By Benjamin Brits
Held at the Oaktree Function Venue in Bedfordview, the Johannesburg centre of the South African Institute for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (SAIRAC) conducted their 58th annual general meeting.
The meeting was opened by centre chairman Gregory Grobbelaar who, after a moment of silence in respect for those members and other people who had passed away of the period and apologies, delivered his report of happenings over the year – noting the centre’s various technical talks and courses presented, their annual golf day, and successful delivery of the industry’s premier exhibition FRIGAIR 2022.
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Grant Laidlaw, centre and national treasurer of the institute reported on the financial standing of the centre, collections, new member fees and royalties obtained from FRIGAIR 2022 that would be put towards the delivery of Dreosti Memorial lectures with the inclusion of international expertise to be held in 2023. Laidlaw specifically noted the strong position of the centre that is leading the country in terms of membership participation and the position to contribute a significant amount to the national fund. He also stated in closing that the function of the institute continues to be the dissemination of information to the industry.
Grobbelaar continued by offering much gratitude for the outgoing centre committee for their dedication and the efforts over the past year, with particular thanks to centre secretary Mariet Pieterse. Before announcing the new incoming committee, he offered the invitation and opportunity to meeting participants to also become involved in the centre committee. Should any other members be interested in participating – they can contact the centre.
The incoming committee for the Johannesburg centre was then named as follows:
Chairman – Gregory Grobbelaar
Vice-chairman – TBA
Past-chairman – Robert Fox
Treasurer – Grant Laidlaw
Secretary – Mariet Pieterse
Corp Members – Jaco Pieterse, Bob Vuletic, Moses Mngomezulu and Rampuru Mpuru
Non-Corp Members – James Laidlaw
Awards/recognition
Two people were recognised at the AGM. These were:
- Mpho Motwsi – who is a new member presented with a SAIRAC file and institute tie.
- Robert Fox – who was presented with a certificate for the best technical presenter in 2022.
The AGM was closed with Grobbelaar wishing a good evening and safe travels. Attending members and guests then enjoyed a lovely three course meal, refreshments, ample and valued networking opportunities with peers.
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