EDITORIALS

Spotlight on the Western Cape Branch SAIMM

SAIMM, and registration of professional engineers. This is held in conjunction with SAIChE. The event is hosted by each of the three institutions in turn and the 'drawcard' comprises either a field trip (such as to the Distell Goudini Distillery), a demonstration (winemaking) or a talk by a leading professional (Dr Ray Shaw and his view on the minerals industry in 2020).

The character of the Western Cape Branch has successfully focused on the universities in the Western Cape. But Cape Town has other attractions, because an increasing number of retired or nearly retired members are moving into the area. The Branch Committee has discussed whether there would be interest in holding an early evening function along the lines of the Johannesburg Branch meetings, at which a topic of interest would be presented followed by drinks. This would be a good occasion for students to meet 'old' industry hands and for the 'old hands' to meet up. It could be held in Cape Town or Stellenbosch.

I would be most interested to hear from those in the Western Cape whether they would attend such a get together.

R.D. Beck
Chairman, Western Cape Branch