April 2020

2020 started off with the AGM in February.
Wayne Richard returned as President, Lyn Collins was elected Vice President and Trevor Norman took on the role of Treasurer.  Jill Richard continued in the role of Secretary.
The committee comprises Bob Smith, Phil Tavender, Julie Meyer, Coralie Hime, Tony Gee, Tony Squire, Margaret Reedman, Mel Sage.
Fees remained unchanged from 2019 and several new members were welcomed.  The Annual Sale planning was proceeding with a planned date of April 18th. 
Then the world was turned upside down with a new virus emanating from China which very quickly became declared a pandemic - Covid-19.  The world as we knew came to a STOP.  Planes ceased to fly, borders within countries were closed and people were no longer free to travel.  "Social Isolation" became the norm for people in Australia and in many countries worldwide.   The Fern Society like all other organisations has had to cancel all meetings until the government mandates that it is safe to resume. 
Australia seems to be leading the way with high rates of testing for people who are showing signs of respiratory illness and anyone who has been in contact with people who have been confirmed as having the illness.  Scientists worldwide are cooperating and working together to find a vaccine and a cure.
One amazing thing that has happened is the improvement in the quality of the air and waterways with the lack of pollution emanating from man made sources.  I am sure the plants are enjoying the atmospheric changes and the greater attention they are receiving from their housebound humans.
I, for one, am finding the withdrawal of opportunities to socialise with friends and groups which I would normally attend for various activities very difficult to adjust to even though I always thought I was happy with my own company - lesson learnt!

Well, we all must soldier on and hopefully come out of this time wiser and stronger and with a greater appreciation for one another and the world.

All being well we are hoping to hold the 2020 Annual Fern Sale in September/October term break.

Stay well, stay safe and keep smiling.