DIRECTOR'S REPORTS
Membership
John Stuckey reported that the Club has gained four new members this year, with another two in the pipeline. He mentioned that 90% attendance is not a requirement.
Youth
Rachel Furnell outlined the current projects of the Committee which included the Warrnambool College Fear Factor fund raiser; the Youth Council which gave a presentation to the Young Achievers awards; the Exchange Students both inbound and outbound; there are two nominees for Rylah; and Rotoract is active.
International
Svet Lineham reported on Rotary Against Malaria - for each guest speaker we put aside $10, so $500 is sent to a village in Papua New Guinea where 1.2 million people are struck down by malaria each year. The aim is to halve the morbidity and mortality total over the next 5 years. Interplast - each week a collection goes to this organisation which was established by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, with Rotarians from Australia and New Zealand. As well as operating to repair bodies and rebuild lives, they provide medical training and mentoring for in-country medical personnel to build up local health services. A film night was held to support the Alternative to Schoolies", a program where students go to the Philippines to refurbish a school instead of Queensland or Bali for schoolies festivities.
Mark Hardy gave a moving account of his time in Africa dealing with the ebola epidemic.
Sariri Project
Tony Austin has returned from his trip to Sariri in Papua New Guinea where the aim was to provide the village with a sustainable agriculture program, i.e. growing a crop to provide employment and sell produce to generate income. Tony has organised fund raising events and approached Wannon Water to part sponsor a big pump by paying $15,000. India Rotary will pay the freight to transport the pumps. A fund raiser was held at Graeme Ross' place. Members were thanked for their support, including Louise and Julie for collecting items to be sent. Any donations of clothes would be welcomed.
Community Service
Robert Cuzens reported on the restoration of Jack Murray's grave which it is hoped will be completed by 8 May. New seats have been provided at Granny's Grave. A BBQ will be held at Bunnings in May and the Port Fairy Folk Festival is coming up. The Mentoring for Learner Drivers is ongoing, although the car needs replacing. The testing of car lights will be around Easter time.
Social
Judy Ross reported on events held and that the gardens picnic is on Australia Day. 23 February is Rotary's anniversary and there will be a picnic at the gardens with the other Rotary clubs. A trip to Coonawarra is planned in the future.
Public Relations
Terry O'Neill reported that both 3YB and the Standard have provided the Club with some publicity, plus we are on the web and facebook. A marquee has been purchased and will be used as required.