THOUGHTS FROM THE CHAIR

Where did summer go? It seems only a short while ago that we were looking forward to the new diving season and now here we are approaching the close.

Sadly it has not been such a good season as the last few. The club has, I think, been on something of a 'roll' for the last few years but has suddenly been shaken to the core by recent tragic events.

Three 'incidents' in as many months certainly focuses the mind on the darker side of our sport. The Club officers have obviously been discussing the possible implications as a result of these occurrences and it would be irresponsible for us not to review what we do, and to make sure that any lessons that can be learnt are put into action. I would like to emphasise that this review was not prompted by any criticism from either inside the club or from outside but is what we consider the common sense thing to do.

I am not going into detail on any of the events that occurred, as this is neither the time nor the place. Speculation is not going to provide any answers and apportioning blame without substantiation is absolutely pointless.

Certain measures have already been implemented such as re-emphasising the need for proper log keeping on Club dives and drawing up an emergency contact list for each trip. Meanwhile, a discussion amongst our instructors and those involved in training has also produced further valuable ideas which will be filtering in shortly. These will mostly affect new trainees.

Our sport is not without risk; we all know that from our training but with a combination of sticking to the safety guidelines and common sense we should be able to minimise those risks and enjoy safe diving for all. It will do nobody any harm to take a step back for a few moments and review his or her own diving techniques and standards.

Anyway, on a completely different topic, it's coming up to AGM time again (see page 4 for full details of dates etc). By the time you read this you should have had formal notification. As well as the Officers' annual reports it also time to elect members for positions on the Club Committee. Some of the current Committee members are willing to stand for re-election; others are standing down this year. That doesn't mean to say that some positions are already filled and some are vacant - every position is available and competition is always healthy. So if you feel you can offer something valuable in helping with the management of the Club why not get yourself nominated. If you want to know more about a particular Committee position and what is involved, talk to the present incumbent or come and talk to me - we don't bite! Fresh blood is always good for committees (fresh blood without biting?? - Ed), as they can get stagnant. So come on, throw your snorkel into the ring and don't sit on the fence.

Bob

e-bubbling: Trip vacancies, news and for sales for e-bubbling to Bob Kempton at robert@rkempton.freeserve.co.uk

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