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DWT AGM 2012

Saturday 3 November 2012

The Conference Centre at St Cuthbert’s,
Buckfast Abbey

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the foundation of Devon Wildlife Trust. In addition to the formal business of the AGM in the morning, we will be celebrating our special anniversary.

In the afternoon we will look to the future with talks on Devon's Living Seas.

Harry Barton, DWT's Chief Executive explains:
'2012 is a critical year for the future of marine wildlife. In December, the government will be setting out plans for a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), where the richest and rarest habitats will be safeguarded. At the moment only a tiny proportion of our seas enjoy any real protection. MPAs are a once in a generation opportunity to put this right.

There is now a real danger that the government's proposals will fall far short of what is needed. The marine environment is under greater pressure than ever, and failing to act decisively would be a disaster. That is why DWT's top priority is to persuade government that a comprehensive and properly protected network of marine sites is essential, and cannot wait.

We will provide a window on Devon’s stunning marine wildlife, show how we are fighting for its protection in this most critical year, and show how you can help make a difference.'

LATEST NEWS - We are delighted that Monty Halls (marine biologist, well-known for TV series The Fisherman's Apprentice and Monty Halls' Great Escapes) will be at the Devon Wildlife Trust AGM on Saturday as our keynote speaker. An entertaining and knowledgeable speaker, Monty Halls will be sharing with us his enthusiasm for the marine environment. Please note that there has been a change to the advertised programme - Monty Halls will now be speaking in the morning.

The Venue

Situated halfway between Plymouth and Exeter, the conference centre is set within the tranquil grounds of Buckfast Abbey, just off the A38. The venue can be reached by bus or, if arriving by car, there is ample free parking. Refreshments will be served in the attractive dining room with a view of the Abbey. There is easy access to all facilities.

For more detailed directions visit the Buckfast Abbey website or phone the DWT office (01392 279244) if you would like directions posted to you.

Booking

The AGM is free to members but you are asked to register in advance and to book lunch, if required, by Monday 29 October. Lunch costs £12.50pp.

ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED - PLEASE BOOK BY MONDAY 29 OCTOBER

Booking options:

post - Download and fill out the booking form below. Please post to Devon Wildlife Trust
phone - call DWT on 01392 279244
online - For lunch guests please register a place and pay for your lunch with the online payment form (please note that this method will require you to enter your personal details twice. This is because card payment details must be taken on a separate secure page)
online - For non-lunch guests, please email the DWT Supporter Care team to register a place

AGM booking form and papers

You can download the AGM booking form, AGM Notice and papers here

AGM Programme

10.30am      Welcome and registration. Tea/coffee

11.00am       Annual General Meeting
                    Chaired by DWT President Prof Ian Mercer CBE. See formal agenda.

DWT_50th_Party 11.45am        Open Forum - For questions* regarding DWT issues.

12.00noon    Volunteer Awards

12.15pm        Celebrating 50 years - Prof Ian Mercer CBE

12.30pm        Lunch – please book in advance

2-course buffet lunch.   A range of hot dishes, cold meats, savouries and salads, followed by three choices of dessert. Cost £12.50pp (price includes tea/coffee)

2.00pm         Devon’s Living Seas: fighting for the future
                     •    a window onto Devon’s marine wildlife
                     •    the need for action – now
                     •    how you can make a difference
                      Followed by questions

3.15pm          End

* OPEN FORUM QUESTIONS - To ask your questions please send them to Sarah Loweth at the DWT office by 29 October. Questions on the day will be taken at the discretion of the Chair.