This was covered a few months ago (perhaps even a year ago).
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=38644&SearchTerms=association"Australia Windsurfing Association" is an administrative function that facilitates some legal issues (including the third party insurance policy). They also coordinate the proposed dates for major events (that are proposed by the state associations), and class affiliations.
I understand that you cannot join the AWA, but rather pay membership to state associations, who kick any national or class affiliation fees to the Australian Association.
The function of the State associations is to organise events, collect dues and facilitate any requirements of local clubs. Their focus is driven by the enthusiasm of the members. In NSW there is nobody on the committee that focuses on social aspects - this is because nobody has volounteered to do this function. There are representatives for racing and wave sailing, so naturally the focus is on these disciplines.
If you want the state association to organise something outside its current area of focus, find someone who is enthusiastic, get them to sit on the committee and organise the event.
So - if you want to revive a "boardsailors ball", ask your state association (or club) if they have a social secretary you can talk to, if they dont then volounteer your services. The more hands on deck the better.
JB
