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Our guest speaker was Geoff Soma from WRAD who was ably assisted by Robert Coffey. Before coming to Warrnambool Geoff had16 years previous experience operating residential rehabs, Geoff spoke on two subjects, the first of which was an overview on the prevalence & effects of Drugs in our community. Many questions were asked during this part of the presentation, and most centered around ice usage and effects. Geoff spoke to some of those questions: - All methamphetamine forms quickly raise and sustain levels of the brain’s chemical messengers, particularly dopamine, which is responsible for memory, attention, purposeful behaviour and pleasurable feelings.
- Effects include euphoria, alertness, increased confidence and wakefulness.
- Higher doses can cause agitation, sweating, tremors, irritability, teeth grinding, anxiety or panic, paranoia and hallucinations.
- Although there is a perception that all methamphetamine users are violent, this is not the case.
- Rates of violent crime, although higher than the general population, tend to be restricted to methamphetamine-dependent, multiple drugs users with a history of violence.
Geoff also spoke on how the lookout program is to be structured, then updated those present on the current status of the program: - WCC deferred a decision on the lookout planning application.
- Due to being past the reasonable time allowed for in the Act WRAD decided to proceed to VCAT for a decision
- There are still some community members who object to the planned site
- WRAD believe that they have followed the required steps and information required – 2 years and 8 months and a lot of work and planning completed
- A hearing date is set
- WRAD is accredited as an alcohol and other drug center and a general practice and WRAD trained clinical staff will support the project
- Residential rehabilitation is considered to be the gold standard in treatment for alcohol and other drug problems and is evidence based
- WRAD have a Lookout steering committee and the WRAD committee overseeing the development of this project.
During members announcements I was proud to present a Paul Harris recognition of service certificate and pin to Sherril McKay, Sherril has been a strong supporter of many communities across Australia as she and Ian pursued their teaching and administration careers.  On Thursday night the club held an informative, and well attended, prospective membership information evening. Semi-formal and casual presentations/talks were made by several members and going by the conversations taking place during the evening our membership numbers could well improve in the coming weeks. Congratulations to the membership committee and those involved during the night. Also, on Thursday night some members attended the Rotary peace concert. Due to attending the membership evening I couldn’t attend until after the interval, but I am told that the all abilities Choir were outstanding. The Presidents of the Port Fairy and Warrnambool Rotary Clubs presented Peace Certificates to approximately 40 awardees after intermission. Many of those attending sang along with Tom Richardson, the well-deserved applauds continued as he was presented with a Paul Harris recognition certificate and pin. The musical evening was concluded with an energetic performance by the Borderers. On Thursday May 30th we will be holding a movie fundraiser event at the Capitol Cinema. Sue has booked Rocket Man – the life and times of Elton John. This is sure to be an entertaining movie and another excuse for us to get together, have some fun and raise funds for our wider community.  March: Water & Sanitation Month - Daybreak Care Program – Sunday 17th, 24th
- Meals on Wheels – Friday 15th,22nd, 29th,
- District Conference – Friday/Sunday 22-24th
April: Maternal & Child Health Month - Vice President Bob in the chair – April 10th - 20th
- Meals on Wheels – Friday 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th , 29th
- Daybreak Care Program – Sunday 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th
May: Youth Service Month - Meals on Wheels – Friday 3rd,10th, 17th, 24th , 31st
- Daybreak Care Program – Sunday 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
- Rocket Man – Movie Night – May 30th
As I am writing this newsletter, I have been informed of the passing of our friend and fellow Daybreaker, Julie Grec. I know that you will be as saddened by this news as I am. When details of Julie's funeral are available either me or Cheryl Bellman will pass this information on. At an appropriate time, we will certainly offer Geoff and Family any assistance they might need. Vale Julie There is a sunshine for each sunset, And for each night of sorrow, There is an ending as the new day dawns, On the horizon called tomorrow, Don’t cry because she has gone, But smile because she was here Steve |
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