2013 Annual Report
Principal Partner Table Of Contents
Message from the ASC 5
From The President 6
From The CEO 10
Sporting Highlights 14
Sporting Development 18
Australian Ski & Snowboard Awards 22
Suzuki National Snowsport Championships 24
SSATV 26
Program Partners 28
Financial Report 30
2 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 3 Message from the ASC
Message from the Australian Sports Commission
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) is committed to ensuring Australian athletes excel in the
international sporting arena, and increasing Australians’ participation in sport. inspires Australians to These two clear objectives are mutually reinforcing – international success participate in sport and greater participation helps nurture our future champions. Sport inspires individuals, unites communities and encourages active lifestyles. for Australian athletes. Traditional Success at the international level has become even more challenging competitors keep getting better, and rising countries are becoming forces to be reckoned with. Our tenth placing in the medal table at the London Olympic Games continued a downward trend over the past three games.
Through Australia’s Winning Edge 2012-2022, our game plan to move Australian sport from world class to world best, we are changing the role of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and the delivery of the rformance and position of national sporting high performance program, improving the financial pe organisations (NSOs) and strengthening the governance structures and standards of NSOs.
We have initiated a fundamental reform process to improve Australian sport, by linking high performance sports funding more closely with performance; ensuring the AIS is the world’s best high performance sports institute; modernising governance structures in a number of sports; investing to n sport; and improve coaching, leadership skills, talent identification and innovation in Australia reinforcing public confidence in the integrity of sport. These reforms will create lasting change and improvement.
In 2013-14, the Australian Government, through the ASC, is investing almost $120 million in national sporting organisations for high performance programs and to promote grassroots participation in sport. Our partner sports can expect a much sharper focus by the ASC in future on best practice governance and pport structures and administration, intellectual property ownership, athlete management and su general accountabilities by the sports. Equally, the ASC is committed to changing to meet the needs of contemporary sport. Importantly, the ASC is focused on promoting grassroots participation in sport throughout Australia and -school Communities to continue a suite of successful national programs such as the Active After program. Increased community sport participation has a profound long term dividend, and remains a vital objective of the ASC.
The ASC looks forward to working in collaboration with the sport sector to encourage more people into
sport and to drive Australia’s continued international sporting success.
John Wylie AM Chair Board of the Australian Sports Commission
44 SkiSki && SnowboardSnowboard AustraliaAustralia 20132013 AnnualAnnual ReportReport 55 From The President
disciplines, within snowboard and freestyle skiing, In summary, Australia’s “top-end” performances are gaining greater audience popularity, particularly have grown exponentially from four to 24 during the as a result of the success of our athletes. past, three Olympic cycles.
Australians “get” Winter Sport and are entitled Winter Sport funding should be increased to expect that their athletes be appropriately Australia’s Winter Sport results dramatically exceed supported on the world stage. the performances of some other high profile Summer Sports that have enjoyed substantially So where does that leave us, post Sochi? higher funding and are, arguably, of no greater cultural relevance. In Sochi, Australia over-achieved with its results but underperformed growing public The following table sets out ASC annual average Brockhoff, Anton Grimus, Britteny Cox, Jarryd Welcome everyone to the 20th AGM of Ski and expectations! funding for the for Winter Sport in recent years as Hughes and Scotty James. Snowboard Australia covering the 2012 / 2013 Commentators have grappled with the summary compared with the funding published by the ASC period. of our performance in Sochi. The fact that some for some other high profile sports. The total medal And, along with names such as Cam Bolton, quarters of the public expected more of our tally for the past three OG’s is one measure of Greta Small and Matt Graham, it was this younger We begin by noting that a Copy of the Minutes Olympic Team only strengthens the case for return on investment. generation that certainly went on to turn heads in from our previous AGM held at the Ice House has resourcing Winter Sport. Genuine frustration at Sochi. been on the Website since last year. “lost opportunities” is welcomed and demonstrates Annual Past 3 Cost per a strong community connection rather than So let us reflect for a moment on Sochi and the Funding Olympics medal! I turn now to the Reporting Period; though an apologetic and cynical acceptance of mere context of Australia’s performance. $m Total $000 draw your attention to CEO, Michael Kennedy’s participation which may have been the case in Medals excellent report and the Annual Report as a Games long past. Australians are active skiers and snowboarders whole, which provides comprehensive detail Swimming 8.2 45 182 Many will be surprised to learn that skiing and on SSA activities and athlete achievements and Australia’s record-breaking success at the Sochi Diving 2.1 9 233 snowboarding are among the most popular results. is the best-kept secret in the country. recreational activities undertaken by Australian Winter 2.1* 8 262 It is more than fitting to acknowledge the heroic families. Sport At the outset, and on behalf of all Members, performances of Australia’s three medal winners, Cycling 7.4 18 411 I have pleasure in acknowledging the Lydia Lassila, Torah Bright and David Morris. And Each year, around one million people visit an Alpine performances of all our athletes, their coaches also, I make special mention of Anna Segal with her Canoeing 4.2 9 467 Resort, and most buy a lift ticket. and support staff, and of course their families, gutsy fourth place in the debut of Ski Slopestyle. The industry’s economic contribution, most of Rowing 7.2 13 553 without whom, these achievements would not be Each performance carries rich anecdotes of which is regional, approaches $2 billion pa, with Sailing 6.3 11 573 possible. sacrifice, endeavor and vision. employment numbers around 25,000 people. Athletics 6.6 10 660 Turning to the Sporting Highlights of the Period. But the Sochi story goes much deeper. The Water 3.1 3 1,033 Australians are interested in Winter Sport The season-and-a-half, preceding the Olympic following table compares SSA athlete performances Polo Australians are very interested in Winter Sport. And Winter Games, carries the additional burden at the past four OWG’s. it is on the increase. But that increase comes with Basketball 5.0 3 1,666 of qualification. And the record shows that a price of increased expectations of performances, Australian athletes reveled in it, securing four Hockey 6.1 3 2,033 including Olympic medals. Growing media 2002 2006 2010 2014 World Championship and 29 World Cup medals. Volleyball 2.5 0 ∞ coverage of the Olympic Winter Games and a Salt Torino Vancouver Sochi * Average of past three years. broader and deeper level of Australian athlete • Lydia Lassila won five medals. Lake success has driven this. • Alex “Chumpy” Pullin also won five, Medals 1 2 3 3 Simple analysis reveals that the investment in During Sochi, daily television viewers approached including a World Championship Gold Winter Sport has been high yielding. 1 million during each of the 16 days of broadcast Top 8 1 3 4 8 medal. by the Ten Network. “Second screen” and social • But interestingly, almost a third of the Top 16 2 2 5 13 Alpine and Cross Country remain critical pillars media figures where at all time highs. medals where spread between the Total 4 7 12 24 to the future of Australian Winter Sport next generation of heroes such as Belle And while almost all of Australia’s medal success Winter Sport is no longer “exotic”. The newer has been in Freestyle and Snowboard, strategic
6 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 7 investment must continue in Alpine and Cross $1 million over the next five years. This will rights of parents to champion the cause of their Country. While high performance success will provide a valuable income stream to service the own children but equally imperative that sport always be a challenge, these two disciplines development-level of our sport. The Board has rejects the attempts of parents to compromise are the exclusive entry point for Winter Sport already provided $150,000 from recent years’ the aspirations of others, as may have happened athletes and are supported by an extensive Club surpluses. Further, it is intended that the lion’s in Sochi, wittingly or unwittingly. and volunteer network that is crucial to Winter share of the Victorian Interschools’ annual license Sport in general. fee will also go into the Foundation. Once a The Federal Government, through the Australian critical mass of funds is reached, the Board will Sports Commission remains SSA’s major Medals and High Performance success be developing a clear and transparent vehicle for funding partner. The ASC looks to a mix of high evidences Sport Governance and Pathway philanthropic contributions to our sport. performance results, prospects and participation integrity when determining the sport’s funding allocation. Early last year, the Australian Sports Commission, Participation & Sport Development Credit must go to Australian Winter Sport announced Winning Edge, a strategy designed Sustained High Performance demands a steady athletes whose continued international success, to take the nation’s sport from “world class to supply of young, hungry and well-prepared resources SSA to provide organizational support world best”. athletes with the talent, dedication and to all its disciplines. commitment to go the next step. Included in the aims of Winning Edge is that In concluding, I would like to thank Members Australia achieve a ranking as a Top 15 Winter The SnowRacer product continues as a highly of the SSA Board, all of whom give up their Olympic Nation. In Sochi, this would have successful vehicle to broaden and connect with time and talent freely and make invaluable required eight medals with at least two being the base of our sports pyramid. SSA is able to and constructive contributions to the sport’s Gold. share the story of our sport with thousands of, direction. As I have pleasure in saying each previously anonymous, young racers. year, meetings are strategic, vibrant and athlete A “Medal Target” strategy is sound sport focused. Directors are balanced, have a whole- philosophy, as it necessarily requires sport In addition to a genuine insurance product of-sport interest and are committed to providing governance and pathway integrity. These are the benefit, SnowRacer also provides real evidence leadership and accepting the associated real rewards of funding successful sports with of the size and depth of our community. This is accountability for decisions taken. These are strong community connections. So how is SSA valuable in the eyes of the Government and our essential qualities that all involved in our sport stacking up? funding partners. might expect.
Governance & Sustainability Pathway Management remains the core In this regard, I acknowledge the continued The ASC has established a rigorous, Governance responsibility of your National Body. SSA’s support, both financial and technical, from evaluation system, itemising 33 criteria. SSA has Futures Programmes and Pathway Programme ASC, the various State Institutes and the AOC. already implemented around 80% of the criteria Recognition continue to ignite and motivate Members should be aware that the AOC and is in the process of adopting the remainder. young athletes and also benefit from the direct contributes $1 million per year, exclusively, to This places SSA amongst the Nation’s best involvement of SSA’s Four Sport Pillars, the Winter Sport via the OWI, leveraging the much performing sporting organisations, which is a National Discipline Committees. valued ASC funding. credit to the Board and to Senior Management. 2013 also saw the continuation of the critically Finally, I would like to thank SSA’s Management Members will be familiar with the Board’s important various State and National Interschools team who, under the able leadership of objective to increase untied revenue and thereby Snowsports competitions. Through its ownership CEO, Michael Kennedy, continue to grow reduce our reliance on Government funding. of the Victorian Chapter, SSA has taken a far the organisation’s capacity to support young more hands on role in developing this grass roots athletes, their coaches and families. Suzuki Australia’s continuation as the major activity and working closing with NSW and ACT sponsor of our National Championships across to enhance the relevance and accessibility of our Kenno, brings a unique level of experience, all disciplines is an important part of this sport to school age children. energy and calmness to the leadership of our strategy. The sponsorship will include broadcast sport, approaching issues holistically and with an production, delivering highlights to news and Parents in Sport athlete focus. Thank you, Michael, and thank you sport shows nationwide. This partnership Before leaving the shadow of Sochi, it would be to your Team, for another successful year and the showcases our athletes and raises the profile of wrong to avoid the topic of “parents in sport”. invaluable contribution you all make. our sport. Thank you Suzuki Australia. Parents are a passionate and self-sacrificing assets that all sports struggle to capitalize upon. On behalf of SSA, I wish all a safe and successful Another important, and symbolic, step has This may be even more the case in financially 2014/15 season. been the Board’s decision to provide for the and geographically challenging environment establishment of the SSA Foundation. Our of Winter Sport. There is no simple solution. Dean Gosper ambitious goal is to build toward a corpus of However, it is imperative that sport respects the President
8 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 99 From The CEO
As we go to print on the 2012-2013 Annual will only be achievable through operation of Victorian Interschools Snowsport Championships The details regarding these initiatives are Report the Sochi Olympic Winter Games have world class programs and targeted support to and also the delivery of the National Interschools outlined later in the annual report. just concluded. Whilst the achievements of our future medal calibre athletes. 2014 will prove to events in Victoria. SSA worked closely with the athletes will be covered in great detail as part of be an important time for snow sports and winter NSW/ACT Interschools event management team As we know, skiing and snowboarding are the 2014 Annual Report it is worth noting some sports as a whole as we set course for Korea and and shared resources both human and financial among Australia’s largest and most popular significant highlights both in breadth and depth beyond under the new Winning Edge model. in a more streamlined and efficient approach participation sports. As a recreational sporting of our athletes performances in Sochi. to event delivery. The immediate impact was a activity, the appeal to both genders and virtually The past 12 months have been another strong reduction in entry fees for schools. The increase all age groups is almost unmatched. The ratings Whilst we will forever celebrate the medal chapter in the ongoing evolution of Ski & in participation numbers (despite challenging delivered by Network Tens coverage of the performances of Torah Bright, David Morris and Snowboard Australia. Whilst Sochi always loomed snow conditions) is testament to the updated Sochi games proves that there is huge public Lydia Lassila the Sochi games delivered top 8 and large as a major focal point it was most pleasing management model. The Victorian event is now appetite for winter sports. The Sochi TV audience top 16 performances beyond our expectations. In to have significant operational focus on the overseen by a committee which brings together averaged over 780,000 across the full 16 days of all, 8 SSA athletes achieved results between 4th grassroots and entry level of our sport. the schools, the resort and the sport ensuring competition and peaked at over 1 million viewers – 8th with a further 13 finishing between 9th -16th fluid communication and a forum to effectively on at least 9 occasions. places. This provided 24 top 16 finishes from a Significantly, SSA was instrumental in the discus all aspects of event delivery. team of 43. An amazing strike rate and certainly restructure of the operational model for the In 2012/13 SSA was able to utilise a special grant positive signs for Korea in 2018 and beyond. A major focus of SSA continues to be in the from the ASC to establish SSATV. The ability to communication and sport development produce and distribute our own content has been SSA nominated its largest ever team to represent area. With 11 different event pathways and a milestone in the organisations development. Australia at an Olympic Winter Games. In all communities to service, our aim is to provide Not only were we able to successfully package 43 athletes were selected in ski & snowboard an accessible, relevant flow of information to and sell content for both broadcast and disciplines, which made up over 80% of the athletes and their families. To this end SSA commercial use, SSATV generated content and entire Australian Olympic Team. This number is remains focussed on delivering relevant and profile for many of our sports and programs that on par with some of the largest summer sport easily accessible information pertaining to often fail to gain the profile they deserve. federations including athletics, swimming and pathways and program opportunities. Our sport rowing who routinely nominate between 40-45 handbooks and pathway information available SSATV profiled athletes, events and gave insight athletes to a summer games team. Needless to through our website and in hard copy are often into our wonderful world of wintersports and the say the contrast in resources, both human and referenced as industry best practice by the behind the scenes action that only those inside financial between these summer sports and SSA Australian Sports Commission. the team environment get to experience. More could not be more stark. detail regarding the reach and scope of SSATV SSA understands that in order to be successful, can be found later in the report. During 2013 the ASC began implementation we need to work effectively with program of “The Winning Edge”, the new approach partners at all levels of the pathway from grass 2013 saw the second year of the hugely to high performance funding in Australia. The roots (resorts/interschools) through to elite high successful “Snowracer”. Snowracer is a program policy defined National performance targets and performance (Sporting Institutes). Significant which aims to engage with and provide benefit committed to prioritise funding to those sports effort over the past 12 months has gone into to, the large and active community of recreational that could contribute to those targets. Winter pathway development. The fundamental racers. Developed by SSA and supported by sport was prominent in these National targets, objective is to work with clubs and programs the Australian Ski Areas Association and the particularly in regards to a Top 15 finish on the to improve the overall standard of athletes Australian Sports Commission, the Snowracer medal table for future Olympic Winter Games. and coaches coming through the system. SSA program aimed to double its overall registrations Whilst the formal assessment by the ASC in continued to invest time and resources into from 4,000 in the first year to over 8,000 in year terms of winning edge funding will be done post initiatives that aim to achieve better pathway two. This was achieved. It is estimated that up Sochi, SSA together with our high performance performance include: to 25,000 individuals compete in snowsports program partners are up for the challenge. events each winter, and SSA looks forward to Assuming the ASC can resource the sports to the • Pathway Program Recognition Scheme working with resorts and event operators to level required, SSA is confident that snowsports • Entry level Ski & Snowboard Coaching grow Snowracer and promote the benefits of has the breadth and depth of athletes both programs competing in snow sports regardless of age or present and future to deliver these targets. This • SSA Futures Programs ability.
10 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 11 From a domestic high performance perspective, the highlight of the 2013 Australian event calendar was without doubt the Suzuki National Snowsports Championship series. The series featured over 1100 athletes in seven separate events, across all five of the major resorts. A detailed series recap can be found later in the Annual Report; however, SSA would like to acknowledge and thank Suzuki for their tremendous support over the past three seasons. We are very fortunate to have such fantastic partners for our sport and we are delighted Suzuki has agreed to partner with SSA again in 2014.
Our Institute partners continue to be vital in the delivery of high performance programs. The Olympic Winter Institute, Australian Institute of Sport, NSW Institute of Sport and the Victorian Institute of Sport provide our world class elite athletes with world class sport programs and support structures. The winter sport model remains the envy of many National Sporting Organisations. The ongoing success of Australia in winter sports is due largely to the coordinated and seamless partnerships between SSA and the sport Institutes working together for the common goal of Australian success.
The Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Olympic Committee continue to be significant investors in winter sport both directly to SSA and to our high performance programs through the OWI. I would like to thank both these organisations on behalf of the athletes and coaches for their ongoing support and encouragement.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank the organisations own resources for initial the hard working team in the SSA office. To the investment into an SSA Foundation. The Board Discipline Committee Chair’s, the volunteers and will look to establish a Foundation board the SSA Directors who continue to provide strong together with identifying individuals from the and stable leadership of the organisation, I also broader community to assist with fundraising extend a heartfelt thank you. and investment strategy. The aim of the SSA Foundation is to develop a significant a capital From an organisational perspective, 2014 will fund for investment from which returns can be be a busy year for SSA. Key priority will be distributed back to the discipline pathways. the consolidation of many of the new projects started in the past 12 months. From SSATV to the I wish everyone a safe and successful 12 months Interschools to Snowracer and Futures. and look forward to ongoing growth, relavence and success for Snowsports in Australia. It is important, having established all these initiatives, to ensure they remain relevant Michael Kennedy and sustainable. The SSA Board has been Chief Executive Officer successful in establishing a capital fund from Ski & Snowboard Australia
12 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 13 Sporting Highlights
Snowboard Tour and the X-Games in Aspen. In Slopestyle, Mogul Skiing Torah took out 3rd place at the World Boardercross Championships in Stoneham Canada. The World Cup season resulted in several standout performances, with three of the Alex “Chumpy” Pullin completed another athletes finishing in the top-10 at the World incredible season, becoming the first ever Championships in Voss, Norway in March. Australian to win dual and back-to-back World Slopestyle Championship titles in winter sport. Young Slopestyle Snowboarders, Declan Matthew Graham scored an impressive seventh place at the Olympic Test Event in With seven finals appearances and four Vogel-Paul and Cameron Staveley took advantage of their opportunities by qualifying Sochi, Russia, which he quickly surpassed with a podiums from seven races, Chumpy finished fourth place at the World Championships. on top of the world ranking, scoring the Crystal to compete at World Cup for the first time. They both impressed with Cameron finishing Globe trophy as World Cup Champion for the Britt Cox scored the second world cup podium second time in his career. 7th at the Spindleruv World Cup in the Czech Republic. He followed this up with a 4th place of her career in Lake Placid and an eighth place result at the World Championships. Fellow National Team Members Jarryd in the Junior World Championships in Turkey. Hughes, Cameron Bolton and Belle Brockhoff Declan also had a strong debut by qualifying first in his first World Cup. The strong field at Despite missing last season due to injury, Sam continued their upward trajectory with a Hall returned in style, scoring a top 10 finish at number of strong, elite level performances at the Copper Mountain event saw him finish in 11th spot. the Inawashiro World Cup in Japan and sixth World Cup and World Championship events. and 11th places at the World Championships. Jarryd Hughes best result was an 11th at the World Championships in Canada. Cam Bolton Brodie Summers also had an outstanding finished the season with a 10th place at the Freestyle World Championships in Voss, Norway by World Cup finals in Spain and Belle had two Aerials finishing 7th and then following this up with a Top 10 results finishing 9th in Veysonnaz, 9th in dual moguls. Switzerland and 6th at the OIympic Test Event Reigning Olympic Champion Lydia Lassila in Sochi, Russia. Dual Olympic medallist Dale Begg-Smith returned to competition in spectacular fashion, attended on snow and water jump training claiming 3 silver World Cup medals and placing camps in preparation for the Olympic Winter in the top 10 in all but one event she competed Games qualification period. Halfpipe Halfpipe and Slopestyle in. Holly Crawford returned from injury for an Scotty James had another solid season, Laura Peel, continued her strong form with 5 impressive season, winning silver at the World competing in both Halfpipe and Slopestyle top 10 finishes, including 3 silver World Cup Ski Halfpipe Championships in Stoneham, Canada, her third events. In halfpipe Scotty finished 6th three medals. Teammate Danielle Scott was also medal performance at World Championships. times in World Cup events and once in the impressive with a bronze medal at the World Australia Halfpipe skier, Amy Sheehan Holly won two further World Cup medals, World Championships. He also finished 10th at Championships in Voss, Norway and finished competed in a number of major events during including silver at the Sochi World Cup Olympic the X-Games in Tignes, France. In slopestyle top 10 in every event. the reporting period including World Cup and Test Event, the site of next year’s Olympic Scotty finished 16th at the Snowboard World World Champonships as well as a number of Winter Games. Championships in Stoneham, Canada. Season 2012-2013 in Aerial Skiing also saw professional events. Her best result was a 5th at Australia win its first World Cup in the men’s the SFR Tour event in Tignes France followed Nathan Johnstone won gold at the Copper Torah Bright also competed in both Slopestyle division. David Morris, Australia’s only male by an 8th at the World Cup event at the Winter Mountain World Cup in the USA, and achieved and Halfpipe events this season, while also Aerialist, had a standout season claiming two Games in New Zealand. Amy also finished 14th another two top 10 World Cup finishes. introducing Boardercross into her repertoire World Cup medals, including gold at Bukovel, at the World Championships in Norway. in an attempt to qualify in three disciplines for Ukraine, as well as numerous top 10 results and Teenager Kent Callister ended his first World the Olympic Games in Sochi. In Halfpipe, Torah a fifth place finish at the World Championships. Cup season with three top 20 results, including won the Copper Mountain World Cup in the ninth place at Copper Mountain World Cup. USA and finished 4th at the Breckenridge Dew
14 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 15 Ski Slopestyle During the Southern Winter, the Australia/New Zealand Cup Titles were won Mike Rishworth Anna Segal excelled as a first time AIS in Slalom, Luc Chevalier tied for Giant Slalom, scholarship athlete during the 2012-2013 Greta Small won Slalom, Super G and Super season, scoring a podium place at the two Combined and Lavinia Chrystal won the Giant World Cup events she competed in: Copper Slalom Title. Mountain, USA and Silvaplana, Switzerland. Disappointingly, Anna sustained a knee injury at the Silvaplana event, cutting her International Ski Cross season short. The season in Ski Cross was an exciting one Russ Henshaw continued to prove why he is with Anton Grimus making his mark on the one of the World’s best Slopestyle skiers by sport amongst a number of finals performances achieving 5 top 5 results from the seven events in both the men’s and women’s divisions. he competed in. This included winning The Dew Tour, finishing 2nd in the World Cup event Anton Grimus delivered a career best by at Copper Mtn and a 4th at X-Games Europe. making his first World Cup Ski Cross final and grabbing the bronze medal in Nakiska, Canada. In doing so he smashed his previous personal Alpine Skiing best result of tenth place. He went on to achieve two further top 10 World Cup placing’s For the second year SSA operated its Northern and a seventh place finish at the World Hemisphere Alpine program out of Leogang Championships in Voss, Norway. Austria. 30 athletes attended the program at ‘Australia House’ including members of the Scott Kneller also performed well collecting National Children’s Squad, National Junior five top 15 World Cup results, the highlight Squad, National Alpine Ski Team and members being a seventh place in San Candido in Italy. of the Ski Cross Team. Katya Crema was the best performed female of Australia House was also used as a launch pad the ski cross team achieving four top 10 World individual results were in Freestyle Sprint events for the 2013 Alpine Ski World Championships Cup results and eighth place at the World – Phillip Bellingham’s 50th/73 in Quebec, which were held in Schladming, Austria. This Championships. and Esther Bottomley’s 46th/68 in Canmore. provided a great pre-training opportunity for Bellingham’s consistent performances all the Australian Team which included Greta The Ski and Snowboard Australia Ski Cross season earned him the 2013 Australian Cross Small, Luke Laidlaw, Sam Robertson, Jackson Development Program was based again for Country Skier of the Year award. Team support Coull, Mike Rishworth and Ross Peraudo. the 2012/13 Northern Hemisphere winter in was headed up by coaches August Teague and Greta achieved the best result of the squad Leogang, Salzburg Austria. This continues Finn Marsland. At the end of the season four with a 25th place in the Super Combined. to be a great location for the athlete in the Eight athletes competed at the 2013 World athletes had met the A-qualification standard Development Program. Championship in Italy, including four making for Sochi 2014. The 2013 Junior World Championships their debut at this level of competition. The were held in Quebec, Canada. Australia was Lilly Speiser attained 4 top 16’s on Europa highlights included Esther Bottomley’s 61st A major milestone was reached at the World represented by Greta Small, Ross Peraudo, Cup, 1 in the top 8. Bec Wyatt placed 21st in in the Classic Sprint and Callum Watson’s Junior Championship, with Australia’s first ever Luke Laidlaw and Luc Chevalier. Greta Small the season opening Europa Cup (with a very 67th in the 30km Skiathlon, and also Phillip junior women’s relay team finishing 14th. A had a great Championship with a 2nd place in large World Cup presence), followed by a 5th Bellingham and Callum Watson leading the team of 10 athletes contested the junior and the U18 Super G. at Lenk. Team Sprint for the first of six laps, ending up U23 events, lead by coaches Allison Stoddart placed 25th. Special mention to Anna Trnka and Nick Grimmer. Individual results included Due to poor snow conditions only the and Phillip Bellingham both finishing 11th in two top 50s – Xanthea Dewez 46th and Casey Slalom event was held in the National Alpine Cross Country the 5km and 10km Freestyle qualification races, Wright 50th in the Classic Sprint. Championships. Lavinia Chrystal came back missing the top 10 and progression to the 10km and 15km events by just seconds. from injury to win the Slalom title and Mike 2012-2013 was a big season for the Australian During the domestic winter the 2013 Australian Rishworth won the men’s Slalom title. Dominic Championships were split between five Cross Country Ski Team overseas, involving On the World Cup circuit six athletes contested Demschar and Greta Small won the National 15 National Team athletes, five coaches and athletes – Esther Bottomley (2), Anna Trnka (2), Junior Titles. a record number of 27 events at nine locations Callum Watson (2), Phillip Bellingham and Alex additional waxing/ physiotherapy support at in Europe and North America. The best major events. Almoukov.
16 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 17 Sporting Development
and head coaches, SSA is aiming to achieve As a Participation Demonstration Project made a consistent message of Long Term Athlete possible from funding from the Australian Development and direct more developing Sports Commission (ASC), this program is athletes into pathway programs. on track to register and communicate to ALL participants in any level of ski and snowboard SSA Futures Programs operated in 2013: competition, at any Australian ski resort. In doing so, SSA will be able to: Ski & Snowboard Australia operates a series of The SSA Athlete Pathway relies on a variety • Melbourne Dryland Sessions athlete development and talent identification of different sport program providers to • XC Dryland Sessions – Canberra • Establish an accurate representation of the programs under the name SSA Futures. With operate programs at the elite, underpinning, • XC Dryland Sessions – Sydney extent and relevance of sport within the a vision to further develop the opportunities development and grass-root level. These • Sydney Dryland Sessions industry; and resources for athletes involved in the SSA include a mix of institute providers, resorts, • Free Ski Sessions – Perisher • Identify a targetable category of skiers athlete pathway and to engage with developing clubs, schools and commercial operators. • SBX Sessions – Mt. Hotham and snowboarders for the benefit of the athletes, SSA Futures provides an elite sporting • NSW XC Sessions – Perisher industry and the sport; and environment to achieve the aims as listed below. With the inclusion of new winter sports to the • Vic XC Sessions – Falls Creek 2014 Sochi Olympic program and the ongoing • Encourage increased frequency of participation through better connection • Increase participation in SSA Pathway growth of some of the existing disciplines 2013 Futures Overview: for recreational skiers with our exciting Programs that make up the SSA Athlete Pathway, there • Total Athletes: 174 sport. • Bridge the gap between Interschools is an increasing demand for a structured and • Programs: 8 competition participation and Club consistent approach to sports programming. • Program Days: 17 The principal benefit delivered via the Program involvement With an increasing portfolio of sport programs • Venues: 11 Snowracer registration is a customized Personal • Introduce developing athletes to elite that operate both in Australia and overseas, SSA Accident and Personal Liability insurance cover sport opportunities and elite sports Pathway Program Recognition seeks to formally National Team athletes that assisted include: for individuals participating in any recreational people recognise and provide support to the programs Jenny Owens • Scott Kneller • Katya Crema • competition throughout Australia. • Increase knowledge of the athlete which play a vital role in the development of Sami Kennedy • Anton Grimus • Russ Henshaw pathway, selection criteria and the various athletes in the pathway. • Jordan Houghton • Boen Ferguson • Charlie The insurance cover is provided free of charge opportunities, resources and programs Timmins • Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin • Jarryd Hughes to those individuals that register with Snowracer. available to Australian snow sports athletes Through its endorsement of various clubs/ • Belle Brockoff • Cameron Bolton • Anna Trnka In the event of injury, Snowracer Insurance • Establish a consistent and unified programs, SSA Pathway Program Recognition • Casey Wright • Dani Scott • Renee McElduff will reimburse up to $500 per person for any approach to Long Term Athlete aims to provide guidance to athletes and costs relating to participation in a recreational Development give recognised clubs/ programs a point of National Team coaches that assisted include: competition event. The cover is provided • Engage our National Team athletes in difference in the market place. By ensuring that Ben Wordsworth - OWI Snowboard Head Coach through Sportscover Insurance, Australia’s pathway initiatives each club/ program that achieves ‘Pathway Matt Lyons - OWI Ski Cross Head Coach largest recreational sports insurance provider. • Enhance technical ability, athleticism and Program’ recognition meets the necessary Shawn Flemming - SSA Devo Ski Cross Coach competition performance while educating requirements, it will provide a level of quality Finn Marsland – SSA Cross Country Program Snowracer participants can register and renew developing athletes in ‘what it takes’ to assurance and confidence for athletes and Manager their registrations through the dedicated become an elite athlete their families when making a decision on which Nick Grimmer – XC Junior World Team Coach website; Snowracer.com.au. Additionally • Encourage involvement in SSA domestic program to commit or aspire to. Snowsports Competitors were able to register ski/snowboard events 2014 will see the expansion of the SSA Futures with Snowracer via Resorts, State Sporting program to include more opportunities for Organisations, Interschools and other Event SSA Futures engages our elite, national team young snowsport athletes to receive coaching online entries systems. athletes and coaches across multiple disciplines and instruction from Australia’s National Team to deliver a unique program. Participants are Under the brand Snowracer, SSA continues Coaches and athletes. The Snowracer website continues to be an able to receive technical feedback, mentoring, to engage with and promote to a wide and informational tool, which aims directly at the and pathway direction from athletes who have diverse community of recreational snowsports recreational competitor from resort snowsports gone through the system successfully before competitors. In 2013, Snowracer successfully school level, interschools and mature age club/ them. Utilising the first class training venues and registered almost 8000 recreational ski and corporate event participants. The website facilities that our national team athletes train snowboard competitors. is a vital part of the Snowracer initiative and on, and with the support of our national team
18 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 19 communication tool. Additionally Snowracer unified approach to sports programming and conditions with insufficient snow on preferred Enews and Facebook page will continue to be athlete development. event locations. Therefore the event discipline developed, as a direct means of communication Cross-Country Classic, was altered to include to the wider snowsports community. The courses provide existing coaches and Cross-Country Freestyle. Cross-Country Relay high level APSI Instructors (minimum Level 2 was also held. To assist with the future planning of the required as a prerequisite) the opportunity to Snowracer program, a Snowracer Survey was develop their coaching ability and further their For the first time, the Interschools conducted late 2013. 834 respondents complete qualification, while also enabling athletes and Championships included the Victorian this survey, providing valuable feedback on those from a sports background to remain Interschools Multiclass Event. The Victorian Snowracer and the Snowsports community. involved in the sport. Interschools Snowsports Committee (VISC) worked collectively with Disabled Wintersport SSA would like to acknowledge and thank Australia (DWA), Special Olympics Victoria ASAA and other Snowracer Supporters, who (SOV), and a parent group, to introduce a promoted and provided information to our new event that provides school aged students snowsports community. with physical or intellectual special needs, with an opportunity to compete at Victorian In 2014, SSA will continue to build on the Interschools. 18 competitors from 4 secondary “Snowracer” initiative, and look forward to schools took part of the very successful event, in engaging with our community of recreational which medals were awarded to winner of various racers individually, and as a whole. categories. In 2012, SSA entered into a heads of agreement with Mt Buller, to grant a 5 year The 2013 Subaru Australian Interschools licence to operate the Victorian Interschools Snowsports Championships were also held in SSA National Coaching Snowsports Championships from 2013-2018. Mt Buller, attracting 2,757 event entries from Accreditation Scheme Under the Hosting Agreement, Mt Buller is 175 schools across NSW, ACT, Victoria, South responsible for the operation and delivery of Australia, Queensland, and Tasmania. Despite In 2013 SSA was pleased to continue to offer the event including event schedule, budget, the unfavorable snow conditions, the National coaches the opportunity to develop and gain communication, sponsorship, risk management, Championships were very successful with all qualifications as part of a National Coach and policies. David Speirs is employed as the events running to schedule. The Nationals Accreditation Scheme (NCAS). The SSA Ski current Victorian Interschools Event Manager. rotate back to NSW in 2014. Coach Level 1 and SSA Snowboard Coach Level 1 course are endorsement from the Australian Under the Hosting Agreement, the Mt Buller Sports Commission and following the success Resort pays a Licence fee to SSA, two thirds To preserve the national website for the of its inaugural season courses were once again of which is channeled to the SSA Foundation Australian Interschools Snowsports Events, a delivered at various resorts throughout the 2013 with the remainder ear-marked for school age Buller has staged the Victorian Interschools new website was developed and is co-owned winter season via service provider - Australian athlete development. Snowsports Championships. between SSA and NSW Interschools. The site Professional Snow Instructors (APSI). is also made available to Snowsports ACT, While the responsibility for the operation The 2013 Subaru Victorian Interschools South Australia, and Queensland. The website The Level 1 courses are aimed at up-skilling and delivery of the Event rests with Mt Buller Snowsports Championships attracted 2,320 includes the online entry system, and direct coaches that are working with athletes at the as a whole, SSA established the Victorian competitors, with 5016 event entries from 149 email via eNews to registered recipients. The ‘FUNdamentals’ and ‘Learn to Train’ phases of Interschools Snowsports Committee (VISC) Victorian Schools. The Championships offered website continues to be upgraded. the Athlete Pathway and form the foundation to provide an expert interface between Mt seven different event disciplines: Alpine, Skier of a coach pathway which provides each skiing/ Buller as the provider of the Event and key cross, Freestyle Moguls, Snowboard Giant Under inconsistent snow conditions and with snowboarding discipline the opportunity to participating stakeholders being Victorian Slalom, and Snowboard Cross. During a week of a new event management team, 2013 was develop higher levels of coach training and Schools and Snowsports. The Victorian adverse snow conditions and temperatures, the again, a very successful year for the Victorian accreditation. Interschools Snowsports Committee comprises majority of events were on schedule, with a high and National Interschools Championships. of 11 members and draws upon the three pillars level of professionalism and efficiency from the SSA would like to acknowledge and thank the The SSA Coach pathway and in particular of Interschools Snowsports being Schools, Mt Buller Race and Events team. Schools, VISC, BSL, BIA, the Mt Buller Race and the Level 1 courses provide a much needed Snowsports, and Host Resort. Working with the Event Team, Volunteers and Competitors, for sport/competition specific emphasis to the National Cross-Country Committee, the VISC The 2013 Subaru Victorian Interschools your continuous commitment and support of development of our grass-roots, Interschools has recently appointed an official Cross Country Cross-Country Championships attracted 421 the Interschools Championships. Interschools and entry level SSA Pathway Program athletes. advisor to assist with future planning of the competitors, with a total of 763 event entries as a grassroots event, is vital to the growth and Through aligning the coach pathway with each Cross Country Event. from 41 Victorian Schools. These record development of the Snowsports Industry. We discipline’s Long Term Athlete Development numbers were an increase of 10% over 2012. look forward to the 2014 Victorian Interschools model (LTAD) it will enable a consistent and The 2013 Event marked the 56th year Mt The event experienced extremely challenging Championships.
20 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 2121 Australian Ski & Snowboard Awards
Athlete of the Year Winner Alex Pullin Boardercross Finalists Anton Grimus Ski Cross David Morris Aerials Britteny Cox Moguls Russ Henshaw Ski Slopestyle Holly Crawford Snowboard Halfpipe Torah Bright Snowboard Slopestyle Nominees Greta Small Alping Skiing Phillip Bellingham Cross Country Junior Athlete of the Year Winner Britteny Cox Moguls Belle Brockhoff Boardercross Finalists Greta Small Alpine Skiing Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin, was named as Australia’s Suzuki Snowsports Athlete of the Year following Scotty James Snowboard Halfpipe the succesful defense of his World Championships Cameron Staveley Snowboard Slopestyle Boardercross title. Nominees Rebecca Wyatt Ski Cross Anna Trnka Cross Country This is the third successive year that a snowboarder has been named Athlete of the Year following Nathan Johnstone winning in Rising Star Cameron Staveley Snowboard 2012 and four athletes (Nate Johnstone, Holly Crawford, Alex Pullin and Anna Segal) sharing Outstanding Achievement Aerial Skiing Program the honour in 2011. Snowboard Slopestyle rider, Cameron Staveley was named the Rising Star following his debut Coach of the Year Ben Wordsworth Snowboard Alex was presented with his award by Andrew season on the World Cup circuit which included Ellis from Suzuki at the 2013 Australian Ski & a 7th at Spindleruv and a 4th at the World Junior Snowboard Awards in Melbourne. Championships. Development Coach of the Year Peter Topalovic Freestyle The 26 year-old Olympic Winter Institute A new award this year introduced to recognise scholarship holder finished the 2013 season the work of individuals to improve snowsport Participation & Sport ranked second in the world. participation and develop snowsports. The winner of the inaugural Participation & Sport Development Allison Stoddart Finalists for the award were Anton Grimus, Development Award was Allison Stoddart for her David Morris, Britteny Cox, Russ Henshaw, Holly work implementing the Australian Fast & Female Crawford and Torah Bright. event which have over 120 Cross Country skiers participate. Mogul Skier, Britteny Cox was named Junior Thank you to the following sponsors and supporters of the Australian Ski & Snowboard Awards Athlete of the Year for the third successive year Thank you to all the sponsors and supporters following another strong season on the World of the Austrlalian Ski & Snowboard Awards and Cup circuit, including a podium in Lake Placid. congratulations to all our award winners.
22 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 23 Suzuki National Snowsport Championships
The 2013 Suzuki Nationals Snowsport The fifth event of the Suzuki series was the In the mens event first time winner Brodie Championship Series was another outstanding Kangaroo Hoppet at Victoria’s Fall’s Creek, Summers beat fellow National Mogul Team success. celebrating the 23rd running of this world class members Matt Graham for line honours event. while in the womens Nicole Parks beat Madi Hundreds of dedicated full time professionals Himbury. and volunteers have invested thousands With more than 1000 cross country skiers from of hours into presenting this year’s series, 25 nations, it is the biggest snowsport carnival Ski & Snowboard Australia CEO Michael boasting seven quality events across five skiing in the southern hemisphere. Kennedy said that this year’s Suzuki National and snowboarding disciplines at Australia’s top Snowsport Championships had easily five resorts. The feature event on the program is the exceeded his expectations. Hoppet itself, a test of human endeavor and The series opener at Mt Hotham, the Alpine resilience, the opening round of this year’s 16- “When you think about the number of Australia/NZ Cup (ANC) was unfortunatley race long distance cross country Worldloppet competitors from Australia and the many postponed due to snow conditions however series, spanning four continents and 16 overseas countries represented, the quality was rescheduled as part of the National nations. of the athletes, the number of spectators, the Championships at Thredbo. spread of events across each of our five major It is regarded by many in the sport as the resorts throughout Australia, and of course the Thredbo was also met with difficult conditions next best thing after the Olympics and World sheer excitement that went with the results, but with the hard work from the resort and the Championships. this year’s championships were a resounding Thredbo Ski Racing Club they managed to host success,” Kennedy said. a National Junior Championships, National This year’s Hoppet attracted one of the Championships and the postponsed ANC strongest fields in the event’s history. Apart “We are delighted that Suzuki is our major races. from more than 550 Australian athletes, top sponsor and it goes without saying that without ranked athletes from Russia, Norway and their generous support, the championships The next stop saw the series journey across Finland provided exciting racing. would not have reached the international the valley to Perisher for National Mogul standard that we have seen each year of their Championships and a round of the prestigious Alexander Legkov and Ilya Chernousov from association. Continental Cup. Russia were far too dominant taking out first and second. “I want to also acknowledge and thank each Fine conditions met the competitors with of the host mountains and their many staff Matt Graham taking out the mens event on Mt Hotham once again hosted the SBX Festival and volunteers who have provided great both days and the womens event being won on its undulating course under the Roadrunner experience and organisational skills to ensure by Taylah O’Neill on day one and Natsume Chair. This year saw more than 60 athletes that this year we have seen, I believe, the best Mizutani from Japan on day 2. competing across men, women and in the National series in many years.” reintroduced Grommets section. Stage four of the series, the Ski Cross ANC, was at Victoria’s Mt Hotham resort. With an National Team members featured on the ominous weather forestcast the Organising podium both days of competition with Belle Committee decided to run the two qualifying Brockhoff taking home a first and second while events on the first day with the hope of Cam Bolton won on day 1 and Daniel Morrissy clear weather for good competition on day took the honours on day 2. two. Unfortuantely this wasn’t to be and the qualifying results were used as the competition To round out this years series, the famous could not be held. This saw Australian skier ABOM Mogul Challenge was included on the Katya Crema win both events for the women schedule for the first time. This dual mogul and international skiers occupying the top four event is always action packed and brings positions in both mens events. together the best of current and past athletes.
24 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 25 SSATV
Since its inception in October 2012 SSATV View stats include:
• Over 60 000 hits on the SSATV YouTube channel • Multiple segments on channel 9’s Wide World of Sport with a viewership of over 250 000 • 4 airings of Generation Snow segment. Viewership of 200 000 for each • SSATV content featured on ABC Australian The SSATV initiative was first implemented in Story. 300 000 viewership October 2012 with the focus to cover key areas • Australian Olympic Committee use of of Australian Wintersport via online digital SSATV video for Sochi online campaign. content that is currently not covered. Over 1 000 000 total hits.
Lucas Wilkinson, who has worked on a number www.ssatv.com.au of snowsport productions was hired to produce all content for the SSATV initiative in-house. www.youtube.com/SkiandSnowboardAust Both a YouTube channel and dedicated website were created including specific ‘channels’ such as the Women in sport focused ‘Women of Winter’.
During January and February of 2013 SSATV travelled overseas to to film and procude content of Australian athletes as they prepared for the Sochi Olympic Winter Games the following year. This trip included stops in Colorado for the Copper Mountain World Cup. Quebec, Canada for the FIS Snowboard World Championships. Leogang, Austria for the Australian Alpine base and finally onto Sochi, Russia for the Olympic test events.
Beyond appearing on SSA’s own digital network, Channel 10 also used SSATV footage for their broadcast of the Olympic Winter Games and a Women in Sport focused segment was created for the television show Generation Snow that aired on Network 10 a total of 4 times.
In addition to this SSATV embarked on a successful domestic season, covering the Suzuki National Snowsports Championships, domestic training camps and the Development Futures Programs.
26 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 2727 Program Partners
The Olympic Winter Institute While it is clearly the role of the OWIA to operate Olympic Solidarity, the development arm of SSA Contributes in excess of $120,000 to the of Australia (OWIA) is Ski & elite programming, whenever possible the OWIA the International Olympic Committee (IOC) operation of these programs. Snowboard Australia’s major will provide technical assistance to SSA to benefit provides technical and financial support for the high performance program the further development of the elite athletes of development of sport through programs devised The sport program operations are managed by partner, operating elite level tomorrow with opportunities for younger athletes to match specific sports needs and priorities. For Peter Topalovic and based out of Jindabyne Sport programs in Aerial Skiing, to work with the very best technical staff available. the period of November 2012 to February 2014, & Rec. The southern hemisphere on-snow training Mogul Skiing, Ski Cross, Ski and Snowboard Australia was able to benefit is conducted at Kosciusko Thredbo and Perisher Slopestyle Skiing, Snowboard Cross and from Olympic Scholarships for Athletes in the sum ski resorts. Snowboard Half Pipe. The Australian Olympic of USD 232,000. Committee (AOC) has the The Australian Olympic Committee formed exclusive responsibility for the In addition, the AOC supported the OWIA to the The Victorian Institute of Sport the Australian Institute of Winter Sports (AIWS) representation of Australia at the extent of $1 million during 2013 and the AOC’s (VIS) is a program partner after the Nagano Winter Olympics in 1998, to Olympic Winter Games. current budgeting for the 2014 Olympic Winter of SSA for the delivery of enable the development of elite performances in Team to Sochi is $3.3 million. the highly successful Aerial winter sports by Australian athletes, through the To help achieve Australian Development & Transition provision of adequate funding, world-class sports Olympic Winter Team objectives, Program. The Aerial program programming and technical coaching. the AOC provides funding (AOC SSA partners with is a Tier 1 program of the VIS. Funding) to its member National the NSW Institute On July 1st 2001, the organisation was renamed to Federations (NFs), athletes and coaches. of Sport (NSWIS) to The VIS/SSA Aerial development program is a become the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia operate National world leading acrobatic transitional program that (OWIA). The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) AOC Funding is derived from income distributions High Performance continues to produce a talented stream of elite contributes over $1 million towards the operation from the Australian Olympic Foundation, grants development programs in Mogul Skiing, level athletes to the OWI aerial program. The of OWIA programs. The AOC also provide from the International Olympic Committee Snowboard and Ski Cross. program is funded by the VIS and SSA, and is International Competition Grants directly to SSA (IOC), the licensing and sponsorship activities based at Mt.Buller during the domestic season and for non-OWIA program sports. of the AOC and fundraising by the AOC, State NSWIS contributes over $310,000 in cash and kind in Snowbasin Resort in Utah during the Northern Olympic Councils and their Olympic Team Appeal per annum to operate and manage the programs. Winter. Snowbasin is an important partner in the The OWIA is a partnership program of the Committees. Aerial Program. Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and receives funding of over $1.5 million from the Australian AOC Funding for the 2014 Olympic Winter The VIS provides $130,000 in cash support to the Sports Commission and the Australian Institute of Team preparation is determined in accordance Aerial Development program along with use of the Sport. with its Program and Funding Guidelines for the facility at Albert Park. SSA contributes in excess of 2014 Olympic Winter Games, Sochi (Guidelines). $100,000 to the operation of the program. At present, the OWIA employs 12 coaching staff, Specifically, AOC Funding is provided through one 12 athlete program/support staff and provides of three programs: Further to the Aerial Program support, the VIS also sport program scholarship opportunities for up provide scholarships to individual athletes, Esther to 35 athletes across ten winter sport disciplines: • AOC Funding for International Competition Bottomley (Cross Country), Anna Segal (Slopestyle) Aerial Skiing, Mogul Skiing, Ski Cross, Slopestyle • adidas Medal Incentive Funding and Scotty James (Snowboard). Skiing, Snowboard Cross, Snowboard Half Pipe, • Olympic Winter Institute of Australia (OWIA) Figure Skating, Long Track Speed Skating, Short support Track Speed Skating and Skeleton. In addition, the OWIA supported individual athletes who are not For the calendar year 2013, the AOC committed to a part of an OWIA scholarship program, through provide the following support to Ski & Snowboard targeted Sochi 2014 High Performance Initiative Australia, its athletes and coaches: funding in Snowboard Half Pipe & Slopestyle, Falls Creek is the National Training Centre for the Slopestyle Skiing and Bobsleigh. AOC Funding for International Competition SSA Cross Country Program. $152,500 The OWIA also works closely with Ski & adidas Medal Incentive Funding $83,400 SSA Southern Winter Cross country activities take Snowboard Australia and the State Institutes Alex Pullin $20,000 place largely at Falls Creek, and in return the resort of Sport to supply an overall national technical Nathan Johnstone $20,000 has agreed to contribute $25,000 per annum to the direction for the individual discipline throughout Holly Crawford $13,400 National Team program. SSA contributes a further the athlete pathway in Australia. Danielle Scott $10,000 $80,000 to the National Team Program. Britteny Cox $10,000
28 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 29 Financial Report
Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited
31 October 2013
30 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 31 3
Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited ACN 063 859 423 Directors' Report
Contents Your Directors present their report on Ski and Snowboard Australia Limited for the financial year ended 31 October 2013.
Directors The names of the directors in office at any time during or since the end of the year are: Dean Gosper Nicholas Kennedy Page Kim Clifford Suzie Warwick Directors' Report 3-6 Hugh Whan Manuela Berchtold Auditor's Independence Declaration 7 Richie Biggins Steve Cooper Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income 8 Directors have been in office since the start of the financial year to the date of this report unless Statement of Financial Position 9 otherwise stated.
Statement of Changes in Equity 10 Principal activities The principal activities of the company during the year were the administration of the sports of skiing Statement of Cash Flows 11 and snowboarding in Australia. No significant changes in the nature of these activities occurred during the financial year. Notes to the Financial Statements 12-20 The entity's short-term objectives are to: Directors' Declaration 21 - Ensure Australia remains a successful nation at World Cup, World Championships and Olympic Games. - Increase participation and community interest in competitive Snow Sports at all levels. - Strengthen network of coaches, volunteers, technical officials and administrators who provide support of Auditor's Report 22-23 competitive Snow Sports in Australia. - Generate financial resources and provide effective administration, and communication.
The entity's long-term objectives are to: - Create Snow Sports champions by providing clear and supported athlete pathways.
To achieve these objectives, the entity has adopted the following strategic priorities: - High Performance - Sport Development & Participation - People Development - Business Development
Key Performance Measures The company measures its own performance through the use of both qualitative and quantitative benchmarks. The benchmarks are used by the directors to assess the financial sustainability of the company and whether the company's short term and long-term objectives are being achieved.
32 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 33 4 5
Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423 Directors' Report Directors' Report Information on Directors Richie Biggins Dean Gosper Qualifications Advertising and Marketing. Qualifications Degree in Law and Bachelor of Economics. Experience 1988 Olympian - Alpine Skiing. More than 20 years in the Media and Advertising industry working in Radio, Experience Served on the SSA Board since 1997. Digital and Mobile. President of SSA since 2004. Expertise in Commercial Sales and Sponsorship, change management, sales Member of International Ski Federation Council. management and product management. Nicholas Kennedy Steve Cooper Qualifications Graduate Management Program UNSW. Qualifications Diploma Visual Arts Education. Experience Director SSA since 2009. Experience Board Member of SSA since 2010. Skills based board member Tourism Snowy Mountains since 2009. Board Member of NSW Snowsports since 2005. Board of Marketing Snow Australia since 2011. Chair of NSW Interschool's Snowsports since 2003. Kim Clifford Chair of NSW Freestyle Snowsports since 2005. Qualifications Associated Degree in Applied Science, JP NSW. National SSA Freestyle Committee member since 2005. Experience 40 Years of experience in the Australian Tourism. Currently employed as the Deputy Principal of Jindabyne Central School - NSW. Ski Resort business. Member of SSA Freestyle Committee. 1976 Olympian - Alpine Skiing. National Participation & Development involvement through position as Chair of NSW Interschool's Snowsports. Suzie Warwick Chair of Interschool's Australia. Qualifications BA Communications, Member of Women In Sport. Experience Board Member SSA since 2009. Director, Wow Factor Productions – 10 years. CEO OvCa (Ovarian Cancer Australia) 2 years. Meeting of Directors Media/Marketing Sport, SOCOG (Sydney Organising Committee Olympic During the financial year, 5 meetings of directors were held. Games) – 2 years. Attendances by each director were as follows: Account Director, Sports Marketing & Management/Javelin Communications – Directors' Meetings 5 years. Number Hugh Whan eligible to Qualifications Fellow of Recruitment Consulting Services Association. attend Number attended Experience Director of SSA since 1997. Dean Gosper 5 5 Chairman 97-2003. Nicholas Kennedy 5 4 Chair Audit Committee and Finance Committee of SSA. Kim Clifford 5 5 SSA Remuneration Committee. Suzie Warwick 5 5 Manuela Berchtold Hugh Whan 5 5 Qualifications Advanced Diploma in Medial Massage. Manuela Berchtold 5 4 Cert 3 + 4 Fitness Instructor. Richie Biggins 5 5 Experience Director of SSA since 2009. Steve Cooper 5 2 Olympian 2002 and 2006. Director and Founder of Future Olympian Scholarship Program since 2002. Owner and Founder of High Country Fitness. Members guarantee: Campus Director for Aust Institute of Personal Trainers. The entity is incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 and is a company limited by guarantee. SSA Athlete Commission representative. If the company is wound up, the constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $1 each towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the company. At 31 October 2013, the total amount that members of the company are liable to contribute if the company is wound up is $395 (2012: $429)
34 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 35 36 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 3737 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 8 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 9 ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423
Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Statement of Financial Position Comprehensive Income as at 31 October 2013 for the year ended 31 October 2013
Note 2013 2012 $ $ Current assets
Cash 5 640,451 1,060,153 Note 2013 2012 Trade and other receivables 6 701,851 231,346 $ $ Inventories 7 - 25,529
Other current assets 8 77,403 25,531 Revenue 2 2,659,369 2,570,055 Total current assets 1,419,705 1,342,559
SSA - Program Operation and Grants (1,272,088) (1,362,491) Non-current assets NSWIS/VIS - Program Operation (277,113) (280,129) Property, plant and equipment 9 88,809 98,218 OWI - Program Operation (241,000) (240,000) Total non-current assets 88,809 98,218 SSA - Other Discipline Expenses (103,554) (122,390) 3 Employee benefits expenses (466,316) (386,971) Total assets 1,508,514 1,440,777 Depreciation and amortisation expenses 3 (12,873) (11,821) Other expenses 3 (200,945) (134,339) Current liabilities Trade and other payables 10 1,061,327 1,035,798 Profit before income tax 85,480 31,914 Provisions 11 19,867 42,152 Total current liabilities 1,081,194 1,077,950 Income tax expense 1 - - Non-current liabilities Profit for the year 85,480 31,914 Provisions 11 14,667 35,654 Total non-current liabilities 14,667 35,654
Other comprehensive income for the year, net of Total liabilities 1,095,861 1,113,604 income tax - - Net assets 412,653 327,173 Total comprehensive income for the year 85,480 31,914 Equity Retained earnings 412,653 327,173
Total equity 412,653 327,173
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
38 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 39 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 10 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 11 ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423
Statement of Changes in Equity Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 31 October 2013 for the year ended 31 October 2013
Note 2013 2012 Retained $ $ Earnings Total Cash flows from operating activities $$ Receipts from operations 2,166,064 2,410,312 Payments to suppliers and employees (2,596,028) (2,095,084) Balance at 1 November 2011 295,259 295,259 Interest received 22,800 32,228 Finance costs (9,074) (13,299) Total comprehensive income for the year 31,914 31,914 Net cash provided by operating activities (416,238) 334,157
Balance at 31 October 2012 327,173 327,173 Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of property, plant and equipment (3,464) (11,615) Balance at 1 November 2012 327,173 327,173 Net cash used in investing activities (3,464) (11,615) Net change in cash and cash equivalents held (419,702) 322,542 Total comprehensive income for the year 85,480 85,480 Cash at beginning of financial year 1,060,153 737,611 Cash at end of financial year 5 640,451 1,060,153 Balance at 31 October 2013 412,653 412,653
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
40 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 41 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 12 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 13 ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423 Notes to the financial statements Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 October 2013 for the year ended 31 October 2013
1 Statement of significant accounting policies 1 Statement of significant accounting policies
Basis of preparation Income Tax Ski and Snowboard Australia Limited has elected to early adopt the Australian Accounting Standards - The Company is classified as a sports association and is therefore exempt from Income Tax under Reduced Disclosure Requirements as set out in AASB 1053: Application of Tiers of Australian Accounting Div 50 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997. Standards and AASB 2010-2: Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements. Consequently, the company has also early adopted the following reduced disclosure Cash and Cash Equivalents (Tier 2) standards: Cash comprises cash on hand, deposits held at-call with banks and other short-term deposits. - AASB 2011-2: Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from the Trans-Tasman Convergence Project - Reduced Disclosure Requirements which incorporates Tier 2 disclosure requirements for For the purposes of the Statement of Cash Flows, cash includes cash on hand and in banks, and money amendments made to AASB 101: Presentation of Financial Statements and AASB 1054: Australian market investments readily convertible to cash within two working days, net of outstanding bank Additional Disclosures; overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are carried at the principal amount. Interest is charged as an expense as - AASB 2011-11: Amendments to AASB 119 (September 2011) arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements it accrues. which contains the Tier 2 disclosure requirements for AASB 119: Employee Benefits (September 2011).
Property, Plant and Equipment The financial statements are general purpose financial statements that have been prepared in accordance Each class of property, plant and equipment is carried at cost or fair value less, where applicable, any with Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements of the Australian Accounting accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Standards Board and the Corporations Act 2001. The company is a not-for-profit entity for financial reporting purposes under the Australian Accounting Standards. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow Australian Accounting Standards set out accounting policies that the AASB has concluded would to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance result in financial statements containing relevant and reliable information about transactions, events are charged to profit or loss during the financial period in which they are incurred. and conditions. Material accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial statements are presented below and have been consistently applied unless otherwise stated. Depreciation
The financial statements, except for the cash flow information, have been prepared on an accruals basis Depreciation is provided using the reducing balance method on all plant and equipment & and are based on historical costs, modified, where applicable, by the measurement at fair value of motor vehicle, and the straight line method on buildings, at the following depreciation rates: selected non-current assets, financial assets and financial liabilities. The amounts presented in the finacial statements have been rounded to the nearest dollar. Asset Class Depreciation Rate
Accounting policies Land and buildings 10% Office furniture and equipment 40 - 50% Revenue Motor Vehicles 23% Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the company and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific recognition criteria must The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each reporting also be met before revenue is recognised: period date. An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount. Grant Revenue Generally, grant revenue is recognised as income over the periods necessary to match them with Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount. These related costs which they are intended to compensate, on a systematic basis. For any grants that have gains or losses are included in the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income. been received in current year and related costs are likely to incur in the future accounting period, they are recognized as deferred income. Trade and Other Payables Trade and other payables represent the liability outstanding at the end of the reporting period for Interest goods and services received by the Company during the reporting period, which remain unpaid. Revenue is recognised when the company's right to receive payment is established.
42 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 43 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 14 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 15 ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423 Notes to the financial statements Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 October 2013 for the year ended 31 October 2013
1 Statement of significant accounting policies 1 Statement of significant accounting policies
Employee Benefits Goods and Services Tax (GST) Liabilities for employee benefits arising from services rendered by employees to reporting date, Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST, except where the amount of which are expected to be settled within one year have been measured at the amounts GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office. In these circumstances, the GST expected to be paid when the liability is settled, plus related on-costs. is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of an item of the expense. Employee benefits payable later than one year have been measured at the present value of the Receivables and payables in the statement of financial position are shown inclusive of GST. estimated future cash outflows to be made for those benefits. Cash flows are presented in the statement of cash flows on a gross basis, except for the GST component of investing and financing activities, which are disclosed as operating cash flows. Provisions Provisions are recognised when the Company has a legal or constructive obligation, as a result of past Comparative Figures events, for which it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will result and that outflow can When required by Accounting Standards, comparative figures have been adjusted to conform to be reliably measured. changes in presentation for the current financial year.
Provisions are measured using the best estimate of amounts required to settle the obligation at the end Critical accounting estimates and judgments of the reporting period. The Company evaluates estimates and judgments incorporated into the financial statements based on Impairment of assets historical knowledge and best available current information. Estimates assume a reasonable expectation At each reporting date, the Company reviews the carrying values of its tangible assets to determine of future events and are based on current trends and economic data, obtained both externally and whether there is any indication that those assets have been impaired. If such an indication exists, within the Company. Actual results may differ from these estimates. the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the asset's fair value less costs to sell and value in use, is compared to the asset's carrying value. Any excess of the asset's carrying The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting value over its recoverable amount is expensed to the statement of profit or loss and other estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that comprehensive income. period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods. Financial Instruments Initial recognition and measurement Key estimates — Impairment of non-financial assets Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the entity becomes a party to The Company assesses impairment at each reporting date by evaluating conditions and events specific the contractual provisions of the instrument. For financial assets, this is equivalent to the date that to the Company that may be indicative of impairment triggers. Recoverable amounts of relevant assets the Company commits itself to either purchase or sell the asset. are reassessed using value-in-use calculations which incorporate various key assumptions.
Financial instruments are initially measured at fair value plus transactions costs where the instrument is not classified as at fair value through profit or loss. Transaction costs related to instruments classified as at fair value through profit or loss are expensed to profit or loss immediately. Financial instruments are classified and measured as set out below.
Classification and subsequent measurement Receivables Receivables are financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market and are stated at amortised cost.
Financial liabilities Non-derivative financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost. 44 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 45 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 16 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 17 ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423 Notes to the financial statements Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 October 2013 for the year ended 31 October 2013 2013 2012 2013 2012 $ $ $ $
2 Revenue
Government Grants 1,051,820 973,309 5 Cash Programme Fees 838,002 965,480 Other Grants 234,116 244,457 Cash at bank 640,451 1,060,153 Corporate Sponsorship 129,500 99,000 640,451 1,060,153 Subscriptions and Affiliation Fees 46,184 45,817 Interest received 22,800 32,228 Bank Overdraft Facility Other Income 336,947 209,764 At balance date and prior year, the company had an Total revenue 2,659,369 2,570,055 unused overdraft facility amounting to $75,000.
3 Expenses 6 Trade and other receivables
Employee benefits expense includes: Current Administration staff salary related costs 428,996 358,827 Trade receivables 714,304 268,710 Contributions to employee superannuation funds 37,320 28,144 Provision for doubtful debts (12,453) (42,098) 466,316 386,971 Goods and services tax - 4,734 701,851 231,346 Depreciation and amortisation expense Land and buildings - 3,000 Office furniture and equipment 9,896 4,980 7 Inventories Motor Vehicles 2,977 3,841 Total depreciation and amortisation expense 12,873 11,821 Current Finished goods at cost - 25,529 Other expenses - 25,529 Provision for contribution to Ski and Snowboard Foundation 100,000 50,000 Write-off of obsolete inventory - 1,248 8 Other assets Finance costs paid 9,074 13,299 Current Prepayments 77,403 25,531 4 Key management personnel compensation 77,403 25,531
Total remuneration paid to key management and discipline coordination personnel of the Company. Included amounts drawn from administration staff salary related costs and discipline program staff costs 365,390 341,848
46 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 47 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 18 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 19 ACN 063 859 423 ACN 063 859 423 Notes to the financial statements Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 October 2013 for the year ended 31 October 2013 2013 2012 2013 2012 $ $ $ $
9 Property, plant and equipment 10 Trade and other payables Land and buildings Land - at cost (a) 70,000 70,000 Current Buildings - at cost (a) 30,000 30,000 Deferred income 412,071 686,758 Less: accumulated depreciation (30,000) (30,000) Other creditors and accrued expenses 499,256 299,040 70,000 70,000 Ski and Snowboard Foundation (a) 150,000 50,000 1,061,327 1,035,798 Office furniture and equipment At cost 22,286 18,822 Less: accumulated depreciation (13,731) (3,835) (a) Contribution obligations in respect of the establishment of a charitable foundation (Ski and 8,555 14,987 Snowboard Foundation) with the objective of obtaining sponsorship, funding, and providing support to maintain ski and snowboard activities to current and future Ski and Snowboard Motor Vehicles Australia athletes. At cost 31,364 31,364 Less: accumulated depreciation (21,110) (18,133) 11 Provisions 10,254 13,231
Total property, plant and equipment 88,809 98,218 Current Annual leave 15,915 33,070 (a) These amounts relate to land and buildings at Lilydale (Vic) purchased for a training facility. Long-service leave 3,952 9,082 Title is subject to subdivision. Should clear title not be available and the property is sold to a 19,867 42,152 third party, the consideration paid will be refunded. Non-current (b) Movements in carrying amounts Long-service leave 14,667 35,654 14,667 35,654 Movements in the carrying amounts for each class of property, plant and equipment between the beginning and end of the current financial year:
12 Contingent assets and liabilities Land & Office Motor Total Buildings furniture & Vehicles equipment The Company has no contingent assets or liabilities as at year end. $ $ $ $
Balance at the 70,000 14,987 13,231 98,218 beginning of the year 13 Events after the reporting date
Additions/ - 3,464 - 3,464 Disposals No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly Depreciation expense - (9,896) (2,977) (12,873) affected or may significantly affect the operations of the Company, the results of those operations, Balance at the end of 70,000 8,555 10,254 88,809 or the state of affairs of the Company in future financial years. the year
48 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 49 Ski & Snowboard Australia Limited 20 ACN 063 859 423 Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 October 2013 2013 2012 $ $
14 Related party transactions
There were no transactions with directors or director related parties during the year ended 31 October 2013.
15 Financial risk management
The Company's financial instruments consist mainly of deposits with banks, local money market instruments, short-term investments, accounts receivable and payable.
The totals for each category of financial instruments, measured in accordance with AASB 139 as detailed in the accounting policies in Note 1 to these financial statements, are as follows:
Note Financial Assets Cash 5 640,451 1,060,153 Trade and other receivables 6 701,851 231,346 Total Financial Assets 1,342,302 1,291,499
Financial Liabilities Trade and other payables 10 457,134 299,040 Total Financial Liabilities 457,134 299,040
50 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 5151 5252 Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report 5353 Ski & Snowboard Australia
Level 2, 105 Pearl River Rd
Docklands Victoria 3008
www.skiandsnowboard.org.au
Ski & Snowboard Australia 2013 Annual Report