The Australian Geologist - Geological Society of Australia

Our 'kangaroo raffle' was a popular way to collect business cards and
a lucky delegate got a gorgeous 'roo and joey for their collection.
true e-commerce facility. It may take a little time to become
accustomed to; however the long-term benefits will be significant,
already both Elli and Anna and are commenting on how
much an improvement the system now is.
The login member area on the GSA website is now active
and live. This link will take you to a secure site linked to the
GSA database where you can browse your membership details,
make a payment online or view the Member Register electronically.
We have already had over 100 members use the new
online payment facility and are pleased with the results.
The $10.00 student membership is now available for 2007.
This is a great initiative of the GSA and one that we really hope
brings students to the Society. The discounted rate is for students
studying in Australia and applies to students receiving
AJES online only (or with no journal).
Alcheringa goes online in 2007, and also in 2007 students
choosing Alcheringa will receive their membership for $20
with the hard copy journal included – this is great news for
palaeontology students and is another example of focussing
efforts at students. Please encourage students to join the society
as it can enhance their geological education now and into
the future. The benefits will be both short and longer term.
Enclosed in the December TAG is your copy of GeoCal. You
may recall we introduced the inaugural wall planner last year
(maybe it is still on your wall). We had really positive feedback
about the wall planner and it is with pleasure that we bring
you GeoCal 2007. The 2007 calendar builds on the earlier issue
and we hope you find it informative useful. If you would prefer
it as a pdf you can download it from the GSA website. It is
available at www.gsa.org.au/events/calendar.html
Society members have been busy producing publications
since the September TAG. New publications include: AB84
Abstracts from the XI International Conference of The Cambrian
Stage Subdivision Working Group, held in South Australia and
organised by Jim Jago and AB82 the Extended Abstracts of the
Australian Earth Sciences Convention 2006. The Queensland
Division has produced another outstanding book Rocks and
Landscapes of the National Parks of Central Queensland, by
Warwick Wilmott; see the advertisement on page 18 for more
detail. The new AAP Memoir AAPM32 Cambro-Ordovician
Studies II, edited by JR Paterson and JR Laurie is also available
from the GSA Business Office or online.
As promised, I am continuing to reduce repetitive tasks by
automating where possible, which enables the business office
staff to concentrate on more important issues like the membership;
what you value and how we can continue to improve
and move forward as a society.
Our resources are finite, so where and how we focus our
efforts is important. The focus continues to be improving member
services and access, while developing relationships with
allied and affiliated organisations and developing education
and outreach activities that will make an impact on potential
geologists, future voters and decision-makers as well as future
and present science teachers.
As always please contact me with your ideas on how to
improve the society and don’t forget to renew your membership
now at the earlybird discounted membership rate.
We already have a number of activities in the planning
stages for 2007 and on that note I wish you a happy and
prosperous New Year.
SUE FLETCHER
Business Manager
TAG December 2006 | 5