Council
ASSA Council
Current Council
The Council is responsible for the governance and administration of the Astronomical Society of South Australia. Council members are volunteers who help keep ASSA's meetings, observing sites, communications, membership services, outreach, education, publications, and digital systems running for members and the wider community.
Treasurer transition: Stephen White remains listed from the latest Council minutes, with Ian Barrie approved as incoming Treasurer and the handover underway.
Officers
President
Gerhard Velaitis
Chairs Council, represents ASSA, guides strategic priorities, and helps coordinate major Society decisions and projects.
Vice President
Scott Gregory
Supports the President, contributes to key Society activities, and chairs meetings when needed.
Secretary
Ian Furness
Keeps Council records, manages correspondence, supports meeting administration, and responds to general governance enquiries.
Treasurer
Stephen White
Manages ASSA's financial records, payments, accounts, and regular financial reporting to Council during the current handover period.
Membership Officer
Nicola Hughes
Maintains membership records, supports new and renewing members, and reports membership matters to Council.
Communications Officer
Mary Martinaitis
Coordinates member and public communications, including Society notices and campaign-style updates.
Bulletin Officer
Jarrod Rueff
Produces and publishes The Bulletin, ASSA's monthly member publication, and supports publication-related website content.
Website Officer
Scott Gregory
Develops, manages, and maintains ASSA's website presence, including timely publication of relevant content.
Astronomy Outreach Officer
Ian Somerville
Coordinates school, group, and community outreach activities and reports outreach outcomes to Council.
Facilities & Observing Sites Officer
Lyn Grida
Helps keep ASSA observing sites, facilities, equipment, and site access arrangements practical and safe.
Astronomy Education Officer
Colin Hill
Develops and presents astronomy education content for members and the public, including practical beginner support.
Digital Services Officer
David Rowlands
Oversees ASSA's digital services, software, online accounts, and related technical infrastructure.
Young Astronomers' Officer
Position vacant
Develops strategies and programs to engage and support young people interested in astronomy and space science.
Councillors
Councillor
Ken Grant
Provides general Council support and contributes to Society projects, governance discussions, and member services.
Councillor
Bryan Kirchner
Provides general Council support and contributes experience across meetings, member activities, and Society operations.
Councillor
Julie Klau
Provides general Council support and contributes to governance, policy, and current Council project work.
Councillor
Rosemary Prentice
Provides general Council support and contributes to member-facing projects, Society activities, and operational planning.