On behalf of the H.A.L.C.P. (" Fish Ark Project ") I would like to thank a small band of dedicated British Livebearer Aquarists for holding a Livebearer Convention on the 3^rd/4^th Nov 2001 at the Midland hotel Derby.

Namely,

            Chris Cheswright                             Peter Moore                      David McAlister

It was David, who as well as doing much of the organizing for the event, also very kindly gave the first lecture on Saturday about one of his collecting trips to Costa Rica.

This was followed by a Video/Lecture on the " Fish Ark " Project from concept to the

Present day given by Ivan Dibble.

Then there was a hilarious and light-hearted look at a Mexican collection trip by Ian Sinclair.

And finally Peter Moore presented a Video on his journeys in Panama.

There were in fact some 30 people who stayed on that Saturday night for a very good meal and a good night was had by all.

On Sunday our good friend Chris Cheswright kicked things of with a lecture on the do’s and don’ts of building a fish house. Throughout these days there was a running raffle with prize’s following each lecture as well as a large Tombola on the Sunday with a prize given with every ticket.

For this we would like to take this opportunity of thanking our sponsors Aquarian, Water Life, Seven Seas, Interpet, Rose Wood, Aquarium Pharmaceuticals,

& The Kent Group of the B.K.A.

It was then down to the main business of the day namely the Auction and the fish show. By the time that this had started our numbers had grown to over 60 and biding at the auction was very brisk. 

At the halfway stage the show winners were announced the best in show being taken by Peter more (pictured centre back above) with the very nice pair of Brachyrhaphis terrabensis pictured below.

The Auction then continued, to conclude a very successful weekend. Not only financially (as this event alone raised £172 after paying all expenses) But more particularly as all who attended seem to go home happy and well satisfied with the event.

For my part I would once again like to thank all who took part in any way, for either helping or simply attending. All your efforts where greatly appreciated.

Note It is hoped to run this event again next year. So watch your calender for November 2002  Hope to see you all then !!!