Leaving the Web Standards Group

I sent this email earlier today to the Web Standards Group core mailing list:

I let Russ know earlier this week that it was time for me to hang up my WSG hat.

While I’ve never really been one for engaging on the mailing list, so haven’t come to know the core members in other cities as well as others, I have been running the Melbourne WSG events for about 4 years now.

My reasons for moving on are largely personal (family commitments, plus a personal project that I’m working on), but there is more to it. While there will always be a place for webby social events and education, I don’t think that web standards as a movement is the important force for moving the web forward that it once was. When you no longer believe that the cause you’re investing time in is having a big impact, the role of organising these meetings just becomes an events management chore … and nobody wants chores in their life.

I don’t know what the future holds for WSG events in Melbourne—encouraging volunteerism in Melbourne has long been an uphill battle. I don’t really understand why that is, but the benefits of running WSG Melbourne have been very tangible for me, from both a personal and professional perspective. Adam, Will and Ricardo, who have helped out in various capacities in the past, may have a vision for the future, but they too have (ever expanding) family commitments so I guess we’ll see.

Melbourne has long been a horse that you can lead to water, but can’t force to drink. Cameron Adams made a similar observation several years ago before moving to Sydney.

At any rate, I’d like to praise everyone on this core mailing list for the efforts they put in, however large or small, whether with the list or forum or with the events. In particular, Russ Weakley, I don’t know how you keep on keeping on, but you have my utmost respect for it—thanks for everything.

posted: 16.10. 2009, 15:53 Comment (5)

Sponsor Me In "Around The Bay In A Day"

This Sunday I’m riding in the Around The Bay In A Day charity bike ride.

While I’m mostly doing it for fun (there are a bunch of us from work riding as a team) the actual goal of the organisation coordinating the ride is to raise money for The Smith Family, who have been helping disadvantaged Australian children and their families for over 80 years.

If you sponsor me in this ride, your donation will help young Aussies get access to education, health services and other support that you and I probably took for granted growing up.

You can donate easily online. The Smith Family is aiming to raise $1 million, so any amount is appreciated.

Donate here

posted: 11.10. 2009, 21:26 Comment (0)

Web Standards Group Meeting: Everything You Know About CSS Is Wrong!

The first WSG meeting of the year will be held next Monday, and will see SitePoint’s own Kevin Yank tackling a topic about which he co-authored a book about late last year—CSS Tables. The title of the book in question, Everything You Know About CSS Is Wrong, caused quite a stir (including several customers who felt insulted enough to ask for a refund on every CSS title that they’d bought from us in the past!)

As usual, the event will be held at Loop Bar in the city.

It’s time to learn a whole new approach to CSS layout—at least, that’s what SitePoint Technical Director Kevin Yank says in his recent book, Everything You Know About CSS Is Wrong. Come along and see what all the fuss is about! Are CSS Tables really the layout tool of the future? Find out why Kevin believes they’re actually ready for prime time today, and tell him if you agree.

As always, the event is FREE and promises to be a good show. We’ve had 83 RSVPs so far, but we’re keen to see if we can crack 100 again (we’ve done it before!). Spread the word amongst your friends and workmates, and I hope to see you there!

For more details and to RSVP visit the Web Standards Group site.

posted: 13.02. 2009, 20:53 Comment (0)