"Humbled and excited"

by Shane Sody

“Humbled and excited”. That’s Mat Monti’s response after being elected last Sunday to lead the Adelaide Park Lands Association over the next 12 months.

The Association’s Annual General Meeting at the Unley Town Hall was an opportunity for members to hear reports on APA’s past activities, activities, strategies and finances, and choose the Association’s leaders for next 12 months.

Mat Monti addresses APA members at the Association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting

“This year will be a big one for APA, there are a lot attacks on your Park Lands from the State Government, but we’re here for the fight” Mat Monti said after the meeting.

“Our incoming Committee is filled with people who are passionate about protecting your Park Lands, and who have a diverse skill set that will serve the Association well.”

“A good Committee is nothing without dedicated volunteers and members, so thank you to all those who have volunteered with APA in the past. But our work isn’t over so please be on the look out for opportunities to volunteer, contact us if you’re interested in serving on a subcommittee, and let’s get to work!”

From left, Committee members at the AGM: Tim Jackson, Ben Ayris, Melissa Ballantyne, Mat Monti, Christel Mex, and Shane Sody. Missing from pic: Pauline Bradford. Pic: Helen Hutton

The Annual General Meeting heard from guest speaker, Greens Senator Barbara Pocock who told us of her difficulties in recent months, trying to convince Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt to “call in” for Federal appraisal, controversial State Government initiatives such as a 38-storey skyscraper under construction on Festival Plaza in Park 26.

Greens Senator, Barbara Pocock, at the APA Annual General Meeting, Unley Town Hall, on Sunday 19 April 2026. Pic: Ian Buckland

The AGM also heard reports from

  • outgoing President, Ben Ayris

  • outgoing Treasurer, Bruno Zeni;

  • and subCommittee Chairs

    • Liz Tideman (“Explore”);

    • Mat Monti (“Protect and Restore”)

    • Shane Sody (“Communications”)

    • Christel Mex (“Fundraising”)

The AGM decided to maintain membership fees at their current level for another 12 months, leaving the lowest-cost annual membership (single concession) at just $20.