On Natcons, Ditmars and controversies
Yeah, I know – I'm stark raving bonkers to be getting involved. But seeing the anger and hurt that's flooding the web, I can't say nothing.
So first – congratulations to Alisa and the con com. You did a fantastic job in running the convention. Sure, there were hiccups – we're human, that's what happens. But you had a dream, you worked your arse off and for me at least provided the BEST convention I've ever been too. I know that right now, you're all utterly exhausted and trying to get back to the real world while dealing with everything and it might be hard to see but – you done good.
Second – congratulations to all the winners of the Tin Ducks and Ditmars. I was so thrilled to be part of the award show in my own small way, and so proud of how it all went. I know that every single person who went up there to receive an award has worked really, really hard to produce work they can be proud of and you deserve the moment of acclaim. So to do the other nominees – I thought it was one of the best ballots I've seen in years and shows how strong the industry is in Australia at the moment.
Third – at the next Natcon Business Meeting, I'll be putting forward a proposal for a formal review process for Natcons and Ditmars. The controversies that seem to arise annually after each Natcon/Ditmar have to stop. They provide no value, don't change anything and simply hurt people and create fractures in our community. A formal process would allow people to have their say, for it to be presented for discussion within the community in an objective manner and would also mean it gets considered at business meetings and can therefore be an agent of change, if the change is necessary. It does mean more work for the Natconcom, but it would seem it's a burden that needs to be borne for the sake of our community and industry.
I remember what the week following the Conflux I chaired was like – I was tired, I was sick and over the two weeks I took off to run the convention, my work life fell apart. If I'd encountered the anger and vitriol that I've seen online in the past couple of days – it would near have destroyed me. Thinking about how Alisa and the con committee and Ditmar organisers might be feeling right now has tears welling in my eyes.
These are REAL people, with thoughts and feelings that are being discussed here. Let's keep that in mind, shall we?
