Northants News 17.3 Winter 2006

I have attended all six of the Society Conventions, starting with Manchester in 1987, followed by three held at Reading during the 1990’s and, more recently, the two at Loughborough. I made some notes at all of them so I could recall the details, and when I had finished writing up those for Loughborough 2006, I went back to the earlier ones. Here are some thoughts based on my reminiscences...

All six conventions offered unrivalled opportunities to enjoy presentations from prominent field botanists, explorers and photographers of succulent plants from many countries. Overall thirty-seven speakers have regaled us with details of new discoveries, new understanding of plant habitats, the finer details of pollination mechanisms, propagation, protection measures and conservation strategies. Some also presented reappraisals of taxonomy and evolutionary relationships and many speakers happily provided locality data and tips for travellers planning to find their favourite plants in the field. Contacts were established, friendships founded, and earnest discussions started in the bar were continued into the small hours: these interchanges were characterised by friendly enthusiasm, from amateurs and professionals alike.

The presentations were complemented by plant and book sales, specialist interest groups’ information stands and unique exhibitions relevant to the world of cacti and succulenti. For me there were many highlights: Desmond Cole speaking on Lithops and John Lavranos on Somalia (1987), Werner Rauh on his explorations in Peru & Chile (1990) and in Madagascar (1994), Anton Hofer extolling the virtues of Ariocarpus and Bob Wallace telling us about Cactus DNA (1998), Pierre Braun investigating Brazil and Carlos Ostolaza explaining the history of Cacti and the Ancient Peruvians (2002), and finally Graham Williamson on his extensive South African field-work at three conventions (1984, 2002 and 2006). Not only did I value the opportunities to hear enthusiasts from around the world, but also I was able to converse with them informally at mealtimes, or over a drink in the bar. Two of the special displays also came to mind: ‘Salm-Dyck – Prince of Succulents’ staged in 1998 and Derek Tribble’s wonderful collection of Adromischus in 2002.

However these events now seem less popular than we might hope; why should this be the case? The cost is terrific value; as anyone who books hotels will endorse. The range of subject matter should appeal to novice and expert in different ways, but all the presenters have been worth hearing, either to increase our familiarity with particular plants or to stimulate us with new areas of interest. Some may say that the growth of electronic publishing and the connectivity afforded by the internet supplants such gatherings. Certainly the new technology has transformed our hobby and the Society as with many other specialist interest groups. But does it substitute for meeting with those sharing common interests? I think not. Rather it needs to be harnessed to complement them. Society meetings are the lifeblood of a vibrant organisation, whether organised by branches, zones or as national or international events. I congratulate the BCSS for delivering six superb events; they have been high points for me, and I expect for many others too. I earnestly hope that such gatherings continue, but their future depends on the support of the membership at large.

After seven years as your Branch Chairman I have decided to relinquish that responsibility at our 2007 AGM. That does not mean that I intend to sever my connections with the Branch or the Society; rather it will enable me to tend my plants with more diligence and offer my energies in other ways. It also affords the Branch Committee an opportunity for regeneration to maintain momentum and develop new ideas.

The BCSS must exploit new technology and ideas to foster contact and outreach internationally, but it should not lose the essential anchor of personal contact and discussion. These two are facets of a vigorous and thriving organisation I wish all our readers good health for themselves, their nearest, dearest, and their plants in 2007, also I look forward to the next BCSS Convention in 2010.