Although the election of the new 2026/2027 Management Committee was the formal order of business, it was conducted efficiently and swiftly at the uMngeni SPCA Annual General Meeting on Saturday, 25 July. For the third consecutive year, Howick Preparatory School generously made its hall and excellent facilities available for the meeting, for which the Society is sincerely grateful.
The proceedings were expertly guided by accomplished Master of Ceremonies Mary Webb, a dedicated events volunteer who is well known locally for her engaging and witty public presentations inspired by the many countries she has travelled to and lived in.
The Society's leadership remains strong, with Monika Holst re-elected as Chairperson, supported by Vice-Chairperson Vanessa Remmington, Treasurer Angela Ferguson, and Secretary Linda Brown.
Ashley Brown stepped down after two years of dedicated service, during which he applied his extensive human resources expertise to the comprehensive development and implementation of organisational processes, protocols, and procedures. His meticulous work has laid a solid foundation for the Society's future growth.
Margaret Kruger has taken on the newly created Inspectorate Development portfolio, while Daniel van den Heever has joined the committee to oversee Technical Support.
Presentations highlighted both the challenges and significant achievements of the past two financial years, covering the period from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2026. Members heard about major infrastructure improvements, ongoing staff development, and the successful integration of new retail systems designed to improve profitability and strengthen stock control.
Looking ahead, the Society will continue to invest in developing its Veterinary Clinic, under the leadership of Dr. Margie Gatley-Roach, as a sustainable income stream to support the SPCA's kennel, cattery, inspectorate, and community outreach programmes.
Treasurer Angela Ferguson's financial report revealed an encouraging turnaround, with the Society moving from operating at a loss to achieving a balanced budget. A particularly welcome highlight was the announcement of an exceptionally generous donation, which has enabled the committee to begin investing a portion of the funds toward building a long-term financial reserve to strengthen the organisation's sustainability.
The committee also appealed for volunteers with skills or an interest in human resources, event management, and assisting in the Society's charity shops.
Throughout the meeting, one message resonated above all others: heartfelt gratitude to the uMngeni community for its unwavering support of its local and much-loved SPCA.
As Chairperson Monika Holst so aptly summed up the Society's purpose:
"Everything we do is for the animals."
