Coordinators Report August/Sept 2008

General News

An amazing August - almost 60! computers out the door. All the efforts to promote Computerbank and its services seem to be getting the word out there. From uni's to supermarkets and swap meets - it is all helping.

Nice work from Tony, Cloud and Peter in attending our very first computer swap meet - a success and something to be repeated in the future.

It was really nice to sit back and relax with everyone at the volunteer lunch - thanks to Jan for organising this and to Darce and Jan for being wonderful hosts. Richard suprised us all by pressing photo cd's for everyone - a very nice thought.

There has been a lot of interest in our low maintenance Linux public access networks. We'll probably be doing some networks for highrises in both the west and the north. The networks will be located in community spaces and will be used by residents of the highrises. Our network over in Darebin - although modified over time - is now in its fifth year.

I got to catch up with one of the GHD Shepparton participants - and was very happy to discover all of the Congalese are still using Linux - indeed they love KDE. The person I spoke to had come to Melbourne to purchase two more computers. This person is studying Cert III in IT and said having a Linux computer helps with their study which includes learning Linux.

Computers Out

This time around we have had a big increase of the number of computers out the door to individuals. Only one group - the Human Rights Film Festival, received a computer from us.

July: 42 (includes 7 hallway computers)

August: 59 (includes 1 ebay sale)

September (TD): 3

Year TD:  301

In addition to the computers above, we have also sold around 20 low spec and non-working laptops on ebay.

Donations

No shortage of computers at Computerbank - we just picked up 40 P4 3.0G machines from a company who wishes to keep a low profile. Donations are also coming in steady via the front door on Fridays and Saturdays.

User Support & Training

We are still experiencing low levels of support. Lower numbers of people are attending training so we now run training classes fortnightly or on an as needed basis.

Volunteers

Welcome aboard to new volunteer Aaron. Aaron is lending a hand with the front desk on alternating Saturdays.

Work for the Dole

Our project rolled over on August 27th for another six months. While we first thought our numbers would drop to 10, we have stayed with 12 participants. The project is currently full with most of the participants attending.

Last Thing

Don't forget to help spread the word. Flyers available from http://vic.computerbank.org.au/wiki/ComputerbankPromotions

Finance Overview

We have a very healthy bank balance. Income is also up for the past two months. Ebay sales are ongoing, many larger things have been sold freeing up our space and contributing to our income sources.

Non WFD Income

July: $7843.78

August: $7962.64

Bank Balances as at September 2nd 2008

ING: $54,468.14

Westpac: $1345.86