May is proving to be a good month with most shows so far, reporting good crowds and strong spending. Organisers have even been blessed with good weather for a change.

Reports received that the Hawkesbury's show had a record crowd on the Saturday night and most operators were very pleased with the financial result. Good crowds and trading were also recorded at the Bathurst carnival and Dubbo show, along with the Western Queensland shows at Roma and Biloela.

A record fine has recently been handed down against a Victorian Go Kart operator (full article in this issue of the e-zine). The judges summation makes for interesting reading and I am sure we can all learn something.

The Trans Pacific Insurance issue is going to be one of the biggest things that has hit our business since the HIH Insurance collapse and I feel that the ripple affects will be felt far and wide.

The AALARA conference is here and I look forward to seeing you all up on the Gold Coast next week.

There is a great deal to discuss and many issues that require review and action from within our industry.

I am pleased to see that the National Regulator's/Stakeholders Forum will again take place at the conference and I am looking forward to the simulated court room session of a ride operator being prosecuted by legal heavies, Sparke Helmore Lawyers. I am sure it will give us all plenty to think about!

Phil Durkin

Chair, Transportable Rides and Amusements