Bulletin 17 - July 1982: Editorial

Editorial

With Giles Roche's departure in May, 'Bish' Brown has once again taken over the Chairman's post which he last held in 1979 - 80. 'Bish' insists that his tenure is "temporary until a volunteer comes forward" and intends to stand down at the next AGM to concentrate on more fieldwork and research. The Group is very grateful to Giles for his brief but energetic contribution and he has left us with part of his collection of bees and wasps, now on display in the Workroom. There is no doubt that the study of these insects in the UAE has a firm foundation and Ian Hamer is continuing research.

'Bish' is of course no stranger, being the only Committee member remaining from those faroff days in 1976 ,when the Group was inaugurated. His first task on reappointment was to call the Recorders together to revitalise their roles and thereby stimulate more interest from the general membership. One result was the idea of Recorders' albums, in which photographs of activities are displayed during Monday evening talks and kept available in the Workroom. Roger Brown, our Marine Recorder, was first off the mark, and other subjects are following.

After a lengthy period of correspondence and discussion between the Committees of both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain Groups it has been decided that the latter should enjoy more autonomy while remaining affiliated to the parent Group. Henceforth the Al Ain Group will decide their own subscription rates, set up their own library and extend their range of facilities. Token copies of the Bulletin will be forwarded from Abu Dhabi in line with our policy towards similar organisations throughout the Gulf. Both Groups will continue to exchange information, and cooperate on activities such as field trips, talks and articles.

The Photographic Competition run this spring by the Al Ain Group was a distinct success and another is planned for next year. Our congratulations go to Ian and June Hamer of the Abu Dhabi Group for their success. Ian won first prize in the PLANTS category and June clinched second in the WILDLIFE section.

This edition introduces a page of black and white photographs illustrating some aspects of three articles. The cost of reproducing colour photos is unfortunately well beyond our financial means, but the Editor welcomes suggestions and criticism.