HRASA Statement
COMMENTARY
Following from the BoD meeting of 4 April 2009, at which the Directors
resolved to move HRASA forward as a matter of necessity, we would like to
begin providing our members, Transnet and the general public enthusiasts
with regular updates as to the progress being made.
This is both in the interests of transparency, and also as a necessary
service to our stakeholders, since the BoD is charged with running the
HRASA's business, and as such is accountable to its members.
Since the 4 April 2009 meeting there has been considerable activity, as
summarised in the report-back below.
Please support HRASA in their activities - both support and a positive
outlook is critical at this stage, and we obviously would welcome your
support and positive feedback in this difficult transitional period.
Be assured that the current office-bearers are trying their best to get the
movement back on track, in order for South African heritage rail tourism to
reclaim its rightful place on the world stage!
CHRIS JANISCH
Acting Chairman, HRASA
TRANSNET FOUNDATION
HRASA's main thrust and concern has been to resuscitate and build the
relationship with Transnet Foundation. It is recognised that this
relationship is vital to our efforts to secure the aims of HRASA.
To this end communication with TF has been established, and this led to a
meeting held in their Johannesburg offices at the end of May. The meeting
was held in a very good spirit, and TF have reaffirmed their commitment to
HRASA with respect to Millsite, and are positive that the MoU between the
parties can be renewed. In turn HRASA agreed to adopt a proactive approach
to the various issues, as well define future liaison strategies. TF were
also able to provide positive news on the future of steam and heritage rail
in South Africa, and have offered their support for our ventures.
As developments occur and issues are agreed and finalised, more information
will be forthcoming.
SIA
SIA has been approached with regard to the need to work hand-in-hand with
HRASA. We hope that this can be achieved within a reasonably short time
period in the interests of the industry.
One of the reasons for the joint approach is the general feeling that HRASA
and SIA need to find common ground, and work together to expedite the
Millsite project. If this can be dealt with successfully, our movement will
gain deserved respect from Transnet, and further positive interactions will
flow from this.
HRASA RESTRUCTURING
We have recognised the need to restructure HRASA as soon as possible. This
will have to be thrashed out at the AGM, but the regional route seems the
logical way.
The Western Cape has welcomed this possible approach and already members
have, with the assistance of the HRASA executive, come together and formed a
liaison subcommittee with the WC Department of Tourism.
The Western Cape has tremendous potential for rail tourism, and HRASA has
already made a positive contribution in this regard.
RELATIONSHIPS WITH INDUSTRY BODIES
There has been further relation-building with authorities, in particular
PRASA - the Passenger Rail Agency of SA, under which operators will in
future fall. Already access agreements have been signed by the majority of
operating clubs, which will come into effect in the second half of this
year.
Relations with Transnet Freight Rail remain stable, and the current
operators continue to run successful programmes.
HRASA 2009 AGM
The AGM is proposed for late June. However, it cannot be called until the
company's finances are in order and to this end, as well as in the interests
of making a clean and fresh start; an audit is currently being conducted.
At the AGM we will have to make some hard and realistic decisions on our
future. It is a future which we believe can be exciting and refreshing, but
which will require hard work and sacrifice to create. It is our hope that as
many members as possible come forward to offer their assistance wherever it
is needed.
Issued by:
Chris Janisch (Acting Chairman, HRASA) and the HRASA Board of Directors
27 May 2009
