Conchology Section
Auckland Museum Institute

President's Report
It was a great meeting in June viewing those fascinating creatures under the microscopes. A special "thank you" to Margaret and to all those who brought in microscopes and items to view.

The weather has turned incredibly cold and wet now. It’s a bit too cold for beach walking and shelling! However, sand is being pumped onto St Heliers, so if you are in the area go and take a look! See you on July 11th.

July Meeting
A Trip To The Galapagos Islands:
For our July meeting we are going to take a trip to the Galapagos Islands with Heather. These are remote islands off the coast of South America. It is one of the most pristine places left on earth because it evolved recently in geological terms. The animals have never had predators and so they are not afraid of people and tend to laze on the path instead of moving out of the way. The islands are remote and difficult to get to. Tourist numbers are restricted and only a small population live on the islands, so the animals remain in their natural state.

If you are fortunate enough to have some shells from the Galapagos please bring them in for all to see.

Miniature Shell Show:
For the July meeting we would also request that you select 10 of your favourite shells and arrange and display these on a tray to bring to the meeting. This is one of the categories for the National Show in Wellington next year so here is an opportunity for a practice run! There will be a prize for all those who bring in a tray of shells! Judging will be 20 for quality, 50 for presentation, 20 for variety and 10 for accuracy of labels! (Just kidding about the judging!)

We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday, 11th July 2006 at Epsom Community Centre, 202 Gillies Avenue, Epsom. You are welcome to arrive from 7.00 pm with the meeting commencing at 7.30 pm.

Congratulations to Club Members
Noel & Norm Gardner
Have jointly completed 100 years voluntary service for the Marine Department of the Auckland Museum. The Museum Institute is purchasing a chair in their honour for the new 196 seat auditorium. Donations towards this chair can be made direct to Margaret Spencer at Private Bag 92018, Auckland.

Bruce Haywood
Is now a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services and achievements in earth, science and conservation.

Glenys Stace
Received an Honour award for her book "Blue New Zealand" in the New Zealand Post Book Awards, Non-Fiction category.

Please find enclosed an updated Contact List of Club Members for your records.

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