Graeme Isaacson was at the door, Charles Thomasson was Chairman and, in absence of both Sergeant and Deputy, Paul Seymour acted as Sergeant.
We had apologies from Gerald East, Col Laurenson, Ian Mayberry, Tania Laird, Simon Brook, Mario Fairlie and Jim Blackburn.
President Andy Bell welcomed all members and our Guest Speaker Anna Vlamis from Love Bites (see separate report). Following advice that written complaints had been received about our Bikini Girl banner (and club logo, established since charter 30 years ago), Andy opened up a discussion about this. Various members contributed, including DG Darrell Brown, who clearly stated his concern that, in today's time, the banner is sexist and cannot be presented in Asian or Muslim countries. The decision was reached that a closed survey be undertaken via Survey Monkey, where members can vote as well as state their views and/or alternatives.
President Elect Jo Gorman, freshly back from her President Elect Training Seminar, outlined various aspects in relation to her upcoming Rotary Year. Of importance:
- Blue Card: since we do work with Youth, it is essential that all members carry a Volunteers Blue Card
- Under the leadership of incoming Membership Chair Charles Thomasson, membership will have major emphasis
- Whilst there will be two District Assemblies held, our club's leadership team should all go to the 'Northern' event on 20/05/2018 in Boonah
- Lots of other items, but Jo will outline these in a more comprehensive way at a later date.
Angus Miller, in charge of volunteers at the upcoming District Conference, circulated a sign-on sheet. Geoff Croad requires a couple of volunteers for RYDA on Wednesday 14/03/2018 (you will still have time to come to the meeting beforehand). Contact Geoff directly.
Des La Rance announced that two donations had been received for the Wheelchair Project: $50.00 by mail, and a whopping $15,000! (The donor, however, wishes to remain anonymous). Treasurer Mitch Brown reminded all that membership dues for the second half year are payable now.
District Youth Exchange chief Chris Thurtell brought our two Exchange Students Gigi and Benedetta along to our meeting. His request to get the girls to say a few words, however, seems to have taken the ladies by surprise; their speeches were of remarkable brevity...