Asv

[Lux (Justin)]

I recently joined the Astronomical Society of Victoria. The only way I know this has been confirmed is because they have charged my credit card. Otherwise I have heard nothing from them, even though it has been well over a month since joining.

I wasn't expecting much, but I thought I might get a "Welcome Pack" of some description, even if it was a letter and/or a pamphlet highlighting a few of the facilities, clubs, events and services that the ASV offer.

Has anyone else had a similar experience?

[Baddad (Marty)]

Hi Justin,

Sounds down right rude to me. I assume they have your correct address?

Hopefully there's a gremlin in the correspondence department.

Cheers

[Rob_K]

Lux, I think you should wait a while longer as they seem to take a little time to fully process the memberships. I'm a relatively recent member of ASV (about 2 yrs membership) and they have astonished me with what you get for your membership. For a start, there was a membership pack, plus lots of communication and welcome from the Society. Two-monthly glossy mag ("Crux"), printed (and comprehensive) almanac every year, email notification of special events etc. They maintain the Leon Mow Dark Sky Site at Heathcote for the use of members anytime (wonderful facilities, expanding all the time), and have a bank of telescopes for loan to members. There's a big program of meetings & events if you're near Melbourne (I'm not, but I'll cop that!). They also have a good program for new members who are just starting out in astronomy. Then there are all the special interest sections. I can't believe that subs cover everything really, their volunteer input must be huge.

Extremely happy with my membership, I'm sure you'll be the same.

Cheers -

[trek1701 (Mark)]

Well said Rob.

Before we jump to conclusions of people being rude.

Having been membership secretary once myself I found that usually there’s a reason for the delay.
Incorrect details on the application form were the most common.
I’m sure a welcome package will be on its way soon.
Have you tried to contact them at membership@asv.org.au?


Cheers Mark

[Lux (Justin)]

Thanks for your replies. The membership was processed at the start of July. Admittedly I have been away for a few weeks now with work so something may have arrived in the intervening time. I'm hoping to get a little involved in the ATM group, and as they always meet on the 3rd Saturday of the month I would have liked to have heard from them by now (although work might delay longer anyway). I am interested in other sections as well as I am a very new astronomer, so I was hoping to garner some information (any information!!!) before I even buy my first scope!

[Sarge (Rod)]

Justin,
You have joined a really great society. Full of helpful members, activities and resources. NAG (new astronomers group) is well worth joining. 12 months of advice and assistance you just can't get anywhere else.
Sorry to hear you haven't got the response you were expecting, but if I remember back I think mine was a little slow as well. But the society is run by volunteers.
As Mark says, contact the membership secretary and they will sort it all out for you.

Clear skies

Rod

[KenLM (Ken)]

Justin,
Unfortunately the ASV had two people who help process new memberships overseas which has caused a few delays and some communication issues. So I apologise for the situation you have found yourself in. I am working to contact the small group of people that have been affected and let them know the status of their membership applications. This may take another day or two. Please appreciate we are all volunteers doing a job and things will be back to normal soon.

Thank you... Ken
President of the Astronomical Society of Victoria
___________________________________ ___________________________________ __
It doesn't matter what scope you have. What matters is that you use it!

[Lux (Justin)]

Thank you Ken. I appreciate you getting in contact and I look forward to all that the ASV can offer me.

Regards,
Justin