2026 AGM

ByMichael O'Donnell

The Geelong Historical Society Welcomes the 2026 Committee

The Geelong Historical Society held its Annual General Meeting on 1 April 2026, with 30 members gathering at the Virginia Todd Community Hall for a positive and forward‑looking evening. The meeting confirmed the minutes of the previous year and received both the President’s and Treasurer’s Reports, each highlighting a year of strong activity and continued community engagement.

The president welcoming members to the AGM
A Strong Financial Position

The Treasurer’s Report confirmed that the Society remains in a stable and healthy financial position, supported by early subscription payments and careful management of expenditure. The Society finished the financial year with a surplus and increased total funds, ensuring a solid base for upcoming projects and publications.

Introducing the 2026–27 Committee

With nominations matching available positions, all nominees were duly elected in accordance with the Rules of the Society. The Society is pleased to announce the following office‑bearers:

President: Harry Roberts
Vice President: Mark Thomas
Secretary: Michael O’Donnell
Treasurer: Tony Cust

Committee Members:

Freda Craddock, Pauline Fairfoot, Lana Capon, Peter Fogarty, Coral Turner, and Julia Thomson, will make up the Committee for 2026. Two committee positions remained open for nomination which gives the society options to co-opt members with special skills during the course of the year.

Julia’s election is especially welcome, bringing fresh energy to a committee that blends long‑standing contributors with newer members—an encouraging sign of the Society’s ongoing renewal.

Looking Forward

The President’s Report highlighted a year of growth in communication, community partnerships, and member participation. The Society’s recognition by the City of Greater Geelong for excellence in heritage interpretation, its expanding digital presence, and its continued involvement in local heritage initiatives all point to a vibrant year ahead.

With an experienced committee, strong membership support, and secure finances, the Geelong Historical Society is well positioned to continue its mission of preserving and promoting the region’s history.

Members can find the Minutes of the AGM posted on the society’s website.

Michael O'Donnell has been a teacher in Primary and Secondary schools, in both Victoria and the Northern Territory. In another life he was an adventure travel guide in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. He is the current Web Manager and Secretary of the Society.

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