President: The role is to provide leadership to the Committee and the Society. The President chairs all Committee meetings and all ordinary and annual general meetings of the Society. In liaison with the Technical Officer, the President may also act as chairman of the technical meetings. There is a requirement to be able to get the best out of meetings, as well as to have a clear vision of where the Society is going, and a capacity to communicate this to all members, especially Committee members. |
Vice-Presidents: There are two Vice-Presidents. One or other acts on behalf of the President at any meeting at which the President is absent. By recent convention, each Vice-President has responsibility for managing either Crago Observatory or Wiruna, taking the position of chairman of the Subcommittee for each location, and reporting to the Committee on the requirements of that location. |
Secretary: The Secretary deals with all mail, replies to correspondence and prepares the agenda and the minutes for all Committee meetings. "Society Notes", being a summary of matters discussed at Committee meeting, is also prepared by the Secretary for inclusion each month in Universe magazine. |
Treasurer: The role of Treasurer involves managing the financial affairs of the Society, maintaining the membership records, administering the annual South Pacific Star Party, as well as preparing the annual accounts of the Society and it's asset records. The Treasurer really needs to have accounting qualifications and experience with using computers and accounting software, as well as knowledge of database management to maintain membership and Star Party attendance records. There is a need for a reasonable understanding of financial management, as the total value of assets owned by the Society is considerable. The position would suit a person who is retired or employed part time. |
Editor: The Editor prepares Universe magazine for publication each month and this involves a substantial and regular time commitment. If the volume of articles from members declines, the Editor must provide alternative material to make up the short-fall. Computer, typing, English and editorial skills are essential, as well as an ability to adhere to deadlines. |
Technical Officer: The Technical Officer is responsible for obtaining speakers for all ordinary meetings and technical meetings. In liaison with the President, the Technical Officer may also act as chairman of the technical meetings. |
Observations Officer: The Observations Officer is expected to write regular articles for Universe magazine on matters of interest to observers, including current astronomical phenomena. The role includes presenting at least one lecture per year to the Society. The Observations Officer may also assist the Technical Officer in obtaining speakers for all meetings. |
Education Officer: The Education Officer is responsible for presenting educational sectors at most technical meetings and writing regular articles for Universe of an educational nature. |
Librarian: The Librarian is responsible for the custody of the Society's book collection, including recording loans and returns of books, as well as recommending new book purchases. Another duty performed by the Librarian is to provide the supper after Society meetings. |
In addition to the specific duties outlined above, Committee members are usually members of one additional Subcommittee and contribute to organising the South Pacific Star Party.