Little Penguin Meeting Summary for July 2024
On Saturday, July 20, 2024, the Eden Library meeting, chaired by Wendy Noble. Present were Wendy Noble, Julian Webb, Jo Garton, Anna Heyligers, Melita Thompson-Kambas, Robyn Kesby, and Nicholas Carlile (joining via phone). Apologies were received from Deb Keys, Symony Douglas, Chris Lloyd, Leo Berzins, and Rachael Butterworth.
The meeting addressed several action items from previous minutes. It was reported that police checks are not currently required for members but might be necessary for certain grants. The ECAC Volunteer Form, which is crucial for volunteer insurance, has been updated and received.
An update on the Wheel Cove sound attraction system revealed that despite the purchase of a new battery, the sound system was not functioning correctly. This delay has impacted the project's timeline for the penguin season. The lid of the Pelican Box is not sealing properly, and technical issues with the wiring require the expertise of a marine engineer. One of the members could assist with this and will make arrangements next week.
The ECAC auspice arrangement has been finalised, and the group’s bank account has been successfully transferred to ECAC management.
Updates from Sapphire Coastal Adventures and Freedom Charters about penguin sightings were noted, and we will continue maintaining communication with these groups.
Discussions on funding highlighted the complexity of applying for grants, with a focus on signage for the Rotary lookout and Wheel Cove fence. We will investigate smaller community grants and liaise with Council about signage. A pull-up banner for the Whale Festival was proposed, which will be arranged for the Whale Festival in October.
In general business, the group decided to keep the existing ‘Little Penguins Eden’ logo with some changes and agreed to update their Facebook page address to match other social sites. We will contact various contacts for interpretation materials and fundraising opportunities, including potential merchandise.
The meeting concluded with a summary of actions and a reminder of the next meeting on August 24, 2024, at Eden Library, a month ahead of the usual schedule to accommodate plans for the Eden Whale Festival.
