PESGB December 2019
Plus much more inside
It has been a privilege and a pleasure …
Since my election to PESGB Council, the last two years appear to have passed in the blink of an eye. I started my year in office as President hopeful that there would be a tangible upturn in business and operational activity for our industry. The public’s questioning and opposition to fossil fuels is becoming increasingly vocal and has gained traction across the political spectrum. This head wind is likely to continue as our industry adapts and evolves to accommodate future market forces. However, I am confident that the talent of our members will find innovative solutions to the challenges ahead.
The PESGB has been greatly affected by the industry downturn with our membership falling from over 6300 in 2014 to around 4000 in 2019. This decrease has sharpened the PESGB’s focus on continuing to provide a compelling service for its members. During 2019, the Society has convened a full and diverse programme of evening lectures and meetings (including SIGs and Regional Branches), training courses and conferences. The move to Victoria in February of this year has provided the PESGB with excellent training and networking facilities.
In addition to these events, the momentum of previous years’ outreach activities (GEOLiteracy) has been maintained in 2019. In May, Dr Steve Etches, MBE, delivered the Stoneley lecture in London, Birmingham and Aberdeen. With a combined audience in excess of 458, Steve provided a fascinating and captivating history of his world class collection of dinosaur fossils.
The success of the PESGB is due in great part to those volunteers that contribute to the SIGs. Of particular note are the ‘Young Professionals’ whom have developed a dynamic and engaging programme of events. It is this cohort that will be instrumental in defining the future direction of the PESGB. From what I have seen thus far, it is heartening to witness an enthusiastic and engaged commitment to the PESGB.
The PESGB is run on a day to day basis by the Executive Director, Maria Iredale. Throughout the course of the year Maria has very effectively managed the ‘business’ side of the Society together with a challenging recruitment programme to ensure the PESGB is well positioned for 2020. The work conducted by Maria and her office colleagues is much appreciated by me and my Council colleagues. I should also take this opportunity to thank Rosy Chirayath (Marketing) who is leaving the PESGB to go solo travelling in South and Central America. Rosy has been with the PESGB since 2013 and has been instrumental in ensuring the success of the PESGB’s big events.
I have been extremely fortunate to have worked alongside a dynamic and creative group of Council colleagues. Thank you for all your help and support. I would like to single out two of my colleagues, Gavin Ward (Treasurer) and Tracey Dancy (Communications Director). Both are standing down having served collectively eleven years on Council – their voluntary efforts and contributions are much appreciated! My successor is Beverley Smith and I look forward to supporting her and her new Council in 2020.
Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the Granite City Reception on the 3rd December, but I wish you well and hope you have a great night! Meanwhile in London, with PROSPEX 2019 (11 and 12 December) and the President’s Evening (12 December) yet to come, I hope to catch up with you then. If not, then I wish the PESGB membership a very happy Christmas and a successful 2020.