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SEMAC NEwS MAR - APR 2026
Summary of the General Meeting April 7 2026, at the Dingley Community Centre
Attendance & Apologies
Attendance: 25 members (a significant increase from 11 members at the February meeting)
New Members: The President welcomed two prospective new members, Nick and Gill
Apologies: None received
BUSINESS FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING
Due to the Secretary's absence at the February 3, 2026 meeting at Dingley Hall, no minutes were distributed or available for approval. Consequently, there was no business arising from the previous meeting.
President's Report - Petro Georgiou
Vehicle Acquisition - The Subaru Water Cart/Fire Vehicle is now operational at the field following Committee's decision to accept David B's generous offer because a suitable utility vehicle could not be found at an acceptable price. Cost was approximately $400 for servicing and setup (inspected by Eddie, Petro, and Petro's mechanic). The Subaru will preserve the Toro mower from water cart duties and extend its operational life
Flight Ceiling Approval - 1000' flight ceiling has been approved by the VMAA and MAAA. Special thanks to Geoff M for preparing the comprehensive application, including supporting documentation links. Additional thanks to Petro for providing supplementary information to Mark Sills (VMAA) and for contacting all airfields and helicopter ports within 50km radius.
Infrastructure Improvements - Peter Z continued his excellent work, recently adding insulation to battery box for improved cooling and extended battery life at the charging station.
Shade Structures - Phil G purchased multiple large patio umbrellas from Bunnings for pit table shade during summer months.
Training Development - Eddie H is considering applying for the Heavy Model Inspector course.
Special Event Coordination - Petro coordinated the evening's auction of donated aircraft, engines, and hardware from a deceased country modeller. Thanks to Chris Z for assistance and providing storage for auction items
Treasurer's Report - Rod Clipstone
Financial Position - The club is in a sound position and will shortly receive an injection of fees with membership fees due end June. The Bank Balance is available on request from the Treasurer.
Membership Numbers: 43 full members and 4 associates
Recent Expenditures - Subaru vehicle setup and operational costs, ongoing mowing expenses, patio umbrella purchases.
Secretary's Report - David Wheeler
Committee Activities - One Committee meeting held on March 25 at Dingley Hall.
Facility Maintenance - Discussions were held with Glen (MX) regarding additional soil delivery, now complete, and on slashing the outfield. The outfields have since been mowed by Eddie, while the NE corner requires Rod's tractor.
Correspondence - 5 emails from VMAA: Meeting minutes, reports, and updates. Email from Greg H with grant application suggestions.
General Business
Grant Applications Discussion - Question raised by Greg H and Phil G regarding Committee's grant application plans. No applications have been submitted sibnce the Weather Station grant application which, though good was not regarded as essential by the VMAA. The Committee would welcome any member interested in serving as "Grants Officer" - please contact President or Committee members.
Ongoing Initiatives
Can Money collection continues successfully - thanks to all members for their participation. The auction of planes and parts was an outstanding success. The proceeds were approx $1,500 and made a significant boost to club finances.
SuppeR
Pizza and soft drinks enjoyed by all attendees. $5 donation per person to cover expenses.
Meeting Closed: 9:30 PM
Next Meeting
Date: June 2, 2026 Time: 7:30 PM Venue: Dingley Community Centre, Meeting Room 4/5