With Sergeant Paul O'Brien scratched by order of the stewards, stand-in Sergeant Gerard Barker opened proceedings. Nooka reported 23 members and six guests. Apart from Swiss inbound Mary, we had Charlie Brown from Warrnambool College and Skye Gurry from Brauer College, together with their respective teachers/mentors Judy Lumsden and Ann Murphy.

President Tim began by reminding us that the next meeting is not at lunch on 13 November, but rather at the Capitol Cinema at 5:30 pm for the half hour film on the Indian surgical camp, followed by a convivial meal next door at the Hotel Warrnambool. It would be great to get a good turn up, and this represents an excellent opportunity for members to bring along friends or associates who might be potential Rotary members. It will provide an insight into some of the wonderful work taken by Rotary worldwide.

The meal was served, with our man in the kitchen skilfully showing that enchiladas are just one of the many ways Mexicans can disguise mince.

The Compass revealed the outcome of the sweeps he generously arranged for Melbourne Cup Day. Matt explained he utilised an App to arrange the sweeps. The app spits out the names and numbers. The app seemed to have no trouble spelling the name "NORTHEAST" next to well-placed horses. Despite the app, Rowan O'Brien won $72 for first place, Bruce Ludeman $30 for second place and Lyn Baulch $12 for third place. Bob McMillan drew the last placed horse, and to universal acclamation a decision was made not to pay out to Bob. The second sweep saw a third place win of $12 to Lou Officer, but the pace of the meeting was so quick that I didn't get a record of who came first and second? Suspect that in the great traditions of the Club the names may have ended in "east".....

Chairman Garry Askew introduced students Charlie Brown and Skye Gurry as participants in a public speaking exercise which our club arranged specifically for debaters/public speakers who have not yet won a competition. Both Skye and Charlie spoke very well, with the adjudicators awarding a win to Skye. Each of the students received a $50 book voucher, and the club also made a $50 donation to Skye's favourite charity being the RSPCA, and Charlie's charity being Smith Family. It was good to see the club encouraging these year 10 students to further their interest in the art of public speaking. We really appreciated them coming along and having a go.

Okay,....REMEMBER.. there is no lunch meeting this Wednesday 13 November. Instead please arrive promptly at the Capitol Cinema at 5:30 pm, bringing partners and friends.