This group was established in 1993 to improve information flow between users of Geographic Information Systems on the North Coast of NSW, Australia - to promote coordination, management and use of spatial data sets being captured in the area. The group covers the area from Grafton, north to the Queensland border (and beyond), west to the tablelands, encompassing several local government areas. NCSIG is open to any existing or prospective users of GIS's, GPS's and spatial data in this area. The group comprises representatives from NSW Government agencies, Local Government and related authorities, Catchment Management Authorities, community groups, universities, private consultants and individuals. Meetings, which rotate around the region, are held every six months (usually the Wednesday of the second week of May and November). Invited speakers have addressed many areas of interest such as assets capture with GPS, satellite imagery and its development, digital photogrammetry and airborne GPS.
Early in its existence the group developed a pro-forma for use with digital data. This was intended to ensure that spatial information is more easily and correctly understood and used especially if passed on to third party users. The pro-forma was endorsed by the Australian Surveying and Land Information Group (AUSLIG). NCSIG is strongly supportive of comprehensive use of metadata. Our committee is not elected and runs on interest and effort! On this basis, please understand that we will do whatever we can to promote spatial data use and communication, but sometimes it takes a little time!