Held Thursday 1 June at Holt Planetarium, Napier
The 142nd Annual General Meeting of the Branch was well attended and members afterwards enjoyed a wonderful presentation of the night sky by Gary Sparks in the Planetarium itself.
Lynne Trafford’s President’s Report was delivered and unanimously approved. Lynne thanked the year’s speakers, financial supporters, venue providers and council members and highlighted the Branch’s contribution to science promotion through the EIT Hawke’s Bay Regional Science and Technology Fair, Curious Minds Science Camp, school visits by speakers and HB Scientists on Air. She also noted the growth in membership over the past year and encouraged the recruitment of new members as well as continued support by current members.
Jenny Dee reported on the 2017 Curious Minds Science Camp. 161 students attended the three workshops run by GNS Science/East Coast Labs, Plant and Food Research and Murray Gosling (supported by Opus). Feedback has been very positive. Jenny acknowledged the speakers who gave talks at local schools. Professor Chris Battershill visited Napier Boys High School, Professor Peter Schwerdtfeger went to three schools and Professor Peter Dearden spoke at Taradale Intermediate School.
The Financial Report which had been circulated prior to the meeting was presented and unanimously approved. The meeting resolved to keep Annual Subscriptions at their current level. This is a very affordable amount and potential members are reminded to consider joining to receive direct newsletters and to show their support of Branch and Society activities.
Election of Council and Officers
The following were elected or re-elected:
- President – Lynne Trafford
- Immediate past-President – Dan Bloomer
- Vice President – Antony Steiner
- Treasurer – Jennifer Hartley
- Secretary – Kathleen Kozyniak
- Re-election to Council having completed a two year term – Jenny Dee, Michael Broadbent, Antony Steiner
- Council members continuing having completed only one year of a two year term – Jeff Reid, Stephen Swabey, John Warren, Jeff Cooke and Kathleen Kozyniak.
Special Item – Honorary Life Member
Michael Broadbent was elected an Honorary Life Member of the Branch as recommended by the Council. Lynne described Michael’s service to the Branch over the years. The motion was seconded by Jeff Reid and approved with widespread applause.