The first thing everyone noticed upon their arrival at The Hub was the absence of our usual caterer Chris. As President Andrew later explained there was a communication breakdown over the booking. Not to be daunted, Andrew with a little help from others quickly had a plan B developed and although we were a little later eating than normal, the pizzas were excellent and quickly disappeared.
While we waited, fellowship was enjoyed and some planning for Saturdays 50th Anniversary Celebration was completed.
The delay also enabled Secretary Neil Baldwin to make it in time to eat - his vehicle overheated (had a cracked radiator on the way and he had to return home and change vehicles.
In welcoming everyone, Andrew apologised for the delay in proceedings and thanked those that had helped with Hub preparations that morning and made special mention of the magnificent morning tea provided by Roslyn Tomlinson.
President Andrew introduced Barbara Burnheim, a former rotarian and Past President of Hunters Hill Club in Sydney. Barbara gave us a short insight into her background and Rotary experience.
Andrew also reported on progress in gathering presents for the Radio Lollipop Christmas toy project to provide gifts for all children in Gold Coast University and Pindara Hospitals during the Christmas week. Collection of toys and cash donations are going very well.
Bruce gave us an outline of arrangements for our Sister Club visitors here for our 50th Anniversary and passed on thanks to all who have volunteered to assist. An excellent few days is assured.
Acting Sergeant Neil Baldwin provided some trivia related to this day - 22 November - and some detail regarding his experience over the past month on the tag along tour in Victoria/NSW including the significant rainfall and flooding experienced.
Neil decided not to apply any fines on this occasion.
The raffle was drawn and the first two numbers out were not claimed even though they were within the range of tickets issued. Draws three and four were claimed by Haidee and Bruce who happily collected their bottle of wine.
Turns out that the initial two tickets were in the purse of Denise Jordan - she and Bob had left before the meal as Bob is unable to eat pizza.
There is a whisper that Bob will protest but the treasurer advises he does not have a leg to stand on as he had refunded their dinner fees in full.
In closing the meeting at 8.05pm President Andrew advised members of the change in venue for the Christmas Party to Benowa Highland Court Chinese Restaurant and that our first meeting in 2023 will be a bowls night on 10 January.
