I went to this seminar last week with a feeling that I wouldn't actually gain much in the way of new knowledge, but having, previously, been vocal in my criticism of the absence of AA events 'up North' felt an obligation of sorts to go. And besides, it was cheap, close and Dalgea O'Callahan was speaking - which normally leads to some lively debate.
I was late so missed the name of the first speaker, Keith (I think) somebody from GreenBlue Urban. Now normally a rep from a company comes across to me as there to run a sales pitch. Keith wasn't and his earthy enthusiasm for planting and arboriculture was soon apparent, setting the tone for the day.
Keith Sacre was an interesting speaker, whose subjects roamed from bioprotection, TDAG, the business plan of British Standards and the environmental protection sections that had originally been included in BS8545 and were removed due to the threat of European Courts! His inside knowledge of the nursery trade was enlightening, the lead times that they work to, species selection (what we are going to want in 5-7 yrs time) and the risks that nurseries face of immediate closure should certain pathogens be found. And again his enthusiasm and commitment shone through. I'd have been content if Keith had been the only speaker for the day.
After lunch, Glynn Percival took centre stage. Anyone who has heard him before appreciates his manner, his interest and enthusiasm. He did say that the powerpoint would be available later, but I struggled to make notes of the topics and information that came forth. He knows his stuff (so much stuff!) and maybe forgets that the audience are in a different stratosphere entirely. Just attempting to encapsulate the topics covered is near impossible. Two days later, writing this, things are still coming to mind that I now want to look into and research, to understand more.
I don't know if this is an indication of a good seminar or not, when you come away with more questions than answers! I did find that the following day I was using the new found information in a discussion with client, even though I felt that I didn't have enough information or knowledge in my mind to be able to explain all the intricacies of the subject. That is no criticism, that's down to me.
So I'd like to thank the organizers for an interesting day and encourage others to support the branch events, even if they are on a subject that you think isn't of any particular relevance or interest, you never know unless you go.