There was so much BUZZ in the room, that Sgt. Russ struggled to call the large meeting to Order.
Kevin O`Brien unexpectedly proposed the evening`s toast—“To the organisers of the Commonwealth Games”
There was side talk of prominent Club members “Dancing at The Opening — also wearing lycra!
Visitors —Jo Gorman who spoke of the coming District Conference at Sea World on 9th. to 11th. March. Club groups can sit together. [There is a copy of the program below. ]
Eric Stevens of Burleigh Club
Nasrin and Phillip Gould
Luca—an exchange Student from Germany.
Chris Owen who has visited before and a prospective Club Member.
Club Member, Nasser was to speak to the Club on his hobby—Bee keeping.
Hon. Members attending—Ian C. Ewe S. and Paul T.
Sgt. Russ saw that the treasurer's needs for cash flow were satisfied.
Neil J took home the prized wine.
It was interesting to see Uwe and exchange student Luca, talking over Luca`s Australian experiences.
President Alain introduced our Club Member Nasser Kaviani for his Power Point illustrated interesting talk on Bees.
Nasser, commenced his interests at an early age-- beginning with wasps—He changed to Bees. [Frequent wasp stings were much worse than bee stings!]
While living in New Zealand he expanded his interests in bees.
Bees are vital for the pollination of plant species—and the food train that humans rely on.
Australia and New Zealand are the best areas for honey production— N.Z. Manuka Honey is well known for its healing properties.
Reduced honey sold in shops unfortunately contains 80% sugar.
There are some diseases that affect the hives—but these are well managed.
The bees communicate between them selves, as to where there is available pollen.
The bees dance in the hive. They move clock-wise and anti-clockwise—leaving the circle at the angle relating to the Sun, in the direction of the pollen.
The workings of the hive were shown to be fascinating— “The Workers”—do all of the Work!; “The Drones”—do nothing!; “The Queen Bee”— There is only one in each hive—she Is often marked so that her presence in the hive can be readily recognised by the apiarist.
The hive will not work, without a queen bee. She has attendants to care for her. However when challenged she will fight to her death. She exudes a perfume, indicating the well being of the hive. No perfume indicates disorder within the hive. She lays between 1,500 and 2,000 eggs per day.
The temperature of the hive is carefully managed to 36*—rows of bees create a draught at the hive`s entrance, using their wings.
Taking honey from the hive has always been meet with aggressive defence by the bees.
Nasser shower pictures of a recent invention—a flow model hive —it is designed to drain honey from the hive, without disturbing the bees.
The honey drains to the base of the hive, when the honey-comb columns are re-positioned slightly. This then dis lodges the liquid contained in the honey comb. The honey drains down and it is then collected in a container outside the hive. A great Australian invention.
Interest in the topic was demonstrated by the number of questions that Nasser responded to.
President Alain thanked Nasser for his presentation, recognised the presence of the visitors and closed another interesting, well attended Broadbeach Rotary Club meeting.
Details of the District Conference, as mentioned by Jo in her talk.
9th-11th March (Shuttle bus for parking from Sea World Theme Park to Sea World Conference centre)
Packed with entertainment - singing, dancing and comedy
Rotary VIPS and projects throughout
Friday night Dinner ($55) , Rotary Moments, Welcome to Country and The Laughter Doctor and entertainment- why not book a table with your club mates
Saturday- Youth Day
International keynote speakers including Allan Pease, Bruce Sullivan and Laurie Lawrence.
Youth presentations. Buffet lunch ($35)
Saturday Evening- Outback Spectacular- new show ($80). Transport available at $10 return from Sea World Resort
Sunday
Business session
Dolphin spectacular- gold coin donation
Commonwealth Day - Key note speakers include Peter Beattie and Jack Wilson ending with a Sparkle with Julie Cross.
Sunday Lunch ($20) Paella in the Park - (Muriel Henchman Park) to end on something Spanish.
Registrations close 28th February and remember, registration is FREE.
