Club Notes

Weekly News Letter - 30th April 2008

Club Secretary

We have had an offer from Caron Smith to be the Club Secretary. If there are no dissenters or other offers I will confirm her position tomorrow.

No Pool – Bank Holiday

We do not have pool sessions on Bank Holidays so there will be no meeting next week. The next session will be on the 12^th, which will also be the first lecture and pool session for the new ocean diver trainees.

Open Water Training

There are two days of open water training this weekend at Gildenburgh. If you do not have all your kit:

Regs

Cylinder

Wetsuit/semidry/dry suit

Boots

hood

gloves

mask

outdoor fins - strap heels not pool fins

weight belt with sufficient weights (8-12kg)

or have not arranged your travel and accommodation (if you are staying up there) ,then you need to contact Rob or Wil asap!

Other than that I know you will have a fun weekend and safe diving!

Weekly News Letter - 24th April 2008

Just a reminder that the AGM will be at 18 Victoria Park Sq (Wil’s office) at 7:30pm on Monday 28^th April 2008. Here is a map just incase you do not know where to go:

http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=535102&y=182901&z=1&sv=535102,182901&st=4&ar=Y&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf

The arrow should point to the right spot! The office is half way down the street on the left. If you get lost just give me a call on 0788 161 4373.

Finally, if anyone wishes to take on a committee role then please put yourself forward at the AGM. The more you get involved you get, the more you get out of it (honest!).

And if that isn’t enough to get you to turn up, then just to let you know that Rob will be supplying wine and there should also be some beer and nibbles!

Could you reply to this email to let me know if you can’t make it.

Thanks

Paul

Weekly News Letter - 13th April 2008

Just a reminder that there are no lectures tomorrow, so get yourselves down to the pool for some octopush and get fit!

If you want to SCUBA in the deep end and you are qualified or if you can find an instructor who isn’t playing octopush then you are welcome to do so.

Weekly News Letter - 6th April 2008

Ocean Divers

Julie should be liaising with you to finish off any lectures you may have missed. Once these have been done we can arrange for you to take the theory test.

Sports Divers

The last lecture has been re-scheduled to the 12^th May.

*IMPORTANT* AGM Date Change

As mentioned in my earlier email, we have had to move the AGM to the 28^th April (due to Rob’s illness and various other absentees). The AGM will be held at 18 Victoria Park Sq and starting around 7:45pm. Remember is you wish to stand for any of the committee positions you just need to be nominated and seconded on the night (and win any vote of course).

All help is appreciated and we’d love to see more of you getting involved in running the club. Remember it is *your* club!

Try Dives

Stuart will be coming along to do a try dive this week so please welcome him to the club.

Weekly News Letter - 30th March 2008

First of all some apologies for the training disruption we have seen over the last month or so. I am sure you all understand why Rob and Rita and I have not been down to the pool for the last 6 weeks. In our absence Julie has taken up the job of teaching the lectures (many thanks) and Brian is of course still at the poolside to organise and hand out kit.

Sports and Ocean Divers. We have slightly lost track of what lectures you have left to do, so if you could let us know at the pool, contact Julie or email instructors@hackneydiving.org to let us know what you are missing, we can schedule your missing lectures.

Ocean Divers

As most of you have at least one lecture to catch up on, there will be no theory paper tomorrow night. If you were really geared up to do the test then please call Paul on 0788 161 4373 and I will arrange for the papers to be available.

If you have pool session to finish off please come to the pool.

Sports Divers

Julie will be doing the lecture ST5 - Breathing Gas Planning and Systems (not ST6 as advertised on the web site). Please meet at 18 Victoria Pk Sq at 8:15pm.

AGM

Don't forget that the AGM will be held in two weeks. It is really important that you all attend so that you can find out what has been going on and what we are planning for the next year. You can give your input and even stand for one of the committee positions.

As you know there are quite a few committee members who will not be standing for re-election so your help is vital to ensure that the club continues to grow.

As promised here is a quick description of each committee post:

The Chair

The Chairperson is the Chief Executive Officer of the Club. S/he chairs all meetings of the Club and of the Committee at which s/he is present. S/he oversees the “land” based activities of the club. Her/his decision on matters of procedure is final.

The Diving Officer

The Diving Officer has responsibility for the training and diving activities of the Club and for the safe conduct of all divers in the club. S/he ensures that all activities are carried on in accordance with BSAC practices and procedures. The Diving Officer can delegate training duties to a Training Officer, who is then responsible to her/him for the performance of these duties. The Diving Officer's decision in respect of her/his responsibilities are final in the club.

The Secretary

The Secretary maintains the Club records and takes minutes at the meetings of the Committee, General Meetings of the Club, and any other Club meetings. S/he is primarily responsible for the Club's communications with third parties, and keeps the Officers, the Committee and/or the Club, as may be appropriate, informed of matters coming to his attention which relate to Club activities.

The Treasurer

The Treasurer is responsible for dealing with all monies received or paid on behalf of the Club. S/he makes any investment of Club funds approved by the Committee, keeps records and proper books of account of all financial transactions conducted in the Club's name and prepares a statement of income and expenditure and a balance sheet to the last day of each year for submission to the Annual General Meeting.

S/he arranges for all Club funds and securities to be kept on deposit with a bank or banks approved by the Committee and maintains a current account or accounts on which any two Officers may sign cheques or other orders.

The Expeditions Officer

The Expeditions Officer is responsible for booking the years diving schedule. This is usually done late in the previous year and should be ratified and finalised by the committee early the following year. S/he is also responsible for taking a lead in selling the Club trips to members. This may involve asking others to help in this duty.

The Training Officer

The Training Officer is responsible for arranging and implementing all aspects of the Clubs training activities. This is usually done in conjunction with the Diving Officer. It includes arranging lectures, pool sessions and open water sessions and arranging for sufficient instructors to assist in all these sessions/lectures. Additionally, the Training Officer ensures that members have training notes or assists them in getting these.

The Membership Officer

The Membership Officer is responsible for all aspects of administering Club membership. This is usually done in conjunction with the Treasurer. This includes chasing members up when their membership needs renewing, dealing with BSAC to ensure individuals membership there is dealt with and collecting the Club subscriptions.

The Equipment Officer

The Equipment Officer is responsible for administering all aspects of Club diving kit. This includes keeping a record of all items of equipment and ensuring all equipment is kept in serviceable order. This includes taking cylinders to be filled, getting Club equipment serviced, keeping good records of who has been lent what kit for open water dives, collecting fees for Club kit hire, etc. The Equipment Officer can delegate these duties to any other member of the Club

Voting members

These members will be responsible for miscellaneous duties such as the recruitment of new members, organising social events for club members, etc.

We also plan on introducing two more roles:

Marketing Officer

Responsible for raising the profile of the club and generating strategies for gaining new members.

Social Secretary

Who will be responsible for arranging extra-diving activities, such as nights out, parties and generally building a club centric social life.

Weekly News Letter - 23rd March 2008

Just to remind everyone that we do not meet on bank holidays. There are no pool sessions or lectures tomorrow (unless Julie has arranged lectures with you directly).

I will correct the training schedule on the web site to reflect this when I get a chance.

The next session will be on the 31^st. See you all then.

Have a good Easter!

Weekly News Letter - 16th March 2008

Ocean Divers

The Nitrox workshop is this week. Julie will be taking the workshop which will be at 18 Victoria Park Sq as usual.

News from the Ward

Rob will be having a valve replacement operation. This was to take place on Tuesday but has been put back. I will let you know when the new date is.

Try Divers

We have 3 try divers this week, I am sure you will all make them feel welcome. If one of you Sports divers feel like taking a try diver in then please turn up and liaise with Brian. Your help would be much appreciated and it is a very interesting experience.

Weekly News Letter - 9th March 2008

Octopush

It’s octopush week again, so bring your snorkel, mask and fins and lets have some fun!

Training

There is no training this week due to the octopus session.

Rob, Michele and Paul

The invalid trio are all doing well!

Rob is being let out of hospital for a few hours a day, 3 days a week and is feeling much better on his antibiotics.

Michele will be back at work next week.

Paul has had his knee operation and is currently recuperating at home with his feet up (quite literally).

Try Divers and Cylinder Fills

We have 3 try divers for the 17^th March but most of the cylinders need filling. If any of you who are coming to the octopus session can take some cylinders to be filled it would be much appreciated.

Please liaise with Brian or Rachid.

AGM

Don’t forget that the AGM is being held on the 14^th April. Some of the committee members do not intend to stand for re-election, so if you feel you can help the club by joining the committee, you can put your name forward at the AGM.

The current positions are:

Chair(person)

Diving Officer

Treasurer

Secretary

Training Officer

Membership Sec.

Equipment Officer

Expeditions Officer

And 3 voting members

Of these the Treasurer, Secretary, Training and Membership officers do not intend to stand for re-election.

In addition there is an intention to add two extra places to the committee (which will be voted on at the AGM):

- Events Officer who will be organising lots of non-diving things for us to do as a club.

- Marketing Officer who will be responsible for raising the profile of the club and attracting new members.

We will give more details about all these positions in future news letters.

Weekly News Letter - 2nd March 2008

Sunday 2^nd March 2008

Ocean Students

There should be a pool session this week. I will not be around but Mic Gee and Brian should be on hand.

Sports Students

Julie has kindly offered to give the lecture this week. Can you please meet at 18 Victoria Park Square at 8pm. This is earlier than usual as the lecture can go on for over an hour.

Rob and Michele

Michele is out of hospital after her PFO operation and is currently recuperating at home. Rob is feeling well after a week’s antibiotics but will be in hospital for a few weeks yet.

We wish them both a rapid recovery.

Weekly News Letter - 24th February 2008

Ocean Diver Students

Julie will be taking this week’s lecture OT7 – Enjoying Your Diving. Please be at 18 Victoria Park Square by 8:15pm.

Sports Diver Students

Unfortunately, I have the flu and will not be able to give the lecture this week. I will try to re-arrange it for next week but will contact you to confirm.

Illness

As you already know Rob has not been down the pool for a while now as he has been ill. Last Tuesday Rob’s doctor sent him to hospital and he has since been diagnosed with Endocarditis, which is an infection of the heart. He is currently on antibiotics and is expected to be in hospital for another 6 to 8 weeks.

I am sure you all join with me in wishing him the best possible recovery.

Illness 2

Not quite an illness but I just wanted to wish Michele good luck with her PFO operation this week (and it’s about time!). Michele will be in the Brompton on Wednesday and should be in for two days or so.

Weekly News Letter - 17th February 2008

Ocean Diver Students

Ocean Divers are in the pool this week. Please remember to bring your books for signing after the session.

Sports Diver Students

The lecture this week is cancelled as Wil is ill and as he is both a student on the course and needs to be ther for us to have to lecture room, I am moving the lecture to next week. We will probably need to have the lecture in the pub but I will confirm that next week.

Apologies for the inconvenience. Hope you get over your flu soon Wil.

Octopush

Octopush was great fun last week and despite my best attempts at cheating the black team still won (apparently). I think we are going to have to tie Matt’s legs together next time.

Weekly News Letter - 10th February 2008

Octopush

It’ that time again! Octopush this week - bring fins, mask and gloves!

And no cheating this time Brian!

Training

There is no training this week as we are playing Octopush!

It would be nice to see you all for the Octopush session.

Weekly News Letter - 3rd February 2008

Ocean Diver Students

There is a lecture this week: Lecture OT6 - What Happens If….?

Please meet at 18 Victoria Park Sq. at 8:15pm. Julie will be taking the lecture. Don’t forget your books for signing.

Sports Diver Students

Those that started their rescue skills two weeks ago will be completing the lesson this week. If you did not attend two weeks ago then please call Rob Wilkins to see if there is an instructor free to start the lesson this week.

Open Water Training Trips

Rob will be at the Club on Monday 4th and will be chasing deposits for Open Water training trips. Please bring your money and book on. First come first served.

Trips

The Diving season is getting closer so if you have not booked on any trips then now is the time to do so. Please see Ann in the pub after the pool session or call Ann to book on.

Octopush

Don’t forget that next week’s pool session is for octopush. Everyone seemed to enjoy last month’s octopush and there were no reports of injuries!

Committee Meeting

There is a committee meeting on Wednesday evening. If you have any issues you wish raised then please bring then to the attention of one of the committee members tomorrow evening.

Weekly News Letter - 27th January 2008

Sports Diver Students

There is a lecture this week:

Lecture ST3 - Equipment and Techniques

Please meet at 18 Victoria Park Sq at 8:15pm and please bring your books to sign.

Ocean Diver Students

Pool session this week. Please arrive on time and bring your books to sign.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Matt who passed his Sports diver theory last week and is now a qualified Sports diver.

Committee Meeting

The next committee meeting is on 6th Feb. at 7:30pm in the Shakespeare's Head in Holborn. If you are not on the committee but would like to come along and observe then you are very welcome.

Weekly News Letter - 19th January 2008

Sports Diver Students

Pool session on Monday where we are doing SS1 Rescue Skills.

Ocean Diver Students

There is a lecture at 18 Victoria Park Sq., 8:15pm: OT5 – Going Diving. Please make sure you are on time as it is difficult to get into the building if you are late.

Rita will be taking the lecture.

** All Students **

Please bring your qualification cards along to all lectures and pool sessions and make sure you get them signed off when each skill is completed successfully. If they do not get signed off at the time it can be difficult to track back to confirm that you have indeed passed that particular skill.

The best place to do this is directly after a lecture or, if you have had a pool session, then in the pub afterwards.

Can all instructors make sure they leave enough time to sign student books at the end of a lecture instead of leaving it till the next week.

Open Water Training Days

As mentioned last week, we have set the following open water training dates so far:

3^rd/4^th May (Sat/Sun)

31st May/1st June (Sat/Sun)

24^th June (Tue)

It is important that you clear these dates in your diary to ensure that you can get your 5 or so open water dives done (you will need at least 2 days to do this). Please book with Rob ASAP to ensure we know how many instructors are required and to save you a place.

Octopush

We had 11 turn up for octopush and everyone had a great time! Not knowing the rules didn’t seem to dent anyone’s enthusiasm any!

I have (hopefully) posted some pics to the website for your amusement!

Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos Photos

I am looking forward to trying it myself next month now that I am over my cold.

Weekly News Letter - 13th January 2008

O2 Course

Congratulations to all those who attended the O2 course. All attendees passed!!

Open Water Dates

Can all students please put these dates into your diaries and book on these days with Rob Wilkins:

3/4^th May with Rob and Rita

31^st May/1^st June with Michele

24th June with Rob

Octopush

Bring your snorkel, mask and fins for Octopush fun tomorrow. I would suggest bringing some thick gloves too as some people don’t always hit the squid when they aim for it!

Weekly News Letter - 6th January 2008

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all have a good break over the festive period and are eager to get back to diving – I know I’m looking forward to all the things we have planned this year!

Sports Divers

Rob W is teaching lecture SD2 on Monday 7th at 8.15pm. As well as the Sport Diver trainees anyone who holds a Ocean Diver+ qualification and who wants to catch up on a bit of basic First Aid or Resus Annie training can attend if they give Rob a quick call first.

Ocean Divers

A quiet week back for you as there is no formal pool session scheduled but please come along to practice your skills and finish off any items that may be outstanding from your training.

New Officers

Rob W is seeking to finally hand over the role of club Training Officer from April onwards. If anyone would be interested please speak to him ASAP.

It is a predominantly organisational role and the Club is currently well-blessed with a helpful bunch of instructors. Rob will provide as much help as the new incumbent requires.

Oxygen Administration Course

The Oxygen Administration Course will run next Sunday. We have 7 participants so far but can accommodate more.
The course stands alone as a BSAC skill development course but also covers the first half of the theory course for Dive Leader. This may be your only chance to cover this area in the foreseeable future.

Please contact Rob W. ASAP if you wish to participate - cost about £25 including a fantastic lunch. Course materials
will need to be ordered on Tuesday.

The current list of participants are:

Tom
Konrad
Alex
Evan
Julie
Hamish
Richard

If we have missed you off the list, please accept our apologies and call Rob as soon as possible to let us know you are coming.

Octopush

Don’t forget that next week is Octopush week. I am sure you are all looking forward to it, I know I am. Just snorkels, mask and fins required (plus swimming costume of course!).

Weekly News Letter - 17th December 2007

Ocean Diver Students

Julie will be taking the lecture this evening. OT4 – Planning to go Diving will be held at 18 Victoria Park Square at the usual time of 8:15pm

Sports Diver Students

SOR/1 is a refresher which you are taken through to make sure that your skills are up to date and ready to start the Sports diver course. Please be at the pool in good time to start at 8:30pm.

Holiday Break

There will be no pool session next week or the following week. We will be back on the 7^th for sports lecture ST2 and ocean diver pool session.

Have a good holiday season break and see you all in the new year!

Weekly News Letter - 9th December 2007

Ocean Diver Students

There is a pool session this week. Please make sure you are at the pool by 8:15pm so we can assign you an instructor.

Sports Diver Students

There is a lecture this week at 18 Victoria Park Square. If you are a qualified Ocean diver then you should be attending this course.

Michele Stokes will be taking the lecture.

Xmas Party

Don’t forget that the unofficial xmas party is this Saturday.

The table is booked for 8pm at La Forchetta, on Bethnal Green Road. If you would like to come but have not yet booked a place then please contact Brian on brian-gardner@tiscali.co.uk or 07979592806.

Map: http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=534817&y=182689&z=0&sv=E2%200EA&st=PostCode&lu=N&tl=~&ar=y&bi=~&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf

Weekly News Letter - 2nd December 2007

Ocean Diver Course

There is a lecture tonight at 18 Victoria Pk Sq. Please be there at 8:15pm prompt as once we are inside it will be difficult to gain entry.

Sports Diver Course

The sports diver course is finally here!

The first lecture will be on the 10^th. Please see the Training Schedule for details.

It is important that you contact me paulmcbride@stanage.me.uk to confirm that you will be attending this course as a lack of interest may result in the course being postponed!

Dive Leader Course

The O2 course is part of the Dive Leader course. All the Qualified/nearly Qualified Sports divers should have booked onto this course. If you have not already done so please contact Paul McBride ASAP.

XMAS Party

Anyone who hasn’t got tickets for the unofficial xmas party yet should contact Brian ASAP as spaces may be limited!

Weekly News Letter - 25th November 2007

Last Week’s News Letter

Apologies if you did not receive last week’s news letter but our mailing list and web host decided to move to a new server and left the mailing list behind. If there is anyone missing from the mailing list (ie reading this on the web site and not receiving this as an email) please register on the mailing list HERE http://lists.hackneydiving.org/mailman/listinfo/news or email me and I will add your address to the list.

Ocean Divers

There will be a pool session tomorrow. Please arrive by 8:15pm and you will be allocated an instructor.

Sports Divers

We haven’t forgotten you, but what with Rob and Rita being away and me sorting out the website/mailing list, I haven’t had time to schedule the lectures. We are hoping for at lease one lecture before xmas, so watch this space.

‘Unofficial’ Xmas Party

As is the tradition, we always have an unofficial xmas party in December. It will be in La Forchetta, on Bethnal Green Road. Please contact Brian Gardner brian-gardner@tiscali.co.uk or 07979592806 to book. It is important that you do this ASAP to ensure that we can get places.

Dive Leaders

We have not had a great response from sports divers who wish to progress to Dive Leader. If you are interested in doing this then please contact me to let me know. If we get a reasonable interest we will run a course early next year

Exam Congratulations

Congratulations go to Hamish and Taryn who passed their Nitrox test last week and are now fully fledged Sports Divers (once Rita has signed them off of course).Paul McBride and Jon Perks both took their Theory Instructor Exam last week. Paul has passed and we are still waiting for the results for Jon.

Oxygen Administration Course

As was mentioned at the open meeting, we are running an O2 course on 13^th January. This course is aimed at those Sports divers who wish to progress to Dive Leader. It is also a very useful course in its own right and you get a certificate as an O2 administrator. If you are Sports level or just below (nearly signed off) please book onto this course. It is loads of fun, cheap £25 approx, you get fed lovely food and you learn lots!

Contact one of the committee members to book

Will & Charlotte

Congratulations to Will and Charlotte who are welcoming Jack Oscar Norman into their family!

He was born on 18 11 2007. He weighed 7lb13.5. Despite a forceps delivery both Jack and Charlotte were fine.

I know you will all join me in wishing them all the best and we hope you two got lots of sleep over the last few months because you are probably won’t get much over the next few months!

Weekly News Letter - 18th November 2007

Open Meeting

There was a good turnout to the open meeting. I hope everyone found it useful and informative. Thanks to Katie from the BSAC London region for turning up and explaining how BSAC can help the club.

Ocean Diver

There is an Ocean diver lecture OT2 tomorrow. Please meet at 18 Victoria Park Square at 8:15pm. If you cannot find the place please call Paul McBride on 0788 161 4373. Here is a map http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=535118&y=182908&z=1&sv=victoria+park+square&st=6&tl=Victoria+Park+Square,+London,+E_2&searchp=newsearch.srf&mapp=newmap.srf

Notice that the road runs down the side of the park opposite York hall. No 18 is about half way down.

Oxygen Administration Course

Contact one of the committee members to book.

Octopush

If you are interested in having a go (see schedule for when we are doing the first session) please let Paul McBride know.

Sports Divers

We are just putting together the sports diver dates for lectures and are hoping to get a lecture done before xmas. Watch this space.

Un-official Xmas Party

Don’t miss the official xmas party. Here is a message from Brian:

The un-official christmas party will be on sat 15th Dec.

It will be in La Forchetta, on Bethnal Green Road.

Could you ask people to let me know if they want to come, as I need to book a table in the next couple of weeks.

They can e-mail me, brian-gardner@tiscali.co.uk or phone me on 07979592806.

Pool

Please use the pool as you are paying for it. Remember practice, practice, practice.

Weekly News Letter - 11th November 2007

Open Meeting

Firstly I’d like to remind you all that the open meeting is tomorrow, in the Approach Tavern at 8:15pm. We will be talking about what the club has been doing recently and what we intend to be doing over the next 6 months. If you have any helpful views or ideas on how we can improve things then please bring your ideas along.

It is important that all club members come and join in, remember that it is your club and the more we all participate the better the club will get!

There will be no pool session this week.

Club Dives for 2008

The web site has been updated with next year’s dive list. It is important that we get these dives booked up as early as possible. If we get the commitment from club members early we can book more dives. Please bring your cheque books tomorrow and start writing post dated cheques!

Oxygen Administration Course

There is an O2 course on Sunday 13^th January. This will be held at Michele’s house and will be an all day event. If you are a sports diver and wish to progress to Dive Leader then this is an essential part of your course. If you are nearly a Sports diver then talk to Rob about what you need to do and whether you can go on this course. It is a really useful course and you get a separate Oxygen Administration badge for completing it!

Costs will be about £25 (TBC) which is extremely good value for money. Plus there is always great food at Michele’s house, not to mention that everyone has a great time (except Paul Connaughton who usually sleeps through the whole thing).

Gosport Trip

All Gosport divers should now know how they are getting to Gosport and where they are staying. You should also have all your SCUBA gear for the trip. Remember that you will require two cylinders. If you have not sorted these out already then you must contact Rob immediately. Currently we do not know how Tom, Richard and David are travelling, could you please call Rob and let him know, so that he ca stop worrying.

* Spare Place * I cannot make the Gosport trip so my space is now available to anyone else who wants to go! Please call Rob on 07932663737 to book this place ASAP.

No Pool

No club session this week as it is a bank holiday. See you all next week.

Sports Diver Theory Exam

The sports diver theory exam will be held on the 3^rd September. Please bring your tables with you. If you have missed a lesson please contact Rob to get this done ASAP so that you can take the test.

Good luck.

Dorset

As with all trips, please make sure that you know how you are getting to Dorset (who you are sharing a car with) and where you are staying. Please also make sure that you have all your kit before you go (collect what you need after the pool session the prior Monday). David is arranging the trip so any trip specific questions should be directed at him.

Farnes Next June

Rob has now booked two boats for the Farnes in June so if you haven’t already booked on please do so. With 24 of us there it should be a hoot!

Those that are already booked on please bring cheques next week, made out to Rob Wilkins and dated 6^th June 2008. If not then you can post your cheque to him.

Weekly News Letter - 19th August 2007

Ocean Divers

Congratulations to Evan, Will and Susie who all passed their Ocean Water Theory exam. Even and Will are now qualified Ocean divers with Susie just needing to finish her Open Water training.

Next thing (apart from going diving) is to start the Sports Diver training. Although we do not have a set schedule posted yet, please come to the pool and either practice your skills or get in with an instructor to start the Sports Diver pool sessions.

Well done all.

Sports Divers

There are students who have missed lectures but no one has contacted Rob to book a catch up lecture. Please contact him asap to book these or you may have to wait until we run the next set of Sports Diver lectures.

If you wish to take your theory exam tomorrow (and have done all your lectures) then please contact Rob to let him know on 07932663737. The next date for the theory exams is 3^rd September as the 27^th is a bank holiday and we do not meet on bank holidays.

Gosport Trip 1^st/2^nd September

Please pick up your equipment for Gosport tomorrow as we do not meet on Bank Holidays. Make sure you know who you will be travelling with and where you will be staying. Details about the boat and start times will be posted nearer the date. If you are having problems finding a lift or you have spaces to fill in your car (and share the cost of travelling) then please post here (news@hackneydiving.org) or contact Ann or Rob.

Farnes Trip

The weather in the Farnes over the weekend was terrible and there was no chance to do any diving. Lee, the skipper, called the dive off on Wednesday to save us all the long drive.

I am sure you were all as disappointed about the cancellation, but Rob has been on the phone to Lee and booked a June dive next year (6^th to 8^th), where priority will be given to those divers booked onto the cancelled trip this weekend. You will be given back your deposit cheque and will need to provide Rob with another deposit cheque (forward dated) to confirm your place.

Rob can get a second boat for this date if there are enough takers but this will require enough people to place their deposits to make this doable. All those who want to go on this fantastic trip, please contact Rob asap and send/bring in your cheques.

I know you are all itching to get in the water so please see the Dorset trip details below!

Please remember to bring back your borrowed club gear for tomorrow’s pool session. It will also be needed by the Gosport divers! All those bringing the equipment back tomorrow will not be charged for the equipment hire (but you will if you keep it for another week!).

Dorset Trip

Don’t forget that we have a Dorset trip arranged for the 22^nd/23^rd September. One day’s shore diving followed by 1 day on a hard boat. As we are doing shore diving we can accommodate more than the standard 12 divers. Rob is also planning to get an evening dive done on the Friday. There has also been the mention of a bar-b-q so it should be fun!

Please contact David or Ann to book on this dive!

Dover Dive

Yung had booked the Nautilus for a Dover Dive. This is suitable for experienced Sports Divers and is usually really good diving. Please contact Yung on 07957828828 to book a place. Be prepared to get up early though as we are normally on the boat by 5:30am.

Weekly News Letter - 12th August 2007

Ocean Divers

Ocean divers will be doing their theory exam tomorrow. You can either take the exam in place of a pool session or do the exam in the pub afterwards. Mic will be on hand should you wish to do a pool session.

Wil will be taking OT7 as a catch up lecture with Rita at 18 Victoria Park Sq at 7:15pm

Good luck with the exam guys – just read the diving manual, the student notes and have a go at the online paper www.bsac.org and you will be fine.

Sports Divers

If you have missed a lecture, please let Rob know so that we can organise a catch-up lecture for you – which will take place on the 20^th. There are no lectures this week.

The Nitrox lecture should have taken place last Tuesday. If you missed this please let Rob know as the workshop on the 20^th is no longer being run.

The Dry Practical SP1 will not take place tomorrow. We have decided that it will be better to run this at the Farnes so that you can immediately put this lesson into practice. For those of you not going to the Farnes, we will run the lecture on your next open water dive.

SS/1 will be completed in the pool this week, for those not signed off on it.

Farnes

If you require equipment for the Farnes, please collect it after the end of the pool session. Take empty cylinders if possible to save the club hassle and yourselves money!

Paul McBride will be travelling up to the Farnes with Rob and Rita so has arranged for David Gates to take the equipment he had previously promised to transport. Paul and David will be at the pool on Monday so please Liaise with them to get your kit to the car.

Weekly News Letter - 5th August 2007

Ocean Divers

Although you have finished your lectures remember that the pool sessions are still open to you. If you still have skills to get signed off then let the instructors know by phoning Rob or emailing instructors@hackneydiving.org

Also please contact Rob or Rita to arrange your theory exams. There are example questions on www.bsac.org, doing these and reading the student notes and handbook should ensure that you pass!

Sports Divers

Paul McBride will be taking the ST6 – Going diving, at 7:15pm 18 Victoria Park Square. David, will you be there to let us in?

The pool session will continue SS/1 Rescue skills so leave your cold at home!

Open Water Training

All those going on the open water training on the 12^th, please make sure you take suitable kit at the end of the pool session tomorrow (Regs, BC and Cylinder – you should have your own mask, fins and weights).

Misc

Rob has a spare purple student workbook binder with dividers for anyone who wants it. First come first served.

Weekly News Letter - 30th July 2007

Ocean Divers

The Nitrox workshop will be held in the Approach Tavern tonight at 7:15pm. Al Alan will be taking this. I suggest meeting round the back (by the lady’s loo) as it is quieter back there.

Sports Divers

Julie is taking lecture ST5 – Air Planning and Systems. This is to be held at David’s flat. Please meet outside York Hall unless you have already arranged with Julie to meet at the flat. In either case, please make sure that you are at David’s by 7:15pm as there is a pool session afterwards (which will either be SOR/0 or SS/1).

Dover Trip This Weekend

If you are on the Dover trip this weekend and need club gear please make sure that pick this up after the pool session.

If there are any sports divers who wish to go on this trip, please call Anne ASAP as there are still places available T: 07950196983.

Lost Weight

Rob still has a lost weight in his bag. If anyone has lost this, please contact him.

Contacting the Instructors

If you wish to contact any of the club instructors you can now do so by emailing instructors@hackneydiving.org ; all the club instructors are on this mailing list .

For Sale/Wanted etc

If you have any items for sale or you require diving equipment (or advice) then feel free to email news@hackneydiving.org (this mailing list). There are at lease 70 other divers here who can help you.

Trip Reports

The Scapa trip report has not materialised yet (*cough* Rob *cough*). I will post it to the website when it arrives.

Weekly News Letter - 22nd July 2007

Ocean Divers

Please meet at the Approach pub (where we usually meet after the pool) at 7:15pm for your final lecture OT7 – Going Diving. Paul McBride will be taking the lecture.

There is a pool session afterwards so please be prompt.

Sports Divers

Rita is taking ST4 – Deeper Diving. The lecture will take place at David’s house but please meet outside York Hall at 7ish. The lecture is quite a long one and you need to get back to the pool for SOR0 pool session by 8:30pm.

Dover Dives

There are places available on the Dover Dives for the 4^th and 5^th of August. These are great dives and plenty of fun. You need to be a sports diver and the start is quite early 5:30am tbc but if you can make it there are plenty of interesting wrecks to dive and it is always enjoyable.

Please contact Anne expeditions@hackneydiving.org to book on the dive asap.

Trip Report – Scapa Flow

We had 11 fantastic dives in the Orkneys, good vis. And great big battleships to swim around.

Much fun was had by all with a couple of us having a little too much fun and excitement, the details of which will be in the trip report, once Rob writes it up.

We will try to get some pictures up on the web site asap.

Weekly News Letter - 13th July 2007

Ocean Divers

Michele will be taking the Lecture this week, OT6 – What Happens If...? Please meet outside 18 Victoria Park Square as usual 7:15pm

Mic Gee will be taking the Pool session. Please be changed and ready at the kit box by 8:25pm

Sports Divers

This week is the last free practice session before we start the rescue skills so please make the most of the pool access.

Orkney Trip

As mentioned last week, there is a club trip to Scapa Flow this week so many of us will not be there on Monday. If you are wondering what is so good about Scapa Flow, you can read our trip report from 2003 http://www.hackneydiving.org/Trips/scapa_flow.htm , or check it out on the web.

Equipment Found

Rob has found a yellow weight in his dive kit, if you have lost it please give him a call.

Next Week

Paul McBride will be taking the Ocean Diver OT7 lecture next week.

Sports Divers, please read up on your lecture ST4 as it will help if you have already familiarised yourself with the contents of this lecture.

See you all next week.

Weekly News Letter - 9th July 2007

Ocean Divers

Rita is taking OT5 – Going Diving. Please meet outside 18 Victoria Park Square at 7:15pm. Pool session at 8:30pm as usual.

Sports Divers

Julie is taking ST3 – Equipment and Technique. Please meet outside 18 Victoria Park Square at 7:15pm. Pool session at 8:30pm for your SOR/0.

Next Week

There is a trip to Scapa flow next week and many of the instructors will be away.

The sports divers should use the pool for more free practice; bring DSMB & reels, a buddy and practice, practice, practice.

Ocean divers should be having a lecture but the instructor is still TBA. I will post an email with updated details later in the week.

Ann will be taking OT4 tomorrow. Please meet outside 18 Victoria Park Square at 7:15pm. Brian will be taking you for the Pool session.

SOR/0 has been moved to next week. Please use this week as a free practice session.

If you are going on the Stoney Code dive on Thursday or the Eastbourne dive on Saturday, please make sure that you have equipment for the dives (Reg, BC, Cylinders etc). Please collect any club equipment you need immediately after the pool session. It is important that you give priority to the trainees going on the Stoney Cove trip as they will need the kit first. Rob will ensure that the kit is delivered to you on Saturday. Please make him aware if you need this kit brought from Stoney Cove (just in case he forgets!).

There is also one extra space available for the Eastbourne dive. This is suitable for one qualified Ocean Diver or above. Please contact Rob ASAP.

Lecture at 7:15pm 18 Victoria Park Square: OT3 - The Body & The Effects of Diving. Please meet outside York Hall at 7:10pm. If you are late you will need to phone Julie to get into the building.

Pool session afterwards. Please be changed and by the kit box with £2 for air by 8:30pm at the latest.

Lecture at 7:15pm 18 Victoria Park Square: ST2 – Diver Rescue. Please meet outside York Hall at 7:10pm. If you are late you will need to phone Rita to get into the building.

Pool session afterwards. Please be changed and by the kit box with £2 for air by 8:30pm at the latest. This is a free practice session to get finished off anything outstanding (grab an instructor) or just practice skills with a buddy.

Can everyone, Ocean and Sports students, and all other divers who can make it please be outside York Hall at 8:20pm to help carry the equipment back to the pool after the weekend’s diving. Your help would be much appreciated by the people bringing the equipment back and generally speeds things along.

On a similar note, at the end of the evening, can everyone please exit the changing rooms by the pool side rather than the changing room entrance, just in case there is equipment to be taken out of the building (for cylinder refills, repairs, trips etc). Many thanks.

Yung has offered an additional open water training trip for two students on the 14^th July. You will need to contact Rob to arrange this. Yung will also need a lift from the Bethnal Green area on the day. Yung will also expect you to know what training you want to get done so please bring your student qualification books.

A fantastic time was had by all at the Farnes. Weather was supposed to be terrible but turned out just fine. Some new wrecks were bagged, Some people say Octopus for the first time and Andy was nearly eaten by a very interested Seal – OK, he was well and truly sniffed!

York Hall are not being very helpful with room hire at the moment so the current Ocean and Sports Lectures will be held at a new venue; 18 Victoria Park Square, just round the corner. Details are:

18 Victoria Park Square, London E2 9PF. This office building overlooks the park (that contains the Museum of Childhood). From the Pool, turn left up Old Ford Road, cross the zebra crossing and turn right down Victoria Park Square. The building is on the right.

Please collect outside York Hall Pool at least 5 minutes before the lecture, unless otherwise instructed. If you are late then you will need to phone Paul McBride 0788 161 4373 if you are on the ocean diver course or Rob Wilkins 07932 663 737 if you are on the sports diver course, as we will need to let you into the building. Please do not be late!

Ocean Diver Lecture OT2 - Diving Equipment and Diving Signals & Pool Session

As stated above please meet outside the pool at 7:10pm at the latest. As always, please bring your qualification books.

There will be a pool session after the lecture for free practice, just in case you are a little rusty. Please kit up (allow the Ocean diver students first access to club kit) and get wet!.

Can all those on the Farnes trip this weekend coming please ensure that they collect their cylinders (2 each) from the club after the pool session (and any other gear you are borrowing). Please note that we no longer lend weight belts or weights.

Can all those interested in doing a Dive Leader course please contact Rob. WE are intending to run one over the next 2-3 months.

Rob is booking an extra dive day. Details are: This is a Saturday dive in Eastbourne. Midday start, 22m wreck followed by a drift. Costs £42. You must call Rob tomorrow if you wish to go on this dive. This dive is subject to interest, and we also need to confirm to the skipper by tomorrow so please call Rob on his mobile 07932 663 737 to book a place.

Congratulations to all those who attended this weekend’s open water training. We had 6 trainees on the Saturday and 8 on the Sunday. Rob tells me that you go stacks done, so a big pat on the back all round.

Many thanks also to the trainers Michele, Al, Brian and Rob for spending your time and money to do the training.

The new training schedules are posted on the web site. Please make sure that you make yourself aware of the dates and times. I suggest you print the timetable out so that you do not miss anything. We are running both Ocean and Sports Diver courses with lectures starting at 7:15pm followed by a pool session.

Ocean diver lecture OT1 starts at 7:15pm. Please meet behind reception. Lectures to be held in the bar area. Please be on time (preferably early!).

8.30pm – 10.30pm Pool/Exams (depending on above) – exams can be moved to following week if required.

The 4^th will just be a pool session as we are short of instructors. Please use the time to practice your skills in the pool.

We have a couple of try divers this week, I’m sure you will all make them feel welcome.

The theory test will be held on the 11^th June. This will start at 8:30pm be in place of the pool session. So those who have just finished their Ocean and Sports diver courses should get reading! All the information you need should be in your course notes, the Diving manual and you can also test yourself on the bsac website.

Also on the 11^th we will be running a Nitrox workshop for all the Ocean and Sports Divers. This will start at 7:15pm. Please make sure you arrive on time so that you can finish in good time for your theory tests.

The new ocean diver lectures for our new beginners will start at 7:15pm on 11^th June. Please arrive promptly and wait behind the reception area.

Please bring your qualification books down on the 11^th for the instructors and DO to sign your qualification cards. Rita should be on hand to sign you off if you have completed the course and passed your theory exam.

Don’t forget that there are two days open water training on the 10^th and 11^th June. Please make sure that you collect your cylinders, mask, weights, regs and BCD, at the pool after the Monday 4^th session, if you are going on this weekend training.

The new training courses are set to start on the 11th June (This date to be confirmed). The weekly new letter should have up to date details. I will update the website with the new schedule once it has been finalised.

The AGM will be held in the main hall. We have the hall from 8- 8.30, (although we have to wait for a class to finish at 8 in the hall before we can get in).

If any of you are interested in getting more involved in running the club (your help would be warmly received!) please contact a committee member and get your name put forward. You can also put your name forward at the AGM.

These members will be responsible for miscellaneous duties such as the recruitment of new members, organising social events for club members, etc.

Ocean Divers: please note that OT6 (30/04/07) has been moved to the earlier time of 7:15pm and a Pool has been after the lecture. Please make sure you arrive promptly (or a little early) to ensure that the lecture can finish on time and you are not late for the pool session.

Sports Divers: the schedule now shows your pool sessions. Is it vital that you finish SOR/0 and SS1 pool sessions before starting your open water training. Please also note that the lectures for the 16/04/07 and 30/04/07 now start at 7:15pm as there is a pool session after these lectures.

Open Water Training: We still only have two students who have booked onto the open water training sessions. You must book the open water training sessions with Rob Wilkins ASAP in order to be able to attend. Please make sure you do this the next time you are at the club!

The HSAC Weekly news letter has been well received and I hope you all find it informative. If you do not receive the news letter, it is because you are not on the mailing list. To keep in touch with club events it is important that you are on the mailing list. You can join the mailing list by clicking here .

If there are any news Items you would like included in the news letter, please email me at 'webmaster@hackneydiving.org'. Alternatively, you can email directly to the mailing list news@hackneydiving.org . Please note that you must be subscribed to the list in order to email to it (that means the email address you are sending from must be on the list).

The xmas party will be held on the Friday 23th February 2007. This year looks like being a great party and fantastic value to boot!

Dinner and Dance on the Thames
Friday, 23 February 2007, 8pm – 1.30am
HMS President, The President Suite, Victoria Embankment, London
Nearest station: Blackfriars and Temple
3 course hot buffet meal with waiter service
Dinner served at 9pm
Dress: Smart casual
Price: £20 members, £25 non-members
Tickets in advance only
Contact Rita on 07932 795041 to buy tickets

The Dive dates for 2007 are now available - see the Dive Schedule page for the full list.

It is important that you book early for these dives as they will be offered to other divers/clubs 3 months before the

Hackney Diving SCUBA Club

London based branch of the British Sub-Aqua Club

Club Notes and News