Meeting opened at 6.30 p.m. by Russ who called on Bill Waller who toasted “volunteer workers of the world”. This was very well received
Russ then introduced President Alain who welcomed our guests Gai Cowan, Robert Likeman and honorary members Uwe and Ian
Alain also welcomed Nancy (from leave) & Bill Waller (who is undergoing medical treatment ). He also thanked Harold for organising the previous weeks meeting at the Coast Guard as well as those who attended District Assembly.
Director’s Reports
Administration Director Bob Jordan advised the club that following a meeting of the sizzlers it has reluctantly been agreed to reduce our input at the Bunnings Sizzle to the first three Fridays of each Monday except when the month has 5 Fridays.Bob and Neil will try and meet with Bunnings Friday to discuss. Malcolm Daviess was thanked for his efforts during the past 2 years.
John Monks –Scooter Project Co-0rdinator advised Hope Island club has agreed to join the Scooter Programme and will initially take 6 scooters.It is also rumoured that our programme will in the not too distant future become a District Initiative but that is yet to be confirmed.
Sergeants Session run by Generalissimo Russ—usual plundering and pillaging of everyone’s pockets, luckily he goes overseas in a couple of weeks. Bunyips were John Monks and Grahame Werrell.
Raffle Winner --Russ
Heads and Tails John Monks
Guest Speaker Dr Robert Likeman who was introduced by Graham Sivyer.---Robert emigrated to Australia in 1973 and joined the ARMY IN 1986 serving overseas in East Timor and Rwanda. He is the author of 6 books
Robert addressed us on “THE MONKEY ON MY BACK” which translates to P.T.S.D. (POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER). And his talk was centred primarily on some of the factors which contribute to the problem.
THE effects of operational service stay with every soldier for the rest of his life like a monkey sitting on his shoulder
Stress, as it is known by one of it’s names was first recognised during the American Civil War in the 1860’s and is now responsible for more deaths by suicide than actually being killed serving overseas in the ARMY.Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is a “state of mind in which the memory of past traumatic events interferes with normal functioning and the enjoyment of life” Fortunately,as with other kinds of illness most people recover and over half return to duty with the army.
There are 3 main reasons for P.T.S.D. ,the first is CULTURE SHOCK, THE SECOND IS Horrific Sights and the third is FEAR.
The military is very aware of the effects of P.T.S.D. and has instituted extensive plans to assist those suffering.The capacity exists for far earlier recognition than previously .
The discussion finished with some questions from the floor to Robert and President Alain then closed the meeting.
Sergeant Russ President Alain
Bill Waller toasts volunteers of the World Bob Jordan outlines sizzle changes
Sergeant Russ wins the Raffle???? John wins Heads & Tails
Graham introducing guest speaker Guest Speaker Dr Robert Likeman
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