[talk-au] OSM representation in Australia

[Matt White]

We had a discussion on local chapters a while ago, and I think there was 
a bit of to and fro with Etienne in the UK about setting up an LC here 
(can't remember if that was on or off list). At that stage, the OSMF 
weren't sure which way was up, but that looks to be changing.

I'd be keen to do something local chapter-wise, just not actually sure 
what. I've never set up a non-profit association type entity before, and 
no doubt the various applicable laws will provide us with endless joy, 
but the concept of a formal AU umbrella organisation certainly appeals.

But it's a lot of organisation/hassle etc so whoever is taking charge 
will need a fair bit of time. However, there's nothing stopping us from 
creating a local OSM organisation with or without the consent of Mum and 
Dad (OSM/OSMF)

As delta foxtrot says, it does make negotiation with local government, 
business etc far easier, and there are all manner of grants and the like 
for non-profits available if we had grand plans, especially for 
rural/regional Australia.

Given the size of Australia, and more specifically the low population 
density, we probably need a more organised approach to mapping the place 
if we are serious about trying to complete the entire country.

I do like the concept of getting schools involved - it's an excellent 
way to get all the little towns in AU mapped, and it's the kind of thing 
(locally focused, global benefit) that would appeal to not just schools 
in small towns but a lot of other entities in those towns. (Ages ago I 
was looking for anybody in the Naracoorte area to kick off mapping 
Naracoorte, cos once it's done, the local paper will start using the 
maps for publication over the ones they are currently buying each week, 
plus the cost to all the advertisers who run maps in their display ads)

Hey, out of interest, how many people on this list are OSMF members?

OK, I'll stop talking now...

Matt

John Smith wrote:
> Just to let everyone know what's happening, the guy I work for has become interested in both helping the community and to get into selling mapping services. He also has numerous business connections.
>
> There has already been some unofficial talks with a company that makes phone handsets with GPS/3G and they seem willing to donate quite a number of these for some kind of schools/education programme.
>
> The idea is the phones would be lent out on a per month basis, along with an education pack describing all the ways schools can get involved in various activities, hopefully it can be made fun and exciting. :)
>
> For this to happen there needs to be some kind of official presence for these companies to deal with, if they donate goods it has to be owned by some entity, as the company offering phones won't want to deal with schools directly.
>
> Most government departments don't like dealing with individuals so there needs to be an official group behind this.
>
> I don't know if starting a local chapter would be the best solution, but on the other hand things might be made more difficult, if things default to OSMF in the UK.
>
> However before any of this can occur I really need to know if people have a genuine concern with setting up a local chapter or not.
>