Who else is fed up with COVID restrictions? I certainly am. We were only able to have a maximum of 39 members at this week's meeting (due to the 4m2/person rule), and wasn't it great to meet face-to-face again, however there were many more members who would have liked to attend. This accounted for a record number attending via Zoom.As this was a joint meeting with the Rotary Club of Canterbury, it was my privilege to welcome President Tony Laycock and 7 of his members - and other RC Canterbury members attended via Zoom. The meeting was ably chaired by Canterbury Rotarian Rob Anderson, son of our past Member Peter Anderson.
And didn't we all enjoy the amazing presentation by Victor Perton! I hope those on Zoom were able to hear and see Victor and he moved around the stage and the room. From his Laughter Session, to asking each attendee in turn ""What makes you Optimistic", this was truly a presentation like no other. I was amazed to hear the research into the many benefits of optimism: as Victor says on his website www.centreforoptimism.com "If optimistic, you will feel healthier. An optimistic spirit can bring significant benefits, including happiness, joy, active longevity, better health including lower risks of cardiovascular disease, better sleep, greater resilience, stronger relationships and increased self-mastery." I was personally inspired by Victor's infectious optimism and enthusiasm, and I will make sure my answer when asked how I am is something more optimistic than "not bad"! I am sure everyone left the meeting with a smile on their face.
The next meeting is the last of the Rotary Year, and it's an important one: Geoff Heath will speak on the 2021 Camberwell Online Gallery, how it will work, and most importantly, how we all can help to make it a financial success. The joint Board Meeting that was held after last meeting discussed the financial position of the club going forward into the 2021-2022 year, and needless to say, without two consecutive physical Art Shows, there is significant need for the Camberwell Online Gallery to maximise income and minimise costs - and we can all help. Come and hear Geoff tell us how.
At the time of writing, the extra 25 spaces at the Changeover Dinner have sold out, so commiserations to those who still missed out. Unfortunately we are limited by the post-lockdown rules set the the Victorian Government.
A reminder that the Grand Opening of our Centenary Project the Yarra Bank Playground is on 8 August - please put the date in your diary and invite your family and friends, especially those with young children.
So that's it from me (with one more to go!). Let's hope the COVID restrictions are lifted soon, and have a good week in Rotary.
