EVERY sport and recreation organisation needs to hold meetings to run their activities.

Unless there are clear procedures, these meetings can be ineffective, drag on for hours or not provide balanced discussion.

Here are some tips for effective meetings:

• Prepare an agenda and circulate to members one week before the meeting.

• Include in the agenda, copies of previous minutes and copies of written reports or updates for members to read prior to attending.

• Read the material distributed before attending the meeting.

• Turn up on time to allow the meeting to start on time. Formal meetings need a quorum before they can start.

• Every meeting needs a chairperson - someone who is a good listener, allows reasonable debate and keep to the agenda.

• Ensure there are clear actions in minutes stating who will do what.

First aid, CPR qualifications vital

A RECENT story involving a sporting club in Logan has highlighted why first aid and CPR qualifications are critical to have.

A 15-year old suffered a cardiac arrest at training and the CPR delivered by a qualified club volunteer within the first 45 minutes is credited as saving the young boy's life.

Ensure your club or organisation is up to date and always has qualified people present.

Ipswich Sports House can deliver tailored group first aid and CPR sessions that suit you. Call 3810 6620 or visit ipswichsportshouse.com.au

Active Breaks over school holidays

THE Ipswich City Council Active Breaks program, delivered by Ipswich Sports House, will be back in action this school holidays.

More than 25 activity sessions are planned across the two weeks of school holidays, including trampolining, gymnastics, golf and athletics. Check out our website to see the schedule and register.

Successful Origin function

IT was not the result Queensland wanted but last Wednesday's State of Origin night was a success.

The Ipswich Sports House Game One function with Mayor Paul Pisasale was well received at the North Ipswich Reserve Corporate Centre.

Some good funds were raised for Switch On Inc as well as local sporting clubs and associations.

Check out the video at: facebook.com/ipswichsportshouse