Branches and Groups received the January Posting in January and all forms should be completed and returned as specified at the bottom of each form.  Full details of the State Conference were sent with the January Posting.

The 2010 State Conference is to be held at Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street, Melbourne.  It commences on Tuesday 25 May with the Annual Ecumenical Service at the Town Hall at 11 a.m. Some interesting guest speakers have been arranged and the Conference will take a similar format to last year with time for Members to meet with their Sister Branch Members over the lunch period to continue this friendship link.  Lunch will not be available at the Town Hall due to the cost but there are many cafes and restaurants nearby.  Members are reminded that they cannot bring food into the Town Hall.

Thanksgiving Fund voting cards should be returned in the envelope provided, by the due date, or votes will not be counted.  Last year many envelopes were returned after the due date but luckily this did not affect the result.  Cheques or letters should not be included in this envelope as they are placed directly into the ballot box, unopened.

There are still some outstanding Branch Membership dues.  If a Branch has not paid membership subscriptions for 2009/2010, please forward the payment, as per the account, as soon as possible. This also ensures continuity of Insurance cover for Members.

When forwarding payment of membership for a new member joining during the year, please remember to include the $5 payment for postage for the magazine (bulk postage) or $12 if the new member would like the magazine sent direct to their home.

Secretaries, have you returned your Branch Office Bearer details?  If not, please forward the completed form as soon as possible, so that details can be recorded and mail forwarded to the correct address.

Special Fundraising Event for the State Project – Twilight Cocktail Party and Fashion Parade – Wednesday 24 March at the Club 6-8pm.  Flyers are being delivered to all Branches and there are further details in this magazine.

Group Presidents’ Leadership School for 2010 – Please note that this is to be held on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 May and not the 6 and 7 May as previously listed in the Meetings and Fixtures.

We again thank all Groups, Branches and Members who give so generously to our Association. Without the many members who sew and knit items, we would not be able to make so many donations both locally and internationally.  We are still receiving many donations of goods and money for pamper packs and these are greatly appreciated.

                                                                             Sue Stanley

    Executive Secretary