[plug] Next InstallFest

[James Henstridge]

On Wed, 15 Oct 2025 at 09:35, Tim <tim at wants.coffee> wrote:
> I discovered PLUG this afternoon while looking around for for EndOf10
> events. Talking to Nick on IRC he mentioned there might be plans soon to
> host another. If so I'd be keen to help where I can to organize / assist
> on the day!

We're always looking for ideas for events that will be interesting to
our members and the wider community. The installfest was prompted by
suggestions from a few members (in particular, Jacek had suggested
it). We could definitely look at organising more if people find it
useful.

> How did the last event go? I wonder how people are faring after
> switching a machine to Linux. I imagine on-going support is an important
> aspect.

I think we had a decent turnout at the August event. There were a
bunch of people who are not regulars at our other events, so we were
definitely reaching a different crowd to our other events. Both people
interested in installing Linux, and people interested in helping out
or chatting. Some of that might have been due to the different
timeslot (weekend rather than after work on a week day).

The main thing I wish we could have handled better was Internet
access. The Collins Street Centre did not provide any access, and
cellular coverage was a bit spotty. We could help people install the
systems we'd prepared ISOs for, but had to ask people not to go wild
on other downloads.


> Let me know if there is anything I can do to help. I have an old
> Catalyst 2960-S sitting around if a 24-port PoE switch would be useful.

We'll always welcome more people willing to help out with events. I
imagine any future installfest would be held next year: it's a bit
close to organise and advertise one for November, and we were planning
to hold a barbeque for December.

If people want another event, we can try sooner rather than later.

James.