A message from Rotary South Pacific chair:
“In the face of acts of terror and violence, we must continue committing to peace through dialogue and service. There is no place in our communities, Australia or elsewhere, for violence, fear, or division. In times like these, it is more important than ever that we stand united, support one another, and reaffirm our shared humanity and purpose. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all who have been impacted. We encourage everyone to support one another and uphold the values that unite us.
Yours in Rotary,
Neville Parsons
Interim Chair,
Regional Council”
Condolences to Anne Donaldson on the passing of her uncle.
Highlights this year:- the Early Loss Memorial Tree, Book sales, 40ft container, Garden Expo, Community Cupboards, Camp Quality upgrade, National Science & Engineering Challenge, Defying the Drift, support for the Wish Collective, PNG project, tree planting at Bromfield Street, RYLA, RYDA, Polio Plus and the Foundation.
Next year we will be getting more hands on with the Wish Collective & there’s an opportunity to be active in Relay for Life.
This year major Awards were given to Tony Austin, Sarah Wallace, Janet Blackley, and Ken Sharpe for their distinguished service and contribution to Rotary and our community.
The Board met last week. A new model updated Constitution is to be circulated and voted on in January, A request to pay for signage on Ron Rauerte’s toy train, the 'Saving Uncle Ron's Train Project was approved. A motion to bring forward the $6,000 allocated for Wish Collective for the 26/27 year to this year was passed, this will enable many more care kits to be produced this year.
Committee positions: Svet Lineham offered to be President elect on a shared basis. This is a great opportunity for a member to step up and work with a very competent and experienced Svet. Glenn Brotchie has volunteered to take on the position of Vice-President elect. Anne Adams is relinquishing role as Champion of the Garden Show. This is also a great opportunity for a member to develop their leadership and project management skills.
Our exchange student Rex gave the meeting the audio/ visual presentation he is going to present to Rotary Clubs in Denmark. Rex is an articulate and confident young man and will represent Rotary and Australia magnificently. We wish you well Rex.
Congratulations to Brooke, she has raised nearly $2,000 for a charity that makes wigs for children with cancer. Brooke has offered her own hair to the firm that makes the wigs. Four years of hair growth has enabled Brooke to donate around 165g of her hair, well done Brooke 
-Thanks to President Peter for committing to dyeing his hair for reaching the $2000 mark!
Next year we will be getting more hands on with the Wish Collective & there’s an opportunity to be active in Relay for Life. Possible future projects: An Art or Photographic Show and a Golf Event.
I thank members for their support and wish you all a merry Xmas and a happy New Year.
