This week, the spotlight was firmly on youth—their achievements, potential, and the inspiring resilience we witness through our Rotary activities.
On Tuesday, I attended the Flexi School Graduation and Awards Ceremony - a terrific celebration of young people determined to forge their own path, often while overcoming real challenges. I was honoured to present the Toowoomba East Rotary Award to Jamilia Saad, who truly embodies resilience, determination, and commitment. In my remarks, I noted that character isn’t defined by easy wins, but by the grit we show when things get tough.
Jamilia’s journey - turning adversity into achievement - sets a fine example for us all.
It was also great to see a familiar face among the awardees. Our Windeward Bound Youth Leadership graduate, Mikayla, continues to shine; not just as a leader but as a scholar. She received a bursary and three academic awards, including Overall Year 11 Highest Academic Achiever. Her success shows how opportunity and encouragement can help young people flourish. Congratulations, Mikayla - the club is proud of you.
We’re equally proud of Ron B, who was warmly thanked by Flexi School’s Head of Campus, Linda Bourke, for his ongoing contribution and the many ways his skills keep the school running smoothly. You’re flying the Toowoomba East flag high, mate - well done!
Closer to home, Thursday’s club meeting was uplifted by a visit from the outgoing and incoming St Saviour’s College Interact committees. Hearing their reflections and plans ahead reinforced the value of Interact as a pathway to understanding service, appreciating others’ sacrifices, and learning early what it means to create change.
We can be proud of the role our club plays in recognising and supporting these young people; whether by offering opportunities, encouragement, or simply believing in their potential. This week’s successes show what happens when we invest our time and energy in youth.
Finally, a word of thanks to Tony J, who has recently shouldered a mountain of work for the club. Your efforts don’t go unnoticed, Tony. You set an example for us all.
A fee will apply to any member late with an apology regardless of whether the number attending on the meeting day of the meeting is over, under or equal to what the Club Secretary submitted to the Downs Club. This fee will only apply to meetings at the Downs Club or any other club meeting where attendance numbers have to be stipulated prior to the meeting.
A Club member will be charged a meal fee of $20 if they
fail to submit any apology before 11am on Tuesday for the meeting the following Thursday (48 hrs later)
need to submit a late apology due to changed circumstance.
Fail to show up after indicating they would be present.
The members owing a fee of $20 will notified by the Club Secretary and Club Treasurer via an emailed
Late apology fee notice.
The fee can be paid by direct credit into the RCTE Club account or by adding $20 to the $35 meal fee at the next club meeting
Apologies 16.10.2025 Wayne Barnett, Dave Birrell, Adrian Bonica, Rod Brilliant, Andy Burke, Alex Burrell, Peter Burrows, Jim Charlton, Bob Cheesman, Col Davidson, Shane Fisher, Dave Groves, Peter Hardwick, Ian Humphrey, Andrew Kratzmann, Craig Mathieson, Peter McLoughlin, Peter Nalder, Toby Sandell, Allan Schefe, Doc Smith, Matt Wentzel, Mark Winter
Apologies 23.10.2025 Cameron Ashmore, Wayne Barnett, Dave Birrell, Rod Brilliant, Pete Burrows, Jim Charlton, Bob Cheesman, Shane Fisher, Dave Groves, Andrew Kratzmann, John Liley, Craig Mathieson, Peter McLoughlin, Toby Sandell, Doc Smith, Mark Winter
