The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania 2013/14 Annual Report
Our VISION
A world free from MS and its consequences.
Our PURPOSE
We exist to provide people living with MS the care, information, education, treatment Our VALUES options and support needed to minimise the impact of this disease on them, their families • Respect and carers. • Empathy • Integrity Our MISSION • Collaboration To be the preferred provider for MS care, coordination, education, support and information throughout Tasmania.
Our Key Strategic Goals Our Key Strategic Goals
Provision of quality To participate in sector A strong, developing, To support advances in the
services and solutions for development reforms and flexible and sustainable research and management people living with MS and influence policy that organisation. of MS.
other progressive benefits our clients.
neurological conditions
across Tasmania.
Our Vision, Purpose, Mission and Values Our VISION A world free from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and its consequences.
Our PURPOSE We exist to provide people living with MS the care, education, treatment options and support needed to minimise the impact on them, their families and carers.
Our MISSION To be the preferred provider for MS care, coordination, education, support and information throughout Tasmania.
Our VALUES • Respect • Empathy • Integrity • Collaboration
Our Key Strategic Goals Provision of quality services and To participate in sector development solutions for people living with MS reforms and influence policy that and other progressive neurological benefits our clients. conditions across Tasmania.
A strong, developing, flexible and To support advances in the research sustainable organisation. and management of MS.
2 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report Table of Contents Our Vision, Mission and Values...... 2 From the Chairman...... 4 From the CEO...... 5 Our Board of Directors ...... 6 Client Services ...... 9 MS Events ...... 11 MS Community Fundraising & Awareness ...... 13 Corporate Services ...... 15 Research Update ...... 17 Acknowledgements...... 18 Concise Financial Report ...... 20 Directors’ Declaration...... 20 Directors’ Report...... 21 Auditor’s Report...... 23 Auditor’s Independence Declaration...... 24 Statement of Comprehensive Income...... 25 Statement of Financial Position...... 26 Statement of Changes in Equity...... 27 Statement of Cash Flows...... 28 Notes to and forming part of the Financial Statements...... 29
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 3 From the Chairman The financial year The significant issues that have been achieved ended 2014 has been this financial year are: a year of significant • The Tasmanian Government approving the change and challenge Medical Cooling Rebate which means that for the Board and for the cost of electricity is less for MS clients MS Tasmania in general. and Tasmanian’s with wider neurological As a result of the AGM conditions in 2013 and the Board • Participation in the Vitamin D PrevANZ Trial decision to appoint which is being led by the Menzies Research three members, the Institute Tasmania number of Board members increased • Broadening the revenue base by adding new from 8 to 10. events and an additional raffle The opportunity was also taken to review the • A closer working relationship with Multiple roles and responsibilities of the respective Board Steps Forward, the Neuro Muscular Alliance Sub Committees. This has meant that the Board Tasmania and the Menzies Research Institute Sub Committees have an increased number of Tasmania members together with a broader skill set. This • Continuing to achieve high brand recognition has been to the benefit of The Multiple Sclerosis in the community. Society of Tasmania (MS Tasmania). The Board is also proud that we have been As the year unfolded information and able to continue to provide quality services requirements for participation in the National to our clients, make a financial surplus, and Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) became also maintain our Quality Improvement Council more readily available. As a result the Board Accreditation. and staff have been examining what is required to ensure we are prepared for NDIS. MS The Board maintains its active links with our Tasmania has already obtained registration as a national counterparts and while all States face provider from the National Disability Insurance financial and viability challenges, I am pleased Agency (NDIA) for the services we currently to say that the Tasmanian Society remains viable provide to clients. and sustainable into the foreseeable future. The Society was able to obtain specialist I would like to pay tribute to Board members and external advice from the National Disability staff for their continuing efforts, which ensure Services to outline the significant impacts that relevant quality services are provided to our that NDIS will have on the operations of MS clients, and at the same time make significant Tasmania. As an outcome of this briefing, the progress in positioning MS Tasmania for the Board were able to endorse the Strategic Plan new business environment, effective from 1 July for the period to 2020, with a focus on what is 2016. What will not change is the organisation’s required to be undertaken by 30 June 2016. values which places people living with MS at the forefront of our desires to provide high quality The new commercial environment in which responsive services. MS Tasmania will be operating from 1 July 2016 has also necessitated adaptation of the organisation’s Constitution. This updated Constitution will be presented to the Membership at the 55th Annual General Meeting for endorsement. Paul Stevens Chairman
4 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report From the CEO The 2013/14 financial • Encouraging and supporting people to year was a year where contribute to MS Research via such events management and as Kiss Good Bye to MS which included two staff focused on the people riding across Bass Strait on Jet Skis future service delivery • Encouraging and supporting staff to be needs, while continuing involved in a range of research projects to provide quality services to our clients • The development and acceptance by the MS and exploring ways to Tasmania Board of the Strategic Plan up to improve the revenue 2020. base of the organisation. I am pleased to report that apart from one staff member retiring all staff have accepted the challenges presented to them. In doing so it Dale Eastley has placed additional expectations on them. I Chief Executive Officer thank them for their efforts. Along this journey we have achieved some quality outcomes. I will list but a few: • Embracing new technology to assist with the delivery of quality services to clients and organisational integrity, for example the Portal for Quality Accreditation Assessment and electronic drawing of MS Tasmania’s Raffles • Updating the website with a particular focus on providing updates as information becomes available • Encouraging and supporting people to be part of the PrevANZ Vitamin D Trial • Building stronger working relationships with Multiple Steps Forward and the Neuro Muscular Alliance Tasmania (NMAT) • Being actively involved with the National Disability Services in respect to the Provision of quality services and introduction of the NDIS and this has solutions for people living with MS strengthened our relationships with other and other progressive neurological members of the disability sector conditions across Tasmania. • Successfully introducing a new raffle, refreshing the Melbourne Cup function which set a high benchmark for future events and the running of a new event on Australia Day – MS Colour Dash • The Tasmanian Government approving the Medical Cooling Rebate for people with MS and other neurological conditions
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 5 Our Board of Directors Paul Stevens, Chairman Paul has had thirty years in school education, the last fifteen of those in senior administration. In 2003 he transferred to the aged care sector and is currently in senior administration at Freemasons Homes of Southern Tasmania. Paul is also a qualified aged care assessor and regularly visits aged care homes to assess compliance with the Commonwealth’s standards. Paul has been involved in many community organisations and he continues this through his participation with MS Tasmania. He is passionate about finding ways to assist those in the community who have special needs including youth, the aged and those who live with medical conditions of various kinds.
David Nowell, Deputy Chairman David was elected to the Board in December 2007 and was elected as Deputy Chair in October 2013. David is also the Chair of the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee. David brings extensive financial and administrative skills to the Board. Previously David was the Director of Corporate Services at the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority. He has held senior financial positions in both the public and private sectors and holds Directorships in other not for profit organisations. David is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (FAICD) and a Fellow of the Society of CPAs (FCPS). He has Commerce and Masters Degrees in Business Administration (MBA) from Colorado State University and in Commercial Law (MComLaw) from Deakin University.
Margaret Hunyady-Sutherland Margaret was elected to the Board in 2005 and became Chair of the Marketing & Development Committee in 2013. Margaret has 32 years experience in the advertising industry with three years in sports administration. Margaret owns her own business, speakup, providing coaching in public speaking and other related subjects. As well as being Vice President and Board Member of the Clarence Football Club and a Friend of both the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery and Theatre Royal, Margaret is also a Past International President of POWERtalk International, a Fellow of International Training in Communication (ITC) and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Margaret is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the Rotary Club of Sullivans Cove and Women Chiefs of Enterprise.
Sharlene Brown Sharlene joined the Board in 2009 and serves as the Deputy Chair of the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee. Sharlene is a previous Ambassador and Board Member of the Western Australia MS Society. Sharlene is a Governance professional, having worked as Company Secretary, General Counsel and General Manager with a large Tasmanian utility. She brings this knowledge and experience to the Board as well as a passion to advocate and represent those less able.
6 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report Sharlene is an Affiliate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a member of the Governance Institute. Her most important position is ‘Mum’ to her delightful son, and like so many, Sharlene lives day to day with RRMS.
Paul Gray Paul was appointed to the Board in 2009 and serves as a member of the Finance, Audit & Risk Subcommittee. A Police Officer for over 34 years, serving 13 years at the rank of Inspector, Paul spent the last 10 years, prior to his 2009 retirement, managing the Tasmania Police Legislative Reform Program and Crime and Traffic Policy. Having worked in a wide variety of areas within Tasmania Police, his service has been recognised by being awarded the Commissioner’s Medal and Two Clasps, the National Medal and Clasp, and the Australian Police Medal. Paul is an Apex Life Member, a past District Governor, and is a Rotary Foundation Paul Harris Fellow.
Sean O’Moore Elected to the Board in October 2013 we welcome Sean to the Board and to membership of the Marketing & Development Committee. Since moving to Tasmania with his wife, Jill, and their sons in 2006, Sean has been a financial member of MS Tasmania. Increasingly, Sean has actively assisted in the Society’s voluntary fundraising activities including selling raffles and organising volunteer rosters. Sean is actively involved in Multiple Steps Forward (MSF), is on the Glenorchy City Council’s Access Committee, a special committee of Council formed under the Local Government Act to provide advice to Council on matters relating to people with a disability and regularly attends the Eastern Shore Support and MS Tasmania’s Men’s groups. Sean is a founding member and president of Tasmanian Gaelic Football and Hurling Association. Before moving to Tasmania he lived in Sydney and had his own company in electronic security industry for eighteen years. Sean spent twelve years as a volunteer and committee member with the Irish Wheelchair Association in Ireland and was an official escort for several international paraplegic games.
Christine Turnbull Elected to the Board in October 2013, we welcome Christine to the Board and to membership of the Strategic & Quality Improvement Committee. Since moving to Hobart from NSW in 2005, Christine has been working as a Business Consultant, Executive Coach, Facilitator and Trainer across all business sectors in Tasmania as well as interstate . Christine is passionate about contributing to the development of people and runs her own successful business. In 2012 Christine was recognised for her expertise and skill by being selected to participate in a program with a group of her peers at the Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship in Johannesburg, South Africa. Christine was given the opportunity to learn the tools utilised in the curriculum and to work firsthand with the young entrepreneurs that attended the centre, and is implementing this knowledge with her clients in Tasmania.
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 7 Julie Tate Julie was appointed to the Board in October 2013. We welcome Julie to the Board and to membership of the Strategic & Quality Improvement Committee. Julie is a committed health professional with extensive experience gained working in the public hospital system in both Tasmania and Victoria and within the Department of Health & Human Services in Tasmania. Julie’s experience includes 13 years as a diagnostic radiographer, 7 years as manager of an Imaging Department, and 14 years as a senior manager in general hospital management. Julie’s knowledge and experience in health care management was consolidated during 7 years as a member of the Executive Team of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (Peter Mac) in Melbourne. During this time Julie’s interactions with the Peter Mac Board provided valuable learning on the role and responsibilities of Board Directors. Julie was able to consolidate this learning when she was appointed as the Peter Mac nominated Board Director on the Board of the Cooperative Research Centre for Biomedical Imaging Development. Julie is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Radiography and the Australasian College of Health Service Management, and a member of the Australian Institute of Management.
Geoff Collis Geoff was appointed to the Board in October 2013. Geoff and his wife have been long term supporters of MS Tasmania’s raffles. We welcome Geoff to the Board and to membership of the Marketing & Development Committee. Having worked in rural and urban high schools, Geoff has recently retired from the Education Department of Tasmania as Assistant Principal of Rosny College. He is keen sports fan and will be known to sports followers as a hockey commentator on ABC radio and television. Geoff’s previous experience as a member of the Classification of Publications Board and the Board of Hockey South will be broadened by his involvement in the not-for-profit sector.
Desmond (Des) Graham Des was appointed to the Board in October 2013. We welcome Des to the Board and to membership of the Strategic & Quality Improvement Committee. With over twenty years experience in both health and human services, Des has held senior public sector positions in various State’s; was the inaugural Chief Executive Officer for the Mental Health Council of Australia; and has represented Australia at a number of international forums. Des’ qualifications include qualifications in nursing, a Master of Science (Mental Health), and holds an adjunct position with the University of Tasmania. He recently retired as the Deputy Secretary Children, and Executive Director, Policy, Information & Commissioning Groups, with the Department of Health and Human Services. Professionally, one of Des’ most prized achievements was the dedication of a Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Award to the Mental Health Council of Australia for his services to consumer and carer participation in health service planning and individual care, a principle he remains passionate about.
8 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report Client Services The Client Services information resources, such as the “Driving with Team is pleased to MS Brochure” being developed with the support report on our activities of the Department of Infrastructure, Energy for 2013-14. and Resources (DIER) and we are currently embarking on a review of consumer information MS Tasmania provided through a health literacy project. To increase a range of services to awareness and to provide information and people and their carers support to our key stakeholders, a number of in and families affected service training events were conducted across by Multiple Sclerosis, the state to ensure that our MS clients receive, including counselling, where possible, a seamless continuum of care case management, throughout the health, disability and aged care immunotherapy and sectors. clinical support, as well as information and education. Our Clinical Our counselling service has continued to Research Nurse Coordinator also assists with provide face to face, phone, email and group clinical trial and research activities conducted support, which included early intervention and by the Department of Neurology at the Royal support workshops such as the Relationship, Hobart Hospital. Intimacy, Communication and Happiness (RICH) Workshop and presentations on Neuroplasticity Our focus this year was to consolidate our at a number of our support groups around the service model and business processes in state. A new direction in our Men Living with readiness for the changes brought about by the MS group has prompted visits to men living with NDIS. A number of projects and working groups MS in nursing homes to provide continuing peer have commenced to prepare the organisation support to those clients unable to attend the for the full roll-out of the scheme. Projects regular group meetings. included areas such as process reviews, data management, formalising strategic relationships MS Tasmania’s Case Managers have been and partnerships and contributing to the reviewing their work against the National Case strategic plan for 2013 - 2020. Management Standards. Work is underway to formally accredit a number of staff through this To ensure quality service delivery and external accreditation process. compliance in our pursuit of clinical excellence and being a provider of choice, we have MS Tasmania continues to provide in kind continued to work within a continuous quality support to the Department of Neurology through improvement framework with our external Specialist MS nursing support at the MS Clinic accreditors, Quality Innovation Performance at the Repat Centre in Hobart. Clinic statistics (QIP) on our quality journey. Result of audits have demonstrated a steady increase in patients and reviews are positive and we continue to attending the multidisciplinary neurologist-lead embark on improvement actions. Client Service clinic. Since May there have been additional staff have embraced this strive for excellence clinics scheduled for individual Neurologists and have attended a number of learning and to meet the increased demand and patient development opportunities through the year to numbers. ensure that we are abreast of current research Patients have been happy to consent to and best practice models in our ongoing participate with the MSBase Registry. This specialist service delivery to people living with is a longitudinal observation MS data base MS. enabling researchers to access large data We have partnered with our consumer group, sets for analysis from around the world, Multiple Steps Forward, in providing targeted tracking outcomes in clinical practice. The
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 9 database is a precursor to the MSFirst Registry bowel dysfunction in cohorts of MS patients which is a safety tracking registry for patients across Australia and New Zealand, is Phase II receiving Fingolimod for Relapsing Remitting of a larger study. The pilot study identified a MS (RRMS), compared to patients on other larger than previously reported number of MS forms of therapies. A large number of clients patients at the Eastern Health MS Service in from the North and North West of the state Melbourne with bladder and bowel dysfunction. are travelling to this clinic because of its A significant number of these patients had never successful model and outcomes. There are discussed their bladder and bowel symptoms also a significant number of clients travelling to with a health professional. mainland neurologists due to extended waiting The Client Service Team is looking forward to lists to see specialists in the North and North partner with our support groups and clients West of the state. Our northern nurses work with throughout the coming year to engage them neurologists and their staff interstate. Our MS in a survey and a series of conversation nurses work collaboratively with MS clinics on forums that will inform our future planning for the mainland i.e. providing support for interstate service delivery and how best to serve our MS clients wishing to visit Tasmania, and also community in Tasmania. assisting to access infusions during their time in the State. Sue McGregor, MS Tasmania’s Clinical Trials Study Coordinator, completed her MS Nurses certification by the MS Nurses International Certification Board, awarded as part of the Bea Beswick International Organisation of MS Nurses. At Clinical Consultant the recent MS Nurses national conference in Melbourne, Sue presented a poster on existing issues with iodine deficiency in Tasmania, and the relevance this will have with the introduction of Lemtrada (Alemtuzumab), a medication on the market for people with RRMS. Sue’s poster won the People’s Choice award – selected over 12 other posters. Sue also received a nomination for the MSNA’s Outstanding Contribution to MS Nursing 2014. The award is open to nurses across Australia and New Zealand. Michael Mortensen, Registered Nurse / Case Manager partnered with a number of other nurses from MS Clinics in Westmead (Sydney), To participate in sector development John Hunter (Newcastle) and Liverpool Hospital reforms and influence policy that to complete a pilot study on ‘Understanding benefits our clients. patient comprehension in natalizumab administration/ discontinuation and JC virus serology’, which was published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal 2014; 20; (S1) 285-496. Nurses are also participating in ‘Prevalence – The study of the prevalence and nature of bladder and bowel dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis’. This study, aimed at identifying the nature and prevalence of bladder and
10 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report MS Events Our MS Event’s team has continued to organise fun, well supported events which focus on the enhancement of the MS Tasmania brand, promoting awareness, raising funds and building reputation throughout their support networks. Each major event for the 2013/14 financial year has undergone brand development, building a theme and aligning the promotional tee shirt for each event so that it is an item of value, worn outside of event time, and spiking with trend we have introduced ladies racer back style tee shirts. MS Swimathon – Hobart (3rd and 4th August 2013) Held at the Hobart Aquatic Centre,104 swimmers participated in support of Tasmanians’ living with MS. The Aquatic Centre buzzed with excitement as five new teams joined our ‘regular support’ teams. Participants swam a total of 270.2kms, with the Tomatoes Swim Team completing 93.5km to take out the ‘Furthest Distance Swum’ award. The effort and contribution surrounding MS Swimathon Hobart is very much appreciated. The ‘Swim for Letty’ and ‘Wiggins Water Warriors’ teams deserve special mention. Whilst every registered participant contributes significant physical energy and time in this event, these two teams had eight and ten swimmers respectively who swam the entire time. Teams generally can have up to 20 participants to share the workload...or in this case, laps!
MS Mud Dash – Fulton Park (12 October 2013) Over 600 people participated in the ‘Sea FM MS Mud Dash’ at Fulton Park. Given that we were expecting 250 people, this was a great surprise! Again, we would like to thank the Penguin LEO club who spent the best part of three days constructing and designing the track; the Forth Fire Brigade and Lions members who volunteered their services; St John Ambulance who provided many laughs, and medical assistance when required; Scouts who kept the BBQ fired up; Hot Shots Coffee for their hot drinks and cookies; and Sea FM & TDT for their support promoting this event. Most especially our thanks go to Multiple Solutions ladies, Tanya and Michelle, who did an outstanding job with our registrations, particularly the additional 350 that arrived on the day to participate! MS Mud Dash – Kellevie (17 August, 2013) New to southern Tasmanian this event that attracted over 200 people. Mick and Jayne from 7HOFM radio participated in the challenge on the day, as well as running a pre-event promotional stint featuring Lauren Haskell during their breakfast show. This provided much entertainment and momentum for this event, ensuring a presence for the southern Mud Dash event to be held in future years.
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 11 MS Melbourne Cup – Mona (5 November 2013) MS Melbourne Cup for 2013 focused on three key words in every aspect of planning; experience, exclusive and exquisite. This event captured this perfectly. Feedback provided from our guests was that the event was highly successful, enjoyable and a true experience. Ben Milbourne from MasterChef was the MC. Ben kept guests entertained, ensuring that everyone had a wonderful time. Sally Murfet, recently qualified in Auctioneering, undertook her first live auction providing that vibrant experience that a live auction should be, enlightening the guests to humour, emotion and success of purchase! Capturing the art component in a different light, MS Event Manager, Kate, was volunteered to be an exhibit of “project hair: from mess to magic” with hair designed by Nyki Dourias, owner of Bella Vogue who was challenged to complete a 50s style elegant “up-do” within 30 minutes, live, in front of guests on the day. The focus for 2013 was quality not quantity. Capturing the exclusive theming, it was decided to offer less auction items and recruit three local businesses to host pop up shops during the event. We welcomed Tennille from Avadon candles, Jenny Mills Jewellery; and Louise Walsh Jewellery. Guests thoroughly enjoyed the exquisite products on offer, and the ability to purchase in this exclusive opportunity, only at MS Melbourne Cup. Our live artist, Graham Haskell, was simply magnificent! He completed a 5 foot abstract art in just 2 hours. This piece was then auctioned off and Graham very generously donated the proceeds to MS Tasmania. A fabulous addition by Ben was offering us a live auction for an exclusive dinner for 10 cooked by him, this became the centre point of the live auctions. MS Colour Dash – Australia Day 2014 – Hobart Showgrounds An exciting new event to the MS events calendar, MS Colour Dash event introduced colour in a big way to participants. Set out on a course within the Hobart Showgrounds, with four colour stations throughout, people started off clean, wearing as much white as possible and by the time they reached the end of the track they were coloured in the dyed corn starch powder! Choosing to run or walk this event was for everyone of all ages, even those in prams! Upon completing the course, in celebration of Australia Day, participants gathered in the middle of the oval and did a mass throw of mini satchels of powder in green and yellow. This event was well supported with over 400 participants, and great media coverage lead into and after the event. After the success of this event, we were approached by Bagdad Primary School Principal, Collette Harrold to run a mini inter-school challenge Colour Dash. Their school invited other rural schools in the local area, and set out the course on the last day of term one. Not only did this promote awareness and education of MS to the children participating, but again received wonderful media coverage, and a fantastic way to complete term one! Our events would not be possible without our participants. Thank you to all event participants, fundraisers and supporters; our small team of volunteers; our media partners, Lauren Haskell, Naomi Searle and MS staff for your support.
Kate Coad Events Manager
12 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report MS Community Fundraising & Awareness These are the events created by individuals in Multiple Steps Forward – High Tea support of Tasmanians’ living with MS, usually Driven by the by a family member, friend or someone in the Multiple Steps wider community in support of someone they Forward group know personally. Because they are community as part of MS based and driven, they are greatly appreciated Awareness week, and provide the MS Society with an opportunity a very successful to reach a broader cross section of the High Tea was community. held at Wrest Point. 60 people Many people in the MS community have a attended and they strong personal link with our Vision and Purpose, were entertained, fundraising in support of the ‘Kiss Goodbye to wined and dined. MS’ campaign and promoting awareness of MS Sharon Wilkinson within Tasmania. spoke about what it means to have Activities have included: MS; Sean O’Moore • Burger-Haus donating through fairy floss sales told his personal journey as well as acting as a from their first week in business redoubtable MC and Cameron Suhr introduced • Mobsters and Slappers evening at The Duke us to what it means to be a partner of someone of Wellington Hotel who has MS. All this information was told with humour and with a background of music from an • Night of Fun N Fashion instrumental folk group. This event came about • Mullet Shave, head shaves and hair dyes by the Multiple Steps Forward Group together • Sausage sizzles and raffles with Lauren never giving up on their dream for • Warhhammer Tournament having a wonderful High Tea. A big thank you. • Casual clothes and morning tea contributions Quilts in the Garden • Enjo donations from sales of tea towels. Hawthorn Villa Estate Quilts in the Gardens, Carrick In addition, our friends at Tasplan also donate baskets and items in support of some events, Displayed within the stunning gardens of historic and Tadpac print often donate printing costs for 1870s Hawthorn Villa Estate, Carrick, the Quilts which we are grateful. in the Garden exhibit was held in November 2013 for the second time. The exquisite quilts of the Devon Patchworkers & Quilters group were There are many unsung MS supporters and we on display, in the atmosphere of nature’s best. would like to acknowledge the support of every- one in our community, many who do not always Devon Patchworkers & Quilters started this get the recognition they deserve. On behalf of initiative in support of one of their members who the Society staff and Tasmanian’s living with MS, lives with MS, approaching Nicole and Innes thank you. Pearce who own the beautiful Hawthorn Villa
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 13 Estate in Carrick. We very much appreciate the Amanda Ashley-Jones and Vivienne Jones being support of Nicole and Innes Pearce and the presented with the Agfest Best Trade Exhibitor 2014 award. Devon Patchworkers & Quilters Group for their Agfest fund raising and for promoting awareness of MS Tasmania staff decided that they would Multiple Sclerosis within Tasmania. Quilts in the apply for a site within the Trade Expo feature in Garden is being held for the third year on 8 & the 2014 Agfest Field Days after the success of 9 November 2014, and Nicole is expecting to the site in 2013. Thankfully we were accepted. attract many patrons to enjoy the relaxing stroll Wanting to build off the initial years display, the taking in the beautiful surroundings. exhibit was put together by Amanda Ashley- Kiss Goodbye to MS Jones who is the driver behind this MS team initiative. MS Tasmania was represented by MS Tasmania actively supports this important Mandy, Kim, Kirsty and other MS staff and fundraising initiative volunteers for the three days. This resulted in for MS Research. being awarded the Best Trades Expo Exhibit There were a for 2014. Receiving a prestigious trophy and significant number listed in the media as the title recipient, the of events conducted other benefit being automatically accepted for KISS throughout our the 2015 event which provides an additional six GOODBYE state. Of particular months to plan our site! Congratulations team. TO highlight the Bass MS Straight Jet Ski Previous team member Lauren Haskell was Challenge led by instrumental in coordinating the Community Dale Quin of team ‘Carpe Diem’ who rode jet Fundraising and MS Awareness functions and skis across Bass Strait. we thank Lauren. The reins have been handed to Angela Land, so if you have an idea or want some support with a Community Fundraiser, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Sue Anderson
Our Vision A world free from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and its consequences Our Purpose We exist to provide people living with MS the care, education, treatment options and support needed to minimise the impact on them, their families and carers
14 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report Corporate Services trial sites. In June we were MS Tasmania’s raffle fortunate to have Deb Farrell, campaigns are part of Senior Manager, NDIS Futures the organisations ‘mature’ from MS Limited join our whole fundraising program and whilst of service team meeting and the processes are tried and share her experiences about tested and the database well how the NDIS has worked, in a established, we are mindful of practical sense, for their clients striving to do things ‘differently’ living with MS. in order to reinvigorate our campaigns and bring a sense The 2013 – 2020 strategic of energy and ‘freshness’ to plan, endorsed by the Board our raffle programs. This year in April 2014, indicates MS we introduced ‘electronic Tasmania’s intent to continue ticket’ draws, doing away with our transition into this new with our traditional raffle environment in a planned and books. This change proved sustainable way. There will be to be a challenge for both staff many projects that will need Operationally this year, the and some donors alike, but to be operationalised from this focus has been on gaining there has been acceptance plan over the next few years knowledge and increasing the that this is a necessary step to ensure we are NDIS ready organisations preparedness forward and in line with a come July 2016. to enter the new business more contemporary approach. environment that will emanate Financially, the 2013/14 year Acknowledgement should from the full roll out of the has yielded a net surplus from be made of our ‘in-house’ National Disability Insurance ordinary activities of $45,978. telemarketing team, banking Scheme (NDIS) from 2016. This compares to the 2012/13 and administrative staff in The NDIS began to be year’s surplus of $161,259. achieving this financial result introduced in stages from July The variance can be explained in what can be described as a 2013. In Tasmania the trial site in 2 main income streams; very competitive market for the was for young people aged that of raffle campaign gross charity dollar. income and untied income 15-24 years. In South Australia Our service delivery staff and received from pharmaceutical it was for children aged 0-14 the clients they work with and funding. These 2 areas and in the Barwon area of support provide the motivation returned gross income which Victoria and the Hunter area in and purpose for our fundraising was less than $100,000 each NSW it was for people aged up efforts and as always our from the previous year. to 65. MS Tasmania does not gratitude and thanks must currently have any participants The decrease in net income ultimately go to our loyal and in the scheme within the from raffle campaigns was regular raffle ticket purchasers Tasmanian age cohort so mitigated somewhat to a for their continued support of much of our learning has been reduction of $50K over the MS Tasmania and its clients derived from participation in previous year. This occurred through this channel. Further Sector forums conducted by by savings made in operating innovation through analysis National Disability Services costs including expenditure of this area will be key into (NDS); reading collateral and on prizes and wages. A net breathing life back into this also from our colleagues at contribution of approximately income stream combined with MS Limited who have clients $200,000 is made through MS direct mail appeals and regular in the Barwon and Hunter Tasmania’s raffle campaigns. giving campaigns.
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 15 Expenditure across all areas of MS Tasmania our Senior Case Manager, back from 12 months was well contained at $1,707M being below maternity leave. In February 2014 we farewelled budget by approximately $70K and $10K below our long term counsellor, Sharon Wilkinson after the previous years actual. 9 years of service with MS Tasmania. Sharon left us to spend more time with her family, particularly her new granddaughter Lottie. Lauren Haskell our Corporate Receptionist/Event Expenditure Assistant left us in May 2014 and we welcomed 300000 Angela Land as her replacement in July this 250000 year. 200000 I would like to take this opportunity to thank all 150000 staff, our supporters, donors and those we seek 100000 to support, our clients, for their contribution and 50000 input to MS Tasmania throughout the past year. 0 We must remain true to our mission as we 2007 2005 2009 2011 2013 navigate our way through change, moving During the past financial year MS Tasmania forward to the new operating environment, farewelled and welcomed a number of staff. In always being mindful of our Vision of “a world October 2013 Bea Beswick joined the team at free of MS and its consequences”. MS Tasmania in the role of Clinical Consultant, Vivienne (Viv) Jones leading our Client Services team. Bea joined Deputy Chief Executive Officer us replacing our previous Client Services Manager, Mary Langdon who left in June 2013. In October we also welcomed Lynsey Smith, A strong, developing, flexible and sustainable organisation.
Net operating Results 50000 2005-2013
0 2012 2006 2007 2009 2005 2008 2010 2011 2013 -50000
-100000
300000 Income Sources 2005-2012 250000
200000 Bequests 150000 Rent/Interest/ Other 100000 Pharmaceuetical funding 50000 Gvt. Funding 0 2013 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
16 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report Research Update impact of MS on employment, modifications, such as diet and its psycho-social impacts exercise, may slow the rate of and on whether people living disability progression in MS with MS are able to access because these changes will information on the disease. help to reduce the levels of Menzies Health Economist ‘bad’ fats that are circulating in Professor Andrew Palmer used the body. the study for analysis that In the current project, PhD found the economic cost of student Ms Prudence Tettey, MS to Australia is around $1 working with Dr van der Mei, billion per year. The reduction has examined the fat profiles in quality of life associated with Dr Ingrid van der Mei of 141 people with relapsing MS is similar to other serious remitting MS, in blood conditions, such as stroke and Australian MS Longitudinal samples that were collected end stage cancer. Study (AMSLS) – Update every six months over a two The Menzies Research Institute Dr van der Mei and and a half year period. This Tasmania (an institute of the collaborators are working work is part of the National University of Tasmania) will take on plans that will take the Health and Medical Research over the running of Australia’s study in new directions. For Council-funded Tasmanian largest study into Multiple example, she hopes to link MS Longitudinal Study’s data Sclerosis (MS) in partnership the study data with other data collected from 2002 and 2005. with MS Research Australia. A such as clinical and service 200 people in Southern Tas launch event was held at the data to learn more about the participated in these surveys. Menzies on Tuesday 26 August progression and service use This study is a highly valuable with state MS Society and MSA of people with MS. “Apart from long-term data resource CEOs in attendance. my own interests, I will work with detailed information on The Australian MS Longitudinal closely with other stakeholders relapses, disability, MRI scans, Study (AMSLS) has been that can benefit from this lifestyle, immune function, running for 13 years and has resource as well as other virology and genetics. Australian researchers.” around 3000 active participants They found that the amounts of who are living with MS. Data Any Australian resident a number of different fats in the from the study provides diagnosed with MS after blood, including the high and researchers, advocacy groups June 2002 is eligible to low density lipoproteins (HDL and government agencies with join the Study. If you are and LDL), and triglycerides, practical information on how a person with MS and are were closely associated with MS is impacting on people’s interested in participating in disability level as measured by lives. the AMSLS please contact the Expanded Disability Status Tasmania has Australia’s Dr Ingrid van der Mei for Score (EDSS). This association highest per capita incidence of further information: ingrid. remained strong even when MS. The research at Menzies [email protected] or other potentially confounding is making an important 03 6226 7710. factors such as smoking, contribution to understanding exercise, age and sex were the disease and its impacts, Fat levels in blood taken into account. and managing the AMSLS influence disability progression in MS will assist in translating To support advances in the research that research into positive New Australian research shows and management of MS. practical outcomes for people that adverse levels of ‘bad’ with MS.” The Menzies fats in the blood are closely team that will manage the linked to the level of disability study is spearheaded by in people with MS and the rate Senior Research Fellow and of disability progression. epidemiologist Dr Ingrid van This important finding der Mei. In the past the AMSLS suggests that simple lifestyle has provided data on the
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 17 Acknowledgements Patron Bequests (1969) The Governor of Tasmania The MS Society of Tasmania Mr Noel Kirby (1983) truly appreciates the generosity Ambassador Miss Freda Mary McClea of people who nominate our (1992) Mrs Larissa Bartlett organisation as a beneficiary to Mr Robert Fay (1992) Honorary Neurologists their Estate. Miss Jean Russell (1992) Prof. Bruce Taylor FRACP By leaving a bequest, you Dr Michael Dryer are helping us to continue to Recognition of Service Dr Helen Castley provide much needed support Mr Graeme Badcock, 2000 for Tasmanians living with MS Mrs Doris Leonard, 2000 Advocates every day, while our search for Mrs Elizabeth Robb OAM, 2000 Andrew Potter a cure continues. Mrs Marion Roberts, 2000 Jenny Wallis The research activities and support services provided by Mrs Fay Turner, 2000 Community The MS Society of Tasmania Mr John Tyquin (dec.), 2000 Fundraisers have been greatly assisted Southern Cross Television, Cameron Brown and strengthened through this 2000 Deb Lade wonderful bequest funding. Interhash 2000, 2000 Nicole and Innes Pearce of Multiple Steps Forward Teddy Bear Club, 2000 Hawthorne Villa Stables (MSF) The Advocate, 2000 Marcelle Wright Rhoda Gill (Spokesperson) The Examiner, 2000 F Gillon Sean O’Moore The Mercury, 2000 Jay Reedy-Mead Dr Carolyn Ryan WIN Television, 2000 Phoebe McKenzie Lynda Hanlon Schering Ltd, 2001 Rebecca Thorpe Shirley Anderson Merck Serono, 2001 Aurora Energy Angela Suhr Miss Nikki Mathers, 2001 Bunnings North Launceston Media Partners Mrs Sue Armes, 2001 Bunnings Burnie 7HOFM Mrs Olive Parker, 2001 Department of Education TDT 10 Mrs Maureen Poke, 2001 Devon Patchwork & Quilters ABC Miss Jean Russell (dec.), 2001 J Boag & Son Southern Cross Aussterio Mr Joeseph Ratcliffe, 2004 McLennans Butchery Firefly Media Dr Bruce Taylor, 2004 The Salvation Army The Mercury Newspaper Mr Jack Wivell, 2005 Certificates of SeaFM Devonport Mr Alan Davis (dec.), 2006 Appreciation Boag’s Engagement Action Our Volunteers Ms Marlene Pegus, 2007 Committee Mrs Connie Holmes Ms Helen Connor-Kendray, Elizabeth Town Bakery & Cafe Ms Casey Jones 2008 Miss Naomi Searle Dr Stan Siejka (dec), 2009 Mrs Robyn Eastley Mrs Jane Hope, 2009 Life Members Mr Harry Wilsdon, 2010 The Hon Brian Miller AM JP
18 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report Thanks Launceston Aquatic Centre Office Bayer Australia Ltd Launceston City Council Neuro Muscular Alliance of Bellerive Yacht Club Lindsay White Tasmania Ben Milbourne LEO’s Club of Penguin Nyki Dourias Bernard Woolley Lions Club of Hobart Town Nova Print & Design Devonport bioCSL Lions Club of Kingborough Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia Biogen Idec Lions Club of Sandy Bay Page Seager Lawyers Cargo Bar Pizza Lounge Louise Walsh Jewellery RACT Travelworld Catharine Errey Lush Fresh Handmade Rebecca Newton (Red Cross) City Park Grand Conference Cosmetics Centre Maggi Koerbin Renata Botique Circular Head Rural Health Magnolia 73 Robin Banks Services Manpower Royal Hobart Hospital Department of Neurology Collette Harrold –Bagdad Menzies Research Institute Royal Hobart Showgrounds Primary School Merck Serono Australia Pty Ltd Roz Smart Community Rehabilitation Unit Minister Cassy O’Connor Connie Alomes (Lifeline) Sally Murfet Department of Health & Human The MS Society of Scouts Tasmania Services Tasmania would like Stephen Jolly Di’s Catering Service to extend our heartfelt St John’s Ambulence Dr Ingrid van der Mei thanks to all those who TAS Fire Service made donations through Dr Julie Sladden Tadpac Print Red Diamond Regular Dr Rex Simmons Tasmanian Gourmet Gifts Giving, Community Endota Spa Fundraising and Tasmania Medicare Local Ltd Flora Gondwana Florist Workplace Giving. Tasmanian Symphony Forth Fire Brigade Orchestra Fullers Bookshop Miss Julia Farrell Tenille from Avadon Candles Genzyme a Sanofi Company MONA The Branch Christian Church Glenorchy Civic Centre Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania The Masonic Club of Launceston Glenorchy Community Health Mr & Mrs Blissenden Centre The Old Woolstore Mr & Mrs Hume Graham Haskell The Tailrace Centre Mr & Mrs Prenter Hobart Aquatic Centre Trudi Jones, Jonasports & Mr Peter Thompson Hobart City Council Promotion Mr Ray Winstanley Halys & Sells Ulverstone Surf Lifesaving Club Ms Georgina Hill Independent Living Centre Wayne Lehman Photography Mrs Judith McDougall Iris Computing Wrest Point Casino Mrs Jill Tilbury Ish Catering Mrs Christine Turnbull Jenny Mills Jewellery Multiple Solutions Kate Goodman, Goodman Myer Community Fund Conveyancing National Disability Coordination
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 19 CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 Your directors present this report on the Society for the year ended 30 June 2014. THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF TASMANIA DIRECTORS (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) ACN 009 484 093 The names of each person who has been a director during the year and to the date of this report are:
Directors’ Declaration...... 20 In office from 1 July 2013 (Appointed 17 October 2013) (Retired 17 October 2013)
Directors’ Report...... 21 Paul Stevens Sean O’Moore Geoff Chapman
Auditor’s Report...... 23 Paul Gray Christine Turnbull (nee Storm) Maggie Hunter Auditor’s Independence Declaration...... 24 Sharlene Brown Geoffrey Collis David Hopkins Statement of Comprehensive Income...... 25 Margaret Hunyady-Sutherland Julie Anne Tate Statement of Financial Position...... 26 David Nowell Desmond Graham
Statement of Changes in Equity...... 27 Directors have been in office since the start of the financial year to the date of this report unless otherwise Statement of Cash Flows...... 28 stated. Notes to and forming part of the Financial Statements...... 29 COMPANY SECRETARY The following person held the position of the Society’s secretary at the end of the financial year: Relationship of the concise financial report to the full financial report Lindsay Dale Eastley The concise financial report is an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2014. The PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES financial statements, specific disclosures and other information included in the concise financial report are The principal activities of the Society during the financial year were to ensure the preservation, maintenance derived from, and consistent with, the corresponding full financial report of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of and improvement of the independence and self-determination of people with multiple sclerosis and people with Tasmania. physical disabilities by providing appropriate support services for them, their families and care givers. The concise financial report cannot be expected to provide as detailed an understanding of the financial No significant changes in the nature of the Society’s activities occurred during the financial year. performance, financial position and financing and investing activities of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania as the full financial report. SHORT TERM AND LON G TERM OBJECTIVES The company’s short–term objectives are to: Copies of the full financial report and auditor’s report, containing more information can be obtained, free of charge, on request to: • Provide high quality support and education services to people living with MS in Tasmania together with
families and friends Chief Executive Officer, 15 Princes Street, Sandy Bay, Tasmania 7005 Telephone: (03) 6220 1111 • Be advocates for people living with MS • Increase public awareness that people living with MS can live fulfilling lives and contribute to society. DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 • Contribute to ongoing research with a view that a cure can be found or that by appropriate medications slow the progression of MS In accordance with a resolution the Directors of the Society declare that: • Position the organis ation to embrace the opportunities flowing from the National Disability Insurance The concise annual financial report of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania for the year ended 30 June Scheme. 2014, as set out in the Statement of Comprehensive Income, Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Changes in Equity, Statement of Cash Flow and Notes to and forming part of the Financial Statements complies T he company’s long-term objectives are to: with Accounting Standard AASB 1039: Concise Financial Reports. • Strengthen the organisation’s Balance Sheet The financial statements and specific disclosures included in this concise financial report have been derived • Maximise the proportion of funding that goes directly to support people in Tasmania living with MS from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2014. • Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders. The concise financial report cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financing and investing activities of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of
Tasmania as the full financial report, which is available on request.
This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.
On behalf of the Directors
Paul Stevens Chairman of D irectors Dated this 18th day of September 2014
20 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report DIRECTORS’ REPORT Your directors present this report on the Society for the year ended 30 June 2014.
DIRECTORS The names of each person who has been a director during the year and to the date of this report are:
In office from 1 July 2013 (Appointed 17 October 2013) (Retired 17 October 2013)
Paul Stevens Sean O’Moore Geoff Chapman Paul Gray Christine Turnbull (nee Storm) Maggie Hunter Sharlene Brown Geoffrey Collis David Hopkins Margaret Hunyady-Sutherland Julie Anne Tate David Nowell Desmond Graham
Directors have been in office since the start of the financial year to the date of this report unless otherwise stated.
COMPANY SECRETARY The following person held the position of the Society’s secretary at the end of the financial year: Lindsay Dale Eastley
PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES The principal activities of the Society during the financial year were to ensure the preservation, maintenance and improvement of the independence and self-determination of people with multiple sclerosis and people with physical disabilities by providing appropriate support services for them, their families and care givers. No significant changes in the nature of the Society’s activities occurred during the financial year.
SHORT TERM AND LON G TERM OBJECTIVES The company’s short–term objectives are to:
• Provide high quality support and education services to people living with MS in Tasmania together with
families and friends • Be advocates for people living with MS • Increase public awareness that people living with MS can live fulfilling lives and contribute to society.
• Contribute to ongoing research with a view that a cure can be found or that by appropriate medications slow the progression of MS
• Position the organis ation to embrace the opportunities flowing from the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
T he company’s long-term objectives are to:
• Strengthen the organisation’s Balance Sheet
• Maximise the proportion of funding that goes directly to support people in Tasmania living with MS
• Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders.
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 21 STRATEGIES ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES To achieve its stated objectives, the company has adopted the following strategies: The Society’s operations are not regulated by any significant environmental regulation under a law of the Commonwealth or of a State or Territory. • Maintain Quality Improvement Council Accreditation • Strengthening the Advocates program PROCEEDINGS ON BEHALF OF THE SOCIETY No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on behalf of the Society or intervene in any • To provide participative events where people with MS can demonstrate that they are having fulfilling lives proceedings to which the Society is a party for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Society for all • Providing funds for ongoing research and also encouraging clients to participate in research being or any part of those legal proceedings. undertaken at the Menzies Research Institute Tasmania and the Royal Hobart Hospital The Society was not a party to any proceedings during the year. • Broadening the base of funding opportunities and also examining new ways of achieving improved operational financial outcomes INDEMNIFYING OFFICERS OR AUDITOR • Regular monitoring of the organisation’s risk profile and when necessary taking appropriate action During the financial year, the Society paid insurance premiums to insure the Directors and Officers past and present to the extent available by law. The terms of the insurance contract preclude disclosure of further details. • Improved Management Information Systems to support requirements of National Disability Insurance Scheme. No indemnities have been given or insurance premiums paid during or since the end of the financial year, for any person who is or has been an auditor of the Society. KEY PERFORMANCE MEASURES • MS Tasmania reviews its performance, on a quarterly basis, against the approved yearly Business Plan DIVIDENDS The Society's memorandum specifically prohibits the payments of a dividend or a bonus by way of profit to • A new Strategic Plan has been developed which focuses on what the organisation wants to be by 30 members of the Society. June 2016. MEMBERS’ GUARANTEE MEETINGS OF DIRECTORS The company is limited by guarantee. If the company is wound up the Constitution states that each member is During the financial year 8 meetings of Directors were held. Attendances by each Director were as follows: required to contribute a maximum of $100 each towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the company. At 30 June 2014 the number of members was 34. Board Meetings Board Meetings
Number Number Number Number AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION Eligible Attended Eligible Attended The auditor’s independence declaration for the year ended 30 June 2014 has been received and can be found Paul Stevens 8 8 Geoff Chapman 3 3 on page 23 of the financial report. David Nowell 8 8 Maggie Hunter 3 2 Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors. Margaret Hunyady-Sutherland 8 5 David Hopkins 3 2 Sharlene Brown 8 4
Paul Gray 8 7 Paul Stevens Sean O’Moore 4 4 Chairman of Directors Christine Storm 4 3 Dated this 18th day of September 2014 Desmond Graham 4 3 Julie Anne Tate 4 2 AUDITORS REPORT Geoffrey Collis 4 3 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF TASMANIA FINANCIAL RESULTS We have audited the accompanying concise financial report of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania, The Society's comprehensive income for the year ended 30 June 2014 was a Surplus of $83,422 (2013 Surplus which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2014 and the income statement, statement of recognised $122,922). income and expenditure and cash flow statement for the year ended on that date, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes and the directors’ declaration. REVIEW OF OPERATIONS The Society's total income for the year was $1,753,326 (2013 $1,866,650). The Responsibility of the Directors for the Financial Report The Directors of the Society are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in AFTER BALANCE DATE EVENTS accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affected or may Corporations Act 2001. This responsibility includes designing, implementing, and maintaining internal control significantly affect the operations of the Society, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, Society in future financial years. whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances. FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS The Society expects to maintain the present status and level of operations and so there are no likely Auditor’s Responsibility developments in the Society’s operations. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant
22 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES The Society’s operations are not regulated by any significant environmental regulation under a law of the Commonwealth or of a State or Territory.
PROCEEDINGS ON BEHALF OF THE SOCIETY No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on behalf of the Society or intervene in any proceedings to which the Society is a party for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Society for all or any part of those legal proceedings. The Society was not a party to any proceedings during the year.
INDEMNIFYING OFFICERS OR AUDITOR During the financial year, the Society paid insurance premiums to insure the Directors and Officers past and present to the extent available by law. The terms of the insurance contract preclude disclosure of further details. No indemnities have been given or insurance premiums paid during or since the end of the financial year, for any person who is or has been an auditor of the Society.
DIVIDENDS The Society's memorandum specifically prohibits the payments of a dividend or a bonus by way of profit to members of the Society.
MEMBERS’ GUARANTEE The company is limited by guarantee. If the company is wound up the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $100 each towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the company. At 30 June 2014 the number of members was 34.
AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION The auditor’s independence declaration for the year ended 30 June 2014 has been received and can be found on page 23 of the financial report. Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.
Paul Stevens Chairman of Directors Dated this 18th day of September 2014
AUDITORS REPORT INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF TASMANIA We have audited the accompanying concise financial report of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania, which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2014 and the income statement, statement of recognised income and expenditure and cash flow statement for the year ended on that date, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes and the directors’ declaration.
The Responsibility of the Directors for the Financial Report The Directors of the Society are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Act 2001. This responsibility includes designing, implementing, and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.
Auditor’s Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 23 ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the Society’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Society’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Independence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Corporations Act 2001, which has been given to the directors of Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania would be in the same terms if provided to the directors as at the date of this auditor’s report.
Auditor’s Opinion In our opinion, the concise financial report of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 including: (i) giving a true and fair view of the society’s financial position as at 30 June 2014 and its performance for the year ended on that date; and (ii) complying with Australian accounting standards and the corporations regulations 2001. HALYS & SELLS
A. I. HOVE FCA Registered Company Auditor (No. 15382) Halys & Sells 29 Salamanca Place Hobart TAS 7000 Dated this 22nd day of September 2014
Auditors Independence Declaration UNDER SECTION 307C OF THE CORPORATIONS ACT 2001 TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF TASMANIA I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, during the year ended 30 June 2014 there have been i) no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and ii) no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit. HALYS & SELLS
A. I. HOVE FCA Registered Company Auditor (No. 15382) Halys & Sells 29 Salamanca Place Hobart TAS 7000 Dated this 22nd day of September 2014
24 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014
Notes 2014 2013
$ $
Revenues from ordinary activities 2 1,753,326 1,866,650 Fundraising prizes (81,223) (95,835) Employee expenses (1,085,156) (1,095,113) Postage, printing & stationery (71,418) (71,955) Telephone expenses (42,092) (41,147) Depreciation and amortisation expenses (66,148) (62,849)
Other expenses from ordinary activities (361,311) (338,492)
Surplus from ordinary activities before Income tax expense 45,978 161,259
Income tax expense relating to ordinary activities 0 0 Net Surplus (Deficit) from ordinary activities after Income tax expense 45,978 161,259
Other comprehensive income:
Net loss on revaluation of property, plant and equipment (20,000) 0 Net fair value (loss)/gain on re-measurement of investments in
listed shares available for sale 57,444 (38,337)
Other comprehensive income for the year 37,444 (38,337)
Total comprehensive income for the year 83,422 122,922
Total comprehensive income attributable to members of the
society 83,422 122,922
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 25 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30 JUNE 2014
2014 2013 $ $ ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents 171,701 53,183 Trade and Other Receivables 45,985 122,142 Financial Assets 237,642 206,425 Other Assets 37,092 30,857 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 492,420 412,606
NON CURRENT ASSETS Financial Assets 753,789 692,618 Property, Plant and Equipment 1,932,202 1,987,361 TOTAL NON CURRENT ASSETS 2,685,991 2,679,979
TOTAL ASSETS 3,178,411 3,092,585
LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITES Trade and Other Payables 70,761 61,013 Short-term Provisions 163,915 163,518 Other Liabilities 14,823 16,979 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 249,499 241,509
NON CURRENT LIABILITIES Long-term Provisions 18,327 23,912 TOTAL NON CURRENT LIABILITIES 18,327 23,912
TOTAL LIABILITIES 267,826 265,421
NET ASSETS 2,910,586 2,827,164
EQUITY Accumulated Deficit (310,308) (20,979) Reserves 3,220,894 2,848,143 TOTAL EQUITY 2,910,586 2,827,164
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
26 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014
Retained Asset Bequests Capital General Total Earnings Revaluation & Reserve Reserve Reserve Major Donations Reserve
$ $ $ $ $ $
Balance at 30 June 2012 152,039 1,014,823 1,172,791 72,442 200,000 2,612,096
Surplus (deficit) attributable to the Society 161,259 0 0 0 0 161,259
Revaluation increment 0 53,809 0 0 0 53,809
Total revenues, expenses and valuation adjustments 0 0 0 0 0 0 attributable to members recognised directly in equity
Transfers to reserves (334,278) 0 334,278 0 0 0
Balance at 30 June 2013 (20,979) 1,068,632 1,507,069 72,442 200,000 2,827,164
Balance at 30 June 2013 (20,979) 1,068,632 1,507,069 72,442 200,000 2,827,164
Surplus (deficit) attributable to the Society 45,978 0 0 0 0 45,978
Revaluation increment 0 37,444 0 0 0 37,444
Total revenues, expenses and valuation adjustments attributable to members recognised directly in equity 0 0 0 0 0 0
Transfers to reserves (335,307) 0 335,307 0 0 0
Balance at 30 June 2014 (310,308) 1,106,076 1,842,376 72,442 200,000 2,910,586
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 27 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014
2014 2013 $ $ CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Fundraising 795,045 667,286 Government Assistance 456,820 436,211 Pharmaceutical Company Sponsorship 16,716 154,919 Interest 7,207 7,665 Rent Received 95,569 91,760 Other Inflows 58,866 63,595 Bequests 379,795 381,914 Book Sales 7,834 6,760 Payments to Suppliers and Employees (including service (1,640,821) (1,743,738) providers) Net Cash provided by Operating Activities 177,040 66,372
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Proceeds from sale of Property, Equipment & Motor Vehicles 15,600 0 Proceeds from Shares 19,080 451 Payments for Shares (17,978) 0 Payments for Property, Plant and Equipment (44,006) (1,882) Net Cash used in Investing Activities (27,304) (1,431)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Repayment of Borrowings 0 0 Deposits (Withdrawals) in Term Investments (31,218) (168,655) Net Cash used in Financing Activities (31,218) (168,655)
NET INCREASE/ (DECREASE) IN CASH HELD 118,518 (103,714) Cash at the beginning of the financial year 53,183 156,897 Cash at the end of the Financial Year 171,701 53,183
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
28 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014
NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The concise financial report is for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania as an individual entity, incorporated and domiciled in Australia. The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania is a company limited by guarantee.
Basis of Preparation of the Concise Financial Report The concise financial report relates to of The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania during and at the end of the year ended 30 June 2014. The concise financial report has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards AASB 1039: Concise Financial Reports and the Corporations Act 2001. The accounting policies have been consistently applied to all financial periods presented unless otherwise stated. The presentation currency used in this concise financial report is Australian dollars.
2014 2013
NOTE 2: REVENUE $ $ Revenue comprises the following items: Operating activities Properties Income 95,569 94,624 Government Grants 456,820 436,211 Pharmaceutical Company Sponsorship 16,716 124,867 Fundraising 718,888 752,701 Bequests & Major Donations 379,795 381,679 Book Sales 7,843 6,760 Other 63,046 61,896 Non-operating activities Interest 7,236 7,858 Profit on Sale of Assets 7,412 54
Total Revenue 1,753,326 1,866,650
NOTE 3: BORROWINGS The Society has no borrowings.
NOTE 4: CAPITAL AND LEASING COMMITMENTS The Society has no current or long-term operating lease commitments
NOTE 5: COMPANY DETAILS The registered office of the Society is: Multiple Sclerosis Society of Tasmania 15 Princes Street Sandy Bay TAS 7005
MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 29 What is Multiple Sclerosis? Since it was first described by the French Neurologist Charcot in 1868, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been the subject of intense, world-wide research but still its cause and cure remain elusive. Sclerosis is a Greek word meaning ‘hardened tissue or scars’ and multiple means many. Recurring episodes of MS can cause many scars to appear in the central nervous system as a result of the breakdown of the myelin, the insulating material that covers the nerve fibres. This can result in impairment of motor, sensory and cognitive functions to a greater or lesser extend. Multiple describes other aspects of what is often a frustratingly unpredictable disease. Episodes can occur at varying times affecting different areas of the central nervous system. There is no one symptom that indicates the presence of MS. No single test can establish an accurate diagnosis. It can begin – in rare cases apparently disappearing altogether after one or two episodes. Or it can progress steadily over many years, bringing about a slow deterioration in an individual’s capabilities. Although we do not yet understand why some people are susceptible and others are not, we do know that an estimated 23,000 Australians have MS. MS Tasmania provides nursing care, counselling support, information and resources to those living with MS across the state. This support is extended to family, friends and carers. Symptoms of MS may include extreme tiredness (fatigue), impaired vision, loss of balance and muscle co-ordination, slurred speech, tremors, stiffness, bladder and bowel problems, difficulty walking, short term memory-loss, mood swings, and, in severe cases, partial or complete paralysis MS Facts Tasmania has the highest incidence of MS in Australia Statistics show that 1 in 20 Australians will be touched by MS through a family member, colleague or friend who is living with the disease. MS is the most common disease of the central nervous system in young adults. 1 An additional 1,000 Australians are diagnosed with MS every year, equating to approximately four people every working day. 1 2.5 million people are living with MS worldwide. 2 Diagnosis of MS is typically between 20 and 40 years of age although onset of symptoms may be earlier. 2 Females are more likely to report having MS than males, with an estimated three quarters of all people with the condition being female. 3 Source – MSA Australia (2005) MS The Mystery Disease. Sydney: MS Australia MS Australia 2012;Key facts and figures about multiple sclerosis References 1. Taylor BV, Lucas R, Dear K, Kilpatrick TJ, Pender MP, van der Mei IAF, et al. Latitudinal variance in incidence and type of first central nervous system demyelinating events. Multiple sclerosis 2010; 16(4):398-405. 2. Multiple Sclerosis International Federation. What is MS? London: Multiple Sclerosis International Federation [cited 16 Nov 2011]. Available from: www.msif.org/en/about_ms/what_is_ms.html 3. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Profiles of Disability, 2009. Cat. No. 4429.0. Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics.
30 MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report MS Tasmania 2013 - 2014 Annual Report 31 Head Office 15 Princes Street Sandy Bay Tas 7005
Northern Regional Office 18/2 Innocent Street Kings Meadows Tas 7250
Freecall 1800 676 721 www.mstas.org.au