Minutes 2015
BBWN Meeting November 19, 2015
Meeting opened:7.11pm
Creative Writing Exercise supplied by Lorraine Proctor
Character trait sheet, cut outs of faces – allocate three faces above the characteristics. Switch A and C. Write about those people/personalities.
Welcome: Lara T, Jo D
Present: Cor R, Naomi D, Cass R, Keith O, Jo D, Mark B, Rodney W, Lara T, Lorraine P.
Apologies: Jenn F, Alex B, Maree W, Liz B, Chris M, Leah M
Matters arising from previous minutes:
Fundraising BBQ – October 31. $205 raised after expenses of just under $80 paid. 2 Pre-scribes sold.
Thanks to Lorraine, Naomi, Cass, Hilda, Cor for running this.
Reminder that memberships have increased to $30, concession currently $25.
Financial Report:
Opening balance October 1 - $2811.60
Withdrawals - $295 AGM speaker (Patricia Sykes), Writers Vic membership.
Deposits - $186.00 - Memberships
Closing balance October 31 - $2702.60
New business:
Creative Writing Exercise volunteers: 2016 creative writing roster was passed out and volunteers accepted. Roster not yet full so will be passed around again at January meeting to fill in remaining dates.
Christmas function – December Social Night. 3rd December, 7.30pm: Discussion about Christmas breakup and the need for approximate numbers; pay for own meal, but buy tapas from group funds. Lorraine R passed; Keith O seconded.
Fundraiser: Lorraine Lea Linen fundraiser; Naomi explained that Alex B is wanting to run a fundraiser for the group. Naomi had limited details so this was passed over until January meeting so that Alex can explain further.
Potential workshop structure adjustment – sharing of ideas/what people are working on and a critique activity. Discussion of ways we could add benefit to workshopping evenings with the discussion of creation of ideas for writing prompts/motivation/inspiration, as well as discussion of potential for critiquing outside pieces of writing that help everyone to see where editing can be more successful. Naomi expressed that rather than happening every workshop evening, this could happen only a few times (three) to see how it goes.
Rodney suggested people could bring along work that have read that has struck them as not quite right to be critiqued.
Lorraine suggested potentially get information from an editor re critique, etc. Cor to look into this further.
Pre-Scribe: bi-annually, instead of annually.
Discussion of what would be required to make this happen, bearing in mind publishing issues and the need for a dedicated committee, preferably an odd number. General agreement that bi-annual cycle to begin now, with the deadline for written pieces to be submitted to the committee for editing by December 2016, with the goal of having the completed Pre-scribe by AGM 2017.
Rodney made a very eloquent argument for this to go ahead.
Further discussion that fundraising needs to be happening in order to cover costs of this, and Naomi made suggestion of more BBQ fundraisers to help this.
Jo made the suggestion of running a writing competition and publishing winning pieces in one chapter, with Keith’s suggestion of adding on a $5 entry fee to this as a fundraising tool. Rodney raised concerns about the judging process – workload/process/guidelines that will need to be considered.
Marketing needs to be prominent.
From BAW BAW POETS:
Group has asked if we would be interested in participating with the planning/running of Ficifolia Poetry night.
Rodney outlined some details of the event - early week in February/Friday night.
Potential time slot for the group.
Festival has typically had a theme/members from the group have embraced the theme and written especially for the event.
Willing involvement of group quite definite. Keith passed, Rodney seconded.
Voices of Gippsland, Anglican Church – Judith St Mart (member) participating in this event.
Successes:
Rodney - Poem shortlisted for Journal 17 at launch due to a competition. The poem was created during one of the group’s creative writing exercises, set by Naomi Duff.
Lorraine – hit 40,000 words of her novel.
Cor – article accepted for submission and in editing stage.
Meeting closed: 8.10pm.
AGM MINUTES BBWN 15 October 2015 Meeting opened 19:12
WELCOME: Naomi Duff – President, welcomed everyone.
BUSINESS
PRESENT: Maree Wallace, Kathie Olden, Elizabeth Jacobsen, Mark Baptist, Cassie Reynolds, Corissa Rieschieck, Alex Blackwood, Jo Van de Burgt, Jennifer Fell, Naomi Duff, Barbara Erskine (11)
APOLOGIES: David Mansfield, Geraldine Burrows, Leah Mether, Keith Osborne, June Connell, Chris Mallon, Lorraine Proctor, Carol Campbell, Rodney Williams,
MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS AGM: An abbreviated version read by Naomi Duff AND APPROVED. Moved by Kathie Olden. Seconded by Cassie Reynolds.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Summary of year’s events, including social nights, ongoing critique group and Rodney Williams’ book launch. Thanks given to the current committee for all their hard work. Moved by Corissa Rieschieck. Seconded by Jennifer Fell.
TREASURER’S REPORT: Balance at end of 2013-2014 year - $3187.85 cents. Moved Alex Blackwood , Seconded by Jennifer Fell.
Income for the 2014-2015 year: 2941.20, Expenses $3170.45 Loss of 376.25 cents. Moved by Alex Blackwood, Seconded by Kathie Olden.
OTHER BUSINESS
Writers Victoria Membership approval to be paid up for the next two years (to save hassle) Moved by Jennifer Fell, Seconded by Corissa Rieschieck.
Thanks to Geraldine Burrows (who is currently in Frankfurt at the Book Fair) for paying five years membership in advance – wonderful support for our group.
ALL POSITIONS WERE MADE VACANT
THE NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE WAS WARMLY WELCOMED AND THE MEETING RECOMMENCED
NEW BUSINESS
The previous committee was thanked for their hard work.
Regular meeting re-opened.
Membership fees are due and will be $30 full fee and $15 concession fee annually.
A fundraising BBQ is being held on 31 October 2015. Weekend before the long weekend.
Following changes to the executive committee of the BBWN, signatories at Bank must be updated.
President Naomi Duff to remain as signatory.
Secretary Corissa Rieschieck and Treasurer Cassie Reynolds to be added as signatories.
Previous Secretary Jennifer Fell, previous Treasurer Alex Blackwood and previous Vice-President David Mansfield to be removed from bank account as signatories.
Meeting closed 19:36
BBWN Meeting September 17, 2015
Creative Writing Exercise supplied by Naomi Duff
Welcome: Meeting Opened: 7:57
Present: Brian G, Lorraine P, Naomi D, Alex B, Jennifer F, Cass R, Cor R,
Apologies: Carol C, Leah M, Jenni S, June C, David M, Chris M, Kathie O, Judith St M, Rodney W
Matters arising from Previous Minutes:
Memoir Workshop on September 27 – Totally booked out J Could those attending please arrive fifteen minutes early to process your payment and to help with setting up.
Financial Report: Opening Balance 1 August 2015 - $2068.45
Withdrawals $200.00 August Workshop
Deposits $750.00 Writers Vic Grant
Closing Balance 31 August 2015 $3158.45
Fundraising options – Naomi detailed fundraising options available at the Warragul Kiosk on Palmerston St Warragul and at Warragul Woolworths running a sausage BBQ. Three people are needed to run a bbq – 31 October was the date selected– Would you like to help with this? Hours required would be 9am – 1pm. Pre-Scribe books would also be sold. Consider this event as PR for our group as well as needed fundraising. Naomi, Alex B, Lorraine and Cassie volunteered as possible helpers. Please email the secretary if you can help. Cassie will also investigate the food handling business.
AGM is next month: Nomination forms are available. To reduce the workload of the secretary, we considered ways to split the events part of that job from the secretary duties. It was suggested we add events to the Vice President position. If you are interested in running for a position, email the secretary and attend the AGM.
Positions available next year are: President, Vice-President (Events Coordinator), Treasurer-
Memberships are payable next month: $30 per member $25 concession
AGM Speaker: Patricia Sykes, poet, author of four poetry books, her latest is Abbotsford Mysteries.
Regarding the outstanding monies owed to the group by Paul De Graaf, it was moved that this deficit be finalised in the end of year accounts as a bad debt. It was moved that he should never under any circumstances be permitted to attend any BBWN event or meeting in the future. Moved Naomi D, Seconded Cor R.
Meeting Closed 8:26pm
BBWN Meeting Minutes July 16
Creative Writing Exercise: David Mansfield even though he was absent gave us an exercise inspired by his son’s story prompts.
Welcome! Meeting opened: 19:40
Present: Naomi D, Alex B, Ann S, Cor R, Cass R, Chris M, Kathie O, Rodney W.
Apologies: Keith O, Carol C, Naomi D (lateness), Leah M, David M, Lorraine P
Matters arising from previous minutes? Nil.
Kilmore Poets Breakfast – Report – The Lisa Demos Prize was awarded to Ursalina Boran in Kilmore, on June 27th. Ursalina was a worthy winner.
Saturday 1 August is the Garfield’s ‘Bush Poets Arvo’
Venue: Garfield Picture Theatre; Location: Main Street, Garfield; Time: 1.00pm – 3.30pm
Entry: Adults $5, children free Registrations: 5629 2620
Next BBWN meeting in August 20th will feature Nansi Kunze running a workshop on writing great characters – starting at 7:30 – please could three people bring something for supper? Wonderful people volunteered – thank you! - the supper will be awesome.
Regional Writing Grant has been approved: we are hosting a Memoir Writing Workshop with Maria Tumarkin on Sunday, September 27th. There will be a $25 cost for members, $40 for non-members. More details to come. Let Jennifer know now if you are planning to come. Starts at 10:00 – 15:30. Only 18 people can come and it is open to the public so first people to put their names down, can come. I have those names down that mentioned at the meeting they would like to come.
Financial Report: Closing bank balance at 31/05/15 $2591.05
Deposits Membership from Chris and Donation: 15. Withdrawals Nil. Closing Balance as at 30/6/15 $2606.05
Treasurer moved, seconded by Naomi D.
Don’t forget to put a donation into the little train if you can. Thanks!
Don’t forget to check the bbwn.weebly website News/Updates page for competition info.
Successes: Rodney shared copies of his latest book of poetry, In this dusty rear-view Mirror. Congratulations Rodney!
Meeting closed 19:59
BBWN Meeting Minutes June 18
Creative Writing Exercise: Jennifer Fell
Welcome: New member Anne!
Meeting opened:19:41
Present: Carol C, Naomi D, Chris M, Alex B, Cassie R, Kathie O, Anne, Keith O, Jenni S, Tess, Gail, June C, Jennifer F
Apologies: David M, Leah M, Rodney W, Cor R, Lorraine P,
Matters arising from previous minutes? Nil
Kilmore Poets Breakfast – weekend of June 27, 28th Four of us are going to present the Lisa Demos prize – next Saturday
Regional Writing Grant has been applied for but they have had some problem securing a tutor: ideas: short story: memoir – Paul Mitchell suggested as possible (will look into)
Rodney Williams’ book launch – wonderful! Congratulations to Rodney on putting together such a successful night.
FINANCIAL REPORT:
Closing bank balance as at 30/04/15 $2,573.55
Deposits from 1 May to 31 May 2015: 5/21/2015 Pre scribe sales 20, 5/25/2015 May meeting donation 2.5, 5/25/2015 Membership (Mark) 7.5 Total 30
Withdrawals from 1 May to 31 May 2015: 4/20/2015 Quiz Prize money (Lorraine) 12.5 Total 12.5
Closing bank balance as at 31/05/15 $2,591.05
Moved AB, Seconded JF
New business:
From BAW BAW POETS:
The Winter Poetry Dinner is on Friday 19 June at 7pm. Bookings are going well and there are still seats available so please book at The Red Fox Gallery Cafe. Let's jam it to the rafters!
Saturday 1 August
Garfield’s ‘Bush Poets Arvo’
As part of Garfield’s Heritage Winterfest, the newly renovated Garfield Picture Theatre is holding a Bush Poets Arvo. Come along, see the historic theatre and be entertained on a winter’s afternoon. If you would like to recite bush poetry, please register beforehand. Music will be provided in the interval and food will be available in the bakery next door. This is a family friendly event.
Venue: Garfield Picture Theatre
Location: Main Street, Garfield
Time: 1.00pm – 3.30pm
Entry: Adults $5, children free
Registrations: 5629 2620
Emails from Boroondarra Comp – free entry – emailed out today
Naomi Duff advised that her daughter has been accepted into the World Challenge Peru and she will be fundraising to send Brytnie to Peru. Watch out for fundraising opportunities!
Successes: Judith St Mart – sent her book into competition four gospels into one, chronological order and unlike those because the story has merged, entered into a Christian publisher and submitted! June read a poem out last week at premiere called 10 stories of single mothers with Jenny Macklin – her poem was called Newstart – and read it at the Kino theatre to around 150 people! Nice work June!
Tomorrow night Naomi is going to Winter Night Market – and will be selling Pre-Scribe – 4-10pm.
Watch out for the drumming! Thanks to Cassie and Keith!
Meeting closed for Research Skills Workshop – Thanks Kathie!
19:53 Meeting closed
BBWN Meeting Minutes May 21st
Thanks to Cassie Reynolds for the Creative Writing Exercise - see the Writing Activity Tab above on this website for more info.
BBWN Meeting Minutes May 21st
Creative Writing Exercise: Cassie Reynolds – Write on the topic: to be done in reverse is to or what would the world be like if we were all blind.
Welcome: New members: Mark
Meeting opened:19:28
Present: Alex B, David M, Jennifer F, Matt, Naomi D, Sharen C, Cassie R, Kathie O, Mark, Corissa R,
Apologies: Lorraine P, Rodney W, Leah M, Carol C, Keith O
Matters arising from previous minutes:
Kilmore Poets Breakfast – takes place on the weekend of June 26, 27, 28th . We have been invited to the Breakfast and should let them know how many people will attend by next Friday, May 28th. They are very happy to host us and give us a prize. Info will be emailed.
FINANCIAL REPORT: From 31 February to 31 March, 2015, opening balance: $2515.40, Income: $53, Closing balance: $2569.40; From 31 March to 30 April, 2015, opening balance: $2569.40, Income: Membership (x3) + Can $ = $66.55, Debits $62.50 (SG cheque and Quiz $) = $2573.55.
Moved: Alex B, Seconded: David M.
Membership Increase: Due to increasing costs, increasing the membership was proposed from $20 to $30 for full members and concession from $15 to $25. No dissent. Moved: Naomi D, Seconded: Sharen C and Corissa R.
Concession entitlement will be amended to include members include under 18.
We are into the half price membership time (from now until October AGM).
Thanks for donating your small change to “I think I can” Train!
Regional Writing Group Grant from Writers Vic – up to $750 available for literary activities – what could we do with it? Topics suggested include a workshop day: characters or plot. Jennifer will investigate. Also to look into: Book in a Day? Workshop.
Thanks everyone for taking a flyer to promote our upcoming Events: Research Workshop with Kathie Olden. That is our next meeting June 18.
Nansi Kunze topic? Characters and Plot
Rodney Williams – Book Launch – In that dusty rear view mirror: 55 poems, Town and Country Gallery, June 12th, 7pm.
Successes: Jennifer brought the amazing hand crafted wooden pen that she received as the Gippsland prize at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival.
Meeting closed: 19: 45
BBWN Meeting Minutes March 19th
Thanks to Naomi Duff for the creative writing exercise! (See Writing Activity Tab above on this website for more info).
Meeting commenced 19:38
Naomi welcomed everyone to the meeting especially new member, Sharen.
Present: Tom M, Kathie O, Cassie R, Rodney W, Sharen C, Naomi D, Jennifer F, (8)
Apologies: David Mansfield, Judith St Mart, Carol Campbell, Corissa Reischieck, Alex Blackwood, Leah Mether, Keith Osborne, Lorraine Proctor (9)
Matters arising from previous minutes? Nil.
FINANCIAL REPORT: Opening balance 31/1/2105 $2298.40, Deposits and credits $217 (PreScribe sales, Memberships x2, Jigsaw Donation, Quiz), Withdrawals nil. Closing balance as at 28/02/15 $2515.40. Prepared by the Treasurer, Presented and moved by the Secretary, seconded by Rodney W.
Publicity: Another article in the Gazette – Printed the week of 3/3/15 with details and pic of our February author talk, and seen by Sharen which brought her to our meeting tonight!! We should keep this going. To help with future publicity, please take flyers and brochures to stick up in places where interested people might see them.
Future speaker topics: Scot Gardner and Nansi Kunze: topics? Workshop topics? Think on these – what do you want to learn and tell Jennifer.
Critique group: running well. If you would like to join or know more about this, see the secretary
Quiz Results: Winners Lorraine Proctor and Rodney Williams – Due to Lorraine being an apology, prize giving will be deferred until the next meeting.
Arts Market stallholders: Thanks to Sharen Leeah, and Cassie Reynolds who will help out at the last Arts Market for the year.
Successes: Geraldine Burrowes, poet and past BBWN member was shortlisted for the Tom Collins Poetry prize in WA; Tom M has self-published a novel: The Beaten Zone, available on Kindle and Createspace. Rodney and Jennifer have each had a haiku accepted for the next edition of online Japanese poetry journal, ahundredgourds.com. Congratulations to everyone!
New business: ‘I think I can’ moneybox train has been supplied by Rodney Williams to collect small coin contributions to put towards running our group. Thank you, Rodney. Please add your spare change to this little train when you come to meetings.
Better is Peace: Anzac centenary event coming to WGAC in April.
Rodney detailed the upcoming joint project for the ANZAC centenary – Better is peace. A joint collaboration between the West Gippsland Chorale, Off the Leash theatre and the Warragul Municipal Band. Performances will take place Friday April 24th and Sunday April 26th. Check local guides for more info. As Rodney described, there will be a significant choral presentation and re-enactments, and material has been derived from letters sent by soldiers. Rodney has also got a gig reading his own poem, At the Nek, and another by a poet called Wilfred Owen. (!)
20:00 Meeting closed for Kathie’s BookWell presenation, which was just thoroughly excellent. Thank you Kathie! It was wonderful.
February Meeting Minutes February 19, 2015 @ Drouin Library Meeting Opened 19:06
Welcome new members Tom and Carissa!
Present: Naomi Duff, Tom Mykytiuk, Corissa Reischchiek, Keith Osborne, Carol Campbell, Kathie Olden, Alexandra Blackwood, David Mansfield, Cassie Reynolds, Leah Mether, Jennifer Fell (10)
Apologies: Robyn Wade, Lorraine Proctor, Rodney Williams (lateness)
Matters arising from Previous Minutes: Paul de Graaf has not returned the group’s money. On January 16, 2015, an apology was posted on the group’s Facebook site, as requested by Paul. As no response was received, we doubted Paul was able to see the apology, so a letter was sent to him on February 6 with a printscreen copy of the apology. Paul posted in the Facebook group at 12:04 am on 19th February, 2015, the following: “Hi Jennifer Fell I am still waiting patiently for things to happen re the apology that was to have happened. Can you tell me when this will occur as I want this whole issue dealt with....Kind Regards Paul De Graaf.”
A copy was emailed to him on the day of the meeting by the secretary. (Other members also contacted Paul to let him know the apology was visible.)
Jennifer moved that the handling of this matter be removed from the main meeting business to allow the group to concentrate on writing. From now on, this matter will be handled by the executive committee. Seconded by Kathie Olden.
Discussion ensued and the group arrived at the following decisions approved by unanimous consent. The network welcomes Paul to repay the group’s money at the earliest time. The group will not report this matter to a further authority, however until the funds have been returned to the group, Paul’s membership (including all rights of membership such as Facebook and web access) are to be suspended. The secretary will notify Paul in writing of the group’s decision.
Treasury Report: Bank Statement at 31 Dec 2014 $2258.47, income consisted of 1 x Memberships, 9 x book quiz $2, 2 x Prescribe sales tallying to $58 coming in, Treasurer expenses of $18.07, leaving a closing balance at 31 Jan 2015 at $2298.40. Seconded David Mansfield.
Ficifolia Poetry Night: a great night, extremely enjoyable as always. A respectable turnout in spite of the rain. Poetry was great! Personally I was pleased to see so many locals getting up and performing thanks no doubt to the Baw Baw Poets Group. Thanks to the BBPG and Bill Frew for having us. We sold $55 worth of Pre-Scribes!
Writers Café this Saturday: Olive Lyon running. Held at the Station Gallery in Yarragon from 10:30
Arts Market this Saturday – volunteers? People seem busy, so let’s skip it for this month and review next month. March will be the last market so it would be good to have a table there though it does clash with…
Rodney’s Poetry Workshop at 10-11, 21st March, at Warragul Library. Call Warragul Library for bookings! There is Poetry open Mic straight afterwards, starting at 11.
Successes: Jennifer and Rodney have had haiku published in Windfall #3. Corissa Rieschiek (2nd)and Naomi Duff (3rd) received prizes in the Open Mic at the Poetry Night. Keith Osborne recited his superb poem ‘Out of Alice’ that he performed at the Poetry Night.
Meeting closed for speakers 19:44
JANUARY 2015 Meeting opened 19:38.
In the President’s absence, David opened the meeting and welcomed everyone including new member Linda Rowley. Welcome Linda! We are glad you found our group and very happy you could attend our meeting.
Present: Linda Rowley, Jennifer Fell, Kathie Olden, Robyn Wade, Carol Campbell, Lorraine Proctor, David Mansfield, Rodney Williams. (8)
Apologies: Naomi Duff, Leah Mether, Judith St Mart
Alex Blackwood led the Creative Writing Exercise. Alex elicited five words from the group that called to mind man-made things: satellite, concrete, galvanised, artificial, toilet and then instructed us that we were to write about nature using all those five words.
Time set for this was brief. The results were varied and unexpected. It is always a pleasure to see a good activity work (especially when there may have been some initial doubts). What was also pleasing was that every single person there shared what they came up with. Thanks everyone for sharing and thanks Alex for this exercise. [These writing activities are now being posted on our website under Writing Activities. Although it is no substitute for doing the exercise in the group and hearing what comes out, anyone who cannot attend a meeting now does not have to miss out on the exercise.]
BUSINESS
Matters arising from Previous Minutes:
Letter sent to Paul de Graaf. The secretary read the letter of November 21, 2014 sent to Paul de Graaf requesting repayment of his debt to the BBWN with details of the payment plan and due date.
Email response was received from Paul de Graaf on December 3, 2014. Comments following in quotation marks quote directly from this email. The secretary read the email response from Paul out to the group. Paul advised “I would forward the money to the treasurer in coming days, on the proviso that an apology for the way I was treated in the AGM [be given].” Paul also noted concerns: “I also note that there has been no follow up of the debt “ owed to the group “regarding payments made … for sales of Prescribe books sold at Market.” Paul also expressed the wish: “I hope this can be resolved at the uppermost earliest convenience so that the group can move on...”
Robyn Wade reported that Paul had told her on the day of the meeting that he will pay the money if the President apologises to him.
Lengthy discussion followed involving the members present regarding further steps in this matter. As a group, it was clear that the network regrets the grievance that Paul has been made to feel since the events at the AGM in October and shares with Paul the hope that this can be resolved at the earliest convenience. Rodney moved that we write to Paul a second time, to acknowledge and appreciate his grievances, while at the same time noting that as the President is an apology for the meeting, Paul’s request for an apology is difficult to act upon at this time. The President will be briefed as to the group’s discussion. This motion was approved by all present.
Alex Blackwood moved that the group apologise to Paul to recognise and regret how our actions as a group have made him feel. If Paul has any issues beyond this, he can take it up with the relevant person. Seconded by Jennifer Fell.
The group looks forward to receiving his payment by January 18th.
Regarding Paul’s concerns in his email regarding money for PreScribe Arts Market sales that was not passed on to the Treasury, it was noted that this matter was dealt with during the November meeting under Statement of Financial Position prepared by David Mansfield. The matter has been investigated and was resolved in November.
Correspondence:
Lisa Demos: the passing of former member and past President, Lisa Demos was noted. A condolence card and flowers were delivered to the Drouin Bakery after Christmas. Thanks to Alex and Naomi for organising this. We also discussed the possibility if acceptable to her family and to the Kilmore Poet’s Breakfast organisers to offer a prize (for most enthusiastic poet for instance) in honour of Lisa. The exec will make further enquiries to this. The idea of a prize was agreed in principle by all in attendance.
Book rcvd from Geraldine Burrowes and recent email – Geraldine sent a book written and signed by her poetry mentor, Claire Gaskin. Thank you Geraldine.
Geraldine also sent an email expressing her appreciation and enduring friendship for the BBWN and advising of a recent offer to have a body of work published. Congratulations Geraldine!
The network received an email from Shear Outback with details of a free short story competition – details are on the website. In future, the secretary will try and add all such emails to the News/updates page and/or Facebook page.
TREASURER’S REPORT
Statement balance as at end of December 2014, $2258.47
Money received for PreScribes, memberships, Summer Book Quiz totals $350. Money out totals $595.50. (GIO Insurance, Consumer Affairs x2, Flowers for LD, ND Expenses)
Alex submitted her expenses for approval. $18.07 Moved Rodney, Seconded Carol.
Treasurer moved that Treasury Report be accepted, seconded by David Mansfield.
MEMBERSHIP – pls pay your memberships to Alex to keep our group running! (Annual costs are insurance $423.50 and Consumer Affairs $53 = so to ‘break even’ we need roughly 25 memberships @20… only about 15 so far). Carol asked how many members we have. Secretary mentioned that exact number is uncertain but will check and report back. (Update: we have exactly 15 as at 16/1/15)
PRE-SCRIBE SALES REPORT – Warragul Arts Market – 6 more copies of PS5 sold – thanks to the excellent sales team of Robyn Wade and Naomi Duff.
David and Alex volunteered to run the stall at the Arts Market (interspersed with hairdressing obligations). Thanks David and Alex!
We are also planning to sell Pre-Scribe 5 at the Ficifolia Poetry Night, no confirmation as of yet. The Ficifolia Festival runs from 12-15 Feb, we will check when the Poetry Night actually is and advise.
We have also heard that Special Arrangements by Bill Frew (his radio show which can be heard on 3BBRFM on Wednesday mornings) has been arranged for the stage by member Jeannie Haughton and will be read at the Old Drouin Butter Factory on Sunday 8 Feb at 2pm.
SELLING BOOK QUIZ TO RAISE MONEY – Thank you to everyone who has bought a quiz (just had the first copy back!) 29 copies sold so far, quizzes due back to Jennifer by Feb 28, 2015.
Emailing Critique Group: started in January with test run - see Jennifer if interested – email a story of poem on the first Wednesday of the month, the pieces get emailed around and then everyone writes feedback by the third Wednesday. The secretary then forwards the feedback to everybody. February stories are due Wednesday February 4th!
2015 Writing Goals: David mentioned this again. In February, we will revisit this. In the meantime, think about a writing goal you would like to achieve for the coming year.
2015 PLANNING – The program is set for this year. Next month: Guest Authors – Leanne Davidson and Michelle Path will come to our meeting. Michelle has recently published a children’s picture book: Xalien the Purple Alien and has another title in that series about to be published. Leanne is a much published children’s author of Quizzical as well as several other titles.
NEW BUSINESS: Kathie advised that March 21st is World Wide Poetry Day. The library is hoping to run a workshop and ther activities (Poem in your pocket).
Lorraine noted that the network used to have a can for gold coin donations and would it not be a good idea to reintroduce this. Agreed by Jennifer, Rodney volunteered to get a new can for us. And Alex will look after the can and bring it to the meetings. Thanks everyone!
BookWell Presentation is postponed until March due to the meeting overrunning the time.
SUPPER
Meeting closed: 20:43
Meeting opened:7.11pm
Creative Writing Exercise supplied by Lorraine Proctor
Character trait sheet, cut outs of faces – allocate three faces above the characteristics. Switch A and C. Write about those people/personalities.
Welcome: Lara T, Jo D
Present: Cor R, Naomi D, Cass R, Keith O, Jo D, Mark B, Rodney W, Lara T, Lorraine P.
Apologies: Jenn F, Alex B, Maree W, Liz B, Chris M, Leah M
Matters arising from previous minutes:
Fundraising BBQ – October 31. $205 raised after expenses of just under $80 paid. 2 Pre-scribes sold.
Thanks to Lorraine, Naomi, Cass, Hilda, Cor for running this.
Reminder that memberships have increased to $30, concession currently $25.
Financial Report:
Opening balance October 1 - $2811.60
Withdrawals - $295 AGM speaker (Patricia Sykes), Writers Vic membership.
Deposits - $186.00 - Memberships
Closing balance October 31 - $2702.60
New business:
Creative Writing Exercise volunteers: 2016 creative writing roster was passed out and volunteers accepted. Roster not yet full so will be passed around again at January meeting to fill in remaining dates.
Christmas function – December Social Night. 3rd December, 7.30pm: Discussion about Christmas breakup and the need for approximate numbers; pay for own meal, but buy tapas from group funds. Lorraine R passed; Keith O seconded.
Fundraiser: Lorraine Lea Linen fundraiser; Naomi explained that Alex B is wanting to run a fundraiser for the group. Naomi had limited details so this was passed over until January meeting so that Alex can explain further.
Potential workshop structure adjustment – sharing of ideas/what people are working on and a critique activity. Discussion of ways we could add benefit to workshopping evenings with the discussion of creation of ideas for writing prompts/motivation/inspiration, as well as discussion of potential for critiquing outside pieces of writing that help everyone to see where editing can be more successful. Naomi expressed that rather than happening every workshop evening, this could happen only a few times (three) to see how it goes.
Rodney suggested people could bring along work that have read that has struck them as not quite right to be critiqued.
Lorraine suggested potentially get information from an editor re critique, etc. Cor to look into this further.
Pre-Scribe: bi-annually, instead of annually.
Discussion of what would be required to make this happen, bearing in mind publishing issues and the need for a dedicated committee, preferably an odd number. General agreement that bi-annual cycle to begin now, with the deadline for written pieces to be submitted to the committee for editing by December 2016, with the goal of having the completed Pre-scribe by AGM 2017.
Rodney made a very eloquent argument for this to go ahead.
Further discussion that fundraising needs to be happening in order to cover costs of this, and Naomi made suggestion of more BBQ fundraisers to help this.
Jo made the suggestion of running a writing competition and publishing winning pieces in one chapter, with Keith’s suggestion of adding on a $5 entry fee to this as a fundraising tool. Rodney raised concerns about the judging process – workload/process/guidelines that will need to be considered.
Marketing needs to be prominent.
From BAW BAW POETS:
Group has asked if we would be interested in participating with the planning/running of Ficifolia Poetry night.
Rodney outlined some details of the event - early week in February/Friday night.
Potential time slot for the group.
Festival has typically had a theme/members from the group have embraced the theme and written especially for the event.
Willing involvement of group quite definite. Keith passed, Rodney seconded.
Voices of Gippsland, Anglican Church – Judith St Mart (member) participating in this event.
Successes:
Rodney - Poem shortlisted for Journal 17 at launch due to a competition. The poem was created during one of the group’s creative writing exercises, set by Naomi Duff.
Lorraine – hit 40,000 words of her novel.
Cor – article accepted for submission and in editing stage.
Meeting closed: 8.10pm.
AGM MINUTES BBWN 15 October 2015 Meeting opened 19:12
WELCOME: Naomi Duff – President, welcomed everyone.
BUSINESS
PRESENT: Maree Wallace, Kathie Olden, Elizabeth Jacobsen, Mark Baptist, Cassie Reynolds, Corissa Rieschieck, Alex Blackwood, Jo Van de Burgt, Jennifer Fell, Naomi Duff, Barbara Erskine (11)
APOLOGIES: David Mansfield, Geraldine Burrows, Leah Mether, Keith Osborne, June Connell, Chris Mallon, Lorraine Proctor, Carol Campbell, Rodney Williams,
MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS AGM: An abbreviated version read by Naomi Duff AND APPROVED. Moved by Kathie Olden. Seconded by Cassie Reynolds.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Summary of year’s events, including social nights, ongoing critique group and Rodney Williams’ book launch. Thanks given to the current committee for all their hard work. Moved by Corissa Rieschieck. Seconded by Jennifer Fell.
TREASURER’S REPORT: Balance at end of 2013-2014 year - $3187.85 cents. Moved Alex Blackwood , Seconded by Jennifer Fell.
Income for the 2014-2015 year: 2941.20, Expenses $3170.45 Loss of 376.25 cents. Moved by Alex Blackwood, Seconded by Kathie Olden.
OTHER BUSINESS
Writers Victoria Membership approval to be paid up for the next two years (to save hassle) Moved by Jennifer Fell, Seconded by Corissa Rieschieck.
Thanks to Geraldine Burrows (who is currently in Frankfurt at the Book Fair) for paying five years membership in advance – wonderful support for our group.
ALL POSITIONS WERE MADE VACANT
- Standing orders were suspended.
- Kathie Olden ran election proceedings.
- Nominations for President were requested:
- Naomi Duff was nominated by Jennifer Fell and seconded by Corissa Rieschieck. Verbal acceptance was given by Naomi Duff.
- Nominations for Secretary were requested:
- Corissa Rieschieck was nominated by Jennifer Fell and seconded by Alex Blackwood.
- Nominations for Treasurer were requested:
- Cassie Reynolds was nominated by Jennifer Fell and seconded by Corissa Rieschieck.
- Nominations for Vice President were requested:
- Kathie Olden made her potential availability to accept this position known, however confirmation to come.
- The new executive committee was welcomed warmly by those assembled
- Naomi Duff resumed the running of the General Meeting.
THE NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE WAS WARMLY WELCOMED AND THE MEETING RECOMMENCED
NEW BUSINESS
The previous committee was thanked for their hard work.
Regular meeting re-opened.
Membership fees are due and will be $30 full fee and $15 concession fee annually.
A fundraising BBQ is being held on 31 October 2015. Weekend before the long weekend.
Following changes to the executive committee of the BBWN, signatories at Bank must be updated.
President Naomi Duff to remain as signatory.
Secretary Corissa Rieschieck and Treasurer Cassie Reynolds to be added as signatories.
Previous Secretary Jennifer Fell, previous Treasurer Alex Blackwood and previous Vice-President David Mansfield to be removed from bank account as signatories.
Meeting closed 19:36
BBWN Meeting September 17, 2015
Creative Writing Exercise supplied by Naomi Duff
Welcome: Meeting Opened: 7:57
Present: Brian G, Lorraine P, Naomi D, Alex B, Jennifer F, Cass R, Cor R,
Apologies: Carol C, Leah M, Jenni S, June C, David M, Chris M, Kathie O, Judith St M, Rodney W
Matters arising from Previous Minutes:
Memoir Workshop on September 27 – Totally booked out J Could those attending please arrive fifteen minutes early to process your payment and to help with setting up.
Financial Report: Opening Balance 1 August 2015 - $2068.45
Withdrawals $200.00 August Workshop
Deposits $750.00 Writers Vic Grant
Closing Balance 31 August 2015 $3158.45
Fundraising options – Naomi detailed fundraising options available at the Warragul Kiosk on Palmerston St Warragul and at Warragul Woolworths running a sausage BBQ. Three people are needed to run a bbq – 31 October was the date selected– Would you like to help with this? Hours required would be 9am – 1pm. Pre-Scribe books would also be sold. Consider this event as PR for our group as well as needed fundraising. Naomi, Alex B, Lorraine and Cassie volunteered as possible helpers. Please email the secretary if you can help. Cassie will also investigate the food handling business.
AGM is next month: Nomination forms are available. To reduce the workload of the secretary, we considered ways to split the events part of that job from the secretary duties. It was suggested we add events to the Vice President position. If you are interested in running for a position, email the secretary and attend the AGM.
Positions available next year are: President, Vice-President (Events Coordinator), Treasurer-
Memberships are payable next month: $30 per member $25 concession
AGM Speaker: Patricia Sykes, poet, author of four poetry books, her latest is Abbotsford Mysteries.
Regarding the outstanding monies owed to the group by Paul De Graaf, it was moved that this deficit be finalised in the end of year accounts as a bad debt. It was moved that he should never under any circumstances be permitted to attend any BBWN event or meeting in the future. Moved Naomi D, Seconded Cor R.
Meeting Closed 8:26pm
BBWN Meeting Minutes July 16
Creative Writing Exercise: David Mansfield even though he was absent gave us an exercise inspired by his son’s story prompts.
Welcome! Meeting opened: 19:40
Present: Naomi D, Alex B, Ann S, Cor R, Cass R, Chris M, Kathie O, Rodney W.
Apologies: Keith O, Carol C, Naomi D (lateness), Leah M, David M, Lorraine P
Matters arising from previous minutes? Nil.
Kilmore Poets Breakfast – Report – The Lisa Demos Prize was awarded to Ursalina Boran in Kilmore, on June 27th. Ursalina was a worthy winner.
Saturday 1 August is the Garfield’s ‘Bush Poets Arvo’
Venue: Garfield Picture Theatre; Location: Main Street, Garfield; Time: 1.00pm – 3.30pm
Entry: Adults $5, children free Registrations: 5629 2620
Next BBWN meeting in August 20th will feature Nansi Kunze running a workshop on writing great characters – starting at 7:30 – please could three people bring something for supper? Wonderful people volunteered – thank you! - the supper will be awesome.
Regional Writing Grant has been approved: we are hosting a Memoir Writing Workshop with Maria Tumarkin on Sunday, September 27th. There will be a $25 cost for members, $40 for non-members. More details to come. Let Jennifer know now if you are planning to come. Starts at 10:00 – 15:30. Only 18 people can come and it is open to the public so first people to put their names down, can come. I have those names down that mentioned at the meeting they would like to come.
Financial Report: Closing bank balance at 31/05/15 $2591.05
Deposits Membership from Chris and Donation: 15. Withdrawals Nil. Closing Balance as at 30/6/15 $2606.05
Treasurer moved, seconded by Naomi D.
Don’t forget to put a donation into the little train if you can. Thanks!
Don’t forget to check the bbwn.weebly website News/Updates page for competition info.
Successes: Rodney shared copies of his latest book of poetry, In this dusty rear-view Mirror. Congratulations Rodney!
Meeting closed 19:59
BBWN Meeting Minutes June 18
Creative Writing Exercise: Jennifer Fell
Welcome: New member Anne!
Meeting opened:19:41
Present: Carol C, Naomi D, Chris M, Alex B, Cassie R, Kathie O, Anne, Keith O, Jenni S, Tess, Gail, June C, Jennifer F
Apologies: David M, Leah M, Rodney W, Cor R, Lorraine P,
Matters arising from previous minutes? Nil
Kilmore Poets Breakfast – weekend of June 27, 28th Four of us are going to present the Lisa Demos prize – next Saturday
Regional Writing Grant has been applied for but they have had some problem securing a tutor: ideas: short story: memoir – Paul Mitchell suggested as possible (will look into)
Rodney Williams’ book launch – wonderful! Congratulations to Rodney on putting together such a successful night.
FINANCIAL REPORT:
Closing bank balance as at 30/04/15 $2,573.55
Deposits from 1 May to 31 May 2015: 5/21/2015 Pre scribe sales 20, 5/25/2015 May meeting donation 2.5, 5/25/2015 Membership (Mark) 7.5 Total 30
Withdrawals from 1 May to 31 May 2015: 4/20/2015 Quiz Prize money (Lorraine) 12.5 Total 12.5
Closing bank balance as at 31/05/15 $2,591.05
Moved AB, Seconded JF
New business:
From BAW BAW POETS:
The Winter Poetry Dinner is on Friday 19 June at 7pm. Bookings are going well and there are still seats available so please book at The Red Fox Gallery Cafe. Let's jam it to the rafters!
Saturday 1 August
Garfield’s ‘Bush Poets Arvo’
As part of Garfield’s Heritage Winterfest, the newly renovated Garfield Picture Theatre is holding a Bush Poets Arvo. Come along, see the historic theatre and be entertained on a winter’s afternoon. If you would like to recite bush poetry, please register beforehand. Music will be provided in the interval and food will be available in the bakery next door. This is a family friendly event.
Venue: Garfield Picture Theatre
Location: Main Street, Garfield
Time: 1.00pm – 3.30pm
Entry: Adults $5, children free
Registrations: 5629 2620
Emails from Boroondarra Comp – free entry – emailed out today
Naomi Duff advised that her daughter has been accepted into the World Challenge Peru and she will be fundraising to send Brytnie to Peru. Watch out for fundraising opportunities!
Successes: Judith St Mart – sent her book into competition four gospels into one, chronological order and unlike those because the story has merged, entered into a Christian publisher and submitted! June read a poem out last week at premiere called 10 stories of single mothers with Jenny Macklin – her poem was called Newstart – and read it at the Kino theatre to around 150 people! Nice work June!
Tomorrow night Naomi is going to Winter Night Market – and will be selling Pre-Scribe – 4-10pm.
Watch out for the drumming! Thanks to Cassie and Keith!
Meeting closed for Research Skills Workshop – Thanks Kathie!
19:53 Meeting closed
BBWN Meeting Minutes May 21st
Thanks to Cassie Reynolds for the Creative Writing Exercise - see the Writing Activity Tab above on this website for more info.
BBWN Meeting Minutes May 21st
Creative Writing Exercise: Cassie Reynolds – Write on the topic: to be done in reverse is to or what would the world be like if we were all blind.
Welcome: New members: Mark
Meeting opened:19:28
Present: Alex B, David M, Jennifer F, Matt, Naomi D, Sharen C, Cassie R, Kathie O, Mark, Corissa R,
Apologies: Lorraine P, Rodney W, Leah M, Carol C, Keith O
Matters arising from previous minutes:
Kilmore Poets Breakfast – takes place on the weekend of June 26, 27, 28th . We have been invited to the Breakfast and should let them know how many people will attend by next Friday, May 28th. They are very happy to host us and give us a prize. Info will be emailed.
FINANCIAL REPORT: From 31 February to 31 March, 2015, opening balance: $2515.40, Income: $53, Closing balance: $2569.40; From 31 March to 30 April, 2015, opening balance: $2569.40, Income: Membership (x3) + Can $ = $66.55, Debits $62.50 (SG cheque and Quiz $) = $2573.55.
Moved: Alex B, Seconded: David M.
Membership Increase: Due to increasing costs, increasing the membership was proposed from $20 to $30 for full members and concession from $15 to $25. No dissent. Moved: Naomi D, Seconded: Sharen C and Corissa R.
Concession entitlement will be amended to include members include under 18.
We are into the half price membership time (from now until October AGM).
Thanks for donating your small change to “I think I can” Train!
Regional Writing Group Grant from Writers Vic – up to $750 available for literary activities – what could we do with it? Topics suggested include a workshop day: characters or plot. Jennifer will investigate. Also to look into: Book in a Day? Workshop.
Thanks everyone for taking a flyer to promote our upcoming Events: Research Workshop with Kathie Olden. That is our next meeting June 18.
Nansi Kunze topic? Characters and Plot
Rodney Williams – Book Launch – In that dusty rear view mirror: 55 poems, Town and Country Gallery, June 12th, 7pm.
Successes: Jennifer brought the amazing hand crafted wooden pen that she received as the Gippsland prize at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival.
Meeting closed: 19: 45
BBWN Meeting Minutes March 19th
Thanks to Naomi Duff for the creative writing exercise! (See Writing Activity Tab above on this website for more info).
Meeting commenced 19:38
Naomi welcomed everyone to the meeting especially new member, Sharen.
Present: Tom M, Kathie O, Cassie R, Rodney W, Sharen C, Naomi D, Jennifer F, (8)
Apologies: David Mansfield, Judith St Mart, Carol Campbell, Corissa Reischieck, Alex Blackwood, Leah Mether, Keith Osborne, Lorraine Proctor (9)
Matters arising from previous minutes? Nil.
FINANCIAL REPORT: Opening balance 31/1/2105 $2298.40, Deposits and credits $217 (PreScribe sales, Memberships x2, Jigsaw Donation, Quiz), Withdrawals nil. Closing balance as at 28/02/15 $2515.40. Prepared by the Treasurer, Presented and moved by the Secretary, seconded by Rodney W.
Publicity: Another article in the Gazette – Printed the week of 3/3/15 with details and pic of our February author talk, and seen by Sharen which brought her to our meeting tonight!! We should keep this going. To help with future publicity, please take flyers and brochures to stick up in places where interested people might see them.
Future speaker topics: Scot Gardner and Nansi Kunze: topics? Workshop topics? Think on these – what do you want to learn and tell Jennifer.
Critique group: running well. If you would like to join or know more about this, see the secretary
Quiz Results: Winners Lorraine Proctor and Rodney Williams – Due to Lorraine being an apology, prize giving will be deferred until the next meeting.
Arts Market stallholders: Thanks to Sharen Leeah, and Cassie Reynolds who will help out at the last Arts Market for the year.
Successes: Geraldine Burrowes, poet and past BBWN member was shortlisted for the Tom Collins Poetry prize in WA; Tom M has self-published a novel: The Beaten Zone, available on Kindle and Createspace. Rodney and Jennifer have each had a haiku accepted for the next edition of online Japanese poetry journal, ahundredgourds.com. Congratulations to everyone!
New business: ‘I think I can’ moneybox train has been supplied by Rodney Williams to collect small coin contributions to put towards running our group. Thank you, Rodney. Please add your spare change to this little train when you come to meetings.
Better is Peace: Anzac centenary event coming to WGAC in April.
Rodney detailed the upcoming joint project for the ANZAC centenary – Better is peace. A joint collaboration between the West Gippsland Chorale, Off the Leash theatre and the Warragul Municipal Band. Performances will take place Friday April 24th and Sunday April 26th. Check local guides for more info. As Rodney described, there will be a significant choral presentation and re-enactments, and material has been derived from letters sent by soldiers. Rodney has also got a gig reading his own poem, At the Nek, and another by a poet called Wilfred Owen. (!)
20:00 Meeting closed for Kathie’s BookWell presenation, which was just thoroughly excellent. Thank you Kathie! It was wonderful.
February Meeting Minutes February 19, 2015 @ Drouin Library Meeting Opened 19:06
Welcome new members Tom and Carissa!
Present: Naomi Duff, Tom Mykytiuk, Corissa Reischchiek, Keith Osborne, Carol Campbell, Kathie Olden, Alexandra Blackwood, David Mansfield, Cassie Reynolds, Leah Mether, Jennifer Fell (10)
Apologies: Robyn Wade, Lorraine Proctor, Rodney Williams (lateness)
Matters arising from Previous Minutes: Paul de Graaf has not returned the group’s money. On January 16, 2015, an apology was posted on the group’s Facebook site, as requested by Paul. As no response was received, we doubted Paul was able to see the apology, so a letter was sent to him on February 6 with a printscreen copy of the apology. Paul posted in the Facebook group at 12:04 am on 19th February, 2015, the following: “Hi Jennifer Fell I am still waiting patiently for things to happen re the apology that was to have happened. Can you tell me when this will occur as I want this whole issue dealt with....Kind Regards Paul De Graaf.”
A copy was emailed to him on the day of the meeting by the secretary. (Other members also contacted Paul to let him know the apology was visible.)
Jennifer moved that the handling of this matter be removed from the main meeting business to allow the group to concentrate on writing. From now on, this matter will be handled by the executive committee. Seconded by Kathie Olden.
Discussion ensued and the group arrived at the following decisions approved by unanimous consent. The network welcomes Paul to repay the group’s money at the earliest time. The group will not report this matter to a further authority, however until the funds have been returned to the group, Paul’s membership (including all rights of membership such as Facebook and web access) are to be suspended. The secretary will notify Paul in writing of the group’s decision.
Treasury Report: Bank Statement at 31 Dec 2014 $2258.47, income consisted of 1 x Memberships, 9 x book quiz $2, 2 x Prescribe sales tallying to $58 coming in, Treasurer expenses of $18.07, leaving a closing balance at 31 Jan 2015 at $2298.40. Seconded David Mansfield.
Ficifolia Poetry Night: a great night, extremely enjoyable as always. A respectable turnout in spite of the rain. Poetry was great! Personally I was pleased to see so many locals getting up and performing thanks no doubt to the Baw Baw Poets Group. Thanks to the BBPG and Bill Frew for having us. We sold $55 worth of Pre-Scribes!
Writers Café this Saturday: Olive Lyon running. Held at the Station Gallery in Yarragon from 10:30
Arts Market this Saturday – volunteers? People seem busy, so let’s skip it for this month and review next month. March will be the last market so it would be good to have a table there though it does clash with…
Rodney’s Poetry Workshop at 10-11, 21st March, at Warragul Library. Call Warragul Library for bookings! There is Poetry open Mic straight afterwards, starting at 11.
Successes: Jennifer and Rodney have had haiku published in Windfall #3. Corissa Rieschiek (2nd)and Naomi Duff (3rd) received prizes in the Open Mic at the Poetry Night. Keith Osborne recited his superb poem ‘Out of Alice’ that he performed at the Poetry Night.
Meeting closed for speakers 19:44
JANUARY 2015 Meeting opened 19:38.
In the President’s absence, David opened the meeting and welcomed everyone including new member Linda Rowley. Welcome Linda! We are glad you found our group and very happy you could attend our meeting.
Present: Linda Rowley, Jennifer Fell, Kathie Olden, Robyn Wade, Carol Campbell, Lorraine Proctor, David Mansfield, Rodney Williams. (8)
Apologies: Naomi Duff, Leah Mether, Judith St Mart
Alex Blackwood led the Creative Writing Exercise. Alex elicited five words from the group that called to mind man-made things: satellite, concrete, galvanised, artificial, toilet and then instructed us that we were to write about nature using all those five words.
Time set for this was brief. The results were varied and unexpected. It is always a pleasure to see a good activity work (especially when there may have been some initial doubts). What was also pleasing was that every single person there shared what they came up with. Thanks everyone for sharing and thanks Alex for this exercise. [These writing activities are now being posted on our website under Writing Activities. Although it is no substitute for doing the exercise in the group and hearing what comes out, anyone who cannot attend a meeting now does not have to miss out on the exercise.]
BUSINESS
Matters arising from Previous Minutes:
Letter sent to Paul de Graaf. The secretary read the letter of November 21, 2014 sent to Paul de Graaf requesting repayment of his debt to the BBWN with details of the payment plan and due date.
Email response was received from Paul de Graaf on December 3, 2014. Comments following in quotation marks quote directly from this email. The secretary read the email response from Paul out to the group. Paul advised “I would forward the money to the treasurer in coming days, on the proviso that an apology for the way I was treated in the AGM [be given].” Paul also noted concerns: “I also note that there has been no follow up of the debt “ owed to the group “regarding payments made … for sales of Prescribe books sold at Market.” Paul also expressed the wish: “I hope this can be resolved at the uppermost earliest convenience so that the group can move on...”
Robyn Wade reported that Paul had told her on the day of the meeting that he will pay the money if the President apologises to him.
Lengthy discussion followed involving the members present regarding further steps in this matter. As a group, it was clear that the network regrets the grievance that Paul has been made to feel since the events at the AGM in October and shares with Paul the hope that this can be resolved at the earliest convenience. Rodney moved that we write to Paul a second time, to acknowledge and appreciate his grievances, while at the same time noting that as the President is an apology for the meeting, Paul’s request for an apology is difficult to act upon at this time. The President will be briefed as to the group’s discussion. This motion was approved by all present.
Alex Blackwood moved that the group apologise to Paul to recognise and regret how our actions as a group have made him feel. If Paul has any issues beyond this, he can take it up with the relevant person. Seconded by Jennifer Fell.
The group looks forward to receiving his payment by January 18th.
Regarding Paul’s concerns in his email regarding money for PreScribe Arts Market sales that was not passed on to the Treasury, it was noted that this matter was dealt with during the November meeting under Statement of Financial Position prepared by David Mansfield. The matter has been investigated and was resolved in November.
Correspondence:
Lisa Demos: the passing of former member and past President, Lisa Demos was noted. A condolence card and flowers were delivered to the Drouin Bakery after Christmas. Thanks to Alex and Naomi for organising this. We also discussed the possibility if acceptable to her family and to the Kilmore Poet’s Breakfast organisers to offer a prize (for most enthusiastic poet for instance) in honour of Lisa. The exec will make further enquiries to this. The idea of a prize was agreed in principle by all in attendance.
Book rcvd from Geraldine Burrowes and recent email – Geraldine sent a book written and signed by her poetry mentor, Claire Gaskin. Thank you Geraldine.
Geraldine also sent an email expressing her appreciation and enduring friendship for the BBWN and advising of a recent offer to have a body of work published. Congratulations Geraldine!
The network received an email from Shear Outback with details of a free short story competition – details are on the website. In future, the secretary will try and add all such emails to the News/updates page and/or Facebook page.
TREASURER’S REPORT
Statement balance as at end of December 2014, $2258.47
Money received for PreScribes, memberships, Summer Book Quiz totals $350. Money out totals $595.50. (GIO Insurance, Consumer Affairs x2, Flowers for LD, ND Expenses)
Alex submitted her expenses for approval. $18.07 Moved Rodney, Seconded Carol.
Treasurer moved that Treasury Report be accepted, seconded by David Mansfield.
MEMBERSHIP – pls pay your memberships to Alex to keep our group running! (Annual costs are insurance $423.50 and Consumer Affairs $53 = so to ‘break even’ we need roughly 25 memberships @20… only about 15 so far). Carol asked how many members we have. Secretary mentioned that exact number is uncertain but will check and report back. (Update: we have exactly 15 as at 16/1/15)
PRE-SCRIBE SALES REPORT – Warragul Arts Market – 6 more copies of PS5 sold – thanks to the excellent sales team of Robyn Wade and Naomi Duff.
David and Alex volunteered to run the stall at the Arts Market (interspersed with hairdressing obligations). Thanks David and Alex!
We are also planning to sell Pre-Scribe 5 at the Ficifolia Poetry Night, no confirmation as of yet. The Ficifolia Festival runs from 12-15 Feb, we will check when the Poetry Night actually is and advise.
We have also heard that Special Arrangements by Bill Frew (his radio show which can be heard on 3BBRFM on Wednesday mornings) has been arranged for the stage by member Jeannie Haughton and will be read at the Old Drouin Butter Factory on Sunday 8 Feb at 2pm.
SELLING BOOK QUIZ TO RAISE MONEY – Thank you to everyone who has bought a quiz (just had the first copy back!) 29 copies sold so far, quizzes due back to Jennifer by Feb 28, 2015.
Emailing Critique Group: started in January with test run - see Jennifer if interested – email a story of poem on the first Wednesday of the month, the pieces get emailed around and then everyone writes feedback by the third Wednesday. The secretary then forwards the feedback to everybody. February stories are due Wednesday February 4th!
2015 Writing Goals: David mentioned this again. In February, we will revisit this. In the meantime, think about a writing goal you would like to achieve for the coming year.
2015 PLANNING – The program is set for this year. Next month: Guest Authors – Leanne Davidson and Michelle Path will come to our meeting. Michelle has recently published a children’s picture book: Xalien the Purple Alien and has another title in that series about to be published. Leanne is a much published children’s author of Quizzical as well as several other titles.
NEW BUSINESS: Kathie advised that March 21st is World Wide Poetry Day. The library is hoping to run a workshop and ther activities (Poem in your pocket).
Lorraine noted that the network used to have a can for gold coin donations and would it not be a good idea to reintroduce this. Agreed by Jennifer, Rodney volunteered to get a new can for us. And Alex will look after the can and bring it to the meetings. Thanks everyone!
BookWell Presentation is postponed until March due to the meeting overrunning the time.
SUPPER
Meeting closed: 20:43