As Christmas draws near, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the year’s achievements for ATP, and to also look forward to an exciting new year in 2010.

The ATP has continued to defy the economic trends of the economy and retain a strong financial position this calendar year. Whilst a reduction in the value of the property had an impact on our overall balance sheet, our operating profits remain strong, representing a solid platform for future growth opportunities for the Park. We have retained a high tenancy occupancy rate throughout 2009, and we have also hosted some of the highest profile and prestigious events at ATP.

This has come about through the ongoing loyalty of our clients in our property and conferencing businesses. We are greatly appreciative to our customers for this outcome, and I wish to reassure you that we will continue to strive for customer service excellence in all that we do at ATP.  

A clear highlight for the year was the attainment of the Best Markets of the Year for 2010 for our new Eveleigh Markets. The reputation of the Markets continues to go from strength to strength, and we hope to maintain our leadership in this business in the coming years.

The new year will open with the substantial positive impact of the arrival of Channel 7 and its partner companies. By the end of January 2010 another 1,200 workers will be calling the ATP their new working home, adding to our existing diversity and vibrancy.

In association with Channel 7’s arrival, Locomotive Street is now only open to service vehicles and deliveries, with improvements to car parking systems and roads being made.

In the last two months the Australian Technology Park has also been actively engaging with the community both outside and inside of the Park. 

The hallmark of our community engagement is the announcement last month of our two year sponsorship of Souths Cares, the charitable arm of the South Sydney Rabbitohs.

This sponsorship recognises that we are a major employer and key part of the economic engine room in the Redfern-Waterloo area, and reflects our desire to give back to the community. 

A hallmark ATP tenant community event within the Park was Melbourne Cup Day. This brought about the opportunity for us to host the tenants, and other visitors, with numbers reaching over 300 people. We are pleased to report that $440 raised from the raffle on the day has been donated to the local Mudgin-Gal Aboriginal Corporation, assisting and supporting Aboriginal women and girls and their families. 

Tenants will also be pleased to hear the upgrade of Innovation Plaza to a public car-less space has been approved. This ATP locale is set to become a unique meeting spot for you and visitors to the Park, complementing ties to the heritage past of the locomotive workshops. This is something we will all be able to enjoy.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families all the best for Christmas and I look forward to seeing you in 2010. 

Roy Wakelin-King

MANAGING DIRECTOR