>> There are not many reasons why we cannot have a 'Team' elected to positions based on merit every 12 months. When people nominate for positions they can put up their credentials, why they want the position and what they can do for the Ubuntu-au Loco. Isn't this pretty much standard! I mean Ubuntu is not a four person project, it is not a small flash in a pan thing that someone has whipped out of their backyard. Personally, I think that we need a Ubuntu Confrence in Australia. This confrence should be conducted on a yearly/bi-yearly basis (perhaps inpart online/through a web hookup), we talk all things Ubuntu and we elect our leaders there accepting online votes from anyone not there. There could be simultanious confrences, but the point is this: Ubuntu is not a four person Distribution. Ubuntu is open source, it is free to all and it's governance is (nay should be) transperant. Microsoft is a commercial product, it's governance is closed. While I can have input into the product, I have no vote nor control on how it is designed. Once a board is elected that board can appoint people to perform tasks, take roles, assign goals, do as it feels. I know that you will see members drop off from the board, but the board can replace them as they see fit. The board would be free from the election for most if not all of the year, but it will be heald to public account! Why do people fear a fair election? Sincerely Colin McDermott