Acting President, Jason van Straalen, opened the meeting at 6.30 pm.
Welcome to our guest speaker, John Atkins AO, and Nan Walker visiting from Perth Rotary.
John Thornton led the meeting in singing the National Anthem and gave everyone 9 out of 11 for their efforts.
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
A new memorial was unveiled in Kings Park last month. What is it commemorating and what is the significant anniversary?
Answer: The Perth Korean War Memorial was unveiled on 27 July 2023 to coincide with the 70th Anniversary of the Armistice.
The winning card was the 10 of Clubs which was held by Bob Davis and who got the answer correct.
FAMILY AND FRIENDS:
There was no news of family or friends.
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES:
Susan Watson announced this week’s birthdays which included:
Members’ birthdays:
John Thornton, 22 August, celebrating 88 years.
Nigel Johnson, 26 August, celebrating 87 years.
Partners’ Birthdays:
June Wilkie, 22 August.
Shelley McGrath, 25 August.
CLUB AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Club Services (Hugh Stowell)
Announced two event dates. Polio Plus Dinner working with Perth Rotary on Thursday, 24 October, and “Guess Who’s Coming Dinner?” on Saturday, 28 October.
Community Service (Anthony McGrath)
Will be sending a note around looking for volunteers for the second Food Bank volunteer day, and if you have already put your name down, please reconfirm with Anthony.
Environment Services (John Bolto)
Reminder to book for the Annual Business Lunch on Friday, 20 October, which is only about 10 weeks away. Also, bins will shortly be at Dalkeith Primary School for the “Cans for Christmas” drive for members who prefer to drop off their donations there.
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Other Announcements
Ann Bray drew attention to the brochures on the tables advertising the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra’s Young Artists Concert on Sunday, 17 September, at 3.00 pm featuring Sara Duhig (Conductor) and Ellie Malonzo (violin and composer). Tickets are $27.00 for adults, and concession is $22.00.
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The Sergeant, Trevor Gorey, was assisted by Jonas Edner in collecting the money and issued a number of fines, including:
The Wine Table, led by Bob Davis.
The two birthday boys, John Thornton and Nigel Johnson.
Michael Bisset for getting his photo in the Post newspaper.
All West Coast Eagles supporters for the miracle of them winning a match.
John Hopkins for bringing his own wine but only sharing it with a select group of friends.
Nigel Johnson for appearing on television.
GUEST SPEAKER
John Atkins AO, Life as an Agent General – introduced by Michael Bisset
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John Atkins AO gave a fascinating talk about his time as Agent General for WA based in London and described it as the best gig outside government in government. WA has had an Agent General for nearly 125 years, and the headquarters is in Savoy House with the beautiful Savoy Chapel behind it, where WA Day is celebrated each year. ANZAC Day is also a very big day on the calendar. London is still the world's financial capital; therefore, WA’s presence there is essential, and eight staff are there with a primary focus on facilitating trade.
During John’s time, Australian Navy contracts were essential, and he spent much of his time speaking with countries about awarding contracts to WA.
There is also a focus on WA’s wine industry, universities, art, culture, and mining, especially rare earth minerals. One funny recollection was that the number plates on the Agent General’s car, “WA 1” had nothing to do with WA. They had belonged to the famous performing artist Winifred Atwell and were purchased by a former Agent General.
After a few questions, the Acting President thanked John Atkins on behalf of everyone and presented him with a rotary fruit cake.
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REMINDER OF NEXT ROSTER:
Monday 28 August 2023
Bruce Fiegert Welcoming members and guests.
Ann Bray Table duty.
Jonas Edner Registrar 1
Lindsay Dry Registrar 2.
Tony Chien Introduction of guest speaker.
Jock Laurie Pass the microphone.
REMINDER OF COMING EVENTS:
- 28 August Mathilda Hontoir, Rotary Exchange Student.
- 4 September Jerry Pilcher, Australian Rotary Health.
- 11 September Alison Sayer, Homeless Healthcare.
THANKS:
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Thank you to the Staff of the Nedlands Golf Club.
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RECOGNISE OUR VERY GENEROUS SPONSORS:
- Lizzi Bee - supplier of flowers
- Dry Kirkness Chartered Accountants (Butler Settineri) – Hon Club Auditors
- Accura Accounting & Advisory Services for providing Xero Accounting software and
Sharesight Portfolio reporting software to the Charitable Trust.
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MEETING CLOSE:
Recognise RI President Gordon McInally's Presidential theme for the year: Create Hope in the World.
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