GAC2012 - Now It's Official!

[Logic]

MOD NOTE: This is the thread for all excited discussion about the GAC2012 now it's been officially announced!


Great news. I will seriously consider attending again.

[Podblack]

Best news all day. :)
Just came back from a long walk, where I was wondering about a new job offer I just got (and all torn up about what it'll mean, lots of issues involved) - this was a wonderful thing to open up the computer to. :) Immediately wrote to Jason to interview him for the podcast about the AFA and how simply EVERYONE must go in 2012! :D

[Worldslaziestbusker]

Hooray
Best I avert the end of the world as we know it, then.
Should probably let the rapture happen on schedule, though. Can't be having with christians getting all upset at another GAC.
Matt

[davo]

Can you say

W00t!!

[Podblack]

Last year, for the Amazing Meeting Australia, I funded two students to attend that convention and they ended up winning an additional scholarship and one presented on an outreach panel as well.

For 2012, I'm keen on starting a fund to get two students from WA - one rural, one city - to attend this convention. I'll start by getting the UWA students onto this - with this much notice ahead of time, it shouldn't be difficult to help out some others to attend! :)

[kazzaqld]

Woot indeed !

[Loki]

I can indeed say

W00t!!

[Logic please]

Great to see. :) Nice banner change. ;):D

EDIT: Excuse me... *squints hard* ...is there by chance, a little bit of ornage in that banner??? ;):D:p

[Podblack]

http://images.cheezburger.com/completestore/2011/3/29/7bb3be44-d5dd-4a1b-90ce-019a880e162f.jpg

[davo]

Last year, for the Amazing Meeting Australia, I funded two students to attend that convention and they ended up winning an additional scholarship and one presented on an outreach panel as well.

For 2012, I'm keen on starting a fund to get two students from WA - one rural, one city - to attend this convention. I'll start by getting the UWA students onto this - with this much notice ahead of time, it shouldn't be difficult to help out some others to attend! :)

See this is why you are the awesome Podblack :)

I will put in if you need a hand, just holler. PLEASE don't hesitate to keep me informed.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Mrs DB and I are going. Bloody April though, we will freeze to death in Mel_BUNS! :p

[Praxis]

OHMYDOG!! What a fantastic way to open the forum this morning and see this!!!

Great to see. :) Nice banner change. ;):D

EDIT: Excuse me... *squints hard* ...is there by chance, a little bit of ornage in that banner??? ;):D:p
*ahem* That's not ornage, it's mango. Big difference :p

This is just fantastic. Mega kudos to all those behind the scenes, I have a bit of an idea how damned hard you guys have been working to make this happen.

@Podblack - I second Davo, you are indeed teh awsum :D

*I'd insert an appropriate animated pic here to express my excitement but I'd get in trouble so you'll just have to imagine it*

:):):):):):):):):)

PS: I've signed up, I've liked, and I've w00t'ed it out to the Twitterverse :D

[Pusbum]

Yay I have signed up and shared the link on Facebook. Already had my mates religious mother comment on my link:

But what will they talk about?

[riddlemethis]

Most excellent!! And the date means no clashing with my kids b'days! Yay, all 3 days for me AND the dinner!

[Praxis]

Most excellent!! And the date means no clashing with my kids b'days! Yay, all 3 days for me AND the dinner!
About fecking time there was something that didn't clash for you :rolleyes:

How exciting! Better check if Durro is coming as Askegg's already put his hand up to share an apartment with us (but he may be joking :D ).

[wolty]

We will be there. Just try and stop us. YAY.

[Praxis]

We will be there. Just try and stop us. YAY.
There is no try.

[crocoduck]

Fantastic news. Just bloody fantastic! Waiting on the call for volunteers. Anything. Anything at all.

[Praxis]

Fantastic news. Just bloody fantastic! Waiting on the call for volunteers. Anything. Anything at all.
Yep. Me too :D (well, maybe not anything, otherwise we might find ourselves on dunny duty or something :eek: )

[Centauri]

I am locking this one in. I almost want to book the flight already :)

[Goldenmane]

Bloody Melbourne again? :mad:

:p

*works on getting rich and famous so he can attend*

[Fearless]

Well it's not on during my birthday next year like the last one was so I guess it's not all about me this time ;)

Great news. Well done for pushing ahead with this again.

[Praxis]

Bloody Melbourne again? :mad:

:p

*works on getting rich and famous so he can attend*
You'll be there. I'm sure.

[Bolero]

I will do my best to get there, but it happens to fall on my wedding anniversary - not sure how happy fundie hubby will be about that.... :(

[Centauri]

I will do my best to get there, but it happens to fall on my wedding anniversary - not sure how happy fundie hubby will be about that.... :(
Just tell him that you're going to Jesus Camp because you're willing to give it one more college try. When you get home, say "nah, still an atheist." :)

[Lord Blackadder]

Fantastic news. Just bloody fantastic! Waiting on the call for volunteers. Anything. Anything at all.

I'll put my hand up to be paparazzi and take happy snaps for posterity. Gotta give the new toy a proper workout. :-)

Either way, I'll be there with bells on!


Sent from my iPhone using magic technology thingy application thingy.

[Praxis]

I will do my best to get there, but it happens to fall on my wedding anniversary - not sure how happy fundie hubby will be about that.... :(
BWAHAHAHAHA!! *wipes eyes* Oh sorry, but that's too priceless.

Go on, buy him a ticket and make it an anniversary weekend. He might learn something and that would be good for your marriage ;)

@LordBlackadder. I've been meaning to speak to you about those bells...

[Bolero]

Laugh it up, people.

I'm going to go, dammit. I'll just have to wear it - I have a feeling it'll be worth it.

[Praxis]

Laugh it up, people.

I'm going to go, dammit. I'll just have to wear it - I have a feeling it'll be worth it.

It will and you won't regret it. w00t!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Centauri]

Laugh it up, people.

I'm going to go, dammit. I'll just have to wear it - I have a feeling it'll be worth it.
Nice. :)

[Logic please]

*ahem* That's not ornage, it's mango. Big difference :p
Heh, my bad. ;):D I retract unreservedly. I always did get somewhat confused by fruit. :p:D:)

[wolty]

I am going to bite the bullet and volunteer for the drinking part of the convention.

It's a tough gig but someone has to do it and I have experience and form.

[riddlemethis]

I am going to bite the bullet and volunteer for the drinking part of the convention.

It's a tough gig but someone has to do it and I have experience and form.

Back o' the line boiii!

[Secme]

Don't want to start a new thread but maybe I should. But why Melbourne again. We should share the love around. There are a lot of us in NSW, and there are a fair whack in QLD, seems to make sense to move it around not just for the locals that may not be able to go to an intersate one but also for the international speakers to go see some different part of Australia.

[Praxis]

Back o' the line boiii!
I assume you've got our accommodation sorted out already then, Ms Booking Agency? :D

Must drop Durro a line and see if he's coming. I reckon 3 in an apartment would be just right.

[Centauri]

I am going to bite the bullet and volunteer for the drinking part of the convention.

It's a tough gig but someone has to do it and I have experience and form.

I challenge thee, my fellow, by means of a glove slap

http://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/simpson_glove_slap.jpg

[two dogs]

I am going to bite the bullet and volunteer for the drinking part of the convention.

It's a tough gig but someone has to do it and I have experience and form.

I see that the Belgian Beer Cafe Eureka (http://www.belgianbeercafemelbourne.com/bbc-eureka.htm) isn't too far from the MCEC! ;)

[kazzaqld]

I'm not sure now whether I want other half and son to attend ? Sounds like some good parties planned.

[Sieveboy]

I am going to bite the bullet and volunteer for the drinking part of the convention.

It's a tough gig but someone has to do it and I have experience and form.

I would suppose you would like me to man the bar then sir?

[wolty]

I would suppose you would like me to man the bar then sir?

Um, don't know. I think I would like to remember some of it. :p

[Sieveboy]

Um, don't know. I think I would like to remember some of it. :p

Sieveboy's Patented GAC2012 Cocktail for the early morning:

Coffee.

Sieveboy's Patented GAC2012 Cocktail for the evening:

Warm Milk

:p

[Praxis]

I agree the love could be shared around, but since the AFA Pres and the Treasurer are in the wilds of SA, one committee member is in Perth, one in Brisbane and I don't know where the others are, I'm guessing there's probably very good reasons for it to be held in Melbourne again.

And I'm not just saying that because I live here, although I have to say that it doesn't suck from my point of view :D

[Praxis]

I'm not sure now whether I want other half and son to attend ? Sounds like some good parties planned.
Your son is a totally awesome little dude (I think I told him that!) and hubby is a nice bloke as well.

BUT...there are benefits to flying solo :D

I'm going to try to get Mr Praxis to attend the dinner and stay the Saturday night, then he can nick off and do whatever in town on Sunday while I attend the final day.

My boy has expressed an interest in coming as well so I will have to see how that pans out. I'd quite like him to see some of the speakers (whoever they are!). We shall see.

[wolty]

Sieveboy's Patented GAC2012 Cocktail for the early morning:

Coffee.

Sieveboy's Patented GAC2012 Cocktail for the evening:

Warm Milk

:p

I think you need to devise a new drink just for the gac.

[Lee]

I think you need to devise a new drink just for the gac.

Gin-Absinthe-Cocktail

[Loki]

There already exists at least one atheist cocktail (I have credible scientific or factually reliable evidence). :)

The Atheist's Best


extra dry Champagne (4 Parts / 12.0 cl)
Vodka (2 Parts / 6.0 cl)
Cherry juice (1 Part / 3.0 cl)
Lemon Juice (1 Part / 3.0 cl)


Source: the interwebs

[Lee]

Or the other hypothesis is that David Nicholls wants to look for his watch, lost backstage at the Convention Centre in 2010.


He doesn't have a watch.

[Loki]

He doesn't have a watch.

Aha, the plot thickens.

[Sieveboy]

GAC Cocktails:

No 1:

Its Strictly a Ladies Affair: Gireau Vodka (http://www.gireau.com/), mixed with apple juice and creme de menthe, an ellegant and classy drink for the discerning atheist lady. Leaves your breath minty and fresh.

No 2:

Debaters brain tonic: Gosling Brothers Gold Rum (http://www.goslingsrum.com/flash/gold/index.htm), muddled with Allens Coffee Brandy (http://allenscoffeebrandy.com/) and Creme de Cacao. Net and simple, it calms you down and brings you back to a nice edge.

No 3:

The non-theist boys are back in town: Gekkeikan Horin Ultra Premium Junmai Daiginjo Sake (http://www.gekkeikan-sake.com/product.cfm?type=import) served traditional style, chased by a a glass of Aviation Gin (http://www.aviationgin.com/main.html) and tonic and a Carrot Juice chaser (which must be consumed last and then the empty glass must be put down on the bar upside down :p)

Hmm, might have to explore these some day.

[Podblack]

Ooh, non-alcohol version? :)

[Praxis]

Ooh, non-alcohol version? :)
Indeed. Not everyone is an enthusiastic imbiber of alcohol :)

Meanwhile, if we can get off the booze for a moment, um, speakers? Any clues?

[Praxis]

Speakers? Guests?

Even a little hint? (guessing probably not Hitch :( )

[Praxis]

I've heard there is a very special atheist feather dance routine planned ;)
"They are naked. And they're dancing"
[Monty Python: Live at the Hollywood Bowl]

:D

[davo]

Meanwhile, if we can get off the booze for a moment, um, speakers? Any clues?

If you sign up here :

http://www.atheistconvention.org.au

You will be sure to hear as soon as more information is announced :)

[Praxis]

Pfft - I signed up at 7.30 am yesterday :p

I think I can confidently predict though that Wil Anderson will not be a guest, having just read a very short article on him where he seems to equate calling oneself an atheist as being 'extreme'. That saddens me a bit and I understand this kind of apatheism - there's such a lot of it in Australia - but I do wonder if such people take that position because the god botherers haven't (yet) done anything that affects the apatheist on any kind of personal level, such as the odious NSCP or the ACL having the ear of the government about the NBN.

Just speculating of course.

[RealityRules]

He doesn't have a watch.

So he did lose it backstage? ;)

[Praxis]

So he did lose it backstage? ;)
There is no backstage. Only Zuul.

[Sieveboy]

Ooh, non-alcohol version? :)

Poddy, you malign me, I posted the non-alcoholic ones first:

Sieveboy's Patented GAC2012 Cocktail for the early morning:

Coffee.

Sieveboy's Patented GAC2012 Cocktail for the evening:

Warm Milk

:p


But I presume you want something fun and fruity? With a hint of black?

Red Bull, muddled with ice and Ribena, served in a cocktail glass with strawberries.

:)

[DanDare]

I will do my best to get there, but it happens to fall on my wedding anniversary - not sure how happy fundie hubby will be about that.... :(
Bring him along. His anniversary gift can be heckling the evil atheists. (we didn't get a good turnout of fundies at the last one) :)

[Lee]

Pfft - I signed up at 7.30 am yesterday :p

I think I can confidently predict though that Wil Anderson will not be a guest, having just read a very short article on him where he seems to equate calling oneself an atheist as being 'extreme'. That saddens me a bit and I understand this kind of apatheism - there's such a lot of it in Australia - but I do wonder if such people take that position because the god botherers haven't (yet) done anything that affects the apatheist on any kind of personal level, such as the odious NSCP or the ACL having the ear of the government about the NBN.

Just speculating of course.

Read that too Prax. He's and atheist/vegetarian and he's OK. (to the tune of the Lumberjack song). Sad really.

[Worldslaziestbusker]

Read that too Prax. He's and atheist/vegetarian and he's OK. (to the tune of the Lumberjack song). Sad really.

Pipe down all you extremists.

[Darwinsbulldog]

I will do my best to get there, but it happens to fall on my wedding anniversary - not sure how happy fundie hubby will be about that.... :(
Bring him along! :-)

[Praxis]

Pipe down all you extremists.
Pardon my extremism. Indubitably.

[Goldenmane]

Thread started at RatSkep.

[Worldslaziestbusker]

Pardon my extremism. Indubitably.

Ha! I see through your passive oppression. Your faux contrition doesn't fool me.
Did you all see her being extremely godless at me?
Fundy atheist.

[riddlemethis]

Pfft - I signed up at 7.30 am yesterday :p

I think I can confidently predict though that Wil Anderson will not be a guest, having just read a very short article on him where he seems to equate calling oneself an atheist as being 'extreme'. That saddens me a bit and I understand this kind of apatheism - there's such a lot of it in Australia - but I do wonder if such people take that position because the god botherers haven't (yet) done anything that affects the apatheist on any kind of personal level, such as the odious NSCP or the ACL having the ear of the government about the NBN.

Just speculating of course.

Or just because the person is a dope addled juvenile who's rarely had a deep thought? Following him on Twitter has erased all the funnehhh!

[riddlemethis]

Poddy, you malign me, I posted the non-alcoholic ones first:




But I presume you want something fun and fruity? With a hint of black?

Red Bull, muddled with ice and Ribena, served in a cocktail glass with strawberries.

:)

Is there a kids menu?

[gruber]

so have i been accepted as a speaker for the topic "the joys of masturbation and its connection to prayer"

[66 vegie]

I'll be there.

[Praxis]

so have i been accepted as a speaker for the topic "the joys of masturbation and its connection to prayer"
I believe you have. And I also heard you offered a practical demonstration, which is jolly sporting of you.

[Worldslaziestbusker]

I believe you have. And I also heard you offered a practical demonstration, which is jolly sporting of you.

Ughh.
I assure you Gruber, I have no wish to see you praying.

[bruce1937]

I would really like to go, but I have a few obstacles to resolve before I can commit to attending.
Firstly the venue is so far away, it will take me at least 15 minutes to get there by bike, any chance of moving it closer to my home?
Secondly I had planned to cut the grass and my toe nails on that weekend, any chance of moving it back one week?
I assume my complementary VIP tickets will be forwarded once the above issues have been resolved to my satisfaction.:rolleyes:

[Praxis]

Ughh.
I assure you Gruber, I have no wish to see you praying.
Oh don't be so squeamish. It's educational.

And I say that in an extremely extremist way.

[two dogs]

...
which is jolly sporting of you.
And also jolly spurting, I expect.

[wolty]

Ha, I work all day and you lot go all extreme on me. You've all got extremist extermeties.


Now, I have no need to see gruber masturbate. Or praying.

Seiveboy, the drinks are special. Good to see you thinking of everyone.

Bruce, did I hear you say we can all crash at your place? :p

[Loki]

Thanks for putting us all up for the weekend Bruce, appreciate it. :D

[wolty]

And also jolly spurting, I expect.

Ha. A visual I didn't need.

[Annie]

What was that? Bruce is putting us up while the GAC is on? I always said he was an exceptionally nice guy. Thanks Bruce. :-)

[Centauri]

Do you think he'd mind if I brought my extended family to stay?

[Faithless]

Fantastic news
Just signed up for the GAC announcement list. I wonder if the bodybuilders convention will be on again with GAC?

[davo]

I have a swag won't take up much space in the loungeroom, others can use the couch ... You got spare mattresses?

[RealityRules]

The Zuul is a lie. Try delicious Cake.
http://cdn.smosh.com/smosh-pit/122010/steal-16-queen.jpg

Try QE2 as a speaker - she is non-belief friendly

Religious do not have monopoly on virtue, Queen tells synod

Believers and atheists equally able to contribute to country's prosperity, says monarch

the Queen told the Church of England today in an address to its governing body ... General Synod ... that believers and atheists were equally able to contribute to the prosperity and wellbeing of the country.

The Queen, who is supreme governor of the Church of England, said:
"It is rightly acknowledged that people of faith have no monopoly of virtue and that
the wellbeing and prosperity of the nation depend on the contribution of individuals and groups of all faiths and none."

www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/nov/23/queen-synod-virtue (http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/nov/23/queen-synod-virtue)

There's areally good anecdote in a book by her former head butler, Peter Russell ("At Her Majesty's Service") about how, knowing a lot of her palace staff were gay, she would go out onto the landing outside her bedroom at night, and call out something like "Would any of the queens in the kitchen be able to get some supper for an old queen upstairs?"

[Sir Patrick Crocodile]

Is there gonna be pie?

[gruber]

I assure you Gruber, I have no wish to see you praying.


thats what the cops keep telling me about the public :eek:

[Lee]

Is there gonna be pie?

Of course there is gonna be pie.
And Gruber is supplying the topping. :D

[Praxis]

Of course there is gonna be pie.
And Gruber is supplying the topping. :D
OHHHHH!!! SHE WENT THERE!

[gruber]

my special whipped cream

[Praxis]

AAAAAND moving on now.

[Centauri]

Yep, I'm spent.

[wolty]

AAAAAND moving on now.

I doubt we can keep it up much longer.

[Darwinsbulldog]

On a more serious note, not much response to GM's announcement over at Rat Skeps..maybe they are all fundi's or sock puppets over there now???

[Bolero]

I'll get on that right away, DB!

Or am I sockpuppet of myself if I do that?

[Darwinsbulldog]

[Giggles!]

[Durro]

Well, let's see...an invite to fly to Melbourne to spend a weekend getting drunk and staying in a hotel or apartment with two hot ladies in Praxis and Riddlemethis ?

Lemme think...












Thinking...








Oh, alright then. When is it ? Don't say April 20th, as I celebrate Hitler's birthday on that day (Also Mrs Durro's birthday)

:)

[Darwinsbulldog]

Well, let's see...an invite to fly to Melbourne to spend a weekend getting drunk and staying in a hotel or apartment with two hot ladies in Praxis and Riddlemethis ?

Lemme think...

Thinking...

Oh, alright then. When is it ? Don't say April 20th, as I celebrate Hitler's birthday on that day (Also Mrs Durro's birthday)

:)

Even better, bring Ms Durro along and share an apartment with three hotties! ;):p:p

[Bolero]

On a more serious note, not much response to GM's announcement over at Rat Skeps..maybe they are all fundi's or sock puppets over there now???
Well, I got about a half-dozen people to bump it, so not too bad ... now, if we can just get them to come along, too....

[Darwinsbulldog]

Indeed Bolero, and good work with the PR, but the response is still a little disappointing, but it is early dayz I suppose :confused:

[Bolero]

Don't forget, DB, there's nothing but a date as yet. People (non-AFA people) are going to find it hard to get all excited about a date that's a year away with no other details to hand.

Besides, it's Ratskep - we just don't DO excited over there. ;)

Has anyone posted it at Ratz?

[Durro]

Even better, bring Ms Durro along and share an apartment with three hotties! ;):p:p

Nahh, although she's a firm atheist, she doesn't feel the need to become an activist about it. She's got her circle of friends - her Stampin' Up ! buddies and I have my evil, baby-eating atheist bastard friends. She's happy for me to go to Melbourne again though.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Don't forget, DB, there's nothing but a date as yet. People (non-AFA people) are going to find it hard to get all excited about a date that's a year away with no other details to hand.

Besides, it's Ratskep - we just don't DO excited over there. ;)

Has anyone posted it at Ratz?
Yup, somebody beat me too it.

[Praxis]

Nahh, although she's a firm atheist, she doesn't feel the need to become an activist about it. .
Mr Praxis feels much the same, although I am going to try hard to get him to come to the dinner at least. Reckon he'd have a great time.

[two dogs]

When will gear with the GAC 2012 logo be available in the AFA Shop (http://www.cafepress.com.au/aussieatheists)? I need some new stickers for my "truck (http://julian-jordan.net/images/AtheosStickers.jpg)". :)

[martinpribble]

I have been looking forward to this since the last day of the GAC in 2010. It will be great to catch up with all you awesome people! OH SO MUCH has CHANGED!

Can't wait to see who the speakers are.

[sjd3]

stresss, when will they have one in sydney!??!? wish I could come though :)

[Sir Patrick Crocodile]

stresss, when will they have one in sydney!??!? wish I could come though :)Hell yeah. They should have it in the Bible Belt (Baulkham Hills for example) too. :p

[sjd3]

Hell yeah. They should have it in the Bible Belt (Baulkham Hills for example) too.

Hahaha, that would be hilarious, fundie. americans turning up outside protesting, saying that we are all the work of satan and that we are baby killers, there would have to be heaps of security though, but I would attend that no matter what the costs, an opportunity that if you missed you would always regret not going to :D

[martinpribble]

I for one would like to see more protesters at GAC 2012 than just that guy with his 2 kids and wife in tow that we saw in 2010... That was just sad... And funny.

[sjd3]

I for one would like to see more protesters at GAC 2012 than just that guy with his 2 kids and wife in tow that we saw in 2010... That was just sad... And funny.

haha, how were they protesting?

[Praxis]

There's been heaps of discussion about it here: http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=4357 and elsewhere in this part of the forum.

Given this thread here is for the upcoming GAC2012, discussion re last year's protesters probably should go in the older thread. Thanks :)

[martinpribble]

There's been heaps of discussion about it here: http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=4357 and elsewhere in this part of the forum.

Given this thread here is for the upcoming GAC2012, discussion re last year's protesters probably should go in the older thread. Thanks :)

Sorry lady, I was referring to the upcoming one, but we got time-machined!

[Praxis]

@Marty, no worries. I was referring to sjd3 but forgot mention that. I meant that the discussion re last year's protesters is here in this forum for anyone who wants to look and can also contribute.

:)

[Voltairine]

Just saw about this on the Pharyngula blog. Missed the 2010, determined to get to the 2012 one. Signed up for the announcements. Sitting near an Inbox, waiting. :D


P.S. I've introduced myself in the New Members section but, just to let you know, I'm in Hong Kong and will travel down from here for the weekend.

[Voltairine]

I know you can't tell, but I'm dancing about this already! :D

[Loki]

Can anyone give an indication on numbers of seats to be available?

The last one was sold out and it seems there is a lot of interest in this one already.

[DanDare]

Can anyone give an indication on numbers of seats to be available?

The last one was sold out and it seems there is a lot of interest in this one already.
The last one got no government support and I seem to remember the smaller venue was chosen to hedge bets on sales. I'm guessing this time the larger venue may be in order?

[Podblack]

The last one got no government support and I seem to remember the smaller venue was chosen to hedge bets on sales. I'm guessing this time the larger venue may be in order?

Er, is there anything larger anywhere? I mean, I thought that was big enough in 2010! Would it just be 'GAC 2012 - THE ENTIRE SUBURB OF ST KILDA'?

[Praxis]

I know you can't tell, but I'm dancing about this already! :D
Oh, we can tell :p

And you're not the only one. Honestly, I think I had the best weekend of my life at the last one. What's not to love about an entire weekend of intellectual rigour, humour, laughter, compassion, empathy, thought-provoking discussions, food, wine (ok, beer for many) and friends both old and new? Nup, can't think of anything.

I think I may give out a little w00t now :D

[martinpribble]

I think I may give out a little w00t now :D
Give a big W00T!!!!

[Praxis]

Give a big W00T!!!!
I space my w00ts out over the year. They vary in intensity and number, building to the obvious crescendo :D

[Darwinsbulldog]

Oh, we can tell :p

And you're not the only one. Honestly, I think I had the best weekend of my life at the last one. What's not to love about an entire weekend of intellectual rigour, humour, laughter, compassion, empathy, thought-provoking discussions, food, wine (ok, beer for many) and friends both old and new? Nup, can't think of anything.

I think I may give out a little w00t now :D
Make sure u wear comfy shoes this time round mate....or woz that just an excuse to indulge in the [dubious] feminine pleasure of shoe-buying :confused::eek::p:p

[Logic]

I got blisters hurrying back to the dinner from the hotel as well. :o

[Praxis]

Make sure u wear comfy shoes this time round mate....or woz that just an excuse to indulge in the [dubious] feminine pleasure of shoe-buying :confused::eek::p:p
Oh you loved coming shoe shopping with me!! But yes, I will never make the same mistake again, believe me. My feet ached for days afterwards.

Hopefully I'll be staying a lot closer to the centre this time as well, which will help.

I got blisters hurrying back to the dinner from the hotel as well. :o
I hear you sister! And later I was walking with Kym Starr (who is unfeasibly tall) and running to keep up with her walking and my poor little feet were blistered even more.

The things we women go through. Probably no need really but a lovely pair of shoes does make one feel, well, lovely :)

[Voltairine]

Oh, we can tell :p

And you're not the only one. Honestly, I think I had the best weekend of my life at the last one. What's not to love about an entire weekend of intellectual rigour, humour, laughter, compassion, empathy, thought-provoking discussions, food, wine (ok, beer for many) and friends both old and new? Nup, can't think of anything.

I think I may give out a little w00t now :D



Heck Praxis, I'm already checking flights and hotels! Plus how I can make a side trip to Bendigo.

I have to keep this quiet at work where I am surrounded by avid church goers and a not-particularly religious boss who, for some unknown reason, thinks that religious people are automatically "good". :confused:

P.S. The "quiet" bit refers to the reason "why" I'll be off from work.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Oh you loved coming shoe shopping with me!! But yes, I will never make the same mistake again, believe me. My feet ached for days afterwards.

Hopefully I'll be staying a lot closer to the centre this time as well, which will help.

I loved the company of a good friend, but not her 'dotty activity" about shoes! :p:p:p Shoe or clothes shopping is a utilitarian chore for the male, and a perverse pleasure for the female! ;):p:p:):):)
The male will typically buy one pair of shoes at a time, and let the feet marinate in their own juices for a lifetime....Michaelangelo at least got that right. :D

[crocoduck]

The last GAC I was new to atheism. I had joined the Perth atheists online but hadn't met any. Saw the GAC advertised on the Perth meetup site so I flew to Melbourne not knowing a single person, not even from Perth. Didn't know any non-atheists either! In fact the only people I "knew" were some of the speakers, from their books and youtube. :) Not knowing people made no difference as it was so easy to talk to strangers, everyone seemed to be on a buzz. Best conference I have ever been to.

Hope this encourages some people who are wondering whether to make the trip. I don't think you will have any regrets.

This time round I will know Perth people, and a forumites get together would be brilliant. Am saving for a gold pass.

[Praxis]

Not knowing people made no difference as it was so easy to talk to strangers, everyone seemed to be on a buzz. Best conference I have ever been to.
Ditto. Except I knew two people I'd met IRL. Plenty of others I 'knew' from online and meeting them in person was so much fun! Such good friendships were forged that weekend. And I totally agree about everyone being so friendly.

This time round I will know Perth people, and a forumites get together would be brilliant. Am saving for a gold pass.
Looking forward to meeting you!

[crocoduck]

Ditto.
Looking forward to meeting you!

And you too Praxis!:)

[Bolero]

There is NO WAY I can miss this party now!

Will have to start saving now, methinks.... hmmm, wonder if Centrelink offers subsidies for families needing to attend atheist conferences....

[Bolero]

And when I say "party", I mean "conference", naturally.

[Perspective]

I'm getting excited because it looks as though I may actually be in a postion to come after all!

[Praxis]

I'm getting excited because it looks as though I may actually be in a postion to come after all!
Extra woot! This is getting very exciting already :D

Maybe you'll even have an avatar pic by the time GAC2012 rolls around :p

[Perspective]

Extra woot! This is getting very exciting already :D

Maybe you'll even have an avatar pic by the time GAC2012 rolls around :p

Yes it's been playing on my mind that I need to find an Avatar :) I just don't really have any ideas... I won't be asking for advice either - the last one Protes gave me was a bloody Mario Brothers cap :eek: I'll work on it :p

[Perspective]

Just DON'T put "mb0905" and "stick" into Google Images. You won't find anything you'd want as an avatar.
:rolleyes: Wasn't planning to. I'm thinking googling something along the lines of Major Babe :p

[davo]

:rolleyes: Wasn't planning to. I'm thinking googling something along the lines of Major Babe :p

This reminds me of a discussion with my late grandfather about the net, showing him on a computer at my folks. He just didn't see the point of it, so I showed him google, and how you can type stuff in to find information.

He was in the process of getting his guttering at the house painted by some friend of his, and he was concerned over the fellow using 'latex paint' and how well it would adhere, and for how long as it is susceptible to water.

After explaining this he asked me to type in 'latex bondage'

yes he knew, he was a very quick man off the block ;)

[Loki]

"Major Babe" may not be what you are wanting to Google, depending on what interests you of course. For example very few of those images are of Babe Ruth. :)

[Bolero]

This reminds me of a discussion with my late grandfather about the net, showing him on a computer at my folks. He just didn't see the point of it, so I showed him google, and how you can type stuff in to find information.

He was in the process of getting his guttering at the house painted by some friend of his, and he was concerned over the fellow using 'latex paint' and how well it would adhere, and for how long as it is susceptible to water.

After explaining this he asked me to type in 'latex bondage'

yes he knew, he was a very quick man off the block ;)
LOL!!

[Justtristo]

I might come to it, depending on who is going to be among the guest speakers.

[Perspective]

It's all I got people :rolleyes: I tried Major babe against good advice :eek: and then I tried Magic big stick :eek: I don't even remember what I googled for this one. I'm not very good at picking avatars, hence I've not been using them. Anyway, enough of the derail. I'll keep it up for a little while coz it's cute.

[Perspective]

Yayy!!! I thought it might be a bit lame but if Mr B gives me the thumbs up, I'm happy :D

[davo]

Oh no not lame!!! NINJA USB STICK! :)

[Praxis]

Cute ninja. But a ninja onnastick is better!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v54/Praxis/stickninja.jpg
:D

Oh hang on, your ninja IS a stick. D'oh :o

[Goldenmane]

I might come to it, depending on who is going to be among the guest speakers.
Fuck the guest speakers. I'm (probably) going to be there, and speaking. Just not on a stage. :D

Trust me, you want to be around to witness a real live Goldenmane rant.

Edit: Oh, and I'm a ninja too. Got the card to prove it and all.

[Perspective]

I won't be able to make the whole three days so will there be a list of speakers for each day beforehand?

[Praxis]

I won't be able to make the whole three days so will there be a list of speakers for each day beforehand?
The speaker list and times was available prior to the last one so I imagine it will be the same. Not everyone can make the whole thing and it's good to be able to see who's on when.

If you can though, try to make it to the dinner. It's SUCH a great night :D

[Voltairine]

Edited: dumb question, realised the map was incorrect.

[Bolero]

Fuck the guest speakers. I'm (probably) going to be there, and speaking. Just not on a stage. :D

Trust me, you want to be around to witness a real live Goldenmane rant.

Edit: Oh, and I'm a ninja too. Got the card to prove it and all.
Fuck yeah.

I'm there (probably with beer in hand).

[Magicziggy]

I'll be going from Adelaide and this time not having to sneak the Friday off work because it'll be during the school hols.

[Sieveboy]

FUCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKk



Honeymoon.

I just realised.:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(

[Centauri]

Love is the most important thing, right?

[Sieveboy]

Love is the most important thing, right?

Yes and I sincerly doubt that Sievegirl would view GAC as a suitable honeymoon. Europe looks like the place I wll go.

[Praxis]

But...but... all honeymoon planes stop off in Melbourne for 3 days on their way to Europe!

You didn't know this?

[Goldenmane]

FUCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKk



Honeymoon.

I just realised.:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(

You gotta do what you gotta do.

Can't imagine how your honeymoon could possibly be better without me ranting though.. :D

[Sieveboy]

But...but... all honeymoon planes stop off in Melbourne for 3 days on their way to Europe!

You didn't know this?

But, but, but to keep sievegirl happy in Melbourne for 3 days involves shopping and the complete destruction of my credit card.

[Sieveboy]

You gotta do what you gotta do.

Can't imagine how your honeymoon could possibly be better without me ranting though.. :D

Yup, honeymoon would be great with you ranting on the philosophy of pulling a good and proper pint. You will have to get your rant videos on YouTube.

[Podblack]

Honeymoon.
I just realised.:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(

1) I had as part of my honeymoon, The Amazing Meeting 3 conference. Was great. :)
2) Last year I did a shout-out to a honeymooning couple in the audience. :)

Ask, see if it's possible. You never know if you don't ask.Even one day might be fun. :)

[Sieveboy]

1) I had as part of my honeymoon, The Amazing Meeting 3 conference. Was great. :)
2) Last year I did a shout-out to a honeymooning couple in the audience. :)

Ask, see if it's possible. You never know if you don't ask.Even one day might be fun. :)

I will try, i fear there will be much grovelling, too much chocolate, sickening destruction of nature to provide flowers and the purchase of fuckoff expensive champagne to allow this.:eek:

[Lord Blackadder]

I will try, i fear there will be much grovelling, too much chocolate, sickening destruction of nature to provide flowers and the purchase of fuckoff expensive champagne to allow this.:eek:

Ah, but 'twill be worth it. :D

[Jin-oh Choi]

It's been a while since I've been here. Looking forward to the GAC 2012. :)

[Annie]

Firstly the venue is so far away, it will take me at least 15 minutes to get there by bike
ok. Thanks Bruce. We were just talking. We are driving down. Will be at your place on the 12th. Staying to 15th. Sorry we have mum on the mornington peninsula to placate. I know you'll understand. :-) Is there anything you'd like us to bring? :-)

[djarm67]

... and the purchase of fuckoff expensive champagne to allow this.:eek:

I'd stay away from the Russian champagnes.:p

[Perspective]

I'm coming by myself for a weekend adventure! I'm leaving the little ones at home with my wonderful husband for the first time - and only second time in the 13yrs since we've been together! Yikes. Can't wait :D

[Jin-oh Choi]

I'm coming by myself for a weekend adventure! I'm leaving the little ones at home with my wonderful husband for the first time - and only second time in the 13yrs since we've been together! Yikes. Can't wait :D

I'd plan for more then the weekend. Last year was so much fun.

[davo]

Look out for a very big Atheist Convention announcement in tomorrow's papers!

Excited?

[Perspective]

YEEEHAAA!!!!!!!!! Which papers?

[Perspective]

I'd plan for more then the weekend. Last year was so much fun.
Wish I could mate but alas I have family commitments. I'm happy to be making it at all :)

[davo]

Certain big papers ;)

[riddlemethis]

ok. Thanks Bruce. We were just talking. We are driving down. Will be at your place on the 12th. Staying to 15th. Sorry we have mum on the mornington peninsula to placate. I know you'll understand. :-) Is there anything you'd like us to bring? :-)

Oh yay! If you're coming to the MP too & the arctic winter has broken by then, we can have a post GAC pool-party at my house!

[Praxis]

Ridiculously excited. Will get papers first thing tomorrow :D

(and no, I have no idea what it is!)

[Logic]

Also have great levels of antici.............pation :)

[Podblack]

I'm in Melbourne, should I bring a copy of The Age home for the Perth people?

[davo]

Well, I hope you are all bloody happy with it.

Dead tired atm, but happy :)

[Bolero]

Davo - you're a superstar.

In honour of your hard work, I may in fact buy a paper tomorrow...

[Lee]

Well, I hope you are all bloody happy with it.

Dead tired atm, but happy :)

Dave, you dun great. Everyone give 666 cheers for Dave.
HappyLee :D

[Mentally Saturated]

If it's the same announcement that I just received via email from the AFA, then I'm very, very impressed. Those responsible are more than deserving of a hat-tip from this member. Well done, folks !

Poor health and circumstances be damned, after this news, I may actually have to try to save some money and attempt to head down to this event.

Gary

[davo]

Dave, you dun great. Everyone give 666 cheers for Dave.
HappyLee :D

Would you believe, I mentioned it in one of our mod threads, on page 666 just before?

must be a sign ....

[Lee]

If it's the same announcement that I just received via email from the AFA, then I'm very, very impressed. Those responsible are more than deserving of a hat-tip from this member. Well done, folks !

Poor health and circumcstances be damned, after this news, I may actually have to try to save some money and attempt to head down to this event.

Gary

That be it.

[Goldenmane]

You actually got funding this time?

Bodes well.

[Bolero]

Oh my freakin' ... well, something. I just read my email and got all shivery. Now I HAVE to go!

[Coryate]

All things going well I will be abiding in the small country town of Canberra, so I should be able to make it, if not I'm sure I could resell the ticket...oh yes, must think of amusing Anti-fundy signs..or will they be provided?

[Jin-oh Choi]

“The Four Horsemen of the Anti-Apocalypse” Dawkins, Dennett, Harris, Hitchens announced as speakers for the 2012 Global Atheist Convention – ‘A Celebration of Reason’. (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/media-releases/four-horsemen-anti-apocalypse-dawkins-dennett-harris-hitchens-announced-speakers)

:)

[Rhys]

I think I must've broken a record for quick clicking after I saw the email title in my inbox just now :D. Incredible news. I hope Hitch is well enough when the time comes.

[Centauri]

“The Four Horsemen of the Anti-Apocalypse” Dawkins, Dennett, Harris, Hitchens announced as speakers for the 2012 Global Atheist Convention – ‘A Celebration of Reason’. (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/media-releases/four-horsemen-anti-apocalypse-dawkins-dennett-harris-hitchens-announced-speakers)

:)

I think I just creamed my shorts! Yes, on further inspection, I have!! This is the best news since someone first announced "you know, if we just add yeast and let this liquid ferment a while....."

[Logic]

Wow!!! Congrats to the committee, what an achievement. Can't wait!

[kazzaqld]

W00T! :D

fangirl squee! :eek:

How much are the Gold tickets? ;)

[Annie]

My last two posts on sam's fb page were asking him to come along. Read into that what You will but I think we can safely assume that he's coming because I asked him. :-)

I've got dibs on picking him up from the airport. :-)

[Annie]

I think I just creamed my shorts! Yes, on further inspection, I have!! This is the best news since someone first announced "you know, if we just add yeast and let this liquid ferment a while....."

+ 1. very excited. But just for the record, I didn't cream my shorts. I think Wolty creamed his though. :-)

Well Done Davo!!! Well done committee!

[Praxis]

I've seen it! :eek: :D :eek:

What.A.Coup.

Congrats to all involved. This is major. I had already decided I would go for a gold ticket this time around and that's sealed it.

I hope Hitch is still with us by then :(

Awesome work guys. Just awesome.

I'd like to think that RD had such a good time here last time he didn't hesitate to say he'd come again :) And to get the chance to hear Sam Harris and Dan Dennett speak....ooohhh!!!

Back at the old RDF, I was part of a volunteer group for the RD Foundation. One of the jobs I did was to transcribe the audio for several videos, including several of Dawkins' lectures, Growing Up In The Universe (several sections, not all), The Root of All Evil?, and The Four Horseman! That was probably my favourite one. It was like listening in, having the four of them in my ear, and it wasn't all that easy to transcribe either, with them often talking over each other and Hitch interrupting much of the time! But what a pleasure to hear these four exceptionally clear and reasoned thinkers putting forth their views and ideas.

For anyone who hasn't seen or heard The Four Horseman DVD, I highly recommend it.

Congrats again everyone!!

[Annie]

Oh yay! If you're coming to the MP too & the arctic winter has broken by then, we can have a post GAC pool-party at my house!

It sounds like a great plan RMT! Looking forward to it already!!!

[Lord Blackadder]

I. Am. So. There.

Not that I wasn't before, mind you, but now I'm even more there (is that possible?).

Golden ticket, here I come!


Sent from my iPhone using magic technology thingy application thingy.

[djarm67]

We'll be there with bells on.

[djarm67]

Will AFA members be given a window of opportunity to get the tickets before the general public?

[kazzaqld]

Will AFA members be given a window of opportunity to get the tickets before the general public?

I was wondering the same thing.... (looks around, wonders where she put membership form....) :rolleyes:

[kazzaqld]

Was it just here (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/content/membership) you left it?

Yep that was it - ta very much! :D

[Loki]

WOOT!


So now there will be four horsemen. All we need to make the event APOCALYPTIC is a hell hound. Tim, calling Tim, Tim to stage left.


Edit: forgot the WOOT!

[askegg]

Excellent news on the 4 horsemen. Fantastic work on the web site. This is going to be HUGE!

Now, will AFA members get first bite at gold pass tickets? :)

[Podblack]

Wahoo!
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/government-comes-to-atheist-party-20110514-1enkv.html


How daft is the 'pfft, bet no tourists will come' - as if people LAST time let it being interstate or overseas prevent them arriving? :)

[davo]

http://i.imgur.com/lHg6v.jpg

[davo]

Now, will AFA members get first bite at gold pass tickets? :)

Atheist Foundation of Australia members will be informed two weeks before tickets go on sale and will have another two weeks to purchase before they are released to the rest of the public.

All AFA members will receive notification. You should hear news about this in early August this year.

[Praxis]

The Melbourne Convention and Visitors Bureau has confirmed that state government funding will be provided to the convention, which they expect to attract 2500 people.The last one sold out 2500. I think the quote should be "expect to attract well over the 2500 who attended the 2010 convention" :D

Like LBA, I am there even more than I was before and I fully own the illogicality of that ridiculous statement but the sentiment is the same!

This is one of those times I desperately wish we were allowed really animated icons to represent how we're feeling because I have some I would use right now!!!!

The Australian Christian Lobby's Victorian director, Rob Ward, said that ''people are free to gather if they wish,'' but that the debate should be civil. He would ''love to see a cost-benefit analysis'' of the funding, asking whether the convention would bring in any tourists ''apart from the 'four horsemen' ''. I don't recall seeing any cost benefit analysis from the woefully-attended, grossly over-funded Parliament of World Religions, Mr Ward. But I'm sure there is ample data available to show how many people came to Melbourne from overseas and interstate to attend the GAC2010.

We'll show you ours when you show us yours.

The funding is the best bit. I was a bit worried the new State goverment in Victoria might cancel it. Very happy to see they haven't. Not that they have one reason to anyway.

[Bolero]

*checks self*

Yep. STILL excited. :D

[wolty]

Atheist Foundation of Australia members will be informed two weeks before tickets go on sale and will have another two weeks to purchase before they are released to the rest of the public.

All AFA members will receive notification. You should hear news about this in early August this year.

What a great idea.

I wonder who thought of that. ;)

[Hossain Salahuddin]

Congratulations to the AFA committee. This is a great news, specially the funding part. Can't wait for the event and meet everyone :)

[Fearless]

Excellent work to all those involved in this.

What a fantastic development!!! :D

[Freethinker]

Great news!!

As for the no tourist thing, I'll have to come from Adelaide, hence being a tourist ;)

And I'm sure there will be many more.

[Perspective]

W.O.W! Awesome. Well done Davo and all the committee members - you guys are fantastic and I WILL be buying you a drink when I arrive next year :D

[cyclist]

I don't recall seeing any cost benefit analysis from the woefully-attended, grossly over-funded Parliament of World Religions, Mr Ward. But I'm sure there is ample data available to show how many people came to Melbourne from overseas and interstate to attend the GAC2010.

Or what about Ratzinger's visit to Sydney a few years ago? There was a lot of money poured into that, and how much did the pilgrims pour back? Oh, that's right, they were boarded out, or put up in boarding schools, as well as given free public transport etc.

So, basically we poured money in, and they gave SFA back.

There was also this quote in the article on SMH (http://www.smh.com.au/national/government-funds-atheist-talkfest-20110514-1en8p.html)


Rob Ward, of the Australian Christian Lobby, said people were free to gather but the debate should be civil.
''Sometimes Dawkins and co have been a tad impolite.''


Why? because they don't share you unfounded beliefs? Personally, I don't think that Dawkins is rude, he is brusque, and to the point. He criticises people for their beliefs. But if something is worthwhile, it should stand up to criticism.


Oh, and looking forward to it. Can't see me not making it. I've enjoyed the DVD's from last years, and it would have been great to get there.



James

[crocoduck]

Congratulations AFA, what a coup. Absolutely brilliant news.

With regards to getting funding, is there anyone us non- Victorians should write a brief thankyou / thumbs up to, to mention we are travelling to Victoria expressly for the convention and to reinforce the appropriateness of funding it?

[Loki]

So what was the innuendo about papers about? Went out and got our local Sunday non-paper and .... nothing.

[Annie]

I think you'll find The Sunday Mail doesn't rate in the 'major newspapers' rank Loki. I think the reference was to The Age and others of that ilk. I'm pretty sure 'The West' didn't rate either. But 'The West' doesn't even rate as a decent toilet paper.

[Loki]

I know it doesn't rate, but as the only one available in most of QLD on a Sunday it's kind of the default option. How else should non-internet atheist people up here become aware of the event?

They did have a story on a man and woman who say they are jesus and mary reincarnate and churchy types tut-tutting, and another one on Access Ministries wanting people to sign a petition to defeat the high court challenge (cause we all know high court challenges are popularity contests). So I did get lols from the exercise.

[Bolero]

Congratulations AFA, what a coup. Absolutely brilliant news.

With regards to getting funding, is there anyone us non- Victorians should write a brief thankyou / thumbs up to, to mention we are travelling to Victoria expressly for the convention and to reinforce the appropriateness of funding it?
+1

......

[Secme]

I was still deciding whether to go or not, definately am now...

[Homosapien]

A 'BIG' Thankyou to everyone for making it happen!! It will be a greatly Welcomed, refreshing change of 'REASON', flowing into this country! Great work everyone!

[RealityRules]

Perhaps some strategic advertising for it in the fortnight leading up to the 2011 Census in early August ?? ;) ;) :)

[Podblack]

http://podblack.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Photo-1.jpg
For the interstate (and my lovely peeps back home) - the article in the Sunday Age! Right under a nice one about teachers union vs religious ed classes.

...of course, the article right on top of EVERYTHING might just grab your attention first...

http://podblack.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Photo-2.jpg

[djarm67]

Can I be one of the official "wipers" for the four horsemen?



Clap, clap.............Wipers!
http://www.pebkac-stories.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/coming_to_america.jpg

[HNfTw117]

GAC2012

Sounds interesting. Wish I could come. Unfortunately I don't live in Melbourne and I don't have the cash to fly there.

[Centauri]

GAC2012

Sounds interesting. Wish I could come. Unfortunately I don't live in Melbourne and I don't have the cash to fly there.
Start saving. That's what the rest of us do.

[Praxis]

GAC2012

Sounds interesting. Wish I could come. Unfortunately I don't live in Melbourne and I don't have the cash to fly there.
Dear rolls-off-the-tongue-so-easily-user-name, it's in April 2012. Flights are probably the cheapest part. Start saving. Besides, you pay for your ticket early so by the time it comes around, it doesn't feel so bad. Heaps of accommodation too - last time lots of people arranged share rooms at backpackers etc.

It's really worthwhile to see the speakers not to mention spending an entire weekend with clear-thinking, intelligent and rational people. Can't tell you how bloody refreshing that is, with all teh stoopid going on out there.

[Podblack]

GAC2012

Sounds interesting. Wish I could come. Unfortunately I don't live in Melbourne and I don't have the cash to fly there.

I'm from Perth. Quite a few of us are - doesn't stop us. :)

Have you considered doing a drive-down or train, get together with a bunch of atheists from Sydney? If you're in that town, you must get networking with the people there - quite a few wonderful folks in the city that I know. :)

[Goldenmane]

I'm partly minded to do what I was considering last time: road-trip. It's only a 3-day drive, if there are enough of you with the right setup, and with a few cameras and the right other gear it could be turned into a little doco, in several parts, released on Youtube.

Although these days it's probably cheaper to fly than drive. And my camera gear is nearing 10 years old, so obsolete as all fuck.

I'd love to do something like that, though. Get a small Perthy delegation together and document/vodcast it as we go, then produce a final cut a few weeks post-GAC.

Or something along those lines, anyway.

[DanDare]

The Australian Christian Lobby's Victorian director, Rob Ward, said that ''people are free to gather if they wish,'' but that the debate should be civil.
I just love the way he assumes that he is in a position to give permission.

[RealityRules]

I just love the way he assumes that he is in a position to give permission.

Very 'civil' of him (though Rob W probably quoted in the context of being asked by a journalist).

Love the new avatar.

[Mentally Saturated]

You actually got funding this time?

Bodes well.

I fear there's plenty of water to pass under the bridge before the event next year... and given the comment in The Age's story..

The Melbourne Convention and Visitors Bureau has confirmed that state government funding will be provided to the convention, which they expect to attract 2500 people.

...and...

Tourism Minister Louise Asher said this was the result of a decision of the Brumby government in June last year.

... hints that the current Govt isn't really prepared to take any ownership of the decision to provide the funding (there's no indication that they support the decision.. the comments are otherwise very neutral), and may back down at the first sign of pressure from vote-carrying faith-oriented lobby groups, but they'll sure as shit be there to gather up all the income that the event brings to Victoria (which has been noted quite blatantly).

In other words, I'll be skeptical about it until the money is actually "handed over", per se.

I can't help but think that after the refusal of funding for the previous, extremely successful event, it'd be nice if we had the option to tell the Vic Govt to shove their funding where it fits, and take the event elsewhere. But I suspect the AFA has found Melbourne to be the best choice, perhaps for logistical reasons.

If it is the case, I think the offering of funding based on the success of the previous event, when funding for that event, minimal as requested (compared to the Parliament of World Religions, held just months earlier at the same venue), was refused, absolutely stinks of hypocrisy.

The Australian Christian Lobby's Victorian director, Rob Ward, said that ''people are free to gather if they wish,'' but that the debate should be civil.

I just love the way he assumes that he is in a position to give permission.

I could not agree more, Dan.

Gary

[davo]

I find it ironic the ACL is talking about being civil straight after jim Wallace last tweets.

[Praxis]

I find it ironic the ACL is talking about being civil straight after jim Wallace last tweets.
And the xtian demonstrators who crashed the anti-homophobia rally with their hate placards last week :rolleyes:

But of course he's right. We must keep it civil. I mean everyone knows that the GAC 2010 was nothing but a weekend of drunken punch-ups, immoral debauchery, abuses screaming matches at christians, effigy burning and pelting fruit and rocks at the creationists we had in the stocks out the back.

And the roast baby we were served at the dinner? Mmmmm nom nom. Good times.

[BlueDevil]

And the xtian demonstrators who crashed the anti-homophobia rally with their hate placards last week :rolleyes:

But of course he's right. We must keep it civil. I mean everyone knows that the GAC 2010 was nothing but a weekend of drunken punch-ups, immoral debauchery, abuses screaming matches at christians, effigy burning and pelting fruit and rocks at the creationists we had in the stocks out the back.

And the roast baby we were served at the dinner? Mmmmm nom nom. Good times.

I certainly enjoyed the punch ups and loved the immoral debauchery, but unfortunately missed out on the roast baby! Will have to make sure I get to the dinner next time!

.

[Praxis]

I certainly enjoyed the punch ups and loved the immoral debauchery, but unfortunately missed out on the roast baby! Will have to make sure I get to the dinner next time!

.
Oh definitely! In fact I believe Fearless is offering his own baby this time. Plump and bound to be very juicy. We'll source other babies from religious families because their flavour is so much more piquant otherwise there won't be enough to go round.

And despite my request for cutlery this time, the organisers have decided to stick with the traditional barbarian method of eating with our hands.

Civil be damned.

[Voltairine]

First of all, I shall be one of the "tourists" arriving in Melbourne specifically for the event so there will be at least ONE tourist out of the 2,500 people at the GAC. I promise to avail myself of accommodation, shops, transport and restaurants thus inject tourist dollars into the economy. Spending amount will vary according to whether I see shoes I like (I can also see a few dollars going to AusPost for shipping ;) ).

Second, Dawkins, Dennett, Harris and Hitchens? WTF? This news nearly necessitated a trip to the toilet!

Third, as a non-Aussie, non-Australian citizen-resident but 100% atheist, can I join the AFA so I can get advance notice/booking of a ticket? I really don't want to travel some 7,400 km just to sit at the back. Well I will anyway, but the distress this might cause could lessen the likelihood of shoe shopping... not a pretty sight I can tell you. Plus uber pouting would be involved.

[Voltairine]

Try and see! (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/content/membership)

The Paymate thing doesn't seem to work. :(

[BlueDevil]

... hints that the current Govt isn't really prepared to take any ownership of the decision to provide the funding (there's no indication that they support the decision.. the comments are otherwise very neutral), and may back down at the first sign of pressure from vote-carrying faith-oriented lobby groups, but they'll sure as shit be there to gather up all the income that the event brings to Victoria (which has been noted quite blatantly).

In other words, I'll be skeptical about it until the money is actually "handed over", per se.

Gary

I agree that the government can't be fully trusted on this, but while I have some concerns I think it would be a very brave government that withdrew funding from the GAC. I think it would be quite easy to create a media furore about removing an already promised funding to atheists but no doubt continuing their financial support in all sorts of ways to religionists.

[Goldenmane]

I note that PZ has put this news up on Pharyngula.

Seems the AFA is getting somewhat of an influx of new members.

[Praxis]

The Paymate thing doesn't seem to work. :(
Drop a PM to Lee and see if you can arrange a bank transfer perhaps or to post a cheque.

We'll see you outfitted in green yet, happycamper!

[Voltairine]

Praxis, thanks for the suggestion. Gave Paymate another go as sometimes it's just a temporary problem - which it was in this case! Payment went through; completed and submitted the AFA Membership form. *dances*

BTW, what is the "green" reference?

[Voltairine]

And there was I thinking that I would have to wear green. Already had a t-shirt picked out. :D

http://images5.cpcache.com/product/488485485v2_480x480_Front_Color-Wasabi.jpg

[kazzaqld]

I just got confirmation that my payment has gone through. Can't wait for my green either!

[Voltairine]

Seems the AFA is getting somewhat of an influx of new members.

Sorry? :confused:

;)

[wolty]

I just got confirmation that my payment has gone through. Can't wait for my green either!

Bout bloody time. Must have been all the subliminal messages I sent.

[Praxis]

I just got confirmation that my payment has gone through. Can't wait for my green either!
'Bout fecking time too, woman :rolleyes:

Sorry? :confused:

;)
The forum will experience a surge in memberships, both to the forums and AFA memberships now the GAC has been announced. 'Tis to be expected.

I love the t-shirt! Um, except for the vegetarian bit. I could substitute carnivore, get it in black, and I'd rock :D

[Voltairine]

The forum will experience a surge in memberships, both to the forums and AFA memberships now the GAC has been announced. 'Tis to be expected.


Dang! I hate to be one of the crowd. ;)

[kazzaqld]

Bout bloody time. Must have been all the subliminal messages I sent.

Must have been! :rolleyes:

[Sir Patrick Crocodile]

I just got confirmation that my payment has gone through. Can't wait for my green either!Photosynthesis is the process of which energy from the sunlight is converted into chemical energy for usage by an organism... oh right... different green... carry on...

[wolty]

Dang! I hate to be one of the crowd. ;)

It's ok. You joined before the influx.

[kazzaqld]

Photosynthesis is the process of which energy from the sunlight is converted into chemical energy for usage by an organism... oh right... different green... carry on...

So long as it's not Soylent Green! :eek:

[Praxis]

So long as it's not Soylent Green! :eek:
Is that anything like Soylent Noight?

[Lee]

Sorry? :confused:

;)

Hey don't be sorry. I'm loving the extra workload. :D
And I don't think you included your forum name on the form. Bad person...very bad person.

But all is forgiven with you being a book readin', peace lovin', vegetarian!

Lee

[davo]

But all is forgiven with you being a book readin', peace lovin', vegetarian!


Seconded! :D

[Lee]

Seconded! :D

Don't tell me you're a hippy! :rolleyes:
Sorry folks...that's kind of a GAC Committee joke.

[Goldenmane]

Don't tell me you're a hippy! :rolleyes:
Sorry folks...that's kind of a GAC Committee joke.
Bloody Hippies.

[Bolero]

Bloody Hippies.
Seconded!