of Reference and your input into the SSR did not go unnoticed.

POSITION OF CONVENER

I have taken on the responsibility of Acting Convener from March 2007 with the best intention to lead the process of developing, as well as final handover, of the SSR as was requested by the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT), Mr Marthinus van Schalkwyk, Member of Parliament. I have made it clear from the outset that I am prepared to fill the position of Convener until the handover Ceremony of the SSR to the Minister. This then serve as a notice to the Shareholders of NOW my intention to resign from the position of Convener, effective SSR handover to the Minister.

GOING INTO THE FUTURE

The finalisation of the SSR as merely the first step in a long walk in living the dream of NOW is clearly understood by all. I wish each of you the best of luck, clear vision and continued dedication in serving the industry we all love and care for so much.