The Australian Sporting Goods Association has thanked Shannon Walker for his six years at the helm as Executive Director, after accepting his resignation to pursue a new career opportunity.

ASGA Board President, Andrew Reed, said “On behalf of the Board and all ASGA members, I’d like to sincerely thank Shannon for his excellent service to ASGA over the last six years.”

“Shannon has been a leader of genuine strength, articulating his thoughts with a high degree of clarity and honesty. His depth of knowledge on government advocacy and lobbying has enabled ASGA to gain positive outcomes with policy makers, while also improving the connection to the associations’ membership base.”

“More than anything, Shannon was hired to influence the Government to scrap the low value threshold to assist in creating a fairer playing field for Australian Sporting Goods businesses in the face of global competition. Following years of lobbying and advocacy, this July 1 will see the start of a new law, which will force overseas retailers to charge GST at the point-of-purchase and remit that GST back to the Taxation Office, the same as every Australian retailer. Shannon has played a significant role in this change and should be congratulated for his efforts on our behalf,” Mr Reed said.

Outgoing Executive Director, Shannon Walker, said “I’ve really enjoyed my time with ASGA. It’s been a great six years and I’m very grateful for the opportunity the sporting and active lifestyle sector has given me. I believe ASGA is in a very sound position, with the Board having worked very hard to craft an exciting new strategic direction for the Association, which focuses on providing the membership the benefits of a focussed strategy based on knowledge and insights; networking and development; and advocacy and support.”

“From a personal perspective I am looking forward to taking up an exciting new role. I’d like to thank current ASGA president Andrew Reed, the current board, past presidents and board members, the ASGA members and other stakeholders in the sporting and active lifestyle goods industry, for all their support and encouragement over the last six years,” Mr Walker said.

“We wish Shannon every success in his new role. As a Board, we are focussed on finding a similarly high quality individual with the dynamic skills and energy that ASGA requires to take our association to next level for the exciting times ahead,” Mr Reed said.

Shannon will be working in his current role of Executive Director until 13^th April and applications for the new role will be open soon.

Taken from Australian Sporting Goods Association Media Release 22 March 2018