PHILAS NSW Committee appear to have lost $3 MILLION in about a year?

GYDAM · Post by **GYDAM** » 06 Jan 2023 16:23

briggia · Post by **briggia** » 06 Jan 2023 16:50

they may be needing a few more of these

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 06 Jan 2023 17:29

There has been some movement at the station.

The Philatelic Society of New South Wales has been asked to clean out it's cabinet in the meeting room. I presume the other societies that meet there have also been asked.

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 06 Jan 2023 18:12

briggia wrote: ↑06 Jan 2023 08:23

I’ve had the privilege of serving for a number of years on the executive of a not-for-profit (a registered charity) at Vice President level. An elected position, elected by the membership.

The membership base was made up of corporate entities, many of them significant blue-chips.

If the exec. had acted in the manner that the Philas exec. appear to be in relation to this significant, business changing, action then I can assure you that we would have been ousted at the very next AGM.

Corporate governance be damned it would seem to me.

That is life in the REAL world of businessmen.

Yes, agree, the PHILAS Executive has handled this whole super secret purchase appallingly, by not canvassing the membership, in a timely and well briefed manner - in ADVANCE. Just bumbling and floundering about in haste, spending ¬$6 million on whatever seemed to fit the mad brief for a 'mega big warehouse - ANYWHERE', with apparently ZERO input from the members, is just beyond belief.

There was ZERO real urgency to sell or buy. The more correct and more transparent procedure would be to have raised this at an AGM or an Extraordinary Meeting. Commonplace for major decisions - in the REAL world. NORMAL procedure would be to raise it at the AGM - and then clearly outline this planned activity, tble the likely cost, and get votes on it.

The AGM was end of November -- not WORD of the sale and purchase in the report of it there - which had both occurred.

https://www.philas.net.au/_files/ugd/817a78_a4647390094d4996b84bb07e133d3edb.pdf

The reasons to move seemed perfectly valid, (other than this lemming madness for the occasional auctions to be better equipped than Gaertner) and selling to near the top of the CBD market cycle was also wise - but WHERE to relocate, and a what cost, has been the wild card.

Even today - 3 months after signing to buy, no-one officially knows where and when and at what cost, via the official PHILAS HOUSE member newsletter. Not a word in there, or on the website. Not even in the 'NEWS' category on website. If selling PHILAS house for $7.3m, and buying a warehouse for mega millions is not member NEWS the entire Committee many might suggest, should be booted off for laziness and disinterest.

PHILAS allegedly have a ''Publicity Officer'' (in name only it seems) - member here Mark Bailey, who is also on the Committee running about doing the buying and selling, so knows all the detail, and cost and dates. He just does not bother sharing it with his members or the stamp hobby.

I was President of a Body Corporate Committee until very recently. (Also a time-consuming volunteer job of course.) NOTHING of any major expenditure nature took place until stakeholders were advised and consulted FIRST. It is not very hard. I got many firm quotes on several 6 figure projects. All in writing, all rock solid, and above board. Not very hard.

THOUSANDS of NSW Collectors bought these kind of things below to support buying PHILAS HOUSE - the purchase funds came from collectors - me included.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 06 Jan 2023 20:48

Glen,

you forgot to mention one of the reasons for selling,

Watching a PHILAS auction live on your mobile phone whilst you are at the beach. Live streaming. Cloud storage. Uploading of images.

David B.

Aden · Post by **Aden** » 07 Jan 2023 08:33

David Benson wrote: ↑06 Jan 2023 20:48 Glen,

you forgot to mention one of the reasons for selling,

Watching a PHILAS auction live on your mobile phone whilst you are at the beach. Live streaming. Cloud storage. Uploading of images.
David B.

and watching your previously confirmed bids NOT being actioned.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 08 Jan 2023 07:15

I have been in contact with the editor of Philas News.

He has informed me that the link to the Volunteer's page has been added to the Home Page,

https://www.philas.net.au/

David B.

satsuma · Post by **satsuma** » 08 Jan 2023 07:30

David Benson wrote: ↑06 Jan 2023 20:48 Glen,

you forgot to mention one of the reasons for selling,

Watching a PHILAS auction live on your mobile phone whilst you are at the beach. Live streaming. Cloud storage. Uploading of images.
David B.

In and of itself, upgrading of tech capability is not a reason to move.

Purchase the equipment, which would take up no more room than a cupboard, install it, and you are good to go.

The smarts needed to run it, is perhaps another matter.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 08 Jan 2023 07:37

Satsuma,

of course, the statement from the Publicity Officer was made by a person who was on an ego trip. He enjoyed wandering around the building wearing a large badge " PHILAS, PUBLICITY OFFICER " no one else had any ID.

David B.

Ubobo.R.O. · Post by **Ubobo.R.O.** » 08 Jan 2023 10:16

David Benson wrote: ↑08 Jan 2023 07:15 I have been in contact with the editor of Philas News.
He has informed me that the link to the Volunteer's page has been added to the Home Page,
https://www.philas.net.au/
David B.

: Trawl to the bottom of the home page to find the volunteers link.

: Two screenshots of the volunteers page.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 08 Jan 2023 10:45

interesting terminology,

For retired collectors, time spent at Philas House can be a day out communing with like-minded people.

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 08 Jan 2023 16:30

David Benson wrote: ↑08 Jan 2023 07:37
Satsuma,

Of course, the statement from the Publicity Officer was made by a person who was on an ego trip.

He enjoyed wandering around the building wearing a large badge " PHILAS, PUBLICITY OFFICER " - no one else had any ID.

David B.

Well he should surely hand in his badge? The Website STILL does not even mention the $7.3m SALE from 3 months back. Appalling. They just updated webpage to add VOLUNTEERS link - so why not the SALE price ????

This is the same Mark Bailey who phoned me to say he was bringing over my auction lots from months back, and made a firm appointment time for the next day.

Changed my schedule to fit this in, and no sign of him. No phone, no email - no show. No hope. STILL no invoice, still no lots, and PHILAS still has not made one bean on those bids.

Seems like he and Mike Nibbs are the prime movers to set up PHILAS to be the new Gaertner auction of the Southern Hemisphere? With just 3 modest sales a year.

They have apparently spent near as much on a room full of computers and scanners as they will bring in, for a year in fees. ''Very Cunning Business Plan.'' Maybe they have shares in Harvey Normans?

Maybe they could buy their own warehouse, and 20 computers and scanners, and use 'cloud storage' and charge 25% Buyer Fees, for lots VERY sketchily described. Then PHILAS can move to far smaller, and FAR more suitable, and for more cost effective premises. License the auction to them for a modest fee, then PHILAS always makes something. And if Nibbs goes broke in 6 months, which he will - no financial loss to PHILAS.

THEN the needless $2 Million more than needed etc, planned to be totally wasted on this massive White Elephant, and all the totally uncosted and unknown new work, can go into an interest bearing account earning 5% yearly, leaving $100,000 year to spend on promoting PHILATELY in the state, not playing at being a Mega auction - which they will NEVEEEEEEEEER be.

Seems like PHILAS wisely promised this $2 Million was to be ring-fenced by the savvy old Committee, and carefully invested, but the newbies have apparently forgotten that plan, in the frantic race to be warehouse owning tycoons.

They do not have the material, the contacts, the platform, the software, the website, the experience, the staff, the know how, or the business savvy for that. Leave that to those who do, and stick to the successful general box lot type sales, they always did very well at.

Even handling one decent bequest collection from Ron Flowers - totally donated material, all 100% profit whatever they got, they screwed up badly, and a large chunk was never sold. The Flowers Estate I'm guessing were NOT impressed? I for one, have never seen an invoice for my purchases from it, or one stamp I bid on.

Not getting a single bid on long lines of totally donated GB I840 Penny Blacks, and 5/- Harbour Bridges, or even securing an after action sale on any of them takes a very special talent. Buyer fee is 20% on them, so a huge extra windfall bonus, and yet PHILAS has not made one penny on those easy to sell stamps yet. Every cent was I00% PROFIT TO PHILAS. You just can't make this stuff up.

Often folks who have worked in the public service retire, but have had ZERO skills on budgets and real world expenses in the REAL world, and start playing in these type of hard nosed Boy's Own Adventures, with OTHER people's money. We know from history, the usual end result.

Seems to me PHILAS is spending well over a million more than they need to just so it can fulfil the space hogging dream of these two. It will take over TWENTY years of fees just to get that million back. And paying huge rates and fees and heating/cooling, and HUGE INSURANCE on all that unnecessary space over that time. Forget about making a PROFIT. This madness will COST money. Durrhhhh. This Mark Bailey is newly elected onto the PHILAS Executive it seems, at last AGM, so little chance of an outbreak of common sense.

Since Lionel Savins has stepped down after twenty plus years at the helm, it seems like the Radical Fringe has taken over in there. Sad.

Put all this to a member vote NOW, as SHOULD have occurred at the late November AGM, if $6 MILLION is considered being expended.

Glen

Post by **gavin-h** » 08 Jan 2023 23:19

Global Administrator wrote: ↑08 Jan 2023 16:30
Put all this to a member vote NOW, as SHOULD have occurred at the late November AGM, if $6 MILLION is considered being expended.

If this is a fully constituted organisation, there is presumably provision within the constitution to call an Emergency General Meeting.

Perhaps given the issues being raised here, that should be investigated and put into motion as a matter of urgency.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 09 Jan 2023 06:21

Gavin,

It appears that not many members of the various stamp clubs that make up Philas are interested.

I only happened to stumble onto the fact that the building was for sale last year when I saw that the liquor store building in the same street was sold. I was checking Google to see how much apartments were selling in the street and came across the advert. for offers for the Philas building.

David B.

Aden · Post by **Aden** » 09 Jan 2023 07:25

David Benson wrote: ↑09 Jan 2023 06:21
It appears that not many members of the various stamp clubs that make up Philas are interested.

Hence the easy 'takeover' by the current committee who are now free to play fast and loose with the future of PHILAS' hard-earned assets.

I wonder if the members will be interested when PHILAS disappears down the tube?

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 09 Jan 2023 07:30

Aden,

it is about time that the current committee started making some comments and update their webpage to show what is happening.

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 09 Jan 2023 13:45

gavin-h wrote: ↑08 Jan 2023 23:19
Global Administrator wrote: ↑08 Jan 2023 16:30
Put all this to a member vote NOW, as SHOULD have occurred at the late November AGM, if $6 MILLION is considered being expended.

If this is a fully constituted organisation, there is presumably provision within the constitution to call an Emergency General Meeting.

Perhaps given the issues being raised here, that should be investigated and put into motion as a matter of urgency.

You’d hope so Gavin. But those things generally take a month of advance notice being given etc. They will have moved in, before it can take place most likely.

We were told just this week they could have totally legally walked away from the planned purchase, at a cost of just a few $1,000.

Seems like a done deal now, without members having a clue some $6m of their funds have been committed to it - AND leaving the kitty near dry of future development funds.

This is a Committee totally derelict in its duties it seems to me.

Put the $7.3m in the bank earning 5%, which will more than pay the penalty cost to stay on in Brisbane Street, and THEN consult with members what to spend it on. And WHERE. And grab a distress sale, all fully cashed up then.

Then, we have some form of normal consultative democracy in progress, for the very largest sum PHILAS has spent in their 50 years history.

Right now we have top secret back room deals, done in haste - totally unknown and unapproved by members.

There are ¬9000 page views of this thread, and the new Committee naively thinking they can hide in their burrow, and do this stuff in total secret, has backfired on them very badly. It has seriously harmed the excellent work the past uncontroversial PHILAS committees have done over the past 50 years, and harmed the good name of PHILAS - IMHO.

Sunlight is a GREAT disinfectant.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 10 Jan 2023 06:22

Glen,

I have been looking online to see if there was any other premises available that are vacant possession. I cannot find any,

David B.

Aden · Post by **Aden** » 10 Jan 2023 06:44

David Benson wrote: ↑10 Jan 2023 06:22 Glen,

I have been looking online to see if there was any other premises available that are vacant possession. I cannot find any,

David B.

Exactly what criteria are you using to search on David?

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 10 Jan 2023 06:51

Size of the property, at least 850sm.,

I have been looking around the Silverwater area.

I presume that the contracts for 20 Egerton Street have already been signed by now.

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 10 Jan 2023 12:48

David Benson wrote: ↑10 Jan 2023 06:51
I presume that the contracts for 20 Egerton Street have already been signed by now.

Not so sure actually.

I understand from a member of the Special Top Secret Purchasing Committee Inc in recent days, that the PHILAS offer has not even been formally accepted yet by the Silverwater Vendor.

So they apparently can walk way from it all, at near zero cost. Earn 5% on the $7.3m, and be totally cashed up to grab a FIRE SALE, (there will be endless Bank Mortgagee sales this year at well under last year price levels) AND at long last, keep the PHILAS members formally in the loop, as to what they're actually up to.

Clearly no-one at PHILAS Brass has any interest in having their actions approved or even known about, by those whose mega millions they are spending, but they really need to.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 10 Jan 2023 13:16

Glen,

I have no idea what is going on and why someone with some authority has not made a public statement or a comment on their web page.

I was told when I visited the premises that it is an open ended date when the property will be vacant as a property could not be found for their requirements.

The problem is the Vacant Possession date at Brisbane Street.

I was told that the various clubs that have cabinets at the back of the meeting room have to be emptied.

There is another query I do not know the answer. Royal Sydney did not donate it's library to Philas and it is held in cabinets in another room. Presumably It would be their responsibility to remove it from the premises, not Philas's.

Last year when a property at Hurstville was being mentioned, I was told the price was 6M. I was told it was almost perfect with little work needed. I never saw the property of even knew what the address was. I was told that there was plenty of parking.

I was later told by a Philas volunteer who had visited the property that it would not be a suitable property.

It had no street parking and the parking was underground down three narrow circular driveways which would only be suitable for small cars. Luckily it had been sold before a decision was made.

David B.

ebayer · Post by **ebayer** » 10 Jan 2023 14:58

David Benson wrote: ↑10 Jan 2023 13:16
I have no idea what is going on, and why someone with some authority has not made a public statement or a comment on their web page.

Too scared they will be held accountable if this buy turns out to be an expensive White Elephant?

If this is a new Committee, as has been posted, they need to fast read up on correct procedure when handling multi millions of association funds. Looks like amateur hour to me so far.

'Consultation Is King.' Secret deals never work out - anywhere. There are always public forums like this where the truth can be discovered. Keep members informed - even just the broad strokes. So far not a word has been posted to them, it seems on website or official Journal? Very BAD management.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 10 Jan 2023 20:54

This was noted in the October edition of Philas News.

For some time now we have been squeezed
for space at Philas House, especially when it
comes to finding space for the box lots that pass
through the auctions. It has not been helped
by the expansion of the Library, as books and
journals, both bought and donated, keep rolling
in and have to be housed. As a result, over
the past several months, we have had a group
searching for a property for our needs and with
up to twice the floor area of the current Philas
House. Nothing suitable has yet been found, so
we are still searching. Philas House does carry
a “For Sale” sign, but we must have a place to go
to before we vacate the current property.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 10 Jan 2023 21:10

David that detail was posted here two weeks back. Not a single word yet the current place has been sold. With a very fast shrinking member base, they do NOT need TWICE the current space! 'Less Is More'.

Global Administrator wrote: ↑29 Dec 2022 17:13
Aden wrote: ↑29 Dec 2022 07:45
Philas House sounds like a drop-in centre for ageing stamp collectors to sit and chat.

That's no bad thing, and that ex-church Glen posted a picture of looks perfect for that.

I went to a club auction (which is what these folks are running, let's be honest) held in a church recently and it was perfect.

So looks to me like a former church would suit them as both a bi-weekly drop-in centre and a bi-annual club auction venue. Far more attractive than some ghastly tin shed on an industrial estate for ageing philatelists to live out their days.

LOTS of PHILAS clubs have meetings and auctions in Churches. They just do not own them.

I am still gobsmacked at the apparent lack of consultation with PHILAS member Clubs, over all this MEGA Million $ move.

The Founding 1971 PHILAS NEWS promises that the magazine will be a venue where such moves will be discussed and canvassed among members. Basic common sense.

When the APS in the USA moved from State College members had extensive input on that move.

50 years on, the latest PHILAS NEWS edition published - October 2022, has a note the current premises 'are for sale' and that a new location TWICE the current size is being sought. No location, no price mentioned. No mention another million will need to be poured into it. Lonnnng term President Lionel Savins delivering that news has retired now - a lovely guy. New Committee are running things now.

Looks to me like there was ZERO advice and approval and consultation with rank and file members clubs as to that purchase - which as we see has already been made, for $4.4 million. A corrugated roof barn out in Silverwater - nowhere near fit for purpose yet, until another million+++ is squandered, they will never get back. And they appear to have agreed to pay about $30,000 a month now, to the new owner to STAY at Brisbane Street until Silverwater gets sorted.

I am a long term member of a PHILAS affiliated Club who meet at PHILAS House - if I did not read stampboards, this ill-advised purchase would not be known to me at all yet.

For such a vast $A5 Million+ expenditure of collector monies, by far the largest in their history - I'd have assumed INPUT and APPROVAL was sought from member Clubs - and members, who really own the asset?

It appears not. As far as they know via PHILAS NEWS, the Brisbane Street building is still for sale. The first they will hear about it whenever a new PHILAS NEWS appears - long done deal by then by 3 months.

FAR less costly and more suitable options were of course possible - like any number of ex Churches as pointed out - far more comfortable, and attractive, and central. But SOMEONE decided in a very rapidly declining member base era, they needed TWICE the current space! True Monty Python stuff.

briggia · Post by **briggia** » 10 Jan 2023 22:10

David Benson wrote: ↑10 Jan 2023 13:16 Glen,

I have no idea what is going on and why someone with some authority has not made a public statement or a comment on their web page.

Probably because they are hiding behind a ‘nothing to say’ if the Silverwater shed hasn’t been formalised/accepted yet……

Agree with recent comments re spending $M’s and being transparent at each step of the way.

What I’m at a loss to understand is why the affiliated member associations are being so quiet on this. After all it’s their $$ being spent. What are they afraid of. Speak up and force the thing into the light.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 11 Jan 2023 19:11

It looks like we will have to wait until the next edition of Philas News is published to find out what is happening,

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 12 Jan 2023 13:52

briggia wrote: ↑10 Jan 2023 22:10

What I’m at a loss to understand is why the affiliated member associations are being so quiet on this. After all it’s their $$ being spent. What are they afraid of. Speak up and force the thing into the light.

I hear there are some unhappy campers among them.

Total lack of communication from 'on high' from this new committee over the $6 million planned purchase/Reno etc.

The chap running round cheerfully wearing the 'PUBLICITY OFFICER' badge should turn it in.

What a joke.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 13 Jan 2023 12:20

It looks like there has to be a correction on their Library webpage.

It states

The Library also houses the library of the Royal Sydney Philatelic Club (RSPC) and the Philatelic Society of New South Wales (PS of NSW). Visitors can consult both of these libraries but only members of the RSPC and the PS of NSW can borrow from them.

This is incorrect as the PSNSW donated it's library to Philas a few years ago and is now incorporated into it.

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 14 Jan 2023 16:40

David if that is correct, they truly are clueless in there.

Why not have ONE central library, and dumpster or sell off all the tons of presumably duplicated material from several other old libraries? Moving tons of foxed and duplicated magazine and catalogues to a mega million warehouse, bigger than they need, is dumber than dirt.

Anyway for the record it is now 4.30pm on January 14. Tomorrow is 'mid-January.' 'PHILAS is moving now in 'Mid-January' it seems, their website trumpets, to a location unknown to anyone.

https://www.philas.net.au/

The ***ONLY*** word on the entire PHILAS website that the current premises have been sold, (which it was, THREE months back) and that they are moving, is this note below saying that move is taking place this weekend, on the very front page of their website - a website several Committee members can update at will, it seems clear.

IF they can be bothered.

'Watch This website for updates' will as usual, be a total waste of time. It is like Monty Python in there.

If it were not for stampboards highlighting this sale and purchase, almost no-one would have a clue it occurred. That is NOT open governance, or transparent or SMART, when SEVEN $$$ MILLION is involved. This thread has well over 10,000 page views already. PHILAS has just a few 100 members I am advised - sunlight is the best disinfectant to secretive and furtive "Committees', that deliberately choose NOT to keep members updated when spending MILLIONS of their funds.

The term 'Train Wreck' really sums up many of the current Committee in there -

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 14 Jan 2023 18:59

Glen,

Philas has been selling their duplicate books for many years.

David B.

banknoteguy · Post by **banknoteguy** » 15 Jan 2023 00:16

I love the train wreck image!

This surely seems headed for more drama. Is the Philas board not listed somewhere?

I tried to find such a list on their website but no luck, but I took only a quick look.

You would think you could bring more attention to this if each individual board member is identified by name.

More on the train wreck from France in 1895:

: Gare de l’Ouest [Mountparnasse] 1895

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 15 Jan 2023 07:19

banknoteguy,

the old executive,

PRESIDENT: Mr L Savins
VICE-PRESIDENTS: Mr D. Collyer (Country); Mr D. Jones (PHILAS House Committee);
Mr E. Wolf (Philatelic Development Council); Dr. G. Kellow (PHILAS Library)
HON. SECRETARY: Mrs B. Hancock APR HON.
TREASURER: Mr P Myers
AUCTION CONVENOR: Mr W Mair ASST. TREASURER: Mr J. Batson
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Mrs L. Lee, Mr T W Ilbery
PHILAS NEWS Editorial Committee: Mr G. Morriss (Editor), Mrs B. Hancock APR,
Mr L. Savins
PUBLICITY OFFICER: Mark Bailey
HON. SOLICITOR: Mr M. Gamble

David B.

maxima · Post by **maxima** » 15 Jan 2023 16:06

The new NSW PHILAS Executive elected November 2022 AGM - copy of information from home page of NSW PHILAS Website:

4 NEW FACES ON PHILAS BOARD.

JOHN MOORE FROM NEWCASTLE PHILATELIC SOCIETY ELECTED UNOPPOSED.
LIONEL SAVINS RETIRES AFTER 26 YEARS.

The AGM of the Philatelic Association of NSW was held on Saturday 26 November 2022.
Without a doubt the BIG NEWS is the retirement of Lionel Savins as President of PHILAS. Lionel was elected President in 1996. For every one of those 26 years, Lionel attended to the affairs of PHILAS with professionalism and enthusiasm. The many strengths of PHILAS found today owe much to Lionel Savins and his stewardship of PHILAS for much of its existence. The retirement had been widely anticipated as Lionel had advised the PHILAS Executive in January this year that a search for a replacement needed to be undertaken.

Elected unopposed to the position of President was John Moore from the Newcastle Philatelic Society.

John spent over 30 years working in heavy industry, much of this time in middle management positions which included managing and supervising workgroups, preparing annual budgets and liaising with customers. He has served on the Executive of the Newcastle Philatelic Society for over 30 years serving as Secretary, Vice President, and President.

John is known both within Australia and internationally for his involvement with the Australian Philatelic Federation(APF). During his 18 years as an APF director John has variously held the roles of Public Relations Officer, Secretary, vice-President, President and is currently State Liaison Officer. He also holds the current project positions for Customs and Australian delegate to the F.I.P. Traditional Philately Commission.

Also elected for the first time to the PHILAS Executive was Mark Bailey (Vice President – Country) (Richmond River Philatelic Society) who also remains Publicity Officer, James Ross (Turramurra Stamp Club) and Robert Layzell (The Smithfield Stamp Club).

Re-elected to the Executive Committee was Ed Wolf (Vice President – Philatelic Development Council), Geoff Kellow (Vice President – Library) and David Collyer (Committee Member). Barbara Hancock was also elected Secretary, a position she has held for 24 years. Peter Myers was also re-elected Treasurer, a position he has held since 2016.

The following Executive members were also re-elected: Graeme Morriss (who also takes on the role of Minute Secretary), Darren Jones (Vice President – House Committee) and Wilson Ilbery (Open Days and Club Liaison (City). Finally, the Assistant Treasurer, John Batson rejoins the board.

In welcoming the new and returning Executive members, Ed Wolf said that this was the biggest change to the organisation since its founding 50 years ago. Mr Wolf also praised the efforts of Lionel Savins. “Lionel has literally worked in a volunteer capacity for thousands of hours. In fact, the other day I heard that Lionel has put in 13,500 hours over the years.“ “That is a phenomenal effort“ Mr Wolf added.

Mr Savins thanked everyone for their support. He also paid a special tribute to both Bill Mair who in July stood down from the Auction Manager’s role, a position he had undertaken since the late 1980’s, and to Linda Lee. Linda Lee has served on the executive for 8 years and has also had a huge role in the success of the Philatelic Development Council of which she is Secretary. Linda will be retaining her involvement with the PDC.

To succeed Bill Mair, Mr Wolf noted that Mr Michael Nibbs has been appointed auction co-ordinator.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 15 Jan 2023 17:39

Maxima .. all this has been posted earlier.

The relevant timeline is this AGM being summarised was held END NOVEMBER.

PHILAS house had been well sold by then for $7.3 MILLION. Not a word about that in the AGM official summary to members.

NOT a word about where they had apparently decided to purchase at that point.

A Committee more secretive than anything North Korea would create!

For all anyone knows they invested the $7.3 million into Bitcoin etc.

Glen

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 15 Jan 2023 18:00

It can't be kept secret forever, it is 3 months before Brisbane Street has to vacated unless an arrangement has been made to extend the departure.

I was told by that the Egerton Street property cannot be vacated until a suitable property can be found.

David B.

satsuma · Post by **satsuma** » 15 Jan 2023 18:53

Looking back through this thread, it appears to me that PHILAS can only have made a conditional offer on any property it is interested in.

The original post stated that settlement date for the sale of the existing location was three months from the week of the 29th October, that is sometime in the next two weeks.

So, without that settlement the funds to purchase are not available.

What I find interesting is whether the incoming committee has had their hands tied by the outgoing committee.

If any agreement to purchase was signed prior to the AGM, then the current governance group would have the right to feel even more aggrieved than the members of the affiliated clubs.

I'd be crossing my fingers and toes that there are no settlement hiccups to the sale!

Pampstamp · Post by **Pampstamp** » 15 Jan 2023 22:00

satsuma wrote: ↑15 Jan 2023 18:53 Looking back through this thread, it appears to me that PHILAS can only have made a conditional offer on any property it is interested in.

The original post stated that settlement date for the sale of the existing location was three months from the week of the 29th October, that is sometime in the next two weeks.

So, without that settlement the funds to purchase are not available.

I'd be crossing my fingers and toes that there are no settlement hiccups to the sale!

Not necessarily so.

Philas have two options

1- Philas can exchange on a holding deposit to finalize due diligence on a proposed purchase before becoming unconditional( 10% deposit).

Settlement on both purchase and acquisition then need to be done simultaneously.
(It can settle the new purchase in as little as 3-4 weeks if agreed by both parties)

Any penalties as initially discussed or rent must be paid for not offering vacant procession to the purchaser at the city property after settlement.

2- It can settle on the sale, pay the penalties and find a suitable site in due course. It will then have the funds to settle as needed.

At most Philas will have a month or so before it needs to finalize its sale.

That is 2 weeks left in the 3 month settlement plus an additional 2 weeks notice to complete – which the vendor is not penalized.

Based on what was discussed I would say mid Feb 23.

There will be no settlement issues on the sale.

banknoteguy · Post by **banknoteguy** » 16 Jan 2023 00:37

Googling names I find the following for a number of people associated with this debacle. People on this thread must personally know some of these people. Surely.

Has anyone tried calling or emailing. Can anyone come up with better contacts??

I am just guessing that one or more of these individuals are deeply involved.

John Moore
Postal Address: PO Box 34, JESMOND 2299
Email: moore.john [at] optusnet.com.au

Mark Bailey
Phone: 0400 008 888
Email: lismorestamp [at] gmail.com

James Ross
Ph. 0459 162 835

Robert Layzell
Email: robert.layzell [ at ] bigpond.com
Phone: 9629-2454
Postal Address:
PO BOX 2612, SMITHFIELD, NSW 2164

Ed Wolf

: Philas, Development Council -- Have you seen this person???

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 16 Jan 2023 01:40

banknoteguy - most of the PHILAS Committee are members here, several are very active.

The details above are all publicly posted on the PHILAS website - so adding some of them here is nothing that cannot be found there.

Mark Bailey for instance is the alleged 'Publicity Officer' at PHILAS, (he wears a big badge reminding everyone) and is a recent member here.

Seeing PHILAS is clearly too disorganised and chaotic these days, to advise anyone, via their own journal or website, WHAT they are spending mega millions of COLLECTOR money on, and why, and where - here is the perfect venue - and FREE.

There are now over 11,000 page views GLOBALLY of what they are ham fistedly trying to cover up in there, like the Keystone Cops. Non-supportive posts from the USA, New Zealand, UK, and interstate from collectors who had never heard of PHILAS before. Sadly they have made themselves, and the hobby in this state a laughing stock - globally.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 21 Jan 2023 07:39

Has anyone heard or seen any action what is happening or reported,

David B.

Aden · Post by **Aden** » 21 Jan 2023 10:00

David Benson wrote: ↑21 Jan 2023 07:39 Has anyone heard or seen any action what is happening or reported,

David B.

It's still top secret David.

The Pentagon Papers had a lower security clearance than this.

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 21 Jan 2023 10:14

Thanks,

I was told they do not want to make a statement in Philas News until things have been finalized, but they will have to eventually,

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 21 Jan 2023 10:20

David Benson wrote: ↑21 Jan 2023 07:39
Has anyone heard or seen any action what is happening or reported,

David B.

The Top Secret Committee, squandering member moneys with no consultation or discussion or updates, is deep in meetings.

Their official PHILAS website advises that they moved premises last week in 'mid-January'. Location a State Secret. Cost a State Secret.

https://www.philas.net.au

As a result, all Club meetings are now to be held in secret in a park until further notice. Location unknown. There will be an Auction in the park, as the large room of computers and scanners needed to be used for SOMETHING, to justify their large cost. If it is raining, or too sunny, meetings and auctions under a Bridge somewhere, will be substituted.

Nothing actually needs to be sold, as that is clearly not the object of PHILAS Auctions these days. It is all about 'SHOW' and expenses.

A carrier pigeon will convey this news, as Newsletter Editor New Zealander, Graham Morris, is apparently not allowed to use the cherished computers for 'PHILAS NEWS' purposes, to keep members updated. It is the official organ of the Association, and it has been officially decided members need to know absolutely nothing about where their $7 million is being spent.

There is a mystery man that almost no-one has ever heard of, wearing a large 'PUBLICITY OFFICER' (sic) name tag, who will supervise and feed the Carrier Pigeons. He is somehow on the Secret Committee and has of course 'publicised' nothing of their decisions.

The flown pigeon 'flimsies' will be later Auctioned by the Supremos in there. More computers can then be bought. Then the new tin shed can have lots more of them. Rooms of them. DELL are being briefed, and a personal rep has been assigned. This will help fill up the tin shed somewhat, which is double the size they actually NEED.

DISCLAIMER - 'This summary is not endorsed, not approved, and has not been de-classified by the FBI, The Pope, Hillsong Church, the NSW Police Association, or Donald Trump.'

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 21 Jan 2023 10:44

I wonder if the members of the clubs that meet there have been informed if the meetings will be held or not,

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 21 Jan 2023 11:08

David Benson wrote: ↑21 Jan 2023 10:44
I wonder if the members of the clubs that meet there have been informed if the meetings will be held or not,

David B.

Don't be silly David. It is just $ millions of their money being spent, and they are clearly not consulted.

These are the last Minutes of the ACCC Club I belong to, just received his week, from Late November - who meet monthly at PHILAS HOUSE, City.

Clearly members there have no idea where their monthly meetings are being held in 2023 - or even if they have a room available to them it appears - and Chairman Geoff Kellow is on the general PHILAS Committee, and would certainly know more than most.

The official syllabus on the highly reliable PHILAS website, shows meetings for all 2023 are in Brisbane Street. (Sold last October for $7.3m, and vacated last few week, all are cheerfully advised on their website.)

Gawd help any poor sod who schleps themselves at night to Brisbane Street on these dates below, only to find meetings is now held under a Bridge, or in a public park, or tin shed somewhere out west. If they do not read stampboards, they will have zero clue of this bungled process

https://www.philas.net.au/commonwealth-collectors

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 22 Jan 2023 16:28

I have been told by a friend who visited Philas House last week that packing has started and the frames on the walls have been dismantled.

The important thing I was told is that an interim storage area has been arranged until the SIlverwater building is completed.

I do not know the arrangements,

David B.

BrianBURU · Post by **BrianBURU** » 22 Jan 2023 18:57

Here is some up to date sales information from the NSW Valuer General.

Two things to note are that the Silverwater address is 22 Egerton Street (not 20 as mentioned by David above), and that there is no recorded sale for 17 Brisbane Street in Surry Hills.

The reason for this is unclear, but it probably means that it has not been entered yet, either because it was finalised very recently, or it has not been finalised yet.

Is this why it’s so hush-hush?

: Silverwater Sales

: Surry Hills Sales

David Benson · Post by **David Benson** » 22 Jan 2023 19:44

Brian,

There have been two more sales in Brisbane Street I know about, the large liquor store, two doors up and the restaurant next door.

These were both before the Philas House sale.

It looks like the Valuer General is slow updating their web page.

David B.

Global Admin · Post by **Global Admin** » 22 Jan 2023 21:49

My hunch is NO sales show on Government website as complete ... unless they are COMPLETE!

Until PHILAS settle, the sale is not complete, and no Government Stamp Duty is paid. Who knows - the sale might fall over, vendor cannot finance, or PHILAS pulls out. Neither unheard of on property sales.

Why these dopes are now moving to TEMPORARY premises only they would know.

Invest the $7.3 million at 5% fixed, MORE than covers the penalty they will pay to stay put sitting on their $7.3 million cash. Waiting for the perfect distress sale pretty to emerge.

This bunch of clueless dolts clearly have not done their sums. Looks like Beavis and Butthead are in charge there. This hopeless lot should not be in control of buying copy paper.