NANASA LSB meeting minutes 24th November 2025

NA Northern Australia Service Board

Local Service Board Meeting – Minutes

Date: Monday 24 November 2025

Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Location: Microsoft Teams Facilitator: Dillon M. (Chairperson) Minute Taker: Dillon M.

 

Attendance

Present:

• Dillon M. – LSB Chairperson
• Meredith – Acting RCM / H&I
• Cameron W. – LSC Facilitator
• Joymaree – PR Chair
• Michael B. – Treasurer
• Lyn – Convention Chair

Apologies:

• None recorded

Note on attendance:

No additional participants were identified in the roll call at the commencement of the meeting. All attendees present at the start remained for the duration of the meeting.

 

1. Opening

The meeting commenced at 7:00 pm.

The Chair welcomed members and outlined the intent to proceed efficiently through the agenda:

“Thank you to everyone that has made the time this week to attend the LSB. I am going to get straight into it this week as we have a lot to work through.”

The Service Prayer was read in full, followed by an Acknowledgement of Country.

The Chair advised the meeting was being recorded for the purpose of accurate minutetaking and confirmed there were no objections.

An expectation of maintaining an atmosphere of recovery and respectful communication was reiterated.

2. Reports
   • RCM Report

Meredith provided an update in her capacity as Acting RCM, noting she is preparing the report for the upcoming November ARSC and confirming the report is due shortly.

She advised that the regional H&I workgroup continues to function effectively, allowing for consistent communication across Queensland coordinators and supporting continuity of service delivery.

“The H&I workgroup is running well… a lot of the Queensland coordinators are part of that group, so I’m able to keep in touch with them that way. I feel like things are still turning.”

Meredith outlined that the RCM report will include updated data on:

• Active meetings and recent growth
• Service position vacancies
• GSR and GSF participation levels
• Literature distribution and activity reporting

She sought clarification from the Board on several data points to ensure accuracy, including average GSR attendance and recent unity activities, which were confirmed during the discussion.

Outcome:

• Acting RCM report to be finalised and submitted to Region by the due date.
• Board confirmed data points discussed for inclusion in the November ARSC report.

 

• Treasurer’s Report

Michael confirmed that the Treasurer’s report had been posted online and provided a verbal overview of the current financial position.

He advised that Northern Australia is holding funds across a large number of accounts, including both group and area/management accounts.

“We haven’t really been in this position before… about 30 meeting accounts and 20 area or management accounts.”

The Board discussed the implications of several groups holding larger balances than typically required for prudent reserves. It was agreed that further communication with group treasurers would be beneficial to support fund-flow and financial responsibility.

Michael also confirmed that recent reimbursements had been processed and that additional PR-related expenses were discussed later in the meeting.

Outcome:

• Treasurer to contact group treasurers with higher balances to discuss prudent reserves and fund-flow.
• Treasurer’s report noted and accepted.

 

2.3 H&I Hub Report

Meredith provided an update on Hospitals & Institutions activity, noting that operations have remained stable despite the ongoing vacancy in the H&I Coordinator role.

She confirmed that panels continue at:

• Cairns Men’s Correctional
• Townsville rehabilitation facilities
• Brisbane Women’s Centre

Roster gaps caused by member relocation had been addressed promptly.

“We’ve had a few step up and take new rosters, which has really helped keep the continuity.”

The Chair acknowledged the work being done to maintain service delivery during the interim period.

“From what I’ve seen, it all seems to be running smoothly… the most important thing is that we’re out there and doing the job.”

Outcome:

• H&I service delivery confirmed as stable and ongoing.
• Interim coordination by Meredith (with Chair support) to continue until the role is filled.
• H&I Coordinator position remains open for nomination.

 

2.4 Public Relations (PR) Report

Joymaree provided a detailed update on PR activity, including outreach, communications, and a postponed PR workshop in Melbourne.

She explained that the workshop was cancelled due to travel issues, resulting in a partially non-refundable airfare.

“The flight down is not refundable… the one coming back was credited.”

Michael sought clarification on costs and confirmed reimbursement arrangements.

“If it was purely for NA business, then I think we need to reimburse you for that. Just flick me an email so I’ve got some paper to go off.”

The Chair confirmed agreement from the Board, and there were no objections.

Joymaree also reported on recent PR actions:

• Updated service listings and contact information
• Revised community presentation templates with current branding
• Ongoing enquiries related to meeting information
• Attendance and visibility at recent fellowship and community events

Outcome:

• Board approved reimbursement of the non-refundable PR travel expense.
• Updated PR materials and contact listings noted as completed.
• PR activity report accepted.

3. Old Business and Updates

3.1 Member Survey Results

The Chair revisited the outstanding member survey, noting that results have not yet been circulated due to access issues.

Cameron advised that he has been unable to obtain the data from Gretel, who holds the survey files.

“I’ve rung her a couple of times and she hasn’t got back to me.”

The Chair expressed concern that members had taken the time to complete the survey and that feedback had not yet been returned to the Fellowship.

“We’ve got all these answers from all these people and they’ve taken the time to do that

— and it’s like we’re just sitting on it and doing nothing about it.”

Cameron clarified that the delay was due to access limitations rather than inaction.

“That’s not actually true… we’ve got the information, but Gretel has the codes and I’ve been locked out.”

The Board agreed the issue should continue to be followed up and that, once accessed, results should be shared with members.

Outcome:

• Cameron to continue following up with Gretel to obtain access to the survey data.
• Survey results to be circulated to members once access is restored.

 

3.2 H&I Coordinator – Temporary Arrangements

The Board reviewed the ongoing temporary arrangements for the H&I Coordinator role.

Meredith advised that no new nominations had been received since the last meeting.

“I haven’t been able to get any traction.”

Despite this, she confirmed that service delivery remains stable due to the strength of the existing workgroup and support from Queensland coordinators.

“The H&I workgroup is up and running… they’ve got access to other people to talk to, and I’m keeping the wheel spinning in the background.”

The Chair acknowledged the situation and reinforced that continuity of service was the priority.

“We’re not sinking… the most important thing is that we are out there and doing the job.”

It was also noted that recent roster gaps caused by member relocations had been successfully filled, resulting in broader service participation.

Outcome:

• Meredith and the Chair to continue interim coordination of H&I functions.
• H&I Coordinator position to remain open for nomination. Local Service Conference (LSC) and Planning
• The Board discussed ongoing challenges with LSC engagement, noting consistently low participation in online formats. Cameron advised that the current approach is not generating meaningful involvement from groups and that a clearer, more structured planning process is required.
• “I believe the way forward is with a plan — and that plan needs to be made with everybody, face-to-face.”
• It was acknowledged that many members lack a clear understanding of the service structure and that online meetings have not been effective in building engagement at a local level.
• “When you put on a face-to-face, they are overwhelmingly supported. When we run online, it doesn’t work.”
• November LSC
• The Board agreed that the November LSC should proceed as scheduled, despite recent low attendance. Discussion focused on ensuring the session supports constructive engagement and forward planning rather than revisiting unresolved issues.
• “It’s imperative we have this one to get some sort of consensus around the plan.”
• Outcome:
• November LSC to proceed.
• Workshop content to focus on engagement, communication, and future planning.
• Future LSC Structure
• Cameron proposed a four-part annual LSC model comprising:
• Face-to-face planning
• Online budgeting and feasibility review
• Progress check-in
• End-of-year evaluation
• The Board agreed this structure would improve clarity, accountability, and group ownership.
• Outcome:
• Four-part annual LSC model endorsed.
• 2026 Face-to-Face Planning Weekend
• The Board supported, in principle, a two-day face-to-face planning weekend in Brisbane in early 2026, noting Brisbane as the most cost-effective location. “It’s cheaper to fly everybody into Brisbane.”
• Outcome:
• In-principle approval for a 2026 planning weekend (estimated $2,500–$3,000).
• Cameron to prepare a funding proposal for presentation at the November LSC.

 

5. Service Listings and Fellowship Development
   • Group and Area Representation

The Board discussed inconsistencies in Group Service Forum (GSF) representation across Northern Australia, noting that the effectiveness of the Local Service Conference is dependent on consistent group participation.

Meredith raised concerns about gaps in GSF coverage in several areas and the impact this has on communication and engagement.

“The LSC is predicated on GSFs being represented… and I think that the LSC is profoundly affected by the non-attendance of the GSFs.”

The Chair acknowledged the issue and proposed revisiting the matter following the November LSC, once further feedback from groups is available.

Outcome:

• Representation gaps formally noted.
• GSF representation to be reviewed and discussed further at the December meeting.

 

• Service Listings and Contact Data

Joymaree highlighted discrepancies in service listings and contact information, particularly in regional and remote areas.

“There are a lot of areas within Queensland that don’t have GSFs… that’s why I have that PR contact list.”

It was noted that, while contact lists exist, some information is outdated or incomplete, creating barriers to access and communication.

Outcome:

• PR Coordinator to review and update NA service listings and contact data.
• Updated contact list to be circulated prior to the November LSC.
• Agreement to establish a consistent listings maintenance approach for 2026.

6. Regional & National Liaison
   • RCM Report – November ARSC

Meredith advised that she is finalising the RCM Report for submission to the November ARSC, noting the report deadline is imminent.

She requested input from the Board to strengthen the report, specifically seeking feedback on communication and engagement practices, and examples from other areas operating under similar service structures.

“I’d love some feedback or tips or pointers on communication — on how other regions run, you know, how they communicate with GSFs.”

Cameron noted that Melbourne operates under a different service structure and may provide useful comparative insight.

“Most areas run the ASC style except for Melbourne or Victoria… they’re the only ones that don’t run an ASC.”

The Board agreed this information would be valuable for regional discussion and planning.

Outcome:

• Meredith to finalise and submit the RCM Report for the November ARSC.
• Board members to provide brief written input on communication and engagement for inclusion in the report.
• Meredith to liaise with Melbourne Area for comparative insights where appropriate.

 

6.2 Hosting the Next Roving ARSC

Cameron proposed that Northern Australia volunteer to host the next roving ARSC, suggesting Brisbane as the most practical and cost-effective location. “I’d like to see the roving ARSC in Brisbane.”

The proposal was supported by the Chair and noted for inclusion in regional discussions.

Outcome:

• Northern Australia to express interest in hosting the next roving ARSC in Brisbane.
• Meredith to include this proposal in her November ARSC report.
• Cameron to assist by contacting the ARSC Vice Chair or Chair to confirm process and requirements.

 

7. Meeting Close

The Chair thanked members for their contributions and closed the meeting with the Service Prayer.

Meeting closed at: 8:30 pm

Next Meeting:

Monday 29 December 2025 at 7:00 pm, via Microsoft Teams.

 

Decisions & Actions Register

 

No.	Decision / Action	Responsible	Timing / Status
1	Submit Acting RCM Report to the November ARSC	Meredith	By ARSC submission deadline
2	Provide input to Acting RCM on communication and engagement practices for inclusion in ARSC report	Board members	Immediately
3	Liaise with Melbourne Area to gather comparative information on service structure and engagement	Meredith	Prior to ARSC
4	Contact group treasurers holding higher balances to discuss prudent reserves and fund-flow	Michael	Before next LSB
5	Reimburse non-refundable PR travel expense relating to postponed Melbourne workshop	Michael	Before next LSB
6	Continue interim coordination of H&I services pending appointment of Coordinator	Meredith/Dillon	Ongoing
7	Keep H&I Coordinator position open for nominations	LSB	Ongoing
8	Proceed with November Local Service Conference as scheduled	Cameron/LSB	Confirmed
9	Adopt four-part annual LSC planning model (planning, budgeting, check-in, evaluation)	LSB	Confirmed
10	Prepare funding proposal for a 2026 face-to-face planning weekend in Brisbane	Cameron	For presentation to LSB/LSC
11	Review gaps in Group Service Forum (GSF) representation across Northern Australia	LSB	December meeting
12	Review and update NA service listings and contact information	Joymaree	Prior to next LSC
13	Express interest in hosting the next roving ARSC in Brisbane	Meredith/Cameron	Via ARSC process