Past president Michael Schulz informed members that while the book and magazine production awards were being suspended after 36 years, the club hoped to revive them in 2014.

"There were just too few of us who are willing to sort books, add up score sheets, organise seating plans and phone sponsors for support this year. This does not mean the end of the Galley Club, but it does mean that there will be no gala dinner and no trophies," said Schulz.

"We want to thank our sponsors and the many others who have supported us in in the past and who shared our passion.

"We sincerely believe that quality has a value in print and digital book and magazine production. Therefore we will call for your support again next January."

[Photos: Who was at last year's awards?]

Schulz told ProPrint that GASA and the Australian Publishers Association had offered to take over the awards. He said the club was grateful for the support, and might eventually accept one of their offers, but that it remained a last resort.

Schulz said many awards attendees had told him over the years how enjoyable they had found the dinners, and how valuable they had been in terms of networking and discussing ideas.

The Galley Club will continue holding small events, including a function in Sydney on 3 July at which publishing guru Bo Sacks will give a talk on 'The Lucrative Future of Publishing in the 21st Century'.

"He's a guy with decades of experience in publishing, especially the commercial aspect," said Schulz.

"He has a realistic approach and knows a lot about making it work financially. He talks a lot about circulation, migration to new media, and what's worthwhile and not worthwhile."

[LinkedIn: Do printers give enough support to industry events?]

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter