About CAOAC
What is CAOAC? We are often asked this
question. CAOAC stands for The Canadian Association of Aquarium
Clubs. We are a non-profit corporation and are composed of member
aquarium, reptile & amphibian, pond & water garden, and similar
clubs or societies from across Canada and the Northeast United
States.
CAOAC was founded in 1959 (incorporated in 1963) to allow the clubs
to work together for their common good and the good of the hobby.
Legislative issues, promotion of events, a judging system, national
awards, assistance for new clubs, & liability insurance are just a
few of the things on which clubs can work and benefit together.
Recently, a Fish Rescue Program has begun. This has been developed
with outside partners who also have an interest in our hobby and
environmental issues.
Member Benefits
National awards program to honour those in member clubs who have
achieved success in breeding, plant propagation, or other endeavours
related to the hobby.
National judging program to train and certify judges as well as set
standards that all can use to judge their shows.
Third-party liability insurance program to protect club members in
case of an unfortunate accident at one of their functions.
National forum to express views and opinions.
National voice to deal with legislation which may impact negatively
on our hobby and to put forward constructive ideas to politicians
and bureaucrats.
A chance to become involved with people who share similar interests
with yourselves.
If you are interested in joining CAOAC as a club or as a private
(non-voting) member, please contact our Membership Chair, Noel
Wright by e-mail.
In person meetings are held dmonthly (except July & August) in Waterdown,
Ontario (unless otherwise posted) at the Optimist Hall where clubs which are within driving distance send their
representative (s) to discuss issues of the day as well as the
future. Online meetings are held when we are not meeting at the
hall via Skype. See our calendar
for details.
These are not like regular aquarium club meetings with speakers
and programs but are business meetings with an executive and board
of directors along with the club reps. Proxy votes received via post
or email are also accepted. All clubs are sent the minutes of each
meeting via email and also receive our monthly Newsletter. Most
issues of consequence are tabled for 60 days (or 2 meetings) so the
clubs will have time to discuss them at their own executive meetings
and respond before the vote is taken.
If you have any question please contact our Corresponding Secretary,
Ann-Marie Towell 223-1717 60 Street SE Calgary, AB T2A 7Y7 (403)
244-7575 or by e-mail.