Hellfins August NewsletterIn this issue:
It's that time of year when most of our energies are given over to diving. Actually diving rather than talking about it or dreaming of it or training for it. This issue is mostly given over to reports from recent trips and at this time of year that's the right thing. That said, Nicky has been busy with the summer party too; there's been plenty of training going on and it's time to think about another competition - this time writing about a favourite dive site. SUMMER PARTY FUNWhat fun we had! Food, drink, prizes and a fantastic auction. Congratulation to Emma, who scooped the prize for best Egg-a-Finner as well for the caption competition. The best bit was the auction. Ian did a great job keeping the bids coming as we went through the vast pile of lots. There were some fantastic bargains: Richard and Phil seems delighted with their ceramic fish; a few people are going to be making nothing but curries for weeks with their Sharwoods hampers; I'm sure well be seeing the brand new pool-shorty from Ocean Leisure on a national instructor soon and lots and lots of stuff made it from people who didn't need it to people who did. As well as having fun, we were there to raise some money for the club. We made £344! If you haven't had a chance yet, drop Nicky (nicky@hellfins.com) a line to say thanks for organising a great time. Big thankyous also go to all those who contributed stuff and those who bid for it. TRIP REPORT: CHANNEL ISLANDS(By Mike. Photos at story in the features section) WRITING COMPETITIONWe have lots of talented writers in the branch, just look at this web site! Dive magazine are running a competition and it makes sense we should enter. You can find a full explanation of the copy and rules at www.divemagazine.co.uk/favouritedive.html. They are looking for a 450-500 words describing a single dive site. There are some great prizes on offer. Entries go to sidlothian@hotmail.com, or just e-mail a URL from something you've done before. I'll put together the package with any photos we've got (or send me some), the GPS, directions etc. TRIP REPORT: LUNDY(By Sid/ photos and story in the features section) TRAINING NEWSDue to popular demand, there will be another Training RIB Trip in late August (August 31/September 1st look favourite). Quite a few people already on the list, so be quick if you've still got to get stuff signed off for Medes...Contact Sid (sidlothian@hotmail.com) for more info. The instructor meeting's Mike has been running over the last few weeks have been excellent. Lots of opportunity to learn from other instructors and swap stories and techniques. There will be another one on September 2nd, this time focusing on Sports Diver Pool Work. They are open to all instructors - so come along and participate. The Life Saver course has finally finished [phew! - ed]. A great opportunity to review and extend your rescue and resuscitation skills. I would recommend it to everyone. TRIP REPORT: STORM(By Nicky. Photos and story in the features section) |