AusBonsai

Hi all. The nearest bonsai club to me is Waverley (Vic). It is about 120 kms, which is no big deal if it is worthwhile. I have seen a few names in this forum who have listed they are members; I am chasing general opinions as to whether it is worth my travel to go along. I am probably just above beginner level although i have been 'dabbling' for about 20 years and have a few trees around that age I have succeeded in keeping alive. I would like to become involved in a club again, as I was in one many years ago around the Chelsea (Vic) area that folded. There were a few people there that went out of their way to make newcomers feel stupid and were very elitist, which is probably why they folded. Bonsai is a hobby, it is fun but it is not life and death. I have been a paramedic for 35 years - THAT deals with life and death, I see bonsai as a relaxing hobby and a pastime with the purpose of taking me away from those stresses - is that how Waverley approaches its charter? I will head along to the next meeting on 17th of this month if folks here can let me know if my philosophies might fit in? thanks heaps, Don.

Give it a go Don, what have you got to loose? I am a strong believer in joining a club as it provides not only friendship but also the opportunity to learn and enjoy activities with like minded people.

Hi Don,
you would not be alone travelling a decent distance to our club . we have members from Sale and Bairnsdale .
we have over 100 members . and most of us are very nice
not every meeting is worth the trip for those that do have to travel a long way . but we do have a years plan set up .
I will look up whats on for you in the next few months and will get back to you with the information.
we have lots of mad bonsai people who would love to welcome you
as you have seen on here. ryan , josh , zyggy and myself.
joann

darn I have no idea whats happening this month at meeting can't find my list.
meeting is next tuesday night . great help i am
will come back with a brain tomorrow night

yes some of the bonsai clubs were elitist and unfriendly many years ago, but I believe Waveley has a nice bunch of members.

Hi Don,

You'd be more than welcome to come along and see what we're all about. Personally I've found members to be friendly and inclusive. The club prides itself on being representative of all levels of experience. We have members as young as 10? (who come along with their parents) right through to members who have been involved with the club since its establishment in 1972. Everyone is encouraged to both participate and help.

Hope to see you along next Tuesday. We've got Trevor Wicks presenting 'Refinement, care and maintenance of Bonsai'

I'll PM you with a bit more info regarding Tuesday 17th.

Best Regards,
Ryan

Would be great to have you along Don. I have found the club to be very friendly and welcoming. My daughter (you were right Ryan) is 10 and comes with me and loves the encouragement she receives from the older members. As mentioned every meeting may not be worth it to you but you would certainly benefit from the ones you attend. The big thing I like with our club is it doesn't matter the stage you are at, everyone is encouraged to take part. I won't be there next week as I'm on school camp with my other daughter, but you'd be welcomed by the others I'm sure.

Josh

Thanks for the responses folks; for those that will be there I will see you then.