Thankfully elections come annually, not monthly! Last December's saw a victory for the workers around the club, together with those who are determined to improve the lot of members rather than simply sit around whingeing. My congratulations to those elected. Let me make it clear, however, that I welcome your suggestions. After all, that was what the survey was largely all about. By all means send me a note, a message on the BBS, or write to PC Update setting out any constructive criticism of what we are doing-or not doing. 

A disappointing aspect of the election was the small voter turnout. Only 7 per cent registered a vote or sent a proxy. This might be a sign that things were regarded as being OK and the challenge to this club's administration was not taken seriously. Could have been a dangerous attitude! On the other hand, it might mean that only 7 per cent cared. Hard to accept that when 2,060 members filled in a five-page survey form recently.

A special tribute to George Skarbek, whose dedication and independence as Returning Officer is quite remarkable. Many thanks to the many volunteers, led by Roy McLean, who offered their assistance to George.

Members' Survey 

Ross Parkhowell, one of the volunteer "finds" of 1994, is currently analysing the data and teaching the Committee how to understand and implement the myriad of trends disgorged. Expect to read and hear more in the next few months as our subcommittee, comprising Editor Ash, Secretary Taig, Ross and yours truly, explore the responses.

Committee Responsibilities 

The committee met twice in December, the first an extraordinary meeting aimed at ensuring a smooth transition and identifying and allocating areas of responsibility for the ensuing year. 

Equipment - Allan Michelmore, aided by that trusty triumvirate of Peter Freeman, Tom Coleman and Philip Lew. 

Training - Ren Benko is to keep his eye on Tom Coleman. I am not sure who will be keeping an eye on Ren Benko.

Shareware - Trevor Jacobs will marry his role with that of Bulk Shareware Registration Coordinator. 

SIGs - Colin Lovitt (more later). 

BBS - no change. Barry McMenomy - sysop; Allan Michelmore, Philip Lew, Peter Freeman and  co-sysops.

PC Update - no change, although new faces will emerge this year. 

Volunteers - Stan Johnstone. He will liaise with Janet Henstock, volunteer coordinators in the office, and swap meet personnel. 

Public Relations - a subcommittee of Gary Taig, Dave Mitchell and Tessa Melland to look after this highly important area, which includes marketing the Group, spreading the word, and media liaison. 

Internet - the urbane Ash Nallawalla. 

Swap Meets - Keith Beresford, assisted by a cast of thousands led by Phil, Allan, old Uncle Tom Cobbley and all. 

It's going to be a big, hard-working year. Wish them luck! 

Training Calendar 

Tom and his crew have training leaping ahead. The new calendar appears overleaf and demonstrates a much stronger Comms flavour (modems, BBS, offline readers, Internet). Prices have remained at the same, highly competitive levels as last year-great value-confirming that one of the prime purposes of the Group is educating members. I suggest you make your decisions early and book in with Tricia at the office.

Modem Offer 

Barry and the BBS team have come up with another fantastic modem deal, this time from Netcomm, for 14,400 and 28,800 bps data/fax modems-see later in this issue of PC Update. Apart from the unbeatable prices, the advantage is that purchasers can draw on the stockpile of expertise in the BBS room as well as other members who will take up the offer. 

You can order on the BBS (if you are upgrading), or from the office. Bear in mind that you cannot simply put your name down. Your order must be accompanied by payment. Credit cards are fine-it's a bit hard to use anything else on the board! 

By the way, Barry tells me that the reason we are buying V FC/V Fast modems rather than V 34 is our experience of their proven reliability and their great value. Time I upgraded to a V.Fast!

New Rules 

Happily, they were approved overwhelmingly at the December meeting, evidence that the Group can approach such contentious matters in a mature way. It's good to put the past behind us! I would like to think that the discourse that arose out of the few weeks of discussion preceding their approval will continue. I am keeping a file of suggestions from members, and welcome any proposed changes. The Rules are far from perfect send me a note or a BBS message if you have any concerns or criticisms.

Family Members 

As we hoped, members are rapidly taking up the offer of family memberships. For an extra $10 per family member, you can join up spouses, children, or other family living at the same address. We will give "family" a wide definition in keeping with the times. Once again, the person to speak to is Tricia at the office.

SIGs 

I have taken over as SIG coordinator with the aim of introducing a SIGs charter setting out the rights and obligations of SIGs, their members and conveners, and the commensurate duties of the Group towards them. Hopefully, this will achieve a greater measure of certainty and keep the SIGs (which I regard as the engine room of Melb PC) and attendees happy. Piece of cake! 

Once again, your input is sought. I will be meeting with SIG conveners shortly. Meanwhile, let me know what your complaints, needs and wish lists are. No harm in askin', folks!

Office layout 

One of the major projects for the forthcoming year is to attempt to redesign and shape the office of Melb PC - the size of the training and SIG rooms and their location, the utilisation of office and storage space, the BBS, shareware, and volunteer areas, Janet and Tricia's offices and the Committee room together with a friendlier entry area, more secure library section, etc. 

A threshold decision not to move offices has already been made. We need therefore the expert assistance of someone such as an architect or interior designer to advise us on the redesign of our premises. 

Melb PC has now adopted a strong policy of utilising the talents of its membership for such projects. I would be delighted to hear from any member with the appropriate experience and enthusiasm who would be prepared to donate his/her time for such a project. We would not expect such a volunteer to oversee the entire operation. At the moment, what we are really looking for is someone to advise, given the available space. 

February Monthly Meeting - BBS Flavour 

The Committee, in liaison with the redoubtable Ray Beatty, is seeking to broaden the format of our Monthly Meetings. Hence, the next meeting at the Pharmacy College will centre round using the BBS. The sysops promise a great show. Don't miss it! See you then and at the Waffle afterwards.
 
Reprinted from the Jan / Feb 1995 issue of PC Update, the magazine of Melbourne PC User Group, Australia