At our meeting on the last day of winter for 2016, we only had 22 diners, including Ross and Gwenda Hill and our speaker Graig Geddes.
Mike led the meeting, keeping notices and formalities to a minimum.
Steve sadly reported that Bob Bettiston had died. Bob was a valued member of our club for several years. Our sincere condolences to Steve and Linda (Bob's daughter).
ANNUAL SPEECH COMPETiTION for students of Taieri High
We will be welcoming three students and their support crews for the evening.
And the Club is encouraged to bring partners to enjoy the evening,.
After an incredible 44 years of service, we sadly farewelled Ross with Austen presenting a Certificate of Appreciation, and a large card signed by all club members It was great that Gwenda was there to see our gratitude for his years of service. YOU WILL BE MISSED. THANK YOU ROSS.
Our speaker for the evening was Assistant District Commander Craig Geddes from Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
He started as a volunteers fireman in Ashburton 33 years ago, and then became a paid fireman 30 years ago, and is now one of six Assistant District Commanders in Otago, based in Dunedin.
He explained what the organisation does, and explained the expanding roles that FENZ seems to be called upon. Main function is still to prevent fires, and they also attend hazardous substance spills, motor vehicle accidents, rescues. And importantly medical emegency situations where they can often respond to a person, say with a heart attack, maybe quicker than an ambulance. Craig expanded on the scenarios, and explained how vitally important the volunteers crews are throughout the country. Nearly 8000 callouts a year in Otago.
So our Firemen are a crucial part of our society. Thank you to Craig for an excellent presentation.
On Saturday August 22nd Merv, Wayne, John, Mike and Fraser were all busy trying to finish the surrounds of the bus shelter. A great job well done. Photos depict the happy chappies at work. Please note how happy Fraser appears to be fondling and caressing a road cone---obviously happy memories of when he was at FH. John reported this week that one more session at his workshop, and on site, would probably get the job finished. Great work guys!!!
And did you notice someone (????) was busy working on the clock and digital display on Wednesday---hopefully to improve it.
Once again this year, members will have the opportunity to support our Lily Bulb fundraising project. Bulbs will be available from August, with more information to follow.
At the last meeting the club trialled a new initiative to reduce food waste by offering members the opportunity to box up leftover food from the meal to take home. Once everyone had finished eating, boxed meals were made available, and members were invited to fill a container for $10 per box. The containers are a generous size, allowing a good amount of food to be packed in, making it well worth it for those who would enjoy the leftovers later. The system was self-service, giving members the freedom to choose what they would like, while also helping ensure that less food goes to waste.
Merv Clearwater has taken over the role of Attendance and the Duty Roster from Brian Shanks.
If you are unable to attend a meeting it is your responsibility to let me know well in advance of the day of the meeting if you are unable to attend. If you DONT we will be charged for the meal from Paul the caterer and you will be liable.
Don't just TELL me as I am very forgetful; Text me on 0274 339689 or email me at merv@mcinsure.co.nz
As for Duties they will be advised in the bulletin so if you aren't able to attend it is up to you to find someone to take your place.
Mosgiel Bus Shelter Upgrade
