Benoni SPCA welcomes new chairperson

Diane Wooldrige was elected as the new chairperson of the Benoni SPCA at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting on July 15 at Lemongrass Restaurant, in Western Extension.

Nico Grobler, from Baillie Koseff and Grobler inc, presented the organisation’s audit report.

He opened the report by stating that businesses are battling in the current economy and raised concern for the next financial period.

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Grobler reflected on the decrease in income as he noted that donations had fallen by R200 000 in the last year and added that the organisation’s expenses were relatively similar to last year’s financial period.

Diane gave her final vice report, she started by thanking former chairperson Shelly Owens for her dedication during her position for the last three and a half years. She also wished her a speedy recovery.

Diane thanked newly qualified inspector Serra Gouriet for her hard work over the past two years and welcomed Sifiso Mthemby and Thomas Mohlake to the society as trainee inspectors, as well as Martine Hampson as acting manager after former manager Vicky Finnermore left the organisation.

Roger Hudson was welcomed as a new member of the committee.

All staff members were thanked for their dedication and tireless efforts as well as the committee for their assistance throughout the year.

She took the time to thank the community for their continued support during Covid-19, which allowed the organisation to pay all staff members in full without UIF assistance.

Diane added that unity and teamwork have been the driving force behind a successful society amongst Covid-19.Acting manager Martine delivered the manager’s report and stated the following was achieved in 2019:

• Pathways were repainted and relayed within the pound area.
• Veterinary networks were increased as the society welcomed Craig View veterinary clinic and Northmead veterinary clinic.
• She marked an increase in surrenders, strays, and confiscations during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Martine added that Covid-19 protocols are being adhered to and adoptions have now been opened and had increase adoptions of cats by 25 per cent and dogs by 35 per cent for the overall 2019/2020 period.

Serra conferred the inspector’s report and explained the importance of the Animal Protection Act and how it serves as a guideline in all work carried out by herself and fellow staff members.

She highlighted the importance of education, grounds of confiscation and protocols being followed.

The public was encouraged to report animal abuse and to collect as much evidence as possible.

A list of general inspection sights was mentioned and they had done the following:

•  270 routine inspections
• 410 cruelty inspections
• 36 search and seizure warrants.

The following members were elected as committee members for the upcoming year:

Diane (chairperson), Shelly Owens, Roger Hudson, Riven Naidoo and Tanya Baird (vice-chairperson).

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