From the Director's desk

SAIAB has enjoyed an active and productive year in 2010.  Some key milestones include the launch of the Ukwabelana and ROV together with the Elwandle Node, in Port Elizabeth, the completion and official opening of the new Margaret Smith Library by the Minister for Science & Technology, and the installation of a state-of-the-art X-Ray inspection system. We moved the library into the new facility. The administration of the SAEON Elwandle Node has been transferred to SAEON head-office in Pretoria. We received funding for the final stage of the renovations of the building – for which the planning is now at an advanced stage, as well as extraordinary funding for IT infrastructure and for large specimen storage bins in the wet collection.  We made significant changes to the management structures including the appointment of Linda Coetzee as our Finance and Operations Manager, and undertook a significant shift in our Communications and Outreach strategy. Our scientists have been very busy with their projects, including field work in interesting areas, and we have practically doubled the number of students in training. Many publications and conference presentations have been made, cruises undertaken for ACEP and ASCLME, and one researcher, Dr Swartz spent four months in New Zealand on a mini-sabbatical. And there is so much more besides. I am grateful to all staff and stakeholders for all of this. The break and rest is well deserved and provides an opportunity to recharge the batteries. This is important because next year promises to be more of the same, if not even more hectic. May you all have a peaceful, safe and happy time.


Professor Paul H Skelton
Managing Director
SAIAB