Marine Industry Foundation launched

The Marine Industry Foundation (MIF) was Wednesday, November 25, at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia. The Foundation has been established to broaden community access to the benefits of recreational boating and to assist employment within the marine industry. The launch took place at the Marina Industries Association (MIA) annual Board, marine media and sponsors’ luncheon.
      
The Foundation was first discussed in 2014 by prominent marina industry businessman and former MIA Chairman and Director Jeff d’Albora (pictured). Unanimous support from the Boards of MIA and the Boating Industry Alliance Australia (BIAA) led to the formation of a Trust Deed and the establishment of the Marine Industry Foundation Pty Ltd (MIF).       
          
The Deed sets out the charitable purpose of the Foundation; its objectives; director qualifications; details of the Trust fund and Trustee; powers of the Trustees and procedures related to obligations and governance requirements. MIF is registered by the Australian Charities and Not for Profit Commission and is a joint venture initiative between the MIA and the BIAA. Its activities are directed by a Board comprising of Jeff d'Albora, MIF Chairman; the MIA President and the BIAA Chairman.  The Public Officer is the MIA Executive Officer.

An initial $50,000 in funding for establishment of the Foundation has been provided by Jeff d’Albora with a further $200,000 available to be matched by other donors on a dollar for dollar basis.      

BIAA Chairman Darren Vaux said the Foundation will be seeking support from both the marine industry and the boating community. “Industry and boaters appreciate the economic, social and recreational benefits of boating. Donations to the Foundation will flow into programs and scholarships enabling more people to benefit from boating.”               

Committees are being established under the Board to carry out designated tasks. A Fund Raising Committee is charged with implementing strategies to attract donations and funding. A Fund Allocation Committee will be responsible for implementing strategies to assess applications and provide funding for individuals, groups or existing Not for Profits in line with the vision and mission of the Foundation.      

The Foundation’s mission will focus on the following two activities: a) provide support to disadvantaged groups and groups disconnected from recreational boating with access to boating experiences and skills; b) provide opportunities for employment, education and training within the marine industry.  

More information will be provided on the Foundation in early 2016 with the launch of the Foundation’s web site. Specific industry and community support initiatives will be announced and fund raising events and opportunities will commence.