NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2008

Social Meeting

19th Nov. Members enjoyed a presentation by Paul Carr from the University Geology Department on fluorescent minerals. In the presentation Paul spoke about two mines in the USA, mainly the Franklyn Mine. He talked about various minerals that are only found in the area of these mines and displayed minerals from those mines. Under ordinary light there was nothing spectacular but under short wave and long wave light they showed magnificent colours.

Mineral Group Meeting

Sixteen members were present for a fun last meeting of the year. Members reported on their recent rain, hail, wind and snow visit to Oberon and purchases from the exhibition. For the identification exercise members identified twenty minerals from statements about each mineral. Noel presented a DVD of carvings, using watermelons and egg shells. Noel presented the medals, to the winners, for the JOHN LEE memorial  mineral display and the Photographic  competition. All members passed their final examination for 2008 and received a surprise visit from Hilly with seven of her students who gave each member a massage to relieve exam jitters. Twenty unique questions, set by Noel, were answered in varying degrees, with much fun had by all. Christmas freebies were supplied by Ann and Noel. The Mineral Group would like to thank Noel and Ann for their work and commitment throughout the year.

Business Meeting

• Dec 3rd -  Club floor to be cleaned and polished on 10th JANUARY,2009. Members who volunteered to do the job, John, Geoff, Jeff, Greg, Barry and Ken.
  
  
• The next ‘rock swap’ is on 22nd Feb, 2009 and Stuart Park has been booked for the event.
  
  
• A machinery and show case from Bob Harris of Knights Hill has been valued at $100 and abrasives from a lady at Nowra a further $100. Both have been purchased by the club.
  
  
• Geoff Irwin reported $3002.75 profit from club exhibition - up on last year. Keith Tyssen to review format for next year’s exhibition.
  
  
• It has been proposed that the club consider having garage sale at club rooms. Members to have private tables of their own - club not to be involved. Date for this event - Sunday 8th March, 2009. Anyone interested to have a table to contact Dorothy.
  
  
• Bill Roth to be ‘approved supervisor’ for cabs and silver work and Brigitte Pickett for jewellery.
  

Coming Events

Social Meeting
Christmas party 14th Dec – photos of yourself as a child to be handed in before 11am please.

Mineral Group
January – Stichtite --- Noel
February---- Mercury--- Keith
March----- Olivine---- John
April----Tin---- Peter
May---- Vivianite----Ann
June---- Magnetite----Geoff