On Saturday 9 October 2010, 21 Members and Friends of the NSW Branch of the Richard III Society gathered for our AGM. The interest was high as there was to be a two-part talk given by long-time member Win Tonkin after the business of the day had been concluded. We were pleased to welcome Rosemary back to the group, as well as our Friend from the Dorset, UK, Richard III Society Group, Babs Creamer, who was in Australia to attend her grandson’s 18th birthday party.

Judith Hughes tabled the Chair Person’s report, the text of which will appear in the next Affinity newsletter. Dorothea Preis of the many hats presented the Treasurer’s Report, the Webmaster’s Report and the Library Report, each being in good condition. The website has garnered much appreciation internationally, and from several noted historical authors specialising in our chosen era, so we can be justly proud of it. Dorothea has done a wonderful job.

Julia Redlich then presented the Secretary’s report with a reminder that registration will be opening soon for next August’s big biennial convention in Melbourne. I was particularly interested to know more about the outreach efforts of the branch, and was provided that information in a follow-up email, which I refer to here. Our talented speakers, Julia, Dorothea, Judith and Kevin addressed various Probus and National Seniors groups throughout the year in metropolitan Sydney, with audiences averaging about 50 attendees. There are already 4 bookings in the next few months, with more to come in the new calendar year. I personally am very grateful for all the work the speakers do throughout the year, and admire how they undertake public speaking to educate the general public about Richard’s honourable role in English history.

Kevin Herbert reviewed the social calendar for the year just completed, reporting that the restaurant scene has been changing over the past few years and new venues now need to be scouted out with more appealing menus, service and prices for our group functions.

At the end of the reports the committee was duly thanked and stood down, and then re-elected en masse with the exception of Kevin who needs a rest after 15 years as Social Secretary though he will continue as Deputy Chairman. He was replaced by Jane Roberts and Xavier de Saint-Simon who volunteered to take over the organisation of the new year’s social events as well as organising refreshments at the general meetings.

Win Tonkin’s interesting and comprehensive presentations were about ‘The Stone of Destiny’, and ‘The Honours of Scotland’. The Stone of Destiny is the block of stone dating back to biblical times upon which the ancient Kings of Scotland were once crowned. Win had personally known two of the Scottish Nationals who were responsible for stealing the Stone as a protest some years back. The full text of Win’s presentations will be in the next Chronicles of the White Rose, the journal of the NSW Branch, as well as posted on the website.

The next meeting will be on Saturday 11 December 2010 which will be our Christmas function. See you there!

Tags: NSW Branch, Scotland