News and Notices: Difference between revisions

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== Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services ==
== Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services ==
''Item date 24 February, 2014''<br/>
''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/>
* The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed.
* The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed.
* [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page]
* [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page]
* Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace.
* Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace.
* Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more.
* Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more.

== Non-attachment Policy - Reversal ==
''Item date 15 December, 2013''<br/>
* [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed.
* Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known.
* Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki


== Training Room for Hire ==
== Training Room for Hire ==
''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
* The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups.
* The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups.
* Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page]
* Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page]
* We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community.
* We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community.
* An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee.
*The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system.
*The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system.
*Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups.
*Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups.
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== Training Courses for 2014 ==
== Training Courses for 2014 ==
''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/>
* The 2014 program is up and growing fast.
* We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program.
* Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page.
* Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted.
* Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted.
* Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page.
* As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing.
* As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing.
* If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know.
* If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know.
* Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable.
* Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable.
* Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form.
* Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form.


== Help and Advice ==
== PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down ==
''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/>
* per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice].
* The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013
* Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend.
* PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014.
* Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice].


== Non-attachment Policy - Reversal ==
== Member support during the Christmas & New Year period ==
''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
* [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed.
* Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]
* Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known.
* Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period.
* Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki
* We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future.

== Office Manager Position ==
''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/>
* PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance.


== PCUG Office Hours ==
== PCUG Office Hours ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
* The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday.
* The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday.
* The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays.
* The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays.
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* For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]
* For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]
== Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
* Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year.
* New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years.
* [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members]
* draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index]
* note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required

== Welcome New PCUG Committee Members ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
* Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee.
Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/>

== PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 ==
''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/>
* Congratulations to Rod Peters.
* Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page]

== Call For Volunteers ==
== Call For Volunteers ==
'''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r>
'''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r>
* An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers.
* An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers.
*Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG.
*Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG.
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== PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions ==
== PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions ==
''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/>
* What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”.
* What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”.
* It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG.
* It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG.
Line 99: Line 67:


== PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies ==
== PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/>
* The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers.
* The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers.
* The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution.
* The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution.
* The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available.
* The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available.
* Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email.
* Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email.
* The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee.
* The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee.
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== PCUG Website volunteers ==
== PCUG Website volunteers ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
* The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress.
* The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress.
* The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support.
* The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support.
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== PCUG Information Wiki ==
== PCUG Information Wiki ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
* PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012.
* PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012.
* It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login.
* It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login.
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== Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online ==
== Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
* PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program.
* PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program.
* We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts.
* We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts.
* Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.
* Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.
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== PCUG on Facebook ==
== PCUG on Facebook ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/>
* When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth.
* When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth.
* Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas.
* Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas.
* Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review.
* Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review.
* This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback.
* This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback.

== PCUG Member Survey Update ==
''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/>
* you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]]
* Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options.


== TIO ==
== TIO ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/>
PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/>
PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/>
who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/>
who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/>


== E-waste & Recycling Information ==
== E-waste & Recycling Information ==
''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/>
''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/>
* For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the
* For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the
[http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services]
[http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services]

Revision as of 03:23, 24 February 2014

This page contains News and Notices relating to PCUG.
nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.
General information about PCUG is provided on the main PCUG website.
Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki

Training overview is available on the main PCUG website Training Information. Specific Course information is available on this wiki Training Courses.

We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [PCUG Office] for either/or.

Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services

Item date 24/2/2014

  • The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed.
  • Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page
  • Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace.
  • Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more.

Training Room for Hire

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups.
  • Full details are available via our PCUG Training Information page
  • We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community.
  • The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system.
  • Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups.
  • Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [1] for information.

Training Courses for 2014

Item Date: 24/2/2014

  • The 2014 program is up and growing fast.
  • Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki Training Courses page.
  • Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted.
  • As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing.
  • If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know.
  • Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable.
  • Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the Training Team via the contact form.

Help and Advice

Item Date 24/2/2014

Non-attachment Policy - Reversal

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed.
  • Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known.
  • Further general scam and spam awareness information is provided on this wiki

PCUG Office Hours

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday.
  • The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays.
  • Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same.
  • Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers).
  • For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [2]

Call For Volunteers

'Item revised 24/2/2014

  • An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers.
  • Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG.
  • Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [3] to discuss any aspect of this further.
  • Our motto is USERS HELPING USERS. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn.
  • Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [4]

PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions

Item revised: 24/2/2014

  • What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”.
  • It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The Activities and Opportunities area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG.
  • We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the Activities and Opportunities wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[5]

PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers.
  • The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution.
  • The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available.
  • Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email.
  • The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee.
  • Please contact the PCUG Committee [6] or Office Manager [7] with expressions of interest.

PCUG Website volunteers

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress.
  • The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support.
  • Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information.

PCUG Information Wiki

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012.
  • It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login.
  • We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!
  • New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started.

Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program.
  • We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts.
  • Follow the news on the Stay Smart Online website
    The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [8] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.
  • PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [9]
  • The PCUG Facebook Page is another forum of information sharing

PCUG on Facebook

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth.
  • Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas.
  • Like our Facebook page [10]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review.
  • This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback.

TIO

Item revised 24/2/2014
PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [11]
who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.

E-waste & Recycling Information

Item revised 24/2/2014

  • For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the

A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services

Older News and Notices

Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below.