The Isle of Cumbrae Tourist Association held their annual general meeting on Wednesday March 22 in Fraser's Bar, discussing the new Country Music Festival.

Angela Giorgetti gave a report from the festival committee and answered questions from the floor. Angela highlighted the new 'make-over' of the Country and Western Festival, which will now be known as The Millport Country Music Festival, and the exciting plans to host a larger marquee in Bute Terrace with big name acts include The Shires and Margaret Allan gave a report about the country dancing events.

General meeting

A good number of interested parties and members attended the meeting. Ken Mapes, the chairman, gave an opening report, outlining the advantages of the good days and the disadvantages of the poorer weather that the summer had had, and the effects that the new Road Equivalent Tariff had had. He also stated that the new brochure was in print and would be available soon and that membership fees are due once again.
He thanked Charles Kelly for running the website, which he stated had been hacked this year. Ken also thanked John Taberner, Suki McGregor and Gill Miller for printing and distributing the 'What's On' leaflets and posters, and Mary Currie and Emma-Jane Newton for organising the association's September Weekend illuminations events. He finished by announcing he was standing down as chair after a long number of years. Ken also gave the financial report, going through the financial statement very thoroughly. He stated that the association were looking to do a 30 second television advert this year.
Mary Currie gave a report about the September Weekend thanking everyone who had worked so hard that weekend and everyone who had taken part in the community event. She asked if anyone would like to take over organising, as she is hoping to retire now.
Charlie Kelly was unable to attend the meeting so Ken read out a statement from him regarding the website. The hacking problem had been resolved.
Bill Steele from the Ferry Users Group then spoke about Cal Mac and the R.E.T outlining many issues including the request for some different timed sailings. He said that the SPT were now looking into how feasible and economical the RET had been. The committee was then elected, and Ken stated that if anyone would like to join, they should come along to the next committee meeting. No new members were elected at this meeting but it is hoped that new members attend their next meeting.
The next committee meeting will be held on Wednesday April 18 at 7.30pm. Anyone who would like to join the committee will be made most welcome. Also anyone who would like to take over the co-ordination of the September Weekend should go to the meeting or contact Mary on 530544. Mary has promised to help them next year.
The meeting then closed with a vote of thanks to the chair.
Membership for a trade membership of of £20 is now due, or £5 for a non-trade membership. These can be handed in to Mapes Cycle shop or paid by BACS, with the account details from Ken.
The Tourist Association continues to promote the island and support events and members.