15/09/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
1. AGM Coverage – Sensationalised and Misleading
The Herald’s article of 12 August 2025 on our AGM failed to reflect the full context of the meeting. The reporting highlighted controversy but omitted the detailed explanations, clarifications, and answers that were provided to members present.
As any committee is well aware, explanations can be repeated endlessly to no avail. However where grievances are fueled by egos or an entrenched position/s, even comprehensive and honest answers will not satisfy everyone. The article created the impression of secrecy and conflict, when in truth the AGM was an open, constitutional meeting at which the committee addressed concerns thoroughly.
It is also telling that individuals who have never contributed anything to the LSC SPCA’s work are suddenly and loudly positioning themselves as devoted supporters, while simultaneously using social media and the press to unjustifiably criticise members of the management committee. If even a fraction of that energy and effort were directed to supporting the animals in our care, assisting our staff, or uplifting underprivileged owners who rely on our services, the entire community would be stronger for it.
Instead, what we see is misplaced energy and personalised attacks which serve only to distract from the work at hand. The real casualties of these agendas are:
• The staff of the SPCA, who are caught in the crossfire of reputational attacks;
• The animals we serve, whose welfare should be the priority; and
• The underprivileged pet owners who rely on the SPCA for affordable access to animal care and support.
2. Commitment to Transparency and Governance
The LSC SPCA operates strictly in accordance with the Constitution and Rules of the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) and the SPCA Act. Accordingly:
• All financial records are independently audited each year.
• Members of the SPCA may inspect records at our offices, ensuring accountability while protecting confidentiality.
• Contrary to speculation, there is no cover-up of finances.
3. Membership and Leadership Decisions
The revocation of honorary memberships and the removal of Ms. Susan Henderson as Chairperson were lawful decisions, guided by the Constitution and by the Society’s duty to uphold proper governance and policy. These actions were taken to protect the integrity of the organisation, not to target individuals. The previous management committees of the organisation created new classifications of members where they were never empowered by the constitution to do so. It was emphasised at the AGM that we are trying to find an equitable balance and meet both our obligations with the framework that guides us and the wants of the community.
4. Conflict of Interest and Service Providers
Allegations of nepotism are unfounded. The Treasurer’s daughter was elected to provide services to the SPCA by a management committee that did not include her and was made an entire year before she joined the management committee.
• The Treasurer’s daughter provides services at 80% discounted rate, verified by sworn affidavit and independently confirmed by the NSPCA.
• All such relationships are declared and managed under strict conflict-of-interest policies.
• This was explained at length at the AGM yet was left out of the article by the press.
5. Pending Legal Matters
Speculation about pending legal proceedings is irresponsible. The LSC SPCA upholds the principle, espoused in our law, that a person is innocent until proven guilty and will not prejudice legal processes through public debate. The criminal case opened against our Treasurer does not relate to any of her professional and fiduciary duties to this Society and furthermore is unsubstantiated and allegation only.
6. Right of Reply and Time to Respond
The Herald afforded the Society five days to respond to the serious allegations contained in a letter. While we engaged in good faith, the gravity of the accusations (cover-ups, criminality, ethical misconduct) required more editorial care and independent verification, not simply the passing on of unverified allegations. Two complaints have been raised with the press council in relation to this and other matters.
7. Fundraising and Allocation of Proceeds
Regarding Pints for Paws: 3
• The LSC SPCA received 50% of the gate fees, proceeds from the auction, and direct donations.
• We did not receive the other 50% of gate fees, stall fees, or food and beverage profits.
• Any impression that “all proceeds” accrued to the SPCA is false.
We note that many were upset that the actualities were explained to the public.
8. Focus on Animal Welfare
Despite the noise of public disputes, our inspectors, staff, and volunteers continue to rescue, rehabilitate, and show up for the animals daily. Every decision by this committee is guided by the mission of preventing cruelty to animals. We will not lose sight of that duty despite the noise.
9. Closing
The LSC SPCA reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability of all associated with us, and animal welfare. We call on our community to seek facts directly from the Society rather than rely on sensationalised accounts, personal grievances, or social media campaigns. Together, with genuine support, we can ensure that the animals and owners who need us most are not lost in the crossfire of agendas.
Finally, we would like to thank our supporters, our staff and our volunteers who put the animals above all else.
Issued by: Management Committee Lower South Coast SPCA 12 September 2025
