GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY


FORMED 1906

Tuesday 6th February 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
With the object of forming a Photographic Society, a meeting was held at Mr. R.W. Potter's shop, One Mile, on Sunday. It was unanimously decided to form a Society to be called Gympie Amateur Photographic Society, and rules and by-laws were adopted. Mr. J. Holden was appointed Secretary, and the election of other officers will take place at a future date to be advertised. The association promises to be a great success. It was decided to have tri-weekly competitions for which points will be given, and the one who obtains the highest number of points each quarter will receive a prize.



Saturday 10th February 1906
Page 2 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
MEETING of Members and intending Members will be held in R.W. POTTER'S Shop on Sunday morning, 10.15am.

J. HOLDEN
HON.SECRETARY



Tuesday 13th February 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
A largely attended meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held on Sunday morning at Mr. R.W. Potter's store, One Mile, when the following officers were elected for the ensuing 12 months: President, Mr. R.W. Potter; Vice-Presidents, Mr. F. Asmussen and Mr. George Black; Committee, Messrs. D. Glasgow, B. McCormack, and H. George; Librarian, Mr. G. Stratigos; Treasurer, Mr. L. Birt; Lanternist, Mr. T. McLean;

It was decided to fit up a dark room, lecture room, etc., at the One Mile, which will be always open for the use of members and visitors. Altogether 30 members were enrolled. It was decided to send all prints of the first competition to Harrington and Company to be judged. A program will be drawn up by the committee, giving an account of the work to be done during the half-year, which will be submitted to the members at the meeting to be held next Thursday night. All intending members are requested to send their names to the Secretary, Mr. J.B. Holden, at Cullinanes Ltd., who will give them all necessary information.



Thursday 15th February 1906
Page 2 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
MEETING of Members and Intending Members will be held in G.A. Potter's old store, One Mile, this evening, at 7.30.

J. HOLDEN
HON.SECRETARY



Saturday 17th February 1906
Page 4 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The first meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held at the Society's rooms on Thursday evening when the main business was the adoption of the program for the half-year. During the evening Mr. T. McLean, lanternist, exhibited some very fine lantern slides, the work of the members. A good number of numbers were enrolled, and several members brought photographs, which were freely criticized by those present. The first competition takes place next meeting, March 2nd, when a large number of photographs will be sent in for competition. The subject for the competition is landscape with either river or mountain scenery. It was resolved to issue a special invitation to ladies to become members of the Society, so that those wishing to enter for the first competition may communicate with the Secretary, Mr. J. Holden. The Society rooms will be properly fitted up for next meeting.



Tuesday 10th July 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The usual meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's rooms, One Mile, on Friday evening last, Mr. R.W. Potter presiding. There was a large attendance of members present, also a few ladies. One new member was proposed and admitted into the Society.

The Folding 'Victor' Camera in aid of the Society's funds was drawn for, and the winning number was 139, Mr. A. Grabbs, on J. Neilsen's list.

The results of the last competition were announced by the President, and were as follows: Best animal study: J. Neilsen, 100 per cent, 1; W. Fleming, 95 per cent, 2; L. Birt, 75 per cent, 3.

Fourteen prints were handed in for the present competition, best Architectural Study, and were duly forwarded to Messrs. Harrington, Ltd, for adjudication. Some of the prints are the work of beginners, and are really excellent. During the evening, the lanternist, Mr. T. McLean, showed some of the members slides through his lantern, and same were freely criticized.

Mr. Robert Henderson sang, by special request an illustrated song, entitled "Always in the Way", which was highly appreciated. An evening will be given to the Monkland Debating Society on Wednesday, when the President will give a paper and demonstration, assisted by the members, on bromide printing, etc.



Tuesday 24th July 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Owing to the visit of the "Two Little Vagabonds" to Gympie, and the fact that some of the members were on the wrong shift, there was no meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society on Friday evening last. Only five members and a few friends put in an appearance, and after half-an-hour's chat on matters in connection with photography generally, those present adjourned to the dark room, where a little practise in Bromide printing and enlarging was indulged in. The lanternist, Mr. T. McLean, charged his lantern, and same was used to advantage for enlarging. Messrs. L. Birt and J. Neilsen finished off some excellent prints and enlargements, and an enjoyable and instructive evening was spent. It was amply demonstrated that the lantern is an ideal enlarging apparatus. A special meeting of the Society will be held on Sunday morning next.



Tuesday 31st July 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
A well attended special meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's rooms, One Mile, on Sunday morning last, Mr. R.W. Potter presiding. A letter was received from the Secretary of the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society, granting space and permission to hold the club's half-yearly exhibition at the forthcoming show, but under their auspices; the permission was gladly accepted.

The following is the schedule the club has adopted: Class 1, landscape and seascape; Class 2, architecture; Class 3, animal life; Class 4, still life and flowers; Class 5, portraiture; Class 6, enlargements ; Class 7, copying; Class 8, postcards.

It was unanimously decided to ask Mr. Poulsen to kindly act as judge, to adjudicate upon the amateur's work. Mr. R.W. Potter announced his decision to award a gold medal for the best picture of the show, the work to be that of a member of the club. Special endeavors are being made to make the exhibition as attractive as possible, so that the public may see what the Gympie Amateur Photographers are doing.



Tuesday 31st July 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE SHOW
OPENED BY THE GOVERNOR
A SPLENDID DISPLAY
The twenty sixth annual show of the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society was commenced to-day under favorable conditions. The weather was cloudy but fine. The attendance was very good and the entries exceeded those of any previous show by several hundreds. The State Governor and Lady Chelmsford were present, and the Hon F.I. Power and Mrs Power, Alderman Lister (Mayor) and Mrs Lister, and Mr G. Lindley, M. L. A, were also among those present.

One of the finest displays of amateur photography seen at any show this year was made by members of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society.



Saturday 18th August 1906
Page 4 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Judge: W. Poulsen (Brisbane).

These competitions were held in connection with the Photographic Society, but were exhibited under the auspices of the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society.

The awards were as follows:
LANDSCAPE AND SEASCAPE: W. Fleming 1, G. Black 2, J. Neilsen 3.
ARCHITECTURE: G. Black, 1, W. Fleming 2, J. Neilsen 3.
ENLARGEMENTS: H. Saltrick 1, W. Fleming 2, L. Birt 3.
COPYING: W. Fleming 1, G. Black 2, H. Saltrick 3.
FLOWER STUDIES: W. Fleming 1, J. Neil 2, L. Birt 3.
PORTRAITURE: W. Fleming 1, H. Saltrick 2, L. Birt 3.
POST CARDS: J. Neilsen 1, W. Fleming 2, G. Black 3.
ANIMAL STUDY: W. Fleming 1, J. Neil 2, McTaggart 3.
CHAMPION EXHIBIT: Creek scene by W. Fleming (¼-plate).



Tuesday 2nd October 1906
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
A meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's rooms, One Mile, on Friday evening last, Mr. Robert W. Potter presiding. This being the first competition night for the second half-year, it was largely attended, and a batch of first-class prints were handed in for the Landscape competition, and will be forwarded to Messrs. Harrington Ltd., for adjudication in due course, the results of which will be announced at the next meeting. Four new members were proposed and admitted into the Society, and accounts amounting to £5 7s 4d were passed for payment. A grand classical and instrumental concert in aid of the Society's funds will be held at an early date, and an energetic committee was formed to carry out the necessary arrangements. It was also decided to hold a Field Day at Nambour on Sunday 7th October, advantage being taken of the excursion to that place on the date mentioned. Members intending to make the trip will please notify the secretary immediately, so that arrangements for luncheon, etc., may he completed. Mr. Black notified his intention of presenting a medal to the member who enters the Society during the current half-year, and shows the most progress for the same period.



Tuesday 9th April 1907
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Friday night last was working night for the members of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society, and a number of amateurs were in attendance at the Society's rooms, One Mile. Mr. William Fleming, Vice-President of the club, gave a practical demonstration on the development of negatives. Some of the members brought exposed plates with them, which were developed satisfactorily. Mr. Fleming ably demonstrated how to develop a correctly exposed plate with a normal developer, and how, by regulating the developer, the best possible results under the circumstances, could be obtained from under-exposed and over-exposed plates. A printing demonstration on "Pearl" postcards was also given by Mr. Fleming. The evening was both interesting and instructive, and Mr. Fleming was accorded a vote of thanks for his services.



Tuesday 23rd April 1907
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The usual five weekly competition meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's rooms, One Mile, on Friday evening last, the President, Mr. George B. Black, in the chair. One new member was enrolled, and two others proposed for membership.

The result of the preliminary competition (river or creek scenes) was announced, and was as follows: Class A. George Black, 98 per cent, 1; J. Nielsen, 80 per cent, 2; and J. Chippindall, 50 per cent, 3. Class B. L. Birt, 75 per cent, 1; J. Loosemore, 57 per cent, 2; and T.H. White, 15 per cent, 3.

The competition prints included pictures of the Mary river and most of the surrounding creeks, from as far south as Nambour to the head of the Deep Creek, and the judge's remark on Mr. Black's winning picture was "one of the best pictures I have seen for a long time". The Amateurs are to be congratulated upon the energy put into these competitions, and by the judge's remarks and criticism on the back of each print they are enabled to improve their photographic work.

The President's free instruction class in connection with the club will be commenced on Wednesday evening, 1st May, and will be continued every alternate Wednesday thereafter. The President read a very interesting paper on the various methods of development and same was duly appreciated and a vote of thanks to the chairman terminated an enjoyable meeting.



Saturday 13th July 1907
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
(To the Editor of the "Gympie Times".)

Dear Sir, I was greatly surprised at the announcement in the advertising columns of your issue of the 11th July, notifying that the Gympie Shop Assistant's Committee had decided to enforce a fee of £1 1s, for the right to take photographs on the ground of the various displays in connection with the recent charity Carnival.

This, Mr. Editor, I think you will agree was a very unjust step to take, for if any amateur photographer wished to get a few pictures of the Carnival as mementos, he would be compelled to hand the sum of £1 1s to the carnival secretary before being allowed to do so. This, as far as I know, is the only place where amateur or professional photographers have been asked to pay for the right to photograph, and I would like the Shop Assistants to throw some light on the matter, and thus give us some reason for taking such a drastic step, as at all previous functions it was never deemed advisable to do so. The amateurs were responsible for advertising the Gympie Carnival all over Australia, as postcards of the different characters were previously circulated throughout the colonies, and on this occasion the members of the amateur photographic club were looking forward with pleasing anticipation to the carnival, and were greatly disappointed to learn that on the morning of the Carnival, the above advertisement was brought to light.

I note there was a marked absence of cameras on the ground due solely to the exorbitant fee asked for the right to use same, and such action as this, Mr. Editor, does not enhance the popularity of the Carnival — at all events from a photographic point of view.

I noticed that one amateur solved the difficulty by making a number of exposures prior to the starting of the procession, and that during the day, in many instances, characters wishing to be photographed, were compelled to go outside the fence in order to have their wish fulfilled.

Trusting the Shop Assistants will throw more light on the subject.

I am yours,
LEONARD BIRT
Hon.Secretary
Gympie Amateur Photographic Society



Thursday 1st August 1907
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

THE RECENT SHOP ASSISTANTS CARNIVAL
(To the Editor of the "Gympie Times".)

Sir, In your issue of the 13th July appeared a letter signed by L. Birt, Hon.Secretary, Gympie Amateur Photographic Society, wherein he expressed his surprise at our action in asking a fee of £1 1s. for the right to take photographs of displays, in connection with the recent Carnival. The reason for our charging the fee was, we considered it a very just step to take, inasmuch as the so-called amateurs have in the past taken the liberty of taking photographs on the day of the carnival, which are reproduced on Post Cards, and sold to all and sundry, the amateur thereby reaping a rich harvest whereas the £1 1s. charged by us goes to swell the funds of our charitable institution. He furthermore alludes to the amateurs as being responsible for the advertising of our carnival all over Australia by distributing post cards. Such presumption can only be expected. Where does the buyer and poster of the card come in ? The carnival is for charity purposes only, and the public and the press who generously provide all the funds know that every effort made by those taking part in same is done voluntarily and without any personal gain.

We also wish to protect genuine Business Men who every year generously contribute to our donation list and are ever ready to pay a fee which would help us in our laudable object. We can afford to smile at the ideas of Mementoes, Absence of Cameras, enhancing the popularity of the Carnival. And as to the amateur who solved the difficulty and took photos, I beg to remind him that we are awaiting his fee of £1 1s. which is now overdue. Apologizing for occupying such a big space.

WILL GREENE
Hon. Secretary
Shop Assistants Charity Carnival.
Calton Hill, July 30, 1907



Saturday 31st August 1907
Page 4 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

IN DEFENCE OF THE CAMERA
(To the Editor of the "Gympie Times".)

Dear Sir, Will you kindly allow me space for a few words upon your representative's report on the Fine Arts Section at the recent Show. The part of the report that I would particularly like to refer to is where he reproves the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society for allowing Photography to be classed as a fine art. The mighty. "Power of the Press" has again forcibly been brought under our notice, through the fall of the English Soap Trust, and it makes us tremble, to think the Art of Photography may share the same fate. How the shades of those illustrious photographic artists, H.P. Robinson, Richard Keene, Captain Abney, and a host of others must writhe in agony when they find their life's work in raising photography — against the painter's prejudice — to the sacred fold of the fine arts has been in vain. How amongst others must Blount of England, Sarony of America, and Judge Docker of Australia, feel when they read the words of your reporter; and then again, to say nothing of various Art Societies throughout the world, how will the "Paris Salon", that most conservative of all Art Societies, take it when they find they have made a great mistake during the last three or four years in allowing the despised "Bromide Print" to hang on the same walls, side by side with the paintings of their best masters.

So, Mr. Editor, if only in respect for their feelings, if not for ours, will you kindly plead with our critic to withdraw his indictment, point out to him that the brush, the pencil, or the camera, does not make the artist any more than the violin, or piano, makes the musician; they are only the instruments of his art, the tools with which he works to gain the effect; point out to him that he referred to some of the paintings as crude. Are they, as works of art, to rank before an artistic photograph ?

Photography is not only setting up a camera, snapping the shutter and developing the plate; by so doing, you may get a so called picture, one about equal to the crude painter's daub, but the artistic picture, whether made with the camera, or brush, requires thought and study to produce. I do trust your representative will not be deaf to our entreaty, and will remove the ban he has placed upon the ART; by so doing, he will bring back joy and gladness to photographers in general and raise the gloom from the heart of the

PRESIDENT
Gympie Amateur Photographic Society



Tuesday 15th October 1907
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Gympie Amateur Photographic Society has just entered on its third half year, and everything points to another successful term. A competition meeting was held on Friday evening last, and was well attended, the President, Mr. G.B. Black, in the chair. Three new members were admitted into the Society, and accounts, amounting to £3 18s., were passed for payment. Amongst the correspondence dealt with was a letter from the Clifton Hill Amateur Photographic Club, North Fitzroy, asking for an inter-club exhibit at their forthcoming exhibition, but as the distance is too great, regret was expressed at the inability to comply with the request.

The result of the last competition (landscape) was announced as follows:
CLASS A: L. Birt, 90 per cent, 1; J.A. Nielsen, 80 per cent, 2; and G.B. Black, 56 per cent, 3.
CLASS B: J.M. McTaggart, 85 per. cent, 1; A.L. Walker, 70 per cent, 2; and E. Ambrose, 52 per cent, 3.

The present competition is a favorite one, postcards. There were a large number of picturesque cards handed in, which were forwarded to Brisbane in due course for adjudication, the result of which is eagerly awaited. The President took the opportunity of congratulating the members upon the marked improvement shown during the past half-year, and also upon the splendid photographic display at the recent exhibition. After the business of the meeting had been concluded an adjournment was made to the darkroom, where a practical demonstration on the development of plates by the factorial method was given by the President, and was highly appreciated. The developing solution for the occasion, was a "tabloid" set kindly supplied by Burroughs, Wellcome and Co., Sydney, and proved very satisfactory. Altogether a very pleasant instructive evening was spent.



Tuesday 26th November 1907
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The regular meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's Rooms, One Mile on Friday evening last, Mr. George Black presiding.

The result of the last competition (Postcards) was announced, and is as follows:
CLASS A: J.A. Nielson first; L. Birt, second.
CLASS B: E. Ambrose, first; S.J. Aspinall, second; T.H. White, third.

This proved the most popular competition yet held by the Society, and altogether a collection of forty cards were exhibited. They were placed on a large table in their order of merit, and much admired.

An interesting paper on Lantern Plates was given by the President, Mr. Black, and duly appreciated. Those present then adjourned to the Dark Room, where a pleasant hour was spent toning bromide prints. The much desired sepia tones were easily obtained, with a "Tabloid" set of chemicals kindly supplied by Messrs. Burroughs, Wellcome & Co.



Tuesday 18th February 1908
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
A very pleasant evening was spent by the members of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society in the Club Rooms on Friday evening last. There was a good attendance, and Mr. W. Aitkin gave an able demonstration on the method of printing "Pearl" paper. This class of paper is comparatively new to the majority of local amateurs; besides clearly showing how the best effects are obtained when using the paper, many useful printing hints were also thrown out, which were appreciatively noted. Arrangements were made for the annual meeting of the Society on Friday evening next. Mr. Aspinall apologized for the President's unavoidable absence and proposed a hearty vole of thanks to Mr. Aitkin which was carried. Mr Aitkin suitably responded, and promised to visit the Club more frequently in the future, which terminated a most delightful photographic entertainment.



21st March 1908
Page 117 - Vol. 15 No. 3 The Australasian Photographic Review

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The second annual meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Club Rooms, One Mile, at the latter end of last week. The President, Mr. George B. Black, presided, and there was a fair attendance of members.

The result of the last three competitions was announced as follows:

LANTERN SLIDES: FIRST Mr. J.A. Nielsen

GENRE STUDY: FIRST Mr. L. Birt

ENLARGEMENTS: FIRST Mr. L. Birt

Mr. L. Birt was also declared the winner of the most competitions during the half year.

The Hon.Secretary’s financial statement was adopted, which disclosed a very satisfactory state of affairs.

The following officers were unanimously elected for the ensuing term:

ELECTION OF OFFICERS 1908 - 1909			PATRON Hon. FRANCIS ISIDORE POWER M.L.C.		PRESIDENT Mr. George B. Black
Vice President: Mr. Robert W. Potter	Vice President: Mr. Win. Fleming	Vice President: Mr. J.A. Nielsen	Hon. Secretary: Mr. Leonard Birt	Hon. Treasurer: Mr. Thomas H. White	Librarian: Mr. W. Johnston

The President read a very exhaustive and interesting report of the Society for the past year, and was the recipient of a very hearty vote of thanks for his valued services and able report, the thanks of the Society is also due to Mr. George A. Potter for use of his rooms gratis; also to Baker and Rouse and Harrington and Cos. for supplying photographic journals, and Burroughs Welcome, of Sydney, for supplying chemicals free for demonstration purposes.

The program for the half-year was drawn up, and same comprises the usual five competitions, besides a similar number of practice nights. The competitions are: moving objects, mining views, interiors, landscapes on P.O.P., and the favorite one, set of pictorial post-cards. One new member was enrolled, and others spoken of as likely candidates for admission.

The President’s report conveyed a most optimistic view of the Society’s position, and concluded with the following; A pleasant feature of our advancement as a Society is our recognition from outside sources. Mr. Atkin, of Baker and Rouse, gave a very intelligent demonstration on 'Pearl' Bromide paper, pointing out its various advantages and method of working; then we receive photographic literature from home and abroad; and last, but not least, the proprietors continue to forward a free copy of The Australasian Photographic Review and The Australian Photographic Journal. We also receive an interesting and brightly-written little booklet, 'Monthly Notes', the official organ of the Clifton Hill Amateur Photographic Club, Victoria.

“Although the Society has in its ranks many valued and enthusiastic workers, it is regretted that all the followers of the art have not more generally recognized the many benefits to be derived from being attached to a club, which has an educative tendency, not only to the beginner, but the more advanced workers are enabled to meet, interchange ideas, and spend many pleasant evenings together, thus gaining proficiency them selves, and helping to uphold and advance our art”.

FRANCIS ISIDORE POWER

Born 28th February 1852, South Brisbane, Queensland
Died 24th June 1912, (aged 60) Gympie, Queensland

MEMBER OF THE QUEENSLAND LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
15th July 1901 – 24th June 1912

Tuesday 28th July 1908
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
A meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's rooms, One Mile, on Friday evening last. The President, Mr. George B. Black, occupied the chair, and there was a fair attendance of members. A discussion was entered into, in respect to the half-yearly Exhibition, and eventually it was decided to apply for space and permission to hold same under the auspices of the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society as formerly and should same be granted, every effort will be put forth to eclipse all previous displays and it will be remembered, that that portion of the building allotted to the Amateurs, was undoubtedly the chief attraction of the past two Exhibitions.

Congratulations were bestowed on the successful members who competed at the Bundaberg and Maryborough Shows, especially Messrs. Birt and Nielsen who practically won everything at the latter Exhibition.

The result of the late competition, Landscapes on P.O.P., was announced as follows:
CLASS A: Unfortunately there was only one entry in this class, but the entrant, L. Birt, secured the high percentage of 90.
CLASS B: George Monks, 70, 1st., J.S. Aspinall, 68, 2nd., and W. Johnson, 50, 3rd.

The club will meet again in a fortnight's time, when all exhibition arrangements will he finally completed.



Thursday 30th July 1908
Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AGRICULTURAL MINING AND PASTORAL SOCIETY
The weekly meeting of the Committee of the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society was held at the office of the Secretary (Mr. F. Vaughan) last night. The President (Mr. R.H. Cox) occupied, the chair.

CORRESPONDENCE
From the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society asking for space in the building. Referred to the Space Committee.



Tuesday 1st September 1908
Page 1 and 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The half-yearly meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the society's rooms, One Mile, on Friday evening last, when there was a fair attendance of members. The President, Mr. George B. Black, occupied the chair, and in opening the meeting gave the following interim report:

Gentlemen, This being our fifth half-yearly meeting, before we proceed with the ordinary business, I would like to congratulate the members upon the progress they have made — the Society to-day has a higher standard than it has had before. During the half-year just closed, besides our ordinary competitions, members of the Society have competed at various district exhibitions, and at the National Exhibition in Brisbane. I am pleased to say that we were very successful at all of them; in fact, at Maryborough, we practically swept the program, and at Brisbane and Bundaberg we gained most of the awards — the credit of this is largely due to Messrs. L. Birt and J.A. Nielsen. The younger members of the Society have made good progress, and showed their pluck by competing on even terms with older members at our recent exhibition, and although they did not succeed in gaining the coveted 1st, the judge was so pleased with their work that he awarded them several 2nds. I am sure that they will continue to improve, and next year will carry off some of the prizes.

Our yearly exhibition, held under the auspices (by kind permission) of the Gympie Agricultural Mining and Pastoral Society, was very successful, and I was exceedingly pleased with the standard of the work shown. Of course, on account of the excellence of their work, some members naturally thought they ought to have gained higher prizes, but the exhibits in most of the competitions were so close that it was very difficult to judge, and things like mountings or a slight difference in the density of the prints, often turned the scale in favor of the one to which the judge made his award. I must say that after critically comparing the various exhibits, on the whole, I can see no fault to be found with the adjudicator's decisions. Of course, in our own pictures, it is quite natural that we should see the good points first and often overlook their faults; while in those of others, we are apt to see the faults and overlook some of the good points, but a judge compares the exhibits both on their good and bad qualities and gives his award to those which, in his opinion, show the most merit, and although in our art, as in everything else, opinions differ, still when we have such a competent and disinterested judge (one who has reached such a high standard in his own work), we can be sure that his decisions are not far out, and I hope that those of us who were beaten will make renewed efforts, so that next time we may be at the top. In my opinion it is a benefit for us to be beaten sometimes, for it of times happens when we are winning, we get careless or fail to progress, while if we are beaten now and then we accordingly redouble our efforts to regain the position we once held, so you will observe it is by this see saw process that we may expect to improve.

The secretary's financial statement, which showed a satisfactory credit balance, was read and adopted, and the Society's liabilities, totaling £1 14s 11d, were passed for payment.

The result of the last competition of the half-year (set of pictorial postcards) was announced as follows:
CLASS A: L. Birt (average) Percentage 94, 1st; J.A. Nielsen (average), 70, 2nd.
CLASS B: J.B.Aspinall (average), 74, 1st; G. Monks (average), 57, 2nd.

This proved to be the most popular competition of the half-year, and was keenly contested. The program for the next term was drawn out, and included therein are the following competitions: Landscapes, flower studies, portraits (un-retouched), cloud effects, and picture postcards, besides the usual complement of working nights.

Votes of thanks were unanimously accorded to Mr. F. Murray, for acting as judge at the annual exhibition, and to Messrs. Harrington Ltd., for similar services in respect to the Club competitions from time to time. One new member was duly enrolled, and many others were mentioned, as probable candidates. Taking the advantages of the Society into consideration, and that a new term is just commencing, those contemplating the interesting and pleasurable art of amateur photography, cannot do better than become members of this Society of willing and energetic amateurs, whose work has proved very favorable at the recent InterCity Exhibitions.



21st September 1908  Page 340 - Vol. 15 No. 9 The Australasian Photographic Review

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The half-yearly meeting of members of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in August. The President Mr. George B. Black, occupied the chair, and gave the following interim report: This being our fifth halt-yearly meeting, before we proceed with the ordinary business I would like to congratulate the members upon the progress they have made, the Society to-day has a higher standard than it has had before. During the half-year just closed, besides our ordinary competitions, members or the Society have, competed at various district exhibitions, and at the National Exhibitions in Brisbane. I am pleased to say that we were very successful at all of them; in fact, at Maryborough we practically swept the program, and at Brisbane and Bundaberg we gained most of the awards. The credit of this is largely due to Messrs. L. Birt and J.A. Nielsen. The younger members of the Society have made good progress, and showed their pluck by competing on even terms with older members at our recent Exhibition, and, although they did not succeeded in gaining the coveted first, the judge was so pleased with their work that he awarded them several seconds. Our yearly Exhibition, held under the auspices of the Gympie A.M. and P. Society, was very successful.

The Secretary’s financial statement, which showed a satisfactory credit balance, was read and adopted. The result of the last competition of the half-year (set of four pictorial postcards) was announced as follows; Class A: L. Birt (average) percentage 91, first; J.A. Neilson (average) 70 per cent., second. Class B: J.S. Aspinall (average) 74 per cent., first; G. Monks (average) 57 per cent., second. This proved to be the most popular competition of the half-year, and was keenly contested.

The program for the next term was drawn out, and included therein are the following competitions; Landscapes, Flower Studies, Portraits (un-retouched), Cloud Effects, and Picture Postcards, be sides the usual complement of working nights.



22nd March 1909  Page 154 - Vol. 16 No. 3 The Australasian Photographic Review

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Gympie Amateur Photographic Society, now entering upon its fourth year of usefulness, was founded for the purpose of promoting closer acquaintance among amateurs, interchange of ideas and suggestions, instruction of beginners, and of encouraging the art of photography locally. During its existence there has been a gratifying increase in its roll of membership.

In the past year the society has done good work with twenty regular meetings, all well attended, embracing a very comprehensive syllabus. Great progress has been made in the beginners classes of instruction, which are held regularly in addition to the general meetings.

At the annual exhibition, held in August, the work shown was of a very creditable character, while some of the exhibitors have been prize-winners at the inter-city exhibitions.



Thursday 2nd December 1909  Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Mary River for several miles up from the pumping station was ravaged by a swarm of camera fiends on Sunday last. The occasion was a field day of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society when the members of the Society, together with a number of invited guests, had an enjoyable picnic on the river. The party, numbering thirty, started from the pumping station, where they were welcomed by the President of the Society (Mr. George Black). A mile or so beyond the Six-Mile Creek the party left the boats, and after "boiling the billy" and satisfying the wants of the inner man again proceeded on what proved to be an eventful voyage. There were about a score of cameras at work during the afternoon, and some members of the party obtained several good "pictures". After a strenuous but most enjoyable day the party arrived back at the pumping station at about 5 o'clock wet but happy. The Society proposes to hold these "field days" periodically, and they should become very popular amongst those who have contracted the camera hobby.



Thursday 23rd December 1909  Page 29 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Of the numerous hobbies that, men take up for amusement and recreation amateur photography is perhaps one of the most entertaining. Of course in many instances relatives and acquaintances have to suffer; they are generally made the victims of the tyro's new born enthusiasm and have to provide the numerous failures that are invariably the lot of the beginner who possesses an uncontrollable desire to "take" things. Most persons, however, who become enamored of photography soon get through the experimental stage and begin to develop a taste for pictorial effects ; then they become less of a nuisance to their friends. One of the chief objects of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society is to cultivate in its members a taste for artistic work, and in striving to attain this object a real good is accomplished. It is generally acknowledged that photography, if not an art in the same sense as painting, music, and sculpture, is a mechanical process in which the artistic capabilities of the operator may find plenty of scope. To strive to express harmonious thoughts and feelings is the mission of art, and to do this even by the aid of mechanical appliances cannot but benefit the man or woman who is /imbued with this motive. The Society has been in existence for several years, and amongst its members who have distinguished themselves by gaining prizes at exhibitions, both locally and at other towns in the State, are Mr. G. Black (the President of the Society), and Messrs. L. Birt, J. Nielsen, G. Stratigos, and G. Monks. The first four mentioned have attained to a high state of efficiency and they each possess innumerable medals and certificates of evidence of their skill. There are many others who are acquiring the knowledge that will enable them to produce high class work in course of time. The Society just now is in a flourishing condition and new members are continually joining. Rooms have been taken in Nash-street, where members fore gather every week to practice the mysteries of "developing", "fixing", "reducing", "intensifying", and the thousand and one things that are a part of the photographer's art. In addition to this, lectures are given by the older members, and these are followed by discussions, in which everyone is free to participate. By this means a a great deal of valuable information is gained, and the objects of the Society, to foster artistic aims, are to a great extent attained. A few weeks ago the Society had a "Field Day" when members with a few invited guests spent a day up the river. The photograph shown above was taken on this occasion, and serves to indicate that the camera enthusiasts of Gympie are an agreeable lot of comrades who know how to enjoy themselves. The picture wastaken near the junction of the Six Mile Creek with the Mary River by Mr. J. Nielsen, who, consequently, does not appear in the group. Mr. L. Birt's camera was used for the purpose, and we are indebted to the latter for a copy of the photograph, which he "developed" and "printed".



Saturday 26th February 1910  Page 6 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The fourth annual meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Society's rooms, Nash-street, Gympie, on Tuesday evening. There was a good attendance of members. The President, Mr. G.B. Black, extended a welcome to Mr. A.L. Walker, after his recent trip abroad, and trusted that the Society would benefit by the photographic knowledge he had attained during his travels. The President gave a report of the Club's proceedings for the past year, remarking that members winning in open competition at the last Gympie Eisteddfod, and exhibitions held respectively, at Ipswich, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Maryborough and Gympie, and in connection with the "Ballarat Star" competition (one of the Secretary's pictures was reproduced in that journal), the Society had been splendidly advertised, besides proving that the work of the Gympie Amateurs could compare very favorably with any in the State.

The financial statement for the past half-year was read and adopted, and after the liabilities of the Club are liquidated, there will remain a small credit balance with which to commence the new term.

The following officers were duly elected:

ELECTION OF OFFICERS 1910 - 1911						PATRON Hon. F.I. POWER M.L.C.		PRESIDENT Mr. George B. Black
Vice President: Mr. George Stratigos	Vice President: Mr. A.L. Walker	Vice President: Mr. S.J. Aspinall	Hon. Secretary: Mr. Leonard Birt	Hon. Treasurer: Mr. Thomas H. White	Librarian: Mr. T.T. Lyons	Lanternist: Mr. D. Guy	Committee: Mr. T. Dunstan	Committee: Mr. J.A. Nielson	Committee: Mr. R. Moore

The program for the half-year was compiled and ordered to be printed, and included therein are the following competitions: Landscape's, genre study, postcards, night photography, depicting an industry, and membership card design, besides the usual number of working nights. The President will also continue his instruction class for members on Monday nights, and Mr. Stratigos has kindly consented to teach the art of coloring photographs on Saturday afternoons. Seven new members were proposed and received into the Society. It is satisfactory to note that since the Club secured more central rooms in the city, the membership has grown considerably, and as a new term is just about to commence with all facilities afforded to beginners, those contemplating, the pleasing and interesting hobby cannot do better than enrol. A vote of thanks, proposed by Mr. T. Dunstan, and carried by acclamation to the outgoing President and his officers, concluded an enjoyable meeting.



Thursday 10th November 1910  Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The weekly meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Club room on Tuesday, the President (Mr. G. Black), in the chair.

The result of the last competition (Miscellaneous subjects), was announced as follows: G. Black 98 per cent., G. Monks 95, Chas. Stratigos 94, J.A. Njelsen 90 and A.L. Walker 85.

It was resolved, after some discussion, to allow the presentation of medals to the winners of competitions during the current half year to stand over until the annual meeting. It was also decided to hold a field day in the near future and Messrs. G. Black, G. Stratigos, T.H. White and, A.L. Walker were appointed a committee to make the necessary arrangements.



Saturday 4th March 1911  Page 3 - Gympie Times and Mary River Mining Gazette (Queensland)
22nd March 1911  Page 170 - Vol. 18 No. 3 The Australasian Photographic Review

GYMPIE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The annual meeting of the Gympie Amateur Photographic Society was held in the Club rooms on Thursday 2nd March, 1911. After the usual routine business had been disposed of, the following officers were duly elected for the ensuing term:

ELECTION OF OFFICERS 1911 - 1912							PATRON Mr. A.G. RAMSAY		PRESIDENT Mr. George B. Black
Vice President: Mr. George Stratigos	Vice President: Mr. A.L. Walker	Vice President: Mr. S.J. Aspinall	Hon. Secretary: Mr. Leonard Birt	Assistant Secretary: Mr. F. Short	Hon. Treasurer: Mr. Thomas H. White	Librarian: Mr. T.T. Lyons	Lanternist: Mr. D. Guy	Committee: Mr. J.H. Strout	Committee: Mr. J.A. Nielson	Committee: Mr. W.S. Harvey

The president, in his address, congratulated the members on the success achieved at competing at the various exhibitions during the year. As an inducement for more enthusiasm to be displayed in our own competitions, medals were offered as prizes, and these were distributed to the winners of the competitions during the last term. The Society’s best thanks are due to Messrs. Kodak (Australasia) Ltd., in acknowledging receipt of their journal month by month, which is much appreciated.

The members were treated to a lantern entertainment by Mr. Guy, when some fine pictorial slides were screened, including a good collection taken by Mr. A.L. Walker during his recent world’s tour.

LEONARD BIRT
HON.SECRETARY

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