In 2005, the OA Council agreed to the proposal that a new position Executive Officer be created in the federation in the place of the old position Director Administration. The position was advertised in November 2005.

Following a formal selection process, Gareth Candy has been appointed the initial Executive Officer for Orienteering Australia and will commence in the position on 1 April 2006, operating from office accommodation in Canberra. Aged 27, Gareth grew up in Western Australia and moved to the ACT in around 2000 to study. He recently completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Coaching Science), which included studies and practical experiences in sports management and administration. He has been a member of the Orienteering Australia Council for a number of years, representing elite athletes.

In announcing the appointment, Bob McCreddin paid tribute to the contribution that the Director (Administration), Dave Lotty has made for over 20 years. He said, “Dave Lotty will conclude his long relationship with the Executive and the Board of Orienteering Australia at Easter. I know that you [the OA Council] will all join with all past and present Members of the Board who will be expressing their greatest appreciation to Dave for the services he has provided Orienteering Australia down the years. His contribution has been lengthy and significant. Thank you, Dave.”