EA/Zoetis partnership & EA review

I would like to bring to your attention my concerns over the recent partnership that EA have formed with Zoetis arguably the largest Animal Pharmaceutical Company in Australia.
Whilst understanding that Equestrian Australia (EA) generates income through forming partnerships with external organisation’s this particular partnership has raised a number of questions and angst as to the lack of consultation between shareholders (state Branches) and therefore us as state members and EA.
As you would all be well aware Zoetis is currently involved in a class action which was filed with the Federal Court on the 20/03/2018. The class action involves the Hendra Vaccine a product solely distributed by Zoetis involving a large number of both members and nonmembers of the relevant state branches. This can only be seen as complete disregard for those members involved and dismay on their part that their national body would place a partnership over support of their members. The conflict of interest in this situation is obvious and appears to have been totally disregarded for a short term monetary gain.
Whilst this partnership has caused great deal of anger and confusion amongst members it is not solely due to the Hendra Vaccine. It highlights a culture within our national body which is completely out of touch with its stakeholders and therefore members. This has raised serious concerns amongst members as to whether the EA board’s culture, governance policies, business plan, financial management and decision making procedures are working.
I am requesting that state branches direct EA on my behalf to cease any discussions with Zoetis in regards to their partnership indefinitely. That the contents of any contractual agreement related to this partnership be made available to shareholders and thereby members,this will ensure an informed decision can be made on this partnership which is beneficial to shareholders, members and the organization and promotes the sport long term.
I would also like to have noted my lack of confidence in the current EA board’s ability to manage the growth of our sport and would encourage states to request EA present their accounts for a full forensic audit. The EA board has continuously failed to meet promises of financial transparency, collaboration with shareholders and continued support of members. A board which instead of promoting inclusiveness through basic governance principles has alienated members through bad decision making which has brought our sport into disrepute and therefor a crisis situation