Reading and District Model Aircraft Club

Minutes of Committee Meeting 17th April 2008

Apologies for absence

Robin Cawsey.

Minutes of meeting of 24th January 2008

Agreed.

Matters arising not elsewhere on the agenda

Meeting venue. The Waterside Centre had been investigated but was too expensive and so for

the time being it was agreed to continue to use the David Lloyd centre.

Car parking: Enquiries were made of the landlords about availability of space in the

contractors area behind the security office. Unfortunately there is not space available and

access is needed through the area. Possible changes to parking in the road have yet to be

resolved but it seems likely that it will remain possible to park on the river side of the road

subject to the existing restrictions

Events at site: This was raised with the agents and they agreed again to advise us when they

are aware. At present the only events are the regattas of which we are already aware

2.4GHz radio: Since the last meeting Futaba had recalled all TM7 modules that do not bear

the I sticker. It was agreed to copy the information to the club website. Attention was drawn

also to a potential issue with the early DM7 Spektrum receivers when the voltage drops too

low. The BMFA news contains an article with possible solutions where this may be a

problem and members were to be reminded of the issues.

Club assets

This topic was raised as the club now has a reasonable sum of money in the bank and also has

other assets such as the frequency scanner. The main issue is the action that would need to be

taken in the event of the demise of the club. Whilst this is not an anticipated event and it is

hoped the club will continue for many years to come, it is important that the club constitution

covers the eventuality.

There was a wide ranging discussion about the arrangements that might be needed and what

might be an equitable method of distributing assets. It was pointed out that whatever

arrangements might be put in place, they needed to be simple, with the simplest being to

divide amongst the membership at the time of the demise. It was agreed that we should

investigate what arrangements others had and also seek advice from the BMFA and it should

be revisited at the next meeting.

Action: Secretary

It was agreed also that a register of club assets should be developed. This would be those

assets other than monies in the bank. The secretary agreed to compiled a register based on

information from the committee. Details should be sent to the secretary

Action: All

Flying Field

The chairman reported that despite number of attempts to contact the Abbey Rugby Club he

was still awaiting a reply. There was further discussion on what we might do and the

possible effects on the club in terms of dividing electric flying from other flying. It was

eventually agreed that we should follow the decision made at the 24th January Committee

Meeting and pursue the possibility of a trial (see minutes of 24-01-2008 meeting for details).

Action: Chairman

Dave Grey reported that training was going well and that we have buddy facilities for 2.4

GHz equipment provided it is Futaba. Therefore if newcomers are thinking of using 2.4 GHz

they should be advised of the facility available and that we do not have a buddy system for

Spektrum equipment. It was agreed that the club did not need to have a policy of advocating

2.4 GHz equipment, though it was always a good idea if asked to suggest equipment

compatible with our buddy systems. It is thought that Spektrum equipment would probably

be compatible with JR, but as the club equipment is Futaba the latter should be

recommended.

Programme of events

There was some discussion about possible events to be held. Neil Viney reported he was still

pursuing Robot Birds. It was agreed to see whether we might get Pete McDermott to give a

talk to which we could invite attendees from other clubs. The secretary reported there was

someone in Basingstoke who now had set up in business supplying equipment for electric

flight who might come and give a talk. All these to be developed for the autumn programme

Cosford on 19 July. Ron and Dave Belcher are arranging this trip. So far 10 have paid with a

further 16 saying they will pay. A 49 seat coach is available and members are encouraged to

book through Ron.

Enstone. Dave Grey reported that there will be a fly-in for club members only at Enstone on

28th June with the annual event being on 19th July.

Old Warden Dave Grey reported that he would be taking the club trainer to the Schools Day

on 11th June and would be assisted by other club members at the event.

Cholsey The chairman reported that Cholsey would take place on 27th July.

AOB

Paul Joslyn reported that there would be a newsletter shortly.

The club had received a ‘Thank You’ letter from the Air Ambulance for the donation to their

funds.

It was reported Eric Devenney’s wife had died recently. The committee expressed their

condolences to Eric. Ron Perkins was trying to get in touch to find out about arrangements

for the funeral etc. It was agreed that the club would make a donation to a charity if one has

been nominated.

The secretary agreed to email the link to the Southern Area website to Paul Joslyn

Action: Secretary

It was agreed that the club should try to make a visit to the Woodley Museum.

Action: ? (secretary failed to note who agreed to arrange)

Date and time of next Committee meeting

Provisionally July 15th 2008 at 20:00 at Emmer Green Hall. If not convenient, will be 17th

July at David Lloyd centre. (Post meeting note: secretary will present his apologies as is now

not available for either date)