As usual, it was a good turnout at the meeting and your continued attendance is greatly appreciated.

 

Opening comments

 

New member, Andy Holden was warmly welcomed.

The club mailing list was updated.

 

Reviews

 

Trearddur Bay Anniversary Dive Weekend - Few late cancellations but well done to John McPoland and Paul Daley for following through and doing some diving at Trearddur. Apologies from myself, as I was significantly delayed coming home from offshore thru fog in Shetland. Would be so much easier if I worked down the road!. Several members settled for a sunny day at Delph. It was commented that the Delph has become quite popular now, perhaps due to the entrance price increase at Capernwray.

 

Birks Bridge - Margaret and Andy still have this venue on their schedule to check out in the future.

 

 

Pending Trips

 

Puffin Divers, Oban - Was felt that perhaps April water may be a litle chilly, despite Dave's optimistic forecast! I will investigate further and acquire dates for Early-Summer 2011. This will give us ample time to book and collect deposits. Eleven of the required twelve names were acquired at the meeting and this was very encouraging. I will contact all members with dates etc over next couple of weeks. Its estimated the two days diving will cost about £85 each person. Website is www.puffin.org.uk

 

St Abbs, Scottish Borders - This is a very attractive venue withy often spectacular diving. I will discuss with St Abbs Boat Charters and acquire dates etc. As for Oban trip, I will try and acquire accommodation at the venue which keeps us all together. I expect the prices to be roughly the same as Puffin Divers, Oban trip above. Check out the website www.divestabbs.info

 

 

Proposed trips

 

Discovery Charter, Liverpool - runs daily to various dive sites around Liverpool. Costs approx £45 a day. Very weather and tidal-dependent. I'll look into this further and perthaps similar facilities for day trips out.

 

 

General activities

 

Delph/Capernwray - These venues provide the easiest options and remain the mainstay of the club's diving activities. Most weekends and Wednesdays will find members at one or the other (or both!). Members were reminded to use the communications in place to highlight any plans and get members together. Remember we have the club website, Scubatext, e-mail and the Aquaventurers Facebook.

 

Club Nite Out - Our Summer soiree will be held at the Rat & Parrot in town this Friday around 7.30 to 9pm. Try and come along. Paul Daley will be hosting a presentation on "How I survived the attack of a Great White Trout!". I understand that, for a quid, he will show you his scars!

 

Classifieds - Loads of members are looking for bits of dive gear! If you are having a clear out or buying new gear, please drop me an e-mail. I'll advertise to the other members.

 

Guest Speakers - Liz Morris of SeaSearch will be guest speaker at our Oct/Nov meeting. Lots of members interested in getting involved in the Seasearch training, not least because it has cheaper boat trip out of North Wales!

 

Facebook - The club Facebook website is now packed with photos. Also has over 130 members. If you haven't yet, please sign up and get involved. Site is public-access so no formalities.

 

Training - Kevin Tomlinson (Dive Instructor) gave a broad overview of his proposal to ally existing Aquaventurer training to the club members. Essentially, this will take the form of discounted PADI speciality courses to active club members though will include very useful extra-curricular sessions such as effective delayed SMB deployment etc. This was felt to be a significant development which, if embraced, will enhance our individual safety standards. I will discuss with Kevin and provide specific details over next couple of weeks.

 

Emergency First Response (EFR) training - Anyone wishing to proceed through the PADI Rescue Diver qualification and beyond, or simply wishes to develop their First Aid skills, should consider carrying out this one-day course. Paula Bunner of LifeSaver Ltd is happy to provide a discounted fee to registered active club members. Check out their website on lifesavertraining.co.uk and give Paula a ring on 0151 207 0081 or mobile 07971 193663.

 

Closing comments - All members are encouraged to take initiatives and organise things when they identify diving opportunities. Let me know and I'll communicate to all other members!

 

Best regards and dive safely!

 

John