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In 1983 the Society again supported several overseas campaigns against various animal abuses, not least being the protest against the injecting of chimpanzees and other non-human primates with fluids from AIDS sufferers. Cables on this issue were despatched to President Reagan, the U.S. Institute for Allergies and Infectious Diseases, the University of Texas and the American Embassy in Wellington. The Society circulated a petition on this subject to all members. In March 1984 the Society again supported the International Primate Protection League by sending a cable to the President of The Camerouns calling for total protection of that country's gorillas which are being cruelly captured and despatched in pitiable conditions to zoos and laboratories in a vicious slave-trade for personal profit.

It is impossible to assess the amount of free literature sought from the Society by students, schools, libraries and individuals. It appears that every school-child (and parent) in the country is involved in urgent projects on "vivisection". Few think to send a donation to cover cost of the paper or postage. To a point it is the Society's job to inform and educate, however this could be draining of finances. We have received several large donations this year and are always extremely grateful to the members who choose this most valuable method of supporting the Society...

The Annual Report cannot be written without acknowledgements and many people for a variety of reasons qualify for mention in this respect. However as it is impracticable to mention everyone who has helped the Society I limit acknowledgements to the handful of members dedicated to the animal cause who on a regular basis make maximum sacrifice for a very minimal return.

Firstly however I would like to thank our patron Hans Ruesch who is always willing, in spite of an overpowering schedule involving many organisations as well as his own CIVIS, to give me assistance and guidance. I am grateful also for the expertise of our auditor Kirk Barclay and Company and to Mr Gary Evans the Wellington solicitor who looks after the Society's interests. The dedication of the Society's principal coordinators has direct relevance to the success of our organisation. Natalie Taylor of Christchurch is well-known for her devoted perseverance. She is one of the givers of this world. Mauritia de Strickland of Bay of Islands selflessly employs her many talents to the furtherance of NZAVS. Yvonne Gray, Nelson inspires with her calm approach and Thelma Neill of Dunedin, in spite of the pressures from other areas in which she works for animals still manages to quietly and with great patience coordinate the Dunedin district.

In Wellington we are fortunate to have the inimitable expertise of Margaret Gibbins whose background manoeuvrings are often directly responsible for many of the Society's successes. John and Elizabeth Heffernan have consistently maintained ledgers, records and members' files. Pam Manson has managed the duty list, miraculously producing a steady stream of casual helpers on Saturdays and mid-week. Whilst these volunteers who are prepared to turn to on any job are indispensable to the Society there are nonetheless several areas in which it is desirable that members undertake individual initiatives and deeper commitment.

During the Christmas period head office facilities were re-arranged and enlarged allowing for expansion and growth. It is extremely encouraging to see the same members renewing subscriptions year after year and the Society looks to the future with confidence.

Bette Overell
31 March 1984