Hello Members,
I write this report with a mix of emotions.
Most of you will be aware of the recent passing of Dr. Peter Spitzer, also known to many as Dr. Fruit-Loop. Dr. Spitzer was the co-founder and medical director of The Humour Foundation and within that role had a close relationship with DTA. Last year, DTA entered into negotiations with The Humour Foundation in developing a Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations. Quite a few of you attended the workshop facilitated by Peter prior to the 2013 Conference in Sydney. At that time, the DTA Board was involved in strategic planning, and I recall with fondness, the pleas of Board members to be able to be released from that meeting and to be able to sit in on Peter’s workshop.
Personally, I met with Peter on several occasions in discussing how the DTA and The Humour Foundation relationship might look, and each time found him to be a very caring, compassionate man, dedicated to spreading the word on the health benefits of humour. My thoughts go to his family and co-workers at this time.
The 2014 Conference planning has moved into full production. A very dedicated team in Adelaide are very busy, and thanks to the support of the DTA office, everything is falling into place neatly. We are very proud and excited that a contingent of Japanese DT members and also members from the Society of New Zealand Diversional Therapists are attending this year’s conference.
For those of you attending, please take the time to chat with our overseas friends. Having met with Takako (President DT Japan) and having attended the 2013 Society of New Zealand Diversional Therapists Conference, I can attest to the passion and dedication of these groups. They will love to hear about your work and the brilliant programs you are involved in.
How many of you are bringing your husbands/partners along to the Conference? This year, we are trialling a new concept – Men on Buses. The day program sounds fantastic and I have no doubt the group of men will have a brilliant time! If you haven’t already considered this, perhaps rethink – bring your bloke along, and have a few days touring Adelaide either before or after the Conference! Airfares and accommodation are cheaper, so it’s a great way to combine work and pleasure in amazing surroundings!
As we move into the second half of 2014, the November AGM looms. This year, there are several positions available on your Board. I would implore each of you to consider your own involvement in the peak body representing the Diversional Therapist and Diversional Therapy role. I can speak confidently in saying any involvement in DTA will be exciting, and will support you in your chosen career path. I believe the future for DTA will involve change, resulting from growth and evolution. Any change also heralds motivation and stimulation, and supports personal development. If you are excited by this, then please, make the bold move and put your hand up to be part of your Board or perhaps one of the Portfolios. You can read more on this later in the newsletter.
I look forward to meeting many of you in Adelaide, and am happy to chat further with you if you have any questions about being part of your peak body,
Regards,
Louise Absalom
President