Taranaki Rugby posts healthy surplus
After working through some of the most challenging times in its 139-year history, the Taranaki Rugby Football Union has posted successive surpluses.
The union posted a net operating surplus of $154,593 for 2023, an improved financial position from the previous year after operating income rose 26%.
Despite the positive financial position, which followed a $20,454 surplus the previous year, union chairperson Dan Radcliffe warned at its annual meeting in Toko on Wednesday night that it was still facing an uncertain time.
“Despite our success on the field, we are still operating in a very challenging financial environment,” he said.
Revenue gains through commercial partnerships, Chiefs shares and hosting the final of the National Provincial Championship were some of the main factors that assisted the union in delivering a surplus against a backdrop of increased costs, Radcliffe added.
“The business is tracking towards a healthier financial position to weather any unforeseeable storms that may come our way. 2024 will be an important year to consolidate on the success of 2023 before we have a full Yarrow Stadium at our disposal in 2025.”
Meanwhile, there were a number of changes to the union’s board.
Scott Ireland and Kylie Hawker-Green were successfully nominated as appointed directors, replacing Marise James and Peter Tennent.
James and Tennent retire from office after periods of six and eight years respectively.
President Cherry Blyde retired after a two-year term with vice-president and Taranaki centurion Kevin Barrett becoming the new president.
Former Yarrows Taranaki head coach and centurion Colin Cooper was appointed vice-president, while Inglewood stalwart and tireless volunteer and respected liaison officer John Davidson was made a life member.