Wollundry Rotary Club supported the Active Farmers Run For Resilience day at Mangoplah by providing tents and tables. There were around 300 runners in this fun event for the rural community.
The day is designed to bring farming families together. Isolation is a challenge for rural communities and the contact through sport and fun activities is a great antidote for feelings of loneliness.
Thanks to John and Judy Ferguson for organising the tents and supporting the farming communities.
HELP Cambodia recently completed its annual 2 week immersion tour in Cambodia, visiting The DCC School it built in Phnom Penh in 2016, and volunteering with other Australian run charities it supports. The tour group was led by HELP Cambodia committee member and Wollundry Rotarian Darren Wallace and consisted of HELP Cambodia supporters and community members including RC Sunrise Wagga rotarians.
The tour takes in much of Cambodia's history and culture including experiencing daily life in remote villages.
The DCC School is a RAWCS project sponsored by Wollundry RC. HELP Cambodia runs a sponsorship program for the 120 students at DCC to provide funding to run the school. For more information contact help@helpcambodia.com.au
Sunrise Rotary donated funds for a house build by Siem Reap based charity Heartprint. The tour group attended the handover of the new house to a struggling, but very appreciative local family.
Wagga based charity HELP Cambodia and Wagga Rotarians making a difference to lives in Cambodia
David Byfield came to the podium and spoke about attending a special event on Monday evening December 9th at the Property of Adrian Lindner.
As President of Coolamon Rotary, Adrian accepted a cheque for $10,000, on behalf of his Rotary Club and all their members for all their involvement in supporting the Gears and Beers.
Adrian and his property have a much more direct involvement in the Gears and Beers. It is through his land of wheat and canola crops that the riders cycle each year. The banner for Wollundry's internet home page is of a rider cycling through Adrian's canola crop.
Adrian's family have farmed their land for 6 generations. The homestead is over 100 years old. The property name is " Lindoris", which is a combination of Lindner and Doris. The first living child born on the property was named "Doris". The road at the front of the property is Lindne's Lane. For the cyclists, the homestead and out buildings are part of the charm of experiencing close up a beautiful and truly historic Australian property.
It was a clear beautiful country evening and someone pointed out the rare occurance of Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn and Earth all alligned in a straight line. The International Space Station was also observed for 7 minutes crossing the sky.
Wollundry Rotarians Bill Parker and Pat Ingram also attended the presentation.
Wollundry Presents $10,000 Cheque to Coolamon Rotary
Miss Wagga Velika Hayes and Community Princess Jess Barclay, were introduced by David Byfield. It has been some years since we have had Miss Wagga representatives at our club and so David took the initiative and invited our current winner of the contest to visit.
Velika and Jess spoke alternatively and gave us a comprehensive insight into the work of the Miss Wagga quest and the exciting year they have experienced.
These two impressive young women who attended Kildare High School, spoke about the journey of discovery and growth they have experienced. They explained that the Miss Wagga quest has a twofold purpose, to give participants the opportunities for personal development and to raise funds for charities. They chose four charities including Carevan Wagga and Ronald McDonald House. Since inception, the Quest has raised an impressive sum of money for the Wagga Community.
Velika and Jess both described Crowning Night as a highlight of their lives, very exciting and the reward for their fundraising achievements. To prepare they had engaged in training workshops on public speaking, deportment and community engagement. Their presentation to our club demonstrated how well they had absorbed all they had learned.
Some of the fundraising highlights were: Christmas in July, a Trivia Night with 200 participants, a Long Lunch, Lawn Bowls at the RSL and a High Tea.
Local businesses were very cooperative and Velika and Jess both thanked various organisations for their help. The young women were motivated to enter the quest by their desire to give back to the Community. They experienced the benefits of a happy family life and school and described Wagga as their forever home.
Wagga's sister city Leavenworth (Texas) played host to our Ambassadors for six days. They experienced many highlights including a Mayoral Reception, Wagga Week, a visit to Fort Leavenworth, Wagga Drive, an American High School, a Lions Club and learnt the history of Leavenworth.
The year has passed quickly for these talented young women and they both believe it has equipped them well for their future. They thanked the club for the opportunity to speak and were rewarded by the full attention and applause of our members.
President David thanked them on our behalf and presented each with a bottle of Wollundry Olive Oil, a fitting home grown product for two special locals.
A few weeks ago at the beginning of our meeting President Davids partner Karen Walsh briefly made an announcement that her daughter Emily Walsh, won an Emmy Award. At that time we didn't have the photos and the details, but now we do and here it is courtsey of Region Riverina, 10 September 2024 | Jarryd Rowley
Cootamundra High School graduate Emily Walsh has become an Emmy winner with her incredible work on FX’s hit TV show Shogun. Photo: Supplied.
Inspired by the design of Captain Jack Sparrow, Emily Walsh began her career in makeup after completing a TAFE course during her final years at school.
Little did she know that 18 years after completing her studies, she would win an Emmy for Outstanding Period Makeup (non-prosthetic) on the hit FX TV show Shogun.
Shogun this week broke the record for most Creative Arts Emmys won for a single season, scooping a total of 14 awards across makeup, production and costuming.
Filmed during the pandemic, Shogun is one of the most expensive shows ever filmed, costing a reported $250 million in its first season.
It quickly became one of FX’s (a network owned by Disney) most streamed shows ever, pulling in more than two billion streamed minutes across its first 10 episodes. It also has become one of the most critically acclaimed forms of media ever.
So how did one of the biggest shows in history land a makeup artist from Cootamundra?
Back in 2007, Emily was in her graduating year at Cootamundra High School. According to her mother Karen, Emily was allowed to pick up a skill-based course through TAFE and landed on makeup.
After completing her schooling and taking a gap year, Emily was offered a course in Sydney with Napoleon Perdis Cosmetics. It was there that she learnt about prosthetic makeup and began her journey into film and TV.
“When she was younger, she was always in the theatre. She was always on stage. She would do the makeup in the dance classes, and she did all that kind of stuff,” Karen said.
“After working a couple of years in London, she came back to Australia but she didn’t know what she wanted to do.
“I asked her, ‘What do you want to do?’ and she said, ‘I really want to get back into doing prosthetic makeup and the best place to do that is in Vancouver Film School in British Columbia, Canada.”
Being a Canadian citizen through ancestry (Karen was born in Canada), Emily completed her course at Vancouver Film School in 2016 and from there moved on to a handful of shows, including Canadian drama Family Law and CW’s Big Sky.
Emily then received a recommendation from one of her peers to work on a Disney-funded historical epic. Learning that it would be a high-budget adaptation of the popular Japanese story Shogun, Emily was justifiably reluctant.
“When she was first asked, she was like, ‘I don’t know whether I can do that’,” Karen said.
“I think that was when the nerves set in. The show is so big, and she was really unsure about whether she was going to do it.”
Struggling with harsh weather, pandemic restrictions and long hours, the difficulties of working on a show such as Shogun also became some of its perks.
“They [FX and Disney] brought people from Japan to show them how to tie all the costuming properly, how it would be in the old, traditional way,” Karen said.
“It became very, very authentic in that sense.
“She also worked exclusively with the lead actor Cosmo Jarvis [John Blackthorne in the series] because he was immune-compromised during the production. She learnt a lot of new skills and has taken a lot of confidence away from working with him.”
After 10 months of filming and nearly 18 months of post-production, the show finally premiered on Disney+ in Australia on 27 February, 2024. After several months of hype and countless minutes streamed, Shogun was nominated for a record 25 Emmys.
During the Creative Arts Emmys on 8 September, Emily won the prestigious award for the series’ eighth episode, titled The Abyss of Life.
“Working on Shogun has been the highlight of her career so far,” Karen said.
“On Sunday night, her time, winning that Emmy showed off just how many years of hard work she put in, and to see her get that recognition is a dream come true.”
Shogun has officially been renewed for a second season, so here’s hoping Emily and her team will return.
President David opened the meeting with Rotary Grace followed by a toast to The King, The People of Australia, and Australian Farmers.
He then invited David Golland to present the Projects approved by the Board, to be ratified by the Club.
The following Projects were put to members for a vote and were all passed without objection:
Nairobi Literacy $1,000
Rotarians against Malaria $5,000
Summer School of Strings $1,000
Polio Plus RAWCS $5,000 (Augmented to $15,000 by Rotary Foundation)
Defib for Pinaroo Village to be purchased by Village management and reimbursed by Cub up to $2,000 (Passed at a previous meeting)
GUEST SPEAKER KEN DILLON (continued)
Ken's address last week was greatly appreciated by members and he was given a chance to answer questions and conclude as he had run out of time last week.
In his entertaining was Ken told us that he has two main commitments in retirement apart from Rotary.
The first is being a Board Member of an applied Psychology and Learning organisation which is devoted to help people to become mentally work ready. Physical ability is one thing but Psychological readiness for some jobs is also very important i.e. First Responders, Ambulance, Service Personnel.
The second is sorting out a huge collection of Stamps for the Uniting Church. The stamps are collected from old envelopes, processed and sent on to be sold to help the Methodist Mission in Sydney. Ken inherited the job and has literally sacks full of stamps to sort.
Well done Ken. You are a busy man.
SICK LIST
James Ross is recovering after dropping a safe on his foot! Not sure what he was doing carrying a safe but we hope you are soon mobile James. We need you.
Peter Wilesmiuth is in Murwillumbah Hospital after another nasty fall off his bike. Ed. understands it is ribs this time and not neck. Painful but potentially less serious. Get well soon.
Bob Willis is recovering from his recent illness and was at today's meeting. He thanked all those who supported him during his illness especially those who gave him lifts to and from. He informed the meeting that he will be moving to Sydney to be near his children. Best wishes for the future Bob and thanks for your service!
John Ashcroft was also at today's meeting. John is slowly recovering from a burst appendix a serious event at any age but more so for those in senior years. We hope you'll be back to full health soon John.
SATURDAY MARKET REPORT
File photo of a farmers market group to give you an idea of what a photo of last week's team might look like
Our market team consisted of OIC Craig Bromley, Col Duff, Richard Bagley, Benny, Michael Knight, Doug Conkey, Fergs, Kev Watts, Pat Ingram, James Hamilton, Tim Hutchins and Croz. Bit of a chilly start but warmed up quickly. Our stall holders were late with their set ups, which had us concerned but by 8.30 they were all ready for the rush. We tried a new menu item on the bbq, called a Jumbo, which had egg bacon sausage and onion at $8. Our expert bbq team of Michael, Croz and Pat said it sold well, but the price should be a bit higher, say $8.50. The next OIC might have a think about that.
We lost about a quarter of our site to ‘ground under repair’ however Steve did a bit of magic and found room for our 27 stall holders. All of them seemed pleased, or as pleased as stall holder can be. Unfortunately we were missing a coffee van, but we have a new permanent van as of next month.
Our setup and day went smoothly, with James getting the fidgets after sitting down for 10 minutes. He couldn’t help himself and got stuck into a spring clean in the container.
Benny also left late in the morning for a pressing engagement, to be replaced by his twin James Ross. We found out later that Benny’s ‘pressing engagement’ was a game of golf.
Total stall holder income was $1320. The bbq sales were $758. Expenses were up a bit on normal but should be down a bit next market. The gate was $607 Total banked was $2,385. Cheers, Craig B and the September Market Team
HENTY FIELD DAYS AND STARRTS
Darren Wallace, Neil Pinto and Phil McIntosh will accompany Aly Reid and a number of refugees to the Henty Field days on Wednesday 18th. This initiative is to assist the refugees who are very interested in Australian Farming methods. Many of them come from farms in in Iraq and Afghanistan. We look forward to hearing how the day went.
LILLIER LODGE DINNER
Pat Ingram informed members that he, John Horton, Michael Knight and Doug Conkey cooked dinner for the occupants of Lillier Lodge last Wednesday night. Our Club Members undertake this task twice a year. Pat said how appreciative the cancer sufferers and their partners were. They fed 24 people. John Gray, who transports patients for treatment, endorsed Pat's comments saying how a number had said that the meal was the highlight of their week. Well done all.
GEARS AND BEERS
Check out the Website gearsandbeers.org.au
Phil McIntosh, our member who is responsible for introducing Gears and Beers to Wagga with the help of our Club, gave us a run down on what is expected of us.
Firstly he would like to have a meeting every Wednesday evening at 5.30 p.m.at the Lawson until the event. Everyone is welcome but committee members are requested to attend.
Phil said that because there are a number of new members in the Club he would go back over basics to assist everyone on what needs to happen to make the event a success.
Gears and Beers is a two part function: A series of Bike rides and a Craft Beer Festival
On Saturday 5th Oct there is a ride around the Wiradjuri Trail, about 45 kilometres starting at the Riverside Precinct Auditorium. Afterwards there will be entertainment and bag collection in the Victory Memorial Gardens.
On Sunday there are five rides: Roadie 105k; Dirty 130k; Saltie 70k; A 30k; Family 10k. Set up and Preparation for first ride starts about 5.30 a.m. Remember daylight saving starts on Sunday of the main events!
Imagery sells the event. Sunday morning banners and street bunting are put up along Baylis St in front of the Civic buildings along to the bridge over Wollundry lagoon.
Commentator and street broadcast commences.
Ride Marshals and escorts must wear hi-viz vests and they will be available on the day.
Marshals can ONLY give instructions to BIKE RIDERS. Normal vehicle traffic will be available to the public.
Rosters are available and members are requested to be generous with their time and nominate for more than one duty.
Manuals will be available next week.
Musette Bags will be filled on 30th September. Volunteers will be required to assist. It is a big job taking up the best part of a day. Further information will follow.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
The draw prize was initially one by David Milne, but he elected to call for a further draw as he doesn't drink wine!
This left John Ferguson as the next draw winner. Congrats John
There are a couple of items discussed at Monday’s Board meeting that I would like share.
Hat day will be on the 15th of October 2024. It was suggested that members contribute $10 each towards Rotary Health as well as wearing the most unusual hat you can find.
Joe McGirr’s office is seeking nominations for Wagga woman of the year. How to nominate can be found on Joe McGirr's website.
The combined Wagga Peace Committee will meet on 26th of September to begin planning for a peace Day ceremony to be held in Feb/March 2025.
Nominations are required from all Clubs for the Community award and the Helen and Peter Walsh Memorial award. Have a think about someone you would like to nominate and maybe discuss this with myself.
Several Environmental Projects are being considered in partnership with Wagga Wagga City Council. The projects being considered will not involve too much hard labour. I have invited Christina Reid to come and speak at a meeting, TBA
Cork and Fork is still under consideration with the first one maybe in March 2025. All depending on meeting with Tim McMullen and the C&F committee.
For those that missed it, The Sydney Swans had a comfortable win on Saturday…phew!!!
This was a very busy meeting with two guest speakers and a presentation. We were also graced with the presence of Ken Cook, Norma Gray and Karen Walsh( ptr of Preso David), and OS visitors Steven and Lorrie Ledger, Lorrie having been an exchange student to our Club from Canada in the 1980’s.
Lorrie and Steve had previously visited our Club in 2020. They are in OZ to attend a wedding in Brisbane. Lorrie let us know that their family is now a second Rotary Exchange family with their son who went on exchange to Brazil in 2013. They have maintained a close relationship with John and Norma Gray. A great example of the benefits of Rotary exchange.
Karen Walsh was very pleased to share the information that her daughter had received an “Emmy” at the recent awards. A great effort from a girl from Cootamundra who progressed through the industry to America. Congratulations to Emily Walsh
Our first guest speaker was Rhys Cummins from Murrumbidgee Mens Group (MMG). Rhys was driven to establish the MMG after suffering mental health issues and could not see where to turn. The group was established in 2019. He and his mate who established the MMG decided that discussion with someone else seemed to reduce the stress. They meet every second Sunday at various venues in Wagga. They sit in a circular fashion so that no one is excluded or “in charge”. It allows men to openly discuss their thoughts. Most meetings have usually 10 to 15 present. They do get guest speakers from time to time. Some of those speakers have been high profile NRL players. If someone needs external help, Rhys says they can send them in the right direction.
They discuss the hard stuff. The members do not feel inadequate in discussing all matters including domestic violence. It seems to be easier to share the stories between the men rather than trying to share with family members. A number of men come to the meetings without mental health issues, just to listen and to share their thoughts.
The MMG is self-funded, although they have received a couple of government grants, Rhys was thanked by President David. The message is very clear. If anyone is struggling with health issues, put your hand up and ask for help.
Gears & Beers Chair Phil McIntosh, gave us an update on the event which is closing in quickly. The route for the dirty 130 has changed slightly but it just means a bit rougher road. The registrations are ramping up and are now higher than last year.
The very pleasing aspect of the event is the sponsorship team have managed to secure sponsorship of in excess of $100K. An outstanding effort in an economy which is doing it a bit tough. The only downside is that Phil is receiving information that accommodation is difficult to get. Gears & Beers Meetings are every Wednesday at 5.30 at the Lincoln.
Ali Reid from “Start” attended the meeting at the invitation of David Post and was presented with 25 entry tickets to the Henty Machinery Field days commencing next week. These tickets are intended to be given to people like some of the Yazidi men to see what happens in the farming sector. A couple of our members will accompany those attending.
Doug Conkey asked for the Club support to attend a movie this Sunday September 15 being run for Legacy. Tickets are available at Legacy House. The movie is called “The Runt” and Peter Crozier hopes the movie is better than the Rotary promoted movie last Friday which was “ the worst movie he has ever seen”
We are cooking at Lillier Lodge this Wednesday and Pat Ingram has it all organized
Our “This is your life” was delivered by newest member Ken Dillon. Ken was given limited time and told a great story.
Ken grew up in Bathurst and attended both Primary and secondary there. He had a connection in Wagga as his Grandfather was station master at Wagga and lived in the two story home adjacent to the Railway station.
Ken was a keen worker and his parents instilled in him to the notion of “hard work”. He was keen to advance his education and moved from Bathurst to Sydney so choose the “bush“ University at Macquarie. It was far enough from the City Centre to be in the realm of bush. He graduated with a degree in Psychology and a Diploma in Education.
A number of Prac teaching roles was an experience for Ken. At one situation he was mistaken for a student “out of uniform” and threatened with two cuts with the cane. He immediately went along with the plan until he told the Principal that he would rearrange his jaw if the stick managed to inflict the corporal punishment. That appeared to be the start of quality education for ken as he progressed through a very distinguished career in Education. He got his first appointment at a Girls Catholic Boarding School. The principal priest was rather pleased that he had this new lad Dillon, who he assumed was catholic. Ken said ‘I am actually not Catholic”. The Priest said’ That’s ok, you will be by the time you leave”
When he was offered a teaching position said “anywhere but Sydney” so he was offered Ardlethan in 1982 in the middle of a shocking drought. That was great experience with friendly families respecting teachers to a high degree and indulged with many meals at family homes.
Ken had the serendipitous experience on day 1 at Ardlethan of meeting his future wife.
The future was associated with further education and progress through the system. He and his wife decided that a move was necessary. They went to Forbes with a long term intention, but, once again, an opportunity arose from the local RCAE( now CSU). He was offered the job at an interview and, somewhat shocked at the lack of due diligence, accepted the job as a College lecturer. He decided that furthering his academic career was the way to go.
He completed a Masters with Honors and continued on in the lecturing role. Doors seemed to open for Ken when a head of School was retiring, Ken put his hand up and.…again….got the job as “head of school” Ken was supervising PHD students and cemented the head of school position for six years. His commitment to work was evidenced when he was offered the Dean of the faculty as associate Professor.
The academic career did not stop there as ken was then appointed to his final position at CSU as Deputy Vice Chancellor for six years before Ken retired from education five years ago. An outstanding career from Bathurst primary to VC of CSU.
Congratulations Ken
A big thankyou to Rob Pearson who cleaned the top of the Civic Precinct container, patched the holes in the roof and put a new roof over the top of the container.
Secretary Phil came to the podium and gave a report from the Projects Committee: 1. Bike Canteen $5,000, 3, Days for Girls a replacement printer $1,099 and 4. Nepal Marty Village $500. Phil moved , John Gray and Geoff Breust seconded and it passed.
President David reminded members to pay their subs.
President David read an email for a Tolland Clean Up Day Monday August 26th and it was agreed if members wished to participate individually to contact Deidre Tome.
President David read an email from District about Wollundry’s applications for two District Grants has been capped at $3375. David Benn spoke and told members that his children and Tim Hutchings children are currently in Fiji involved in the school project helping and participating in the construction. The Board proposed that the grant money for the school in Fiji and the STARTTS project be reduced and both projects be supplemented by the Club’s project committee.
Peter Crozier kept track of everyone who had a glass of wine or a drink at the meeting and along with Peter Wilesmith performed the duties of collecting money for the libations.
Secretary Phil talked about the visit next week to Pinaroo Village. It will cost $15 per head and an EFPOS machine will be available. John Smith reminded Rotarians attending Pinaroo Village to please park on Pinaroo Dr as parking is very limited in the Village. See the map on the bottom of the bulletin.
Phil and John Egan will be attending a DV conference.
President David said he will be gone for 4 weeks and Doug Sutton will be gone for 8 weeks.
Wollundrians helped out at Bunning's Barbecue on Sunday to help St Vincent De Paul Society (Vinnies) raise funds for their Winter Appeal. Gail Crozier, Kay Sutton Peter Crozier, Darren Wallace and Doug Sutton cooked around 500 sausages to help raise a total profit of $1,419. Trevor Urquhart thanked the volunteers and Wollundry Rotary for their assistance.
Our Club received some good publicity. Good effort.
Board Meeting: Mon 15th July 2024 at the Lawson, 5.30pm.
Sat Markets: The next scheduled market is on Sat 10th August 2024. Roster to the left. Please check and make early arrangements for swaps if needed.
Vocational visit: We will be visiting Pinaroo Village on Tuesday 23rd July. I will be sending an email out seeking attendees, please respond ASAP. A BBQ lunch will be provided at a cost of $15 per head. Payment by EFTPOS on the day. We will supply the food and use the cooking and clean up facilities on site. Several other interesting visits are planned for the year ahead.
Club Assembly: Next week's meeting will be a Club Assembly at the Lawson; we will have a guest speaker on early.
Rosters: Please note all the rosters to the left, noting your responsibilities, and please make early arrangements for swaps if needed.
Our new President David Post opened the Meeting with a prayer of thanks and proposed a toast to King Charles 111, The People of Australia in particular indigenous Australians who are celebrating NAIDOC week.
NAIDOC week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The week is c celebrated not just by Indigenous Australian communities but also by Government agencies, schools, local councils and work places.
President David welcomed visitors Richard Daley and Ken Dillon picture above with John Flynn and David Milne respectively.
David raised a number of topics including:
A new venue for our meetings and committee meetings. After some discussion members agreed to meeting henceforth at The Lawson on Tarcutta St
The Changeover at The Grange was deemed an outstanding success.
Distribution of the Bulletin to Wives and Partners. It was agreed that they should be entitled to receive the bulletin as they have in the past. This can be easily done by members forwarding their bulletin to the W/P email or by providing the W/P email address to be included in Club Runner.
A leadership forum on Domestic Violence is to be held on 26th July. Two representatives from organisations can attend. Send an email to david.post57@gmail.com
Member Welfare. David reminded members to look out for each other and spread the word if you know someone is unwell. Bob Willis is still in hospital.
Check Committees in Club Runner to see which Committee you have been assigned to. Check also at the bottom of your Bulletin.
Past President Darren Wallace thanked all who came to the Changeover on Saturday night saying what a great night it was. He wanted to read the following citation for David Golland. In the rush of the evening it was overlooked and so it is published here:
David Golland joined The Rotary Club of Wollundry in October 2020, just short of 4 years ago.
He is a retired businessman and committed volunteer within the charitable community of Wagga Wagga.
He has proven to be a diligent and competent member of our team during those few short years of service.
For the past year he has been a member of the Club Board and carried out the duties of Service Projects Director in a committed and impactful manner.
This year, he has also served as the Chairman of two committees and served as a committed member on three other committees.
David chaired the scholarships committee this year and revitalised the Club’s interaction with local Secondary Schools and Charles Sturt University. Students will benefit from his efforts in this role, well into the future.
He has also been keenly involved in Committees surrounding Saturday Markets, Service Project assessment and Rotary Youth Driver Awareness program.
The recognition by the Club tonight, for David’s services is well deserved.
Congratulations again David!
MYSTERY CARTON OF WOLF BLASS SPARKLING WINE
Richard Baguley arrived in our meeting room with a carton of said wine but did not know from whence it came. Mystery was solved by Pat Ingram (no surprises there), who revealed it had been purchased some years ago for the Food and Wine Festival VIP Room. Apparently it has been sitting in Romanos store room until found by Richard.
BUNNINGS BARBECUE FOR VINNIES
Sunday's Barbecue on July 7th will benefit St Vincent De Paul Society. Four volunteers from our Club will be assisting wearing our new rig. It will be a good opportunity to show our face in the community. Volunteers are Peter Crozier, Doug Sutton and Darren Wallace.
Stuart Heriot and John Egan have had to withdraw so we need another two volunteers. If you can help call Doug Sutton on 0418451563
Meeting No.1, a new year commences. We had a good role up of members, great to see two guests Ken Dillion has been attending with Peter MacKinnon and Richard Daley who was the guest of John Flynn also to several members who have been recently absent, thank you for attending my first meeting.
I was thinking this meeting would be a steady introduction. However, you can never count on the best laid plans, we did have a full agenda. There were plenty of lively discussions from members about several agenda items, the most important was regarding moving to a new venue for a number of reasons but mostly as the cost of Romanos has increased significantly over past couple of months.
There were two options available, Unique Café and The Lawson.
Members agreed to accept the offer made by Peter MacKinnon who offered the use of the Lawson function room for our Tuesday meetings. The Lawson was offered at no cost; however members agreed the Club is to look at some form of financial contribution or similar.
I have confirmed the Club’s decision with Jack MacKinnon with our first meeting to be held at the Lawson next week Tuesday 9.7.24.
It would be appreciated if a few members could arrive at 12.00 on Tuesday to assist with the furniture setup for our first meeting and then stay a little later to assist in returning the room to the standard configuration, thankyou in advance.
Tea, coffee and water will be provided while members are welcome to bring a snack or sandwich to enjoy during the meeting. Further discussions and investigation into possible food options are being followed up.
We now have a standing booking for the next twelve months with some flexibility to accommodate vocational visits or other requirements. Jack has also agreed that we can have the use of the Board room for Board and Committee meetings also for larger committee meetings the use of the function room will be available, however Jack has requested these meetings be booked by the respective Committee Chairs.
Romanos management has been notified of our decision with the final invoice being forwarded to the club. As discussed at today’s meeting we will collect the remaining items this Thursday @ 1.30. Several members have indicated their availability to assist. I will follow up with those members to confirm arrangements
Committees are mostly completed, members please note their committee responsibilities will be listed at the bottom of the Bulletin, if there are any questions, please don’t hesitate to give me a call to discuss.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for today’s discussions and their willingness to offer suggestions, opportunities and ideas resulting in outcomes. This is a real strength of our Members and our Club.
Soon to be Past President Darren Wallace and MC for the evening Sally Bryant from ABC Riverina.
Last Night's 46th Changeover Dinner for Wollundry Rotary was an outstanding success. The Grange Community Centre proved a masterstroke for the organising Committee.
A spacious inviting Dining Area with Bar and Kitchen facilities, provided the perfect setting for a night of good food, fine wine and conviviality for the 87 Rotarians and Guests.
President Darren opened the meeting with an Acknowledgement of Elders of our Wiradjuri Nation. He welcomed our special guests including The Hon. Joe McGirr MLA Member for Wagga and Deputy Mayor Amelia Parkins as well as Representatives from Pro Patria.
He then called on PP James Hamilton for the traditional Invocation, which included prayers of thanksgiving and for guidance.
PP Phil Burgess attended to Housekeeping matters and read a list of apologies from Fred and Rae Lonergan, Mayor Dallas Tout, Kirsty Cole, Rotary Clubs of Junee and Tumbarumba and Inner Wheel.
MC for the evening Sally Bryant, took her place at the microphone to introduce herself and take control of proceedings. Sally spoke of her awe for the work done by Rotary and Wollundry Rotary Club in particular. Since her arrival Wagga in 2019 she had come to realise how important Wollundry's contribution affects the wellbeing of many in our community. Sally said it was a real treat and an honour to be asked to MC the evening. She spoke of change in her own organisation the ABC and the need for organisations everywhere to adapt to the new technologies, social constructs and expectations. How do you plan for the Future? she posed. We are faced with a new generation and we need to be prepared to change.
Sally then introduced PP Doug Sutton and PDG John Egan to propose a Toast to Rotary International and a Response respectively.
Following his Response to the Toast to Rotary International PDG John Egan surprised and delighted the room by presenting Pres Darren Wallace with a Paul Harris Fellowship. The surprise was that there was no forewarning, but given the amount of work Darren has done for RYPEN over many years it was no surprise that he was afforded this honour.
Members and Guests applauded Darren who was presented with a Paul Harris Badge and Testimonial.
Darren addresses the audience after receiving his PHF. He spoke of his growth in knowledge of people and of himself as he carried out his role of President. He said that he tried to initiate change in the Club and believed that he had been successful in doing so thanks to the support of The Board and the Members getting behind the various proposals. Despite some of the changes being contentious, he was grateful for the positive response of members and their acceptance of the need to take a new direction. Darren said he has never been more proud to be a member of Wollundry than he is now. He expressed elation to be handing over the reigns to DAVID POST. He looks forward to supporting David into his new role.
David Golland proudly displays his Rotarian of the YearAward which was presented to him by Dr Joe McGirr MLA. David is a relatively new member in our club but has taken up a number of duties and as a Director, has been particularly industrious. Congratulations David and well deserved.
100 %ers: James Hamilton, David Pyke, Neil Pinto, David Byfield (46 yrs) Wal Paton and David Benn,
The monet of Transition. Darren places the Chain Of Office on New President David. The "Chain" contains the names of all 46 Presidents of our Club.
New President David Post thanked PP Darren for the great work he and The Board did in the past year. He also thanked all members for their support in acknowledging him as the latest President of such a wonderful club. David said his main focus would be in the areas of Mental Health, Domestic Violence, Peace, Local Community, Partnerships and International Programmes like Polio Plus.
New Board for 24/25 from left to right: President David Post, Phil McIntosh, John Egan, David Golland, Geoff Breust, Peter Whilesmith, Darren Wallace, Doug Sutton and Phil Burgess.
PP Darren drew the official proceedings to a close with a thank you to the MC Sally Bryant for an excellent job, a thank you to the Grange excellent Bar Staff Ron Crouch and Ray Pluis, David Lugton and his team. All the visitors who helped make the evening exceptional.
The lucky door prize, a bottle of Borambola Shiraz was won by Doug Sutton
President Darren opened the last meeting for the year giving thanks for the many good things we enjoy. He then proposed a toast to all the members of our Rotary Club. He thanked all for their support throughout the year and said he is looking forward to handing over the reins on Saturday.
Darren also welcomed our two guests Ken Dillon and Ross Kennedy.
As one who likes to break conventions, Darren wore a celebratory shirt instead of our new uniform. It looks to be one of a kind. Could this be a part of our Summer Collection?
CHANGEOVER
Our Annual Changeover Dinner will be held this coming Saturday at The Grange Retirement Village Community Centre, 74 Gregadoo Rd Lake Albert, behind the Grape Vines, opposite Mater Dei Primary School. The event will commence at 6p.m for 6.30p.m.
There are three car parks on Grange Boulevard at the Rear of the Community Centre, one adjacent to the Community Centre, it is on the left after you drive under the Port Cullis. If it is not too muddy you could also park on the golf course at the front of the Community Centre.
Eighty Two people including Twenty guests have booked for the dinner. Drinks at your own expense can be purchased from The Grange Bar which will be manned by two volunteers from The Grange Community. The cost of the meal is $35 per person and can be paid by eftpos at the door if not already paid. Have an enjoyable evening and please remember your alcohol limits if driving home.
SECRETARY
Peter MacKinnon thanked Phil Burgess and President Darrren for their support throughout the year. Secretary is a big job and Peter did it exceptionally well. He didn't have anything specific to report re club activities but reported a thank you to the Club from Gail Crozier. Peter is off on a break and said "I'll see you all in the New Year"
PHIL MACINTOSH reported that the latest edition of Lonely Planet Guide to the Epic Bike Rides of Australia and New Zealand, features an article on our very own Gears and Beers. Photos are included and can be viewed on the Internet. The Author was particularly impressed with the Volunteers and paid tribute to Wollundry Rotary and the Beer Festival. Click on shop.lonelyplanet.com then on your smart phone or tablet, if you swipe across you can read the article.
BUDGET 24/25
Past President and Past Treasurer David (Pykie) Pike used the projected images to help us make sense of the budget for the year.
The main takeaways are that we are in a healthy financial position. Our annual fees will be reduced to $250 members and a first year new member fee of $150 (prorated). Members can contribute to the Rotary Foundation if they wish by adding an amount of their choice to their invoice. To be a Centurion you need to contribute $100. It is totally optional.
Our Community Account including money set aside to run our events, has a balance in excess of $100,000 For more detailed information please refer to the budget documents which were emailed to all members.
SICK LIST
Doug Sutton asked members to be aware of any members who are unwell. If you know a member is unwell let others know by email, via club runner, so that the sick can be supported through contact. Rick Priest was unwell and is now recovering at home and Bob Willis is still on the sick list. Good to see Croz back at club on Tues along with Stuart Heriot.
SVDP AND BUNNINGS BARBECUE
On Sunday the 7th July the Bunnings Barbecue will be manned by volunteers for St Vincent De Paul. The Barbecue operates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Takings will go to the Society for assistance to the Poor of our City. The Vinnies Conference at Kooringal which is made up of about ten members of similar ages to our Cub members, is responsible for the day and needs some help. Shifts of a couple of hours will be arranged. If you can help out please contact me: Doug Sutton at dokay@bigpond.com or 0418451563. If we wear our new shirts and coats, it will be good advertising for our club.
JOHN HAMBLIN RIP (Rotary Club of Young)
David Benn reported on John's death. He said John was a great Rotarian and was well known in our District and to a number of Wollundrians. His funeral will be held in Young this Friday. For further details contact David 0439710716.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
John Gray was the winner of a bottle of the best from Borambola Wines.
Michael Knight and guest Ross Kennedy having a serious discussion or could it be that Michael is displaying his best party trick "How to suspend a glass in mid air"
Guest Ken Dillon and Geoff Fellows were welcomed to our meeting by President Darren. After the usual thanksgiving and opening of the meeting,
it was a day for fellowship with no guest speaker and the only formality was a report on last night's Board meeting which was held at The Lawson, courtesy of Peter MacKinnon.
Darren informed the Club that another venue is being sought for our regular club and committee meetings as Romanos is now too expensive. The Lawson is as excellent venue but has no catering, however this issue can be addressed. If any member has other suggestions please come forward.
Darren congratulated the Membership Committee for organising last Wednesday's Membership Event. It went off very well with a real buzz in the room. Twenty six prospects attended and a high proportion of Club Members were present. Darren encouraged those who had invited guests to follow up with a call, or an email, or a letter.
Three motions were passed:
To donate $4,000 per year to the Rotary Foundation.
To support a motion from the Rotary Club of Jerambomberra to seek the ban of Nuclear Weapons.
To reduce the cost of the RDU Magazine.
Darren is organising a trip to Cambodia and encourages anyone to come along. It is part of the Help Cambodia initiative which Darren and a number of Wagga people started. The trip will be for two weeks, costs are $2,400 including air fares and accommodation. One week will be spent in Siam Reep and one week in Phnom Pen.
Three of our members are on the sick list and we wish them a speedy recovery: Stuart Heriot, Peter Crozier and Bob Willis.
There will be a regular meeting next Tuesday despite Changeover being the following Saturday.
The Lucky Draw Prize was won by Doug Sutton
John, Craig and Col discussing the merits of a Paper Bulletin?
Two Davids, Neil and two Johns enjoying a convivial discussion
Kev Watts and David Benn two long term Rotary members who have seen a lot of markets and programs over the years.
There was an excellent turnout at the meeting this week, with 2 guests from the membership night.
Please get back in touch with all people that you invited to the membership night (whether they attended or not) to check in with them about their interest in the club. Asking them to attend a few meetings to meet some members and see how things run is a great idea.
The changeover dinner is on Saturday 29th at the Grange. Please attend if you can with a partner/guest or two. Sally Bryant is MC and we will have some entertainment in the form of singing by well known local Cathy Wall. Dave Lugton is providing the food, so we can expect that to be delicious.
There is a normal weekly meeting next week. My last as president. See you there.
Many thanks to the members that attended the Tuesday evening meeting this week. We had a good numbers and quite a few guests, who all enjoyed dinner and a really interesting presentation from Jackson Strong.
Jackson is a remarkable young man who is incredibly passionate about his sport and has achieved great heights (literally, as well as a few world firsts!). We saw some very interesting photos and videos of Jackson performing the world's first forward flip on a motorbike (google it), BASE jumping from a building a few weeks ago plus his new matt black Pitts Special that he built from scratch. It was a thoroughly entertaining talk.
Congratulations to John Egan and his team for the great work on the Photo Competition, which now has around 200 entries. Make sure you get along to see the exhibition and tell your friends.
It's still not too late to invite people to the club information night next week. The more the merrier.
Immediate Past President Phil Burgess called Geoff Breust to the podium to introduced the guest speaker, Isabel Baker.
Isabel started her speech with a bit of her background: nurse, midwife and in the ‘80’s started working with dementia patients. She said that there are one hundred different diseases that affect the mental wellbeing of patients. She used the term “therapeutic fibbing” to help stabilize the behavior of an agitated patient.
She talked about various examples: why a female may get agitated at 3 pm ... she is used to picking up school kids, making dinner, etc. A gentleman wanted to get up at 4 am and he was a dairy farmer and it was time to milk the cows. So, the staff found the name of a person who helped with the milking and through “therapeutic fibbing” would tell the gentleman that so and so was taking care of it. Isabel gave the example of a gentleman who fought having his shirt removed and found out that he was a former rodeo rider and had many injuries to his shoulders and clavicle.
She recommended that everyone in the audience write down their likes and dislikes in their care plan to help in their care in the later stages of their life. Isabel has written a book titled The A to Z of Dementia Care and it will be for sale in book stores at the end of the year.
After comments and questions from the audience, PP Phil presented Isabel with a bottle of Olive oil.
Guest Speaker Isabel Baker Draws Enthusiastic Applause
Our guest speaker on Tuesday the 23 of April, 2024 was Lisa Simpson from Ronald McDonald House. She gave the members a PowerPoint presentation of the details, services, costs and objectives of the organization.
Ronald McDonald House Charities Support extends well beyond the original home near the hospital. The programs include Ronald McDonald Houses, Hospital Family Rooms (Wagga Base has one), relaxing Ronald McDonald Family Retreats and one-on-one tutoring through the Ronald McDonald Learning Program.
Ronald McDonald Houses are a warm and supportive home where families can stay together keeping families close to their child with a serious illness since 1981. Ronald McDonald Houses are located within footsteps of major women’s and children’s hospitals across Australia. Our Houses provide a homely and inviting place to stay for parents, guardians, carers and their siblings while their child is undergoing treatment in a nearby hospital.
Part of what makes our Houses unique is that families are able to benefit from the compassionate support of our volunteers and staff, and the companionship of other families who are navigating a similar journey.
Ronald McDonald Family Rooms are located inside major hospitals (Wagga Base Hospital has one) and are exclusively for the families of children undergoing treatment in a nearby ward. Run by friendly volunteers, the Family Rooms are welcoming spaces where families can take time out from the clinical environment of the wards, have a tea or coffee, freshen up with a shower or find a quiet space for a much-needed nap. The Family Rooms also have dedicated play areas so the siblings of seriously ill children can have a bit of fun.
Ronald McDonald Family Retreats. With six Retreats in picturesque seaside locations across Australia, Ronald McDonald Family Retreats provide a peaceful getaway from the everyday, where families can simply be together in a tranquil setting. Families can enjoy up to a week of free accommodation, offering a welcome escape for those who might otherwise be unable to afford any time out due the pressures of caring for a seriously ill child.
Ronald McDonald Learning Program is a tailored program to help seriously ill children catch-up on missed education.
After a brief question and answer period, President Darren thanked Lisa for her well prepared and presented talk and presenter her with a small gift from the club.
Guest Speaker Lisa Simpson Talks on Ronald McDonald House Charities
Wagga Wagga City Council has set sail on a new initiative with Wollundry Rotary, agreeing at this week’s Ordinary Council meeting to accept a generous $25,000 donation from the branch to fund the addition of a shade sail, signage, and new seating at the Victory Memorial Gardens playground.
The donation, a result of fundraising efforts by Wollundry Rotary through the Gears and Beers Festival, will significantly value-add to the Garden precinct, enhancing facilities on site just in time for this year's festival, while also providing long-term benefits for families and guests visiting this beautiful part of the city centre.
Manager City Growth & Regional Assets Ben Creighton noted he was pleased with the donation.
"Once completed, families visiting the Gardens can expect a more enjoyable play experience, with increased shade for playground users and carers,” Mr Creighton said.
A key feature of the proposed signage will be its acknowledgment of not only the donation and the Gears and Beers festival, but also the fruitful, engaging long-term partnership between the Council and Wollundry Rotary in bringing projects such as this, to life.
In turn, Council will contribute project management and ongoing maintenance services for the upgraded playground area, to ensure the infrastructure meets safety standards and is of high quality.
Director Regional Activation John Sidgwick echoed Mr Creighton’s sentiments, going on to state that “this initiative underscores the positive impact that collaboration between community organisations and local government can have on enhancing public spaces for the benefit of all.”
Past President of Wollundry Rotary Club and Chair of the Gears and Beers Festival Phillip McIntosh, noted that the Club was excited to once again partner with Council in giving back to the community via a project that will serve such an important purpose.
“Core to our Rotary values has always been investing in projects that both serve the public good and promote the many wonderful things Wagga Wagga and the Riverina have to offer locals and visitors to the area,” Mr McIntosh said.
“To that end, Wollundry Rotary has enjoyed a wonderful collaborative partnership with Council over the years, particularly over the last decade in bringing the Gears and Beers festival to life, and we look forward to more of the same in years to come.”
Indeed, although the Victory Memorial Playground was not initially earmarked for shade sail installation, its proximity to the festival grounds and popularity with residents and guests to the city alike, made it a prime location for such an upgrade.
Wollundry Rotary’s selection of this location also aligns with Council's long-term strategic goal to increase shade in playgrounds across the city.
The installation is scheduled for completion by the end of June 2024.
Council to Partner with Wollundry Rotary on Playground Shade Initiative
Acting President Doug Sutton opened the meeting with an invocation of thanks and a toast to King Charles and the People of Australia. He then welcomed guests Andrea Crossley our guest speaker for today and John Ashcroft.
PP Doug then reminded the meeting of:
RYDA coming up on the 9th May
The Board Meeting next Monday 15th
A proposed Membership Function where members are requested to bring at least one prospective member for fun and information about our club.
SERGEANT SESSION
John Gray reminded us of the benefit of a good sergeant's session. Well prepared, he brought a lot of humour to the meeting with some well targeted and good humoured fines. He ended with a very fun reverse complaint of you drivers against older drivers. He almost succeeded in making us feel sorry for the speeding and erratic P platers that we see too much of on our daily commutes. Well done John!
MEDIAL UPDATE
John Ferguson was back to our meeting and informed members of his successful treatment for Cancer. He had 50 hours of chemo and steroid treatment. The latter he said allowed him to regularly beat his fellow golfers. He will have six monthly check ups and the good thing is he no longer requires a barber! H wanted to thank everyone for their support during his treatment and to let them know that he is now well. (Photo on right with hair?)
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
The lucky winner of the bottle of Borambola's best was President Elect David Post!
A feature of tonight's meeting was the presentation of a cheque to the Downside Rural Fire Service for their assistance at our annual cycle event, Gears and Beers.
Past President Paul Murray spoke about his long association with David Miekeljohn Captain of the Downside Rural Fire Service branch. They first met during the 1994 bushfires in the Blue Mountains where Paul drove a fire tanker and David was a crew member.
PP Phil McIntosh Chair of Gears and Beers speaks of the terrific assistance the RFS provides to Gears and Beers before presenting a cheque for $1000 to Downside RFS Captain Davd Miekeljohn.
David told us that the Downside RFS started in 1949. Max Miekeljohn and Jack Chamberlain were the initiators. David was a Rotary Group Study Exchange participant in 1993 and traveled to Maine and New Hampshire. He appreciates the work Rotary does and was happy to help with Gears and Beers. Firies love spraying water around don't they?
Today's guest speaker was Ansrea Crossley and she was introduced by PP Geoff Breust. Andrea is the Economic Development Officer for Wagga Wagga City Council who when not devoted to the RIFL (Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics Hub, is a committed member of the community and enjoys gardening and travelling.
After acknowledging the traditional owners, the Wiradjuri people, Andrea gave a brief history of the Bomen precinct. TEAS were some of the first occupants from the 1950's. The Livestock Marketing Centre was moved to the site in the 80's and in 2010 the Logistics hub was mooted in the Bomen Strategic Marketing Plan. In 2018 and 2019 $52 million was injected many by State Government.
Visy Paper Mill Tumult is a major tenant with regular shipping of material through the RIFL Hub. It is expected that up to 1,000 containers per day will be moved through the Hub when it is fully operational.
The RIFL Site has been planned for growth and will be able to triple its capacity in the next few years. A bitumen road borders the new sites which are fully serviced with infrastructure eg. electricity, sewage, water, gas and hydrogen.
The Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics Hub (RiFL) will deliver significant benefits and strengthen the regional economy, creating opportunities for businesses looking to relocate from metropolitan areas and establish in regional NSW.
The RiFL Hub is a core feature of the existing Bomen Business Park, which is also the focus of the recently released draft Special Activation Precinct (SAP) master plan.
We'll be delivering the RiFL Hub project in three stages:
Stage 1: construction of the necessary infrastructure and road network. This stage was completed in 2017.
Stage 2: construction of rail and intermodal terminal infrastructure required to load and unload freight on the main southern rail network between Melbourne and Sydney.
Stage 3: development and construction of a sixty-hectare industrial subdivision adjoining the Stage 2 intermodal terminal.
The proposed RiFL Hub offers a significant competitive advantage over other similar proposals and facilities in the region including:
servicing a diverse range of commodities, businesses and freight types, creating a highly sustainable facility
large industrial lot sizes (up to 10+ hectares)
able to service full-length (1800m+) trains on the $10.8B Inland Rail network
strong synergies through its close location to the Bomen Business Park industrial area, allowing freight to be transported close to where it is manufactured and processed
enabling regional businesses to trade more effectively with national and international markets through access to cost-effective transport and logistics
improved high productivity vehicle access.
Strategically located on the Main Southern Railway between Sydney and Melbourne, the RiFL Hub is critical to the future growth of our city and the broader region, driving growth, creating jobs and increased productivity.
With freight volumes across NSW projected to double by 2030 and triple by 2050, this project will be one of the most important general freight routes in Australia.
Andrea answered some questions from the floor and speculated, along with Geoff Breust, on the potential for an international airport on nearby land on the other side of the Wagga - Junee Rd to complete the Wagga Logistics picture.
Acting President Doug thanked and congratulated Andrea for her detailed and informative talk and presented her with a bottle of olive oil as a token of thanks.
It was a very relaxed meeting on Tuesday night with about 20 in attendance. Thanks to those that attended and especially to those that brought a guest.
Michael Merrylees gave an interesting presentation about Kurrajong's solar panel recycling trial in Wagga and their vision for the future.
Paul Murray went to some effort to put together a presentation as a tribute to David Meiklejohn (Paul's guest) and his team at the Downside RFS who helped out with the gears and beers. Well done Paul.
Our meeting was an evening meeting at Romanos and attendance was lower than usual for our regular meeting. President Darren opened the meeting with a vote of thanks for the many blessings we enjoy. He then welcomed a number of guests: Leah Andersen, Carolyn Murray, Sandra Legge and David Miekeljohn.
Leah and Steve Andersen who recently won first prized for their leg ham at the Royal Easter Show!
Carolyn and Paul Murray enjoyed the evening meeting.
Sandra Legge and Michael Knight made a trio of couples at our meeting.
GEARS AND BEERS AND THE RFS
A feature of tonight's meeting was the presentation of a cheque to the Downside Rural Fire Service for their assistance at our annual cycle event, Gears and Beers.
Past President Paul Murray spoke about his long association with David Miekeljohn Captain of the Downside Rural Fire Service branch. They first met during the 1994 bushfires in the Blue Mountains where Paul drove a fire tanker and David was a crew member.
PP Phil McIntosh Chair of Gears and Beers speaks of the terrific assistance the RFS provides to Gears and Beers before presenting a cheque for $1000 to Downside RFS Captain Davd Miekeljohn.
David told us that the Downside RFS started in 1949. Max Miekeljohn and Jack Chamberlain were the initiators. David was a Rotary Group Study Exchange participant in 1993 and traveled to Maine and New Hampshire. He appreciates the work Rotary does and was happy to help with Gears and Beers. Firies love spraying water around don't they?
RFS lays down water to reduce dust and make for an interesting experience
Riders splash through Hooligans creek and make their way up a slippery slope, enjoying the experience!
ROTARY MEAL DEAL
Steve and Leah Andersen, Geoff and Ros Breust and Pat Ingram enjoyed Roast Pork. Photographer Carol?
The menu was: Baked Camembert Cheese dusted in Ash and wrapped in Prosciutto; Main, Pork Belly, Sweet Potato Puree, Asparagus; Dessert, Violet Crumble Cheese Cake.
TAIWAN EARTHQUAKE
Many of the members know our former exchange student Irene Chung from Taiwan, as she recently sent us the candy that was distributed to the members. Taiwan has suffered a serious earthquake and Carolyn checked with Irene to find out if everything was OK. She said that she and her family are fine and thanks for the concern. Cheers, Paul and Carolyn
WOLLUNDRY CHARTER PRESIDENT GRAHAM HORNIBROOK
Dear Doug, As usual, I enjoy and appreciate your bulletin. Thank Paul for his note reminding me this copy is generated especially for me. Is it because I am out in the cold about which your guest speaker spoke? He reminded me of the time Tina and Michael Kennedy spoke of their travelling on the supply ship which visited our outposts in Antarctica. Tina’s description of the waves that towered the ship remain with me still. I’m doing a bit of a battle with cancer at present which has invaded my neck. After five attempts with the knife I start ray treatment late this month with good prospects forecast. I am otherwise keeping very well. I have to be in peak form by August when my new next door neighbours arrive to take up residence. John and Norma Grey will separate me from the next villa down the road where the notable Frank Fuller lives. My Betty, at 90, still gets her pusher out daily for a health walk but she is greatly slowed down by failing hearing and memory loss. I don’t need a pusher yet for stability while I enjoy the pleasure of outdoors. So that is how this 87 years old former Wollundry Charter President is coping currently. He sends his best wishes to all old and present club members, reminding them of the privilege it is to be a member of Wollundry Rotary Club, Wagga Wagga. Sincerely, Graham Hornibrook
WOLLUNDRY ROTARY PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION
ITS OPEN!!
The Wollundry Rotary Photography Competition and Exhibition is now open and taking entries.
Please get this around to as many of your friends as as you can. It is a fundraiser for the club, but much more than that.
It is a cultural event showcasing the amazing talents of our amateur photographers, and a learning experience for everyone.
We are giving $500 as the major prize in each section for the senior entrants,
and there is also a section for 15yrs and under. They could win $100
Michael Merrylees is today's guest speaker. He was welcomed by President Darren and introduced to members as a former member of our Club and is the General Manager of Commercial Enterprises for Kurrajong Waratah Industries.
Michael gave a very interesting and detailed talk of Kurrajong's latest venture. He was asked by CEO Ray Carrol to investigate the feasibility of solar panel recycling. Through a series of slides, Michael detailed a great amount of information about solar panels, their composition, life expectancy, recycling and rehabilitation. With the use of a powerpoint presentation he helped us understand the uses, benefits and the huge task of dealing with solar panel waste.
Some background on Kurrajong Waratah.
The problem of waste and what to do about it.
Are we able to keep producing new solar panels without recycling?
Valuable minerals are used in the manufacture of each solar panel.
How do they work?
Joint venture partner will be Circular Solar Solutions. The program will be known as Automated Recycling of Solar Panels or ARSON for short.
Michael said that Kurrajong is already taking solar panels which can be dropped off at their recycling centre. Processing is currently limited but will ramp up when plant is developed. He anticipates that it will take a few years for process to become profitable.
After answering a number of questions from the floor, Michael was thanked by Darren and given a bottle of Borambola Red as a token of thanks. Members showed their appreciation with applause for an interesting and informative talk.
Darren opened the meeting with a giving of thanks for life, friendship and good food. We then toasted King Charles and the people of Australia.
Visitors Tony Molyneux(guest speaker), Steve Warrell and John Ashcroft pictured right with Roger Milne, were welcomed by President Darren.
PRESIDENT ELECT TRAINING
Next year's President David Post, reported that he had attended PETS training last weekend along with John Egan and Phil McIntosh. Some of the issues discussed included an increase in District Fees, Insurance, Child Protection.
There were 85 attendees and David said that our club reforms place us miles ahead of other clubs in the District.
LILLIER LODGE DINNER
Pat Ingram reported on a very successful dinner provided by our Club Members Stuart Heriot, Michael Knight, John Horton, Bill Parker and Pat. It was great, he said to provide a service for those suffering from cancer and to engage with them and perhaps provide a welcome distraction from their treatment for a brief period. Well done.
Pat also reported that Steve Anderson had won gold at the Royal Easter Show for his Pork. Congratulations Steve!
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
For the second week in a row David Benn won the bottle of wine. He took home two bottles of Borambola's Best.
ATTENDANCE
32 Members were at today's meeting along with three visitors.
Today's speaker Tony Molyneux was introduced by Michael Knight who told us that Tony's and Michael's spouses were members of the Embroiderers Guild. Thus Michael became aware of Tony's involvement in Antarctic expeditions and invited him to come to our club as a guest speaker.
An employee of Antarctic Division Journeys, Tony took us through a series of spectacular slides helping us to get a good understanding of the terrain and freezing conditions on this great continent. Since 1983 Tony has been variously coordinating expeditions to Casey Station, resupplying stations including Davis and Mawson, working with logistics to establish the Blue Ice Runway.
Australia has two Icebreaker Ships, Polar Bird and Aurora Australis which was built in Newcastle NSW. These Icebreakers provide a very rough ride until they get to the ice when they literally ride onto the ice crushing it and therefore making for a much smoother transit. They don't have a keel, hence the extreme motion in the southern ocean.
One interesting point about Icebergs Tony told us is that they melt faster underwater than they do on top. Because most of the Iceberg is underwater they eventually become top heavy and flip over so you don't want to be too close when that occurs.
The trip from Hobart to Casey Station via Macquarie Island traverses the Roaring Fortys, "Filthy Fifties" and the "Screaming Sixties". It takes 6 days to reach Casey and 14 days to reach Mawson. Herd Island, like Antarctica itself, is claimed by Australia as its territory. A claim recognised by only four other nations. Herd Island is Australia's only active volcano. It is 55 metres higher than Mt Koziusko and last erupted in 2018.
Macquarie Island is an uplift of the ocean floor and so is an ideal place to do research. It is World Heritage listed and has been returned to a vermin free place after much effort.
The abundant wildlife includes Souther Right Whales, Penguins, Elephant Seals, Seals which all looked healthy and thriving in the pictures we were shown.
Staff are required to wear specialist gear in both Summer and winter. The outside temperature in Summer is as low as minus 18 and as high as minus 4. Blizzards can set in very quickly and so guide ropes are placed strategically to allow staff to find their way to shelter if there is a whiteout.
The Australian stations run their internal temperatures at a comfortable 18 degrees c. Sikorsky helicopters are used for quick transport between bases and to transport fuel and goods. The first female engineer has broken the ice and was responsible for the fleet of choppers. There are operating theatres on the hosts and stations but accidents can cause real dramas.
President Darren thanked Tony for his very informative talk and bringing to our realisation just how harsh and beautiful the Antarctic environment is. Members warmly applauded Tony in support of Darren.
We had very good attendance at this week's meeting, plus a number of guests. Great work!
Our guest speaker Tony Molyneux treated us to a very interesting presentation on his visits and work in Antarctica. It was a fascinating insight into living and working in one of the harshest environments on the planet.
***DON'T FORGET***
Next week's meeting is an EVENING MEETING.
Tuesday 2nd April
Arrive from 6pm
Meeting from 6.30-7pm
Bring a friend and/or guest
Enjoy dinner out
Guest speaker: Michael Merrylees from Kurrajong Recycling - on solar recycling
President Darren opened the meeting with a strange strangled ringing of the bell and welcomed everyone
Today was the monthly club assembly meeting, presented after the Board meeting.
The club confirmed a donation of $5000 to Rotarians Against Malaria. RAMs
Also we put $5000 towards Polio Plus. We are still that close, but Polio eradication is a bit like herding cats!
The Board also announced that they had approved $750 for ROMAC (Rotarian Overseas Medical Aide to Children)
There CSU Scholarship committee has been very active, providing some $20000 to two extraordinary students so that they could keep their studies going.
The Noel Barnes Scholarships have also been awarded with $2200 being sent to four high schools to assist cash strapped students continue to HSC.
The Committee has done an exhaustive job and deserves commendation for their actions.
Pres Darren has been very active with RYPEN, which was run last weekend.
He reported that is was very successful and exhausting, with over 70 teenagers, but well worthwhile. Once again our club picked up the tab to run RYPEN training for the leaders, something that should be a District Responsibility This year it ran to $975.
Darren was also especially grateful to PP John Gray and Bill Parker, who drove the bus for the attendees.
They proudly display their RYPEN caps!
A long discussion took place as to the cost of being a Rotarian. To run our club and satisfy Rotary demands makes it necessary to ask for $450 per member per year.
Costs are way too high, particularly from RI and District, but that is out of our remit at the moment. The wide discussion resulted in a few ideas of how to reduce the cost, and will be undertaken as the year unfolds.
We have applied for a District Grant to assist the organisation STARTS. PE David Post has seen a need to help refugee people move ahead both financially and emotionally and is seeking to supply sewing machines to the group. The application has gone in and we await the decision from District!
An old friend returned today for a visit. Ward Gator was the guest of PP David Benn.
Pres Darren thanked everyone for coming and PP David Benn won the bottle of wine. We closed in the usual way with the National Anthem.
Meeting was chaired by PP Phil Burgess who opened the meeting with a reflection and a toast to King Charles and the People of Australia.
Phil then welcomed our guest speaker Rev. Karen Kime who immediately came to the microphone.
GUEST SPEAKER
We were fortunate to have another guest speaker in Rev Karen Kime.
Karen was welcomed and thanked at the end by Phil Burgess.
Karen had a great story. She is the first Aboriginal person to be ordained by the Anglican Church.
Karen began with an acknowledgement of country, paying her respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Karen let us know that her “mob” come from Dingo Creek in Biraba Country, which is a very small part of the aboriginal landscape near Gosford on the Central Coast. She is now a resident in Wagga Wagga and loves it in this part of the Country, living near the water which is exactly what her forebears did. Karen credited her journey to her grandparents, those grandparents were bought up on a mission until they were about to bring up their own family and fled to Sydney. That was not good for living as they lived under bridges, parks and other inhospitable places, before settling in Newtown. They were both passionate for the Aboriginal people and her Grandfather drove and undertook a protest in 1938 about the plight of his “mob”. It was big national news at the time.
Leading up to 1940, her Grandfather also started the first “all blacks” rugby league team. That team included a large number of Wiradjuri men, who were working in Sydney. Karen grew up in Cabramatta in western Sydney. Karen recognized a large diversity of people living ai that are, with a large number of European migrants living in that area. That area is now strongly populated by the Vietnamese people.
Karen struggled at school finding it somewhat difficult to fit in as an aboginal girl so left school at age 14 and took up Jillarooing on outback stations. Karen loved the remoteness of those places and was taken aback at the living standards on the Stations of the aboriginal and non aboriginal people. That was a terrible shock to Karen and drove her to do something about it.
With her passion for change, Karen changed her course of action and attended CSU to complete a teaching degree, followed by a Masters.Karen teamed with Uni of NSW to train teachers to learn how to teach aboriginal kids, who were dropping out of school at the first chance, just like Karen did.
The major change that took place was young aboriginal people started attending Universities and finding carreers. Some are doing PHD’s.
Karen joined the Anglican ministry towards the end of the 90’s with a mission to removed barriers in communities. Karen went to Young as her first parish, followed by Darlington Point, Coleambally and then Hay.
Karen was invited to write the first reconciliation statement in the Canberra-Goulburn Diocese, This had a connection with the four ways of Rotary as “Is it the truth”. Nadoc week placed a special honour on Karen with the statement “ Because of her, we can”
Following all of that busy schedule, Karen is now working closely with Erin earth
Other important news
If you think we are getting on in years, think about this in a hostage situation, you are likely to be released first. No one expects you to run -- anywhere. People call at 9 PM and ask, 'Did I wake you?' People no longer view you as a hypochondriac. There is nothing left to learn the hard way. Things you buy now won't wear out.
NEW PRESIDENT
Daren Wallace came to meeting to announce that David post will take the role of President for the next year which was received with much applause. Darren said he was relieved that the District head hunters would now leave him alone.
NEW ACTIVITY PROPOSED
Peter MacKinnon gave us an idea to digest that we run the market previously run by Tim McMullen, called “Cork & Fork”. Darren will send out some information to assess.
Saturday markets are on this weekend at the Civic Gardens with OIC Pykie and a band of 14. Trailer pullers will be at Nth Wagga at 6.45am, followed by all other members at the Civic gardens at 7am
Karen Kime, an inspirational presentation today as guest speaker. A lady from humble beginnings, who obtained education qualifications, to allow her to follow an outstanding and spiritual career in community welfare. A working journey of giving to the people of the New South Wales and Australia with total commitment.
Congratulations to David Post for nominating to take on the Presidents role in 2024-2025. A worthy candidate who will acquit himself admirably in the position.
Best wishes and a speedy recovery to David Byfield who has recently experienced some negative health issues.
A Saturday Market this weekend back at the Council Precinct. Well done to the Saturday Markets committee on re-establishing the market back at the old site so promptly. I encourage all members to attend and support the rostered team on the day.
Our meeting this week was a club assembly, as there was a Board meeting on Monday night. Thanks to Phil B for running the meeting in my absence.
It was my pleasure to induct John Horton as a new member this week. John is a past member of Rotary and is very enthusiastic about Rotary and how he can contribute to our club. Welcome John.
A big thank you to David Golland and the Scholarship Committee for their great work in reinstating and revamping the Noel Barnes Scholarship program. Scholarships will now be offered to a student in financial need at seven high schools in Wagga.
The Board approved a Peace Day nomination for Karen Kime. Karen is a semi retired Anglican Priest and community worker who has an impressive list of achievements including being the first female aboriginal to become an Archdeacon in the Anglican Church. We hope to have Karen as a guest speaker in the near future.
Please contact Geoff Breust if you have a travel or other experience you would like to share with the club.
A new member, John Horton, was formally inducted at this meeting. John is a former Rotarian from Harden, where he was Mayor and also served as a councillor on the Hilltop Shire Council. He was nominated by Michael Knight, after they met by chance on the way to a Wollundry Club meeting. John was surveying the Wagga Rotary Clubs with the intention of joining one but was “so impressed by the commitment and success of Wollundry” that he decided to join after one meeting and has regularly attended our meeting since. John very enthusiastic about Rotary and how he can contribute to our club. Welcome John.
Michael Knight, new member John Horton and President Darren Wallace
Another new member, David Milne, was presented with his membership certificate and meeting name badge.
New member David Milne being congratulated by Stuart Heriot (with his bottle of wine)
BOARD MEETING
The President reported on Monday’s Board Meeting. There were three items to note:
The club’s decision to return the monthly market to the original Civic Theatre precinct was confirmed by the Board.
The Board approved a Peace Day nomination for Karen Kime. Karen is a semi retired Anglican Priest and community worker who has an impressive list of achievements including being the first female aboriginal to become an Archdeacon in the Anglican Church. We hope to have Karen as a guest speaker in the near future.
The members unanimously supported the Board’s decision to reinstate the Noel Barnes Scholarship and offer it as an assistance grant to needy students in seven Wagga High Schools. It consists of an annual grant of $550 to students needing assistance to complete their last two years of HSC or TAFE, so that each student will receive $550 a year for years 11 and 12. The students will be chosen by their headmaster, based on need and ability.
David Golland, chair of the Scholarship Committee, spoke to the members about the award, stating that it will fill the “youth gap” in our funding which resulted from the closure of the overseas student program. Other members spoke in support, and also stated that the scholarship could be used as a flagship program to raise the Club’s reputation in the Wagga community.
Please contact Geoff Breust if you have a travel or other experience you would like to share with the club.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
And, finally, Stuart Heriot won the draw for the bottle of wine!
There were good numbers at the first meeting for 2024. Happy New Year to all members and your families.
The Saturday Markets are heading back to the Civic Precinct in February, and we heard from James H that the format will be adjusted to mean less physical work for members. With the proposed marketing, hopefully the markets will prosper. Many thanks to the marlet committee for the hard work and dedication that they are putting into making the markets better.
Thanks to Geoff Breust for an excellent presentation on his trip to the US in the Great Lakes area.
Don't forget that the club loves hearing stories from its members - if you have a holiday story and would like to speak about it, get in touch with Geoff Breust.
Keep your eye out for some social functions that are being planned for the club in the coming months. More information to follow.
PP Geoff Breust was today's speaker and he delivered a well prepared talk on a trip he made last year to Oshkosh and the Great Lakes in USA and Canada.
Members enjoyed Geoff's presentation and gave him a strong round of applause. President Darren thanked him on behalf of the Club
President Darren opened the meeting with New Year wishes and a welcome back to all. A toast to the People Of Australia followed a welcome to our visiting guest John Horton. He announced that Geoff Breust would be our Guest Speaker.
VALE MALCOLM GLENNIE-HOMES
Michael Knight paid a fitting tribute to one of our former members Dr. Malcolm Glennie Homes. Although suffering from Cerebral Palsy, Malcolm lived a full life and was an academic with the Ag Research Institute in Wagga for 28 years from 1971 to 1999. He was 83. Despite a pronounced limp and needing a stick, he regularly walked around Lake Albert near his home.
The son of a highly respected Wagga Medico and a strong mother who lived to the age of 103, Malcolm belonged to a number of voluntary organisations including the Rotary Club of Wollundry for about 8 to 10 years. He hosted Rotary Exchange Student Lauire Steiner. R.I.P.
SATURDAYMARKETS
Market Chair James Hamilton reported the Market Committee's recommendation to move back to the Civic Precinct. Due to the age and lack agility of members, it was decided that our club would set up and pull down market tents, but we would not provide the old trestles and legs. Fold up tables will be available in the container for those who need them. There will be a promotion for the relaunch and the market will be reviewed after six months. As before, the Market will be held on the second Saturday of each month, the first to be be held on 10th February. Trading will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Set up will commence at 7 a.m.
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
The Membership Committee will be made up of the following members: Stephen Anderson, Gerry Gerlach, Phil Burgess, David Benn, David Pyke, Peter MacKinnon, John Flynn, Kevin Watts, Bill Parker and Doug Sutton(Director/Chair). A big thank you to those who responded to the request for volunteers and they are listed in order of receipt of emails. Members will be notified by email of our first meeting shortly.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
The winner of a bottle of Borambola Shiraz was David Post.
President Darren opened the meeting and welcomed our visitors: David Milne, guest of Phil McIntosh and our Guest Speaker Gerrard Rosler from RYLA.
GUEST SPEAKER
Jarod Roesler was a participant in RYLA last year and is coming back as a team member for '24.
He is an inspiring young man who was glad to say that RYLA was the best thing he has done since leaving school. It has shown him that he can do a lot more with his life than he thought, and will be going to University in the coming year, something he had not thought possible.
He then gave us questions without notice on the relationships with we baby boomers and his generation. This was unfortunate as we really had no time to gather thoughts. However it did bring forward some results.
His main claim is that this generation doesn't like meetings, and would rather communicate with Social Media. They are more than willing to help in fundraising, but don't want to attend meetings as such.
A suggestion that meetings be on a Zoom type arrangement appeared to be satisfactory.
Jarod is a very impressive young man with a big future. He spoke very confidently, and the issues he raised left the group in no doubt as to how he felt we could assimilate.
CHRISTMAS PARTY
A great time was had by all as they dodged lightning and stormy weather See the light-footed Rotarians dancing!! https://youtu.be/XIP1WJLanwk
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THE AGM
PP David Pyke gave us a comprehensive summary of the finances of Wollundry Rotary . Suffice to say they are healthy. Very few questions were raised and the club applauded David's effort
PP James Hamilton was appointed Public Officer, and the auditors were confirmed. A satisfactory result!
There is no President Elect as yet, but the Board has agreed to carry over to the following year intact!
The club also endorsed a donation of $5000 to the Salvation Army.
ROTARY MEAL DEAL
Neil Pinto thanked all those who had participated in the last round of the Meal Deal, however he said he was very disappointed with the overall response of members. Because of the difficulty he experienced getting people to fulfil their commitment, he resigned from the job of organiser. President Darren commented that the Meal Deal is a fantastic way to get to know other members and he hoped that it could be renewed in the New Year.
ROTARACT CONFERENCE
Neil Schirmer informed members that there is a Rotaract conference in Murrumbateman in January. Clare Lawler, Rotaract is asking for assistance to achieve a target of 25 more participants. It costs $1,500 to sponsor a participant. Apparently a request to our Projects committee has been submitted for us to sponsor the Wagga Community Princess.
Committee Vacancies
PP Doug Sutton is seeking members for the Membership Committee.
Neil Schirmer is retiring from the social committee and is looking for a replacement.
Geoff Breust invited us to theAero Club's Christmas Party. It's 6pm Sunday evening at the Aeroclub rooms. $50 per head.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
Visitor Jarrod drew out the peg which gave Rick Priest a thrill!
Many thanks to the many members who attended the meeting today, which was also the club AGM.
There was nothing unexpected at the AGM and we moved through the meeting quickly and smoothly. Thanks must go to James Hamilton for getting AGM things in order and Pykie for explaining the financials in as few words as possible!
In relation to Board positions, I omitted to let members know that Phil Burgess has offered to be club secretary in 2024-25, giving Peter Mackinnon a well deserved break after two years in the job. Many thanks to both Phil and Peter for stepping up.
Speaking of stepping up, the role of president for 2024-25 remains vacant. It's not as big a job as you might think and you are well supported by the board. I ask that all members that have not been a president consider the role. It's important!
2023 RYLA attendee Jared Roesler (aged 25) gave a very interesting talk and asked members to consider the gap between Rotary and younger people. There were some great questions and a broad discussion about the issue, which is obviously a big consideration when trying to attract younger members.
Thanks also to the members that attended the club Xmas party at Downside Hall last Sunday. It was hot and stormy but the rain held off and a great time was had by all. The Tin Shed Rattlers put on a great show. Thanks to Michael Knight for managing the BBQs and to the many guests that also attended, including members of the Rotary E-Club of Brindabella and Wagga Rotaract Club.
Many thanks to all members who attended the meeting this week, especially those who contributed to the discussion. Membership is perhaps the most important subject for Rotary as it provides the future direction for our club. Hope to see you at next week's meeting. Have a great week.
President Darren brought the meeting to order with a recital of grace followed by a toast to the People of Australia.
As this was a club assembly there were no visitors. The body of the meeting was devoted to discussing the way forward for membership renewal.
Quite a few members were absent and therefore the lengthy notes of the discussion have been circulated to members via email
WAGGA AERO CLUB OPEN DAY
Geoff Breust invited members to the Wagga Aero Club open day this Saturday 21st October. In return for a gold coin donation you can enjoy aerobatics and even parachute from 14,000 feet.
MEMBERS DRAW
Peter Clucas was this week's lucky winner of a bottle of McMullen's best
Saturday was the first day of the new experiment, where we moved the market site from the Council Precinct to the Wagga Showgrounds, eliminated the need for canopies and tables and reduced the team from 14 to 7 members.
There were 16 stall holders. 9 stall holders failed to show because of the clash with Lockhart’s
”Spirit of the Land”.
Attendance by the community was also very low.
However, we gained valuable knowledge in getting this market site underway.
!. We have stored the necessary bins chairs and around town signs in the Hammond Hall under the stairs. There will be teardrop banners to be sorted, but for the moment they are in the Producers Market container outside the rear of the hall.
2. We placed the barbecue within the hall this time. It remains to be seen if this is acceptable.
3. We cannot make many decisions based on this market as it was so poorly attended.
Suggestions:
The barbecue must be on site by 7.30, so ought be picked up from North Wagga by 7am.
A permanent float should be established.
A set of guide lines be provided as to the food needed, and instructions on operating the machine itself. This because many have not worked on the barbecue and do need to be guided when their turn inevitably comes.
A cafe area in the Hall as suggested by Steve Anderson is a good idea as it will tend to keep people in the hall to the advantage of the stall holders.
Summary.
The market was very light both in attendance and stall holders. We think this is because people haven’t yet got used to the idea of the change of venue or days as well as the competing events. We need to continue our advertising emphasizing this fact, or perhaps increase it.
As there was such a poor showing the team unanimously agreed to make it a free day as a PR exercise. This was well received.
The non-provision of tables or canopies caused no comment at all, and many of the 16 said they have their own already.
The team. John Egan OIC, Steve Anderson, David Foster (for Mark Hillis), David Benn, David Byfield, James Hamilton, John Smith and Frank Fuller. Ably assisted by Mal Roberson.
There was little return from the barbecue ($40), the gate was$ 198. We have to pay the Show Society $300.
We cannot of course make any decision based on this event as it was unique. We had the Circus right beside us which made our market signage a bit confusing and ineffective, and there was great leakage to the Lockhart event. In fact it turned out to be a pretty bad day to start the new wave, through no fault of our own.
The next few months will be telling as to whether this has been a wise move.
But all in all the crew had an enjoyable event, good weather and great camaraderie.
Our Meeting today was held at historic Borambola Homestead. We were hosted by our member Tim McMullen and Naomi McMullen. The gardens and fields were in magnificent order on a sparkling spring day. Three of our Past Presidents, John Egan, James Ross and John Ferguson are pictured in front of the homestead and the magnificent climbing rose can be seen in the background.
Members were treated to beautiful roast dinner accompanied by various drinks including Borambola wines and Beer. Host Tim McMullen told stories of Convicts, Kings, Race Horses, Bushrangers and other notorious happenings at Borambola Station.
“Borambola Homestead” is on the Sturt Highway, 25 kilometres east of Wagga Wagga in the Gundagai growing region of NSW. A majestic and gracious home dating back to the 1880s, Borambola has a colourful history.
It was built by George Macleay, son of Alexander Macleay, the then Colonial Secretary who built Elizabeth Bay House in Sydney. It was host to King Edward VIII when, as Prince of Wales, he visited Australia in 1920. Borambola reached its high point in the 1880s when it was the centre of a pastoral empire of about 1.4 million acres, owned by John Donnelly. Borambola then passed through several hands and was finally purchased by F.W. Hughes, a famous figure on the Australian financial scene. He used the property to breed horses, including Hiraji, the 1947 Melbourne Cup Winner. In 1992 Borambola Homestead became the McMullen family home. Another Racehorse form an earlier era, Night March, was also housed at Borambola. He was one of the few horses to defeat Phar Lap.
Bush Ranger Captain Moonlight raided the property. He was captured after a gun battle in which a policeman was killed. He was hung for his crime and was in recent times buried with his mate who was killed in the battle with police.
Tim told many interesting stories and passed around one of the original bricks used to build the homestead. They were made on site and each brick had the thumb mark of the convict who had made the brick.
With the first seedling of Chardonnay being planted in 1995, the McMullen family has carefully tilled the soil of the Borambola Homestead to create a winery, wedding and function venue that is unique to the region. They have five different selections of vintage wines, as well as their own beer and cider.
The cellar door is open for tastings by appointment, or you can book in a group tasting. Open Thursday to Monday, 11:00am - 5:00pm.
TOURS INCLUDE:
Tasting of six 100% estate grown Borambola Wines (Includes three whites and three red wines)
Tasting of Tuckerbox Craft Apple Cider
Tasting of one Tuckerbox Beer of your choice (options include Spot Light Pale Ale, Scruffy IPA or Rusty Lager)
Hearing the story behind each label
Learning about the history of Borambola Wines
Learning about the wine making process
Optional walk through the vines
President Darren presented Tim with a bottle of wine in appreciation. Being a Borambola wine it was withdrawn and a bottle of olive oil was presented instead. Everyone agreed it was a fantastic day
Many thanks to Dave Mundy and the 20+ members of the Community Orchestra who provided musical entertainment for the meeting this week. It was also great to see a few Wollundry members in the orchestra. I hear they are always looking for new people...no musical experience needed!! We'll definitely have them along again.
Don't forget to dust off your old laptops or iPads (with power supplies) for donation to Heartprint on the upcoming HELP Cambodia overseas trip.
Hoping to see you all for our vocational visit to Borambola Winery next Tuesday 10th September 12-2pm (partners and/or friends welcome). Please RSVP to Phil Burgess so we have numbers for catering. American BBQ style sit down lunch will be provided for $20.
The tenth Gears and Beers Festival organised by the Rotary Club of Wolundry was held in Wagga last weekend. It was a resounding success with riders and supporters coming from all parts of Australia as well as a large local contingent. Hundreds of hours went into the preparation and work on the two days of the Festival which started with a mystery ride around Wagga on Saturday. On Sunday there were a number of rides including the (in)famous dirty one thirty. A gruelling ride of 130 kilometres along sealed and unsealed country roads, lanes and wheat fields. The first riders home averaged just under forty ks per hour! Other rides included 115 ks, 60ks, 30s and a family friendly 10 ks.
Members feelings about the Festival are best summed up in this email to the Editor from PP David Pyke: "I am away this week so will miss the debrief at the meeting tomorrow. Just wanted to say congratulations to Phil and the whole team for an outstanding event. The comments from participants in the rides and the people attending the Festival were glowing. I was proud to be just a small part of it.
Phil Mcintosh, the instigator and driving force behind the Festival addressed the club and reported as follows:
1) Thank you to the entire club for the way you all embrace this event. You make it so much fun for the people who come and participate. Hopefully it makes us feel proud to be a Rotarian and a resident of Wagga Wagga..
So many comment's from participants about what a wonderful community Wagga Wagga is.
2) Committee - thanks for all the organization you do behind the scenes. All the fencing, signage, tables and chairs, food people and brewers. The coordination of that is massive. It dose not just happen so much goes into that. Michael Knight and Peter MacKinnon were instrumental.
The compliance paperwork is mind blowing. thanks to all that contribute - Phil James and others
3) Rosters - What can I say David Byfield, you are amazing - all the work you do to organize not just our club but all the other Rotary clubs and volunteers is awesome.
4) Bag packers - Croz and J Gray and the 30 odd people who helped..
5) Accounting- budgets - Hodgey
6) Sponsorship - John Mason and Geoff Breust.
The key to the event is that riders have fun. They enjoy a challenge and then come back to share their exploits at the beer festival. The two tents, bunting, chairs and umbrellas, made the site look great. Adrian Lindner’s wheat crop was a real feature for the dirty one thirty. One pit stop gave out 1000 water bottles, 460 sausage sandwiches and 480 cans of beer.
Thanks to those who assisted at the finish line welcoming the riders home. Dave Foster’s signs were fantastic and a thank you also to Liam and co for the media coverage. Jane Smith Bike Shop in Sydney closed to come to the Festival and rated it the best ever.
There were 2263 registrations not counting those who paid at the event. There were 99 refunds. Turnover of approx. $260,000 including almost $100,00 of sponsorship. Net takings were approx. $167,000
Thanks everyone.
President Darren thanked Phil on behalf of the club for the tremendous work he has done. Members gave a heart round of applause for Phil and his committee.
President Darren opened the meeting with a prayer of thanksgiving and proposed a toast to Phil McIntosh and the success of the Beers and Gears Festival on the weekend.
He gave a special welcome to Dave Mundy and the Wagga Community Band. Former member John Mason was welcomed to the club meeting as well.
David Benn asked members to remember Ward Gaiter and wife Danielle. Ward's mother passed away recently. Jonty Shuter volunteered that Ward is no living and working in Broken Hill where he manages a Club.
COMMUNITY BAND RECITAL
President Darren then invited Dave Mundy to the microphone to introduce the Wagga Community Band to the Club. Dave gave a rundown on the history of the band and invited anyone to come and join. He said the band has been going for about five years. It commenced with about nine members and now has over forty, many of whom had never played an instrument prior to joining. He thanked Wollundry Rotary for the financial support which has helped the band enormously. He introduced Ben Fixter, the band conducter and teacher, who was a member of the Kapooka Army Band but has been promoted to a higher rank and now has other army duties.
The band played four pieces under the baton of Ben Fixter: "You'll Never Walk Alone", "The Man From Snowy River Theme", "Les Miserables Medley", and "Sweet Caroline". Club members enthusiastically applauded to the gratification of the Rotary Club Band Members. None mentioned the occasional squeaks.
Following the performance President Darren thanked the band and suggested we have a repeat performance at some future date.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
This week's winner was Rick Priest for the second time in the past few weeks!
We were privileged to have the District Governor for D9705, Andrea Grosvenor, attend our meeting. Andrea reported that this region had 1800 members belonging to 72 clubs. These clubs included 4 Rotaract, 4 Interact and even 2 Earlyact clubs, the latter being for young children. She is concentrating the Region’s activities in the areas of family and domestic violence (co-ordinating with local police), mental health and disaster response. These activities will utilise the existing resources of RAWCS, ROMAC and Australian Rural Health (ARH). She nominated the Rotarians against malaria as her favourite service program.
She also sees the current focus on regionalisation is important in maximising the power of the currently falling membership numbers. She stressed that regionalisation will not affect the independence of the existing clubs but is meant as a pilot program designed to assist smaller clubs to maintain and increase the scope of their service activities by combining with other clubs in their district.
In closing she reminded members that the District Conference will be in Canberra on 20-22nd October and asked our support.
Gears and Beers briefing.
Phil Mcintosh gave members a detailed briefing on the activities and organisation planned for next Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
He circulated operations manuals for members to follow, both in the gardens and out on the roads, and reminded all that the police have the power to stop all activities if there is a breach of road rules.
Friday night will feature the AFL Grand Final pre-party. The actual AFL Grand Final will be broadcast from 2.50 pm in the Victory Gardens on Saturday and expects that Saturday evening will attract a big crowd. He is concerned about the forecast for 330C on Sunday for the main events, where over 2,000 riders are expected. He asked members to make every effort to make all visitors feel welcome and comfortable at all times and asked all members to wear their white polo shirts so they are easily identifiable.
He reminded members that Daylight Saving ends on Saturday night.
Paul Murray will be running a Zoom seminar on updating your Club Runner Details! The link will be sent ot to all members shortly.
If you are having trouble finding your way around the programme, this is for you. It will be live so you can ask questions etc as you go.
Another good turnout for the meeting this week. It is really great to see lots of members attending meetings and enjoying some fellowship. Thank you for coming.
A reminder for Michael Knight – TURN YOUR PHONE OFF SILENT!
A new and interesting proposal regarding the running of the Saturday Markets will go to the Future Innovations Committee and then the Board next week. More news to follow.
Confirming that the vocational visit to Borambola is Tuesday 10 October 12-2pm and will include a catered American BBQ lunch plus wine tasting for $35. Please come along for what will be an enjoyable afternoon with Tim and Naomi McMullen.
Don’t forget – our guest speaker on 29 August is Suzanne Westgate, NSW Property Development Manager with Transgrid. I suggest you being a guest/partner/friend to this meeting.
If there any members who would like to speak about a holiday, personal experience or a topic they are passionate about, please let me know and you can speak in the new MEMBERS NEWS session that will start next week (hopefully, if I get some takers!)
Finally, thanks to Kevin Watts for his excellent suggestion.
Darren was back in the chair and opened the meeting with grace and a salute to King Charles. No guests or visiting Rotarians for the day.
Darren gave us an update on events
Board meeting next Monday
The futures committee will meet tomorrow at 5.30. Only two members have confirmed attendance
Occasional visit to ‘Borambola Wines on Tuesday October 10. Planned to be an American style BBQ (whatever that means) and wine tasting
Dinner meeting (but not a meeting) at the Wagga Country Club on Wednesday, September 6 at 6.30 for 7 . Presumably there will no meeting on Tuesday September 5. Will need definite bookings. Wait for Invitation!
The Saturday market committee met and came up with some suggested variations for the Saturday markets. Board will consider and then report to Club
Rotaract Trivia night on 23 September
Daz gave us an interpretation of the phone rules. You can have yours on as long as it does not make a “noise
Market Report 12th August 2023
With a cold start to the day we took a little bit to get going, With all of the members working to their ability the markets were set up on time, a few market stall swaps were required for power and placement, and a couple on marketeers arrived but were not on the list a call to Steve Anderson had these sorted out.
It needs to be noted that as the years roll on members are getting older and the work required to setup and pack down the markets may not be in safely with in the abilities of some of the members
The Takings:
Stalls $1900
Gate $425.30
BBQ $378.53 --Takings $598.00 Cost $219.47—
Total $2703.83
Of Interest:
To continue the theme of Coins of the world from last market report, if any member is planning a golfing trip to Chile I have a 100 Pesos coin for a place marker that was deposited in the Gates donations.
The manual needs to be updated, there were no instructions on the bank or details, I have got a new deposit book and written on the front the bank details for the community account to deposit the markets into.
The Team:
Steve McCoy (OIC) , Richard Baguley, David Byfield, John Ferguson, David Golland, Robert Hennessy Hawkes, Pat Ingram, Paul Murray, Wal Paton, Neil Pinto, David Stokes and Darren Wallace
We were a couple of members short which definitely made an impact on the day
A reminder to all OIC and BBQ supervisors that the eskys must be empty of any food and put in fridge in shed.
HOWLONG GOLF TRIP
Neil reported that 13 members and friends attended the trip to Howlong. 11 Members played in the comp on Thursday. Mark Hillis was absent from the meeting as a fine was ensuing. When the boys played a three par and Mark picked up the disc on the green marked “NTP” thinking ii was some joke played by Neil Pinto, only to realise some time later that NTP means “nearest the pin” and was part of the Howlong Golf Club competition. Oops! David Benn played a blinder and paid a fine appropriate
A fine meal in Rutherglen and a further 9 holes on Friday before returning home to Wagga. A good time had by all. A big thanks to Neil Schirmer for organizing.
LEGACY WEEK
Doug Conkey was representing Legacy and the annual weekly fund raising is on commencing Saturday August 26. Legacy will have stalls in shopping centres and would like assistance from Rotarians. Please contact Doug Conkey if you can help. 0400 909 992
THE GRAFTON CURSE
Doug Sutton let us know that John Flynn's, up to now faithful Jeep, had a break down in Nth NSW last week and had to be flat topped into Grafton. Deferred his trip by a few weeks with a bearing problem. Flynney said all praise to NRMA
GEARS AND BEERS
Phil and three others went to Coolamon on Monday and the Coolamon Rotary are all organised for the event. They have also arranged for one ride to traverse through a farm where there will be multiple fat lambs grazing. The vegetarians will diverted
Phil also reminded us the importance of Coolamon is the whole event and this year they have a large area to cover. Well done to Coolamon.
It was great to see a strong turnout at the meeting today...but I fear it may be because you all thought the IPP Phil was running the meeting again!!
It was great to hear from Garth Perkin, member of Coolamon Club and Assistant District Governor for our zone, with some wonderful recollections of his experiences as an almost-eye-surgeon in India. Garth will be back later in the year with a presentation covering his experiences on the Larapinta Trail in the NT.
FYI, our guest speaker on 29 August will be Suzanne Westgate, Manager of Land and Property Approvals at Transgrid. Suzanne will be speaking about Transgrid's transition to renewables, their Charles Sturt University Project and possible funding support opportunities with Rotary.
Well done to the members and partners/friends going on the golf trip this Thursday & Friday. Thank you for supporting this event. There will be plenty of other social events and short trips later in the Rotary year. Thanks must go to Neil Schirma for his organisational prowess.
The vocational visit to Borambola Winery is now scheduled for Tuesday 10th September from 12 until 2pm. There will be nibbles and wine tasting plus a catered lunch provided. Cost to be confirmed shortly. An email will go out to confirm attendance for catering purposes.
The first evening meeting and combined social dinner will be on Tuesday 5 September at the Wagga Country Club. Details will be sent out via email and we will need RSVPs for the booking.
Please consider attending the Rotaract Trivia night on 23 September. Details to follow.
President Darren opened the meeting with a reflection of thanksgiving and the proposed a toast tot he People Of Australia. He welcomed our Guest Speaker Garth Perkins and invited members to enjoy some Fellowship.
David Benn, ever helpful to others, informed members that one of his neighbours, Bernie Benson, is selling's house and doing so privately. If anyone is interested in this house sale, which is located in Thorne St. you can contact David for more details.
JUNEE ROTARY CLUB 26TH AUGUST
John Egan brought to our attention that the guest speaker at the above meeting will be Ken Hunt who climbed Mt Everest and descended in a hang glider. Should be very interesting.
President Darren then gave us list of future events:
Borambola Vocational Visit. 10th October wine tasting an nibbles followed by a meal for $30 per head.
Erin Earth Vocational Visit and barbecue in November.
Evening Club meeting at the Country Club on 5th September. Please bring your partner. $55 per head (?)
Rotaract Trivia 23rd September.
Relay For Life November.
GOLF TRIP TO HOWLONG
Minister for recreation Neil Schirmer announced that there will be ten golfers for Thursday at 12 noon. A further round will be played Friday morning. Dinner at Tulieres Rutherglen will be had on Thursday evening. Reports next week.
WHY YOU NEED GOOD INSURANCE
Doug Sutton reported on his recent trip to Brisbane, caravan in tow. Kay and Doug visited family and friends along the way at Shell Harbour, Camden, Newcastle, Old Barr and Woolgoolga. Just north of Grafton, while on a pit stop the Amarok ute refused to start. A failed starter motor was diagnosed by an NRMA serviceman who arranged for a tow to the nearest repair facility. This happened to be Mt Gravatt Volkswagen, a suburb of Brisbane. The pictures above tell a thousand words. The ute was repaired under warranty and the NRMA roadside assist platinum covered the cost of towing. Apart from a little inconvenience the breakdown cost nothing and in fact we saved the fuel we would have used had we driven ourselves to Brisbane. Other members reported similar experiences.
President Darren introduced our guest speaker Garth Perkins. Garth has been President of Coolamon Rotary Club twice, is still an active member and has been involved in some amazing projects which he is going to speak about. He is a Rotary Assistant Governor. He has been to Nepal, Cambodia and India with Rotary and has recently walked the Larapinta Trail in Central Australia to raise $27,000 for Shelter Box In his spare time he is a Councillor on Coolamon Shire Council and sings with the Rugby Choir.
Garth began with the words: How good is Rotary! But then he posed the question: How relevant do you feel as a Rotarian? He then went on to tell us what has inspired him in his Rotary Vocation.
In 2013, after being declared legally blind, the result of years of dust and hay in his eyes from farming, he went to visit Alok Sharma, Rotarian and Eye Surgeon. Over lunch Alok advised him that he required cataract removal. Once he had the operation Garth was invited to go to India with Alok on one of his regular trips to his native country, where he did cataract operations for the poor. Prior to the Indian Trip, Garth helped to raise $72.000 in one night to fund the Rotary sponsored enterprise.
Garth was blown away by what he saw and witnessed in India. With his team, Garth included, Alok assessed 2,500 people for eye surgery and 370 people had operations to remove cataracts and insert a lense, enabling the recipient to see clearly for the first time in many years.
The surgery was done in conditions that would horrify us here in Australia, but the surgeries were successful. Garth was even asked to assist by inserting anaesthetic needles into the back of the eye. (Shudders around the room). He also had the task of removing eye patches after a day or two.
Toward the end Garth decided to go and say goodbye to a number of the patients who had come along with members of their families. Garth was alarmed when an old man dropped to his knees in front of Garth and then prostrated himself and began crawling toward Garth mumbling in his language. Garth asked one of the team what is he saying? To which they replied he thinks you are a god! This was an extremely emotional moment for Garth. How can it be, he asked, that for the sake of a $25 surgery cost he could be regarded as someone who had the power to restore sight!
This Garth told us, is the power of Rotary and an example of how much good that can be done with energy and organisation.
Our Club veteran Peter Crozier shared his story of going to India on another occasion with Alok and how rewarding it was to see the outcome of this wonderful Rotary Project.
Darren gave a vote of thanks to Garth and presented him with a bottle of Olive Oil as a token of appreciation for his very enlightening talk.
Past President Phil Burgess filled in for Darren who has slipped off to the snow. Opened the meeting with grace and a salute to King Charles.
Guest of David Benn was 1st cousin John Dunk
Phil confirmed that the $2000 to the South Wagga Club is to put a roof over the container at Willans Hill.
Any payments to RAWCS this year will attract an administration fee of 5%. That is concessional as other organisations charge substantially more than that, i.e, Shelter Boxes were up to 35%. The 5% is for all payments up to $500K. Donations exceeding $500K will attract a fee of 4.5%. Good luck getting a single donation of that magnitude!
Occasional Visit. Preso Darren has organized a visit to Borambola Wines on 26 September. Tim McMullen suggested that you would need two hours to get there, enjoy the experience and travel home. After some discussion it was suggested that the date be changed to another date as that meeting date is immediately before the Gears & Beers weekend where we would get the final briefing before the event. Over to Dazza and Tim for an amendment.
Rotaract are having a trivia night on 23 September. No details as to the venue. More details at a later date.
Centenary Legacy torch Relay
Doug Conkey, Legacy President, let us have information about the relay on this Thursday August 3. This is commemorating 100 years of Legacy. This is the Legacy relay encompassing all 44 Legacy Clubs throughout Australia. The 28 participants will carry the torch in the Wagga Wagga leg and will terminate at Legacy House in Thompson Street at about 10.30 to 11am Doug will carry the final leg of the relay and light the cauldron. The relay commenced in Pozieres in France on 23 April 2023 and will complete the journey in Melbourne on 13 October 2023. Very good promotion for Legacy.
The working bee set down for this Thursday at the container at the Myer car park has been postponed until a future date.
The Club budgets have been sent to members by James Hamilton. The Club and Community budgets were displayed on the overhead and James went through the budgets. All seemed in good order and a couple of questions and statements were made.
Moved James Hamilton that the Club budget be approved
Sec Paul Murray. All agreed
Moved Phil McIntosh, that the Community budget be approved
sec Stewart Heriot .All agreed
Gears & Beers Budget
Phil McIntosh presented the Gears & Beers budget which showed a profit of about $100K after distribution to other assisting organisations of about $22K. The registrations are down on the pre covid numbers
Past President Phil then displayed the Club Vision, Mission and Vaule staements. They were all presented as motions.
Vision Statement
Moved Phil McIntosh, Sec Stuart Heriot.Passed
Mission statement
Moved Adrian Whiting, Sec Rick Priest. Passed
Values
Moved Rick Priest, sec Paul Murray. Passed
Members draw was won by Phil McIntosh
And now for a little brain twister.
Testing for Grey Cells…
1 Johnny's mother had three children. The first child was named April. The second child was named May. What was the third child's name?
2 There is a clerk at the butcher shop, he is five feet ten inches tall and he wears size 13 sneakers. What does he weigh?
3 Before Mt. Everest was discovered, what was the highest mountain in the world?
4 How much dirt is there in a hole... that measures two feet by three feet by four feet?
5 What word in the English Language... is always spelled incorrectly?
6 Billy was born on December 28th, yet his birthday is always in the summer. How is this possible?
7 In California, you cannot take a picture of a man with a wooden leg. Why not?
8 What was the President's Name...in 1975?
9 If you were running a race, and you passed the person in 2nd place, what place would you be in now?
10. Which is correct to say, "The yolk of the egg are white" or "The yolk of the egg is white"?
Here are the Answers: (No peeking!)
1 Johnny's mother had three children. The first child was named April. The second child was named May. What was the third child's name? Answer: Johnny, of course.
2 There is a clerk at the butcher shop, he is five feet ten inches tall, and he wears size 13 sneakers. What does he weigh?
Answer: Meat.
3 Before Mt. Everest was discovered, what was the highest mountain in the world?
Answer: Mt. Everest; it just wasn't discovered yet. [You're not very good at this are you?] 4 How much dirt is there in a hole that measures two feet by three feet by four feet?
Answer: There is no dirt in a hole.
5 What word in the English Language is always spelled incorrectly?
Answer: Incorrectly
6 Billy was born on December 28th, yet his birthday is always in the summer. How is this possible?
Answer: Billy lives in the Southern Hemisphere.
7 In California, you cannot take a picture of a man with a wooden leg. Why not?
Answer: You can't take pictures with a wooden leg. You need a camera to take pictures.
8 What was the President's Name in 1975?
Answer: Same as is it now – Donald Trump [Oh, come on]
9 If you were running a race, and you passed the person in 2nd place, what place would you be in now?
Answer: You would be in 2nd. Well, you passed the person in second place, not first.
10. Which is correct to say, "The yolk of the egg are white" or "The yolk of the egg is white"?
Answer: Neither, the yolk of the egg is yellow [Duh)
Today our guest speaker was Inspector Jillian Gibson from The Wagga Police Command. She was welcomed by President Phil and introduced by PP. Geoff Breust who told us that Jillian was here to talk about scams. She is passionate about this subject and hopes to educate the community to their dangers and how to detect and avoid being scammed. He also told us that Jillian was on a crutch as the result of the pursuit of a criminal in a commando style chase. Jillian, however, gave a much more mundane reason, her knee popped when she was kneeling for shooting practice.
Jillian said "I have had 21 years with the NSW Police and have had a variety of roles across metro and regional locations. After tipping my hat at Detectives and General DutiesI became a licensing sergeant in Liverpool where I was lucky enough to be awarded a scholarship in 2014 to work overseas and explore crime prevention techniques with US and UK Police Services. I am a Temora girl and my roots were still in the Riverina so I have brought my husband and kids back. I love the excitement of the Police and the unknown, but most of all I love working in the community and talking with people. The Scams talk came about after we identified that Seniors were the most vulnerable to scams and needed the confidence boost to turn around and tell the people on the phone: NO!"
Jillian's style of delivery involved audience participation, so many members offered examples of scams and asked questions. Almost all have received scam telephone calls, text messages and emails. In the last twelve months Australians lost $568 million to scammers. The elderly made up a large proportion of those scammed. 58 Percent of those scammed are males.
Top scams for the year are phishing, email and phone scams. Romance scams target single older people. One person in the Riverina lost $340,000 to a romance scam.
Teenagers are the main target of sexting scams where a "supposed friend" on a site such as minecraft asks to exchange intimate photos. When the "friend" obtains the photo he/she then blackmails the victim for money, threatening to expose the photo on the internet to friends and family if not paid.
Receiving a text or call from a legitimate number is not always a guarantee that the caller is legitimate. Spoofing, where an app is used to mimic a phone call from a legitimate number to con a victim into responding to what appears to be legitimate connection.
If you are scammed first call your bank and second call police!
Jillian provided members with a booklet published by the ACCC called The Little Black Book Of Scams. It has some very useful information as well as tips on how to avoid being scammed. You can also go to the web site for the same information at www.scamwatch.gov.au
President Phil thanked Jillian for her interesting and helpful talk. Anyone who has any concerns can feel very comfortable contacting Jillian for assistance. Members gave our guest speaker enthusiastic applause.
Good to see Peter Crozier and Peter Mackinnon back on deck after their respective surgeries. Mac Armitage and Robert Hennessy-Hawks are recovering after falls. Get well soon fellows.
The changeover dinner is fast approaching. Tuesday June 27th at the RSL Club Mirage room, 6:30pm for 7:00pm start. The price for members and partners has been subsidised by the Club to $40.00 per head.
Secretary Peter has circularised invitations to all. Please RSVP by Friday the 16th of June.
President-elect Darren has finalised the Executive and Board for the 2023 – 2024 year and is working on the finalisation of the committees.
The first meeting of the Future Development Committee was held on Monday night. President-elect Darren Wallace has been appointed as the chair of the Committee. It is planned to meet on a weekly basis in the immediate term to determine strategies early for the way forward. All recommendations from the Committee will be passed to the Board, and Club members will have the final vote on any proposed change.
Well done to ErinEarth for being awarded the 2023 NSW Environmental Citizen of the Year Award. Members may recall that the Club presented PHF Certificates and Pins to Sisters, Carmel Wallis and Kaye Bryan in recognition of the sterling work that they contributed to this organization.
I was also advised at the Combined Wagga President’s meeting last night, that the Wagga Wagga Rotary RYDA committee received the Toyota Community Award, celebrating Excellence in Road Safety. Well done.
President Phil opened our meeting with a reflection and a toast to the King and the People of Australaia. He then welcomed our visitors: Guest Speaker Inspector Jillian Gibson, Superintendent Andrew Spliet, Ray Palmer and Past President of our Club Kevin Watts.
Superintendent of Wagga Police Command , Andrew Spliet, came to support guest speaker Inspector Jillian Gibson.
John Gray invited an old friend Ray Palmer to our meeting.
PP Kevin Watts whose wife Lyndal passed away recently, is hosted by twin inductee to Wollundry, John Smith
ERIN EARTH AWARD
Darren Wallace shared the good news that Erin Earth has won the NSW environmental Citizen of The Year Award. Srs. Kay and Carmel who founded Erin Earth, were our guest speakers two meetings ago. Their talk is featured on our web page: www.wollundryrotary.org.au
ATTENDANCE AND APOLOGIES
Thirty One members attended today's meeting. Apologies were received from:
Mac Armytage, Craig Bromley, Ken Cook, John Egan, James Hamilton, Robert Hennessy-Hawks, Mark Hillis, David Hodge, Chris Kelly, Phil McIntosh, Tim McMullen, Rob Pearson, Neil Shirmer, Adrian Whiting, Bob Willis.
WINNER OF THE DRAW PRIZE
This week it was Doug Conkey who won on the second draw.
President Phil opened the meeting with grace and a salute to King Charlie
Phil also reported that Peter Crozier, having had successful heart surgery, will be out of Hospital tomorrow and home in a few days, probably at the meeting next week. We had three guests at our meeting. One was guest speaker Jenny McKenzie, former member Kevin Watts and "Past District Everything in Rotary" from Merimbula Club, Noel Trevaskis.
Phil confirmed that the District budget was passed at a Zoom meeting on the weekend.
Guest speaker
Geoff Breust welcomed Jenny McKenzie, a palliative care nurse who works for Greater Murray healt District. Jenny trained as a nurse and after many years, specialised in Palliative care nurse. The previous week the Wagga City Council organised a successful forum at the Civic Theatre focusing on Palliative Care.
Jenny is an eloquent speaker who, hailing from Corowa, having trained in Melbourne and, through circumstances dealing with a patient with terminal cancer, decided that the area of palliatice care was the way forward for her. Having experienced seeing patients in oncology, not only suffer from cancer, but have very unpleasant experiences at the “end of life”, Jenny saw a need for better care at that stage. Jenny worked in the UK and completed her palliative care training in that country before returning to Oz to pursue that career. The problem was there were no specialist nurses in Wagga so Jenny registered a “Nurse practitioner” giving her the option to prescribe drugs to suit the particular circumstances, working closely with the medical professionals.
She is passionate about her career choice and also works closely with two FIFO VMO specialists working in the Wagga Health District. The funding has improved so that palliative nurses are now located in the remoter areas of District. The dedicated attention to patients needs is very evident so that patients can better plan so that stress is reduced with, not just medical, but a variety of other factors that can play out at this very difficult time. Jenny gave some examples of people who loved Christmas so that you can celebrate Christmas at any time of the year that suits.
The overriding part of treatment was to work with families and establish a plan that best suits the patient and family, to be host with both.
A big thanks to Jenny for addressing a confronting subject, explaining the process and so professionally delivered.
A Special Note to members.
Romano’s have advised the Club that a room hire fee will apply in the future at a rate of $200 per month. That will include all subcommittee meetings.
Sargeant report.
We did not have a Sargeant today so Noel Trevaskis (a bloody good Rotarian) helped us out delivering a story about our own Mac Armitage. If we thought Mac might have been a bit of a rogue, Noel confirmed it. Mac and Noel grew up in Finley and Mac (only about 10) and his brother decided that they would pilfer a couple of water and rock melons from the Italian neighbour farm. Little did they know that on their retreat to home armed with the melons, the farmer was also armed with a shotgun. The resulting shot scared the living daylights out of the boys. They dropped the stolen goods and scuppered home, only to be invited the next day to share in the excess melons from the neighbour harvest. Frank Fuller was not consulted on the best outcome for the Armitage boys, but probably would have congratulated them and told them to learn to run a bit faster.
Late news:
It has come to notice that Wal Paton is in Hospital and has been flown to Sydney for a pace maker to be inserted. We wish Wal good health.
Late late news:
Wal is over the op, and headed home Friday(tomorrow) Alls well!.
" Got banned from the National Park last week.
Used to line up the squirrels in order of height each week.
Seems the rangers were fed up with my constant critter sizing"
Sister Kaye Bryan and Sister Carmel Wallace were named Paul Harris Fellows for their outstanding work as creators of Erin Earth. They are pictured with President of Wollundry Rotary, Phil Burgess and Kathy Wallace.
President Phil said that a Paul Harris Fellow award is the highest honour that can be granted by the International Rotary Foundation. It is an honour reserved for those who have met the ideals of Rotary: Service to others; Promotion of Integrity and Advancement of World understanding, Goodwill and Peace.
The ideals of Erin earth are entirely consistent with Rotary Ideals and the work of Erin Earth, and the Sisters, is an outstanding example of these ideals in practice. An honour truly well deserved.
President Phil opened our meeting with a toast to the King and the People of Australia. He then welcomed our guests: Sister Kaye Bryan, Sister Carmel Wallace, Kathy Wallace, Mel Bradley, Kirsty Cole and Michelle Burton.
He then called on Kathy Wallace to introduce our guest speakers Kaye and Carmel.
(see story above)
CSU SCHOLARSHIP
Peter Green, scholarship chair, said that the scholarship has been in existence for 31 years and it is time for a review. This year there was no scholarship granted although there were three outstanding candidates. These candidates had been awarded other scholarships and it is CSU's policy that candidates are only permitted one scholarship. Peter said that his committee would meet and make recommendations to the New Board in relation to the scholarship program.
PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
John Egan reported that he has received 217 entries, more than a 100 percent increase over the previous competition.
Entries will be displayed at 70 Fitzmaurice St, following the opening of the exhibition. This will be on:
FRIDAY 12TH MAY, COMMENCING AT 7 P.M.
Every one is invited but you must send and RSVP by 9th May to johnandmariaegan@gmail.com for catering purposes.
ROTARY YOUTH DRIVER AWARENESS (RYDA)
Doug Sutton reminded volunteers that his event is on next week and our day of rostered duty is Thursday 11th May
Frank Fuller has kindly offered to help in place of John Egan who is involved with the photographic exhibition on the same day.
Those Rostered for the day are: Doug Sutton (Coordinator for the day). David Benn, Frank Fuller, David Golland, Stuart Heriot, Bill Parker and James Ross.
Please be at the Kyeamba Smith Hall, Wagga Showground, at 9 am on Thursday 11th May. Your duties will be to escort a group of year 11 students to each lecture. Duties will finish by 2.30 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
Presentation Sisters Kaye Bryan (Left) and Carmel Wallace (right) spoke to us about the Erin Earth Project. Kathy Wallace (second from Left) a volunteer at Erin Earth introduced the two speakers. Michelle Burton, Kirsty Cole, and Melanie Bradley, employees of Erin Earth accompanied the Sisters.
Kathy said:
"It is my great pleasure to introduce the two extraordinary women who founded ErinEarth, 25 years ago. These women were active in the environmental space long before Greta – they were ahead of their time!
Many Wollundry Rotary members would be familiar with ErinEarth.
Vocational visit about 4 -5 years about
Funded - the solar pump for the watering system and the AED
ErinEarth garden is a half hectare native woodland located in urban Turvey Park. ErinEarth is a community and place for connecting with nature, demonstrating sustainable living, and caring for Country. It is a thriving hub of biodiversity but when I was a teenager in the 80’s padding around Mt Erin and Trinity schools, the area behind the convent was a bleak looking space of decommissioned asphalt tennis courts and a tip.
Carmel Wallis and Kaye Bryan are members of the dynamic Presentation Sisters of Wagga Wagga congregation and are here today to share the ErinEarth story, celebrating 25 years since the project began."
Sr Carmel Wallace then told us of the early days of Erin Earth and the influences that informed her mind about the ecology. The sinking of The Rainbow Warrior, a ship belonging to Greenpeace, in Auckland Harbour by agents of the French Government, was a huge shock for Carmel. That a European country like France could take such criminal activity against a group trying to protect the environment had seemed incredible.
Secondly Carmel attended a climate change conference in the late nineties and this opened her mind to an issue about which she had been largely unaware. Thirdly her Catholic framework influenced by Pope John Paul 11who invited religious leaders of all faiths to a meeting in Assisi, Italy to discuss a Christian response to the Climate Crisis facing the world.
Carmel completed a perma culture design certificate and a living sustainable workshop in Drummoyne which helped her to see the need to educate and lead people to relearn the basic skills of growing vegetables, protecting the environment and respecting nature. She said that poverty and environmental degradation go hand in hand.
Carmel and Kaye thought that they might be able to do something with the old Mt Erin Tennis courts which were degraded. They had a dream to try and put into practice what they had learned. They turned to others for help including then Mayor Peter Dale, Shaun McGee and Jim Webb and about 32 other who became meters and mates. Fund raising dinners and volunteer worked got the project underway. Mick Mullins was extremely helpful with his earth moving equipment, while Barters brought a semi load of chook manure including a number of dead chooks!
Sister Kaye Bryan
I would like to start with some words from your own website: “The magic of Rotary is that it allows ordinary people to achieve the most extraordinary things.”
That’s what I feel like when I look at ErinEarth today. 25 years ago, there we were, Carmel and I, two 55 year old women with backgrounds mainly as school teachers. However, like you here we are part of a group that puts its resources (people and finance) into works and projects that contribute to enhancing life.
When I experience ErinEarth today I feel as though I’ve helped bring something to birth that is vibrant, flourishing, bringing life and addressing important issues of our times.
Let me describe EE in part. The beauty of the garden surprises many as they step in from Kildare St. People find it can engender a sense of peace. As you wander around you can learn everything from a 13.7 billion year story of the Universe to how you can grow vegies and water wise native plants in your own backyard.
I’d like to share two of the current Strategic Directions of ErinEarth. They are so aligned with the original intent that it is like the baby of 25 years has grown into a wonderful adult.
The first is this: We model, support, and contribute to Earth awareness and ecological justice in our local community and beyond. Outcomes: That EE is known as a place that promotes ecological justice: that is, a right relationship between people, plants, animals, soil, water and air. Second outcome: People understand Earth’s crises and the importance of adopting sustainable living practices.
Second direction is that of demonstrating sustainable living to our local community. An outcome: EE is well known and recognized as a place (among others) that demonstrates and educates about sustainable living to the local community.
Who is bringing this about? Four wonderful staff – 2 Co-Managers one covering education and strategic planning and the other finance and operations; 1 garden manager and 1 administration and communications officer. Their hours of work amount to the full time equivalent of three staff members.
And the volunteers: About 35 currently, including weekly garden volunteers, board directors, those helping with school groups, those conducting the monthly SoulSpace Saturdays, the weekly weaving group and co-ordination of the catering for events.
EE is open to drop in visitors on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9am-3pm. This year 258 visitors have dropped into the garden. This includes Wednesday visits from the Leisure Company and 2 different home-schooling groups.
Some of this year’s activities:
A very successful Open Day on 1st April. 235 adults and 111 children attended. Lots of wonderful feedback. ……lots of native plant learning, lots of new learning, enough to inspire many who said they would apply any sustainable living ideas at home or in their workplace; staff helpful and visitors loved the atmosphere;
Schools this year: Three schools with pre-school children – nature based programs and helping them establish vegie gardens.
Four primary schools, one of which had 12 children from high risk/trauma situations. These children came fortnightly to ErinEarth for four sessions of a Nurture Through Nature program and EE staff went to their school once. Feedback from teachers: The students developed a sense of peace and appreciation for themselves and nature. All the students selected for the program are facing personal challenges and it was great to give them some time out. When surveyed the students loved the beautiful learning spaces and staff.
Two Secondary schools brought their Year 7 students as part of their Introductory Day. 150 and 180 students.
Outreach and partnerships: EE has joined the Institute of Company Directors Australia, an association specifically set up to support Not For Profit boards.
Page 3 of Co-Managers’ report: Start with Michelle (EE Communications person) who has been invited and attended breakfast meetings of the Wagga BNI group (Business Networking) and has delivered guest speaker presentations on two occasions.
Supporting the development of a nature playspace/bush garden on a reserve adjacent to Amy Hurd Early Learning Centre.
Engagement with Junee Correctional Centre, with furniture to be made by inmates for ErinEarth garden.
Meeting with Community Corrections to recommence as a site for community service work.
Meeting with TAFE re potential new Yazidi/Nepalese/Burmese volunteers. Twenty students completing their Certificate 3 in English, invited to ErinEarth for morning tea on 8th May.
A vote of thanks was given by President Phil and an impromptu one by Mark Hillis, both of which were enthusiastically supported by a very attentive audience of members.
The Wollundry Team cooking for Lillier Lodge last Wednesday evening. Michael praying that the food will be liked>
I caught up with PP John Flockton in Mossvale last Saturday. John, a past president of Wollundry, is now retired and enjoying Mossvale. His golfing has been curbed temporarily while he recovers from shoulder operation. John informs me that ha has recently joined the Rotary Club of Mossvale and is already involved heavily with their fund raising projects.
Kay Sutton, Ros Breust, Geoff Breust, Nola Pinto, Neil Pinto, Doug Conkey, Wendy Conkey, share the warmth of the fire pit at Suttons for the Rotary Meal Deal on Tuesday night.
Our Meeting today was a Club Assembly so there were no visitors. President Phil opened the meeting in the usual manner and presented his report which included a report on the previous night's Board Meeting and some donation resolutions which are reported in Phil's report above.
It was decided after investigation by D. Pyke and J Hamilton, to divert $25,000 from Shelterbox to RAWCS split between assistance to Ukraine and Syria/Turkey. Pat Ingram thanked those two members for their further investigation on administration costs by Shelter Box which are far higher than RAWCS. He said the Projects committee are more than comfortable with the decision.
May and June Board meetings will be combined meeting of the present Board and next year's Board.
CONDOLENCE
On behalf of the Members President Phil wished condolence to Judy Dunning (Life Partner of John Smith) whose father died last evening. He was 91 years old and had been in ill health for some time. Judy's mother is of similar age and lives at home with some assistance from Judy.
NEW BOARD FOR 23/24
Darren Wallace President for next Rotary Year, announced some of his new Board members with further announcements to come. So far the New Board will comprise Darren, PP Phil Burgess, Peter MacKinnon, Peter Whilesmith, Peter Clucas, David Post, Phil McIntosh, Doug Sutton. Darren indicated that he will run a respectful club with particular attention to mobile phone etiquette. New Board responsibilities will reflect the issues that arose from our Club discussions on changing club culture.
Bill Parker alerted members to the above exhibition from 21st to 23rd April.
CHORAL CONCERT FOR OPENING OF NEW CONSERVATORIUM BUILDING.
Murrumbidgee Magic and Wagga Male Rugby Choir will be performing. Get in early!
100 YEARS OF LEGACY
Doug Conkey, President of Wagga Legacy, is encouraging members to come to the above five star film to raise funds for Legacy. The organisation which began 100 years ago to fulfil a promise to WW1 soldiers that their widows and children would be cared for, has operated continuously since. Volunteers assist widows and orphans from all wars and is most worthy of your support. Get your tickets from Doug or Legacy House.
To celebrate 100 years of Legacy there will be a torch relay that commences on 23rd April visiting London, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin and the East Coast. The relay will arrive in Wagga on 3rd August where Doug will be the last runner in Wagga and will light a Cauldron. Doug is asking for volunteers to assist with the Wagga Relay.
BON VOYAGE PHIL MCINTOSH
Phil and wife Lynette are off to Italy for an exciting holiday but meanwhile he has tasked David Byfield with supervising the decluttering of the Storage Container in the Myer car park. The container itself requires repair and Mark Hillis has volunteered to assist. The men's shed which has a welding shop may also be a source of assistance.
Phil thanked the Gears and Beers Committee Members for their commitment and enthusiasm. He said our event will have a presence at the Beechworth Granite Classic and hopefully will attract more riders from that event to attend our festival. Next meeting of the Gears and Beers Committee will be in July.
FOUNDATION DIRECTORS REPORT
Director John Egan spoke about his portfolio, the Rotary Foundation and Australian Rotary Heath. The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charity. It is supported by all clubs and has accumulated a vast sum of $1.2 billion US. The money is used for the betterment of people's lives the world over. One of the major expenses is the Portfolio Plus campaign which costs hundreds of millions of dollars. The Rotary Foundation distributes funds through local clubs via District and Global Grants. Our Club, Wollundry, has participated in a number of such grants including grants to Cambodia and a Global Grant of approx $US 40,000 to assist widows and orphans of the ongoing war in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Our Club has also given approx. $40,000 toward a scholarship to research Melanoma Cancer. This was to both honour our late member Gordon Braid who succumbed to Melanoma and to assist with the discovery of new treatments.
CURRY NIGHT 11th May
Neil Pinto is organising another of his popular curry nights. Keep alert for more info.
President Phil took the chair and welcomed David Milne who was the guest of Phil Macintosh. As well we had a visit from Robert Shaw and his wife Judith. Robert is taking the role of Membership Director at District level.
He then proceeded to our Guest Speaker, calling on Geoff Breust for his introduction.
Scientist Tom Torento came to us via video link. This was set up by PP Paul Murray who, using his phone as a hotspot was able to bring our guest into the room, with great clarity and sound.
Tom is working with research company, Vow, based in the United States that is developing artificial meat products.
You will remember the Mammoth Meat Balls in the news recently. They are part of the programme, but a gimmick rather than economic reality
There were some interesting and disturbing statistics that came forward. Agriculture takes nearly 40% of habitable land on earth, and with it 30% of fresh water, and of course 40% of emissions. Agriculture could take all the available potable water by the year 2060!! All of this as demand for meat protein triples over the next 30 years.
Tom, who is a local Riverina man with multiple academic achievements in science and engineering, became fascinated by the possibilities offered when he began developing vitamins from seaweed and algae.
He doesn't see his Cultured Meat as a direct competitor to natural herds at the moment. Currently this CM is only available commercially in Singapore at immense price differentials, and feels it will take years to bring the price anywhere near $10 per kilo, comparable with current prices.
Tom however sees a great future for this process in Australia, as we have the right resources in abundance..animal stocks, fermentation ingredients and sunshine. All of this provides the biopsy needed, the amino acids and other chemistry essentials, and unlimited power.
There were some thoughtful questions from the floor.
Taste? Depends on the inputs. Can we culture organ such as livers? Not on the horizon at the moment. Animal Stock choice? The problem is one of animal ethics at the moment. Business Opportunities? Will be vast but there are still ethical roadblocks.
A very successful presentation, warmly applauded by all members.
At this point, President Phil called on Robert Shaw for a brief input. A very enthusiastic Robert told us of his aims to get clubs going. He sees retention as the main issue, not so much attracting members but keeping them. Using technology to get speakers such as today is one method, even targeting and matching speakers with prospective members. Perhaps we could just invite people to a service project, rather than a meeting. All good ideas. It should be an interesting year.
PP David Pyke called on members who were attending Lillier Lodge this week. Doug Sutton is out of action at the moment and he is taking the role of coordinator.
The Photo Competition is proceding steadily at the moment. We have around 55 entries paid with an anticipated rush as the school holidays end.
The Market Report
OIC: John Ferguson
Crew: Peter Green, Rick Priest, Mark Hillis, Peter Crozier, Col Duff, Steve McCoy, John Gray, Phil Burgess, David Byfield, Pat Ingram, Bill Parker, Wal Paton.
Takings: BBQ $343.00 Stalls $365.00 Gate $272.00
Total Banked $980.00
Comments: 4.30am wake up text from Steve Anderson with a revised plan of the stall holders for the market. Really appreciated Steve!!!!!!
The crew drifted in and were greeted by a surprisingly dry Wollundry Lagoon grassed area. With only 10 stallholders the set up was completed in record time and pressure was put on Wal to fire up the eggs & bacons. A number of stallholders had been contacted by the convener of the Lake Albert markets and decided to change venue. A bit unfortunate for Wollundry as Lake Albert had already run a market last weekend!
The Cycling Without Age organisation displayed their machine and gave out Easter eggs to the crowd. It is heartening to hear that the cycle Wollundry contributed to has been a huge success with bookings far in advance from what was anticipated.
The weather remained fine but with occasional wind gusts meaning the tents had to be pegged. A sizeable crowd attended the market and stallholders appeared to be reasonably satisfied. However, in consultation with the crew we decided to drop the site fee back to $40.00 which was appreciated by all.
Senior chef, Wal did his usual sterling service, ably assisted by his apprentice Bill. The day concluded with fellowship and drinks in the sheltered area from the wind on the car park.
Apologies this week.
Doug Conkey, Ken Cook, Frank Fuller, Gerry Gerlach, John Gray, Stuart Heriot, John Ireland, Malcolm Robertson, Ken Sargeant, Jonty Shuter.
Makeups: Phil Burgess, David Byfield, Peter Crozier, Col Duff, John Gray, Peter green, Mark Hillis, Pat Ingram, Steve McCoy, Bill Parker, Wal Paton, Neil Pinto, Rick Priest, Neil Schirmer.
DISTRICT 9705 ANNUAL CONFERENCE
20-22 OCTOBER 2023
WE HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US AT THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL ROTARY DISTRICT 9705 CONFERENCE AT THE BICENTENNIAL HALL IN BEAUTIFUL QUEANBEYAN
Firstly, a belated acknowledgement to Peter Green and his selection panel for once again organizing this year’s CSU scholarship candidates. My intention was to make mention of it at today’s meeting, however it slipped under my guard. Good work team, two worthy candidates will gain from your encouragement and decisions.
Another Food and Wine Festival under the belt. A good effort by the Committee, somewhat dampened by gate takings being down, and the inclement weather early in the evening.
Thank you to the members who volunteered to take up meal duties at Lilier Lodge next Wednesday evening. It is satisfying to support former Club member, Jim Gibson, and his wife Lynne in their ongoing efforts at the Lodge, catering for people who quite often live through trying circumstances while they are guests.
I would also like to acknowledge the members who are prepared to give up their Easter Saturday to work at the Saturday Markets this weekend. Hopefully it will be dry, however there is some rain forecast.
A call will come out after Easter for volunteers to be part of the committee to help determine our way forward as a Club. A lot of analysis, planning and research is needed to set the future direction for the Club.
ANZAC day the 25th falls on a Tuesday this year. There will not be a Rotary meeting that day.
This meeting was advertised as a Hillis day, but included quite a few presentations, which were preceded (announced?) by a persistent fire alarm asking us to leave the building.
Not to be deterred John Egan gave us an update on the coming Photography Competition, which has attracted enough sponsorship to cover the costs of the prizes and should therefore generate a surplus. It has been widely publicised on Facebook via District 9705 and the Australian Camera Club, with two entries already received, and 5 weeks to go until the closing date of May 13th. John then provided some tips on using the camera in the iPhone. It truly has become a camera that can be used as a phone!
FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL
David Byfield then spoke on his need for as many members as possible to help with the Food and Wine Festival next Saturday week. He asked all working members to be ready to begin work at 7.00 am on that morning. Adrian Whiting reported that he believed the Festival will be profitable, with 200+ tickets already sold. He thanked David Pike for organising a long list of sponsors.
The next committee meeting for the Food and Wine Festival will be held at Romano’s at 5.30 pm next Thursday, 16th March.
FARMERS MARKET
Sat Market TEAM REPORT
10-Mar-23
TEAM OIC
David Post
Market Chair
Stephen Anderson
TEAM MEMBER
Robert Hennessy Hawkes
TEAM MEMBER
Bill Parker
TEAM MEMBER
Doug Sutton
TEAM MEMBER
Doug Conkey
TEAM MEMBER
Frank Fuller
TEAM MEMBER
Ken Cook
TEAM MEMBER
David Benn
TEAM MEMBER
Stuart Heriot
TEAM MEMBER
David Foster
TEAM MEMBER
Peter Green
TEAM MEMBER
Paul Murray
TEAM MEMBER
Wal Paton
TEAM MEMBER
Greg Conkey
TOTALS (STALLS)
1,375.00
GATE COLLECTIONS
575.15
BBQ PROFIT
427.00
OTHER INCOME
TOTAL
LESS MUSIC & Voucher Prize
0.00
OTHER COSTS
$
Banking Completed - Confirmed Count
TOTAL BANKED
2,377.15
On a lighter note, Doug Sutton reported that he calculated that the average age of the 15 workers at the Saturday market was 76, falling to 72 if the three “youngsters” were included! Wollundry Rotary is extremely lucky to be able to access all that experience!
A feast after the market. Thanks Karen!
Chopping onions for the Barbecue, enough to make a grown man cry!
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
This was secret men's business so it wasn't clear who won. Was it Stuart Heriot or Phil McIntosh?
We were glad to see Cherie Benn at this meeting, along with a good number of members.
This meeting took the form of a BBQ at the new and excellent PCYC building at 11 Fitzhardinge St..
Mal Robertson and Wal Paton cooked lunch on the club BBQ.
Members were then shown around the PCYC building by Wayne and Troy from the PCYC. The building cost $24 million and includes a large room with four courts for basketball, netball and footsall, and other indoor sports. It also has rooms for dancing, gymnastics and fitness, and a large conference room which can seat more than 20 people. There is also a substantial underground car park for member’s use, which will improve access to these facilities.
In addition to sports there are social facilities for young people to meet after school, and the Club can also provide meals for needy children. This building is sure to be a valuable addition to the Wagga Community.
SPECIAL MEETING OUTCOME President Phil reported that Darren Wallace is collating the data from last week’s strategy meeting and will present his report after he returns from pedalling around Tasmania.
He also gave notice of a meeting for the Food and Wine Committee at Mike Knight’s apartment on Thursday at 5.30pm. Next week’s meeting will be a Hillis meeting, back at Romanos.
VISITORS
Cherie Benn
APOLOGIES
Geoff Breust, Ken Cook, Peter Crozier, Ward Gaiter, John Gray, Peter Green, David Hodge, Steve MCoy, Phil McIntosh, Robert Pearson, Neil Schirmer, Jonty Shuter, John Smith
Beautiful summer day which warmed up rapidly by pack up time.
In attendance were:
Peter Crozier OIC, Peter Clucas, Michael Knight, John Ireland, James Ross, John Flynn, Darren Sweeney, James Hamilton, Richard Baguley, Chris Kelly, Jonty Shuter, David Hodge, Neil Schirmer with one not attending. Great group of fellows who carried out their tasks admirably and without complaint.
With a lot of events occurring in competition, stall holders and crowd numbers were down resulting in a lower final total. A number of stallholders reported lower sales than usual but were quite understanding re. hot day and other events. One stallholder was happy to be at the market saying that the stallholder fee at another event was $700. Fortunately, the bbq ingredients had been reduced by 25% resulting in little throw out and the fellows enjoyed the 15 snags left over. The heat of the day cost the OIC a bit of funding with a slab and a half of beer consumed.
There was much discussion about the future direction of the market with the load on the aging members and the time taken to put up and take down tents, table tops and trestles to be taken into consideration. With around $26000 being the approximate income , it was mentioned that perhaps the club should redirect their efforts to other or fewer income sources. Some felt that we should give up the market altogether and let other sources operate the market bearing in mind that the market does provide an event for the community. One suggested that we should become a probus club with fun and conversation being emphasised. Topic for discussion at the facilitator meeting?
Figures for the day:
Stall no shows after booking 7
27 Stalls $1485
Gate $ 471
BBQ $ 414
TOTAL $2370
Peter Crozier OIC
PAUL HARRIS FELLOWS
The Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) recognition acknowledges individuals who have contributed or have had contributions made in their name, of US$1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Members of Wollundry contribute $50 each year to The Rotary Foundation which is included in our annual subs
By contributing $100 you become a member of the Rotary Foundation Centurion Program
The Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) committee is seeking nominations for consideration of presenting a PHF to either a club or community member who has met the ideals of the Foundation
Should you know of a suitable candidate, or wish to know more about The Rotary Foundation, please contact the Foundation Director John Egan or a member of our committee – David Byfield, Peter Crozier or Ken Cook
All nominations including a brief summary of the person’s history and community service
be forwarded to the PHF committee chair
Ken Cook
PHF Chairman
SERGEANT'S SESSION
Peter Green entertained us with his subtle wit and extracted a good amount of money for all the lovers on St Valentine's Day. St Valentine, according to Peter, is not only the patron saint of lovers, but of Beekeepers, fine sergeants etc.
All those who have not completed their working with children checks - pay up!
John Gray was fined for misleading the Sergeant who was told there was not much involved with being a sergeant. Peter read a list of duties including ensuring an orderly dignified Rotary meeting, setting up the furniture, making sure the computer and overhead functions were operating, organising fines etc etc. So called media tarts were also fined: Tim McMullen who was mentioned in the Past history of Wagga in Saturday's DA for being in the Wagga Swimming Club. Someone associated with the birth of ten piglets???? Neil Pinto for the Indian Cricket Team. James Hamilton for being a lay cannon and not a loose cannon.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
Won this week by John Flynn who took home the wine.
Our Guest Speaker today was Dr. Kristian Girling Ph.D. John Gray did the introduction and told us that Kris is a frequenter of the Riverine Club and a member of his friendship group. He has a doctorate in Philosophy in Middle Easter Studies from the University of London. He has taught in both the UK and the USA. He now works in Human Resources and his wife is from Wagga.
Kristian has authored a book of the history of the Catholic Church in the Middle East which is available on Amazon. It is titled "The Chaldean Catholic Church: Modern History, Ecclesiology and Church-State Relations"
Kristian began by posing the question: Why think about the Middle East in Wagga? Because there are so many connections, from Agriculture to Immigration, from History to Trade.
In the West we have many false assumptions about the Middle East. Geographically it is a vast area from Morocco to Afghanistan, including many countries with a hugely varied environment. It is the Heartland of many ancient civilisations as well as modern ones, Sumerian, Babylonian, Egyptian etc. It has come under the influence of many European Powers and has many natural resources some of which have brought great wealth through the production of oil and gas.
Over 420 million people live in this region of the world. Egypt, Iran and Turkey are the most populous with many religious identities and languages. The biggest Jewish population outside Israel is in Iran. Religion is very important. Intense beliefs influence daily life. The three main languages are Arabic, Persian and Turkish.
There are some major themes which will influence life in this region: The transition from Carbon fuels which are a finite resource, to other income sources. Israel for example is heavily invested in Hi Tech. Security Issues, food, water and physical protection are high on the agenda. There are many monarchies in the the Middle East which are changing although at a glacial pace.
Australia has a longstanding interaction with the region, from the afghan camel traders to the Anzacs in various theatres of war, Beersheeba, Gallipoli, Tobruk etc. Migration from that area to Australia between 2001 and 2019 increased by 130% and of course here in Wagga we have many Yazidi from Iraq, Hazara from Afghanistan and Dinka from South Sudan, as well as others from Iran etc. The Saudis have many investments in Australia increasing to 5.1 billion dollars. We export a lot of grain including Barley to Saudi Arabia.
Kristian responded to a number of questions on topics from the Israel/Palestine conflict, to the position of women in Iran, to what does a PH.D. do.
Members were very interested in Kristian's talk and warmly applauded as President Phil presented him with a bottle of olive oil in appreciation.
The familiar routine to get our meeting underway was observed - Grace, Toast to Charles and Australians, no visiting Rotarians and then acknowledging our guests.
A quick summary of the last weeks activities followed - Eftpos equipment and banking issues, upcoming Food and Wine Cmtee meeting, Probus seeking a chairperson for their AGM, and confirmation of the facilitators meeting on 28 Feb - in lieu of our luncheon meeting on that day.
There were announcements regarding next weeks meeting - a vocational visit to PCYC, at their new building in Fitzhardinge Street. Phil also floated the idea that the carpark under the PCYC could be considered at a venue for our Saturday markets........for rainy days, or permanently?
David Post took the floor, and spruiked a movie premiere coming up on Friday 17th Feb. This will support Rural Outreach Counselling, and tickets cost $20, and must be pre purchased. The Movie is called "The Road Dance"
Another fundraiser coming up for Rural Outreach Counselling is an art Auction, and that will be later in March. The Little Yellow House in Thompson Street is supporting the event. The aim is to sell around 100 canvases, at $100 so we hope new talent is unearthed.
The Food and Wine Festival committee is chaired by Adrian Whiting. They met for an "On-Site" meeting on Monday morning, where the festival layout was discussed. Early decisions included moving off Morrow street to avoid traffic control costs, and adjusting Wine locations to accomodate new garden layouts.
The number 17 was drawn from the bedpan, and John Flynn was announced as the winner.
Peter Thompson, CEO Wagga City Council, was today's guest speaker. He was introduced by PP Greg Conkey, recently retired Mayor of Wagga City. Greg praised the work done by Peter in his five years as CEO. He rated Peter as one of the better CEOs in NSW and was pleased that he has been appointed for a further five year term.
Peter said he was proud to serve for another five year term. Speaking without notes or overheads, he displayed a command of his portfolio and addressed a number of issues, not in any order of merit.
Lake Albert. Council has obtained a licence from Government to draw water from the River to top up the Lake. Peter is pleased to have the physical licence in the property of the council so that there can be no retraction of the agreement. Council is seeking assistance to build the infrastructure from Commonwealth program. If not forthcoming Council will build it themselves. The amount of business the Lake brings to Wagga is a no brainer for a government spend.
Special Activation Precinct (SAP) The $50 million dollar project at the Industrial Estate is completed on time and under budget. This has come from State Govt funding. There is a lot of interest in Blocks which are being offered behind the Intermodal Freight Terminal. Tenders are bing sought from Agents to manage the sale of books. The next stage, budgeted to cost $105 million, is underway.
Housing. Wagga has a shortage of housing and there is no easy answer to the problem. Tradies have plenty of work and with the construction boom which is about to get underway, there will be a shortage of staff. Defence is spending $1.5 billion on upgrading the defence bases at Kapok and Forest Hill. Housing to accommodate the extra employees and flow on will be hard to find. New housing estates are proposed in the south of Wagga. There will be two subdivisions offering 5,000 lots. The Northern area around the University will expand but it is years away.
Bio-Diversity offset laws are killing off a lot of projects because the cost outweighs any profit for developers.
Waste Disposal Site. Council is in conflict with TransGrid which has used its Compulsory Acquisition Power to obtain an easement for its power lines to run through the middle of the Waste Disposal Site.
Solar Farms. The positioning of solar farms in farming country is a big issue and Council is having a conference to discuss this. Peter gave an example of how a farmer could be sued for millions of dollars if a fire escaped from a farm and destroyed a solar farm. There is no insurance available for such a catastrophe.
Strategic Plan. A review is underway regarding housing in the City. While denser housing is desirable it must not damage the heritage nature of so many areas.
Local Environment Plan is being reviewed.
Pot Holes. Wagga City Council has a budget of $200 million. Roads come under the category of general expenses. Rate in come is siloed, e.g. Waste rates must be spent of waste disposal etc. Council is responsible for 3,000 ks of roads. Of the budget, $45 million is available for spending on general expenses. This year $37 million has been spent on roads. Put simply there are insufficient funds to fix the roads properly. If a special rate levy were to be introduced it would cost around $400 per year per rateable property. Council has no intention of going down this track at present and will seek funds from other sources.
PCYC has been opened, a brilliant building.
Wagga City NSW University is opening a Hospital School to train Rural Doctors, and the first intermodal train has arrived at Bomen. A Company is in talks with council about building a lithium battery facility in Wagga. Talks are underway with Defence about Wagga Airport.
A number of questions were asked by members and answers are included in the text of the above summary.
Peter was thanked by President Phil and presented with a bottle of wine in appreciation of an excellent update of the State of the City. Members showed their appreciation with a round of applause.
This week's meeting was held upstairs at Romanos Hotel.
President Phil opened the meeting with a thank you for all we have & enjoy, he proposed a toast to the King and to the People of Australia.
Working on reception and attendance was Tim Hutchings and David Golland, seen here welcoming Peter Crozier.
Thirty-three members were ticked as present on the attendance sheet for the lunch meeting and AGM.
Good Fellowship and in-depth discussions were enjoyed before meeting.
Guests
There was no guest at this week's meeting.
Apologies & Make-ups
Apologies were Peter Clucas, Doug Conkey, John Flynn, Pat Ingram, John Ireland, Chris Kelly, Gerry Gerlach, Peter Mackinnon, Jonty Shuter, Darren Sweeney.
Make-up was David Byfield.
Board Meeting
President Phil announced that at the board meeting on Monday night the board accepted the resignation of Steve Barker.
Phil said the treasure had advised the following projects had been paid, $2,000 to the PNG Solar Project, $2,950 for the donations from the members to the Rotary Foundation, $2,950 for sponsorship of students to RYPEN, $2,400 for RYPEN Leadership program, $1,639.82 to Gumley Gardens kitchen upgrade, $2,500 to South Wagga Anglican Parish for two AED's, $2,000 to the Fiji solar battery replacement project.
New project expenditure approved at last night's board meeting were ratified at today's meeting. They are, Anglicare Christmas Appeal $5,000, Carevan freezer upgrade $4,950, Vinnies Christmas Appeal $5,000, ProPatria Trust to establish the centre $15,000, Ronald McDonald House for six months accommodation $6,000 and RAWCS for the Central West NSW community flood relief $10,000, Wagga Boat Club $1,250 to assist with the purchase of an automated external defibrillator.
Darren Wallace has been accepted as President for 2023-24.
Income & Expenditure
David Pyke presented a deep dive into the Income & Expenses report that went to the Auditors, he stepped through each line using the projector screen. A copy had been circulated to all members. He also talked through some of the recommendations.
Constitution
James Hamilton spoke in detail about the changes the club is making to the constitution follow the recently proposed recommendations. There are six from Rotary International and six from the Department of Fair Trading. James opened it up for members to discuss and ask questions. It was moved and accepted that these changes be applied. James also accepted the position of Public Officer.
Information
John Egan said the Christmas Cake orders will close next week so there is still time to put your name down.
Sergeant Session
We ran out of time for the sergeant's session, David Foster was all prepared for it however he agreed to do it next week.
Rotary Information
Rotary information was also moved to next week.
Members Draw
We had a few seconds left to quickly draw a peg and the lucky winner was Pete Wilesmith.
Today's guest speaker was our club member David Post who took us on a tour of the outback. His purpose was to get members to think outside the box when thinking of projects for our club.
At Alice Springs there was a big sign on the outskirts advertising the Fink River race. The sign had the Rotary Wheel on it. In the Todd River (which is mostly dry sand) David's partner Karen sat and painted with a group of indigenous women. After a joyful time together they exchanged paintings.
In Katherine NT they discovered a Rotary fun park. In Kununurra there was a tree painted blue by Rotary. The blue tree is to get people to have a conversation about depression. (Incidentally I saw one in the grounds of CSU recently).
In Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges in SouthAustralia, David and Karen bushwalked to Mt Olsen Bagge and observed a number of bird boxes in the trees. The boxes were stamped with the Rotary Symbol. They discovered that Rotary is involved with a nature preservation effort. The aim is to help stop the extinction of native species. Rotary Clubs from two districts are involved in the effort which encompasses an extensive area across inland Australia. Eighty five percent of the workers on the project are Indigenous.
David told us about the HMAS Sydney memorial in Geraldton W.A. This is a magnificent memorial to the 645 Australian sailors who were lost when the German raider Kormoran engaged in a mutually destructive battle on 19th November 1941. The project to build the memorial was initiated by the Rotary Club of Geraldton. The Rotary Club steering committee started working on the project on July 1 1998. In 2009 The Australian Government recognised the memorial as a National Memorial. The dome is made of 645 joined sea gulls to represent each of the sailors who died. The widow statue looks out to sea in the direction of where the battle took place and where the ship's remains were recently discovered.
David wanted to tell us about these very interesting and worthwhile projects to get us thinking about what sort of projects we might pursue in the future. Projects that might be beneficial to a wider community than just Wagga.
Once again, one of our own proved to be a very interesting speaker. David was applauded by members and presented with a bottle of oil as a thank you.
President Phil presided over today's meeting which he opened in the usual way.
He offered condolences on behalf of the club to Secretary Peter MacKinnon, on the death of his father Don MacKinnon. Don's funeral will take place this Friday at 10 a.m. at the Lawn Cemetery Chapel, Brunskill Rd.
Next week's meeting is at Pro Patria, the former Carmelite Monastery in Ashmont. The address is Morshead St. Turn right from Ashmont Avenue into Montgomery St. just past the men's shed then left at the T into Moorhead. A barbecue will be available for $15. If you are coming please pay your Money into Wollundry club account. BSB 325-185 Acc. 38700036.
FOOD AND WINE
Adrian Whiting called for Committee members to attend a meeting this Thursday at 5 p.m. David Pyke has prepared a budget to help members decide whether to continue with this festival next year.
SERGEANT'S SESSION
Peter Green fined several members: Neil Pinto because Australia is out of the T20 series; Melbourne Cup sweep winners Michael Knight, Peter Crozier, Ken Cook, David Byfield, David Pyke, David Benn, Tim Hutchings, Adrian Whiting, John Gray, John Egan and Phil McIntosh took out the big prize of $140.
The rest of us were fined because we had great difficulty in matching Kings and Monarchies. Peter gave some very interesting statistics about the number of monarchies which are still part of the Commonwealth.
ROTARY INFORMATION
John Gray continued with his theme of Wollundry Rotary History. In 1977 Ethel Forrest died and bequeathed a large amount of money, in excess of $1 million, to the Anglican Church to build a nursing facility. Archdeacon Tony Ireland, the Anglican Rector of St John's and a member of Wollundry Rotary, felt that the Little Company of Mary Nuns who operated Calvary Hospital, were best placed to fulfil Miss Forrest's wishes. Through his initiative and cooperation with the Catholic Diocese of Wagga a new Nursing Home was established, now known as the Forrest Centre. It was in the early days of Wollundry Rotary and members committed to raising $15,000 per year for three years, a large sum in those days. With some trepidation the Club took on the challenge and more than met the commitment. The Forrest Centre now has 250 staff, operates two facilities and provides 550 home care packages.
MAKEUPS
Adrian Whiting
APOLOGIES
Craig Bromley, Ken Cook, Frank Fuller, Gerry Gerlach, Robert Hennesy-Hawks, Tim Hutchings, Pat Ingram, Chris Kelly, Paul Murray LOA, David Pyke, Ken Sergeant, Jonty Shuter, John Smith, Darren Wallace, Peter Wilesmith
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
This week's winner of the wine was Michael Knight.
Our own member John Smith, was Guest Speaker today, and to allow for an extended presentation, President Phil unleashed him early.
An aviator that John held in high regard, and that John had met during a trip to Oshkosh, "Bob Hoover" was the subject of todays talk. He was an American fighter pilot, Test Pilot, Flight Instructor, and record setting air show aviator.
We learned about his early life, an early fixation with flying, and his concealment of this interest from his parents. He learned to fly at age 16. paying for tuition by working in a grocery store. He got airsick and confronted this by flying aerobatics, day after day until he controlled the affliction.
He joined the USAF in time for WW2, impressed his military flying instructors, but was posted to a transport squadron because he was too tall for combat flying. That didn't stop him and he became an ace pilot in the Mediterranean theatre of the war.
There were many stories about his exploits during the war - He flew 69 missions, was shot down and captured, escaped three times from prisoner of war camps and on the last occasion, near the end of the war, he highjacked a Focke Wulf and flew it to Holland.
He returned to America, and flew Sabre Jets in the Korean War, and was a compatriot of Chuck Yeagar, as a test pilot flying the Bell X1, the first flight to break the sound barrier.
From 1960, he flew at air shows in a Mustang called "old Yeller", and later flew an Aero Commander business plane at air shows until his retirement in the 1990's.
Bob Hoover retired from flying in 1999, but retained an interest in aviation and Bob met Australian Aviator and Moonee pilot John Smith at Oshkosh in 2015. They are photographed together. Bob Hoover died, aged 94, in October 2016.
Amid catastrophes produced by nature and mankind’s cruelest impulses, ShelterBox teams of volunteers rush forward. From the earthquake that killed hundreds of people in Ecuador in April to the continuing refugee trail out of the Middle East, ShelterBox has sent aid to help hundreds of thousands of displaced households.
Notable missions since the disaster relief charity was founded 16 years ago include the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2010 quake in Haiti, where some 300,000 tents were supplied. In the United States, ShelterBoxes were delivered to those displaced by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, Sandy in New York and New Jersey, and tornadoes in the Midwest.
In July, RI and ShelterBox announced the extension of a three-year project partnership to provide emergency shelter, a natural fit according to both organizations. Rotarians, along with Rotaractors and Interactors, have contributed $48 million, or 40 percent of ShelterBox’s revenue, from the UK-based nonprofit’s inception in 2000 through 2015. (ShelterBox was founded by a Rotarian but is independent of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation.)
ShelterBoxes contain family-sized tents specially designed to withstand the elements and provide people with temporary shelter until they are able to start the process of rebuilding a home.
The signature green boxes feature Rotary’s logo and are adapted to fit the emergency before being transported on scant notice. Most boxes include family-size tents, though the contents differ depending on the disaster and climate. Many are packed with solar lights, water storage and purification equipment, thermal blankets, and cooking utensils. Depending on need, the organization may deliver ShelterKits, smaller aid packages that include tools, ropes, and heavy tarpaulins used to provide emergency shelter and repair damaged structures.
“The partnership between Rotary and ShelterBox has provided a place of refuge to people facing some of the most difficult and uncertain moments in their lives,” says RI General Secretary John Hewko. Tapping Rotary’s strengths, not just its funds, has nurtured ShelterBox, adds its chief executive, Chris Warham.
Past President Richard has given a pretty comprehensive summary of the matters discussed at our meeting so there is little left for the editor to do.
SATURDAY MARKET
OIC James Ross
TEAM David Benn, Geoff Breust, Craig Bromley, Greg Conkey, Peter Crozier, Gerry Gerlach, David Foster, Frank Fuller/Darren Sweeney, Tim Hutchings, Chris Kelly, Neil Pinto, Jonty Shuter.
Stalls: $795.00
Gate: $479.35
Barbecue: $208.55
TOTAL $1,482.90
Well done on a tough day.
VISITOR
Mac Armitage, guest of David Benn
APOLOGIES
Geoff Breust.
MAKEUPS
Geoff Breust, David Byfield, David Golland, Tim Hutchings, James Ross, Jonty Shuter.
Today I acted as president for the meeting while Phil is away. I was a bit rusty but with help managed to get through the meeting without too many mishaps. It is amazing how you forget the format so many thanks Phil for the worksheet. We had one guest today, Mac Armitage, invited by Frank Fuller, and who is known to many of our members. Our guest speaker could not attend today so will be rescheduled for a later date.
John Gray notified us that Grahan Burmeister is very ill and is now receiving palliative treatment in the cardiac ward in WWBH; very sad news as he is both a great guy and a stalwart in our club. I saw him last week and he was quite frail then.
Phil McIntosh updated us on gears and beers. registrations are slowly coming, currently about half of our usual numbers. It was deemed the new river precinct was not suitable so it will be in the Victory Memorial Gardens as in previous years.
John Smith exhorted our members to plan to attend the planning for the upcoming district conference.
Stuart Herriott gave a vey funny story about digging out a well; manual labour assisted by the use of explosive charges to keep getting depper in the hard ground. Thankfully no one died! And the well was a success.
Doug Conkey bave a brief of the history of women in rotary. They are currently 20% of rotarians world wide and that figure is growing.
The market last week managed to avoid most of the rain, then James Ross jinxed the last half hour about how the day had gone well with the weather; it rained ! The market raised about $1,400 give or take
Next weeks meeting will be a club assembley so no visitors nor guests please.
President Phil will be back next week to manage the meeting. It was interesting how you forget the order of events at a meeting but I muddled through. It was also the first meeting where we toasted the new king of Australia, Charles the third. All the best and see you next week. Richard.
Scott Sanbrook representing the Committee For Wagga (C4W) was our guest speaker today. He is pictured with Sophie Uden technical assistant and President Phil Burgess.
Prior to his talk Sophie ran a web based video on the work of the Committee. It ran for about twenty minutes and was an excellent production that gave a comprehensive and detailed picture of the work of C4W. It can be accessed at https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YFiEY6h-_uk
Scott and Sophie were introduced by PP Geoff Breust, former CEO of REX airlines and long time member of C4W.
Via the video and Scott's talk we learned of the vision and values of the Committee for Wagga.
To make Wagga Wagga - Australia’s most liveable regional city.
To champion positive change through leadership, action and collaboration for a thriving Wagga Wagga by:
supporting and promoting the city to ensure accelerated population growth;
identifying and implementing opportunities that will enhance our cultural, social, business and economic prosperity; and
providing a platform for community, business and government collaboration to effect positive change.
To achieve the above through commitment, accountability, being courageous and having integrity.
The C4W has been in existence for ten years and has achieved some outstanding results:
The increase in the River Levy Bank to cope with a 1 in 100 year flood. The committee was able to help persuade three tiers of government to stump up the $23 million required.
Leadership Program for new leaders.
Mentoring Program for emerging leaders.
CCTV in CBD at a cost of 1.2 million.
Lights around the Lake.
New Years Fireworks.
Special Activation Precinct at Bomen.
Planning for 100,000 population. Leaders meeting with Bernard Salt AO demographer.
The first CEO was Chris Fitzpatrick. Many others including Judy Galloway, Kay Hull, Geoff Crouch and Brett Somerville spoke on the video of the early days of the organisation and how it evolved.
Essentially C4W drives innovation and puts pressure on Wagga Wagga City Council to deal with issues that C4W identifies as vital for the enhancement of the city.
Scott said he is proud of the documentary which was produced by Adam Drummond current chair of C4W. Scott was standing in for Adam who was unable to attend our meeting today.
C4W has a long list of items that it wants to see delivered to make Wagga the most liveable regional city in Australia. They include:
Housing and Transport including the Wagga bypass, duplication of the Gobba Bridge
Upgrade of Wagga Airport.
Upskilling of locals and new migrants.
Social Housing
Inland Rail Corridor through Wagga
For a complete list go to C4W website: Committee4Wagga.com.au
President Phil thanked Scott and Sophie for their comprehensive presentation of the work and achievements of C4W. They were each presented with a bottle of olive oil and Sophie won the door prize of a bottle of red. Members showed their appreciation with a round of applause.
President Phil opened the 11th Meeting of the year with a thanksgiving for all we have and enjoy, and a toast to the Queen and the People of Australia. He then welcomed our visitors Scott Sandbrook and Sophie Uden, Scott is our guest speaker for today, representing the Committee For Wagga, and Sophie is his technical assistant. Also welcomed was Darren Sweeney who is to be inducted as a new member.
Phil welcomed our returning cricketers David Benn and John Gray who were playing in an IFCR competition in Cairns. Last week's Bulletin has a picture of the four representatives from Wagga for those who failed to read that Bulletin, it is included below.
John Gray (green shirt), reported that the weather was lousy but they had some cricket. The highlight was John Flynn, bowled John Gray caught David Benn. John Flynn was an apology for today's meeting presumably still wounded by being bowled and caught by his fellow Wollundrians, John Gray (Hamstring) and David Benn ( multiple bruises) were the walking wounded who did attend today.
President Phil reminded members that they will be required to vote on Regionalisation. In response to a question, he gave a brief description of his understanding of the issue which was further elaborated on by John Egan, who made it as clear as mud, but who encouraged us all to vote for the motion.
INDUCTION OF NEW MEMBER
Darren Sweeney is inducted into the Rotary Club Of Wollundry by President Phil Burgess. David Benn, his sponsor, lends his support. Darren has been appointed to the Gears and Beers Committee. In reply to his welcome into the Club, he promised to use his talents to "give something back to the community". He described "Benny" as one in a million.
Members stand to welcome our newest member!
GEARS AND BEERS
Phil McIntosh reported that he and David Byfield attended the Rotary Club of Coolamon to discuss that Club's role in our upcoming event. He said the Coolamon Club is behind the festival 110%. It is a great club with enthusiastic members who will do whatever it takes to support our Cycling event.
There are four more meetings to go for the committee before the festival on 1st and 2nd of October. Please put your name on the roster and talk to Neil Pinto if you are an escort rider or a lead driver.
VISITORS
Scott Sanbrook, Sophie Uden and Darren Sweeney.
APOLOGIES
Graeme Burmeister, Ken Cook, John Ferguson, John Flynn, John Ireland, John Mason, David Pyke, Neil Shirmer, Greg Conkey.
MAKEUPS
David Byfield, Phil McIntosh, James Ross, Jonty Shuter, John Gray, David Benn, John Flynn.
Craig, Mal, James and Neil listening to Rick's description of equipment and facilities at the Men's Shed
Says it all.
A front end loader donated to the shed for a value of $22,000!
Thanks Rick and Men's Shed members for a great day and a great meal. What a fantastic enterprise that provides so many with a sense of purpose and a camaraderie five days a week. Hats off to you!
Brenda and David Foster celebrated their 36th Wedding Anniversary with an outing and a delicious meal with drinks at the Men's Shed. Quite a large number of Rotarians turned up to help them celebrate. Congratulations Brenda and David on achieving a long and happy marriage.
BURMO
As we know Burmo has been very sick in Wagga Base Hospital. Late last week his family were called to his bedside so low was his condition, however he has rallied. Doug Sutton visited him on Monday last and he was sitting up and talking freely though he has some way to go. He asked to be remembered to all our members and to thank them for their thoughts and best wishes.
INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF CRICKETING ROTARIANS
Alan Sharpe (Sunrise), David Benn, John Flynn and John Gray enjoying their cricket in the tropics.
APOLOGIES
Richard Baguley, Ateve Barker, David Benn, Geoff Breust, Peter Clucas, Doug Conkey, Greg Conkey, Ken Cook, Peter Crozier, JohnFerguson (Recovering well from his recent Heart procedure), John Flynn, John Gray, Peter Green, Mark Hillis, David Hodge, Pat Ingram, JohnIreland, Chris Kelly Phil McIntosh, Tim McMullen, Paul Murray,Andrew Puckeridge, David Pyke, Bob Willis.
Thirty members attended the meeting with two visitors: Brenda Foster and P.P. Kevin Watts.
President Phil dressed the assembled members after opening with a period of reflection. He thanked Rick for organising the Men's Shed as our meeting venue for today at short notice. He also thanked the members of the Men's Shed for the excellent fare they prepared: Sausages and chicken with roast vegetables and dessert of ice cream and fruit salad washed down with their own brew of ginger beer or light ale.
Rick spoke on behalf of the Men's Shed. He gave a history of the shed including its early days and then the move to the current site, formerly a pony club ground. He thanked Wollundry Rotary Club for their tremendous support and singled out John Ireland, John Mason, and Colin Duff for special thanks.
John Ireland gave the Shed good advice regarding the site. Instead of renting the site from the Council, the Shed applied for a change of use for the site which is crown land. The result is that the Shed pays no rent and is able to access government grants more easily. If the Men's Shed organisation collapses the whole site will revert to Local Government to deal with. Following our meal, Rick lead us on a tour of the amazing facility.
Satisfied diners, Ken Sergeant and Peter Wilesmith, and also Kevin Watts returned to share a meal.
First off was Guest speaker Steve Mathews Chair of Riverina Bluebelles, which is a mental health support group. The group had been inactive through the Covid period and are in the process of a relaunch.
Steve Matthew's message to us yesterday regarding the launch of the new RBB Web site which will be at Romano's at 4.30 to 6.30pm on 11th July and would like as much support from Wollundry as possible.
AHA ( Riverina) are producing 100,000 drink coasters for all the various hotels in the Riverina to use in their hotels promoting what RBB do.
He spoke of men's health and mental illness. He encouraged all those in the club to provide their email to help with the re-establishment of the RBB group. He encouraged any members who may currently be experiencing any mental health issues to contact RBB via the website https://www.riverinabluebell.org.au/
President Richard began the meeting by grinning and announcing that this was his last regular meeting. He said he had learned a great deal and thanked all the members for their support.
Our normal meeting room on the second floor was not available today so we were assigned to the Hampden on the first floor. The room is a bit small for our numbers and does not allow for everyone to view a projection screen easily. Nevertheless we progressed with the last meeting of the year.
Members Choice John Ireland John came to the meeting well prepared with loads of facts and questions on Rotary. He went through a number of questions of which the following is a small sample:
1. In what year was Rotary founded? 2. In what city was Rotary founded? 3. Who was the founder of Rotary? 4. What was the first city in Australia to have a Rotary club? 5. What was Paul Harris's occupation?
The members flew through the first 4 questions but slowed up to a standstill at the fifth, with some members mumbling, others grinning and others querying John as to whether he knew the answer. Of course he did. Paul Harris was a lawyer and John Ireland is a lawyer.
Secretary Phil Burgess announces the Board Meeting and Budget approval.
Secretary Phil Burgess informed members that the board meeting on Monday night had completed a number of major items, which included matters for the changeover, publication of the changeover booklet, next years budget and Projects that were approved by the board.
Phil noted that other speakers would be making the specific details of the approvals later in the meeting.
Michael Knight announces two Projects Approved by the Board Michael Knight addressed the members and announced two projects that were approved by the board. The projects and amounts were as follows:
1. Australian Rotary Health $5,000 2. St Vincent De Paul Winter Appeal $5,000
Both projects were approved by the members.
Horse Ball Fundraiser for Ethan July 22 at the RSL Adrian Whiting brought in a video of Horseball and explained how active and exciting it is. His son Ethan has been chosen to represent Australia and they are going to France to participate in the competition.
There is a fundraiser coming up on July 22 at the RSL and Adrian hopes to get a couple tables together to help support the team. They have a good evening planned with trivia and auction and other activities. Get the family together. You're going to really enjoy it! And you'll be helping a mate.
Apologies, Guests and Makeups Guests - Steve Mathews Apologies - Doug Sutton, John Mason, Doug Conkey, Ken Sergeant, Craig Bromley, and Bob Willis (LOA) Makeups.-Phil McIntosh, John Mason, Michael Knight, David Byfield, Pat Ingram, John Gray, David Pyke We had 33 members attend today.
David Pyke Presents the Budget David Pyke, club Treasurer presented the budget to the board on Monday evening and it was approved. Copies of the budget were not available, nevertheless no one was querying the specifics.
The budget does allow a $50 reduction in fees due to a surplus.
Darren Wallace talks about RYLA Darren gave members an overview of the long established and very successful Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.
The program is international and most districts conduct them since it is such a worthwhile program. It is essentially a week long training and learning program that gives participants experiences that will benefit them their entire lives.
Past Rylarians as they are called, speak extremely highly of the program. Attendees must be sponsored by a Rotary club and the cost of the week ($950) can be covered by a business or a Rotary club.
Darren is hopeful our club can organise a candidate for RYLA this year.
Members Draw Paul Murray won the bottle of wine!
Here are a couple archive photos of Past Presidents
My last Secretary's Report for the year. I thank you all for their support over the 2 years of my tenure. If I receive similar support as President I will be well satisfied.
In am looking forward to the new role, and congratulate President Richard for his effort over the past year.
Thank you to fellow Board members for their support over the past two years.
The changeover dinner is all planned with about 80 attendees registered. 6:30pm for 7:00pm, RSL Club Mirage room. Please pay $30pp to
BSB 325 185
Account 387 000 36 if you have not yet.
Peter Mackinnon will be succeeding me as Secretary. Well done Peter, I wish you all the best in your new role.
My next report will be as President, see you then.
President Richard began the meeting by grinning and announcing that this was his last regular meeting. He said he had learned a great deal and thanked all the members for their support.
Our normal meeting room on the second floor was not available today so we were assigned to the Hampden on the first floor. The room is a bit small for our numbers and does not allow for everyone to view a projection screen easily. Nevertheless we progressed with the last meeting of the year.
Steve Mathews Chair of Riverina Bluebelles
First off was Guest speaker Steve Mathews Chair of Riverina Bluebelles, which is a mental health support group. The group had been inactive through the Covid period and are in the process of a relaunch. He is asking members to be a part of the program and come to the relaunch where local people can act as representatives of community organizations in support of the relaunch. He spoke of mens health and mental illness. He encouraged all those in the club to provide their email to help with the re-establishment of the group. He encouraged any members who may currently may experiencing any mental health issues to contact their online office.
Members Choice John Ireland
John came to the meeting well prepared with loads of facts and questions on Rotary. He went through a number of questions of which the following is a small sample:
In what year was Rotary founded?
In what city was Rotary founded?
Who was the founder of Rotary?
What was the first city in Australia to have a Rotary club?
What was Paul Harris's occupation?
The members flew through the first 4 questions but slowed up to a standstill at the fifth, with some members mumbling, others grinning and others querying John as to whether he knew the answer. Of course he did. Paul Harris was a lawyer and John Ireland is a lawyer.
Sec Phil Burgess announces the Board Meeting and Budget approval.
Secretary Phil Burgess informed members that the board meeting on Monday night had completed a number of major items, which included matters for the changeover, publication of the changeover booklet, Next years budget and Projects that were approved by the board. Phil noted that other speakers would be making the specific details of the approvals later in the meeting.
Michael Knight announces two Projects Approved by the Board
Michael Knight addressed the members and announced two projects that were approved by the board. The projects and amounts were as follows:
Australian Rotary Health $5,000
St Vincent De Paul Winter Appeal $5,000
Both projects were approved by the members.
Horse Ball Fundraiser for Ethan July 22 at the RSL
Adrian Whiting brought in a video of Horseball and explained how active and exciting it is. His son Ethan has been chosen to represent Australia and they are going to France to participate in the competition.
There is a fundraiser coming up on July 22 at the RSL and Adrian hopes to get a couple tables together to help support the team. They have a good evening planned with trivia and auction and other activities. Get the family together. You're going to really enjoy it! And you'll be helping a mate.
Apologies, Guests and Makeups
Apologies - John Smith, Doug Sutton, John Mason, Chris Kelly, Doug Conkey,Colin Duff,Ken Sergeant, Stuart Heriot,and Michael Knight plus Craig Bromley, and Bob Willis (LOA)
Makeups.-Phil McIntosh,John Mason,Michael Knight, David Byfield, Pat Ingram, John Gray, David Pyke
We had 33 members attend today.
Members Draw
Paul Murray won the bottle of wine!
David Pyke Presents the Budge
David Pyke, club Secretary presented the budget to the board last night and got it approved. Copies of the budget were not available. nevertheless no one was querying the specifics. The budget does allow a $50 reduction in fees due to an unforseen surplus.
Darren Wallace talks about RYLA
Darren gave members an overview of the long established and very successful Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. The program is international and most districts conduct them since it is such a worthwhile program. It is essentially a week long training and learning program that gives participants experiences that will benefit them their entire lives. Past Rylarians as they are called, speak extremely highly of the program. Attendees must be sponsored by a Rotary club and the cost of the week ($950) can be covered by a business or a Rotary club. Darren is hopeful our club can organise a candidate for RYLA this year.
The American Civil War was the backdrop for Doug Conkey's most interesting talk about the Gettysburg address. In 1863 the Battle of Gettysburg, a small hamlet, took place over 3 days from the 1st to the 3rd of July. The Confederate army from the South was led by Robert E. Lee while the Northern Army was led by George Meade. 170,000 troops took part in the battle and while the South lost 25,000 men the North's casualties were 28,000. Lee withdrew his troops and left the battleground on 5th July.
In November of that year, Abraham Lincoln went to Gettysburg to dedicate the Union (Northern Army) Cemetery. The main speaker on the day was Edward Everett, a well known politician and clergyman noted for his oratory. He spoke for one hour and fifty seven minutes. The President had been asked to offer only a "few appropriate remarks".
Lincoln's address lasted only a few short minutes and comprised 269 words, but it has come to be regarded as one of the all-time great speeches.
Doug and Wendy toured the Civil War sites and Doug has very detailed interest in that terrible conflict which saw citizens of the same country slaughter each other. The rift in the American body politic is still very evident today.
Our newest Paul Harris Fellow Belinda Crain, is pictured here with President Richard Baguley and former refugee and Australian Citizen, Hung Kee.
Belinda Crain got the surprise of her life when she was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship for her great work as the CEO of the Multicultural Council of Wagga. Belinda is no stranger to awards as she was awarded the 2021 title of Citizen of the Year.
Prior to the granting of the award by President Richard, Belinda had given us a very comprehensive insight into the refugee community of Wagga.
Belinda began working with the Multicultural Council in 2008 after running Youth Services for the Wagga City Council. She is trained Social Worker as well as a nurse.
In 2005, Wagga was designated as a refugee resettlement city. There are now families from 14 African nations including from South Sudan and Burundi.
Of course Wagga has a long history of taking in refugees from post WW11 with an influx of Dutch, Italians, Baltic States, East Europeans and then Vietnamese in the 70's and now from Africa, Burma, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran and Tibet. In 2016 a big influx of Yazidis arrived. There are now 1,500 Yazidis living in Wagga. They are a minority religious group from Iraq who were victims of genocide by ISIS. Seventy families have purchased their own home.
The Multicultural Council provides a range of services including: different pathways to residency; a health clinic; Dental and Pathology; a nurse led practice.
Belinda paid special tribute to Dr Geraldine Duncan who works with all the refugees arriving in Wagga.
The MCC also runs an employment pathways program for young people in social housing. It adopts a personal tailored style and has a target of getting at least 50 into work per year. This year 75 were placed in work.
Most refugees settle well and become loyal citizens of Wagga. Many have started new businesses e.g. Tibetan Tasty Treats, Two Barber Shops, and Asian Burmese Shop. The broader community is very accepting of the refugees especially when they see how hardworking and keen to succeed they are. A number of businesses, including Flip Screen, Viewco Glass, Coles have excellent employees and this in turn persuades others to offer employment.
The MCC is funded through Federal, State and Local Government Grants.
Belinda's talk was very well received and appreciated by members who were clearly impressed by her work and the positive contribution our new citizens are making to our community.
John Egan, who introduced Belinda also offered a vote of thanks which was supported by all members.
Rotary Grace and the Loyal Toast were the preamble to a very interesting meeting which included the granting of a Paul Harris Fellowship to Belinda Crain from the Wagga Multicultural Council.
President Richard welcomed our visitors including Ken Sergeant, Hung Kee and Fr. Paddy Sykes. Paddy and Hung had come to hear out Guest Speaker Belinda Crain from the Multicultural Council.
Hung Kee addressed the club to tell us his story. Considering that he spoke no English when he arrived in Australia, his ability to stand and speak to the club and relate the events that brought him to Australia, was astonishing. As a catholic minority group he was among those persecuted by the military regime. He fled to Malaysia where he spent four and a half years in a refugee camp. Having applied through the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, he was granted an Australian visa.
Life in Malaysia was difficult. The local police were corrupt forcing many refugees to pay them bribes to avoid false accusations. Australia was a stark contrast where he was greeted at the airport (including by Burmo), helped by the Society of St Vincent De Paul and provided with Government assistance to commence a new life. His family are currently hiding in the jungle in Burma to avoid arrest and persecution.
When he arrived in 2012, Hung spoke no English so he enrolled at TAFE to learn. He lived on the $400 per week he received from Centrelink and also took up a TAFE course in horticulture. His teacher asked him if he wanted a job and he jumped at the chance. Viewco Glass became his new employer and he has been with that firm for nine years and is now the floor manager. Because of his excellent work ethic, Viewco Glass now employs seven Burmese.
Our club congratulates Hung and all the other refugees who have come through struggle to find a productive life in their newly adopted country!
GEARS AND BEERS
Phil McIntosh and David Byfield reported a very successful night at Coolamon Rotary where they handed over a cheque for $8,000. The money was a reward for the marvellous assistance that the Coolamon Club provided for our festival. Phil and David couldn't speak highly enough of the enthusiasm and commitment of the Coolamon Club for the Gears and Beers festival. They said the mutual benefit between the two Clubs was good for the community and good for Rotary. Albert Suidgeest and Daryl Breust from the Coolamon Rotary Club received the cheque from Phil and David at their regular Monday night meeting.
David also reported that a further $11,500 was distributed by Wollundry to other Clubs in Wagga for their assistance with the festival. As well as providing these Clubs with financial benefits, our festival continues build strong bonds with fellow volunteers throughout our community.
ROTARY PARAPHENALIA
John Gray and Sturt Heriot have recently audited our cabinets and have rationalised what we should keep and what we should throw out. John said that there are a number of items that he will make available on a table at next week's meeting for members to take if they wish. Some members, of the nostalgic variety, might like some keepsakes, e.g. table numbers. Others might like a pullover or a hat or whatever takes their fancy. First in best dressed!
Yesterday's meeting turned out to be fairly busy but it flowed well. The number or attendees seems to be diminishing every week so could I exhort members to attend on every occasion that they can, as there was under 30 members yesterday.
The highlight of the day was our guest Belinda Crain from the multicultural centre. She gave an entertaining talk followed by her skooting around the floor with the microphone in her hand to answer questions; I then had the pleasure to present her with a Paul Harris pin for all the good she has done in her field. She was introduced and thanked by John Egan.
Attending with her was a young man Hung Kee from Myanmar who spoke no English 3 years ago but now is fluent; he told us briefly about his escape and a period in Malaysia and now settle here.
We also gave the Coolamon rotary club $8,000 as a thankyou for all there help with our Gears and Beers event.
My presidency is fast coming to an end and I sincerely thank my board and members for their unstinted help and advice. Next Monday is the last board meeting for the year, and organizing the change over is high on the agenda
Helen Sturman and Barry Shields came to tell us about "Cycling without age"
Cycling without age is an organisation that commenced in Copenhagen ten years ago. Its aim is to give the elderly and disabled the opportunity to experience the pleasure of travelling in a tricycle. Each chapter is semi autonomous with the central body providing insurance and compliance with safety and health regulations.
Tumbarumba Rotary Club has purchased three tricycles which are made in Denmark and cost $18,000 each. The tricycles have a pilot and two side by side seats in front. They are driven by a electric motor and speed limited to 10 kph. Safety is of prime concern for the mostly frail passengers.
CWA (Cycling without age) has now spread to 52 countries with over 3,700 trishaws and 35,000 pilots (Riders). It arrived in Australia in 2016 and has a number of chapters in Australia.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE AUSTRALIA FACTS
First trishaws in Australia in 2016
Cycling Without Age Australia incorporated as a registered charity in 2019
Operational Chapters = 32
independently governed = 20
governed by Cycling Without Age Australia = 12
Number of Cycling Without AgeAffiliates = 40
Number of volunteers = approx. 500
Oldest volunteer = 79
Number of Cycling Without Age trishaws operating in Australia
independently owned = approx. 50
owned by Cycling Without Age Australia = 25
All pilots are volunteers and passengers are taken on set routes for no charge. CWA is a not for profit and seeks donations only to sustain itself.
James Hamilton gave a very interesting information session on Wollundry Rotary Club's years of fund raising via Sunday Markets. Here is his report:
Sunday Markets – further information
Collections from 1979 to Nov 1996 was equivalent to $1m, then from Nov 1996 to October 2009 the second $1m was raised. Sunday Market was placed into recess in March 2014. The total gross collections of $2,280,270 less total costs of $238,259 resulting in $2,020,167 donated to charitable organisations. 1994 was the best year collection of $102,716 with 250+ stall holders attending each Sunday with stall fee of $8 and entry donation of 50 cents.
Christmas Markets on Baylis street were conducted from 2000 to 2007 in early December which attracted over 10,000 people each year into the main street of Wagga Wagga
Special markets were conducted at Wagga Beach car park on Australia Day for 2016, 2017, & 2018.
Penny the Pig
Penny the pig was constructed in 1996 made from fibre glass and it was motorised by a golf buggy. The idea of Penny the pig was to collect coins from children at schools and elsewhere. The eye lids and tail of Penny would move when coins were placed into the slot and a sound would emanate from Penny. One & two cent coins were no longer used in the community so collecting those coins. The cost to construct was $28,000 and the collections over a couple of years was $26,000. Penny the pig was handed over to Annie St Claire foundation. Presently, Penny is sitting in Rob Vidler’s yard in Mortimer place.
PDG Dr Henry Gardiner
I had a catch up with Henry last week in Merimbula. He has joined Merimbula Rotary club. He sends his regards to all Wollundrians. Henry is PP of Goulburn rotary club (former 9710 district), and he is PP of Kooringal Rotary club (former 9700 district). As both districts have merged recently forming District 9705, as far as we know, Henry is the only Rotarian to be past President in both former districts.
ROTARY PROGRAMS
Rotary’s programs are developing the next generation of leaders, providing funding to make the world better place, and making peace a priority. Rotary programs are not just for club members but for general community members.
Seeking dynamic leaders to change themselves and the world?
One of the programs is Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs and districts where people develop their skills as a leader while having fun and making connections.
What are the benefits?
Connect with leaders in your community and around the world to:
Build communication and problem-solving skills
Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
Have fun and form lasting friendships
What’s involved?
RYLA events are organized locally by Rotary clubs and districts for participants ages 14-30. Depending on community needs, RYLA may take the form of a one-day seminar, a three-day retreat, or a weeklong camp. Typically, events last 3-10 days and include presentations, activities, and workshops covering a variety of topics. Wollundry Club has been organising RYLA at district level for a number of years.
Your community might host a RYLA event for secondary school students to hone their leadership potential, for university students to develop creative problem-solving strategies, or for young professionals to learn ethical business practices.
How can you participate?
RYLA participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs. Contact your local Rotary club to find out more about RYLA events in your area, how to apply, and any costs of getting involved.
Examples of Rotary in action
RYLA in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, USA, challenged more than 80 students to participate in outdoor activities that developed team building, problem solving, and communication.
Outside of Warwickshire, England, RYLA participants learned to work together to accomplish a task and build trust.
In Helsingborg, Sweden, students from around the world learned from community leaders how to find solutions to everyday challenges.
Two teams of young leaders in Malawi worked together in a race against other teams to complete challenges that required teamwork and communication.
WOLLUNDRY ROTARY CLUB - Secretary’s Report for Tuesday 03rdMay 2022
Next regular Meeting on Tuesday 10th May 2022
Rosters:
Fellowship ( John Flynn
Reception (Asst. Treas.): John Ferguson
Furnit David Foster
Bulle Doug Sutton
Member’s Choice Peter Clucas
Rotary Information: Robert Hennessy-Hawks
Technology Setup: Peter Wilesmith
Guest Speaker: Belinda Crain
Reminders:
Next Sat Market 14th May 2022
OIC – Tim Hutchings (for Col Duff)
Team: David Post (for Burmo),John Flynn (for Shane Carroll), P. Clucas, Doug Conkey (for Gerry Gerlach), Bill Parker (for D. Golland), J. Ireland, Mark Hillis (for J. Mason), A. Puckeridge, Doug Sutton, J. Shuter, David Benn (for John Smith), A. Whiting, D. Wishart.
Signs – James Hamilton
Members Birthdays:May 09 James Ross
Wedding Anniversary: May 07 - Margot and Paul Milde
Diary dates:
Sat Market 14th May 2022
Next Board Meeting Mon 16th May 2022 – Joint 21-22 and 22-23 Board Members
RYDA 10th - 13th May Wagga Showgrounds
District Training – Goulburn 14th May 2022
District Training – Parkes 21st May 2022
Wagga RC Book Fair 14th /15th May 2022 – Volunteers to Ellen Brasier.
International Rotary Convention 4th - 8th June 2022 – Houston Texas. Register Now.
Rotaract Changeover 18th June 2022
Wollundry Changeover 28th June 2022
Next District Conference 21-23 Oct 2022, Joyes Hall CSU – Detail on the District Website
Todays meeting was small with about only 30 or so members attending. I would like to hope more of us would make the time to attend the weekly meetings. The meeting was busy and a lot was aired today.
David Benn had a guest, Robert Etchels, a retired group captain from the Australian air force. There were no visiting Rotarians.
David Byfield did members choice and entertained us with a host of interesting facts and statistics over a whole range of areas; quite interesting and a lot it made us think a bit about the world we live in.
James Hamilton did a varied and wide story about the markets in the past in the main street, and that we have raised over two million dollars in the life of the club; an extraordinary sum of money from one club. He also talked about Penny the pig who was before my time in rotary; it was also used as a fund raiser, and is still around at a members place apparently.
Our guests today were Helen Sturman and Barry Shields. Helen gave a fascinating and uplifting talk about special tricycles that pick up handicapped people who are housebound and take them (with a friend or carer) on e-bikes with two seats on the front and the driver behind. They stick to safe paths and the riders are all volunteers. The movement is called " Cycling without age "and is on the way to being global after starting in Copenhagen The are hoping to start chapters here, and need funds to buy the bikes; they are quite expensive. A video of the riders was quite moving seeing the smiles on the faces of the handicapped passengers.
David Benn did the secretaries report as Phil Burgess was away.
Doug Sutton is after help with RYDA which is coming up soon.
Frank Fuller has been ill recently so has not made recent meetings. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his attendance soon.
The 2 cupboards at the north Wagga Sheds are now in the very back room behind the curtains at the end of our meeting room. They contain the bits and pieces we need for each meeting. They are locked, and the key is obtainable for those rostered on furniture from the hotel office, returned after the meeting. It was hard yakka carrying the beasts from the shed to their current home.
The Board meeting on May will likely be the last before changeover, and that is coming up quickly.
All the best fellows and see you at our next meeting.
Todays meeting was small with about only 30 or so members attending. I would like to hope more of us would make the time to attend the weekly meetings. The meeting was busy and a lot was aired today.
David Benn had a guest, Robert Etchels, a retired group captain from the Australian air force. There were no visiting Rotarians.
David Byfield did members choice and entertained us with a host of interesting facts and statistics over a whole range of areas; quite interesting and a lot it made us think a bit about the world we live in.
James Hamilton did a varied and wide story about the markets in the past in the main street, and that we have raised over two million dollars in the life of the club; an extraordinary sum of money from one club. He also talked about Penny the pig who was before my time in rotary; it was also used as a fund raiser, and is still around at a members place apparently.
Our guests today were Helen Sturman and Barry Shields. Helen gave a fascinating and uplifting talk about special tricycles that pick up handicapped people who are housebound and take them (with a friend or carer) on e-bikes with two seats on the front and the driver behind. They stick to safe paths and the riders are all volunteers. The movement is called " Cycling without age "and is on the way to being global after starting in Copenhagen The are hoping to start chapters here, and need funds to buy the bikes; they are quite expensive. A video of the riders was quite moving seeing the smiles on the faces of the handicapped passengers.
David Benn did the secretaries report as Phil Burgess was away.
Doug Sutton is after help with RYDA which is coming up soon.
Frank Fuller has been ill recently so has not made recent meetings. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his attendance soon.
The 2 cupboards at the north Wagga Sheds are now in the very back room behind the curtains at the end of our meeting room. They contain the bits and pieces we need for each meeting. They are locked, and the key is obtainable for those rostered on furniture from the hotel office, returned after the meeting. It was hard yakka carrying the beasts from the shed to their current home.
The Board meeting on May will likely be the last before changeover, and that is coming up quickly. All the best fellows and see you at our next meeting. President Richard.
Helen Sturman and Barry Shields came to tell us about "Cycling without age"
Cycling without age is an organisation that commenced in Copenhagen ten years ago. Its aim is to give the elderly and disabled the opportunity to experience the pleasure of travelling in a tricycle. Each chapter is semi autonomous with the central body providing insurance and compliance with safety and health regulations.
Tumbarumba Rotary Club has purchased three tricycles which are made in Denmark and cost $18,000 each. The tricycles have a pilot and two side by side seats in front. They are driven by a electric motor and speed limited to 10 kph. Safety is of prime concern for the mostly frail passengers.
CWA (Cycling without age) has now spread to 52 countries with over 3,700 trishaws and 35,000 pilots (Riders). It arrived in Australia in 2016 and has a number of chapters in Australia.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE AUSTRALIA FACTS
First trishaws in Australia in 2016
Cycling Without Age Australia incorporated as a registered charity in 2019
Operational Chapters = 32
independently governed = 20
governed by Cycling Without Age Australia = 12
Number of Cycling Without AgeAffiliates = 40
Number of volunteers = approx. 500
Oldest volunteer = 79
Number of Cycling Without Age trishaws operating in Australia
independently owned = approx. 50
owned by Cycling Without Age Australia = 25
All pilots are volunteers and passengers are taken on set routes for no charge. CWA is a not for profit and seeks donations only to sustain itself.
Helen Sturman and Barry Shields came to tell us about "Cycling without age"
Cycling without age is an organisation that commenced in Copenhagen ten years ago. Its aim is to give the elderly and disabled the opportunity to experience the pleasure of travelling in a tricycle. Each chapter is semi autonomous with the central body providing insurance and compliance with safety and health regulations.
Tumbarumba Rotary Club has purchased three tricycles which are made in Denmark and cost $18,000 each. The tricycles have a pilot and two side by side seats in front. They are driven by a electric motor and speed limited to 10 kph. Safety is of prime concern for the mostly frail passengers.
CWA (Cycling without age) has now spread to 52 countries with over 3,700 trishaws and 35,000 pilots (Riders). It arrived in Australia in 2016 and has a number of chapters in Australia.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE AUSTRALIA FACTS
First trishaws in Australia in 2016
Cycling Without Age Australia incorporated as a registered charity in 2019
Operational Chapters = 32
independently governed = 20
governed by Cycling Without Age Australia = 12
Number of Cycling Without AgeAffiliates = 40
Number of volunteers = approx. 500
Oldest volunteer = 79
Number of Cycling Without Age trishaws operating in Australia
independently owned = approx. 50
owned by Cycling Without Age Australia = 25
All pilots are volunteers and passengers are taken on set routes for no charge. CWA is a not for profit and seeks donations only to sustain itself.
Helen Sturman and Barry Shields came to tell us about "Cycling without age"
Cycling without age is an organisation that commenced in Copenhagen ten years ago. Its aim is to give the elderly and disabled the opportunity to experience the pleasure of travelling in a tricycle. Each chapter is semi autonomous with the central body providing insurance and compliance with safety and health regulations.
Tumbarumba Rotary Club has purchased three tricycles which are made in Denmark and cost $18,000 each. The tricycles have a pilot and two side by side seats in front. They are driven by a electric motor and speed limited to 10 kph. Safety is of prime concern for the mostly frail passengers.
CWA (Cycling without age) has now spread to 52 countries with over 3,700 trishaws and 35,000 pilots (Riders). It arrived in Australia in 2016 and has a number of chapters in Australia.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE AUSTRALIA FACTS
First trishaws in Australia in 2016
Cycling Without Age Australia incorporated as a registered charity in 2019
Operational Chapters = 32
independently governed = 20
governed by Cycling Without Age Australia = 12
Number of Cycling Without AgeAffiliates = 40
Number of volunteers = approx. 500
Oldest volunteer = 79
Number of Cycling Without Age trishaws operating in Australia
independently owned = approx. 50
owned by Cycling Without Age Australia = 25
All pilots are volunteers and passengers are taken on set routes for no charge. CWA is a not for profit and seeks donations only to sustain itself.
Helen Sturman and Barry Shields came to tell us about "Cycling without age"
Cycling without age is an organisation that commenced in Copenhagen ten years ago. Its aim is to give the elderly and disabled the opportunity to experience the pleasure of travelling in a tricycle. Each chapter is semi autonomous with the central body providing insurance and compliance with safety and health regulations.
Tumbarumba Rotary Club has purchased three tricycles which are made in Denmark and cost $18,000 each. The tricycles have a pilot and two side by side seats in front. They are driven by a electric motor and speed limited to 10 kph. Safety is of prime concern for the mostly frail passengers.
CWA (Cycling without age) has now spread to 52 countries with over 3,700 trishaws and 35,000 pilots (Riders). It arrived in Australia in 2016 and has a number of chapters in Australia.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE AUSTRALIA FACTS
First trishaws in Australia in 2016
Cycling Without Age Australia incorporated as a registered charity in 2019
Operational Chapters = 32
independently governed = 20
governed by Cycling Without Age Australia = 12
Number of Cycling Without AgeAffiliates = 40
Number of volunteers = approx. 500
Oldest volunteer = 79
Number of Cycling Without Age trishaws operating in Australia
independently owned = approx. 50
owned by Cycling Without Age Australia = 25
All pilots are volunteers and passengers are taken on set routes for no charge. CWA is a not for profit and seeks donations only to sustain itself.
Our meeting commenced on time with Rotary grace and a welcome to visitors and guest speakers.
President Richard has pretty well summarised the meeting but there are couple of issues to elaborate on:
RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness). This program is to be run next week for all our Year 11 State High School students. It is a collaborative effort among our Wagga Clubs and Wollundry will be responsible for running Wednesday's session.
TEAM: OIC Michael Knight, John Egan, David Golland, Tim Hutchings, Johnn Flynn, Bill Parker, Stuart Heriot.
Time: 9 am sharp Wednesday 10th May Wagga Showgrounds. Ellen Brazier will show you your roles.
Proof of vaccinations required.
MEMBERS CHOICE
David Byfield did the honours with a series of interesting bits of trivia: deepest ocean trench, longest river etc. A useful addition to our bank of useless knowledge, but fun nevertheless.
STUART HERIOT
Stuart gets his own heading as he kept popping up and down with various pieces of information delivered with his usual tongue in cheek humour.
Firstly he told us that he has been in touch with Frank Fuller who is keen to get back to the club but is lying low because of his health concerns. He does not
want to catch covid.
Secondy, Stuart has procured a set of keys to our storage cabinets at the rear of our meeting room, through the kitchen all the way to the back. The keys, for those rostered on furniture, will be left with the main office downstairs. Well done Stuart on reorganising our storage facilities!
Rob Etchells, Group Capatain RAAF (retired) with David Benn who met Rob when they played together for the Kooringal Colts Cricket club.
MEMBERS DRAW
A hastily written attendance sheet on the back of an envelope (well done John Egan) produced a different numbering system for our draw and the lucky winner was Mal Robertson. Burmo, despite protests, was deprived of what otherwise might have been a win in normal circumstances. He was unanimously voted down.
James Hamilton gave a very interesting information session on Wollundry Rotary Club's years of fund raising via Sunday Markets. Here is his report:
Sunday Markets – further information
Collections from 1979 to Nov 1996 was equivalent to $1m, then from Nov 1996 to October 2009 the second $1m was raised. Sunday Market was placed into recess in March 2014. The total gross collections of $2,280,270 less total costs of $238,259 resulting in $2,020,167 donated to charitable organisations. 1994 was the best year collection of $102,716 with 250+ stall holders attending each Sunday with stall fee of $8 and entry donation of 50 cents.
Christmas Markets on Baylis street were conducted from 2000 to 2007 in early December which attracted over 10,000 people each year into the main street of Wagga Wagga
Special markets were conducted at Wagga Beach car park on Australia Day for 2016, 2017, & 2018.
Penny the Pig
Penny the pig was constructed in 1996 made from fibre glass and it was motorised by a golf buggy. The idea of Penny the pig was to collect coins from children at schools and elsewhere. The eye lids and tail of Penny would move when coins were placed into the slot and a sound would emanate from Penny. One & two cent coins were no longer used in the community so collecting those coins. The cost to construct was $28,000 and the collections over a couple of years was $26,000. Penny the pig was handed over to Annie St Claire foundation. Presently, Penny is sitting in Rob Vidler’s yard in Mortimer place.
PDG Dr Henry Gardiner
I had a catch up with Henry last week in Merimbula. He has joined Merimbula Rotary club. He sends his regards to all Wollundrians. Henry is PP of Goulburn rotary club (former 9710 district), and he is PP of Kooringal Rotary club (former 9700 district). As both districts have merged recently forming District 9705, as far as we know, Henry is the only Rotarian to be past President in both former districts.
ROTARY PROGRAMS
Rotary’s programs are developing the next generation of leaders, providing funding to make the world better place, and making peace a priority. Rotary programs are not just for club members but for general community members.
Seeking dynamic leaders to change themselves and the world?
One of the programs is Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs and districts where people develop their skills as a leader while having fun and making connections.
What are the benefits?
Connect with leaders in your community and around the world to:
Build communication and problem-solving skills
Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
Have fun and form lasting friendships
What’s involved?
RYLA events are organized locally by Rotary clubs and districts for participants ages 14-30. Depending on community needs, RYLA may take the form of a one-day seminar, a three-day retreat, or a weeklong camp. Typically, events last 3-10 days and include presentations, activities, and workshops covering a variety of topics. Wollundry Club has been organising RYLA at district level for a number of years.
Your community might host a RYLA event for secondary school students to hone their leadership potential, for university students to develop creative problem-solving strategies, or for young professionals to learn ethical business practices.
How can you participate?
RYLA participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs. Contact your local Rotary club to find out more about RYLA events in your area, how to apply, and any costs of getting involved.
Examples of Rotary in action
RYLA in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, USA, challenged more than 80 students to participate in outdoor activities that developed team building, problem solving, and communication.
Outside of Warwickshire, England, RYLA participants learned to work together to accomplish a task and build trust.
In Helsingborg, Sweden, students from around the world learned from community leaders how to find solutions to everyday challenges.
Two teams of young leaders in Malawi worked together in a race against other teams to complete challenges that required teamwork and communication.
WOLLUNDRY ROTARY CLUB - Secretary’s Report for Tuesday 03rdMay 2022
Next regular Meeting on Tuesday 10th May 2022
Rosters:
Fellowship ( John Flynn
Reception (Asst. Treas.): John Ferguson
Furnit David Foster
Bulle Doug Sutton
Member’s Choice Peter Clucas
Rotary Information: Robert Hennessy-Hawks
Technology Setup: Peter Wilesmith
Guest Speaker: Belinda Crain
Reminders:
Next Sat Market 14th May 2022
OIC – Tim Hutchings (for Col Duff)
Team: David Post (for Burmo),John Flynn (for Shane Carroll), P. Clucas, Doug Conkey (for Gerry Gerlach), Bill Parker (for D. Golland), J. Ireland, Mark Hillis (for J. Mason), A. Puckeridge, Doug Sutton, J. Shuter, David Benn (for John Smith), A. Whiting, D. Wishart.
Signs – James Hamilton
Members Birthdays:May 09 James Ross
Wedding Anniversary: May 07 - Margot and Paul Milde
Diary dates:
Sat Market 14th May 2022
Next Board Meeting Mon 16th May 2022 – Joint 21-22 and 22-23 Board Members
RYDA 10th - 13th May Wagga Showgrounds
District Training – Goulburn 14th May 2022
District Training – Parkes 21st May 2022
Wagga RC Book Fair 14th /15th May 2022 – Volunteers to Ellen Brasier.
International Rotary Convention 4th - 8th June 2022 – Houston Texas. Register Now.
Rotaract Changeover 18th June 2022
Wollundry Changeover 28th June 2022
Next District Conference 21-23 Oct 2022, Joyes Hall CSU – Detail on the District Website
Todays meeting was small with about only 30 or so members attending. I would like to hope more of us would make the time to attend the weekly meetings. The meeting was busy and a lot was aired today.
David Benn had a guest, Robert Etchels, a retired group captain from the Australian air force. There were no visiting Rotarians.
David Byfield did members choice and entertained us with a host of interesting facts and statistics over a whole range of areas; quite interesting and a lot it made us think a bit about the world we live in.
James Hamilton did a varied and wide story about the markets in the past in the main street, and that we have raised over two million dollars in the life of the club; an extraordinary sum of money from one club. He also talked about Penny the pig who was before my time in rotary; it was also used as a fund raiser, and is still around at a members place apparently.
Our guests today were Helen Sturman and Barry Shields. Helen gave a fascinating and uplifting talk about special tricycles that pick up handicapped people who are housebound and take them (with a friend or carer) on e-bikes with two seats on the front and the driver behind. They stick to safe paths and the riders are all volunteers. The movement is called " Cycling without age "and is on the way to being global after starting in Copenhagen The are hoping to start chapters here, and need funds to buy the bikes; they are quite expensive. A video of the riders was quite moving seeing the smiles on the faces of the handicapped passengers.
David Benn did the secretaries report as Phil Burgess was away.
Doug Sutton is after help with RYDA which is coming up soon.
Frank Fuller has been ill recently so has not made recent meetings. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his attendance soon.
The 2 cupboards at the north Wagga Sheds are now in the very back room behind the curtains at the end of our meeting room. They contain the bits and pieces we need for each meeting. They are locked, and the key is obtainable for those rostered on furniture from the hotel office, returned after the meeting. It was hard yakka carrying the beasts from the shed to their current home.
The Board meeting on May will likely be the last before changeover, and that is coming up quickly.
All the best fellows and see you at our next meeting.
James Hamilton gave a very interesting information session on Wollundry Rotary Club's years of fund raising via Sunday Markets. Here is his report:
Sunday Markets – further information
Collections from 1979 to Nov 1996 was equivalent to $1m, then from Nov 1996 to October 2009 the second $1m was raised. Sunday Market was placed into recess in March 2014. The total gross collections of $2,280,270 less total costs of $238,259 resulting in $2,020,167 donated to charitable organisations. 1994 was the best year collection of $102,716 with 250+ stall holders attending each Sunday with stall fee of $8 and entry donation of 50 cents.
Christmas Markets on Baylis street were conducted from 2000 to 2007 in early December which attracted over 10,000 people each year into the main street of Wagga Wagga
Special markets were conducted at Wagga Beach car park on Australia Day for 2016, 2017, & 2018.
Penny the Pig
Penny the pig was constructed in 1996 made from fibre glass and it was motorised by a golf buggy. The idea of Penny the pig was to collect coins from children at schools and elsewhere. The eye lids and tail of Penny would move when coins were placed into the slot and a sound would emanate from Penny. One & two cent coins were no longer used in the community so collecting those coins. The cost to construct was $28,000 and the collections over a couple of years was $26,000. Penny the pig was handed over to Annie St Claire foundation. Presently, Penny is sitting in Rob Vidler’s yard in Mortimer place.
PDG Dr Henry Gardiner
I had a catch up with Henry last week in Merimbula. He has joined Merimbula Rotary club. He sends his regards to all Wollundrians. Henry is PP of Goulburn rotary club (former 9710 district), and he is PP of Kooringal Rotary club (former 9700 district). As both districts have merged recently forming District 9705, as far as we know, Henry is the only Rotarian to be past President in both former districts.
ROTARY PROGRAMS
Rotary’s programs are developing the next generation of leaders, providing funding to make the world better place, and making peace a priority. Rotary programs are not just for club members but for general community members.
Seeking dynamic leaders to change themselves and the world?
One of the programs is Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs and districts where people develop their skills as a leader while having fun and making connections.
What are the benefits?
Connect with leaders in your community and around the world to:
Build communication and problem-solving skills
Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
Have fun and form lasting friendships
What’s involved?
RYLA events are organized locally by Rotary clubs and districts for participants ages 14-30. Depending on community needs, RYLA may take the form of a one-day seminar, a three-day retreat, or a weeklong camp. Typically, events last 3-10 days and include presentations, activities, and workshops covering a variety of topics. Wollundry Club has been organising RYLA at district level for a number of years.
Your community might host a RYLA event for secondary school students to hone their leadership potential, for university students to develop creative problem-solving strategies, or for young professionals to learn ethical business practices.
How can you participate?
RYLA participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs. Contact your local Rotary club to find out more about RYLA events in your area, how to apply, and any costs of getting involved.
Examples of Rotary in action
RYLA in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, USA, challenged more than 80 students to participate in outdoor activities that developed team building, problem solving, and communication.
Outside of Warwickshire, England, RYLA participants learned to work together to accomplish a task and build trust.
In Helsingborg, Sweden, students from around the world learned from community leaders how to find solutions to everyday challenges.
Two teams of young leaders in Malawi worked together in a race against other teams to complete challenges that required teamwork and communication.
WOLLUNDRY ROTARY CLUB - Secretary’s Report for Tuesday 03rdMay 2022
Next regular Meeting on Tuesday 10th May 2022
Rosters:
Fellowship ( John Flynn
Reception (Asst. Treas.): John Ferguson
Furnit David Foster
Bulle Doug Sutton
Member’s Choice Peter Clucas
Rotary Information: Robert Hennessy-Hawks
Technology Setup: Peter Wilesmith
Guest Speaker: Belinda Crain
Reminders:
Next Sat Market 14th May 2022
OIC – Tim Hutchings (for Col Duff)
Team: David Post (for Burmo),John Flynn (for Shane Carroll), P. Clucas, Doug Conkey (for Gerry Gerlach), Bill Parker (for D. Golland), J. Ireland, Mark Hillis (for J. Mason), A. Puckeridge, Doug Sutton, J. Shuter, David Benn (for John Smith), A. Whiting, D. Wishart.
Signs – James Hamilton
Members Birthdays:May 09 James Ross
Wedding Anniversary: May 07 - Margot and Paul Milde
Diary dates:
Sat Market 14th May 2022
Next Board Meeting Mon 16th May 2022 – Joint 21-22 and 22-23 Board Members
RYDA 10th - 13th May Wagga Showgrounds
District Training – Goulburn 14th May 2022
District Training – Parkes 21st May 2022
Wagga RC Book Fair 14th /15th May 2022 – Volunteers to Ellen Brasier.
International Rotary Convention 4th - 8th June 2022 – Houston Texas. Register Now.
Rotaract Changeover 18th June 2022
Wollundry Changeover 28th June 2022
Next District Conference 21-23 Oct 2022, Joyes Hall CSU – Detail on the District Website
Our meeting commenced on time with Rotary grace and a welcome to visitors and guest speakers.
President Richard has pretty well summarised the meeting but there are couple of issues to elaborate on:
RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness). This program is to be run next week for all our Year 11 State High School students. It is a collaborative effort among our Wagga Clubs and Wollundry will be responsible for running Wednesday's session.
TEAM: OIC Michael Knight, John Egan, David Golland, Tim Hutchings, Johnn Flynn, Bill Parker, Stuart Heriot.
Time: 9 am sharp Wednesday 10th May Wagga Showgrounds. Ellen Brazier will show you your roles.
Proof of vaccinations required.
MEMBERS CHOICE
David Byfield did the honours with a series of interesting bits of trivia: deepest ocean trench, longest river etc. A useful addition to our bank of useless knowledge, but fun nevertheless.
STUART HERIOT
Stuart gets his own heading as he kept popping up and down with various pieces of information delivered with his usual tongue in cheek humour.
Firstly he told us that he has been in touch with Frank Fuller who is keen to get back to the club but is lying low because of his health concerns. He does not
want to catch covid.
Secondy, Stuart has procured a set of keys to our storage cabinets at the rear of our meeting room, through the kitchen all the way to the back. The keys, for those rostered on furniture, will be left with the main office downstairs. Well done Stuart on reorganising our storage facilities!
Rob Etchells, Group Capatain RAAF (retired) with David Benn who met Rob when they played together for the Kooringal Colts Cricket club.
MEMBERS DRAW
A hastily written attendance sheet on the back of an envelope (well done John Egan) produced a different numbering system for our draw and the lucky winner was Mal Robertson. Burmo, despite protests, was deprived of what otherwise might have been a win in normal circumstances. He was unanimously voted down.
Todays meeting was small with about only 30 or so members attending. I would like to hope more of us would make the time to attend the weekly meetings. The meeting was busy and a lot was aired today.
David Benn had a guest, Robert Etchels, a retired group captain from the Australian air force. There were no visiting Rotarians.
David Byfield did members choice and entertained us with a host of interesting facts and statistics over a whole range of areas; quite interesting and a lot it made us think a bit about the world we live in.
James Hamilton did a varied and wide story about the markets in the past in the main street, and that we have raised over two million dollars in the life of the club; an extraordinary sum of money from one club. He also talked about Penny the pig who was before my time in rotary; it was also used as a fund raiser, and is still around at a members place apparently.
Our guests today were Helen Sturman and Barry Shields. Helen gave a fascinating and uplifting talk about special tricycles that pick up handicapped people who are housebound and take them (with a friend or carer) on e-bikes with two seats on the front and the driver behind. They stick to safe paths and the riders are all volunteers. The movement is called " Cycling without age "and is on the way to being global after starting in Copenhagen The are hoping to start chapters here, and need funds to buy the bikes; they are quite expensive. A video of the riders was quite moving seeing the smiles on the faces of the handicapped passengers.
David Benn did the secretaries report as Phil Burgess was away.
Doug Sutton is after help with RYDA which is coming up soon.
Frank Fuller has been ill recently so has not made recent meetings. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his attendance soon.
The 2 cupboards at the north Wagga Sheds are now in the very back room behind the curtains at the end of our meeting room. They contain the bits and pieces we need for each meeting. They are locked, and the key is obtainable for those rostered on furniture from the hotel office, returned after the meeting. It was hard yakka carrying the beasts from the shed to their current home.
The Board meeting on May will likely be the last before changeover, and that is coming up quickly.
All the best fellows and see you at our next meeting.
Our meeting commenced on time with Rotary grace and a welcome to visitors and guest speakers.
President Richard has pretty well summarised the meeting but there are couple of issues to elaborate on:
RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness). This program is to be run next week for all our Year 11 State High School students. It is a collaborative effort among our Wagga Clubs and Wollundry will be responsible for running Wednesday's session.
TEAM: OIC Michael Knight, John Egan, David Golland, Tim Hutchings, Johnn Flynn, Bill Parker, Stuart Heriot.
Time: 9 am sharp Wednesday 10th May Wagga Showgrounds. Ellen Brazier will show you your roles.
Proof of vaccinations required.
MEMBERS CHOICE
David Byfield did the honours with a series of interesting bits of trivia: deepest ocean trench, longest river etc. A useful addition to our bank of useless knowledge, but fun nevertheless.
STUART HERIOT
Stuart gets his own heading as he kept popping up and down with various pieces of information delivered with his usual tongue in cheek humour.
Firstly he told us that he has been in touch with Frank Fuller who is keen to get back to the club but is lying low because of his health concerns. He does not
want to catch covid.
Secondy, Stuart has procured a set of keys to our storage cabinets at the rear of our meeting room, through the kitchen all the way to the back. The keys, for those rostered on furniture, will be left with the main office downstairs. Well done Stuart on reorganising our storage facilities!
Rob Etchells, Group Capatain RAAF (retired) with David Benn who met Rob when they played together for the Kooringal Colts Cricket club.
MEMBERS DRAW
A hastily written attendance sheet on the back of an envelope (well done John Egan) produced a different numbering system for our draw and the lucky winner was Mal Robertson. Burmo, despite protests, was deprived of what otherwise might have been a win in normal circumstances. He was unanimously voted down.
James Hamilton gave a very interesting information session on Wollundry Rotary Club's years of fund raising via Sunday Markets. Here is his report:
Sunday Markets – further information
Collections from 1979 to Nov 1996 was equivalent to $1m, then from Nov 1996 to October 2009 the second $1m was raised. Sunday Market was placed into recess in March 2014. The total gross collections of $2,280,270 less total costs of $238,259 resulting in $2,020,167 donated to charitable organisations. 1994 was the best year collection of $102,716 with 250+ stall holders attending each Sunday with stall fee of $8 and entry donation of 50 cents.
Christmas Markets on Baylis street were conducted from 2000 to 2007 in early December which attracted over 10,000 people each year into the main street of Wagga Wagga
Special markets were conducted at Wagga Beach car park on Australia Day for 2016, 2017, & 2018.
Penny the Pig
Penny the pig was constructed in 1996 made from fibre glass and it was motorised by a golf buggy. The idea of Penny the pig was to collect coins from children at schools and elsewhere. The eye lids and tail of Penny would move when coins were placed into the slot and a sound would emanate from Penny. One & two cent coins were no longer used in the community so collecting those coins. The cost to construct was $28,000 and the collections over a couple of years was $26,000. Penny the pig was handed over to Annie St Claire foundation. Presently, Penny is sitting in Rob Vidler’s yard in Mortimer place.
PDG Dr Henry Gardiner
I had a catch up with Henry last week in Merimbula. He has joined Merimbula Rotary club. He sends his regards to all Wollundrians. Henry is PP of Goulburn rotary club (former 9710 district), and he is PP of Kooringal Rotary club (former 9700 district). As both districts have merged recently forming District 9705, as far as we know, Henry is the only Rotarian to be past President in both former districts.
ROTARY PROGRAMS
Rotary’s programs are developing the next generation of leaders, providing funding to make the world better place, and making peace a priority. Rotary programs are not just for club members but for general community members.
Seeking dynamic leaders to change themselves and the world?
One of the programs is Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs and districts where people develop their skills as a leader while having fun and making connections.
What are the benefits?
Connect with leaders in your community and around the world to:
Build communication and problem-solving skills
Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
Have fun and form lasting friendships
What’s involved?
RYLA events are organized locally by Rotary clubs and districts for participants ages 14-30. Depending on community needs, RYLA may take the form of a one-day seminar, a three-day retreat, or a weeklong camp. Typically, events last 3-10 days and include presentations, activities, and workshops covering a variety of topics. Wollundry Club has been organising RYLA at district level for a number of years.
Your community might host a RYLA event for secondary school students to hone their leadership potential, for university students to develop creative problem-solving strategies, or for young professionals to learn ethical business practices.
How can you participate?
RYLA participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs. Contact your local Rotary club to find out more about RYLA events in your area, how to apply, and any costs of getting involved.
Examples of Rotary in action
RYLA in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, USA, challenged more than 80 students to participate in outdoor activities that developed team building, problem solving, and communication.
Outside of Warwickshire, England, RYLA participants learned to work together to accomplish a task and build trust.
In Helsingborg, Sweden, students from around the world learned from community leaders how to find solutions to everyday challenges.
Two teams of young leaders in Malawi worked together in a race against other teams to complete challenges that required teamwork and communication.
WOLLUNDRY ROTARY CLUB - Secretary’s Report for Tuesday 03rdMay 2022
Next regular Meeting on Tuesday 10th May 2022
Rosters:
Fellowship ( John Flynn
Reception (Asst. Treas.): John Ferguson
Furnit David Foster
Bulle Doug Sutton
Member’s Choice Peter Clucas
Rotary Information: Robert Hennessy-Hawks
Technology Setup: Peter Wilesmith
Guest Speaker: Belinda Crain
Reminders:
Next Sat Market 14th May 2022
OIC – Tim Hutchings (for Col Duff)
Team: David Post (for Burmo),John Flynn (for Shane Carroll), P. Clucas, Doug Conkey (for Gerry Gerlach), Bill Parker (for D. Golland), J. Ireland, Mark Hillis (for J. Mason), A. Puckeridge, Doug Sutton, J. Shuter, David Benn (for John Smith), A. Whiting, D. Wishart.
Signs – James Hamilton
Members Birthdays:May 09 James Ross
Wedding Anniversary: May 07 - Margot and Paul Milde
Diary dates:
Sat Market 14th May 2022
Next Board Meeting Mon 16th May 2022 – Joint 21-22 and 22-23 Board Members
RYDA 10th - 13th May Wagga Showgrounds
District Training – Goulburn 14th May 2022
District Training – Parkes 21st May 2022
Wagga RC Book Fair 14th /15th May 2022 – Volunteers to Ellen Brasier.
International Rotary Convention 4th - 8th June 2022 – Houston Texas. Register Now.
Rotaract Changeover 18th June 2022
Wollundry Changeover 28th June 2022
Next District Conference 21-23 Oct 2022, Joyes Hall CSU – Detail on the District Website
As you know I was laid low by Covid last week and was quarentinong at home for a wee. Luckily it was only a mild case, just left a bit tired now so early nights still
I am told the Gears and Beers was a great success so congratulations to the members for all their hard work in difficult times. Also thanks for those who worked on the days of the event.
Today was yet again a busy one. David Benn used members choice to spruke a book launch in Wagga coming up soo. Refer to David if interested. We had a visiting rotatian from southern England who was made welcome.
David Pyke used Rotary information to discuss Foundation. THey have done a olt of good in the world such as polio being eliminated in nearly all the world as an example (in association with the Gates foundation). What he also was to let us know of the huge amount of money they have banked and invested rather than spending; the figures were over a billion dollars. He felt prganisations like Care van could do with some help.
Our guest speaker today was Gary Morrison, a retired RAAF engineer. He worked on our jets (Hornets and Mirages) and fascinated us with how to fix problems of stability, oxygen supplies, and several other issues. His work was recognised by the USA airforces for modifications that he made that could not be done in the states. The RAAF were the better for his expertise. Members draw was won by our English visitor so he went off with a nice bottle of wine.
James Ross did the secretaries job as secretary Phil is away for a short while.
Have a good week and try to make the meetings if you can.
A reminder the change dinner is on Tuesday the 28th of June. Again if any one or their spouses have dietary issues I need to know in the next week please.
President Richard in lockdown. John Egan also in lockdown and Bob Willis on LOA due to health issues. Hope all are well soon.
A sensational result for Phil McIntosh, the Gears and Beers Festival Committee and the Rotary Club of Wollundry Wagga Wagga over the weekend. A lot of planning, preparation and dedication culminated in an a very professional result with accolades from all quarters. As Phil says it is a great brand and we have to protect and foster it.
A tenacious effort by Peter Wilesmith, to recover so positively from a very serious cycle accident. Peter's dedication to the work required to come back is admirable. As he says he is as fit as he has ever been in his life and eager to participate in life. That dedication and tenacity will serve the Club well as he takes on the role of Treasurer next year. Well done.
Peter Mackinnon and Mark Hillis are literally throwing caution to wind this week as they intend to sail north from Sydney up the coast into some forecast wild weather. Sail safely boys.
The combined Rotary Clubs of Wagga are keen to have the Service Club's Website established. Paul Murray has agreed to reinvigorate the Website after receiving commitment
from all concerned. If used correctly it will provide a great billboard for all Clubs to use. A knowledge of what others are doing around us is beneficial.
I will be taking a week off next week, to travel with "The Grange" caravanners. A trip to the Central West region of NSW, organised by our fellow Rotarian Doug Sutton and his wife Kay. Our tribal name is the Village People Travellers. Looking forward to it. See you in a couple of weeks.
David Benn was the entertainment at the Conference Dinner in the Aviation Museum Hanger
The Rotary International Presidents Representative (RIPR) at the District Conference was Kathy Fahy. She is pictured with Paul and Carolyn Murray. Kathy is a PDG from Iowa USA and was DG over Pauls district in Iowa.
Members of the District Comms & IT Committee celebrate with RIPR Kathy Fahy. From left, John Egan, RIPR Kathy, Comms Chair Emma Bell, Paul Murray and Rob Shore (Parkes)
The adult band at last weeks Saturday Markets
The childrens band at last weeks Saturday Markets
We had good attendance at the last G&B Meeting, including Croz from London....interested but dozing. See upper right and enlarged photo below
John told us of an amazing aviation event he attends as regularly as he can. The EAA Airventure at Oshkosh in Wisconsin started in its present form in 1969, growing from a backyard organisation for aircraft restorers by Paul Poberezny.
Oshkosh has a population of around 66,000, but 700,000 people descend on it in the last week in July. There are upwards of 10,000 aircraft on the ground at any one time. That's more than all the registered aircraft in Australia! Every manufacturer in the world is represented, including AirVan, Jabiru and Brumby from Australia.
There are aerial displays by night and day, and almost every experimental aircraft being considered. Warbirds from the past, to the restricted F22, along with huge "fly-ins" from enthusiasts of aircraft types such as Mooney, Cirrus, Cessna and Beechcraft. You can get up close and personal with the U2 and Blackbird spy planes of the Cold War, and buy anything from wings, nuts or jet engines!
It is a fantastic event, and well worth the visit even if you don't fly!
Peter Green and Rotary Information
Peter spoke of the CSU Scholarship which we have been part of since 1992. John Ashton was president that year and at the suggestion of the District Governor of the time, undertook to establish the Scholarships. Burmo was one of the driving forces behind this and insisted that it be a Science based programme, as we are a rural, agricultural area.
In the time we have given over $200,000 to students, and as far as we can ascertain, all of our selected students have completed their studies.
This is a testament to the small committee who vet the students carefully and award the scholarships according to ability, need and likelyhood of completion. It is awarded to rural based students.
Phil Macintosh took the opportunity to thank everyone for the enormous support he has felt in the organisation of The Gears and Beers event. He spoke highly of the Coolamon Club for their ability to get things done, and their willingness to assist on the day.
We just need the Traffic Management Plan approved and we are ready to go!
Please be sure to get your name down on the rosters. Yes you are needed!
John Gray also asked that we get as many as possible to Hammond Ave THURSDAY at 9.30 to pack bags. Unit 3 181 Hammond Avenue. The entrance is off Gillard Rd, the first street on the left after the Caltex Service Station, when heading East.
The Saturday Market Report
OIC James Hamilton reported a beautiful Autumn day with many people taking advantage of a day out.
The team, Richard Baguley, David Pyke, Peter Clucas, Wal Paton, Peter Green, Craig Bromley, Stuart Herriot, David Hodge, John Egan, Paul Murray, Robert Pearson, Neil Schirmer, and Steve Anderson worked together like a well oiled machine, returning some $3000 for the day. The BBQ was back in our hands and the team had to send out for supplies twice, and at least two stall holders had sold out by 11am. James recommends that we provide EFPOS machines for each gate as we are rapidly becoming cashless (The same is happening at the Club meetings). Another note to the BBQ people to put perishables into the fridge at North Wagga on return.
The crew after pickup went out to Hammond Ave to set up for the bag packing, delivering 30 tables. (This has been suggested as a second makeup....but that's up to James.:):):)
Paul Murray learning the superior qualities of the Apple Watch from Neil Schirmer.
Make Ups, Apologies and Guests.
Apologies: Craig Bromley, John Flynn, Frank Fuller, David Hodge, John Mason, Jonty Shuter, Darren Wallace.
Guests. Mayan Burmeister
Doug Sutton won the bottle of wine on the fifth attempt. It was drawn by Mayan, who was sitting beside him!!
Andrew, one of our own members, is chairman of Riverina Water, which is heavily dependant on electricity to move water around the city and to run the purification plants. Recently they won an award for the most improved Water Supply Utility in the state which was a big achievement
They have decided to become carbon neutral within the next 10 years, and have bought land to establish a Solar Array which will cover 5 acres. This will more than supply the current needs of the plant and coupled with a 5MgW battery system will be able to operate all year round. He reckons that will cut down some 9000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, and hopefully stabilise the climate to some degree. Eventually they will have electric heavy vehicles as well, and not into the distant future. These are already operating in other areas
Our guest speaker Jack Hillis pictured at Rotary in 2017 with his Dad.
David Hodge, a longtime friend of Mark, introduced Jack whom he has known since he was a "little Tacker" David recalled how Jack and his young brother while still only boys, travelled to Philip Island on the back of motor bikes with their father and David. He said Jack was here to speak about the Caravan Industry and how that story has evolved since Jack took over from his Dad in 2017.
Jack, pictured with his family, is the Managing Director of Wagga Caravan Centre, located at Gumly. He began his talk by saying that he is often recognised as Mark's son by the way he walks. He is proud of his heritage and pays tribute to his Father and others who have mentored him into the business.
Caravanning is the new travel mode for those who have been unable to venture overseas, but surprisingly the main demographic buying new caravans is the 25 to 40 age group. Low interest rates have enabled people to borrow and buy a $60,000 van for $250 per week. Many purchasers have children so multi accommodation vans are very popular. The new technology in vans allow free camping providing you have sufficient water.
There are 240 + caravan manufacturers in Australia. Most of them are small operators who outsource all the componentary and provide little after sales service. Wagga Caravans pledge to service all components e.g. fridges, air conditioners, plumbing etc. This is a fairly unique service and is appreciated by customers who come from as far afield as Darwin. In fact only about 20% of their customers are from the 2650 postcode. Wagga caravans has enjoyed an 800% increase in sales in the past eighteen months. The demand is so great that there is an 18 month wait for new van orders.
Wagga Caravans was started in 2008 by Jack's Dad, Mark. At the time Golf caravans were their brand. The move to the leisure centre was dampened by the GFC. Jack entered the industry in 2017 to work with Mark but 5 months later Mark had his third heart surgery and decided to call it quits and left the business in Jack's hands. Turning around the very poor customer service was the first priority Jack had to deal with. This exercise has been successful and the same 5 mechanics who started four years ago are still employed.
Wagga Caravans has four major offerings. Their premier brand is Lotus. A lower priced offering is Retreat Caravans. Coldstream fill the pop-top category and Cub Campers are the low cost offering suiting a different type of camping. Each year about 100 Premier brands are sold, while 250 vans in total are sold annually. The average sale price is $119,000.
Working for the next transaction is is Jack's business philosophy which he instils in his employees.
In addition to caravans, Barbecues and other auxiliary equipment is sold to entice a flow through of customers. Jack thinks the future may not be so certain with the prediction of rising interest rates but to him it is a challenge and not an obstacle.
A vote of thanks was given by Peter Clucas who was formerly employed at Hillis Ford and who has also know Jack since he was a small boy. Peter was full of praise for Jack and advised him to follow his Father's example. Everyone enjoyed the talk and gave Jack a round of applause
David Byfield and Graeme Burmeister (Burmo) at todays's meeting. John Gray reminded us that David and his father Eric were referenced in Saturday's Daily Advertiser in the historical section. John reminisced on what a lovely couple David's parents were. They were John's banking clients way back.
Burmo is returning after a spell of illness.
President Elect Phil Burgess ran today's meeting in Richard's absence. We opened with the usual Rotary Grace and a welcome to Burmo who has been absent for a few meetings due to ill health. Keep up the good work Burmo.
Rick Priest told us that Kev and Lyndal Watts could do with some support. Lyndal is continuing to fade and so it was decided to purchase a card and circulate it for members to sign and Rick would deliver it.
WORDLE
Have you caught up with the latest word puzzle. If not give it a crack. It is quite addictive. Invented by a UK academic to entertain his wife in Covid lockdown, it has gone viral on the internet and was sold to the New York Times a couple of days ago for a seven figure sum.
To try it out simply google www.powerlanguage.co.uk and away you go.
Here is today's example, my best effort yet taking only two lines to solve the puzzle. There is a bit of luck involved in guessing a good first word, after that a bit of logic and deduction is required.
MEMBERS CHOICE
David Pyke was today's presenter and he told us a very interesting story of his family who operated the Coolamon Flour Mill from the 1880's for almost a century. Started originally as a timber mill by his great grandfather who had an impressive name, it was converted to milling flour when his ancestor realised that the high quality grain grown in the district, would produce top quality flour and profits would be better than earned through timber. The demand was also greater.
The mill was steam driven till the 1950's when it was converted to electricity. The original sheds still stand and the steam engine can be seen in the Coolamon historical museum.
When David was a boy he used to go to the mill on occasions to see the bags of grain stacked in rows 8 bags high. Each bag weighed 180lbs, roughly 80 kilos. One employee, Doug Collins, used carry two bags at once, one on each shoulder. What would OH&S say about that these days. David couldn't stay long at the mill as his asthma would react to the flour. The Mill was the largest employer in Coolamon and the flour produced achieved 1st prize for best quality flour at the Sydney Show. Not bad for some immigrants from Devon England.
The mill had six resident cats and therefore no mice!
David saved a very interesting story till last. During World War One, Sid Nest, an employee volunteered and served on the Western Front. Pyke's Mill sent a lot of 5 kilo flour bags full of clothing and food for the troops. Incredibly Sid was one of the recipients and he used the empty flour bag to write about his situation in indelible pencil. He also wrote down the names and serial numbers of the men in the trench with him. The Pyke family donated this important piece of memorabilia to the Canberra War Memorial where it can be seen today. This story generated quite a bit of discussion.
A very interesting story, well told.
FOOD AND WINE
Phil Burgess made a few points not included in the secretary's report.
Advertising on both Radio and TV
Online sales are low but not overly concerning as Wagga is renowned for late booking.
1500 customers is our break even target.
We are allowed to have in excess of 3000. QR code is not required.
69 workers are required to man all work stations on the day.
There are 15 RSA's and some may need to do a double shift.
Paul Milde will be returning to run the control office from Mates Gully Restaurant.
Make sure you are on the Roster.
MAKEUPS AND APOLOGIES
There were 30 attendees at today's meeting. Apologies were made by:
Paul Murray, Doug Conkey, Richard Baguley, Andrew Crakanthorp, John Egan, Frank Fuller, Robert Hennesy-Hawks, Stuart Heriot, Tim Hutchings, John Ireland, Chris Kelly, John Mason, Neil Shirmer, Jonty Shuter, Peter Wilesmith
Makeups were: D, Byfield, D. Pyke, P. Burgess, C. Bromley, P, MacKinnon, J. Smith, C. Duff, D. Benn, J. Ferguson, G. Breust, D. Foster, D. Post.
DRAW PRIZE
The lucky winner of the bottle of wine was Peter Crozier
Also a thank you to Geoff Breust who went to some effort to produce a number of entertaining photos of Aeroplanes in unusual situations.
Our meeting was light on with information today and most has been covered by our President and Secretary. There were however a couple of items that should be noted:
Graeme Obst has resigned from our club due to work commitments. Thank you Graeme for contribution over your time with the club, we hope you will come back to visit from time to time. You will be always welcome.
Paul Murray spoke about a new website browser that can link to our Rotary Club Website. This will allow searchers to find out what is on in Wagga and to see what activities any organisation linked to the website is pursuing, including our Rotary Club.
Members Choice was an impromtu performance by Phil Burgess who claims descent from Ethelred who ruled in Northumbria between 950 and 1016. Phil gave a credible history of his family which prompted others to give various versions of their ancestry. John Flynn told us his Irish convict ancestor was transported to NSW for shooting his OWN pig!
David Byfield reminded members to volunteer their services for the FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL, by nominating a time to work on the sheets which were passed around during the meeting.
Geoff Breust is looking for GUEST SPEAKERS. Preferably those who have an interesting or informative story to tell.
The entertainment for 2022 includes great local acts Deja Groove, Mollie Waters,
Groove Factorie and Nathan Lamont.
We support our Riverina musicians after a tough few years.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the day's entertainment presented live on stage and
via the big screen TV.
With entertainers tokeep the whole family amused, you will be able to put your feet up
while the kids play happily.
The festival will be held in the picturesque Victory Memorial Gardens.
From humble beginnings, the festival has become a stand-alone annual event
which attracts more than 4,000 people.
The festival gives local wineries and food and dining outlets an opportunity to showcase
their goods. As a stall holder, whereelse could you go and show off your products and
abilities to over 4,000 people in one day. As a patron, where else could you go and sample a great variety of food and wines as well as Yenda Beers and ciders.
You will be entertained continuously and we have distractions for your children whilst you enjoy the atmosphere.
Top Local Entertainers Booked for the Food and Wine Festival
Today was the first day back after the Xmas break, The numbers were down today as still holiday period. I had a great Xmas with my family in the ACT at a resort, then later went to Tumburumba with friends and went to the Rodeo there; an experience!
It was a fairly quiet affair today with no guest speaker and no rotary information, nor members choice. This left a lot of time for fellowship. There was a change with NO singing, just recited the rotary grace and the national anthem at the end. This was very hit and miss but I am sure we will improve. This is going to be that way for a while I suspect; it wasn't too bad for a first attempt. David Byfield spoke very briefly filling rosters for the upcoming gears and beers festival; no doubt it will be sorted soon. Let's hope it goes ahead.
Rick Priest told us of his disastrous episode of trying to get to the PCYC Xmas function dressed as S anta. His lift forgot, and then tried the fire brigade but they can only take someone half a kilometer! Finally he arrived late in a police car!
At our next meeting district governor Leo Farrely and local area Elaine Almond will be attending to talk on their roles in Rotary and looking for volunteers to follow them in due course; Pleas try to attend if you can.
I note some members have not paid their dues. If you have a problem please let us know so we can help you.
For those still away safe and healthy travels and look forward to seeing you all soon.
The penultimate meeting for the year, how time flies. President Richard's term is half over. It is anticipated that we will resume on 11th Jan 2022. To be confirmed after the Board Meeting on 20th.
Thank you to Chrissie and Mark Hillis for hosting the Club's Christmas Party last Sunday.
John Smith reported on another successful Saturday Market.
Michael Knight stepped in for Andrew Puckeridge and related to us the history of his previously owned Butchery Business Building in Fitzmaurice St Wagga.
Maddie Hewson, one of our CSU Scholarship recipients attended and thanked the Club for their it's support. Well done to Peter Green for organising that.
The Guest Speaker, Brett Fellows, described the history of his working life, and gave a detailed description of his current business, Intellifleet. The business has grown successfully over time into a thriving enterprise. Brett gave recognition to our fellow Rotarian, Craig Bromley for his support and guidance in the early years.
Wagga City Rugby Men's Choir conveyed thanks to the Club for our support in the provision of an AED for it's use.
Preparations for the Food and Wine Festival are progressing on schedule. The liquor license has been secured, and negotiations are under way to finalise traffic management requirements, ground security, sponsorship and equipment hire.
The last Board meeting for the year will be next Monday 20th Dec 5:30pm at the Ambassador Room Romano's Hotel. Committee chairs please forward their reports to their respective Directors.
Diary Dates:
The next Board Meeting - Mon 20th Dec 2021- 5:30pm - Ambassador Room Romano's Hotel
The next Food and Wine Meeting - Tue 21st Dec - 5:30pm Michael Knight residence, Unit 7/18 Day St Wagga.
The next Gears and Beers Meeting - Wed 12th Jan 2022 - 5:30pm at Commins Hendriks.
International Women's Day - Tues 8th Feb 2022.
PETS Training - 12/13th Feb 2022 - Cooma.
Food and Wine Festival - 19th Feb 2022.
District Conference - 19/20th March 2022 - Temora.
Gears and Beers Festival - 26/27th March 2022.
International Rotary Convention - 4th - 8th June 2022 - Houston Texas.
The penultimate meeting for the year, how time flies. President Richard's term is half over.It is anticipated that we will resume on 11th Jan 2022. To be confirmed after the Board Meeting on 20th.
Thank you to Chrissie and Mark Hillis for hosting the Club's Christmas Party last Sunday.
John Smith reported on another successful Saturday Market.
Michael Knight stepped in for Andrew Puckeridge and related to us the history of his previously owned Butchery Business Building in Fitzmaurice St Wagga.
Maddie Hewson, one of our CSU Scholarship recipients attended and thanked the Club for their it's support. Well done to Peter Green for organising that.
The Guest Speaker, Brett Fellows, described the history of his working life, and gave a detailed description of his current business, Intellifleet. The business has grown successfully over time into a thriving enterprise. Brett gave recognition to our fellow Rotarian, Craig Bromley for his support and guidance in the early years.
Wagga City Rugby Men's Choir conveyed thanks to the Club for our support in the provision of an AED for it's use.
Preparations for the Food and Wine Festival are progressing on schedule. The liquor license has been secured, and negotiations are under way to finalise traffic management requirements, ground security, sponsorship and equipment hire.
The last Board meeting for the year will be next Monday 20th Dec 5:30pm at the Ambassador Room Romano's Hotel. Committee chairs please forward their reports to their respective Directors.
Diary Dates:
The next Board Meeting - Mon 20th Dec 2021- 5:30pm - Ambassador Room Romano's Hotel
The next Food and Wine Meeting - Tue 21st Dec - 5:30pm Michael Knight residence, Unit 7/18 Day St Wagga.
The next Gears and Beers Meeting - Wed 12th Jan 2022 - 5:30pm at Commins Hendriks.
International Women's Day - Tues 8th Feb 2022.
PETS Training - 12/13th Feb 2022 - Cooma.
Food and Wine Festival - 19th Feb 2022.
District Conference - 19/20th March 2022 - Temora.
Gears and Beers Festival - 26/27th March 2022.
International Rotary Convention - 4th - 8th June 2022 - Houston Texas.
David Pyke provided the previous years (2020 - 21) Financial Statement. The supporting club documents are printed below and are only avaliable in the members version of the Bulletin.
David Pyke provided the previous years (2020 - 21) Financial Statement. The supporting club documents are printed below and are only avaliable in the members version of the Bulletin.
This is coming from Tumbarumba, a cold and wet place when we arrived yesterday. We are sharing the caravan park facilities with 35 other people from The Grange.
We will be sampling the local restaurants and wineries all week. So carry on fellows, I will be back next week for the AGM.
Thank you to IPP James Ross for standing in this week.
Michael Knight used his Members Choice to bring back the old but not forgotten Sergeant session.
He started by fining John Egan for collecting money before Michael had the opportunity to name the victims.
He then fined our speaker Mayor Conkey for not clearly distinguishing the capital investments which are going to the RIFL rail project from those government funds going to the Wagga gun club that has been so frequently in the news.
Michael proceeded to fine Neil Pinto for not appropriately wearing the supporting colours and banners for the Indian cricket team.
He then fined John Gray for his photo which appeared in the paper resembling an old area farmer.
Christmas Party December 12th
Peter Mackinnon and Mark Hillis came to the podium and announced the details for the Christmas party. they are as follows:
Date: Dec 12th
Time: 4:00 pm
Catering: Lime Leaf Caterers.
Drinks: BYO
Location: Mark and Chris Hillis residence.30 Riverview Drive
Directions: From Sturt Highway at the Silvalite Fuel Stop, turn North on McNickle Road and go past the Golf view Motel for 650 metres. Turn left on Roach Road and go 400 metres. Turn left again on to Riverview Drive and the Hillis home is on your right.
A number of electric bikes will be supplied by both Mark and Peter for members to test drive. There are quite roads around Mark and Chris's home.
Please email Peter Mackinnon on petermackinnon@hotmail.com by next Tuesday the 16th whether you will be attending or not.
Vendors Need Public Liability Insurance
James Hamilton finformed members regarding the Public Liability Insurance responsibilities of Market Vendors, and our responsibility as a Club to ensure that Vendors have Public Liability Insurance coverage while operating within our Markets.
Wollundry Members Back at Work for RAWCS
Ken Engsmyr from the Rotary Club of Parkes was a visiting Rotarian at our club on Tuesday. Ken was meeting with Stuart Heriot, Tim Hutchings and Paul Murray to re-establish the working team co-ordinating a second round of distribution of funds to farmers and rural communities impacted by the past drought.
Several years ago, Ken and the above three Wollundry members distributed one million dollars to farmers through a RAWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service) program funded by the Federal government. Another round of funding has been made avaliable and the team has been asked to come together again and contact some 400 farmers and facilitate the distribution of debit cards in the amount of $500 per farmer. The funding is intended to support western rural communities still under financial stress from the drought/Covid19 impacts.
Don't Miss the Rotary Movie
The joint Rotary Clubs of Wagga will conduct a Premiere screening of the new James Bond movie "No Time to Die' at Forum 6 Cinemas Thursday 11th November 2021 . Screening at 7pm . This is a joint fundraising venture for all Rotary clubs to raise funds towards a program to support Wagga's Homeless. Everyone is welcome to attend . Tickets are $20 plus fees, online through www.trybooking.com/BUWQE
Tickets are on sale NOW-tickets are emailed to the purchaser and have bar-code and QR code as identifiers. Sales will determine whether a second cinema is needed. On arrival at the cinema As at :18 Oct, 2021 arrangements for cinemagoers are: - need to be double vaccinated and able to show proof - wear a mask and QR code log in & show Forum 6 staff - seating will be at 75% capacity and is currently capped at 300 which would need 2 cinemas
"Nude Boot Scootin" and "Let's Get a Cow" were two songs that our guest speaker sang to entertain us and he did that to great effect. Grant Luhrs, an accomplished song writer and singer, gave us an interesting insight into his life and the music industry.
Grant has not always been an entertainer. He played Australian Rules football professionally including in six winning grand final sides, in 1982 he came to Wagga.
In introducing Grant, Past President Geoff Breust said he first met him at a Tourism Wagga stand in Sydney. The purpose was to showcase what our city has to offer. Kay Hull, former member for Wagga, was president of Tourism Wagga and had invited Grant to be part of the promotion. The Wagga stand was very popular, thanks to Grant's singing and playing with people dancing and joining in. Geoff described Grant as a big supporter of Wagga.
Beginning his address, Grant said hello to the Zoomers and thanked Rotary for the meal, the first decent one he has had in twelve months, he said, so tough are things in the music industry. The nature of the industry has changed with the digital revolution. Creative people have taken a big hit. Royalties have reduced, CD sales have dropped, digital streams pay about 1c for 1,000 streams on spotify.
Artists have therefore turned to live performances to earn a decent income. This has increased competition from overseas artists and of course Covid has restricted this form of entertainment severely.
In 1982, Grant came to Wagga with his first big song "Let's get a cow". This song became very popular and was promoted by Macca on ABC Sunday Radio. Macca and Grant are mates. Chad Morgan also sang this song which Grant felt extremely happy about as it was testament to its popularity in the world of country music.
Grant has a recording studio here in Wagga and his band is known as "The Chook Raffle Band". On a trip to China for Music Festival, this name proved difficult to translate the meaning into Chinese. Something like the chicken lottery band was the best they could do. Not quite the same meaning.
After attending the Gympie Muster and observing the seriousness of the line dancers, one of Grant's group said wouldn't it be funny if the line dancers were all nude. So was born the idea for the song "Nude Boot Scootin". This led Grant, his band and our very own Geoff Breust, who was involved in Tourism Wagga, to the River Island Nature Retreat to attempt a world record for the most number of nude boot scooters doing line dancing. Not a pretty sight they said and hard to keep eye contact!
Grant loves what he does. Being immersed in the country and entertaining for a living, including five ship cruises is part of his dream job. Some of Grant's well known compositions are: "Full moon tonight"; "A Farming Man"; 'Nude Boot Scootin"; "It's Hard to be a Cowboy with a Poodle by your side"; "Two Old Ladies Dancing"; "Let's get a Cow".
After singing two songs which were enthusiastically received, Grant was thanked by President Richard for a very entertaining presentation and gave him a bottle of wine in appreciation. Loud applause from members!
Today was the oddest meeting I have been at with only 20 people allowed. Apparently it will be the same next week.
You will be pleased to know that the change over dinner for 2022 has been booked for Tuesday the 28th of June 2022. I realise this is early but first in best dressed. It is at the same venue at the RSL Club where we had the last one. Provisionally it is booked for 95 people, the same as last year; this of course can vary.
To those on Zoom today I hope it went OK. Like a lot of people I am a bit over Zoom. We entered the pub by the corner door where they checked for double immunisation. I sincerely hope all members are now fully immunised for COVID, both for your protection and admission to meetings. It will be interesting to see if attaching it to the QR we use will obviate 2 steps and make it one. ( apparently Wagga is a trial town for this).
Doug Sutton gave an interesting history of Rotary in Nazi Germany. They had to exclude Jews and be very careful, but still ran foul of the Nazis despite being careful and were banned by 1937. Also it appeared the Catholic Church had its ups and downs with rotary as well, but eventually it was sorted out and supported by the church, even having the Pope address us at one time
.
Guest speaker Grant Luhrs was a delightful guest and regaled us with interesting stories and song. I hope those on ZOOM enjoyed it as well.
There will be a board meeting next Monday night so could all involved please attend with there reports.
President Richard opened our meeting with Rotary Grace and welcomed all to the 14th meeting of the year. There were no visitors and no guest speaker so it was a Hillis day without Mark. A shout out to you Mark from all the club and get well soon.
GEARS AND BEERS
Phil McIntosh addressed the meeting to tell us that Beers and Gears will be almost certainly on in March next year. Very few of the registered riders have asked for a refund and registrations will be rolled over to March. Regular committee meetings will recommence from Wed. 6th.
MEMBER'S CHOICE
David Hodge gave us an update on his business Navigate Accountancy. Last year the business won the naming rights for the Wagga Gold Cup, unfortunately it was held during the Covid lockdown which took the shine off it a little. David's firm are going from strength to strength with four partners and 30 employees. The development of a program called Momentum Doc. by the Navigate team has provided the business with a point of difference. It is a data analytics program for small business and can operate on a computer screen. It is designed to help businesses get to the next level of development.
ROTARY INFORMATION
John Smith gave a detailed presentation on the Rotary Foundation a not for profit organisation started by Rotarian Arch Crump. Its motto is to give for the joy of doing good for others. From humble beginnings the Foundation now has $2 billion dollars in the bank. Since 1985 it has devoted most of its funds to defeating polio through the polio plus program. In recent years it has partnered with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to raise hundreds of millions of dollars toward eradicating polio from the world. It has been hugely successful and only Afghanistan and Pakistan have the polio virus.
The Rotary Foundation also has a humanitarian grants program, providing funds through Global Grants and District Grants. Our Club has had a successful global grant of $US35.000 for pig raising and fish farming in the Democratic Republic of Congo as well as a number of District Grants including for Help Cambodia, Nangus House and others.
The Foundation provides educational programs, sponsors Group Study Exchanges and Rotary Peace Fellowships. Our Club donates $50 per member per year to the foundation via your club fees. Some members donate and extra $50 per year to become Centurions. Donations to The Rotary Foundation are tax deductible. $1000 dollar donations to The Foundation entitle the donor to a Paul Harris Fellowship. It is our tradition that this high honour is earned not bought and so Paul Harris Fellowships are determined by a committee each year. Our Club has given this honour to a number of non-rotarians in recognition of their contributions to our community.
SATURDAY MARKETS
James Hamilton informed members of a change to Rotary's Public liability policy. It is now necessary for Stall Holders at any of our markets to hold Public Liability Insurance and to be able to prove currency of a policy at each market they attend. If they cannot produce a certificate of currency they will not be able to trade.
ROTARY PROPERTY
Stuart Herriot announced that he is tidying up the North Wagga Shed and wants members to know that there is a stock of Wollundry shirts and pullovers. If members require such items please get in touch with Stuart.
APOLOGIES
Frank Fuller, Pat Ingram, John Ireland, John Mason, Robert Pearson, David Post, David Pyke
Thirty even Member attended our meeting and two attended via Zoom
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
Peter Green was this week's winner of the bottle of wine.
Today was a pleasant meeting with good attendance. A fly in the ointment was the new COVID rules that basically only allow 20 people to a meeting as of Mon 11th. We cannot even split to 2 rooms as one booking only can be made for 20. Watch this space as it could change quickly. It is pretty drastic for town with no known infections! It will be a case of first in best dressed. However proof of double immunization will be needed and shown to enter the premises. this can be downloaded from the Medicare site; mine is copied into Wallet as easy to access. This is likely to apply to many other venues.
The meeting will be zoomed however. Also as we get the room free it would be nice for all attendees to order a meal and drinks.
I plan to evolve a flood plan for our storage area in North Wagga. We can store everything there at the men's shed in Ashmont if needed. I will try to do an inventory of all the stuff there in the near future as a start. We are lucky the shed was after the 2012 floods.
David Hodge did Members choice and discussed his career over the last 21 years from humble beginnings till today. John Smith did Rotary Information and discussed Foundation and its workings. Phil Macintosh related that preparations for Gears and Beers was going well, but the date has been deferred until next year due to the current COVID uncertainties at present with large gatherings.
With the Saturday markets, the stallholders will all need to have their own individual public liability insurance. This requirement is being disseminated to them at present. The board has decided that rotary will still take and return the BBQ trailer for the Saturday markets, but the rotaract members will run the BBQ still.
The food and wine festival is tentatively booked for the 19th of February next year. Fingers crossed ! Have a good week, and watch the restrictions of public entry as they may change again and thus allow more of us to attend our meetings.
Dr. Jonathan Medway Head Research Agronomist CSU with President Richard Baguley and Dr. Tim Hutchings, Wollundry Member.
Members were given a glimpse into the mind boggling future of farming by our guest speaker Dr. Jonathan Medway at today's meeting .
In his introduction to our speaker, Dr. David Golland (Wollundry Rotary) revealed a long association with Jonathan who now leads the research at CSU into Developments in the exciting new world of Agriculture Technology. Originally from Quirindi in northern NSW, Jonathan came to his current situation via Farrer Ag College and then to CSU. He set up the school of Agricultural Technology which deals with all aspects of applying digital technology to maximising farm production, including drones, driverless tractors and harvesters, satellite crop monitoring, remote soil carbon testing, animal management systems to mention some.
Dr. Medway, hereon referred to as Jonathan, began by thanking Rotary for the opportunity to speak. Wisely President Richard allowed Jonathan to begin his presentation early in the meeting because his topic was so interesting and so detailed that the usual ten to twenty minutes would not have sufficed.
Taking us through a brief recount of the development of the digital age, Jonathan said that in 1986 when he started his degree in Agriculture, no one owned a computer. Over the past thirty years we have witnessed an exponential growth in digital technology from brick like telephones to the modern smart phone which is really a hand held, multi function computer, to satellites, drones, internet connections that allow real time satellite images, rain forecasts, as well as information sharing across states and countries. Each new technology is billed as the answer to every problem but this is not always the case and we musn't forget many of the useful things from the past.
While robotics, paddock ready systems of agriculture, are estimated to add $20 billion of the $40 billion required to reach the target of $100 billion productivity, there is a major deficit in digital literacy, data analysis and support tools. CSU school of digital farming is designed to address this need.
What began in 1892 as the Wagga Experimental Farm is now CSU's, remarkably diverse, production farm covering 1,900 hectares, where experiments with modern technology can be explored.
The Digital Farm School started this year and is in the process of updating farm machinery to use robotics in every possible application. Sensors in the ground and drones can measure soil carbon. Animals can be monitored for food intake, weight gain, location of animals to provide best food opportunities. Machinery is interlinked by satellite to allow one person to operate up to four tractors. Harvesters are programmed to strip crops and fill wheat bins automatically.
CSU has an archive of data going back to the 1970's. This coupled with new analysis tools provides useful information for soil profiling and and mapping.
Members asked a number of questions regarding the use of virtual reality, manpower to use the technology and where we are placed in the world with the use of digital technology.
Dr. Tim Hutchings gave a vote of thanks for this very interesting talk and referred to his own observed experience of automatic container loading onto boats and a fully automated stud sale that he was attending via zoom in his office.
President Richard opened the meeting with a toast to the Queen and People Of Oz. He then welcomed guests: Dr. Jonathan Medway (guest speaker); Robert and Mary Hawkes; and Viyan Khalaf a year eleven student whom we are sponsoring for the National Youth Science Forum
NEW MEMBER INDUCTION
Robert Hawkes was inducted into our club by President Richard. He was sponsored by David Benn and is pictured above with David, Richard and his wife Mary. David met Robert through Riverina Bluebell. Welcome to our Club Robert and may you and Mary enjoy many years of fellowship with us.
ONE MINUTERS
John Smith was advertising Oysters fresh from the coast at a very good price. He also told us that the Wagga Aero Club is having the monthly barbecue this weekend on Sunday at lunchtime. Michael (Banjo) Young will be providing entertainment, presumably with a Banjo. All are welcome for a small fee.
Projects Chairman Gerry Gerlach announced that the Board had approved a $3,000 grant to Carevan. This will be topped up with a further $2,500 from a District Grant organised by John Egan. Members voted in favour of a donation of $5,250 to Carevan and our Club will be reimursed the $2,500 from district.
Stuart Heriot drew members attention to the items of clothing in our container at North Wagga. Included are yellow pullovers, Polo Shirts and other Club items such as badges. New members may wish to avail themselves of market outfits. See Stuart who is making an inventory of our property.
NATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM
Neil Pinto introduced Viyan Khalaf our sponsored student for the National Youth Science Forum. Viyan thanked Rotary for the opportunity of attending the forum. She told us that she is from Iraq and arrived in Australia with her family in 2019. Viyan lived in a refugee camp for many years and she is grateful for being welcomed to Australia where her brother has had a successful operation to repair a hole in his heart and her father has been treated for cancer. Viyan wants to become a heart surgeon.
President Richard opened the meeting and decided to play a rendition of the National Anthem at the start of the meeting. Sounds like a bad omen to sing before an event as the Wallabies do that before every Bledisloe and it doesn’t seem to help. That was followed by a Rotary grace from a Club in Nigeria. It was equally as bad as our own performance.
Phil Burgess was an apology as he was carted off to Hospital but tells us that he is improving quickly and won’t miss much Rotary.
Geoff Breust let us know that guest speaker from the previous week, Jessica Horner, wanted all the Wollundrians to know that the $1000 she won in the photo competition was sufficient to set up her own business and was very grateful to Wollundry for hosting the event.
The members draw was won by Darren Wallace
Members Choice
Col Duff gave us a review of his Rotary trip to Vanuatu a couple of years previous. The trip was organised by the Rotary Club of Bowral/Mittagong to build a toilet block for the local school. The team of tradies included engineers, electricians, builders, lawyers but, alas, no plumbers which was unfortunate as most of the work was centred on plumbing.
To get the 4000 and 5000 litre tanks to the small island, two boats were tied together, framework assembled and the tanks tied on. The lack of rough seas for the crossing ensured that the tanks arrived in one piece. The 4000 litre septic tank was to be installed underground so they set about digging a huge hole by hand. The whole project was completed in two weeks under the Rotary banner of FAME (don’t know what that is. Ed)
These projects are great for Club fellowship and can easily be grouped with another Club or two. When Covid is off our agenda our Club should look for similar options. The school in Vanuatu is now looking for some funding for furnishing the classrooms. Members can make individual donations as can the Club. Col will speak with the Club project Director.
If you want to make a financial contribution, please see Col Duff
Rotary Information by James Ross
James Ross was a bit short of Rotary information but took the opportunity to share with some of the early days of Pony Club in Holbrook. This was significant as the trainers were none other than Jim Hoy and son Andrew, notably, Andrew being selected for his eighth Olympics representing Australia in Tokyo in Equestrian. Andrew achieved two medals and is the oldest competitor to represent his country. Fantastic achievement. James remembers his Brother having a Shetland pony as his horse but the horse needed for James to be a little bigger (why would that be? ed).
The Ross boys' Dad took his sons to Pony Club each week until he chose the local Footy Club games. The Footy Club also had the advantage of serving beer.
Andrew Hoy resides in the UK most of his time and handled the horses for Princess Anne and Mark Phillips. Andrew made the statement that he will be getting ready for Brisbane 2032.
Guest speaker
Today guest speaker, Luke Grearly, was introduced by John Gray whose wife Norma had worked with Luke Grearly at the Wagga Cty Council many years ago. Luke left the Council entering private enterprise in the Event Hire business but retired from that industry and returned to the Council as Manager of The Museum of the Riverina.
The museum is based at Willans Hill and is the process of redevelopment. Part of the large redevelopment will be housing the winning portraits of the “Bald Archey’s” donated to the museum by the Late Peter Batey OAM. This is a fantastic opportunity for the museum and the Wagga City Council has committed to undertaking the annual awards.
Part of the new premises required the packing up, cataloguing and moving some very sensitive objects to temporary locations, some at the CSU, some at Council depots and some at Riverina Water. The old building was insufficient to house the large number of acquisitions over the years. Some of the new items have been donated to the Museum have come from the Wagga Base Hospital including historical baby scales, a large number of items from Eilish Kendell relating the history of Kendell Airlines and prior to that being Premier Airlines.
The redevelopment is being funded by Government grants totalling $7.4M and the new area will have eight new galleries with the old Museum being storage.
At present there are 25000 visitors to the Botanic Gardens each year but only a small number venture to the museum. Luke wants that to change after the redevelopment as there will be a wonderful display of Wagga and District history. In the receipt of new donations to the new museum, they attempt to build the history of the particular items to ensure that future will have an understanding of the display and the story.
The recent completion of the book Huthwaites, The Friendly Store was very successful and contained a detailed history of retailing in Wagga Wagga.
Luke was thanked by our current Mayor, Greg Conkey, who is retiring from Council at the next Council elections. Greg was very upbeat about the new museum and commented that we lucky to have someone of the quality of Luke in the position of Museum manager
And for those Church going Rotarians....be careful....with an Irish touch
Father O'Malley answers the phone. 'Hello, is this Father O'Malley?' 'It is!' 'This is the Taxation Department. Can you help us?' 'I'll try!' 'Do you know a Ted Houlihan?' 'I do!' 'Is he a member of your congregation?' 'He is!' 'Did he donate $10,000 to the church?' 'He will!'
Presidents report
Another busy meeting today meeting downstairs felt so deja vu as like back in the Riverine Club; very cramped for room.
David Benn stood in for Phil Burgess who had some medical issues today but should be back next week.
Colin Duff did members choice at short notice and talked about his time on a small island of Vanuatu. The island was damaged after a cyclone and the team there helped redo the school and provide desks, and a lot of other good deeds so hats off to him and his crew.
James Ross gave a brief talk on his equestrian days and his involvement with Andrew Hoy many years back. sadly he gave up on horses!
Today's guest speaker, Luke Grearly, gave a very enthusiastic talk about his job with the museum and how the new building is going. He also talked about the Herculean task involved in sorting and packing hundreds of items for storage, with a chance to rationalise many of the objects in the collection. Fortunately the council has had grant monies to help all this happen. He has a lot of local histories about people and places in Wagga and is keen for more.
The members signed a condolence card for Paul Murray on the loss of his daughter in law who passed away in the USA where they lived.
The next meeting in a week I will be there; but after that I am having a knee replacement, so may be a while until I am back on deck. Wish me well!
Our guest speaker on Tuesday was Lisa Simpson, Manager of Ronald McDonald House in Wagga. The main objective for the charity is to provide a home-away-from-home for seriously ill children and their families.
There are 18 houses in Australia. Lisa is one of three paid employees with the rest of the staff volunteers.
There is also a Ronald McDonald Family Room at Wagga Base hospital. Family Rooms provide a warm and safe environment within the hospital where they can spend time away from bedside. There is a kitchenette , washing facilities and a play area for children.
McDonalds funds the house to the tune of 20%. People are often surprised that, assuming McDonalds funds the majority of the costs of running the house. The three following funding sources makeup all of the support for the home.
The relatives and families of high risk pregnancies are also often guests at the house. There are 4 separate sleeping quarters within the house that can each accommodate up to six people. The house is well used, however there are usually availible rooms with the average stay being 4.5 days.
Lisa had quite a few questions which she answered clearly and completely. After her questions she had a short video relaying the experiences at the home of several local families. To view the video click on the photo below: (Note: if you have problems with the video, go to the top of the Bulletin and where it says..."Having trouble viewing this email? Click here to view it online."
Guest speaker David Golland with Neil Pinto and James Ross at the time of his induction into our club in October last year.
The development of a Veterinary course at CSU was the topic of our guest speaker Dr. David Golland.
A driving factor in establishing a course at CSU was the desire to retain graduates in regional areas. This outcome has been achieved with 92% of graduates working in Rural and regional areas.
The project began in 2003 with a detailed report on the development of a Veterinary course. David referenced the influence of Professor Raidal. By the next year an interim curriculum had been devised and the first intake of students, 45 in all, began their studies. 30 of that first group of students went on to graduate in 2010.
The course is of five and a half years duration. Two and a half years is spent on pre-clinical work. The next two years is spent on clinical problem based learning and the final year of external clinical rotations, or placements, in three week lots, in various veterinary clinics.
The bar to enter the course is quite high. An ATAR of 90 is a prerequisite as are other attributes of understanding of animal issues, farming, etc., and good communication skills.
Each year about 400 people apply for the course, of that number the best 160 are interviewed with a final selection of 65. Interviews take place in front of a panel of lecturers who are looking for maturity, commitment and communication skills as well as the academic attributes required for such a testing course. Applicants receive a set of questions and have 30 minutes of reading time prior to the interview. Panel members have a grid for collating points. After all interviews applicants are reranked and the top 65 are offered places.
The aims of the course have been achieved and the course has been a great success in keeping 92% of graduates in Regional areas.
President James thanked David for his informative talk and members showed their appreciation with applause.
President James opened our meeting with a call for Rotary Grace and then reminded us that a parking policeman was seen in the vicinity of Romano's. A warning for all those in a one hour site. He also welcomed our sole visitor Olie Campbell, a Social Security Adviser and former marketeer at our Sunday Market site.
Olie Campbell and David Benn
SATURDAY MARKET
OIC Gerry Gerlach provided the Market Report to Club. There were 27 stalls with a variety of goods.
After deduction of expenses e.g. entertainment $2781.90 was banked.
Team left to right: Wal Paton, Greg Conkey, Bob Willis, Michael Knight, Rick Priest, Rob Nicholson, James Hamilton, Stephen Anderson, John Smith, Pahil Burgess, Peter Crozier, Front facing away: Mark Hillis, Frank Fuller, David Benn
MEMBERS CHOICE
Today's member's choice was presented by Peter Crozier. His choice of subject was the topic: Woke. He assured us it was not political. Here is his article:
WOKENESS
The term woke or wokeness is meant to denote an awareness to important issues especially of social justice.
Many of us don’t understand what woke or wokeness is about so I thought that I might utilise an article from a weekend paper a couple of weeks ago.
The article was written by a creative director in advertising and is written along the lines of branding.
I’ve been building brands for twenty years and I’ve never seen anything like woke. It’s a mistake to think of this ideology as just a bunch of disorganised radical students virtue signalling wherever the woke wind takes them. It’s better to think of it as a highly sophisticated lifestyle brand.
Let’s run through the elements needed to create a brand. First, you need to know your market. A strong, loyal and plentiful customer base is essential. The 2008 financial crisis gave birth to a generation with no faith in capitalist ideals, nor any hope of owning a home. That, along with the death of religion in part, saw swathes of the population simultaneously want to rail against the system and find something to believe in.
Customers of woke are offered a sense of moral superiority, a group identity and are freed from mental responsibility thanks to victim mentality. Sounds good.
You need a brand personality that people can identify with. Woke is ostensibly empathetic and virtuous. Even better.
You need a mission statement that sets out core brand objectives. Precisely what it means to advocate for “social justice” is constantly evolving.
You need a brand book that explains how the brand behaves in all circumstances and how it relates to the world.
You need a brand strategy to dominate the competition. Cancel culture is effective. Constant public beatings, figurative and online, create widespread moral complicity. Woke is already in all media free of charge. The brand has whole media outlets devoted to it. Any brand needs a social media strategy and woke is without peer when it comes to going viral. The promised land for any brand is word of mouth where your customers do the selling for you. woke has countless highly motivated brand ambassadors in the form of influencers willing to spruik the ideology constantly via pre-approved hashtags.
Who owns this brand?
Everyone who wants a piece. It sells a grand narrative of achieving social justice through a collection of half thought out assertions. In reality, woke threatens to undermine the values of Western civilisation. Not bad for a bunch of blue -haired uni students.
(My take on this article is that it is a more sophisticated way of shooting the messenger. In this case using the term "woke" as a derogatory term for those holding a different view on issues, to your own. Much the same way the term "political correctness" is used. Ed. What's your take?)
PERSONAL STORY
Stuart Herriot very bravely addressed us on the subject of death and dying. He said he was inspired to tell his story to inspire us to keep up our health checks. Following a PSA blood test some three years ago, Stuart attended his doctor's surgery for the result. It turned out that his doctor was able to tell from the blood test that he had other more urgent matters wrong and his Prostate was ok. Following more tests he was diagnosed with Multiple Myaloma, a cancer of the blood. His doctor told him his life expectancy was about eighteen months. After nine months of chemo and stem cell intervention he was recovering when he had a brain haemorrhage and required cranial surgery. Following this, Stuart continued further treatment and is feeling well at present. He believes his use of farm chemicals over many years may have contributed to his development of this life threatening disease. His message is to keep up your medical checks and avoid chemicals.
GEARS AND BEERS
Phil McIntosh brought us up to date on registrations and other matters. So far there are 2,700 riders registered for our October festival. 317 for the 100 kilometre ride, 217 for the 10 k ride, 250 for the 30k ride, 488 for the Sat mystery ride and 1,119 for the dirty one thirty. Our bank account is bulging to the tune of $232,000.
Phil is appealing for sponsorships and asks members to put their thinking caps on and give names to Frank Fuller or Peter Crozier. They will follow up your leads.
Other issues to be addressed include use of Morrow St., Council Car Park on corner of Morrow and O'Reilly streets., The traffic management plan., Quotes for equipment hire,. Funding Applications. $20k has been awarded from State Government and hopefully we will get an equal amount from Council.
APOLOGIES
Greg Conkey, Shane Carroll, Ward Gaiter, Jonty Shuter, John Ferguson, David Wishart, Bill Parker, Craig Bromley, Phil Burgess, John Flynn, John Ireland, John Mason, Paul Milde, David Pyke, Neil Schirmer, Ken Taylor.
MAKEUPS
Gerry Gerlach, Richard Baguley, Wal Paton, Peter Crozier, Andrew Crackenthorpe, John Smith, Mark Hilis, Frank Fuller, Bob Willis, Rob Nicholson,
Michael Knight, James Hamilton, Phil Burgess, Greg Conkey, Rick Priest, David Benn, John Gray.
David Benn introduced our Guest Speaker today, and had collected a few anecdotes and personal details to set the scene.
Bronwyn Boyle has a business - Lachlan Boyle Consulting, dealing with communication and conflict resolution, today was her birthday and her Dad had died very recently. Despite these events, Bronwyn had soldiered on and was with us today.
First up, we learned that she had been a Rotary Exchange Student, spending a year at Wanaka, in New Zealand's South Island, and very close to Queenstown in 1988. She thanked Rotary for this opportunity, and it was evident that she would have been a logical selection for the exchange, and gained plenty from exposure to the Kiwis.
The talk started with a story about a woman who was not well dressed, in distress and crying, near the entrance to our Base hospital. Bronwyn consoled her, and arranged for social workers to attend.
The security guards were less sympathetic, they found it funny, but days later, the dishevelled woman credited Bronwyn with saving her life.
More stories followed, and it was clear that she was keen to engage in supporting those in emotional crises. She is the Secretary of Riverina Bluebell.
The talk was intense, but the theme emerged - Open up lines of communication, and keep them open. There were observations about gender differences, and recognition that men have fellowship, and that involves interest and care for each other, and trust for mates that allows difficult issues to be explored.
One interesting difference between Men and Women that Bronwyn has observed is that women share and bond with new friends continuously, in new situations as they go through life. Men, on the other hand, will form lasting friendships as young adults, around 18 to 22 years, and these will be "best mates' all of life. Distance and time gaps will not diminish the bond.
Bronwyn impressed with her knowledge of human traits, gender based variations to behaviour and her empathy with a group of males that had recently had to confront a challenge to their behaviour.
President James opened our meeting with a call to Rotary Grace followed by a welcome to all.
Secretary Phil followed with his report and and said he would put out a roster for Rotary Information.
MEMBER'S CHOICE
David Post conducted the first Member Choice session in lieu of a Sergeants Session. He chose as his topic the current Ship Ever Given that is blocking the Suez Canal. Operated by a company called Evergreen, the ship is 400 metres long (Four Rugby Fields), weighs 224,000 tons and carries 20,000 forty foot containers. Crewed by 25 Indian nationals and owned by Japanese, the ship has blocked ships from passing through the major trade route from Europe to Asia, costing an estimated $400,000,000 per hour.
ROTARY CLUB CENTRAL
This topic was introduced by our IT expert Paul Murray. Essentially Rotary Club Central is a program designed to monitor Club goals. It summaries the work of Rotarians and provides a snapshot of Club activities for Club members, District and R.I.
Some examples of the information that can be monitored include: Membership growth and engagement; Rotary Foundation giving; Service Projects e.g. Food and Wine, Gears and Beers; Man hours worked; income earned; Youth programs; Public Image; Web Page, Face Book, Media.
Paul said that the uploading of data to the program should not be too difficult and suggested this could be a job for the Secretary. He recommended that our Club take up the use of this program which is already used by 50% of clubs.
RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness)
This program is a combined Rotary Clubs program that will run from 10th May to 14th May. It aims to provide Driver information and practical driving demonstrations to year 11 students from all Wagga District High schools who choose to participate. The program has been run successfully each year for a number of years. It is hoped that the information provided to students from, Police, Insurers, Driving Instructors, Road trauma survivors, and other experts will help to prevent teenage road accidents and trauma. Our club will be called on to provide volunteers for one of the days to guide students between classrooms and to cook a barbecue. This year a car is being provided for brakeing demonstration purposes by Scot Oehm Principal of Jason Nissan Wagga. The event will be held at the Wagga Showground.
I will be asking for volunteers closer to the date when I know which day of the week our club will be rostered on.
GOLF
David Hodge reported on a golf challenge between our two rotary teams, Food and Wine and Navigate Wollundry, that took place yesterday at the Wagga Country Club. He proudly told us that his team had won by two points. Not all team members participated but David, Croz, Pykie, D. Benn, D Byfield, D. Sutton, P. Ingram Fozzie, M Hillis had a good time, although for some the golf left a lot to be desired.
GUEST SPEAKER
Today's guest speaker was Mayor Greg Conkey OAM, PP, PHF and current member of our club. In a comprehensive Q and A, Greg informed members of the state of Wagga City's finances and a raft of projects which are underway.
Wagga City Council has:
total revenue of $155 million including $72 million from rates and grants of $44 million
assets of $1.4 billion
$150 million reserves of which $48 million is unrestricted
borrowings of $85 million
operating deficit of $800 thousand
Albury's deficit is $10 million
Projects under way include: A new taxi way at Wagga Airport; Riverside Precinct; Active Travel Plan; Pomingalarna Cycle Complex, Inter Modal Freight Centre, Renovated Museum; Pine Gully Road upgrade as well as upgrades to Lake Albert Rd and Dunns Rd. Storm Water drainage at Gobbagumlin; change rooms Bolton Park; new weigh bridge at Gregadoo waste disposal centre; pipeline for water to Lake Albert.
After delivering what he described as "trivia", Greg then fielded a number of questions and provided honest and open answers to:
Reserves not used to pay down debt; North Wagga Levy Bank; Gregadoo Rd repairs and upgrade; Wagga Airport; Solar Farms; grant funding; Lloyd Rd; City bypass; Inland Rail. Greg told us that City Council employs 700 staff of whom 8 work in Macquarie St Sydney.
Members showed their appreciation of Greg's comprehensive update by warm applause.
MAKEUPS
David Benn, Phil Burgess, David Pyke all at District Confernce
APOLOGIES
Shane Carroll, David Benn, Andrew Crakanthorp, John Ferguson, John Ireland, John Mason, Tim McMullen, Robert Nicholson, Robert Pearson, Andrew Puckeridge, Darren Wallace, David Wishart.
EASTER RAFFLE WINNERS
John Gray, Phil McIntosh, Rick Priest, Phil Burgess, Wal Paton, and Gerry Gerlach
Martin Brown, Assistant Governor and member of the Rotary Club of Tumbarumba visited our club on behalf of DG Michael Moore. His purpose was to assess our Club and write a report for District. Martin updated us on a number of issues in our group of Clubs which is known as Area Three. Martin is halfway through his two year term as AG. Covid prevented visits last year but he is making up for it, visiting each club in area three.
A club development day is being organised for the 15th May, a venue is yet to be determined. Last Sunday was the first gathering of Presidents and President elects. Martin learnt that Wagga club is looking at a Swap Meet. Murrumbidgee and Kooringal are concerned about membership. Junee has provided toiletry bags for remote communities in Central Australia. Junee are considering Corporate memberships which allows employees to represent their employer's business at Rotary. Tumut club is organising the Snowy Valley cycle challenge.
Ron from Ron's removals is paying for storage for a heap of unwanted furniture he collected for bush fire victims. He would like assistance to dispose of furniture. Martin suggested possible auctioning it off with proceeds to go to bush fire victims.
Martin congratulated our club for its vibrancy and answered a few questions. He agreed with Mark Hillis' point that age of members is irrelevant if they are committed and bring skills and energy to the work of Rotary. Hear hear.
An interesting District Conference at Bathurst last weekend. David Benn contributed magnificently to the floor show entertainment on the Saturday night after dinner. Suitably primed with a couple of glasses of red he held forth from the podium with two comical poetic renditions. An audience in excess of 300 acknowledged the presentation with great applause. Well done David.
Well done to Phil McIntosh, he is once again working hard in the background to ensure The Gears and Beers Festival will be a great success for 2021.
Belconnen RC will be celebrating 50 years of service as follows:
17th April 6.30pm - 10.30pm
1 Randwick Rd Lyneham ACT 2602
Cost $55.00 per head.
An email with a registration link and more detail will be circulated today.
Diary Dates:
10th April - The next Sat Market, Roster to the left.
19th April - The next Board Meeting.
30th April - Photography Competition - entries close.
7th May - Photo Display.
15th May - District Assembly - Venue to be notified.
21st June - Wollundry Change over Dinner - RSL Club.
Paul Murray was the sergeant and after fining Col Duff and John Smith for lunching with GM Alan Eldridge on the tax payer, he fined the front left table where Peter Wilesmith was seated. This was Peter's first day back from a serious accident on his bike. He was wearing a full chest and neck brace restricting his head movement. Instead of being at a location where he could see the speakers and screen at the front of the room, his table had him sitting at a seat facing the back. This mandated a fine for the entire table except Peter.
Paul went on to show members how to find their bulletin if it doesn't end up in their Inbox. The frames below will help members with the main points of Pauls talk.
Wollundry Rotary year of 2019-2020, President David Pyke
My year was a little unusual as I spent the first month studying new Rotary Innovations in Ireland. I attended a different pub every night looking for a Rotary Club but was unable to coincide the pub visits with Rotary.
Upon my return, Neil Pinto and I were summoned to a meeting with the District Youth officer to reconsider our decision to have a German Youth exchange lady for the first half of 2020, the latter of half of 2019 being in Orange. At our first meeting we were not aware that the District had already made the decision that the Exchange student would not be coming to Wollundry. Through Neil Pinto’s brilliance, instead we got Sofi Seneme, and how lucky that turned out to be.
With the assistance of Katie O’Neill, John Smith ramped up the Saturday markets to the extent where the monthly profits were healthy, that state of play is continuing. This is a great Club event where we get 12 to 14 of our members working together with a smattering of other members joining those rostered for a coffee on the day. We should not underestimate the importance of the Saturday market for fellowship and, of course, making good money.
We had a visit from Lori Steiner, and husband Steve. Lori had been an exchange student at Wollundry in the 80,s and remembered many of the current members including J Gray, Burmo, Michael Knight etc.
My committee for that year was
IPP James Hamilton
Sec and PE James Ross
Treasurer Adrian Whiting
Committee Peter Crozier, Paul Milde, Colin Duff, Frank Fuller, John Hawkins, John Ferguson and Neil Pinto.
There was so much Rotary experience in that mob , one could not go wrong….however I did seem to get up the nose of the District Governor Elect on matters of District finance. We had a good relationship with our District Governor John McKenzie but the Club stance on reduction of District fees saw our Club being suspended from RI for a few months. It is quite extraordinary that a year or two later this matter has now been taken by other Clubs with some resolution likely in the future.
The gears and beers was a fantastic success in October 2019. Under the guidance of Phil McIntosh and a very capable team, the event made over $150K resulting in a total distribution in that year of $144,536, the largest single distribution to Tumbarumba Rotary of $15000 for the bushfire appeal. The gears and beers also distributed $21000 to other Rotary and Service Clubs for their assistance in the event.
The Christmas party was another great success at the home of Adrian and Rachel Whiting
All was travelling well until March 16, 2020 when the Government shut down most of Australia to deal with Covid 19. That meant cancelling the Food & Wine Festival, only two weeks before the event, and our Tuesday meetings became Zooms. They went well and we managed to have our first face to face meeting as the Changeover in June.
A year full of variables for me as President of this great Club.
Sofi gave an account of her year in Wagga Wagga including a power point presentation . She said that in January 2020 on her arrival she felt embarrassed not speaking very good English however, that has changed dramatically and her command of English is excellent. (It is interesting to note that many Wollundrians are very hard to understand at times, especially in the latter parts of events of a social nature)
Sofi spent her first period of time with Monique and John Shepard, a time when she first enrolled in Wagga High School. After the Shephard family, she spent an extended period with Monica and Peter Jessop, followed by her final Host family David and Helen Mundy. Sofi experienced a different style of schooling including the essential uniform policy not experienced in Sao Paulo.
Although the Covid 19 struck the world scene not long after Sofi arrived and the interstate Safari and District conferences were cancelled, there were plenty of trips around the country she enjoyed. When we were forced into lockdown in March Wollundry Rotary registered with Zoom and had all our meetings through to the end of June as virtual meetings on Zoom. Sofi joined us from the Wagga High School library on each meeting day and gave us an update on what was happening in her routine. Unfortunately, as was with most of us, there was not much happening outside the school environment.
Sofi did manage to travel to the South Coast and try her hand a surf board riding and achieved that with ease.
Sofi did find the experience of heading off to school on a frosty morning and huge shock. A minus one in Wagga was a far cry from the temperate climate of Sao Paulo. During the Pandemic ABC National news interviewed Sofi about her Rotary Exchange experience and how she was coping with the drama's surrounding that time. As is her confident self, it came over so well.
In the latter part of her stay the lockdown eased and Sofi was able to experience more travel and went to Thredbo and walked to the Kosciusko summit, she climbed The Rock which described as being "pretty easy". She walked across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, strolled around the Opera House and thoroughly enjoyed the Sydney venture. Sofi travelled to Melbourne and met fellow Brazilian Exchange Student Marcella, bringing Marcella back to Wagga via a short camping trip where she described the camping as having "no dunnies", a good Aussie experience.
One of the highlights of her schooling at wagga High was attending the year 10 formal.
Sofi thanked all her Host families and the Wollundry Rotarians who made her trip so enjoyable.
George Weston, representing the District Governor, presented Sofi a certificate recognising her time on Rotary Exchange in Australia. James Ross followed thanking Sofi for sharing her time with us and gave Sofi a gift as a token of the love and affection we have for Sofi from Wollundry Rotary to remember the Club. James also said we would love to see again in Australia in the future.
The final meeting for December was another Ladies day and a send off for Sofi Seneme. We were fortunate that Sofi's Mum and Sister joined us on Zoom as did her Uncle, a cousin and a few Rotarians in Sao Paulo who sponsored Sofi on her Aussie exchange trip. All of her host parents were either at the meeting or on Zoom.
President James opened the meeting and requested that we sing the Rotary grace which was done with the same gusto of the previous week, in tune. This was a day for Sofi as she was our guest speaker in her send off speech to our Club.We were so lucky to have this delightful young Brazilian lady with us for 2020. More of Sofi's speech follows.
In our Covid year of lockdown, drinking at home took a huge leap forward but caution needed to be observed
An important function was performed by President James. John Smith was called to the floor and was presented with Sapphire pin in recognition of continuing service to Rotary. Well done Smithy. He responded with a salute and promptly returned to his seat. There was no sergeant session as we were all more interested in the presentation from Sofi
And now for a couple of one liners
When I married Miss Right, I had no idea her first name was Always.
Women spend more time wondering what men are thinking than men spend thinking.
Women sometimes make fools of men, but most guys are the do-it-yourself type
We were fortunate to once again have Dr Grant Bell, the Anglican minister from St John's in Wagga, address our meeting with a Christmas message. Grant was advised by James Hamilton that it should be short and "not too religious" . Grant acceded to that request and delivered an outstanding speech about the similarities between the work of the Church and that of Rotary.
Having been a Rotarian at Glen Innes in an early posting, Grant said that he researched the history of Rotary and had a substantial knowledge of Paul Harris.
The message was for each of us to work out what the spirit of Christmas meant. It meant different things to different people but, as Jesus said " it is more blessed to give than receive" The great difficulty for Grant was to work out what we give to friends and family who seem to have everything. If this is confusing then you can buy Dad another shirt as you did last year or Mum similar perfume or maybe adopt pragmatic approach buying something for your self, like a lawn mower for your wife, however, Grant's wife did tell him last week that she wanted a Ryobi leaf blower. That sat pretty well with Grant.
Grant enjoyed the fellowship of Rotary but was determined to adopt the philosophy of Rotary as it married in with his Christian belief. He was impressed with the history of Paul Harris who was man of substantial faith. He delivered the very important message from Paul Harris who said " we know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that, though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that, through his poverty, you might become rich.
We need to provide for others and many other core values of giving.
Mark Hillis was our speaker on Tuesday Dec 1st, and he took us back on a history trip reviewing 50 years of the Australian auto industry.
In the 1970’s an average car was about $2200. Servicing was every 5,000 miles, plugs points, air filter, oil filter and oil. Australian manufacturing was highest in the 1970 with nearly 500,000 (10th in the world.)
In 1975, the average car cost $4,300 and it took 49 weeks salary to buy that car. The average annual income in 1975 was $7600, in 1998 $48,412 and 2020 $89,000.
50 years selling cars was easy. Cars were status symbols. The top 2 were Ford and Holden. Men did the buying. Marketing was a simple theme. All male dominated. The key selling tools were horsepower and style.
Hatch backs in the 80’s were all the rage. Women became the frontline shoppers. Many borrowed on their home loans to pay cash at the car dealerships. The idea was to own your car, and you’ve got it made…cash only. The banks loved it. People would sell the car in 2 years but continue to pay that car off over 25 years.
At this stage the Button plan was introduced with the focus on reducing numbers built in Australia from 13 to 6 and providing Japanese and American companies with the ability to re Badge their products.
European models were making their mark in Australia. Over the next decade we stopped buying large sedans and stopped building the models that sell. 4WD’s became all the go with dual cab utes replacing the family car and were all made in Thailand.
Then women discovered they loved the 4WD’s and we took the male curse off and began to call them SUV’s.
The last Falcon sedans were selling 2 a month at Hillis Ford. Parts and Service departments changed. Australian manufacturing could not survive.
The future for Car Dealerships is less dealers, less brands, less parts and service, less finance. Today 50 brands, 1 major brand Toyota. Everyone else under 10%. The good news is that Chinese have not dominated.
Challenges are: with electrical autos, fuel taxes contribute $10 billion in revenue. Its falling from 44% of motoring revenue to 39% 5 years ago due to efficiencies. Long distances in Australia make it difficult for electric cars. We all have tow bars and haul caravans. Food is moved by road not rail. Where is the power source for electric cars coming from?
Mark Twain Quote: “The only constant in life …. Is change itself.”
Mark was given a vote of thanks by President James.
Mark Hillis Provides a History of the Motor Industry in Australia
Tim Hutchings introduced today's guest speaker, noting that Tom had supervised his PHD work at the university.
Tom spoke on the Causes of Ice Ages on Earth, and our scope for effectively adapting to these changes. He identified three factors that influenced changes to climate and temperature on the planet:
* Precession - Earth wobbling on its axis.
* Obliquity - Variation in tilt of Earth's axis.
* Orbital eccentricity - The orbit is not a circle.
These factors are not short term - the cycles of change cover tens to hundreds of thousands of years.
We saw many graphs showing variations to physical parameters on earth - including.
* The LR04 Benthic Stack of deep-seabed sediment cores for 5.3 million year record of sea levels.
* Inter-hemispheric isolation phase systems at Orbital Scale.
* 65 deg N caloric summer half-year insolation (Gj m-2)
Tom made the point that Carbon Dioxide was "just plant food", and implied that it was harmless in the atmosphere. He believes that cycles of ice ages and warmer periods were generated by the factors relating to the Earths position and the Sun.
This brought the presentation back to Tom's area of employment as an agricultural economist, and his belief that our focus should be on adapting to the changes that are occurring,
Daniel Donebus, today's guest speaker was introduced by Burmo.
A graduate of A.N.U. in Commerce and Law, Daniel joined Burmo's law practice becoming a partner and stayed until they both retired a few years ago. Burmo told us that Daniel is the son of Carlo Donebus an Italian refugee from war torn Europe, who arrived penniless in Australia and built up a business as a painter and later property developer. Carlo established a company Damasa, so named after the first letters of the children's names. Carlo died a few years ago and the siblings nor run the company.
Damasa has proposed the largest private development in the history of Wagga and it is this development that Daniel has come to speak about at our Club.
Much work and money has gone into developing this project, which is unique for Wagga. It proposes a multi story office, car parking, apartment and unit living with recreation area, light retail, medical and postal facilities.
The site is bounded by Morgan, Docker, Forsyth and Murray Sts and includes the old car club site. It is 800 metres or a ten minute stroll to the Baylis St, 8 minutes walk to the Hospital and 5 minutes to Collins Park
The concept has been named Civitas, a latin name meaning the body of citizens bound by law, but loosely translated means a community. The old veteran car club site will be replaced by a 6 story building, Piercy Place will become a six story office facility, while the community college site will be converted to 13 townhouses and 188 apartments.
The development will potentially:
provide for 1,000 + white collar jobs.
Reinvigorate the main st.
Attract interest from our older population due to the proximity of services, medical shopping etc.
provide 750 additional car spaces.
Allowing time for questions, Daniel provided a number of answers. Responding to a question about leasing or ownership, he said he wasn't sure about a final decision. Essentially Damasa likes to control their portfolio through ownership as they can maintain a high standard which sometimes slips when others don't have same philosophy. About objections to the development he said that it was disappointing that a small group had raised strong opposition fearing that it would become an urban ghetto. Daniel said this was almost certainly not going to happen as the tenants would be doctors, dentists a butchery and a post office as well as seniors.
Members appreciated the talk and showed this by warm applause following President Jame's vote of thanks.
Our Guest speaker today was former Wollundry Rotarian James McTavish, currently NSW Cross Border Commissioner. James was one of the Armies youngest Lieutenant Colonel’s stationed at Kapooka.
James McTavish was appointed NSW Cross Border Commissioner in July 2014 and as the NSW Regional Town Water Supply Coordinator in January 2019. He has been working in this dual role to advocate for border communities and address cross-border anomalies as well as to ensure every regional town in NSW has safe, clean drinking water.
James informed members that $250 million worth of infrastructure water projects were in process in various types of work such as bores, dam refurbishment and the like. In addition, regional water facilities were being supported with additional funding in the firm knowledge that the drought will be back and the long range impact of climate change will require new and innovative approaches to deal with the problem.
James noted that the border closures had the single most dramatic impact on border communities in the areas of employment, shopping, culture, health and many other areas. At the peak of the problem, his office was receiving 500 communications a day on the subject. He suggested that we needed to see ourselves as Australians and not Victorians or New South Welchmen. We only have Australian passports.
President James gave James a vote of thanks.
Former Wollundry Rotarian James McTavish Speaks about Borders and Water
Alan Johnston is the Chairman of The Committee for Wagga Wagga and was born in Scotland, on the border, in a town that actually had a beach, He grew up in Albury before undertaking an Accountancy Degree at the then Riverina College of Advanced Education ( a wonderful Alma Mater that now is Charles Sturt University.) Following that he took up a position with Coopers and Lybrand here in Wagga, along with our former club member, John Ashton.
Subsequently he managed Buchmann labourites, an international company based in the US, but decentralised to Wagga Wagga. As he said, his whole life has been centred around managing change.
He joined the board of Committee for Wagga Wagga after an unsuccessful attempt to retire.
The City Council and the Committee are often at cross purposes he thinks, but feels sure that the healthy disagreements are leading us all in the right direction.
Some of the highlights he mentioned include bicycle track provisions, the lights around the Lake, The New Years Eve functions, and the successful completion of the major works on the Levee banks. Naturally there are still things to come, but time and tide will bring these to fruition.
He mentioned specifically the Bomen Special Activation Precinct which both he and Mayor Greg agree has high importance to the city. Again he stressed the value and necessity of keeping Wagga Wagga and its development at the forefront of people's mind. We will grow to 100.000 by 2040. But how we do it is up to us to decide. Digital connectivity is at the cutting edge right now. It will be even more vital in convincing corporations to move our way.
Keep telling good stories!
After fielding questions on high rise development, and location of the spur line at Bomen, Alan was thanked by President James with the traditional bottle of wine. He then drew his own number from the pan, but graciously dipped again to reward John Ferguson!
Today was a very interesting meeting. We began firstly with Past President Pykie trying to bring the meeting to order with a "rendition" of Rotary Grace.That worked a little, supported by the Loyal Toast. He eventually muted everyone and set about checking on travellers. Gerry Gerlach had been to Noosa and spoke happily of playing golf, lazing around the pool and generally enjoying Angie's company. No one immediately tried to top that , until later when Doug Conkey waxed lyrical about the Sunshine Coast and wearing shorts and singlets!!
Then President James burst through the door and took over the meeting. He hurriedly checked on the status, and with a first for Wollundry we had a direct link with PP John Smith who was flying towards Goondawindee at 300km/hr. Col Duff and Mal Roberson were with him enjoying the view from beyond 4000 ft. The reception was as clear as a bell. Less noise came from the aircraft than did from Ward Gater's bar where several members congregated for a meal.
PPJohn Gray as OIC of the last Saturday Market was asked if there was any suggestion of running our market more frequently. He said no there wasn't!
A quick reminder that the Club would meet at the Riverine Club next week, and that it iss necessary to reply to John Mason that you are or are not attending, and eating or not eating. This is important as the venue supplies meals (sandwiches) and there will only be enough to match the reply.
In a brief report from the first Board meeting he also announced the the Christmas Party wouldd be held on December13th, at Mark and Chrissy Hillis' new home at Riverview. (It is behind the City Club golf course, but directions will come out soon enough )
We are reviewing our Community Budget with the situation we find ourselves in and committee lists will be published shortly.
Sophie reported that she was back at school again. Her family watched "Hamilton" which she said was fantastic.
Hopefully Sophie can give us her presentation next week.
A quick market sign roster change was facilitated with John Flynn staring at the beach, while Pat Ingram shivered and agreed to cover his role.
PP Doug Sutton is reported to have achieved 26 points in 9 holes!
With an Irish joke, President James closed the meeting at an early 1.00pm.
Our guest at Tuesday's meeting was District Governor Michael Moore. Michael visited our club using Zoom video conferencing and gave a 20 minute presentation on the coming together of District 9700 and District 9710 . Both districts have a long history and at one time were one district.
Michael displayed the regalia that both districts have used for years and the new colour that will be used for District 9705 governors.
He was well prepared with slides about Wollundry and a thank you to those members in Wollundry who work at district positions. A video copy of Michael's presentation is available by clicking here or on Michaels photograph.
Our new President James Ross opened our combined physical and zoom meeting at 12.30 p.m. with Rotary Grace. He then welcomed our guest speaker and Wollundry Charter President Graeme Hornibook. An apology was received from our exchange student Sofi.
James read aloud a letter of resignation from Nick Leywood who had to leave our club due to work committments and a transfer interstate. He expressed his regrets and said how much he would miss the fellowship and thanked members for the support they had given him in difficult times.
On a more positive not James told us that our Club had been presented with the Rotary Youth Service Award by District Youth Director Alan Josey. This is a prestigious Rotary International Award and our club is very proud to have received this award for our RYLA, RYPEN and Youth Exchange Program.
SERGEANT
Today John Gray filled this role to extract money from those in attendance. Peter Crozier assisted with the fine box. PP Pykie was fined for continuing to take responsibility for a job that pertained to the President and John Smith for receiving the Rotarian of the Year award. John told us an Irish joke which was sufficiently funny to warrant the rest putting into the fine box. A cross fine by Doug Sutton on all members for failing to keep social distance was received with little enthusiasm.
ROTARY INFORMATION
David Benn introduced a great idea for Rotary Information this year: Each of the Past Presidents of the club would give a summary of the highlights of the year they were President. The purpose being to remind members of the clubs achievements and characters over the years and to inform new members of the history and traditions of our club. Our first Past President to speak is Graeme Hornibrook our Charter President and today's guest speaker.
GEARS AND BEERS
Phil McIntosh addressed the club with his concerns about the latest outbreak of Covid 19 in Victoria and the implications this might have for our festival. Phil felt that it would be risky to proceed with the festival given the length of the lockdown. It was decided to measure the feeling of members and a vote to cancel the event was unanimously passed. All regret the abandonment of the festival for this year but there was full support for Phil's efforts and an optimism that next years event would proceed.
Team (7.30am) - David Benn, Craig Bromley, Phil Burgess, D Conkey, Ken Taylor, John Egan, Steve Anderson (for David Foster), (originally M Hillis James Hamilton, Pat Ingram, Phil McIntosh, John Flynn (for Wal Paton)
Trailers David Benn, Craig Bromley, John Flynn, David Pyke Swap needed
Responsibilities: Please,
Find a Replacement if any of your rostered duties cannot be fulfilled.
Register an Apology by Monday 4pm if you are going to be absent from the next meeting.
Register your meal preference by Monday 4.00pm if you will be eating. ( From the Menu )
Register a Makeup for a meeting absence whenever you can.
Our guest speaker today was Graham Hornbook our Club's Charter President. Graham was the first speaker of our Past Presidents who will give talks throughout the year to remind us, and enlighten our newer members, of our interesting history.
The idea for these talks was put forward by PP David Benn and was enthusiastically received by our new President.
We are in about week 5 or 6 of our isolation and for many of us, not a lot has changed. That cannot be said for those in business or some in employment where the changes are substantial and in many cases devastating. We can only hope that those most badly affected will have a recovery at the end of this period of distress.
Not much is happening on the Rotary scene, however, there is a short Rotary information section in today’s meeting
The ongoing issue with the Black Sorrows continues and it is apparent that they no longer dispute their obligations to us, however, we have not seen a refund of any monies at this stage.
The District matters we have been engaged in look like we will face suspension until our District fees are paid. I have been communicating with RI in the Sydney office. As you probably know, we requested the District Board either refund 2019-2020 fees to all Clubs or have the large estimated surplus in the District bank account deducted from District fees for 2020-2021. All our requests have been rejected. The suspension has not yet been issued and means that we would be unable to vote at District events.
The District DG, John McKenzie has sent out a Presidents letter where an interesting matter has arisen. The Rotary Club of Orange Daybreak, the second largest Club in the District after Wollundry, has also asked the District to have the large surplus deducted from 2020-2021 fees. This has also been rejected by the District Board. There has been no communication between Orange Daybreak and our Club but that is likely to change
We had 36 members at our meeting last week so hopefully we can better that this week and keep in touch with each other Zoom or other techo forms.
Don’t forget to ring other members simply to say hello, a simple communication can mean so much
The instructions below are for Dist 9700 meeting and this may be confusing to you but the same instructions will be valid for our Club meeting. So:
If you are unfamiliar with Zoom, I suggest you spend a few minutes reviewing this document and clicking on the actual link below.
By clicking on the actual link, It will prepare your computer for the meeting by checking your software for an existing version of Zoom. If it finds one, it opens it and tries to join the linked meeting. If it doesn't find a copy of Zoom, it (1) downloads the software, (2) asks your name, and (3) tries to join the meeting. Since there is no current meeting, you will not be able to join the meeting, however you will be prepared.
The email link is simply an internet site and a meeting ID. The District meeting ID number is 386 861 1170.
So if you have never used Zoom before, click on the above link to load the software. If you have used Zoom before, all you need to do, is click the link at the appointed time for the meeting.
Another option you have… if Zoom is already loaded on your computer, is to open Zoom, and click on Join a Meeting, and then enter the meeting ID 386 861 1170.
Regarding hardware requirements, the best option is to use a computer headset and have a video camera, however you can attend the session without a camera or a headset.
While attending an online meeting it is advisable for everyone, except the host to Mute their microphones. Any sound (Phone call, dog barking etc) gets transmitted to all attendees and disturbs the meeting.
We are all experiencing changes to our lifestyle that could never have been imagined. Most of us are able to cope with and adhere to the Government guidelines. The social distancing rules have been made very clear to us and we all have the responsibility to maintain our distance and be vigilant is all the sanitising guidelines.
Some of our members have and will experience further financial difficulties. The Government funding made available might ease some of that pressure. The various options available for individuals and business are substantial and can be found on various websites. The Federal Government Treasury website has a good summary. It can be accessed on
My Mother remembered the 2nd world War and the dramas surrounding that time. She was a nurse when so many injured soldiers returned with terrible injuries. That, of course, went on for a very long time for physical injuries and decades for other injuries. A period of time wished never to be repeated. Our current situation has no similarity other than this is a “health” war and the Government is financially propping up the country. We can thank our children and grandchildren in advance for shouldering the burden of long term debt which is emerging.
At our Board meeting in early March we decided that we would not have meetings until after Easter but that will not happen, however, we had a special Board meeting this week on Zoom, courtesy of Paul Murray, and decided the following.
The Club will acquire a “zoom” package and we will schedule a weekly E meeting. For access to this option all members will need to install the Zoom software to the computer. The instructions are attached
The previously approved payment of $7200 to Pygmy Child Care in The Congo will need Club approval
We are negotiating with the agent for The Black Sorrows to refund the 50% deposit we paid.
Our Saturday markets are cancelled for April and May and will be reviewed later. The Thursday Producers market at the Showground remains in operation and some producers will operate on Saturday April 11, our nominated market day, also at the Showground.
Our application to District for reduction of District fees was previously refused and DG John McKenzie send us notice that if our District dues were not paid by 31 March a request to RI would be made to suspend our Club. I have been in touch with RI and the matter is being reviewed.
There has been overall support for the bulletin to continue and a number of members have contributed jokes or ditties. Some of those will be included. A couple of members have accessed Club Runner and sent those to members.Kppe it going Members. There have been some classics
Pykie
31 March 2020
PS
All the below have been contributed by other members. None from me this week
From David Wishart
This young woman is about re marry for the third time and is still a virgin so how come. Well the first time she married a psychiatrist and all he did was talk about it. The second time he was a optometrist and all he did was look at it. So this time I am marrying a solicitor so I will get screwed for sure. Regards David Wishart
And from Richard Baguley
MURDER AT WOOLWORTHS
Tired of constantly Being broke & stuck in an unhappy marriage, a young husband decided to solve both problems by taking out a large insurance policy on his wife with himself as the beneficiary, and then arranging to have her killed.
A 'friend of a friend' Put him in touch with a nefarious dark-side underworld figure who went by the name of 'Artie.' Artie explained to the husband that his going price for snuffing out a spouse was $5,000. The Husband said he was willing to pay that amount, but that he wouldn't have any cash on hand until he could collect his wife's insurance money. Artie insisted on being paid at least something up front, so the man opened his wallet, displaying the single dollar bill that rested inside. Artie sighed, rolled his eyes, & reluctantly agreed to accept the dollar as down payment for the dirty deed.
A few days later, Artie followed the man's wife to the local Woolworths Supermarket store. There, he surprised her in the produce department & proceeded to strangle her with his gloved hands. As the poor unsuspecting woman drew her last breath & slumped to the floor, the manager of the produce department stumbled unexpectedly onto the murder scene. Unwilling to leave any living witnesses behind, ol' Artie had no choice but to strangle the produce manager as well.
However, unknown to Artie, the entire proceedings were captured by the hidden security cameras & observed by the store's security guard, who immediately called the police. Artie was caught and arrested before he could even leave the store.
Under intense questioning at the police station, Artie revealed the whole sordid plan, including his unusual financial arrangements with the hapless husband who was also quickly arrested. The next day in the newspaper, the headline declared...
(You're going to hate me for this...)
'ARTIE CHOKES 2 for $1.00 @ WOOLWORTHS
From Geoff Breust
IMPONDERABLES
If you take an Oriental man and spin him around a few times, does he become disoriented?
If people from Poland are called Poles, why aren’t people from Holland called Holes?
Do infants enjoy infantry as much as adults enjoy adultery?
If a pig loses its voice, does it become disgruntled?
If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?
Why is the man who invests all your money called a broker?
What does cheese say when it gets its picture taken?
Why is a person who plays the piano called a pianist but a person who drives a racing car not called a racist?
Why are a wise man and a wise guy opposites?
Why do overlook and oversee mean opposite things?
Why isn’t the number 11 pronounced onety one?
“I am” is reportedly the shortest sentence in the English language. Could it be that “I do” is the longest sentence?
If lawyers are disbarred and clergy defrocked, does it not follow that electricians are delighted, musicians denoted, cowboys deranged, models deposed, tree surgeons debarked and dry cleaners depressed?
Why is it you learn to swear when you learn to drive?
Why is it no one ever says “it’s only a game” when their side is winning?
Isn’t making a smoking section in a restaurant the same as making a peeing section in a swimming pool?
Why is it that when you send something by road it’s called a shipment but when you send it by sea it’s called cargo?
Why is it that convenience stores which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, have locks on the door?
If four out of five people suffer from diarrhoea, does that mean one enjoys it?
ZOOM
The instructions below are for Dist 9700 meeting and this may be confusing to you but the same instructions will be valid for our Club meeting. So:
If you are unfamiliar with Zoom, I suggest you spend a few minutes reviewing this document and clicking on the actual link below.
By clicking on the actual link, It will prepare your computer for the meeting by checking your software for an existing version of Zoom. If it finds one, it opens it and tries to join the linked meeting. If it doesn't find a copy of Zoom, it (1) downloads the software, (2) asks your name, and (3) tries to join the meeting. Since there is no current meeting, you will not be able to join the meeting, however you will be prepared.
The email link is simply an internet site and a meeting ID. The District meeting ID number is 386 861 1177.
So if you have never used Zoom before, click on the above link to load the software. If you have used Zoom before, all you need to do, is click the link at the appointed time for the meeting.
Another option you have… if Zoom is already loaded on your computer, is to open Zoom, and click on Join a Meeting, and then enter the meeting ID 386 861 1177.
Regarding hardware requirements, the best option is to use a computer headset and have a video camera, however you can attend the session without a camera or a headset.
While attending an online meeting it is advisable for everyone, except the host to Mute their microphones. Any sound (Phone call, dog barking etc) gets transmitted to all attendees and disturbs the meeting.
Secretary’s Report for Meeting No. 36 - 17th March 2020
Reminders:The calendar of forthcoming activities has suddenly opened up. The following may yet be cancelled (tbc) :
Dinner with RC Murrumbidgee : Friday 20th March
Riverine Club Autumn Ball in aid of Riverina Bluebell : Saturday 21st March (see David Benn)
Responsibilities: Please, × Find a Replacement if any of your rostered duties cannot be fulfilled. × Register an Apology by Monday 4pm if you are going to be absent from the next meeting. × Register a Makeup for a meeting absence whenever you can.
Fellow Rotarians, it is the duty of our Rotary club to add
new members from time to time, so that we may not only increase our usefulness and influence as a club, but also to extend the spirit of Rotary throughout the community. Today, I welcome to our ranks and admit to membership .
Rotarian …………, you have been elected to membership in this club because your fellow members believe you to be a worthy representative of your calling and also to possess qualities that will permit you to exemplify the true spirit of Rotary in your public, business, social and private life.
I wish to impress upon you that you have been admitted not only to the Rotary Club of ………….., but to a worldwide association; and by virtue of your membership in this club, you will be welcomed into the fellowship of any Rotary club in the world.
The honour and privilege of Rotary membership carries with it duties and obligations. You will be expected to attend the club’s meetings regularly, to perform your share of club service, and to place your knowledge and talents at the disposal of the club in its task of carrying the principles of Rotary into the daily life of the community.
I ask all members to rise.
Rotarian…………., in the name of the Rotary Club of……… I now formally admit you to membership in this club and affix to your lapel our emblem.
Fellow Rotarians, I commend to you our newest member, Rotarian…………… who has been allocated the classification of …………., and charge all of you to welcome him/her.
Up to the present day, the planned approach for the new 9705 website has been to create a totally new site, build it up with the new organizational structure, replicate the committee webpages and transfer all archived committee data from the 9700 website database to the 9705 website. This approach had an appeal in that it was new and did not favor either of the two districts. Howe was and is considerably more work in the rebuild and replication activities.
Leo suggested that it would be easier to use the existing populated 9700 database and import the 9710 members data into it. That would bring along all the archives and supporting downloadable documents stored over the seven years of use. It was agreed that rebadging 9700 to 9710 was the most practical and time savings approach. Paul suggested we discuss this with ClubRunner to confirm that we can duplicate 9700 for non RI Synchronized training and then at the changeover do a name change from 9700 to 9705.
Action item : Paul to talk with CR on 9700 becoming 9705
Our Guest Speaker on Tuesday was Paul Murray. Paul briefed the members on recent upgrades in job emails, the Members Only menu and the latest version of the ClubRunner App. He noted that technology is harder to sell than most other subjects so he started his presention with sound and graphics and fireworks promoting the points he was going to talk about.
Job or Position emails are public email addresses that are redirected to a private email address. Below is a list of the recently established job emails:
He also discussed the new Members Only menu option on our Wollundry website. He reported to members the creation of a new template titled "I need a Markets swap". This template is a quick way of sending out a email to all members requesting a swap for the Markets.
He proceeded to play a short video outlining the features of the latest ClubRunner App. To view the video click on the box below: (Note: Your email program may not be able to show the embedded code for the video. You can click on the View bulletin Online at the top of this page to resolve the issue.
He touched on the plan to implement ClubRunner over the district and encouraged members to involve themselves in district activities.. He said he had felt that it was very rewarding in meeting the good people from Rotary all over the district.
Brett Somerville from PCYC was today's guest speaker and he was introduced by Past President, Retired Police Superintendent, Frank Fuller.
Frank gave Brett an enthusiastic welcome to our club. Brett has had a strong career in the area of sports management. A Collingullie boy, Brett was Master in Charge of the Greater Western Sydney Sports Academy. He coached the First Eighteen at Riverview College and after returning to Wagga in 2015 he coaches the Collingullie Demons. Brett has managed the PCYC for 5 years. Frank was himself President of the PCYC in the 1980's.
The Police Citizens Youth Club organisation began in 1937 in partnership with Rotary. Brett said its purpose is to empower young people with the assistance of police and other community organisations. It is a Charity and not a Government Run organisation although it receives Government assistance.
It promotes Respect, Commitment and Resilience for young people.
It is an exciting time for PCYC Wagga as a $23 million dollar facility will commence construction in 2020 on the old South Wagga Bowling Club site. It will be designed to complement the Wagga City Council Sports Precinct at Bolton Park.
The PCYC movement has 65 Clubs with 110,000 members, 900 staff, 220 police, 1,500 active volunteers and provides 1,000 different activities for young people.
Programs provided in Wagga include: Police Programs, Indigenous Programs, Driver Education, Leadership, Vacation and After School Care, Youth Committee, Savannah Pride ( A basketball program aimed specifically for Sudanese), and Emergency Service Cadets.
Brett is particularly proud of the Emergency Services Cadets program which he initiated in Wagga as a Pilot Program. It allows suitable young people to participate with emergency services personnel. The young people involved in this program helped to set up and run "Nations of Origin" event and it is hoped their participation will give them skills to assist in finding career paths.
PCYC can use community help with bus driving, selling raffle tickets, running barbecues, Co-ordinating programs and doing administrative work.
Brett showed us a video of PCYC work and then fielded a number of questions.
Brett said that NSW PCYC is its own entity. After care costs $29 a day which is means tested. Kids join through the Rise Up Strategy sometimes with referrals from police, youth workers, homeworkers or anyone linked into community organisations who see young people at risk and who might benefit from the programs offered.
"Fit for Change" is a 10 week program designed to change anti-social behaviour. The bike track located at the current PCYC facility will not be replicated at the new facility, but the bike track objective will be met by the new bike track at Pomingalarna reserve.
Richard Rossiter gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the Club. He said we are all looking forward to the new facility which will be of great benefit to the Wagga Community. He said how he enjoyed the bike track as a kid and commended the work that PCYC does. Richard presented Brett with a Bottle of Wine in appreciation. Members endorsed his thanks with applause.
President David opened the meeting and asked for Rotary Grace to be sung. He then welcomed guests Judy Sterling and Barb Oakman from the Kooringal Tennis Club and our Guest Speaker Brett Sommerville from PCYC.
Presentation of AED (Defibrillator) to Kooringal Tennis Club. Chair Geoff Breust with Barb Oakman and Judy Sterling.
In making the presentation Geoff said that the total spent on providing defibrillators is just over $90,000 with $60,000 of that sum coming from our Club. This is an outstanding effort. In accepting the defib. Barb thanked Rotary and said all members would be comforted knowing that the defib would be available in the event of a cardiac event. The oldest playing member of the Kooringal tennis club is over 90.
PROJECTS COMMITTEE REPORT
Chair Peter Crozier reported that the Board had approved two projects over $1000 which required club approval:
Rural Outreach Counselling $10,000. This project had been submitted by David Post and the money will be used for the mate keeper program to train volunteers and follow up support services.
A computer vor Vanuatu $1400. This project was submitted by Col Duff.
Projects not requiring club approval but passed by the Board were:
Indian Palliative Care $500.
Summer School for Strings $1000.
CHRISTMAS CAKES
Paul Milde is taking orders for Christmas cakes once again. Paul also thanked James Hamilton and Malcolm Robertson for repairing a number of our tents. He also thanked those who helped set up tents for Fusion 2019. Volunteers are have been called to set up tents for children function at the MTC.
SERGEANT
Dave Foster was today"s sergeant. President Pyke copped three fines for only serving an 11 month stint as Rotary President, for sharing holiday photos and for dispensing on some occasions with Rotary Grace. James Ross and Burmo were fined for forgetting daylight saving and turning up late for duties. James Hamilton wasn't happy with the way council arranged sand bags to hold down tents at Fusion so he went around and rearranged them all. Collingwood supporters were fined once again as were supporters of Richmond, Julian Assange and shareholders of CSL shares. John Ireland and David Benn were fined for their part in achieving awards for V02 Olive Oil.
SAILING
Mark Hillis advised that there are only two spots left on the second boat for the sailing weekend. He would also like the email addresses of partners to ensure they are informed of details of the event.
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
Nick Leywood won the bottle of wine.
FOOT NOTE (LITERAL) provided by a deservedly proud David Benn.
President David opened the meeting and asked for Rotary Grace to be sung. He then welcomed guests Judy Sterling and Barb Oakman from the Kooringal Tennis Club and our Guest Speaker Brett Sommerville from PCYC.
Presentation of AED (Defibrillator) to Kooringal Tennis Club. Chair Geoff Breust with Barb Oakman and Judy Sterling.
In making the presentation Geoff said that the total spent on providing defibrillators is just over $90,000 with $60,000 of that sum coming from our Club. This is an outstanding effort. In accepting the defib. Barb thanked Rotary and said all members would be comforted knowing that the defib would be available in the event of a cardiac event. The oldest playing member of the Kooringal tennis club is over 90.
Michelle Maddison, today's guest speaker, has a distinguished career in curating. She has worked for the Maritime Museum being onboard historian for the replica ship Endeavour and since working at the Museum of the Riverina as curator, has presented a number of historic works including the Anzac Stories; Barbed Wire to Boundary Fences, soldier settlers in Tarcutta and Wantabadgery.
The main theme of Michelle's address was the changes and upgrade of the Museum of the Riverina located on Willans Hill. In May 2017 The Minister for Arts Don Harwin presented a sum of $1.88 million to upgrade the Museum. The successful grant came about after a detailed submission was made by Michelle to "Create Infrastructure NSW". The museum was also granted $200,000 by Wagga citizens via Wagga City Council.
The Willans Hill site was opened in the late 1960's by the Wagga Wagga Historical Society and was taken over by Wagga City Council in 1999.
Much of the infrastructure has deteriorated over the years and an upgrade was desperately needed to preserve the thousands of exhibits contained there.
During reconstruction, the exhibits have to be moved off site. This is a mammoth task. Every item has to be listed and sent to one of several offsite storage facilities. Many of the exhibits are very fragile and have to be handled with extreme care, for example a Murray Cod Head, stuffed Parrots, a one hundred year old wedding cake in a glass case. This long process will not be completed until November.
The architects were commissioned to provide double the storage amount, a staff room and a community meeting place, as well as the exhibition area and at the same time, meet a fixed budget. Construction will commence next year and it is hoped will be completed by the end of 2020.
In responding to a question Michelle said that the optimal location for a museum would be the riverside precinct, however there would still be need for the storage of many items at the Willans Hill site e.g. the many outdoor items such as farm machinery and the thousands of items kept in storage but not on display.
On behalf of those present, Michael Knight thanked Michelle for her informative address and presented her with a gift noting that they had a mutual birthplace: Newcastle. He also suggested that he could offer a site for the museum in the Riverside Precinct.
Stuart Heriot was called upon to introduce our Guest Speaker and this was accomplished in a most comprehensive manner.
We learned that Peter Thompson has qualifications in environmental science and law, including BSc (Hons), Bachelor of Laws, Master of Law, Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, Diploma of Management, and is an accredited specialist in Local Govt and Planning Law. At this point, Stuart stopped to draw breath!!!!
Peter spoke first about the concept of Special Activation Precincts, and why they are desirable. Our interstate neighbours have pursued business with streamlined planning and approval systems, while NSW has higher hurdles. The NSW govt will initially identify six areas, and "pre qualify" them for development by completing some environmental impact reports. Parkes was the first selected, Bomen was next, and Peter predicted that Williamtown was likely the third.
Any company looking to develop a factory in Wagga Wagga would benefit through ease of approval, developed infrastructure, and State Govt incentives. All the funding for these projects is provided by the sale of the Snowy Hydro.
Peter then addressed Digital connectivity, and indicated that three areas within Wagga will have spectacular internet speed, Bomen, the CBD and the Health Precinct. A big pipe for data, and quicker than Sydney or Melbourne, was the carrot dangled.
Electrical Transmission was the third leg of the trifecta, with connections to South Australia, Victoria, The Snowy scheme and local generation, both Uranquinty and Solar. Secure, clean power will be attractive to the data warehousing industry.
We were not surprised to learn that Wagga Wagga Council is short of qualified engineering staff. We have 11 engineers at WWCC, but Tamworth, a comparable council has 35 engineers. This provides an explanation why WWCC is setting up an office in Sydney, and is hopeful that new may attract some of our Sydney staff to Wagga in the future. Advertising for Sydney based engineering jobs for the WWCC drew 300 applicants. Nine positions were filled.
Peter commented that the best of the candidates were immediate "you're hired", and there were some "..........you wouldn't trust to put your wheelie bin out."
There were questions on subjects like approval delays, jobs for spouses, and freight and logistics plans. All were earnestly addressed.
Our Guest Speaker Patricia Wilkinson with Bob Willis (bro-in-law) and President David Pyke
Bob introduced our guest speaker Patricia Wilkinson who has an extensive employment history in Public Administration. Patricia is the Senior Advisor for the National Indigenous Australia's Agency set up to ensure fair and equitable economic and social participation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
Patricia has worked in Economic Development, National Parks, Regional Manager of Tourism Western New South Wales, AusIndustry, and Riverina Regional Tourism. She has a Masters in Economics and Regional Development, has sat on several boards and is passionate about building regional economies.
Patricia began by an acknowledgement of country. She said this is now well accepted into our culture and is a sign of a heightened awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Culture across Australia.
When asked how many Indigenous Australians of the Year there have been, we could manage to name only two or three. There have been nine:
Lionel Rose (1981), Yvonne Goolagong (1971), Galarrwuy Yunupingu (1978), Neville Bonner (1979, Lois O'Donoghue (1984), Mandawuy Yunupingu (1992), Cathy Freeman (1998), Michael Dodson (2009), and Adam Goodes (2014)
Past President Neil Pinto was our guest speaker and he told us of a very interesting life, growing up in one culture and then migrating
to Australia.
Neil was born in 1958 in Mumbai (Bombay) in India. Religious affiliation was a feature of Indian life. The population of Mumbai was predominantly Hindu but Neil's was a Catholic Christian community. His family came originally from Goa near India. Goa was colonised and thus influenced by the very catholic Portuguese.
Neil described an idyllic boyhood. Large open areas in which to roam and indulge childhood fantasies and hunt with sling shots. Pinching fruit from neighbours trees was a favourite pastime. Living near a beach encouraged the young Neil to love water sports and today he loves fishing and boating.
The area where Neil lived in Mumbai as a boy is now sterile and overcrowded. There are thousands of cars and kids spend their time indoors playing video games. This is reflected worldwide and is now the story of Australia as well it seems.
Neil's Dad was the general manager of Brittania Bakeries, supplying bread to 20 million people. After coming to Australia to learn some new technologies, Neil's dad decided to move the whole family permanently to Australia to obtain greater educational opportunities for his three obviously bright sons.
In 1970 they made the move and were headed for Sydney but remained in Perth, at the behest of some friends. However, Perth was then a much smaller centre and there were not many job opportunities, so they moved to Melbourne.
Attending De La Salle College with his elder and younger brother who both became medical doctors, Neil opted for Dentistry. He completed his degree at Melbourne University and then joined the Air Force. Posted to Wagga and then Darwin and finally Wagga again, Neil bought a Dental Practice in 1987.
In 1995 he decided to study orthodontics, again at Melbourne University. He then spent six months in Chicago, experiencing the latest techniques and worked for 8 years part time at a cleft palate clinic in Melbourne.
Neil's othodontic practice in Fox St has been a good experience. With nine staff he has been able to cut his work load back to 2 and a half days per week.
In 1986, Neil married Nola. Their two daughters, Naomi and Nadia, have enjoyed a great life in Wagga. They have gone on to establish successful careers. Neil loves Wagga, particularly Rotary, Cycling and playing his trumpet in the Wagga Community Band. Initially reluctant to come here, Neil is so glad he did and has no intention of leaving.
Neil answered a number of questions from members and this very popular Member was given a round of applause by those present.
President David Pyke is pictured with Fayah McKenzie and District Governor John McKenzie.
Tuesday was the DG's visit to Wollundry and John made a PowerPoint presentation outlining his own goals and objectives and those of current RI President Mark Maloney .
District Governor DG John McKenzie Visits Wollundry
David Pyke set a record on the changeover evening by winning the Rotarian of the Year award and being inducted as President for 2019-20. The club archives have no other Rotarian achieving such recognition. It was a popular evening with the politians with Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormick, State Member of Parliment Joe McGurr and our own Wagga Wagga Mayor Greg Conkey in attendance.
Miles Smith our guest speaker with avid cyclists Neil Pinto and Phil McIntosh
Miles arrived in Wagga Wagga at 8.30pm last Thursday. He hopped on his bike at 9.00pm outside the Wagga Police Station, and was farewelled by a small group of Wollundry Rotarians and cycling admirers.
His objective was to ride to Geelong, then turn around and return home to Melbourne, on the bike as the first leg of his world record attempt.
On Tuesday, Miles contacted Phil McIntosh and broke the news............Achillies tendon smashed - World record abandoned.
The story below is reprinted from May this year with these updates.
Members were astonished by the cycling feats of today's guest speaker Miles Smith. He was introduced by Phil McIntosh, the instigator of the Gears and Beers Festival. Phil told us that Miles had left Melbourne the previous evening at 7.30 pm on his bicycle and had arrived in Wagga in time for our meeting. That is an astonishing 450ks plus in under 15 hours! Riding on the Hume Highway! Phil said that Miles had contacted us because he admired what we do through our Gears and Beers Festival and wanted to redirect the sponsorship money he gets through our Club to Rotary Health.
Miles, who took up cycling in recent years and who is 58 years old, wants to break the Guiness Book World Record for the most number of kilometres ridden in a single year. This record is known as the HAMR, Highest Annual Mileage Record. With legs like tree trunks and Heart and Lungs to match, he plans to achieve his goal, by riding approximately 550 km per day, every day for a year, commencing in August. If successful, he will achieve over 90 other records along the way.
Miles currently works with the Rotary Club of Bright which organises The Alpine, a four peak 250km ride, regarded as one of the toughest rides in Australia. He wants to help with Polio eradication and has a number of Corporate Sponsors. He believes our Club can receive a lot of money from our work in cycling and he will donate his certificates for his various records which can be auctioned in tandem with our Gears and Beers festival.
Riding such long distances each day doesn't leave a lot of time for eating and sleeping, but Miles has simple but effective strategy. Each night before he rides he checks the weather forecast for wind direction the following day. He then sets our on the day of the ride, i.e. next morning, by taking his bike on a VicRail train against the wind for approx. 250ks. While on the train for about three hours he goes to sleep. He then rides with the wind back to Melbourne and repeats the exercise. By doing this he always rides with wind assistance which is legal under the terms of the record.
Miles' rides are constantly monitored and checked by Guiness. He carries four GPS trackers monitoring time, distance, heart rate etc. He also has a CB radio on his bike which allows him to talk to truck drivers. The latter call him the Hume Fairy, because of his hi vis clothing and not, he hopes, because they think he is a wuz.
Miles' trusty bike. Note the size of the drive gear sprocket. Miles averages 35ks an hour!
The furthest distance Miles has ridden in a day is 720 ks. An engaging ex-Yorkshireman with a good sense of humour, Miles told us that, needless to say, he is not married. Members were totally blown away by his physical capacity and even more so when he responded to a question about travelling home, that he said he was jumping on his bike for the return journey immediately after our meeting! Sleep could wait!
President James presented him with a bottle of Olive Oil produced by some of our members. He jokingly said it would be very useful for oiling his chain. At least we thought he was joking.
Members, somewhat awestruck, applauded this incredible human being.
President James opened our meeting with Grace and welcomed all our many visitors who included our guest speaker Miles Smith, Gerry Cross visiting Rotarian from Canterbury in Melbourne, Greg Ewings, Steve Hodgson (Riverina BMW) Ellie Webb (Country Hope), B. Wiscombe.
After giving his report, James invited Dave Foster to the podium. Being winter it seemed unusual but okay that he was wearing a beanie, but all was revealed when he said he had been dared to shave his head by Geoff Hamilton to meet his donation to Dave of $1000 fo.r the Leukemia foundation.
The result - a pretty sight? or not? you decide
FOOD AND WINE PRESENTATION
Steve Hodgoson (Riverina BMW major sponsor), Ellie Webb (Country Hope), and David Pyke (Chair Food and Wine) holding the cheque for $40,000 presented to Country Hope from Wollundry Rotary.
Chairman of the Food and Wine Festival Committee David Pyke presented the cheque to Country Hope representative Ellie Webb and in doing so praised Country Hope for the magnificent work they do with children with cancer and their families. David thanked all those who made the festival a success again in particular the Rotary Club of Wollundry members and the Committee who have worked hard, not only this year, but in prior years to make the festival such a success. He also thanked the volunteers from Country Hope who assisted as well as volunteers from other recipient organisations in the past. Thanks also to BMW who have been a major sponsor yet again.
From 2009 to 2019 Wollundry Rotary has distributed $441,000 to local organisations, proceeds of the food and wine festival.
Ellie Webb, on behalf of Country Hope thanked Wollundry for the generous donation. The funds will be used to assist children and families in a variety of ways. Already this year there are 8 more families being assisted with the average per year being seventeen families.
BMW Riverina owner Steve Hodson added his endorsement to Ellie's words and praised the new venue at the Victory Memorial Gardens.
FARMERS MARKET AND SERGEANT
John Flynn had a dual role today and extracted a good amount of money from the relatively small number of members attending today's meeting. He stayed away from the Jewish jokes but perhaps he should return to that rich store. Maybe Annette has hidden the book again?
John was Farmers Market OIC and had the following excellent team:
David Byfield, Nick Leywood, Kerry Pascoe, Rob Pearson, David Post, Jeremy Reithmuller, Craig Bellamy, Ken Taylor, Paul Murray, Peter MacKinnon, Adrian Whiting and Bob Willis.
Stalls $1,630
Gate $ 362
B/cue $ 480
Less ex $ 144
Banked $2,328
Any guesses on the identity of the visitor pictured on the right?
VISITORS
Our visitors today were: Gerry Cross, Greg Ewings, Miles Smith, Steve Hodgson, Ellie Webb and B. Wiscombe
ATTENDANCE
Makeups: David Byfield, Adrian Whiting, Ken Taylor, Peter Green, Bob Willis, Craig Bromley, Peter MacKinnon.
Apologies: Laurie Blowes, Rob Nicholson, Jonty Shuter, Geoff Breust, Graham Burmeister, Shane Carroll, Peter Clucas, Doug Conkey, Ken Cook, Peter Crozier, John Egan, John Hawkins, Mark Hillis, Pat Ingram, John Ireland, Michael Knight, Nick Leywood, John Mason, Paul Murray, Graeme Obst, Robert Pearson, Andrew Puckeridge, Malcolm Robertson, John Smith, David Wishart.
A LETTER FROM CHINA
Burmo in China surrounded by local school students. Here is what he had to say:
Letter to Bulletin Editor Today we are visiting and talking to this beautiful mountain school ‘s pupils. I have always subscribed to the view that mountain people all over the world relate to each other and the one group we next relate to are those from the outback and desert. City, plains,coastal and town people relate better with the same as them all over the world. The students were curious and beside wanting to practise their English , and correct their pronunciation, were keen to ask questions , within the expected correctness, about Oz.
I enjoyed their company very much , their natural shyness and curiosity. It was a joy.
MaYan and I will enbus in a local bus down the mountain. The irony is that although MaYan speaks four languages fluently ( including Northern dialect AnHui and Mandarin) and understands two other languages she refuses point blank to learn Southern dialect. So we both will have to use our wits and sign language to get back to SuSong ( a small town of 1 million). It is going to be hilarious.
Burmo
LUCKY DRAW PRIZE
Richard Rossiter was the winner of a bottle of red!
Peter Moroney was introduced by PP Paul Milde. Paul said that Peter is retired from the Police Force and had served for 17 years and retired at the rank of a Detective Sergeant.
Peter has had a long-time association with Rotary. When he was a young officer he organised a charity bike ride that was supported by Rotary. His talk was about a joint counter terrorism investigation, which was conducted by the AFP, ASIO and the Victorian Police. The investigation started in 2004. Peter wrote a book about the investigation which was referred to “Operation Pandanus” from an investigator’s point of view. He felt the beginning of the effect of terrorism on our own homelands was Sept 11, 2001. His talk, to a great extent was about Islamic terrorism but he stressed that the number of actual Islamic terrorists would not number to over 50 to 100. He spoke about the Australian born terrorists who were instrumental in recruiting young individuals to fight in foreign lands for ISIS.
John Ferguson received the following update on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Condo (DRC) from his sister Barbara. His comments and Barbara's communication are reprinted below.
Hi Paul,
Please see Barb's brief update and photos from the DRC.
This was her 11th visit to the DRC during April. As you are aware Wollundry has made substanial donations of thousands of dollars over a period of nearly 10 years to ensure the success of the health and education programs to the Pygmy village of Mubambiro. As you can see from the photos it is our money well spent!
The DRC is still one of the most dangerous countries in the world to visit. Along with the Ebola eperdemic that still exists, there are kidnappings and massacres of innocent villagers. One of the staff employed by Barb at Mubambiro was recently kidnapped but was returned unharmed. Meanwhile there was a massacre of villagers not far from Mubambiro by armed infiltrators. By the time the United Nations forces arrived the murderers had vanished.
Barb also extends to our club her massive thanks for our support.
Also please use any of my notes for the bulletin too. YIR
John
Dear Family - I’m just back from my last trip to DRCongo:
Goma on Ebola alert - loudspeakers screaming “Ebola! Ebola!” at the entrance to the hospitals and checkpoints on the road, where temperatures are taken and huge drums of almost neat chlorine are set up with a row of taps for compulsory washing of hands - and people greet each other by bumping elbows rather than the usual brushing of cheeks or shaking of hands.
Mubambiro Pygmy village: where the children are clean and so much healthier, no sign of malnutrition, as a result of our holistic program of education, nutrition and health care. Our 5 paid staff of carers are assisted by a pair of the 14 women, pregnant or breast feeding, who are on a roster to help out for a week in return for the food and medical care they are given as part of the maternal and child health program.
Our team of 4 management staff are functioning well together and have won the confidence of the villagers - to the extent that almost all the village children are now happily involved in the programs: 138 children under 7 years in the one big room! This is wonderful but poses the necessity for a second building!
14 children continue in primary school, 3 boys in high school. All 3 boys are doing well - and one, Heritier, has taught himself enough English that we were able to have a lengthy conversation. He and Ubusi are following a nutrition specialisation and take pride in watching out for children in the village who are not attending the programs while Eric, the star high school graduate from last year is studying nursing and helping out in small ways at the monthly health clinic. Mustafa, the 3rd boy in high school is specialising in construction and eager to help out when we start the new building - which depends on funds above the monthly maintenance amount of $2300 coming in, of course.
Porridge when they arrive every morning - a meal such as sweet potato and fish sauce before they go home.
Peter Moroney was introduced by PP Paul Milde. Paul said that Peter is retired from the Police Force and had served for 17 years and retired at the rank of a Detective Sergeant.
Peter has had a long-time association with Rotary. When he was a young officer he organised a charity bike ride that was supported by Rotary. His talk was about a joint counter terrorism investigation, which was conducted by the AFP, ASIO and the Victorian Police. The investigation started in 2004. Peter wrote a book about the investigation which was referred to “Operation Pandanus” from an investigator’s point of view. He felt the beginning of the effect of terrorism on our own homelands was Sept 11, 2001. His talk, to a great extent was about Islamic terrorism but he stressed that the number of actual Islamic terrorists would not number to over 50 to 100. He spoke about the Australian born terrorists who were instrumental in recruiting young individuals to fight in foreign lands for ISIS.
DisTec19 is completed and we had over 50 great students, helpers and support persons.
After some teething problems with circuit breakers and computer hardware issues, the day settled into a relaxing learning experience with outstanding food from Ros and her staff.
There were a dozen Rotarians from District 9710 including DG Margaret Hassall and 42 Rotarians from District 9700 including DG John Glassford and DGE John McKenzie. After introductory and Intermediate sessions in ClubRunner, Rotarians charged into the exercise of creating a proper Story with text and a photograph. The compiled photographs and text has been published as a bulletin entitled DisTec Dispatch which identifies most of the Rotarians with pictures, names and brief articles. To review the publication just click here.
The following are some photos of the day:
John Horton from Murrumburra-Harden and David Post from Wollundry
Doug Kinlyside from Bathurst Daybreak added the following story.
I am reflecting on being on the stage in this Young Town Hall at my Year 6 Graduation from Young North Public School in 1965. The hall looks really nice now, but a lot smaller. Just realizing how much technology has changed since 1965!
DisTec Training Team Paul Murray, Paul Weston and DGE John McKenzie
Rob Pearson, F and W 3 days, David Byfield and David Pyke, Brd Mtg, 15/04,
LOA
Laurie Blowes and Rob Nicholson
Apologies
Doug Conkey, Greg Conkey, Ken Cook, Frank Fuller, John Ferguson, Ward Gator, Mark Hillis, David Hodge, John Ireland, Michael Knight, Peter MacKinnon, John Mason, Phil McIntosh, Tim McMullen, Richard Rossiter, John Smith, Doug Sutton, Dave Wishart, Adrian Whiting, Darren Wallace, Rick Priest for 03-10/05
Past President Paul Milde welcomed us all with Rotary Grace, and thanked all volunteers this week
involved in the Gumi Race Day, Polio PLus Film night and the Honour Guard for Michael Georgiou.
Paul wished a speedy recovery to Laurie Blowes with a back operation, Helen Fuller is recovering well
and Rick Priest has seen the light with his cataract removal!
President Paul fixing our Rotary Banner....again.
Frank Fuller
Science Challenge
Frank organised the volunteers to help with day at Mater Dei High School, set up Wednesday and
pack up Thursday.
David Pyke Food and Wine Festival
David reminded us the Festival is coming up soon on the 23rd Of March 2019 - Save the Date!
We have appointed Katie Oneil as our Admin and marketing assistant for the festival.
Sergeant Peter Clucas
Peter inflicted twice the pain with fines and unkind comments about how Fat our shirts were looking!
Exchange Student Irene
Irene attended a dressage competition at the CSU ewquestrian complex and is off to Melbourne next week.
Phil Mcintosh and Paul Murray - Gears and Beers
Phil and Paul gave a big thankyou to the Lake Albert, Yathella and Junee Rural Fire Services
for their help on the day with the gears and beers festival. A much appreciated water display greeted the riders at the top of Yathella road climb. The Wollundry Rotary club donated $1500.00
A highlight of today was the induction of our newest member Shane Carroll.
Shane and his wife Mary have just sold their business, South West Irrigation, and now he is looking to give a bit back to the community which he says supported him so well. Shane was introduced by Mark Hillis, who has been friend for a few years.
He loves his AFL , but his choice of club resulted in a few groans!
Science Challenge
PP Frank Fuller is looking for assistance with trestles and tables at the Science Challenge, this year being held at the Mater Dei High School Hall. The date is March 7th. Please let him know if you can give a hand!
District Conference
Gerry Gerlach again reported that the conference is on in Griffith on the last weekend of March. Gerry has booked accommodation at the Grand Hotel. The cost is $170 per room for two. A good program has been prepared and should be fun. Speak to Gerry if you would like to book. The Kapooka Band will be playing on Saturday evening, and you could win the Charleston Competition!
Further to this is the Ride for Polio which is being held across the District. Wagga clubs are riding Lockhart, wagga Coolamon. You will receive a T shirt if you would like to be in it. Please see John Ferguson.
While on his feet, PP John mentioned the Movie night Friday March 1, and the Peace Day events. He also got in a plug for the very best in Tennis being held at the grass courts in Albury this weekend if you are in town!.
District Grants
Hello Club Presidents,
It’s my pleasure to announce that applications for the 2019-20 District Grants are now open.
Club grant applications are not restricted, however usually in the $500 to $3,000 AUD range and generally as a matching grant to club funds.
Applications close on 31St May 2019.
Successful Applications will be announced by the District Governor at the District Changeover Dinner in June 2019
Projects are usually started and completed in the Rotary Year, 1st July 2019 to 30th June 2020
If you are interested in obtaining a District Grant contact: Alex (above), Doug Sutton or John Ferguson
Peace Day
PP Rick Priest has done a great deal of work with the Peace Committee, and we are all set to go. The event will be held in the Victory memorial Gardens this coming Sunday at 6pm. Please wear your white shirts.
PP John Fergusonneeds volunteers to erect tents at the venue, at 5pm that day. Please get in touch with himself or Paul Milde if you can help.
Polio Plus Movie Night.
Its on!! Friday March 1st at the Forum 6 Cinema. Tickets are $20 pp. and demand is high. They are moving already.We are going to have a meal after at The Duke.The club will supply food, buy your own drinks! So get with your partner and friends and join us for a great night out. Please contact either John Egan or Bob Willis if you intend to come. There has been an email sent to all members, so if you are coming you can respond to that.
Tickets will be distributed at next weeks meeting, so please have your money ready.
International Fellowship of Cricketing Rotarians
David Benn would like to highlight this event which will take place in Cairns Nth Qld in June. Could be a good place to visit if you are travelling north for the winter. David says the Festival will be good fun and an opportunity to meet up with fellow Rotarians from around Australia and overseas.
Sergeants Session.PPPeter Crozier managed to squeeze a few coins out of the group, but his main target was Wollundry's golf doyen, David Byfield. Not only did he win the lucky door prize twice, he returned a score of 30 in a current play. Extraordinary, and he paid dearly.
Apologies
Jeremy Riethmuller, Doug Conkey, Ward Gaiter, John Gray, David Hodge, Tim Hutchings, John Mason, James McNaughton, Robert Nicholson, Robert Pearson, John Hawkins, Steve McCoy, Tim McMullen, Doug Sutton, John Ireland, Paul Murray,Ken Cook, John Hawkins, Darren Wallace, Wal Paton, Pat Ingram, Stuart Herriot, Rob Nicholson, Laurie Blowes, Col Duff.
Makeups
James Hamilton,James Ross, David Byfield, Paul Milde, Adrian Whiting, Peter Green, Nick Leywood, David Benn, Raoul Macharenas
Libby Clohessy is the manager of a unique Wagga initiative, The Leisure Company
It was formed some 29 years ago by a group of concerned parents who were looking to give their disabled children activities to fill in their time and to help them socialise. It was funded by the Department of Health and came under the auspices of Kurrajong Waratah. In recent times that has changed and the NDIS is now the funding source. Before they had certainty, knowing exactly what funding was coming . Under NDIS the activities take place, then the funds come through. Same, but different!!
The centre employs 65 staff, and provides events and experiences for some 184 children. The carer ratio has to be high as some of these people have difficulties that need close attention.
They have 14 vehicles to transport their clients. Ranging as far as Henty to Coolamon, the centre provides a range of activities which help them to become active participants in the community, and to socialise with their peers. Weekend trips away give the parents some respite, and they are just back from a trip to Wollongong.
The centre does provide for work experience. They worker will be chaperoned, and the time periods can be from an hour or so to whatever fits! The sorts of things they can do are probably limited a little, but gardening to office work were mentioned. The Men's Shed is a favourite of some, and they really enjoy the company of the men out there.
The centre also provides a great service picking up from school and caring until the parents finish work.
There are two premises, 69 and 72 Peter St.
Libby fielded several questions and was thanked by Paul Milde.
Mayor Greg pictured with our exchange student Irene Chung.
Our guest speaker today was Club Member and Mayor, PP Greg Conkey. Wearing his Mayoral hat Greg provided us with some facts and figures about Wagga and then opened the floor for questions.
Some of the facts included:
Wagga Population 66,000 based on the last census; $1.5 Billion of assets; $1 Billion of development applications.
107 languages are spoken in Wagga by over 110 different ethnicities.
Wagga has 1.3 million visitors per year.
The median house price is $347,000.
The retail catchment population is 190.000.
There are 116 medical specialists and 90 + G.P's.
Wagga holds many festivals and community events. Some of the biggest are Fusion, attracting 14,000 people, Food and Wine Festival and the Gears and Beers festival.
The second stage of the levy bank has started. North Wagga is a contentious spot and discussions are to be held with community representatives in the next week of so.
Eunony Bridge needs upgrading.
Riverside Precinct to receive $5 million upgrade.
Museum of the Riverina will receive a $3 million upgrade.
The Active Transport Strategy will proceed costing $20 million.
The Multi Purpose Stadium costing $9 Million is underway.
A new Nursing Home is proposed for South Campus.
The Freight Terminal at Bomen has been approved and will move forward as soon as the deed is signed by the State Government.
A new school at CSU to be built for a cost of $38 million.
In response to members questions Greg said that the Bomen Estate is the jewel in Wagga's crown and will generate growth for years to come. Nearby Estella has a growth rate of 5.8%, one of the highest in the state. The Fast train proposal restricts the distance to a 300 k radius from Sydney, so Wagga will miss out but Council is trying to change the government's mind.
David Pyke thanked Greg for his very informative update for the club which was greatly appreciated by members.
President James opened the meeting on the dot of 12.30 pm with Rotary Grace and a toast to the Queen and the People of Australia. He then welcomed visitors Michael and Leonie Kiley from the Rotary Club of Kirriemuir, Scotland who were guests of David Benn; Shane Carrol guest of Mark Hillis and he welcomed back Michael Georgiou and Tim Barter.
James then invited David Benn to introduce his guests to the club.
Michael and Leonie Kiley from Kirriemuir Rotary Club with L to R John Gray, David Benn, Greg Conkey, Peter Crozier and John Flynn who are all members of he International Federation of Cricketing Rotarians.
Michael Kiley thanked the club for the opportunity to speak. He told us that Kirriemuir is on the east coast of Scotland between Aberdeen and Dundee. It is, he said, the birthplace of Peter Pan and Bon Scott. Their club has thirty eight members including seven women. Leonie is one of the newer members. Kirriemuir Rotary Club is involved with an international project in Nepal helping with setting up a school and teachers. They are visiting Australia for a month ending with the Rotary Cricket festival in Melbourne.
Leonie said they love Australia but for their next visit to Wagga they won't choose this time of year.
Leonie and Michael presented President James with this rather interesting banner from their Rotary Club.
Food and Wine Festival
David Pyke spoke to the Club to inform them that, following an emergency meeting last Tuesday, he had agreed to take on the Chairmanship of the Festival and will be relying on members to produce the Festival again this year. A new position of Operations Manager was filled by Peter MacKinnon. Both positions will have assistants and they will come form the Committee and will be announced in the next couple of weeks. David was very pleased with the rollup of twenty three members to the meeting which he said showed the enthusiasm of the Club to make the Festival a success again this year.
David made special mention of Laurie Blowes who deserves a very big thank you from the Club for the outstanding work
he has done for the festival in the past. Laurie has provided David with all the information he has to help get this year's festival off the ground.
David Byfield will again be organising the rosters for the Festival and these will be available next week. With only nine weeks to go it is a case of all hands on deck and Members Partners would be most welcome if they could assist with the running of the festival. David will be preparing spread sheets for various tasks and will call upon those who have volunteered, both from within the committee and the Club generally.
Peace Ceremony
Rick Priest, Chair of the Peace Ceremony Committee, informed members that the Peace Ceremony this year has been moved to 7 p.m. on Sunday 24th February at the Victory Memorial Gardens. Our Club is responsible for this year's set up and Rick will be looking for volunteers to assist. There will be a meeting at the Commercial Club next Tuesday at 5 p.m. to discuss arrangements. Members are asked to come up with nominations for a peace award from our club. Testimonials should be limited to no more than two pages, preferably one.
Sergeant
Today's sergeant John Flynn chose Gerry Gerlach to carry the fine box. There were groans from the members when Flynny revealed that he had found his Jewish joke book that Annette had carefully hidden. Thankfully he did not produce it but told a joke that again brought forth groans: A Bear walks into a bar and orders a whisky and ------------ coke. Bartender "why the pause? Bear "I was born with them"
Fines were imposed on Gerry Gerlach, Neil Pinto and David Foster.
Virat Kholi aka Neil Pinto cross fined Peter Crozier who had given him a hard time when Australia won its only test against India. Neil presented Peter with no 40 grit sandpaper. It appears the said paper is about to disappear down Peter's trousers!
Paul Milde organised a 'Know your Member" quiz. It was won in a tie breaker by a table of four consisting of Pat Ingram, Doug Conkey, Gerry Gerlach and ?
Makeups
Tim Hutchings, Stuart Heriot
Apologies
John Hawkins, Jeremy Reithmuller, Craig Bromley, Ken Cook, Peter Crozier, Stuart Heriot, David Hodge, Tim Hutchings, Nick Leywood, Peter MacKinnon, John Mason, Paul Murray, Graeme Obst, Robert Pearson, David Post, Steve McCoy, John Ireland.
Visitors
Mike Kiley, Leonie Kiley, Shane Carrol
The Navigate Nine Rotary Food and Wine Team
L - R David Byfield, Bob Connolly (former Member of Wollundry), Peter Crozier, Gerry Gerlach, David Benn, Doug Sutton and Pat Ingram, David Pyke (absent). A lady member of the golf club wanted to know if we were raising funds for the McGrath Foundation!
The Lucky member's draw was won by Peter Crozier on the fourth draw.
President James opened the meeting with Rotary Grace and invited our exchange student Irene to
give the club a quick update on her week, which included a trip to the music conservatorium and
helping out at the Saturday Market on the weekend.
The Club AGM was held and the icoming board for 2019 was introduced.
President Secretary
David Pyke James Ross
Treasurer James Hamilton
Adrian Whiting Past President
Colin Duff Paul Milde
Public Relations Membership
Neil Pinto Paul Murray
Youth Service District Secretary
John Hawkins
Foundation
Saturday Market Report
Neil Pinto led the Team and had a very successful Saturday Market, raising $4742 for our community projects. Neil gave special thanks to John Smith for his help with stallholders and
doing the background work to increase the number of stallholders and the customers at the market.
Paul Milde
Paul took the last orders for Christmas cakes, and reminded the club about the lillier lodge dinner on Wednesday night. There is a movie night for End Polio on 1/3/2019 and the White Ribbon lake walk will be held on 23/11/2018.
John Egan
The Mens Rural Health Van will be in wagga next week and John is looking for two volunteers
for Monday and Tuesday next week.
Their is a Mental Health first aid course at Romanos this weekend.
Member Update - Tim Hutchings
Tim was born in Yerong creek, went to Melbourne for school and then to Armidale to complete
his study. Tim started out in the 1967 drought and was active Off the farm. He went too England
studying wheat and uses for computers on farm. He met with a farm management group and brought the idea back to Australia, where he started one of the first Farm Management groups.
This initial group of like minded farmers grew to become Farm Management 500 hich serviced
over 400 farming families with a group of 13 consultants.
Tim became a rural consultant in wagga and then Canberra, where he consulted for politicians,
was with Australian Wool Research and Development and was on the small business committee of
the Reserve Bank of Australia.
In 2008 Tim sold his farm and did a PHd in Farm Business Risk, and joined the board of
Nuffeld Australia, which sends young farmers around the world to learn and experience other farming systems.
Meeting today includes Club’s Annual General meeting
Community Dinner at Lilier Lodge on Wednesday 14th November 2018. Volunteers needed.
Mental health First aid training course will be held this coming Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th November at Romano’s. Paul Milde and John Egan are attending as club representatives. Other club members are welcome to sit in on various sessions during the training course.
Thing Tank group are meeting this Thursday at 5.30pm to progress discussions on synergies and succession planning.
Public Relations seminar will be held on the 10th February 2019 in Young for anyone interested in learning how to promote Rotary in the wider world. Please let me know if you are interested in attending.
The 7 Rotary and Rotaract presidents met last Wednesday to further progress drought relief schemes. RAWCS has set out strict conditions on how the drought appeal funds will be expended and accounted for. The clubs decided that a web site is to be developed to assist in communicating and educating for clubs and drought assistance schemes. Our club drought relief committee is to make application for funding for the development of the web site.
The club wish Norma Gray and Frank Fuller all the best for the upcoming operations and we hope and pray that all goes well and that they have a speedy recovery.
Enjoy your day serving the community and building good relations and goodwill.
Raised some dollars from the members and some laughs with the story of the dead irishman
who died with few houses but many windows to clean!
Cheque Presentation.
Gears and Beers Chairman Phil Macintosh presented Claire Lawler from Rotaract with a cheque
for $600 for their help with this years Event.
Guest Speaker
Guest Speaker Cec Noak
Introduced to the club by Rick Priest, Cec gave a first hand account of the recent fires at Tathra
and their recovery efforts. He spoke of how the fire was devastating for the region, and how some
houses were spared beside other property that was destroyed. The town is being rebuilt, with the
first houses to be finished by the end of this year.
Guest Speaker
Guest Speaker Michael Milston - End Trachoma Project 2020
Michael is a Past President of Orange Daybreak Rotary club, and is promoting a project identified
by Rotary President Ian Risely to eradicate Trachoma by 2020.
Trachoma is the leading cause of blindness, and is an infection of the eyes. The disease is spread by contact, and appears in remote communities with limited health services.
Trachoma is preventable with treatment by antibiotics and teaching and implementing simple
hygiene routines of face and hand washing in clean water. These simple procedures can be difficult
to implement in communities without the help of local leaders, education and facilities for keeping
hands and faces clean and laundry disinfected.
Rotary is funding many projects to eradicate Trachoma including use of simple washing machines,
water saving, sanitation, and community education.
Our Guest Speaker Dr. Tony McMullen with President James Hamilton
Dr. Tony was introduced by his brother Tim, a member of our club. Tim told us that his brother is married to Veronica and has two children and has a resume that reads:
•Born and Educated in Wagga, Married with 2 children
•Medical Education at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland 1984
•Member of the RACGP & Australasian College of Tropical Medicine
•Master of Public Health & Tropical Medicine James Cook University 2001
•Work:
–Royal Flying Doctor Service & Aboriginal Medical Services in WA, NT & Qld
–Ireland, France, Botswana, Vietnam
–Indonesia since 1997, mainly as health advisor with large resource construction projects
•Newmont (Copper/Gold, USD2Billion), BP (LNG, USD5Billion)
–Medical Director BP South-East Asia
–Founded Persada Children’s Health in 2005
–Returned to live and work as GP in Sydney 2009
Tony came to talk about his work in West Papua where he founded Persada Children's Health also known as ASP which is an acronym for the Papuan translation of Persada Children's Health.
West Papua has been a passion for Tony since 1997 when he came across a boy named Ronaldo who had a congenital heart defect. Tony was working for a large company at the time and was able to raise funds to send Ronaldo to Singapore for life saving and life changing surgery.
Ronaldo on his grandfather's knee, a sick little boy and right Ronaldo as a healthy young teenager
After Ronaldo's surgery, there was an amount of money left over, so Tony decided to start a foundation and since then numerous children have been sent to other countries for life saving surgery.
The foundation is situated in Sorong, the largest city in West Papua with a population of 220,000. It targets Malaria reduction and the treatment of Rotavirus, a diarrhea causing virus responsible for the deaths of many young children and infants. ASP deals with Malaria by treating the patients as vectors of the disease and effecting a cure in the individual patients. The reduction in Malaria cases has been dramatic.
Malaria prevalence surveys in BP Tangguh villages Teluk Bintuni, Papua, from 2003-2008
These are the health statistics that Dr Tony gave us regarding health in West Papua.
•Children:
–Deaths of children in the first year of life almost 2 times the Indonesian average
–The Under-5 death rate is more than twice the national average
–4 out of 10 children of children are stunted
–One quarter are under-weight
•Health Equity:
–Just over 1/3 children receive their complete basic immunization
–Only 4/10 health centres are able to provide sufficient numbers of doctors
–Only 1/8 health centres are able to provide sufficient numbers of midwives
–Only 4/10 of health centres are able to provide sufficient numbers of nurses
•Water, Sanitation & Hygiene:
–4/10 people don’t have access to safe drinking water
–More than ½ don’t have access to improved sanitation
•Infectious Disease:
–1/10 people still suffer from Malaria
–Just over half of the population are immunized against Polio (*****)
–3/10 people do not receive immunization against TB
Tony feels that the best approach to tackling these issues is through a business model rather than a charity model.
The aim is obviously to reduce poverty, access to clean water and sanitation and provide the very basics for a decent safe life.
What can we as Rotarians do to help?
"A strategic, well-managed collaboration between Rotary Against Malaria, ASP, local government & the private sector could make a very significant impact on Malaria transmission in West Papua"
1.Collaboration of Rotary Against Malaria, ASP, local government, private sector
2.Improve surveillance systems
–Identify ‘hot spots’ of Malaria in Papua Barat
–Prevalence surveys, develop strategic plan, pilot program
–Training of health staff on detection and reporting of new cases
3.Train EDAT Malaria Workers
–To ensure early detection and treatment as the most effective method of reducing malaria
–Train Microscopists
4.Employ a ‘gold standard’ Microscopist for cross-checking
5.Mid-term goal: Demonstrate success of pilot program, build local government capacity, influence government policy & eventual ‘ownership’ of the program.
What would this cost?
1.Improve surveillance systems
•Cost of expert to train local health workers and Microscopists (AUD4,000)
2.Employ a local ‘gold standard’ Microscopist for a year (AUD10,000 pa)
3.Adopt a village
•Increase coverage with LLINs (?)
•Funding: Approximately AUD15,000 for first year
Could this be an opportunity for another Global Grant?
Perhaps we could help to put more smiles on the faces of our near neighbours.
Frank Fuller and John Flynn had both come prepared for the role today, and Frank graciously withdrew, leaving John to entertain the troops.
He told us that at her last start, a punter had outlaid $145 000 on Winx, to win $28 000. Another recent bet was on Roger Federer to beat John Millman in the US open tennis. The stake was $35 000, to win $700 - very short odds. The bookie was the happiest participant!!!!
The sergeant reckoned that septicaemia was caused by fear, and flying with Smithy was to blame. Cheap shot.
A dam across Tatton Creek could be a target for a Dambusting Luftwagga, and Greg Conkey was singled out for attention.
I attended the announcement of funding of $1.2 million to the Wagga Women's Health Centre last Tuesday by Minister Pru Goward.
Following is quote from Gail Meyers, Manager of the Wagga Women's Health Centre to me. Photo shows Gail Meyers with Pru Goward at the announcement.
John, Thank you for your attendance today at the announcement of a little over $1.2 million for the next stage of the DVproject:2650 by the Hon. Pru Goward.
Please pass on our thanks and gratitude to all the members of the Rotary Club of Wollundry for their support of this project. Without Wollundry's initial funding of a grant of $40,000 from the 2015 Food & Wine Festival for research into domestic violence in Wagga Wagga, this larger grant from the government would not have been possible.
TheDVproject:2650 has three phases:
1. RESEARCH
To understand what domestic violence looks like in Wagga Wagga and to establish evidence base for future interventions.
2. STRATEGIC PLANNING
Work with the community to develop prevention activities across multiple settings, based on best practice and local research.
3. ROLL OUT OF INTERVENTIONS
Such as prevention activities in multiple settings.
We welcomed Irene our exchange student and Sally to the meeting for the first time. Sally Puckeridge introduced Irene Chung to club members.
Fighting for our Farmers drought relief fund is a fund supported by Rotary in Australia, National Farmers Federation & Channel 9. Our farmers are in crisis. Record breaking heat and lack of rain means farmers are struggling to feed and water livestock. Families on the land are suffering and they need our help to put food on the table. Rotary in Australia, Channel 9 have partnered with National Farmers Federation launching an appeal to big business and everyday Australians so we can provide some emergency relief. 100% of donations will be distributed to farmers and is tax deductible via Rotary and RAWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service). The goal is to raise $10M. The amount donated so far is $750K.
A number of comments were made by members which include how and who will administer the funds; If no crops in 2018 then we need to keep our powder dry for autumn 2019; Need to have community fun days conducted by community service clubs in order to get families off the farm for a short time and show that we care and it is no cost to the farming fraternity and a need to have professional people at the community fun days to provide professional support when and where required; With the partnership formed will there be other linkages with other community groups such as CWA to ensure that we are not going over the same areas; Need to have a communication linkage with farming families on an ongoing basis in the region/district so as to provide support and assistance when and where needed; Associated businesses providing services and goods to the farming community will be adversely affected so they will need some form of support as well; Feedback to local service clubs - how will information of needs etc will be channelled to clubs and businesses; Both State and Federal Governments are providing financial support but there will need to have a review from time to time.
Comments have been passed along DG John for consideration and response.
Former member Jim Gibson advised that Wagga Wagga’s Biggest Ever Blokes’ Lunch will be held on Friday 31st August at Commercial Club. Funds raised will be donated for further research into Prostate Cancer.
Congratulations to Rick Priest and members of the Men’s Shed based Ashmont for their 10th Anniversary and the benefits which they provide to the local community.
Thanks to John Smith and Tim Barter for banner and signage display for Saturday markets.
Thanks to members who have paid their subs but a reminder to members who are still to pay subs (annual or quarterly).
Monday afternoon July 30th , Irene Chung, our new exchange student from Taiwan, arrived at the airport and was greeted by Darren Wallace, Paul and Carolyn Murray, Neil Pinto and Wollundry President James Hamilton. Also at the airport to greet Irene were Sally and Andrew Puckeridge her first host parents.
Nick gave an interesting insight into the ways people in financial difficulties can be assisted to work through their particular situation. Nick works with Wagga Wagga Family Support and his services a free and privacy is always respected. Nick covered a raft of ways he is able to assist, including
Budgeting, Payment plans, negotiating with creditors, waiving of debts, early access to super funds
and bankruptcy assistance. The funding for Nicks work comes from a levee on all gambling receipts in NSW, and he is one of several counsellors in Wagga.
Nick works with many local organisations including Legal Aid, Centrelink, NSW Ombudsman,
President Paul handed over the reins to incoming President James Hamilton at a top night.
Past President Paul outlined the work that he and the club had achieved through the year and made special mention of the great successes. All in all there was $178000 donated which shows just how important Rotary is to the community. His full report will appear soon on the website.
PP Paul thanked his Board for their untiring work, and made special mention of Laurie Blowes (Food and Wine Festival), Phil Macintosh (Gears and Beers) and John Smith (Markets)
Our special guest was PDE Bruce Barber who responded to the Toast to RI. He was accompanied by his wife and E Club member Ruth.
David Benn entertained us with his rendition of poetry. He read a sobering work from a contributor to a website he frequents which spoke of the battle some fight with mental health, and then lightened it up with the painful story of a man and his plastic chair! Both were very well received and brought tears to the eyes in more ways than one.
Another highlight of the night was the presentation to former member Craig Couzens and his wife Maggie for their gift over time of $10,000 to Australian Rotary Health. They were made Gold Companions and recognised as the longest continuous contributors to Australian Rotary Health in the whole of Australia..
PP Peter Crozier was awarded Club Rotarian of the Year.
Michael Georgiou, not to be outdone, told the fateful story of a man, his mother in law and a fear of religious revisiting.At the same time he donated a large sum towards the work of Wollundry as at the moment he feels he cannot contribute physically. A very generous gesture.
The night saw the awarding of two Paul Harris Saphire Pins, one to Doug Conkey and the other to John Egan. These were awarded by the Foundation for their support over the last several years.
Attendance was another item. Paul Milde, David Benn, David Pyke, James Ross, James Hamilton, Neil Pinto , Michael Georgiou and David Byfield all had full attendances recorded.. David is 100% for every year of his membership. He was inducted to Wollundry on the very first Changeover.
Last night Phil Burgess became the second person inducted at a Wollundry Changeover. Congratulations to all and a warm welcome to Phil.
PP Paul handed out Certificates of Appreciation to several hardworking members of the Club. These went to PP Michael Knight, PP Phil Macintosh, John Smith and PP David Byfield.
He also recognised the Bulletin Editors, PP Michael Knight, PP Paul Murray, Peter McKinnon , PP Doug Sutton and PP John Egan. Each received a nice bottle of red.
All of this was to the background slideshow that Paul Murray set up from his own and collected images.
President James then took over procedings and thanked PP Paul for his work through the year, then introduced his new Board.
This fine body includes: James Ross (Secretary) ,Aidrian Whiting (Treasurer), David Byfield (Service Proj) Neil Pinto (Youth), Peter Green (Admin), Col Duff (Public Relations),and John Ferguson (Foundation). Paul Milde is Past President, and David Pyke is incoming President. It should be another top year with this balanced management crew.
It was a very good night with plenty of fellowship and friendship, as Rotary should be.
Phil Hoey, pictured above with Paul Milde, was our Guest Speaker today. Phil, who is well known to our Club and is considered a good friend, is Wagga's best known Paramedic. He has previously given us instructions on CPR and how to use a defibrillator.
Being a Paramedic, Phil told us is both challenging and rewarding. Because he has been an Ambulance Officer since 1975 and most of this time has worked in Wagga, he is very well known and therefore mostly encounters a friendly face when he goes to a call out. Prior to becoming an Ambulance Officer Phil worked in the NAB in Cootamundra.
In his 43 years with the Ambulance service he has seen massive changes. "What we are doing now as Paramedics, Doctors were not doing in the 1980's" Phil recounted that in his early days he was not allowed to take blood pressures and a Doctor who saw him with a stethoscope told him he would have him fired. Luckily he was not successful.
Phil has done every course available and is now highly qualified. Every ambulance in Wagga is fitted with a defibrillator as they are in the rest of the State. One of the greatest innovations is the electric hydraulic stretcher. Because people are getting bigger and some morbidly obese, officers are unable to manage them as they once could. The automation of stretchers has meant less back injuries and more dignified and comfortable treatment for patients.
A normal day for Phil brings any number of challenges. From speeding to a cardiac arrest situation to transferring patients from outlying towns to Wagga Base. Phil said that in emergencies he an drive at 170 ks on Lake Road, go the wrong way through a roundabout and park anywhere in his ambulance. Wagga has around 70 to 80 out of hospital cardiac arrests per year. Not everyone can be saved. He said victims get no warning and they need a defibrillator to give them a chance of restarting their heart. Phil paid credit to the club for our efforts in getting a large number of defibrillators made available throughout our city. The job entails a lot of driving and often he is so busy he doesn't get time to eat.
Phil gave us an insight into the seamier side of Wagga when he told us that there are things he sees and hears about that would horrify the average citizen. Mental health is a real issue and especially the use of ICE. ICE addicts are very dangerous people in Phil's experience. They can present pleasantly one minute and then suddenly become aggressive. If and ICE addict has to be sedated it can take up to four or five police to hold the person down while a sedative is injected through their jeans. They will then continue to struggle violently and scream for up to six minutes. "It would shock you if you knew who is using ICE".
Where there are drugs or domestic violence, paramedics do not go in without police support. Paramedics can sedate against a person's will under the mental health act. Phil was involved in four such cases in one shift on the weekend.
Assaults by drug effected individuals on paramedics are common and it is a growing problem. Two officers were assaulted her in Wagga last weekend.
Phil gave us a couple of pieces of advice: if you are approached by a person who is agitated and demanding your wallet tell them that you don't have one; and his other piece of advice; do not climb on ladders if you are over 60.
President Paul thanked Phil for his insights and members warmly applauded a well loved Wagga Icon Phil Hoey.
President Paul opened the meeting with Rotary Grace and welcomed a number of guests including Phil Hoey (Guest Speaker), Margaret Priest, Ward Gaiter, Tania Tellus D.O.N. The Forrest Centre, and Bianca Lubke our outward bound exchange student. Paul also welcomed back to the club Richard Baguley and Mark Hillis who had been on the sick list and John Gray back from a trip.
Paul again reminded us about:
Changeover dinner on Tues 26th June. Please send in your acceptance or otherwise along with your dinner payment.
Treeplanting postponed until 15th July.
Lillier Lodge dinner on 11th July.
Paul also reported that the budget for 2018/19 had been approved by the Board and would be presented to members later in the meeting.
NEW MEMBER
Ward Gaiter was inducted into our club by President Paul and assisted by his sponsor David Benn.
Our newest member is a hotelier and the proprietor of The Duke Of Kent Hotel. He and his wife Danielle came to Wagga 12 months ago. He was invited to Rotary by David and had misgivings until he realised that half the members were seen frequenting his bar. He knew then he'd be right at home. Members welcomed David with applause. He will be joining the Projects committee and holding the classification of hotelier.
SERGEANT'S SESSION
Peter Clucas was today's Sergeant and fined Mark Hillis who he was pleased to see had regained his sense of humour and lost some weight. He then went on to fine all those who use face book and those who don't, achieving his aim of fining the club. He gave us some new facebook acronyms which he though would be peculiar to our membership. Here are some examples: BFF (best friend's funeral), BTW (bring the wheel chair) CGU (can't get up), DTAF (don't trust a fart), LOL (living on Lipitor), OMG (ouch my groin), TLC (totally lost continence), TTYL (talk to you louder), WTF (wet the floor).
FORREST CENTRE CHEQUE PRESENTATION
President Paul presents a cheque for forty thousand dollars to Tania Tellus D.O.N. of the Forrest Centre. The money will be used to purchase equipment for the new Palliative Care Hospice. Tania thanked members for the generous donation and said it would assist greatly in providing patients with quality end of life care. The money was raised through our annual Food and Wine Festival at which staff from the Forrest Centre assisted. All agreed that the money has gone to a very worthwhile project.
BUDGET 2018/19
The budget was presented by Adrian Whiting who had submitted it to the Board which had given its approval.
After a brief discussion a motion to pass the Budget was moved by James Hamilton and seconded by David Benn. All voted on the voices there were no objections.
Here is a brief summary of the budget:
Food and Wine
Income $135,000
Expense $82,000
Net $53,000
Gears and Beers
Income $278,000
Expense $116,000
Net $162,000
Community Accoount
Income $203,000
Expense $203,00 (Projects $105,000)
Net Balanced.
Club Account
Income $28,805
Expense $28,597
Net $208
Club fees will remain as last year i.e. $450 plus $50 for Foundation. For those who pay to be centurions i.e. give $100 to Foundation the fee will be $550 for the year. The $50 or $100 donation to Foundation is tax deductible for those who still pay tax.
VISITORS
Our outbound exchange student Bianca Lubke, was a visitor today. She is pictured with Youth Director Darren Wallace and Mark Hillis.
Margaret Priest was also a visitor and members sang Happy Birthday to her, led by her husband Rick. (Were there any repercussions Rick?)
APOLOGIES
Laurie Blowes, Craig Bromley, Jeremy Riethmuller, Tim Barter, Doug Conkey, Greg Conkey, Ken Cook, Pat Ingram, John Mason, James McNaughton, Graeme Obst, Malcolm Robertson, Jonty Shuter, Ken Taylor, David Wishart, Steve McCoy.
MAKEUPS
David Byfield, Richard Rossiter, David Benn, Paul Milde, James Hamilton, Adrian Whiting, Geoff Breust, Bob Willis, David Pyke, Wal Paton, Rob Nicholson, Peter Crozier, Ward Gaiter, Stuart Herriot, Tim Hutchings, Paul Murray, Michael Knight, Tim Barter, Peter Green.
Our Guest Speaker Peter Crozier with Di Hutchings, wife Gail and Tim Hutchings.
Being one of our own Peter or Croz needed no introduction and he launched straight into his talk on Antarctica.
M S Expedition 130 passengers and 59 crew
Antarctica is about twice the size of the United States. It has an average depth of ice covering of 1500metres. On leaving, there was a severe depression with 100 + gale force winds so we spent the night anchored in the Beagle Channel before exposing the ship to the two day trip across the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula
-only 50people allowed on the 1st stop being the South Shetland Islands on the Antarctic Peninsula
13 Zodiacs carrying 10 persons and 8 Kayaks
Two trips a day onto the Peninsula and the mainland of Antarctica.None of the cruise ships go into the Antarctic Circle.
Before you go onto the Antarctic land, you must disinfect your boots which are issued by the crew. Each time that you return to the ship, you must scrub your boots and wash them in disinfectant and have them checked by the crew for cleanliness.
On our first landing, we were welcomed by a lone Adelie penguin. But there were a few more.
Besides the Adelie penguins, there are Macaroni penguins (yellow tufts), gentoo and the chin strap penguins. There are no Emperor or King penguins on the Peninsula as they are on the mainland nearer the Ross Ice shelf or on South Georgia islands
The water settled down as we passed between islands and alongside icebergs which have fabulous blue colours. The strips are caused by oxygen trapped in the berg.
This just gives you an idea of a small berg. The iceberg that broke off the Weddel Sea on the east side of the Peninsula about seven years ago was 200 kms long.
There is one active volcano on the Antarctic mainland (mount Erebus) and we got the chance to walk up to the top of the cinder cone of the active volcano at Deception island entering through Neptune’s Bellows into the caldera.
Everyone was given the chance of diving into the 1 degree water. I must have been underwater when this shot was taken!
There are many stations on the Peninsula occupied by Russia, Chile, Germany, India and Argentina.Although there are certain areas of the Antarctic claimed byseven countries, there are about 30countries who have signed the Antarctic Treaty. There are 45 year round stations . the Treaty states that Antarctica is dedicatedto peace and research only. There are no national borders and any country can utilise any part of Antarctica they wish.All up, the population in summertime is about 4000 and there are about 20 airstrips. The station that we went to is Brown Station built by Argentina ( and the inhabitants of the penguin colony). Note the white lines of guano from the penguins so don’t stand behind them.
You will notice the quite extensive rocky areas around the coast line due in part to the ice melt currently occurring. In winter, the size of Antarctica and surrounding sea ice doubles from that in summer. There are lichens and mosses that exist on the rock in some parts.
Yes, there are seals particularly leopard seals and crab eater that love dining on the baby penguins when they take their first plunge into the ocean.. the sea was quite serene and calm most of the time giving ideal periods of reflection.
The penguins are very friendly as is one of the staff.
The scenery is spectacular and there are many birds to add into the photos
This is to show you that it was not all that cold with the passengers partaking in a BBQ on the stern
This shot of the seal was too good to miss and I have to acknowledge the photographer on board for this.
There was cloud cover on most days which allowed for even light making photography a joy. There were a number of glaciers delivering their end load directly into the sea creating numerous crevasses as it flowed down the land.
Oh! Many whales that Gail enthused over. Just fantastic. Passengers were given the opportunity to photograph and record the area under the tail fin which is unique to each whale. This is then sent to a website to assist with recording of type and travel movements of these animals around the world. Do you know how large krill are? About six cms and like a prawn. Phytoplankton.
We come to the end with a few of the birds captured in flight being albatross and shags of many types.I just had to put this one in, dressing up for a black and white theme night with my interpretation of a penguin. There were excellent lectures on the Antarctic Convergence, explanation of the many birds, seals, whales and penguins.Interpretation of what was seen each day andhistory lectures about the early explorers of Antarctica both before and after dinner were provided by the leader of the expedition and the many, very knowledgeable, mainly Canadian, on shore crew and Zodiac drivers.
Almost the end of the excursion passing Cape Horn.
Hope this stimulates you to consider visiting the cleanest, driest, windiest part of the world, a place of sheer beauty mainly portrayed in black and white, a superb area of the world for research both within the water and for astronomy clarity.May I suggest that you go by ship only as you may not see anything if you fly
President Paul thanked Croz on behalf of the club. Obviously members enjoyed Peter's talk as evidenced by the warm applause.
We opened our meeting by observing a minutes silence for reflection on the death of Hilda Bragg. She was the widow of charter member and Past President Ron Bragg.
Guests were introduced, with a good roll up of different faces.
Paul reported that we had 12 representatives at the District Conference, and we don't know why he was on the defensive, but he claimed that "what happens at conference stays at conference", but Paul was there with Margo - not much scope for playing up!!!!
District awards to Paul Murray and Doug Sutton were announced to the members, and recognised with enthusiastic applause. A presentation on Gears and Beers put together by Paul Murray was provided to the conference, and well received. The Conference next year will be in Griffith, in the year of DGE John Glassford.
The trip away to Jindabyne is getting closer, Mark Hillis and Rob Nicholson need commitment and final numbers.
Our tree planting exercise is now on Sunday June 24, but the venue has changed. New will now plant 1100 trees at the travelling stock reserve at Wallacetown, and after some rain, the ground will be softer and survival of our plantings more likely.
There is positive news on participation in Youth Exchange for 2018/19. We have four host families and await information on the student that we will host. The host families is only the first step - Rotary members that get involved by arranging activities like trips to cities, cultural or sporting activities and holidays spread the load. Congratulations to Darren Wallace for getting the project over the line.
Rick Priest wore the Rotary Information hat, and developed the theme along Rotary Experiences. He related his stories, then threw the tag line to John Gray - a great anecdote about former member Bill Zacharia getting a make up in Athens. Tim Barter had more to add, before Rick warned about makeups at Oxford UK.
Peter Clucas, as Sergeant was on early. He inspected dress standards of John Gray, and found them wanting. Those with Ties paid, and Richard Rossiter was fined for having removed his for the occasion. Doug Conkey came to the Sergeants notice - very slow to balance the Food & Wine Festival books. Richmond supporters paid, especially David Hodge.
Peter is travelling soon, needed travel insurance, and took out a policy that he had only recently become qualified - with Australian Seniors Insurance.
There was a cryptic reference to "how many bottles of wine between Milde and Mozart?" no further reference followed, so we await eagerly for a punchline.
Paul told us that there was an announcement pending about "dinners at Lillier Lodge". If we're cooking, I want to do some curries.
President Paul opened the Anzac Day meeting with a minutes silence, a toast to
the queen and welcome to our guests and returning travellers.
Congratulations to Our President elect for 2019-20 will be David Pyke.
Next weeks meeting is a vocational visit to ERIN EARTH Kildare ave 12.30pm.
Rotary Information - John Hawkins.
John gave us an insight into how volunteers for the Shelter Box program are
chosen. A rigorous 12 month program of training is used to select 20 people
from 350 applicants to assist with the program. Training is intense and covers
operations in the field, media work and liasing with authorities. Shelter Box needs
163 volunteers per year of which 20% are Rotarians.
President Paul Congratulates Claire Lawler on her entering the Miss Wagga Quest.
Claire reminded us that the Rotoract meeting is held on 7th May at CSU and members are welcome to attend and support the new club.
Seargants Session - John Gray
John stood in for Mark Hillis who stood in for Peter Clucas.
BBQ cleaners were fined, along with John Hawkins for scaring everybody away from
volunteering for Shelter Box programs!
Tim MacGillicuddy needs a big hole for recycling stuff China no longer wants!
Congo Global Grant - Doug Sutton
Doug gave us an update on the amazing progress achieved with a Rotary International grant that was supported by our club and partnering Rotary club
in Elvira District DRC.
The funds were used to create and stock a pig raising and fish farming enterprise
that was run by a local group of widows and dependents. The project provided a
stable food supply and a source of income for community.
The ANZAC on the Wall - David Benn
The Anzac on the Wall
I wandered thru a country town 'cos I had time to spare, And went into an antique shop to see what was in there. Old Bikes and pumps and kero lamps, but hidden by it all, A photo of a soldier boy - an ANZAC on the Wall.
"The Anzac have a name?" I asked. The old man answered "No,. The ones who could have told me mate, have passed on long ago. The old man kept on talking and, according to his tale, The photo was unwanted junk bought from a clearance sale.
"I asked around," the old man said, "but no one knows his face, He's been on that wall twenty years, deserves a better place. For some one must have loved him so, it seems a shame somehow." I nodded in agreement and then said, "I'll take him now."
My nameless digger's photo, well it was a sorry sight A cracked glass pane and a broken frame - I had to make it right To prise the photo from its frame I took care just in case, "Cause only sticky paper held the cardboard back in place.
I peeled away the faded screed and much to my surprise, Two letters and a telegram appeared before my eyes The first reveals my Anzac's name, and regiment of course John Mathew Francis Stuart - of Australia's own Light Horse.
This letter written from the front, my interest now was keen This note was dated August seventh 1917 "Dear Mum, I'm at Khalasa Springs not far from the Red Sea They say it's in the Bible - looks like Billabong to me.
"My Kathy wrote I'm in her prayers she's still my bride to be I just cant wait to see you both you're all the world to me And Mum you'll soon meet Bluey, last month they shipped him out I told him to call on you when he's up and about."
"That bluey is a larrikin, and we all thought it funny He lobbed a Turkish hand grenade into the Co's dunny. I told you how he dragged me wounded in from no man's land He stopped the bleeding closed the wound with only his bare hand."
"Then he copped it at the front from some stray shrapnel blast It was my turn to drag him in and I thought he wouldn't last He woke up in hospital, and nearly lost his mind
Cause out there on the battlefield he'd left one leg behind."
"He's been in a bad way mum, he knows he'll ride no more Like me he loves a horse's back he was a champ before. So Please Mum can you take him in, he's been like my brother Raised in a Queensland orphanage he' s never known a mother."
But Struth, I miss Australia mum, and in my mind each day I am a mountain cattleman on high plains far away I'm mustering white-faced cattle, with no camel's hump in sight And I waltz my Matilda by a campfire every night
I wonder who rides Billy, I heard the pub burnt down I'll always love you and please say hooroo to all in town". The second letter I could see was in a lady's hand An answer to her soldier son there in a foreign land
Her copperplate was perfect, the pages neat and clean It bore the date November 3rd 1917. "T'was hard enough to lose your Dad, without you at the war I'd hoped you would be home by now - each day I miss you more"
"Your Kathy calls around a lot since you have been away To share with me her hopes and dreams about your wedding day And Bluey has arrived - and what a godsend he has been We talked and laughed for days about the things you've done and seen"
"He really is a comfort, and works hard around the farm, I read the same hope in his eyes that you wont come to harm. Mc Connell's kids rode Billy, but suddenly that changed We had a violent lightning storm, and it was really strange." "Last Wednesday just on midnight, not a single cloud in sight It raged for several minutes, it gave us all a fright It really spooked your Billy - and he screamed and bucked and reared And then he rushed the sliprail fence, which by a foot he cleared"
"They brought him back next afternoon, but something's changed I fear It's like the day you brought him home, for no one can get near Remember when you caught him with his black and flowing mane? Now Horse breakers fear the beast that only you can tame," "That's why we need you home son" - then the flow of ink went dry- This letter was unfinished, and I couldn't work out why. Until I started reading the letter number three A yellow telegram delivered news of tragedy Her son killed in action - oh - what pain that must have been The Same date as her letter - 3rd November 17 This letter which was never sent, became then one of three She sealed behind the photo's face - the face she longed to see.
And John's home town's old timers -children when he went to war Would say no greater cattleman had left the town before. They knew his widowed mother well - and with respect did tell How when she lost her only boy she lost her mind as well. She could not face the awful truth, to strangers she would speak "My Johnny's at the war you know , he's coming home next week." They all remembered Bluey he stayed on to the end A younger man with wooden leg became her closest friend
And he would go and find her when she wandered old and weak And always softly say "yes dear - John will be home next week." Then when she died Bluey moved on, to Queensland some did say I tried to find out where he went, but dont know to this day And Kathy never wed - a lonely spinster some found odd She wouldn't set foot in a church - she'd turned her back on God John's mother left no will I learned on my detective trail This explains my photo's journey, that clearance sale So I continued digging cause I wanted to know more I found John's name with thousands in the records of the war His last ride proved his courage - a ride you will acclaim The Light Horse Charge at Beersheba of everlasting fame
That last day in October back in 1917 At 4pm our brave boys fell - that sad fact I did glean That's when John's life was sacrificed, the record's crystal clear But 4pm in Beersheba is midnight over here....... So as John's gallant sprit rose to cross the great divide Were lightning bolts back home a signal from the other side? Is that why Billy bolted and went racing as in pain? Because he'd never feel his master on his back again? Was it coincidental? same time - same day - same date?
Some proof of numerology, or just a quirk of fate? I think it's more than that, you know, as I've heard wiser men, Acknowledge there are many things that go beyond our ken
Where craggy peaks guard secrets neath dark skies torn asunder Where hoofbeats are companions to the rolling waves of thunder Where lightning cracks like 303's and ricochets again Where howling moaning gusts of wind sound just like dying men Some Mountain cattlemen have sworn on lonely alpine track They've glimpsed a huge black stallion - Light Horseman on his back.
Yes Sceptics say, it's swirling clouds just forming apparitions Oh no, my friend you cant dismiss all this as superstition The desert of Beersheba - or windswept Aussie range John Stuart rides forever there - Now I dont find that strange. Now some gaze at this photo, and they often question me And I tell them a small white lie, and say he's family. "You must be proud of him." they say - I tell them, one and all, That's why he takes the pride of place - my ANZAC on the Wall.
President Paul opened the meeting, we sang Grace and Toasted the Queen. There were originally two presentations on the agenda for today, but as Phil Macintosh was away in Sydney with work commitments, we had more time to deal with the wrap up of Food and Wine Festival business.
Some meetings, we don't attract a single visitor, but today we were overrun.
Stanley Palmer came along with Neil McMullen (South Wagga Rotary). Stanley is a member of the Rotary club of Two Rivers, in Wisconsin, which is part of Paul Murray's old stamping ground. Greetings flowed across the room.
Craig Bromley had his dad along as a guest. Scott Carson runs Riverina Ice, and attended todays meeting, perhaps as a prospective member.
Des Damme, who attended with wife, Sally, had constructed and deconstructed the fence at Food and Wine Festival. He was involved in todays program, as were Michael Stanley and Catherine McDonald. A seperate story on this!
But as a complete surprise to most members, and especially the president, our exchange student Franzi Treber from Germany walked in with Col Duff.
All we needed to really make the meeting really special was a District Governor, when, in a flash of Green, in walked George Weston, followed soon after by the mayor. What a team.
We didn't have a sergeant at today's meeting. You could say that their efforts Petered out, after both a Crozier and a Clucas declined to play a role. One ceremonial aspect of the sergeant session was observed. The plate was carried around among the congregation by a priest.
The latest report on Michael Georgiou is that he is in Melbourne for tests, and in his own words, he is "getting along". Michael is a fighter, a tough man and has the support of a great club. We must make sure that he knows it.
A very tired President Paul opened the meeting with Rotary Grace and welcomed our visitor Stuart Heriot
He also welcomed back more travellers especially Peter Crozier, who landed in Wagga just three hours before his shift at the Food and Wine.
Paul also highlighted the New Members Night to be held at Q Bar (Beer Deluxe) on the night of April 18.
David Byfield presented projects totalling $7500.
!st Wagga Kooringal Scouts were granted $500, Shine for Kids (children of incarcerated parents) also got $500, and the club approved $1500 for Days for Girls, $3000 to the Shelterbox appeal for New Guinea, and $2000 to Rotary Oceania Medical Aid to Children.
Jindabyne Trip
Rob Nicholson put the following together. Should be a top weekend!
3rd weekend in May (Arrive Friday 18th Sat 19th Sunday 20th leave Monday 21st or Tuesday)
Montana Ski lodge is booke.
Mark Hillis is on board.
Montana can accommodate 8 couples. 5 in king beds and 3 in bunk rooms (we could add younger kids if parents want to bring them along).
I think, Mark, accommodates 6 to 8 couples ??
Cost for accommodation three nights and cleaning is $125.00 for non-members.
Meals are home cooked by in house chefs BBQ Bob and Cinders Hamilton or the Wild Brumby Bar?
Food to be planned $25.00 to $35.00 per head per day. estimate
May will be chilly. There are plenty of activities, walking Mount Kosciuszko
peak, bike riding peddle and motor, fishing, relaxing.
On the terrace Canapé Hillis Hilton
Schnapps Appreciation courses 4pm daily.
All suggestions welcome
NATIONAL YOUTH BUSKING CHALLENGE
This is a great initiative by David Pyke designed to highlight our young talent and to bring added interest to the Riverina BMW Food and Wine Festival. It was very well supported and added a great deal of colour and involvement from the wider community.
The outside broadcast from 2AAA was very well received, as was the support of Dale Alison of Alison Music.
The winners of each section, judged by Judy Ferguson, were invited to perform to the Festival. 32 registered, and we are looking to make this even bigger next time.
Food and Wine. Laurie and Paul both thanked the club and all the people who helped for a great effort.
Laurie felt as if there were rolls of barbed wire somewhere on his anatomy, but he was also kissed in the same place by a fairy as it didn't rain at all on the important parts of the Festival!! Friends in highest places!Among a long list of thankyous Laurie singled out Des Damm who erected the fence. The club pays $3000 for this to Des who in turn donates it back to a charity. This year it is going to "Football for All" a charity that encourages children with disabilities to play soccer. The club hopes to have Des along for a cheque presentation shortly.
It was a top effort and the involvement of all the members was greatly appreciated. The lead musical act was from Darren Coggan. He had a great time and hopes to be back to help us out at any time he can.
SERGEANT'S SESSION
John Gray, a sergeant of much experience, regaled David Foster for even daring to mention the cricket, John Smith for being too forward with some female customers at the beer tent, cutting out Peter Green who also gave the quote of the week "We should have grandkids first!!". Laurie Blowes was granted four weeks exemption from fines, not so generous when you consider he and Del are on holidays and Wal Paton broke the barbecue, explaining it was Helen not him. James Ross was not wearing his pink shirt, but was sporting sideburns from the 60s,and it appears that David Pyke's grandchildren won three busking awards. Then of course Nick Leywood was accused of two timing, but it turned out to be his daughter, and Paul Murray has risen to new heights working for Facebook!!
MAKEUPS AND APOLOGIES
Makeups:
Peter Green, Wal Paton, Ken Cook, Bob Willis, Bill McNaughton, Richard Rositer, David Pyke, Nick Leywood, James Hamilton, James Ross.
Apologies:
David Benn, Craig Bromley, Graham Burmeister, Greg Breust, Greg Conkey, Peter Crozier, John Ferguson, Jerry Gerlach, David Hodge, John Mason, Tim McMullen, Robert Pearson, Jeremy Reithmuller, Jonty Shuter, Steve McCoy, Tim Barter, Andrew Puckeridge, Daniel Burns, John Hawkins.
Next Sprout & About Market Roster: for 09th December. (reminder it your resonsibility to find a replacement if any of your rostered duties can not be fulfilled)
OIC - Craig Bromley - Confirmed
The follow have confirmed - Doug Conkey, Peter Crozier, Travis Downie, Michael Georgiou, Peter MacKinnon, John Mason.
Paul Milde - replaced by Rob Pearson, John Egan - replaced by Doug Sutton, John Flynn - replaced by Peter Green.
Jim Gibson - replaced by Steve McCoy and John Hawkins - replaced by Jonty Schuter
Trailer Duties = Travis Downie, Peter McKinnon and Doug Sutton.
Next Food and Wine meeting - Last meeting for 2017 is today 06th Dec and following the Christmas break will be held weekly from 17th January to 21st March 2018.
Christmas Party at Murray's is Sunday 10th December from 4pm. If you have not given your RSVP to Peter Clucas please do so asap.
Last meeting for this year 2017 will be our Christmas Lunch and Ladies Day on 19th December. There will be two week break and our first meeting back in 2018 will be 09th January.
Thank you to those members registering your make-ups.
There are five other Clubs in WW plus an e-Club. You can register a makeup with James or the Secretary after attending committee meetings or some other activity when representing Wollundry.
President Paul Milde opened the meeting with Rotary Grace and welcomed
our guest speaker Neil Druce from the Junee liquorice Factory and Corowa Distillery.
Food and Wine Update
Laurie Blowes
Program is progressing smoothly.
Darren Coggan has been booked as the major act for the day.
Other entertainment is organised.
David Pyke
Organising new event for this year - "National Youth Busking Challenge" for under 18yrs.
Looking to form a small committee of 3 members to run the event which will be held in the main
street on the Saturday of the festival.
New Member Induction
A warm welcome to our newest member Tim Hutchins who was introduced by Mal Robertson.
Sprout and About Market
Craig Bromley
A successful market was held on Saturday with 33 stallholders participating and a total of $2544
banked for the day.
The new DeFiB unit will be now in the trailer for the market and present at each market.
Rotary Information
Greg Conkey
Greg reminded us of the good work of the ShelterBox partnership with Rotary International, with
aid given to over One Million people.
Sergeant Micheal Giorgiou
Another stunning session, with much fundraising to stop Micheal telling another story!
Guest Speaker Neil Druce Corowa Whiskey Distillery
Neil is well known to the club as the creator of the Junee Liquorice Factory, and is great supporter of
the Sprout and About Markets. He gave a very interesting talk on his latest venture, Distilling
whisky at the Corowa Whiskey Distillery.
Neil was approached to take on the old Mill Facilities at Corowa from the local council
and set about creating a major tourist attraction and now a world recognized whiskey distillery
in Corowa.
After a major renovation of the building they now have a function centre, coffee shop and
distillery all up and running.
Neil gave a fascinating history of his introduction to the distilling process, with trips to
Tasmania and Scotland to learn from the worlds best producers. Most of the flavour or character of the whiskey is created from the barrel it is stored in, and great is given to the wood type
and history of the barrels. After five years of storage the whiskey is decanted to the Finishing barrels
for further aging.
The flavour is also determined by the distilling process - the art of whiskey making.
The whiskey business is competitive , but the Corowa Whiskey Distillery is already being recognised
as one of the ten best new distillerys on the world scene!
President Paul welcomed members, guest Graham Obst and guest Speaker Geoff Simpson.
Paul has represented the club at White Ribbon Day, and reminded members the Christmas Party
is on 10th of December.
John Gray with guest Graham Obst
Rick Priest presents John Gray with a modified cricket bail from the Mens Shed!
(not sure what its for....Fly Swatter?)
Phil Macintosh
Phil gave a financial Summary for the Gears and Beers which showed a great result
of over $111,000 surplus plus donations to other service clubs helping on the day of $12,000.
Phil gave a plan for next year forecasting over 2500 riders. He emphasised a greater focus on the
Craft Beer and Cider festival and the need to organise extra accommodation across the city for the
weekend, including camping. Phil asked for feedback and ideas for improving next years event.
Rotary Information - John Hawkins
John reminded us of the great partnership between Rotary and ShelterBox. in 2017 there were
9000 shelter kits and 4000 shelter boxes distributed to help 29000 families.
Sergeant - John Gray
Recounted a wonderful trip to Vietnam for Max Burmeisters wedding, and the members suffered
through a fine session featuring a unique version of "fifty shades of Gray".
Guest Speaker - Geoff Simpson
President Paul introduced Geoff Simpson - the Chief Scientist for Environment, Heritage and Culture.
Geoff gave us a passionate talk on the culture of Aboriginal Australia and how we can apply
the ideas that are thousands of years old to today.
Geoff gave an overview of a system of sustainability for caring for our country that has lasted
for over 40,000 years. It focuses on looking after species and creating a feeling of belonging to the
land.
Geoff explained that aboriginal people are born into a Totem Species and your job is
to ensure that species has food and its environment is protected.
Each species has its own language, story, song and dance and the core value is Belonging to the country. The culture has elements of planning, clear roles, accountability and celebration.
Geoff finished with a call to action - to foster a feeling of belonging, and to experience and
create a connection to the landscape by simple things such as bushwalking. It is up to us to
ensure a healthy sustainable landscape is handed on to the next generation.
Clive Murphy seen above with President Paul was today's guest speaker.
Clive was introduced by Richard Rossiter who told us that Clive is the principal of the Clive Murphy Self Empowerment Centre located in Baylis st Wagga. He is married to Julie and has three children. Clive is the author of two books on self development.
The development of Clive's belief and teachings began with his own personal journey of broken relationships and dissatisfaction with his progress in life. At the age of 33 Clive told us that he ended up in Hospital after a high speed accident and he realised that he had reached rock bottom. He decided that he could not continue with the way he had been living and began to read about the power of the mind to change things.
He came to realise that the mind is so powerful it "can do us in" as well as lift us up if we use it in the opposite way.
Clive pointed out that Australia has a high rate of suicide. 89 in every 1000 Australians take anti-depressants, compared to 12 in USA and 2 in Korea. By making the right choices Clive believes we can address these issues. To get happy chemicals you need to think happy thoughts. He feels that generally people have low self esteem and so are not resilient if they face criticism. Clive theorises that we take negativity with us when we try to move away from it though escapism rather than address the issues in our life.
By focusing on having a destination i.e. a purpose, by focusing on peaceful relationships, on quality of life Clive believes we can move away from our negative and destructive thinking.
Clive answered questions on suicide, parenting and the influence of materialism and technology.
President Paul thanked Clive for coming to speak to our club and asked members to show their appreciation with applause.
Andrew Puckeridge is the newest member of our Club. He was introduced to the Club by Mark Hillis and inducted by President Paul. Mark has the classification of Restaurant- fast food and has been appointed to the Gears and Beers Committee. It appears he is fond of green apples!
Wendy was introduced to the Club by Rotarian Bob Willis who told us that Wendy is a lecturer in Adult and Vocational Education at CSU. She is also a former Rotarian being the Charter President of the Murrumbidgee Club.
Wendy was an Education Officer in the regular Army for 15 years and serves in the Army Reserve as the Regional Manager of the Defence Services Support Council - a body that offers support to employers of the Defence Reservists.
In her role at CSU, Wendy has led two trips to Nepal and is currently preparing for her third Professional Student Placement trip which will leave in November.
Wendy, who is extremely passionate about Nepal started by talking about the Geography of the country which is set in the Himalayas. It is about the same distance North of the Equator as Brisbane is South of the Equator.
Nepal has three distinct Geographic regions: Plains; Elevated flatlands and hills; The Mountain Region. The Himalayas, the highest Mountain range in the world can be seen from all over Nepal. In one picture that Wendy showed, the Himalayas and Everest could be seen from 500 kilometres distant!
The Nepalaese are a very proud of the fact that they have never been colonised.
The Regional Town that Wendy visits is Sindhuli which is about 140 kilometres from Kathmandu the capital. The journey by car takes 6 hours. The "main" road traverses very rugged country and the side roads to the various villages along the way are mainly for foot traffic and comprise many suspension bridges over the deep gorges.
Nepal has a population slightly greater than Australia with about 28 million people located in area about the size of Victoria.
There are sights of the Himalayas from every high point in the country.
Sindhuli is a commercial hub equivalent to Wagga. The community has some issues around educating their children and providing health care. A RAWCS project initiated through a local men's group, built a community college for technical training. Rotarian Bruce Duffy from Wagga has been heavily involved.
The college has 120 students of whom 35 are young women. Work Place Health and Safety and First Aid are important topics in the curriculum.
Wendy said she has never felt so embraced by a community of strangers as when she is in Nepal. Nepalese children are most treasured and family life is paramount although sadly, as in our community, domestic violence is an issue.
Wendy has seen what Rotary in action can do on the other side of the world and is proud of what can be achieved. Her wisdom advice is to embrace a community in a holistic manner. There is another RAWCS team proposed for Sindhuli in March and Wendy would welcome anyone who can swing a hammer.
President Paul thanked Wendy on behalf of members who showed their appreciation by warm applause.
Our current President Paul Milde announced that our new President from Changeover June 2018 will be James Hamilton.
The news was received enthusiastically by members. James brings a wealth of Rotary experience to the job having served as Treasurer, Secretary and Public Relations Officer on a number of occasions. He is also regarded as somewhat of a guru on our constitution. There is no doubt he will run a tight ship and lead the Club with great skill. He will be ably supported by Gina. Congratulations James from all of us in Wollundry
Hat Day October 10th at Wollundry Rotary in Wagga Wagga. Over $200 was donated by members with the club matching it totaling just under $500 going to Australian Rotary Health
Click on the video below to view Millenary Mayhem.
Tuesday evening the gray haired members of the club and their partners gathered for the Annual Over 20's Dinner. The black tie evening at the Riverine Club celebrated members with over 20 years service to Wollundry and the community. To see a photo album of the evening...click on the picture.
Click on the Video below for a short Gears & Beers movie
The 2017 Gears and Beers can certainly be referred to as a triumph for Phil and Tim and the committee and the club.
Phil gave members a overview of the financial results and a heartfelt thank you to all the members for their dedication to the event. He mentioned a few members by name.
1) Frank Fuller - he must have driven 1000km in the last 2 weeks picking up sponsor banners, and organising and packing nearly 1700 rider bags - unloading pallets of water and so much more.
2) Paul Murray - for the computerised rider bag pickup process programming - for his sleepless nights just brilliant.
3) Tim McGillicuddy - for his calm organisation of the festival and getting all that gear to turn up on queue.
4) Dave Foster - nothing was a hassle - he was responsible for making the festival look as good as it did with signage that was first class. You don't see what he does in the background to make the signage workout on the roads. It's this stuff that makes everyone feel so safe.
5) David Byfield - organising and rostering 225 positions on the event was masterful.
Phil also recognised President Paul Milde, Geoff Breust and Jim Gibson for their hard work.
Phil noted that a lot of people in the Wagga Wagga community will be a lot better off because of the funds you all assisted in raising.
Dr. Luc Mulimbalimba Masururu, Mayor Greg Concey, Dr Luc's wife Delize, Jenny Conkey and Doug Sutton at a Morning Tea held by the Mayor in honour of Dr Luc visit to Wagga Wagga.
Doug Sutton introduced our Guest Speaker. He has been involved heavily in the project since being requested to drive it by Marilyn Roberts, partner of PDG Gary Roberts around two years ago.
This project was supported by all six of the Wagga Wagga Rotary Clubs, with a total commitment of US$4000. Further support was provided by District 9700, and the Rotary Foundation, with the final result of US$35000 being sent to The Mission in Health Care and Development.
Dr. Luc Mulimbalimba Masururu, thats his full name, is travelling with his wife Delize. He has five children back in The Democratic Republic of the Congo.
We heard from Luc about the colonial history of his country, and its neighbour, Republic of the Congo - room for confusion. Luc is a member of parliament, and tells of an attempted assassination, and not because he is a doctor.
Uvira is located on the Eastern border of the country, as far from Kinshasa as you can go. It is about a three hour flight, or if you choose to drive, should take about two months, as the roads tend to meander around lakes and rivers. Luc lives in Kinshasa, and has to travel to reach Bakavu and Uvira. The capital is urban, slick and western - the countryside by comparison is full of villages comprising groups of huts.
The DRC is rich in minerals, and this has caused a history of war in the country, most notably between 1994 and 2004, with over 5 million fatalities. This created much poverty, and set back development. There are no banks - livestock provide currency for trading, so a high priority for helping the villagers, especially the women into provide pigs, and instructions for animal husbandry.
We were told about fish farming, The Radio Station, Beading and Greeting Cards and Bicycles for women. There are so many avenues that are being exploited.
Luc spoke with conviction on the work that has been done, and what remains to be achieved.
President Paul opened the meeting with a minutes silence remembering Faith Butt and the victims in Spain.
Paul reported on the last board meeting.
Graham Burmeister gave a heartfelt eulogy remembering Faith Butt.
Phil Mcintosh gave a quick update on the Gears and Beers. He welcomed Wagga Motors as a major sponsor of the event. Phil was looking for help with some jobs in the week leading up to the event looking after sponsors and reminded us to like and share the posts on the facebook page.
Secretary David Benn advised next weeks meeting is a club assembly, and for members to raise any issues by email to the board by Friday this week. David asked for the non eaters list to be updated and for members to apologise in a timely manner to reduce the meal costs.
John Hawkins Rotary Information
John reported on the importance to Rotary of raising literacy standards across communities and the programs rotary is involved in.
Rotary members make amazing things happen, like:
Opening schools: In Afghanistan, Rotary members opened a girls’ school to break the cycle of poverty and social imbalance.
Teaching adults to read: Rotary members in the United States partnered with ProLiteracy Detroit to recruit and train tutors after a study showed that more than half of the local adult population was functionally illiterate.
New teaching methods: The SOUNS program in South Africa, Puerto Rico and the United States teaches educators how to improve literacy by teaching children to recognize letters by sounds instead of names.
Making schools healthy: Rotarians are providing clean, fresh water to every public school in Lebanon so students can be healthier and get a better education.
When you teach somebody how to read, they have that for a lifetime. It ripples through the community, one by one.
Mark Wilson Rotary Club member
Welcome new member Chris O'Sullivan
President Paul Milde, Sponsor Gerry Gerlach and new member Chris O'Sullivan
Paul and Gerry gave a warm welcome to our newest member Chris, who was looking forward to meeting all members and getting involved with the club and our projects.
Sergeant Peter Crozier
Peter extracted many dollars and increased the misery of flue sufferers, the Luftwagga, and James Ross for pulling down the Uranquinty rail bridge.
Guest Speaker - Mayor of Wagga Wagga Greg Conkey
Greg gave a quick update on council matters including;
Levee upgrade starting stage 1 in October 2017 which upgrades flowerdale and copland street levees and stage 2 connecting these two sections to be completed by December 2018.
The Equex Multi purpose stadium has been approved and the $9 million project is being tendered now. It will include 3 indoor netball courts and space for 3000 people.
The intermodal freight link at bomen is proceeding through planning stages. Roadworks for the approaches to bomen are currently being completed.Visy is looking to open stage two of their facilities at tumut and could be a big part of the freight link.
A Fast Rail Proposal is being advanced by a private group to build a new city at henty. WWCC favours a route that includes stops in albury and wagga. The federal government is funding the rail link from Melbourne to Brisbane for up to $10b - $8b on tunnels into Brisbane.
Tenders are being sought for the eunony bridge replacement.
Some land at Bomen has been rezoned into larger residential blocks but land closer to Teys Facilities has been reserved as a buffer zone.
The Harness Racing facilitiy has expanded to be major industry track with the project worth $11m.
No progress on the Northern Lake - no licence available for the water.
Lake Albert will be filled from improved flows from creeks to the east and a proposed weir at ohalloran park.
John Smith introduced Margorie Pagani, Chief Execitove Officer and Director of Angel Flight as Wollundry's guest speaker. Marjorie is a practising barrister and has assisted Angel Flight on a pro-bono basis since the inception of the charity in 2003. Marjorie took up the position of full-time CEO in eary 2015. She was also one of the first volunteer pilots with Angel Flight.
Marjorie went on to explain that Angel Flight, Australia is a charity which coordinates non-emergency flights to assist country people to access specalist medical treatment that would otherwise be unavailable to them because of vast distance and high travel costs. It consists of volunteer pilots (abd their planes) and drivers (and their own vehicles) to make travel and keeping appointments for medical treatments.
Angel Flights helps anyone who is medically and financially disadvantaged; families who have been financially devastated by medical bills due to illness, accidents or other chronic conditions. Angel Flight receives no government help.
In Wollundry, pilots Craig Bromley, John Smith, Andrew Irvine and Geoff Hamilton are active Angel Flight pilots.
Marjorie showed an excellent video about the pilots, drivers and passengers in Angel Flight. You can view the video by clicking on the screen below.
Geoff Breust, gave a summary of his annual report which is printed in full in the Changeover Program Booklet, which was presented beautifully by David Foster and his staff.
The highlights were:
Gears and Beers Festival achieving 1200 riders and $60,000 income.
Riverina BMW Food and Wine Festival described as the best yet netting $40,000 for cancer care and a further $40,000 for other projects.
Two special markets, Australia Day and Christmas.
Sprout and About monthly markets revitalized under the guidance of John Smith.
Exchange Student Willis Cheng and his development over the year with the assistance of his host families and members of the club.
Outgoing International Exchange Students Tayla Crevatin and Nellie Shepherd
The development of the new Rotaract Club with special mention of the work of Claire Lawlor
Defib. For Life A.E.D’s 15 units now purchased through good work of Travis Downie
Two major International Projects including Global Grant of US$35,000 for DRC and a District Grant for Cambodia.
International Federation of Cricketing Rotarians successful international carnival held in Wagga and organized by Jim Gibson, John Gray and David Benn.
Ongoing Fellowship including Christmas Party at Paul and Carolyn Murray’s and a Tenpin Bowling night, Golf competition and the Luftwagga.
A list of excellent guest speakers and vocational visits to Robe and the Plywood factory.
Club raised $160,000 and donated $148,000.
Three PHF’s awarded to Phil McIntosh, John and Judy Ferguson.
Geoff thanked all members for their efforts during the year but singled out Tim Barter (Food and Wine), Phil McIntosh (Gears and Beers) and Wal Paton and Mal Robertson (Food and sustenance) for special thanks.
Paul Milde PHF was inducted as our new President. In his speech Paul said he was blown away that he had received another Paul Harris award and was now President of such a great club. He thanked the Club members for placing their confidence in him and promised to continue he success of previous Presidents.
In congratulating Past President Geoff, Paul recognized the inspirational leadership skills that Geoff possessed that made him a successful CEO of several corporations. He also congratulated Geoff’s wife Roz for her support throughout the year.
“What you see is what you get” said Paul. “I’ll give you 110% and with your support we’ll have a great year.
Paul thanked his wife Margo, who regrettably could not attend due to family commitments. He pointed out the beautiful hand-made flowers on each table which Margo had crafted.
Paul has three main objectives as President. One to continue with existing projects, two to have fun and three to find a President Elect.
Background to this award was given by PP Graham Burmeister who reminded us of the great humanitarian work done by Rotary including assisting with building schools and hospitals in third world countries through F.A.I.M. and the donation of millions of dollars for charity and Polio eradication.
This type of altruism, Graham said, was at the heart of the work as a foster parent that Robyn has done since 1990. In the year she started fostering children, Robyn and her husband Rod had four children of their own. In the ensuing years 55 children have been fostered and assisted to make their way in life. This is an absolutely outstanding effort.
After being presented with the award of a badge, medal and certificate by President Geoff, Robyn thanked the club and said she was overwhelmed by the recognition. She said she enjoyed what she did and thanked her husband Rod for his assistance.
Robyn was given a standing round of applause by all present.
Paul Milde
A Saphire Pin was awarded to Paul who was already a recipient of a Paul Harris Fellow Award. A Sapphire Pin is the symbol given for second and subsequent Paul Harris Fellowship Awards.
Paul, our now new President, thoroughly deserved the award for his tireless work in secretarial roles in the Club including Food and Wine and Gears and Beers festivals.
Members enthusiastically applauded Paul for his achievement.
Rotarian Of The Year
Rotarian of the Year
A popular choice for this award, chosen by the President and Board was Malcolm Robertson who in his unassuming manner kept us all fed and watered and did other jobs when asked.
ATTENDANCE AWARDS
Once again these awards were given to those who achieved 100% attendance for the year. The member who is most recognized in this category is David Byfield who has not missed a meeting in 39 years of the club’s existence.
BULLETIN EDITORS
Paul Murray, John Egan, Michael Knight, Andrew Irvine, Peter MacKinnon and Doug Sutton were recognized for their work as editors of the Bulletin.
Our bulletin won the District Award for the best e-bulletin
OUTGOING BOARD
David Pyke (treasurer), Gerry Gerlach (secretary), Mark Hillis, Richard Rossiter, Rob Nicholson, Bob Willis, David Foster and Greg O’Hare were recognized and thanks for guiding the club in a great year.
This item for the evening was delivered by treasurer David Pyke who described Wollundry as an exceptional club but stressed the need for more fellowship now that we have ceased meeting for the Sunday Markets. The full list of donations is available on the web site but the main ones were;
Riverina Cancer Care$40,000
Defib for Life$33,590
The Forrest Centre$10,000
Abbeyfield House$ 8,000
Anglicare$ 6,000
Mark Hillis offered the observation that the sum total of the benefit to Wagga from our fund raising was far greater than the simple total dollars donated. Rather it was the flow on – income made by stall holders at our events, their wages and taxes paid, beds rented for riders etc.
A Toast to Rotary International was delivered by John Hawkins who gave a history of the Rotary Foundation from its inception in 1917 and the good works it has promoted in the past century. Works which include the eradication of Polio, aid to poorer countries, sustainable programs in places ravaged by earthquakes, war and famine. In short why we should be proud to belong to such a wonderful organization which does so much good for mankind.
PDG Gary Roberts responded to the toast on behalf of Rotary International, reinforcing the points made by John and adding
the work that Rotary Foundation has done through the efforts of members of District 9700. He referred to the Global Grant that has been awarded through our Club for assistance to widows and orphans in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Gary told us one of the initiators of the program in DRC, Dr Luc Mulambulimba Masururu, will be visiting our club, and other Wagga Clubs in September to tell us of the benefits of the grant for his people.
Wollundry Rotary Changeover Dinner 2017 was held on Tuesday evening last. It was a great night enjoyed by a large number of club members, partners and visitors.
Highlights of the evening included the awarding of a Paul Harris Fellowship, an acknowledgement of our Club’s community service donations of $148,561 and the passing of the Baton from PP Geoff Breust to our new President Paul Milde.
MC for the evening Darren Wallace called our meeting to order at 7pm and called Geoff Breust to the microphone to lead Rotary Grace and welcome our visitors who included PDG Gary & Marilyn Roberts, Rod & Robin Kendall. Wagga City Council, Brian & Sally Short. ADG Group 5, Faith Butt, Wife of PP Col Butt, George & Carol Weston DG 9700 2017-18, Andrew & Julia Roberts Apex Incoming President, Clare Lawlor Rotaract President, Joy McGregor, and Jarred & Lisa Milde.
The Loyal Toast was proposed by PP Frank Fuller
Apologies were received from:
Willis Cheng, Micahael McCormack MP, Darryl Maguire MP, Graham Hornibrook Charter President, Mayor Greg & Jenny Conkey, Peter & Gail Crozier, Travis Downie & Kym Hampton, John & Annette Flynn, Margo Milde, Gerry & Angie Gerlach, Lyn Gibson, John & Norma Gray, Carol Ingram, John & Isabel Ireland, Michael Knight & Sandra Legg, Nick & Sian Leywood, Peter & Angie MacKinnon, Tim & Naomi McMullen, James & Deanna McNaughton, Kevin & Cheryl Moffatt,Jeremy & Jenni Reithmuller, Ken Taylor & Jacqui Stumel, Kathy Wallace, Judy Dunning, Col & Jennie Duff, Gail Smith, Jonty and Lou Shuter, Wendy Conkey, Dawn Georigou, Fran Robertson, Robyn Rossiter, Kathy Wallace, Bob & Cathy Willis, David & Diane Wishart
The Wollundry Changeover dinner was held on Tuesday June 27th and the new board is pictured above. From the left: Geoff Breust, Rob Nickolson, Neil Pinto, David Byfield, President Paul Milde, Peter Green, James Hamilton, David Benn and Richard Rossiter. To see more photos of the changeover click here or on the above photo.
James Hamilton presented the Budget figures which had been circulated to all members via email. There were few questions due to the clear and concise reporting by James. James moved a motion to pass the budget which was seconded by Pat Ingram. Motion was carried without any dissent.
Rotary Information
Today Rotary Information was delivered by Pat Ingram who gave us further information into our Club's support for the Riverina Cancer Care Centre. In 1999 a public meeting was called at the Leagues Club to appeal to the Wagga Community to raise funds for a Cancer Care Centre on land owned by the Little Company of Mary at Calvary Hospital. Prior to this time cancer sufferers had to travel to Sydney for treatment. Two large individual donations kicked off the fund raising, one was for $50,000 and another for $40,000. Our Club, Wollundry gave $30,000.
As a result of these early leads the target of $2 million was quickly raised from the community. The Cancer Care Centre became a reality and if built today would cost in the order of $45 million. Over the years our Club has donated approximately $100,000 to the Cancer Care Centre.
Sergeant Session
John Flynn doled out the fines today commencing with David Foster for late return of snow chains. David also carried the box. John fined all club members for failing to answer his riddle about an actual attempt to rig betting on a cricket match in Pakistan. The problem appeared to be that the fraudsters had nominated the last ball of the over when a "no-ball" was to be bowled. For those who know cricket a no-ball results in another ball being bowled, which means a "no-ball" cannot possibly be the last ball of an over. The bookmakers refused to pay out on this little scam. Just proves crims are not always very bright. Neither were we so we all had to pay the fine. John gave us all a laugh with a joke about hikers at the expense of politicians.
Gears and Beers
Phil McIntosh gave us an update on the upcoming gears and beers event. It is shaping up really well with $38,000 already in our bank account for registrations for the "dirty one thirty". This event is capped at 375 riders an Phil has no doubt this quota will be filled.
The aim is to have up to 1500 riders on the day.
The craft brewers are locked in for the event and include a couple of new ones: Modus Operandi and Black Dog. One cider brewer is also coming.
Phil reported that Travis Downie is doing a great job putting sponsorship packages together and a newsletter will go out to all previous riders.
Members are asked to check out the Facebook site and encourage others to do so as well to spread the word.
It is hoped to include a new event on the Saturday evening prior to the festival which will be entertaining for the riders and as they attend Wagga City Council precinct after 5.30 p.m. to collect their rider packs. This event will be an Urban Cross Bike ride. The track will be around the civic precinct, under the lagoon bridge, making a circuit which will be screened by a Drone above so that all can see the action. A number of food outlets and drink stalls will be available to encourage people to stay.
Phil thanked members for the good turn out to planning meetings for the event.
Biggest Ever Blokes' Lunch
Jim Gibson announced that this annual event will be held on the 1st Friday in September at the RSL Club. Put the date in your diary. More information will follow. The MC will be Lex Marinos and guest speaker will be Mick Collis.
GUEST SPEAKER
Tayla Crevatin our outward bound International Exchange Student 2016/17 was our guest speaker today. Tayla spent her exchange in Denmark and told us that it was an amazing experience. She began by thanking the club for giving her such an opportunity.
Her exchange began in Central Copenhagen where she lived in an Apartment with her first host family. They had a beautiful view over the city and took her on a winter holiday to Skagen.
Her second host family had two boys and also a niece living with them so Tayla had some good times with young people who helped her with language and getting used to a different culture. During this time she travelled to Germany, France, Belgium and Spain on holidays.
Touring different countries and places in Denmark was a feature of Tayla's time on exchange. Her third host family took her to Ferie Islands and then with a group of other exchange students she completed a Euro tour for two and a half weeks. The tour took in Berlin, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Venice, Monaco, Avignon, Paris including a visit to Euro Disney, Belgium and one day in Holland.
Tayla enjoyed school especially theatre and language. On the Danish Queen's birthday she saw Princess Mary on the balcony of the palace.
At the end of the year she was required to give a speech in Danish. At first Danish was difficult and although it has fewer words than English you need to know context as the one word can have several different meanings.
In Denmark Tayla celebrated Christmas on Christmas eve as is their custom. With her host family, they all lit candles on the tree and then sang and danced around a fire and opened presents afterwards.
Tayla was asked a number of questions and members were impressed with her delivery and the obvious maturing effect the exchange had wrought on Tayla. She was given a round of applause for her speech and thanked by President Geoff.
WILLIS' LAST MEETING AND FAREWELL
President Geoff asked Willis to come to the microphone to say farewell. Willis has endeared himself to members over the year of his exchange and although his command of English is fairly basic, he conveyed his appreciation in a heartfelt and at times emotional way. He said he wanted to thank all the members of Wollundry Rotary and especially his host families Ken and Jacqui, Michael and Sandra, Jonti and Louise and Martin and Erica Crevatin.
He said John Hawkins, his counsellor was very nice but killing sheep was horrible. He liked Wagga very much and described it as beautiful. His exchange included many experiences, flying in a balloon and a number of flights with the Luftwagga. The Taylors took him around half of Australia he said and he appreciated that very much. He ended by saying "I'm gonna miss you guys"
Willis flies out of Wagga on his return flight to Taiwan at 4.30 pm on Monday next.
President Geoff presents Willis with some mementos of his time with Wollundry
Willis receives the traditional Akubra from charter members Graham Burmeister and Ken Cook and a pen from PP Rick Priest.
Claire Lawlor and David Byfield
Apologies, Guests and Makeups.
Guests: Willis Cheng, Tayla Crevatin, Claire Lawlor, Chris O'Sullivan
Apologies: Craig Bromley, Tim Barter, David Benn, Doug Conkey, Peter Crozier,Col Duff, John Egan, Gerry Gerlach, John Gray, David Hodge, John Ireland, Peter MacKinnon, Tim McMullen, Robert Nicholson, Neil Pinto, Malcolm Robertson, John Smith, Bob Willis, Ken Taylor.
After welcoming Willis home from the Safari, President geoff presented a detailed report:
Board Meeting last night at the Commercial Club, the second last for the year. Attended by some of the incoming directors – particularly David Byfield, David Benn and James Hamilton.
Board approved a number of Projects recommended by the Projects Committee – they included:
$3,000 to St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
$3,000 to Anglicare Winter Appeal
$750 contribution to the Global Grant for the Kivu Congo Project
$2,000 to Country Hope
$10,000 to the Forest Centre upgrade appeal
$1,250 from the AED Fund for an AED for WCAC – 50% contribution
(Club has to ratify the above expenditure over the $1,000 Board delegation – ie all above except the $750 for the Global Grant Project in Congo)
Board also reviewed its funds for the remainder of this FY – and decided there was up to $16,000 available from the Community Account for worthwhile Projects for approval by 30 June. Have asked Projects Committee to review applications and in particular review applications for funding under the Gears and Beers and Food and Wine allocations for applicable funding.
Board also reviewed the position in the Club Account and based on actual performance, has resolved to provide a refund of $50 per member. Members will have the options of:
Retaining the $50
Leave it in the Club Account for use on Club Social functions
An additional donation to Rotary Foundation – ie, become a Centurion
Donate it to the Wollundry Community Account for use on Projects.
The Club Account Budget for next year was also approved by the Board. Subs will remain at $450, plus $50 to Foundation. Provision jas been made in the Budget for Social activities.
The Board also decided NOT to host an international exchange student this coming year on the basis that it has become more difficult to find host families and Wollundry has dome more than its share of hosting. The view is that unless we can have four host families locked in at the start of the year, we should not proceed with hosting.
The Board also has encouraged the Gears and Beers Committee to engage a paid admin/marketing assistant and recruitment arrangements are underway.
A special partners too social night is being arranged for Wed 14 June at the Wagga Bowl – (10 pin) – for which the Club will cover the $25 cost. Peter Clucas is arranging. Invitations will be sent shortly. We also encourage those who have possible new member contacts to invite them along too.
Planning is underway for changeover – Tuesday 27 June. The Club will also subsidise the evening with a contribution to meals and drinks. Invitations will be sent by email not in the post as in previous years.
Rob Fuller has resigned from the Club and Kevin Moffatt has indicated he is resigning – both due to work and other commitments.
I visited Dave Wishart at Yathong House last Wed – he is very much better and much the old David again. He is hping to be home in the coming weeks and back to Rotary. He would be happy to receive visitors – but not all at once.
Board Meeting last night at the Commercial Club, the second last for the year. Attended by some of the incoming directors – particularly David Byfield, David Benn and James Hamilton.
Board approved a number of Projects recommended by the Projects Committee – they included:
$3,000 to St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
$3,000 to Anglicare Winter Appeal
$750 contribution to the Global Grant for the Kivu Congo Project
$2,000 to Country Hope
$10,000 to the Forest Centre upgrade appeal
$1,250 from the AED Fund for an AED for WCAC – 50% contribution
(Club has to ratify the above expenditure over the $1,000 Board delegation – ie all above except the $750 for the Global Grant Project in Congo)
Board also reviewed its funds for the remainder of this FY – and decided there was up to $16,000 available from the Community Account for worthwhile Projects for approval by 30 June. Have asked Projects Committee to review applications and in particular review applications for funding under the Gears and Beers and Food and Wine allocations for applicable funding.
Board also reviewed the position in the Club Account and based on actual performance, has resolved to provide a refund of $50 per member. Members will have the options of:
Retaining the $50
Leave it in the Club Account for use on Club Social functions
An additional donation to Rotary Foundation – ie, become a Centurion
Donate it to the Wollundry Community Account for use on Projects.
The Club Account Budget for next year was also approved by the Board. Subs will remain at $450, plus $50 to Foundation. Provision jas been made in the Budget for Social activities.
The Board also decided NOT to host an international exchange student this coming year on the basis that it has become more difficult to find host families and Wollundry has dome more than its share of hosting. The view is that unless we can have four host families locked in at the start of the year, we should not proceed with hosting.
The Board also has encouraged the Gears and Beers Committee to engage a paid admin/marketing assistant and recruitment arrangements are underway.
A special partners too social night is being arranged for Wed 14 June at the Wagga Bowl – (10 pin) – for which the Club will cover the $25 cost. Peter Clucas is arranging. Invitations will be sent shortly. We also encourage those who have possible new member contacts to invite them along too.
Planning is underway for changeover – Tuesday 27 June. The Club will also subsidise the evening with a contribution to meals and drinks. Invitations will be sent by email not in the post as in previous years.
Rob Fuller has resigned from the Club and Kevin Moffatt has indicated he is resigning – both due to work and other commitments.
I visited Dave Wishart at Yathong House last Wed – he is very much better and much the old David again. He is hping to be home in the coming weeks and back to Rotary. He would be happy to receive visitors – but not all at once.
Sergeant for today, Frank Fuller, was still on his game. David Benn went for soliciting business with the data base, James Ross for giving his new wife extra work to do by buying silver, John Egan for having to borrow from others, and Pat Ingram was chipped for his barbecue management style.
Frank told a very good story about people who thought they might be Japanese!!
A cross fine went to John Gary who informed us what happened to Benny's bed
A great afternoon's entertainment!
"Pykie made some sort of confusing economic statement at today's meeting about costs of the concert $20, as compared to watching some third graders run around at Connolly $5 on Saturday.
Its the price you pay for quality! Two world class choirs and a great individual act for $20.
Accountants need to do their sums better!" Author unknown!!!
Here is an introduction to the combined conductor, Rachel Campbell
Rachel joined the ARC as musical director in 2014, after having been with them as Assistant Musical Director from 2013. She holds a Bachelor of Music with first class honours and is currently writing her PhD on portraits of musicians in the 19th Century. She has lead the choir in several high-profile performances in regional centres, and collaborated with professional ensembles such as the Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon. One of her proudest achievements as MD is the production of the ARC’s first CD entitled ‘World in Union’, which, coincidentally is on sale here today! Members of the Australian Rugby Choir report to me that she is lovingly known as Madam Lash.
Don't miss it! There are many members from Wollundry in the choir.
Doug did it!!
Apologies, Guests and Makeups.
Guests:
Paul Meggison, John Serong, Chris O'Sullivan, and Danika Smith, Willis Cheng.
Apologies:
Laurie Blowes, Craig Bromley, Daniel Burns, Ken Cook, Doug Conkey, Michael Georgiou, Jim Gibson, John Ireland, Steve McCoy, Tim McMullen, Robert Pearson, Neil Pinto, Jeremy Reithmuller, Bob Willis, David Wishart, Travis Downey,
Makeups:
David Pike, Richard Rossiter, Greg O'Hare, Paul Milde, Mark Hillis, David Foster, James Hamilton, Jerry Gerlach, David Benn, Jeff Breust , Robert Nicholson, David Byfield, Michael Knight, John Ferguson, John Flynn, Frank Fuller, Pat Ingram, John Egan, James Ross, John Smith,
A time lapse video of the last Saturday Markets can be seen by clicking on the photo above. A camera took a photo every 30 seconds. You will see 800 photos in a little over 90 seconds.
There is background music, so turn on your speakers.
The official checque presentation of the 2017 Riverina BMW Food and Wine Festival took place Tuesday afternoon at Wollundry Rotary's weekly meeting. . The major beneficiary of the $40,000 this year was the Riverina Cancer Care centre. Pictured from left are: Festival Chairman Tim Barter, Wollundry Rotary President Geoff Breust, Riverina BMW Manager Steve Hodgson, Cancer Care Center Director Damien Williams and Cancer Care Board member and Former MP Joe Schipp.
Doug Sutton from Wollundry Rotary announced the approval of a US $35,000 Rotary Global Grant to provide pig raising and fish farming to 12 villages in Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. It was one of the few large grants approved in the district and PDG Gary and Marilyn Roberts, the original grant applicants, are pictured above with Committee Chair Doug Sutton.
It was a long process and major success for all involved and PDG Gary and Marilyn and Doug are to be congratulated for this outstanding achievement. A complete copy of Doug's announcement to the club is printed below:
Congratulations! Your global grant application for funding to provide pig raising and fish farming to 12 villages in Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, submitted by Bukavu/district-9150 and Wollundry-Wagga Wagga/district-9700, has been approved by The Rotary Foundation. The award is in the amount of $35.775.00
The 2017 Riverina BMW Food and Wine Festival has been widely acknowledged to be another very successful event. The rains held off and the crowds poured in and the food wine and entertainment was at its best. Crowd numbers were over 5,000 with the greater trends between 5 and 9 in the evening.
Photo Albums of the vendors can be seen by clicking on the vendor photos below. Photos of the volunteers and the huge crowd can be seen by clicking on the right photo below or the crowd photo above.
Tim had asked Paul Murray for photos to be taken on set up, layout, stalls, crowd etc, and he did very satisfactorily.
Negatives;
- A few members have conveniently taken holidays on the weekends when our two big festivals are on, and he asks that you re-consider.
- Set-up is a very hard work, and therefore, if you are rostered on for a period, please be there and stay for the duration of the shift, as there are particular tasks that groups or individuals will be relied upon, and if you are not there, then the task falls onto the remaining members, who have already had their share of the work load.
- This is not a democracy on the day, so please do what is asked of you.
Positives.
- Successful Festival
- Helpers did a brilliant job
- stall holders and patrons had a great day
- only 2 ejections out of a possible 5000 in attendance
- 1 minor injury, attended to by St Johns.
- Safety things are working
- Site is safe as can be
- No fencing, thanks to Des Damme, was a huge relief
- The inaugural Gold Plate Restaurant Challenge was a hit, and the people involved from the 4 establishments had fun with it, thank you Michael Knight, and Sandra.
-( The Oakroom sold out of product.)
- Expect more entrants in the challenge next year
- VIP was an outstanding success, thanks to food by Uneke and Yenda - Australian Brewing Company for their major support.
- thanks to the members who worked tirelessly on the two days to make it a success.
- 200 guests from BMW and 200 Rotary Sponsors
- Please support Yenda by purchasing their products, the public loved them, and the apple cider is the new choice for many.
If you have any expenses that you incurred, please pass them onto David Hodge or Doug Conkey.
Rough Numbers;
3100 paying adults at the gates
600 children
1300 others - stallholders, VIP and Volunteers
The current site for the Food and Wine is ideal.
$ entry charge should be revised upwards.
Upping the ante with entertainment was a success, and should continue to up.
Roughly $90,000 net from the event, $40,000 going to Cancer Care and the remainder to be distributed by the projects committee for national and international projects.
Wednesday 6th April, 6pm for drinks, and dinner for the de-brief as per usual. Members pay their own way.
President Geoff advised that we will be looking for a new OIC to replace Tim - almost immediately.
He suggested a structure of Manager and 2 x assistant managers, to get the resources together and manage them.
Local representatives Dan Hayes and Joel Fitsgibbons were at the festival on the weekend.
Please get your feedback in for the committee to consider at the de-brief dinner on the 6th April, you are important too.
Today's Guest Speaker, Phil Roy was intoduced by Craig Bromley.
Phil is a director of systems and applications at CSU. There are some 230 applications that the crew at CSU manages.
The theme of his talk was that the rate of change was increasing and that technology was rapidly becoming both necessary and accepted in the community. There is disruption ahead! There are complete changes coming in the way we use technology, and its effect on current businessses will be profound. Phil used Kodak as an example. Although Kodak owns many of the patents that make digital image capture possible, they didn't capitalise on the advances that they themselves introduced and so lost 90% of their business.
The Taxi business is another classic example with the introduction of Uber, music sales have changed in character completely, as has TV with live streaming. Newsprint is under huge pressure, as is journalism itself. The AFL media unit will soon be a broadcast station in itself.
There are unintended consequences. Amazon began as on line selling service, but now uses its cloud facility to support other retailers, such as Canon, AON etc, SMS developed in the same way.
The Internet of Things connects us to things by WIFI. Examples are door locks, sprinkler systems, refrigeration, light control, security etc. It seems strange, but the average household even now has somewhere around 7 devices attached to WIFI. Weather stations are a popular use of this technology. The particularly clever ones can monitor the weather and rainfall, and adjust your water system accordingly. An estimated 40% saving on water usage.
Phil concluded by drawing our attention to backing up our computer continuously, either to a physical hard drive or to a cloud server.
Change your password often, and make sure it consists numbers symbols and letters. Use different passwords for different application. It won't guarantee that you have absolute security but it will make it harder to hack.
And finally, don't open something that is suspicious! Its if seems to good to be true, on the web it is!!
After fielding several questions that related mostly to NBN, Phil was thanked warmly by PP David Benn.
Today's Guest Speaker, Phil Roy was intoduced by Craig Bromley.
Phil is a director of systems and applications at CSU. There are some 230 applications that the crew at CSU manages.
The theme of his talk was that the rate of change was increasing and that technology was rapidly becoming both necessary and accepted in the community. There is disruption ahead! There are complete changes coming in the way we use technology, and its effect on current businessses will be profound. Phil used Kodak as an example. Although Kodak owns many of the patents that make digital image capture possible, they didn't capitalise on the advances that they themselves introduced and so lost 90% of their business. The Taxi business is another classic example with the introduction of Uber, music sales have changed in character completely, as has TV with live streaming. Newsprint is under huge pressure, as is journalism itself. The AFL media unit will soon be a broadcast station in itself.
There are unintended consequences. Amazon began as on line selling service, but now uses its cloud facility to support other retailers, such as Canon, AON etc, SMS developed in the same way.
The Internet of Things connects us to things by WIFI. Examples are door locks, sprinkler systems, refrigeration, light control, security etc. It seems strange, but the average household even now has somewhere around 7 devices attached to WIFI. Weather stations are a popular use of this technology. The particularly clever ones can monitor the weather and rainfall, and adjust your water system accordingly. An estimated 40% saving on water usage.
Phil concluded by drawing our attention to backing up our computer continuously, either to a physical hard drive or to a cloud server.
Change your password often, and make sure it consists numbers symbols and letters. Use different passwords for different application. It won't guarantee that you have absolute security but it will make it harder to hack.
And finally, don't open something that is suspicious! Its if seems to good to be true, on the web it is!!
After fielding several questions that related mostly to NBN, Phil was thanked warmly by PP David Benn.
James Ross is our District Conference delegate, and addressed our last meeting on the upcoming conference in Orange. DG Michael Milston has invited all the Rotarians in the district and their partners to attend his conference which will be held on March 17 - 19.
A recurring theme from the conference organisers urges Rotarians to book early, and particularly to book accomodation early, as there are several events on in Orange at this time.
Wollundry Rotary has often stayed at the Town Square Motel, but James was unable to book multiple rooms for our members, so we might need to spread out around town.
To Register for the conference, go to the District 9700 website, and follow the links.
Willis gave the club an update on his host family arrangements, and his activities during the week. He will be living in Springvale with Michael Knight and Sandra until early April, after three months with Ken and Jacqui Taylor, and before his final hosts - the Schuters during April, May and June.
Last Sunday, Willis did a grand mountain tour, partly to escape the heat, and visited the historical gold diggings at Adelong, the dam wall at Blowering, Tumut 3 hydro power station at Talbingo, Kiandra, Cabramurra for lunch, Paddy's river falls and Tumbarumba. He slept the last bit of the drive home!!!!
Our Exchange Student is the guest of Wollundry Rotary - not just a guest of Host Parents. There have been some great invitations from members to take Willis out to family activities - Swimming, Dinner, Movies and Water Skiing. Host parents really appreciate all the Rotarians being involved, and urge you to play a role in the exchange.
Willis had his first haircut in Australia yesterday. The reviews are mixed, but the hot summer played a significant part in the decision to proceed.
President Geoff invited PP Phillip McIntosh to the podium, and maintained a detached demeanour as he held up a document, and then announced that it was a letter from the Wagga Wagga City Council.
After a suitable pause, the contents were divulged - and Phil McIntosh has been nominated for the 2017 Ted Ryder Sports memorial award. The nomination is in recognition of his efforts in establishing the Gears and Beers festival, and the rides associated with the event.
This introduction was conducted by Bob Willis - an English Test Cricket captain, introducing an Aussie Test Cricket Captain.
Mark Taylor is a diabetes Educator, with his time spread across two pharmacies, Michael Reilly and South City, and as a nurse at Calvary Hospital.
Mark started with statistics - around 6% of Australians have diabetes, but 15% are pre diabetic, with higher than normal blood sugar levels, and a high risk of crossing into full blown diabetes. There are two categories, with 10% having Type one diabetes, often contracted as a child, and 90% with type two. Diabetes is the condition where the pancreas ceases to produce insulin, the chemical that regulates the sugar levels in the bloodstream.
Type one is an auto immune condition, with a genetic link, contracted under 30 years of age, with sudden onset and treatment requiring up to 5 insulin injections daily, or an electronic insulin pump metering the supply.
Type two is a lifestyle condition, Mark used the term Fair, Fat and Forty, but there are a more complex set of risk factors. Some we cannot control, such as age, genetics, ethnicity and gender. The risk factors that we can control are diet, activity, waist measurement, high blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking.
There is 10 question form available to assess a persons risk of becoming diabetic, but males over 60 will find the process unduly depressing.
One question asked related to symptoms that one would notice to alert a self diagnosis. The answer was a constant thirst, passing lots of Urine, and being constantly tired. A doctor would have blood tests from pathology to confirm his suspicions.
David Pyke moved a Vote of Thanks for the presentation.
Tim Barter spoke to the meeting to update members on progress for planning the Food and Wine Festival for 2017.
The main development is the introduction of the Golden Plate Restaurant Challenge. This new feature involves five restaurants that our committee have selected and invited, each serving a tasting plate in the Tapas, or degustation style for a set dollar value. An assessment card will be provided to each purchaser, who will rate the food on a one to ten scale, and submit their results in a barrel. The results will be averaged out, and a "Golden Plate" recipient selected. The challenge will run from 2.00pm till 5.00 pm, as the staff from the top eateries will need to get back to the kitchen to cater for their evening trade. Winners should be announced at 6.00pm.
The Restaurants approached are: The Oak Room, Bolton on the Park, Thaigga, Charles Sturt Motel and The Pavilion.
The Committee have approached Peter Crisp, from Peter Crisp Galleries to produce a plate to use as a trophy. An example of his Glass art is shown in the photo above.
Other changes proposed for 2017 are variations to the Festival hours. In order to appeal to younger demographics, the festival will run from 1.00pm until 11.00pm. Feedback has suggested that people who were born after we reached the age of 30 are getting ready to go out as new are ready to pack up. The later closing time will appeal to this group, especially as we anticipate contracting some higher profile music to close the festival.
There are new Beer and Cider providers at the festival next year. Our New Sponsor and exclusive beer supplier will be Yenda Beer. We have had a very generous offer from the Brewery at Yenda, and after balancing concerns of local influence, ownership, product range and level of support, our decision was not difficult.
Tim announced that the Daily Advertiser who are a festival sponsor would be publishing a story on the challenge within days, and that appeared on Thursday - featuring a photograph of Pavilion and Thaigga staff facing off with pans and Woks!!!!
James Hamilton was invited to introduce Venerable Archdeacon David Ruthven to deliver the Christmas Message for the Wollundry Rotarians. James advised that David has had stints in Queanbeyan, Cootamundra, and The Sapphire Coast before coming to Wagga Wagga. He has many qualifications, including Bachelor of Theology, Sports Management, Parks and Recreation, and management - a well educated man.
It is a known national characteristic for New Zealand born people to seek to dress in Black, and that may have influenced the career choice for David - he was in clerical garb - black.
David thanked Wollundry Rotary for the support of the Parish Pantry, and told us anecdotally about the need for this service.
He launched into the Christmas message by asking us to suggest the key events of the Christmas Story. He heard our responses - Birth of Christ - three wise Men - Shepherds in the field - Stars in the east - Herod upset, and immaculate conception, but David steered us back to the birth in a stable, placed in a manger. All of this because there was a census, and that took us to project planning.
This edict to have a census came from the governor of Syria. Recent events have proven that this position attracts some unsavoury individuals, but Archdeacon David didn't dwell on this point.
Back to project planning. What does this story tell us about Project planning? We were told that good timing is essential, make sure that you leverage all opportunities and remain adaptable.
Another theme that David developed was that some self deprivation was good for spiritual development. To live without luxuries and remain aware to the plight of the needy can build character.
David wrapped up his presentation by urging a focus on the positive things in life, offering God's blessing, and his wish that Christmas her a time of peace.
Then he drew the raffle for Polioplus, and the wine draw - A positive result for Peter Crozier.
An update from Kae re your Thailand kitchen project.
The school had a great crop of fish and rice. Kae said they have rice for the next 12 months for the school and were able to sell the excess rice as well as the fish.
The money will be used to buy more school kitchen supplies and equipment.
Congratulations, you guys have made it possible for this community to feed their school children in a self sustaining way.
Judy Ferguson was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow at Tuesdays meeting. She is pictured above with President Geoff Breust and John.
PP Peter Crozier announced the award and gave an overview of Judy's achievements. His presentation is reproduced below:
Today, the Rotary Club of Wollundry – Wagga Wagga has the privilege of honouring an outstanding member of the community in the form of bestowing them with the highest honour of Rotary International, a Paul Harris Fellowship.
This awardee was born into a rural family at Casino and was educated locally at Casino Public and High Schools before moving into her tertiary education at the University of New England and the Armidale Teachers College. She taught at several schools on the South Coast and the Riverina for over 40 years.
She met her husband, John, when she was appointed to the Collingullie Demonstration SchooI. I guess only a few would not recognise that I am referring to Judith Anne Ferguson.
Her involvement in the management and love of sports both in the public school and adult fields would be without peer. Her roles within the Primary Schools Sports Association have been voluntary and completed outside her teaching roles. I will touch on her activities in the PSSA:
Wagga Wagga PSSA – Secretary 1984 to 1999; organisation of ten sports throughout Wagga on Friday afternoons at many locations; instrumental in the introduction of the Royal Life Saving Swim and Survive program into Wagga Schools; convenor of Hockey, Softball and Tennis trials; convenor of Swimming Carnivals for 10 years.
Riverina PSSA – Life Member 1995; Softball convenor and Coach 1976 to 1996 responsible for selection and attending state championships; Hockey convenor and Coach 1983 to 1999 responsible for selection and attending state championships.
NSW PSSA – Life member 2008, with John, the only wife and husband team to be made life members in the 127 year history of the organisation; State softball convenor and manager 1989 to 1999 responsible for the organisation of two state championship a year for boys and girls involving 13 teams and the selection and coaching of NSW teams at National championships; involved in the final series for both Boys and Girls school softball knockout competitions where around 800 girls schools and 400 boys schools took part. This was one way to develop her geographical knowledge of NSW. She was the state Coach of the girls hockey team from 1991 to 1997.
Judy Ferguson was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow at Tuesdays meeting. She is pictured above with President Geoff Breust and John.
PP Peter Crozier announced the award and gave an overview of Judy's achievements. His presentation is reproduced below:
Today, the Rotary Club of Wollundry – Wagga Wagga has the privilege of honouring an outstanding member of the community in the form of bestowing them with the highest honour of Rotary International, a Paul Harris Fellowship.
This awardee was born into a rural family at Casino and was educated locally at Casino Public and High Schools before moving into her tertiary education at the University of New England and the Armidale Teachers College. She taught at several schools on the South Coast and the Riverina for over 40 years. She met her husband, John, when she was appointed to the Collingullie Demonstration SchooI. I guess only a few would not recognise that I am referring to Judith Anne Ferguson. Her involvement in the management and love of sports both in the public school and adult fields would be without peer. Her roles within the Primary Schools Sports Association have been voluntary and completed outside her teaching roles. I will touch on her activities in the PSSA:
Wagga Wagga PSSA – Secretary 1984 to 1999; organisation of ten sports throughout Wagga on Friday afternoons at many locations; instrumental in the introduction of the Royal Life Saving Swim and Survive program into Wagga Schools; convenor of Hockey, Softball and Tennis trials; convenor of Swimming Carnivals for 10 years.
Riverina PSSA – Life Member 1995; Softball convenor and Coach 1976 to 1996 responsible for selection and attending state championships; Hockey convenor and Coach 1983 to 1999 responsible for selection and attending state championships.
NSW PSSA – Life member 2008, with John, the only wife and husband team to be made life members in the 127 year history of the organisation; State softball convenor and manager 1989 to 1999 responsible for the organisation of two state championship a year for boys and girls involving 13 teams and the selection and coaching of NSW teams at National championships; involved in the final series for both Boys and Girls school softball knockout competitions where around 800 girls schools and 400 boys schools took part. This was one way to develop her geographical knowledge of NSW. She was the state Coach of the girls hockey team from 1991 to 1997.
President Geoff opened the meeting with Rotary Grace and welcomed our guests
Craig Dorward from Big River Plywood
Adelaide Kovak our CSU Scholarship recipient
Nellie Shepherd our Outbound exchange student
Willis Cheng our exchange student
Ed Clayton from DPI
Rennae Ross
Our Christmas Market will be held on the 10th of December and we are looking for a few extra
volunteers in addition to the rostered team to help with the extended hours on the day.
Darren Wallace gave a recap of the RYPEN weekend held last weekend. A very successful event with
over 60 young people enjoying speakers and activities designed to enhance their leadership skills.
Many topice were covered including health, road safety, youth exchange and leadership.
Peter Crozier from Projects Committee discussed a proposed donation to the Rail Trail Project.
As the issues were quite involved peter advised the proposal would be circulated to members and voted on in
two weeks time. The initial funding required was a donation of $5000 as part of a $40000 design phase for the
project.
Adelaide Kovak gave an update on her progress in equine studies at CSU
She is enjoying her course, and has completed her first year and done work experience at Kooringal Stud.
Adelaide thanked the club for its support of the CSU scholarship.
Richard Rossiter gave a formal thankyou to Craig Dorward from Big River Plywood for allowing us to
visiti their factory at Forest Hill which was an interesting and enjoyable tour of a local business.
Dr Ed Clayton from Department of Primary Industries gave an interesting talk on his research
and history of the Ag Department in Wagga. They are currently studying the effect of diet on lambing
percentage and gender balance with changes in Omega 3 and Omega 6 acids.
Interesting results are appearing with increases in twins and females in response to diet changes.
Ed is working with MLA and AWI as well as large corporates like Cargills.
FOUNDATION FACTS NUMBER 18
“Did you know that the number one per capita club in Australia in 2015-16 was Archerfield in D9630 at $US 13,264.13?” This club has 17 members and is also the number 2 per capita club in the world.
Today's meeting was set aside for the AGM and to see the Wagga Rescue Squad demonstrate the item of equipment purchased with the BMW Food and Wine Festival 2015 funds.
John Rourke, From the Wagga Rescue Squad demonstrates the new jaws of life.
It is an Electronic Direct Drive, which saves a hose set up.
They replaced an existing set, which run on compressed air, through hoses from a compressor.
In fact, as soon as the truck rolled up at the Commercial Club at lunch time, it was called away to an accident to free the driver of a motor vehicle.
They took 3.5 minutes to complete the task of removing the door from the vehicle, and then back to the club for a demo.
The unit has a 26" spread, and maximum pressure at the strongest point of 34.9 tonne.
They also spent money on a couple of Auto Cribs, which are devices that act as a fail safe under a car as it is jacked up.
Ken Middleton presented President Geoff, a certificate of appreciation from the squad.
Fine session.
An very embarrassed David Benn, a cricket tragic, proceeded to collect money by asking Wallace ( Willis) to throw a couple of coins up in the air for a round of Heads and Tails, duly won by Andy Irvine.
Sprout and About Market report.
Team
David Byfield
Greg Conkey
Col Duff
David Foster
Gerry Gerlach
Geoff Hamilton
David Hodge
Pete McKinnon
Rob Nicholson
Wal Paton
Malcolm Robertson
Willis
Nick Leywood
Banked $1,073.80
17 stalls, including the BBQ.
Recommendations.
BBQ to be Moved to a site away from Trees
BBQ Trailer to have Wollundry Rotary branding placed on Esky's, BBQ etc
Need Plastic plates & Serviettes for next Market
Buy Bacon from Woolies (Riverina Berkshire too expensive ($110.20) & need to cancel standing order
Deja Vu (Entertainment) would like to be invited to next market)
No Water Needed for next Market
South Wagga Bakery to be paid $65.28 as per Invoice
Reteif Wines will Direct Deposit $55
AGM.
President Geoff opened the meeting,
announced Minutes, and handed over to David Pyke for a very comprehensive accounts report.
Paul Milde announced the incoming Board.
Wollundry Rotary Club Board for 2017 – 2018.
President: Paul Milde.
Secretary: David Benn.
Treasurer: James Hamilton.
Club Directors.
Club Administration: Peter Green.
Service Projects: David Byfield.
Youth: Neil Pinto.
Foundation: Bob Willis.
Membership: Rob Nicholson.
Public Relations: Richard Rossiter.
Immediate Past President: Geoff Breust.
James Hamilton presented the changes needed to the By-Laws of the club, and the Constitution.
He and others had attended a course of instruction outlining amendments required as a result of electronic devices.
A copy of the minutes will be distributed in due course.
President Geoff nominated James Hamilton for Public Officer, Seconded Andy Irvine, carried.
Members Draw, 41, 59, and then 2, David Benn.
FOUNDATION FACTS:
Foundation Fact No:17
“Did you know that the number one per capita club in the world in 2015-2016 was in Maracay in Venezuela at US$ 16,179.99 ? This Club has 16 members.”
Bob Willis
Hume Business Lunch
DATE AND TIME
LOCATION
The International Hotel, cnr Lake Albert Road & Sturt HW
Join Hume Bank and Wagga Business Chamber for a very special luncheon with former CEO of the Commonwealth Bank and former inaugural chairmain of the Australian super fund, David Murray AO. Mr Murray will speak about leadership and the Australian global economic outlook.
Key insights for Wagga businesses on the economy.
ALL PROCEEDS from the lunch will be DONATED to country hope, which provides family centred support services to country children diagnosed with cancer and other life threatening illnesses.
President Geoff welcomed club members and visiting cricketing rotarians and friends to a
week of competition and fellowship in Wagga Wagga. The weather held off, and an outdoor
meeting was held at the Duke of Kent oval, with our visiting cricketing rotarians.
We had visitors from as far as India, Great Britain, New Zealand as well as Cairns, Perth and
Maryborough in Australia.
David Benn and John Gray welcome our VIP visitors:
IFCR President Ravi Raman and Vice President Vipul Patel, John Dean from New Zealand, Doug KIng
from Australia and Norman Brown from GreatBritain.
Wagga Wagga's Mr Cricket - Warren Smith gives an interesting talk on local cricket and the champions
it has produced, as well as displaying some cricketing memorabilia.
Secretary Gerry Gerlach reminds us about Rotaract Charter Dinner - please support if you can.
Rotary Information - Bob Willis
ROTARY FOUNDATION REPORT
FOUNDATION FACTS
FACT 12“Did you know that THE ROTARY FOUNDATION is Rotary International’s ONLY charity?”
FACT 13.........”Did you know that PersonalGivingto the Rotary Foundation in Australia is tax deductible if the contribution is given via THE AUSTRALIAN ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUST?”
WORLD POLIO DAY
World Polio Day is celebrated this Monday 24th October. Our Board has decided that at our meeting the following day, the proceeds from the fines sessionwill be given to the Polio appeal and topped up to a reasonable donation. So bring your money with you and give generously to this wonderful cause.
FOUNDATION CENTENARY
The Board has decided to encourage members to participate in a Lake Fun Run which district Rotary is organising to celebrate the centenary of Rotary Foundation. Further details to follow when available.
James Hamilton presented today's Rotary Information on Poverty and Rotary Health.
Did you know
The United Nations estimated that 200 years ago that 80% of the world’s population lived in poverty. In 1981 44% of world’s population lived in poverty and in 2011 16.3% of world’s population lived in poverty. Of the 16.3% about 700 million people live in extreme poverty where their income is less than US$1.90 per day. Rotary has played an integral part in the reduction of poverty world wide.
Rotary Health
Hat Day, is an initiative of Australian Rotary Health, one of the largest not-for-profit funders of mental health research in Australia.
Australian Rotary Health engages with a variety of funding partners to provide Research Grants and PhD Scholarships. These projects encompass a broad range of general health areas including cancer, heart disease, children’s health, motor neuron disease, diabetes and more.
There are two ways we fund health research:
Funding Partner PhD Scholarships
Research Companion PhD
Since the year 2000, Australian Rotary Health has focused its funding on mental health research. In 2012 this focus narrowed to the Mental Health of Young Australians, and in 2013 research projects focussing on the Prevention of Mental Health Disorders were included.
John Egan enlightened us further with the following information: One in five Australians will suffer a mental illness during their lives. Laughter is the best medicine along with Fellowship and exercise. He reminded us to keep a lookout for the symptoms of depression in our friends and families; withdrawal, sadness, lack of interest etc. and make sure to ask them how they are.
John reported that our hat day raised $268 which will be met by the Board making a grand total of $536 which will be forwarded to Rotary Health.
President Geoff determined the winners of the Hat Competition: 1st Prize to Burmo (Looking a lot like Yasser Arafat), 2nd to Tim McMullen and 3rd to Ken Taylor with a special mention to David Pyke and Rob Nicholson.
Foundation Facts
FOUNDATION FACTS NUMBER 11
“Did you know that less than 20% of Rotarians in New Zealand make regular personal contributions to THE ROTARY FOUNDATION”
BECOME A FOUNDATION CONTRIBUTOR.
Note; It is my understanding that our club has a higher percentage of regular contributors but in this year which is the centenary of Rotary Foundation, I would urge all of our members who don’t already contribute, to become regular contributors.
Bob Willis
Foundation Chair.
The Forrest Centre Appeal
Doug Conkey is looking for helpers at the Golf Day on October 14th. This is in support of the Forrest Centre’s Palliative Care centre. If you can help can you please contact Doug as soon as you can.
If you’d like to play, its $50 and you get two free golf balls (should get some of us half way round!!)
Sergeant.
Laurie Blowes was today's sergeant and he ordered Corporal Paul Milde to carry the box. With reference to the Gears and Beers Festival, Laurie quoted Mark Twain as saying " learn to ride a bike and you won't regret it - if you live". Everyone was fined for one reason or another: backing the losing football side AFL or NRL; naming Laurie - Blowers instead of Blowes; John Flynn for witnessing a nasty accident in the 50 k ride and Dr Neil Pinto for coming to the rescue with a portable stretcher (a flattened box). He then told an Irish Joke about two cyclists.
Paul Milde cross fined Frank Fuller and Peter Green. Mark Hillis fined David Foster for an unbelievable array of stuff up in organising an outing to an AFL match.
Gears and Beers
Phil McIntosh chair of the Gears and Beers Committee and driving force behind our prestige event, said a simple thank you is not enough for the work put into this Sensational Day!
At 2.30 p.m. he was given notice that our event could not proceed in the Victory Memorial Gardens due to the wet conditions and would need to move. A meeting was held, Dave Foster drew up a new map ad we were underway with the fantastic cooperation of Wagga Wagga City Council and their General Manager Alan Eldridge and new Mayor Greg Conkey. All stall holders turned up bar one. Huge credit must be given to Tim Barter who pulled it all together with everyone pitching in to help.
There were 1,102 riders, a new record. Phil said he had spent two hours replying to emails which were all extremely positive about the event. He gave us a sample by reading an email from the owners of the Bright Brewery, who are eager to return again next year.
Phil said that there will be a premiere of an 8 min film of the Wollundry Gears and Beers Festival in about three weeks.
Don't forget to visit www.gearsandbeers.org.au and watch the video of Phil being interviewed by Adam Drummond with many shots of previous rides.
Tim Barter was equally enthusiastic about the day and thanked everyone who helped out. He said the Facebook response to the event had been great and it appeared the mud and the water had been a positive as far as the riders were concerned.
Tim singled out for a special thank you: Steve McCoy, (Sound and Lighting and Big Screen), Michael Eldridge (his right hand man); Col Duff (power supply); Coates Hire (special equipment) Wagga City Council and Mayor Greg Conkey and Alan Eldridge for their outstanding support and cooperation.
Tim said that the Gears and Beers Festival is not just about how much money we can make. It is much more than that because it creates an event for the community of Wagga which can be enjoyed and shared and that is the most important thing.
INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF CRICKETING ROTARIANS
All cricket fans are advised that a major international cricketing competition will take place at Duke of Kent Oval starting the 16th of October.
John Gray our chief cricket tragic announced the following:
A Mayoral Reception for participants
4 days of competition Mon/Tues and Thurs/Fri of the week commencing 17th October.
Participants from Great Britain, India, Pakistan and all parts of Australia.
Help is required in the form of Marquees, Tables Chairs, Transport for Participants
Partner of cricketer will be entertained with visits to Sale Yards, Glass Collection, Coolamon Cheese Factory (Wed)
This will be a great opportunity for fellowship and fun and our Club will support it 100%
BLACK TIE DINNER TWENTY PLUS YEARS
On Tues evening a black tie dinner was held at the Riverine Club for Wollundrians who have completed twenty years of membership. A good crowd came to the event which was hosted by Riverine Club Chair Burmo. A convivial evening of food and drink and fellowship was had by all.
John Ireland and Burmo regaled us with tall tales of a legal variety which centred on the Riverine Club.
The photos below are evidence of the evening.
Advocate John Ireland makes a telling point amusing wife Isabel, Judge's assistant Paul Milde looks entirely sceptical.
Members and Partners pose for a photo in Riverine Club Hall
Twenty Plus years Wollundrians in their finery.
Back Row: John Egan, Andrew Irvine, James Hamilton, Doug Sutton, John Smith, Paul Milde, John Ireland, Mark Hillis
Front Row: Michael Knight, John Gray, Ken Cook, Graham Burmeister, David Byfield, Peter Crozier, John Flynn
VISITORS
Tessa Hawkins (John's daughter) and partner Jarrod from Wisconsin.
Apologies and Makeups
Make ups:
Craig Bromley, Geoff Hamilton, Andrew Irvine, James Ross, Tim Barter, John Gray, Gerry Gerlach, James Hamilton, David Wishart, David Pyke, Nick Leywood, Daniel Burns, Rob Fuller.
Apologies:
Hugh Campbell, Craig Bromley, Greg Conkey, John Ferguson, Frank Fuller, Daniel Burns, Geoff Hamilton,Pat Ingram, John Mason, Paul Murray, Rick Priest, Malcolm Robertson
Greg Conkey OAM, PHF Past President and Current Member of Wollundry Rotary Club was elected Mayor Of Wagga Wagga on Monday.
On his arrival at our regular Tuesday lunchtime meeting Greg was met with enthusiastic applause from all present.
We are proud of our popular Rotarian and we are all sure that he will do a great job in this most responsible role. Our congratulations go to Greg and his wife Jenny who will also assume a number of responsibilities as Lady Mayoress.
Greg addressed members and assured us that there were no deals done. His only condition on standing for the top job was that Dallas Tout would be his deputy and this was agreed to by his supporters. He praised outgoing Mayor Rod Kendall for the gracious manner he had accepted Greg's promotion and thanked Rod for the support he had offered. He said he was pleased that former mayor Kerry Pascoe, also a club member, was also on council and had offered advice and assistance.
Greg said he would stay an active member of Wollundry as he needed the members to keep his feet on the ground. He thanked everyone for their support.
Naturally Greg did not escape a substantial fine from our Sergeant John Gray.
Guest Speaker was Bob Aitken, the roving ambassador for Australian Rotary Health
In an enthusiastic talk he outlined the amazing work that ARH has done since its inception some 30 years ago by Ian Scott, who decided that we needed to have more access to medical research funds. He was particularly touched by the high incidence of Cot Death and proceeded to raise funds. Australian Rotary Health was born.
In that thirty years we have raised and spent more than 33 million dollars, all of which has gone into Australian medical research .
The current area of focus is Mental Health, and Bob mentioned two frightening statistics, the first being that one person in five will suffer some mental problem in their lives; the second that suicide outnumbers road fatalities. We need to find out the factors so that we can reduce the incidence of self harm. Another amazing statistic is that 17000 people were badly enough affected by mental torture that they attempted suicide!!
Bob urged us to keep up our support, and suggested that some may like to become private donors. The work is important, very important.
It was very pleasing to have District Governor Michael Milston and partner Ann Dibb along with ADG Bryan Short and Sally join us for our meeting this week.
Prior to our club meeting, Geoff Hamilton, Gerry Gerlach, Jim Gibson (for Pykie) and I met with Michael and Bryan for about 45 minutes. The following points were noteworthy from our discussions:
Wollundry’s Strategic Plan was good;
Wollundry was still the largest club in the district and generally the highest contributor of funds to charitable causes;
membership numbers at district level (and higher) was considered an issue, but at local club level was more about being able to operate effectively – did not really matter whether we were in one district or another;
Wollundry is not the only all male club – and there are no specific policies relating to such;
Wollundry is heavily involved in a wide range of Rotary activities – Youth Exchange (one in, two out) RYPEN (bringing former participants to run the next event), RYLA, RYDA and helping the establishment of Rotaract Club CSU, significant community support via large donations and support to local initiatives through F and W and G and B festivals, Defib for Life program, Cambodian and Congo projects overseas;
recommended we continue to upload our good stories to RI.
In general, Wollundry enjoys continued success in all facets of Rotary activity.
Ann Dibb’s presentation at our meeting concerning the ongoing program to rid the world of polio confirmed we are almost there! There are now literally only tens and hundreds of cases in the difficult areas of the world – Pakistan and Afghanistan. I’m sure Wollundry will continue to direct funds to this great cause.
I acknowledge that I am here on Wiradjuri Land and I pay respects to their elders both past and present.
Thank you for your hospitality and welcoming Michael and me at your club!
I am here to ask you to help End Polio!
Rotarians like ourselves, are here because we care. We have common goals that we strive to reach personally as well with our club. Your goals may be similar to other clubs, may be vastly different but we work together to achieve better outcomes locally and further afield.
I was born in 1951 and I was brought into a world that had first world medicine and vaccines. My father as a 5 year old in the 1920s survived the Diphtheria epidemic in NYC because he had a hospital to go to with staff that could keep his airway open.
I remember some kids at school in callipers and I remember hearing those whispers of my mother and the other mums in the neighbourhood speaking about such and such a child in an ‘iron lung’, I remember so vividly! Also I have a cousin here in Australia who always walked with a limp because she contracted polio out in a regional area, not getting vaccinated in time; the vaccine was a relatively new medicine. I remember the taste of the sweet pink-stained sugar cube....yes I can say, like others, I do re-member polio. I am so thankful that it is for my children’s sake and my grandchildren’s sake, it’s just a memory.
In 1979 under the Rotary Foundation Health, Hunger and Humanity program, Rotary immunised more than 6,000,000 Pilipino children. The International President John Germ, (whose own dad contracted Polio and was unable to support his family) plans to finish the work that Rotary, the primary fundraiser, along with the WHO and UNICEF began in 1988. This was when Rotary Foundation made a commitment to the goal of eradicating Polio worldwide.
Rotary’s End Polio campaign is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation so we can get rid of this disease in the last remaining pockets in the world once and for all.
Some more current info on the infection in the world so far-
Four countries: Pakistan, Afghanistan, India and Nigeria up till just a few years ago all were infected and now:
India is now Polio free since 2014-No recorded cases
Nigeria had 6 cases in 2014 and now polio free since the start of 2016
May 2016
Afghanistan went from 28 (2014) and now has only 5 recorded cases
Pakistan went from 306 (2014) to 11 this year
To date this year there have only been 16 recorded cases in the world.
A country or region is not declared polio free until 3 years have passed without any recorded cases. Once that occurs then vaccinations must continue for every new child born, as it is here in our own Australia until it is totally gone, much like the small pox vax that we had been given but now it is eradicated, no one has those little circular marks on upper arm or thigh.
I am not here to tell you what to do with your hard earned money and where it should go, I am here to ask you to contribute to the success of the End Polio campaign. I am asking you to contribute $26.50, why this amount? Well it is the amount; (in US dollars) that was the first donation to the Rotary Foundation 100 years ago!
If you could all take a moment to think about what $26.50 can do for you...a lunch out, or a few groceries, for you blokes maybe a hair cut... what $26.50 can do for the End Polio is this....
Every $ that we donate, is matched by $2.00 from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Your $26.50 donation with the Gates Foundation $53 will provide $79.50
We have estimated that one dose of the vaccine is about $2...then there are all the other supporting items- vests, carrier bags for vaccines, vaccines and the purple markers to mark each child’s finger to show that they have been vaccinated.
So now I put to your club: if you can donate $2,650 which is 26.50 x 100 years of Foundation, just think how much that could do with the matching $2 for every $ from the Gates Foundation
Thank you for considering putting an end to this preventable disease.... and making it just a memory for all.
Nick Leywood was busy with his duties setting up for our meeting.
David Benns guest was long time friend and Rotarian Mark Stanham
Neil and Nola Pinto were Wheel Meal Deal hosts to Jackie, Ken and Andrew Taylor, and Ken's long time friend Graham (standing at right). Bev and Andrew Irvine and Carolyn and Paul Murray were also guests of the Pintos at the Blue Flame Indian Restaurant. It was a most enjoyable evening.
Geoff Hamilton introduced our guest speaker of the day, his cousin Andrew Hamilton. He noted that they grew up together on neighbouring farms and while Geoff could build a few things … Andrew went on to build himself an airplane. Geoff said that Andrew was here to speak to the club about an outback air race that he and Fiona participated in as a fundraiser for the Flying Doctor's Service.
Andrew started his talk noting that the club was pretty hard up for speakers, but he would be glad to help out his cousin. Andrew told members that listening to Exchange students brought back memories of his time as a Rotary GSE team member with Simon Terry and Michael McCormack in 1992.
He gave members a history of how he built a kit plane. He noted at the time, sales of kits planes were out numbering manufactured planes by a factor of 15 to 1. It took Andrew five years to complete the construction of the plane.
After building the plane, he found he was not using it as much as he hoped and came across a Outback Air Race to raise money for the Flying Doctor's Service. The minimum amount required for participants to raise was $2000 per person so he and his wife had to raise $4000. On the first trip he and his wife raised $20,000 and there were 18 planes entered. The total amount raised was three hundred thousand dollars. The race is held every three years due to the amount of planning involved.
In his second trip, Andrew was exploring places he could visit between the starting point in Esperance and the finish at Hamilton Island. He found Davenport Downs Station … the largest cattle property in Queensland and it was owned by Paraway. He was familiar with Paraway since he had been using their breed stock on his own farm.
He contacted the local Paraway manager in the Riverina and asked if he could stop in at Davenport Downs during the race for a visit. The manager agreed to arranged the visit. It turned out that all of the entrants of the race visited the site and Paraway and their owners, Maquirie Bank came to become sponsors of the race...to the tune of $50,000, which grew to a total of $165,000 in donations from affiliated companies. In total, the last race brought in over six hundred thousand dollars ($600,000) for the Flying Doctor's Service.
Pat Ingram gave a vote of Thanks.
Andrew Hamilton tells us about the Outback Air Race
Greg Conkey gave the Rotary Information on Tuesday. He emailed a copy of his talk to the bulletin Editor, and it is printed below:
I would like to talk about two great organisations bound together by one great city …. The city of Chicago ..
Most .. if not all of us … know that Rotary was started by Paul Harris in 1905 when he got together with three business acquaintances on February 23 …. 16 years later Rotary had spread to six continents including Australia ….
Today Rotary has 34,800 member clubs, 1.2m members and operates in 200 countries ..
Twelve years after Rotary was formed in Chicago another man ….. Melvin Jones …. Asked a simple question ….
“What if people put their talents to work improving communities ….”
Next year the organisation he founded will celebrate its 100th birthday ,,,,, it’s larger than Rotary …. It has 1.4m members and serves in 210 countries ….in Australia the organisation has 26,000 members …
The organisation is Lions International …
So the two greatest service clubs in the world were started by two men with vision in Chicago …
Sergeants Session
John Gray was Tuesday's Sergeant and he started with a fine to Peter Green and then assigned him the task of carrying the box.
He advised everyone to contribute and then said that since we were a male only club, perhaps we should reflect on some interesting British history about Men's clubs.
He read from his notes about the Garrick Club founded in 1831 for actors and gentlemen of refinement. Then he spoke of the Whites club founded in 1693 from which ex-Prime Minister David Cameron had been a member for 15 years and resigned.
He concluded with a story about the Boodles club. In a historic vote, Boodles member’s wives were allowed to not only eat in the dining room but also sleep in the historic upstairs rooms. Accordingly a Boodles member questioned that if wives were allowed upstairs, what about mistresses? The board met in and emergency session and announced that…”Yes, mistresses would be allowed to sleep upstairs...with their illicit partner at the club...as long as they were married to a current member" .
Night
at David Benn's
David Benn is running the second at his place on the 10th September.
Last year, the event raised $1000, and Benny would love to see that, plus this year.
Great farewell to Kat last Friday night at the Thirsty Crow – some 30 all together attended. Kat was quite teary again.
Yesterday about 20 of her school mates farewelled her at the airport – with the Fullers, Wallaces, Robertsons, Dave Foster and yours truly.
Kat had a great impact on Rob and Suzanne Fuller’s six year old son, Jack. He did not want her to go home to Sweden.
Pic attached
Sprout and About was cancelled due weather and state of the ground at the lagoon.
We are seeking guest speakers – an email was sent to all seeking assistance in nominating speakers.
Our first Board Meeting for the year is on next Monday evening here at the Commercial Club at 5.30pm.
All directors are requested to submit their reports to Gerry and myself by email this week to enable reporting and discussion.
I will send out agenda today and a copy of the minutes of the last meeting. Jim Gibson is to fill in for David Pyke, please.
Subject to the weather, I plan to be away next Monday and Tuesday – not a good sign for my second week in office,
but I have a very important task to do – pick up the new plane with my son James.
Neither of us have flown this type before so we will need to do some training and familiarisation before flying it home to Wagga.
Geoff Hamilton has very kindly agreed to step in and conduct the Board meeting and meeting next Tuesday.
Next week our guest speaker is Tom Black from Tumut who is the regional co-ordinator for Austyouth. He will be speaking to us about youth homelessness.
Adelaide Kovac our special guest today was introduced by Bob Willis. Adelaide is the recipient of our CSU Scholarship.
Adelaide addressed us thus:
“My name is Adelaide Kovac, and I am the proud recipient of the Rotary Club Wagga Wagga Wollundry scholarship. I am currently in my first year of a Bachelor of Equine Science at Charles Sturt University Wagga and completely appreciating it. I have always had an interest in the equine world throughout my life, and I have had experience working in the thoroughbred racing world at Caulfield racecourse in Melbourne. I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of it, particularly the more hands-on activities that involved direct contact with the racehorses at my old work. I have always known that I wanted to continue my studies to foster my education with equine science. As the equine industry contributes billions of dollars to the Australian economy each year, it is clear that it is a very important part of Australian culture, and there should be more of a focus on training students such as myself to work at a high level within the industry.
I would like to thank the Rotary Club and any other individuals that were involved in developing my passion, for this scholarship. It will and has already provided a wonderful opportunity for me to live my university life to the full, and allows me to really focus on my studies. I have already gained experience in the real world, particularly the equine industry, through many practical classes – from learning restraint of a horse to physically training young horses. So far, life at uni has been an absolute whirlwind, and I have loved absolutely every minute of it.
As this is the first time for me living away from home, the scholarship allows me to settle in even better to life on campus. The stresses of having to pay for rent, groceries, petrol and everything else in between, are all made so much more simple, for not just me, but my family as well, to whom I owe thanks for supporting me as I move into the next chapter of my life. With this gift, YOU will be helping shape my future and I hope for generations to come they experience the same. Thank you sincerely for this incredible opportunity.”
Wollundry Rotary members are confident that you will do well Adelaide and look forward to return visits to update us on your progress.
Adelaide Kovac is the recipient of our CSU Scholarship
President - to - be Geoff Breust opened the meeting with the traditional Rotary Grace and
Introduced our guests Barbara and Stephanie Eldridge, Louis from Belgium and Kat Jenson our
Exchange student.
Rotary Information
David Foster detailed Wollundry Rotary's youth programs. These include
CSU Scholarships - three $2000 scholarships.
Noel Barnes Scholarship - yr11 at wagga high school and Riverina Anglican college
RYPEN
RYLA
National youth science 5 day school.
Honeywell
Rotary science challenge.
MUNA
Youth exchange
Dream cricket.
Bob Willis reported the awarding. Of CSU Scholarships.
We received twenty applications for our annual CSU scholarship and Book Prizes. From these applicants we interviewed six students and then chose the following students as recipients for this year.
CSU Annual Scholarship Winner: Adelaide Kovac, who is studying Equine Science.
The two Book Prize recipients were: Molly Spackman, studying Animal Science, and Abdul Haiden, studying Medical Radiation Science.
My thanks to Peter Green and John Ireland for their valued input and sitting on the interview panel.
The awards will be presented at a ceremony on May 19th at CSU.
Bob Willis
Chairman
CSU scholarship committee.
Peter Clucas announced the new date for the Social Night, 7pm at Beer Deluxe on 18/5/2016.
Sergeant John Flynn highlighted a north wagga conspiracy??? And then fined everybody.
Secretary Laurie Blowes announced that next week is a vocational visit to the Mens Shed.
Next Sprout and About Market is 14/5/2016.
4 helpers required for 10 tents to memorial gardens 7am to 11am this weekend.
Remote Control Model club.
Anyone interested in getting into regular fellowship with some Remote Control planes, helicopters, and
Drones contact Peter clucas at pclucas@bigpond.com - No experience required - training available.
Member Profile - David Wishart
David recounted a remarkable career across rural and community interests. Born in wagga, David worked initially in the sheep industry in western NSW. A move to Canberra followed with stints as
Milk truck driver, poker machine mechanic, and then Mobil fuel distributor in wagga in charge of
5 depots, 23 service stations and 40 staff.
This was followed by time at Australian Wool Testing Authority, Streets icecreamdelivery driving
And Taxi cabs Wagga. All this plus running his farm at coursing park!
Guest Speaker Alan Eldridge General Manager Wagga City Council.
As the newly appointed manager of wwcc Alan described the challenges of running
the organisation and focussed on several key areas:
Wagga Airport
recent dramas have been sorted and paint operation going ok. Plans for taxiway upgrades
and a bigger terminal.
Bomen
23 residential lots have been approved.
Bomen selling centre IT to be upgraded.
RIFL Hub
the aim is to create a $100m inland port with logistics, and freight interchange. The
project needs funding and input from all levels of government.
Levee Bank
will cost $23m to complete.
doing spillway first at equex and flowerdale.
Riverside
prevented at low cost and is now a great community facility.
John Gray was our Sergeant this week and started by having Cat carry box to reacquaint herself with everyone.
Frank fuller was fined for letting Helen do everything, Jim Gibson for something to do with Cricket, James ross for his pink shirt and handbag, Peter MacKinnon for not going with the bikers , Ken Cook for making his second meeting.
Wollundry members were given a virtual tour on Tuesday of the proposed Wagga to Ladysmith Rail Trail. Lisa Glastenbury and Sam Brunskill presented the proposed Wagga Rail Trail with a very informative and professional slide show and talk.
The Wagga Rail Trail will be a 20km sealed, off-road trail connecting Wagga Wagga CBD with the village of Ladysmith. Following a gentle gradient through rural countryside, the trail will pass Governor’s Hill and Brunslea Park, Forest Hill and the RAAF Base, before crossing the picturesque Kyeamba Creek floodplain via historic rail bridges.
It will be a safe, traffic free trail for passive recreation that everyone can enjoy. Starting at the Visitor Information Centre, the trail will mostly follow the disused Wagga to Tumbarumba railway line. Access to the trail will also be available at Equex, with links to the Kooringal Rd and Riverside cycle ways.
The Trail will end at the Ladysmith Railway Station track head, with its unique display of heritage railway trikes. A management committee of landowners, trail users and community services will manage and maintain the trail for the benefit of the whole community.
Past President John Ferguson gave members an most infromative overview of his life at last Tuesdays meeting. A copy os his speech is reproduced below:
Born Sydney 1947 at the Crown Street Women’s Hospital in the heart of the great South Sydney area.
Had 2 older brothers and a sister and we lived with our parents in a big 100 year old 3 story stone terrace house in Darlinghurst. Mum & Dad purchased it for 700 pounds during WW2 while Dad was serving in New Guinea. Sold recently for $2.8K. Great place to live and grow up with all the main Sydney sporting & cultural attractions within walking distance-SCG, Showground, Botanical Gardens, Harbour, Museums & Kings Cross!
President Geoff Hamilton opened the meeting to the normal grace and toast to the Queen and the people of Australia.
We welcomed Brent Pickard, seen here with Neil Pinto, to the meeting and noted the absence of Kat who is on Safari for three weeks.
He invited members to advise of any trips coming up by members and heard from the bended knee fellows, Frank and David, Tassie Bikie Devils – Hodge, Leywood, Irvine and Clucas, as well as Darren Wallace with a recent trip to Lord Howe Island.
Following a board meeting on Monday night, Mark Hillis presented approved projects to the members.
Seniors Week for $1000, Indian Appeal for 5 Tablets, $550, Wagga Eisteddfod - $1000 and Circus Quirkus for $600. All were voted on and carried.
Another big one, was support for Fiji ShelterBoxes, $12000. Carried
The Board and Travis Downey had pleasure in approving and seeking the members agreement to support the AED project for 1.Media campaign $8,000 and 2. Purchase/ contributions/support on placements to the tune of $14,800. Carried
Rotary Information
Ric Priest had pleasure in reminding the club about FAIM =- Fourth avenue in Motion.
He made a visit to Mannus Island for a project with the club, and since then sent over $380 which kept a whole village in fish for a year. The money bought hooks and sinkers for the fishermen.
Frank Fuller was Sergeant this week, and fined;
Paul Milde – weather forecast for Friday was diabolical
Tim Barter – must have sent the Lord a Prayer
Hillis
Ferguson and
Leywood for being in the VIP tent when the big gust of wind flew through and shifted it some 5 meters – apparently Hillis won the 50 meter sprint
Breust for losing side cutters of Hillis to Jeremy
Jeremy for organising the cheapest hay this side of the Congo
Gibson/Pyke/Ferguson for closing the gates a tad early
Egan for sucking up to the Sergeant to get out of being fined
Irvine/Downey and Knight for apprehending a glass thief and returning them to the VIP tent
Michael Georgiou for obtaining the CPR certificate
Tim Barter took a few minutes to thanks everyone for a massive effort and hard work over Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the Food and Wine Festival.
He said it was a great day for the punters, vendors and is a terrific community event.
The committee especially were thanked for their efforts this year, namely;
David Byfield for rosters
Michael Knight – foodies
Jeremy R for the Wineries
Andy Irvine for the beer and liquor licence
Kevin Moffatt for the trucks/fencing/refrigeration
Hodgy for the entertainment
Nick Leywood for VIP and sponsorship
John Ferguson and Frank Fuller for the money handling
Col Duff - electrics
Geoff Breust – Entry gates and wrist bands
Jo Carswell for online media
David Foster – Printing and signage
Tim for equipment, media and other helpers – South Wagga Apex, Wagga High and Kapooka
Paul Milde – Secretary and picking up the pieces everywhere.
As well as this, a big thankyou to the VRA, who because of the atrocious weather on Friday were there on Saturday to set up, and Sunday to pull down again.
Guest Speaker
Bob Willis introduced Peter Birks.
Peter studied oenology in Australia before venturing off to Spain and Italy for six years to gain industry experience in the world of wine.
This included a Masters in Montpelier, France along with another man from the Hunter – Henscke.
He worked on 4 vintages in Portugal, a couple in France and Italy and some in WA and Tasmania in between, travelling the food and wine path around each country.
He worked at the La Spinetta Winery in Peimonte in Italy, which is a mecca for food and wine, and famous for the Nebbiolo grape.
Peter went on about his father Andrew’s fino sherry, which began 33 years ago, and explained the process of fermenting a Palamino grape wine floray – flor yeast over a liquid, and fine filtering to barrels into a Solera – where the last barrel feeds to the next and so on, as the sherry is drained from the original barrel.
Here is a press release on the Birks Chip Dry Sherry.
Peter was given a vote of thanks by Peter Green who was invited along with the members to sample the sherry.
The Riverina BMW Food and Wine Festival was another highly successful event for Wollundry Rotary.
The weather on Friday morning was a bit scary. However by Friday afternoon the turnaround came and Saturday was perfect. The delay in setup meant Saturday was a long day for all the Rotarians and volunteers, nevertheless it was great to see the thousands of younger people, older people and families coming to enjoy the festival. Click here to see a short slideshow.
Great Weather, Great Turnout, Great Food & Wine Festival
Today our meeting was a vocational visit to Kurrajong Recyclers.
Kurrajong Waratah operates a very large and sophisticated recycling centre in the heart of the city. Very ably managed by Tim Magillicuddy, the centre employs some 65 persons with disabilities and 35 able bodied people.
Kurrajong receives upwards of six trucks per day from Wagga Wagga and three from out of town on average, and each truck holds 500 “wheelie” recycle bins!
At the present moment they can process 8 tonnes per hour and this is going to increase to 10 tonnes with the acquisition of some new equipment.
At the moment they ship around 1000 tonnes of recycled material each month.
The club was split into two large groups and we were taken on a tour of the facility. Firstly we saw the electronic, electrical reclaiming shed. Here old computers, TVs, printers and other household goods are stripped and the plastics, the wiring and the metal are all reclaimed. Electronic parts are also rescued. Some 30 tonnes per month of are sold from this section alone, and they are pleased to say that they can use 98% of the items. Only 2% becomes rubbish.
The glass processing plant was also interesting in that they now can handle 100% of all the glass they receive. The glass is ground to aggregate size and is used extensively in road base and other high impact areas.
Plastics are collected and sent to be re-manufactured by pipe makes and other sources. WASH YOUR OLD MILK CARTONS before you send them in. They get pretty high sitting in the sun.
Paper of course is a big item and we saw bales of paper ready to be loaded and sold to remanufactures to be made into cartons, and sometimes speciality papers. This is a huge part of the business.
Once again our meal was a highly prized barbecue , cooked he way we like it by Michael Knight and his crew, Mal Roberson, Wal Paton and Craig Bromley. Sandra Legg and Michael supplied a great potato bake and salads.
PP Neil Pinto gave us a very interesting talk on a club very different from ours.
The Rotary Club of Dubai Deira is one of four clubs in Dubai. It is part of District 2452 which comprises Lebanon, Cyprus, Jordan, Sudan, Bahrain, UAE, Georgia, Armenia and Palestine
It is named after one of the oldest neighborhoods in Dubai and the main commercial district along Dubai Creek. Deira is a place where tradition and necessity meet. And it is always busy.
It has a membership of 22, mixed gender and varied nationalities.
While the current President is an Egyptian, the Incoming President is a Jordanian.
It meets on a Monday evening on the 33rd floor of on of the the world trade centre buidings.
Meeting fees are 50 Durham. Membership fees are 3000dr joining fee, and 1500dr per year.
Fund raising in Dubai is under strict control and funds for the club are derived from the joining, membership and meeting fees.
Put it into perspective, a coffee at Starbucks costs 4.50dr and a litre of fuel about 1.4dr
Club meetings are conducted like our board meetings and run for about an hour. A light meal is eaten and members then disperse into the bar in small groups to chat and have a quick drink before departing.
During the meeting, they discussed the club presentation at the upcoming District Conference in Jordan. The whole club take this task very seriously as they consider that they are representing their country. Lots of work goes into creating these preparations and they have to be better than those of the other UAE clubs.
Projects fall in 6 areas
Promoting world peace
Fighting disease
Providing clean water
Saving mothers and children
Supporting education
Growing local economies
The club also supports Interact (12 – 18) and Rotaract. It is heavily involved with Toastmasters and uses this connection to help develop the Interact and Rotaract members.
One very interesting project involves providing education to overseas workers. In 2013 the population of Emirates was 9.2 million of which 1.4 million Emirati citizens and 7.8 million expats.The bulk of these are Indian, Pakistani and Bangla. Lots are labourers, unskilled men who come over on their own leaving family behind. Live in labor camps often provided by the companies. This can be beneficial to both parties as often the workers cannot speak English.
As can be seen in the photos it was a perfect day for the Sprout and About.The team was" hard at it" after a hectic set up which saw all tents and trestles used for the 43 sites. Probably the temperatures in the high 30s kept the crowd down a little! An excellent day!
OIC: Hugh Campbell
CO-ORD: Ken Taylor
TEAM:Rob Pearson, Michael Knight, John Ferguson, James Hamilton, James Ross, John Smith, Craig Bromley, David Pyke, Doug Conkey, Rob Nicholson & Son
Wollundry has a strong tradition each year of holding a "Poet's Day" and this year was coordinated by David Benn. David invited along CSU Lecturer and member of the Sunrise Rotary Club, David Gilbey to speak and read some of his poems from his latest publication, "Pachinko Sunrise". Bennie also enlisted a number of members to entertain the meeting with a variety of verse.
David Gilbey read two poems from his new book;
Yokzuna- a poem about Sumo wrestling
Intercultural Communication- a brief summary of Australian colloquialisms through the eyes of a Japanese Exchange student.
John Hawkins read the poem "Leisure" by English poet William Henry Davies.
It was a poem full of irony!
"A poor life this is if, full of care
We have no time to stand and stare"
Paul Milde chose the iconic poem from World War 1 "In Flanders Field" to read to us. The poem was written by a Canadian army surgeon, Lt Colonel John McRae after he had witnessed one of the futile battles on the Western Front in 1915.
The poem was the inspiration for the foundation of the Legacy Clubs of Australia directly after World War 1.
"In Flanders Field the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row
That mark our place
And in the sky
The larks still bravely singing fly"
Rick Priest read to us one of Banjo Paterson immortal works "Clancy of the Overflow"
"Clancy" had a make over with references to the 21st century modes of electronic communication!
Laurie Blowes read appropriately a poem about Australia Day- Smithy's Australia Day by Warren Dakin
"So when you feel disgruntled just remember this rendition,
And never blame this country for the acts of politicians,
Look up and count your blessings when you see our flag unfurled,
And be grateful that you live in the best country in the world."
Doug Sutton reminded us all what it was like growing up in the days of no TV and limited radio when the family made their own entertainment by standing and singing around the piano played by his mother. He read to us the poem "Piano" by the celebrated English author (David Herbert), D.H. Lawrence.
"Softly in the dusk, a woman is singing to me;
Taking me back down the vistas of years, till I see
A child sitting under the piano, in the boom of the tingling strings
And pressing the small poised feet of a mother who smiles as she sings"
Michael Knight read from "The Even More Complete Book of Australian Verse" by well known comedian and TV personality John Clarke.
Clarke adopts the guise of Dylan Thomas writing as Dylan Thompson,"a martyr to the turps, frequently waking in unfamiliar circumstances and attempting to catch the speech rhythms of the sea."
A Child's Christmas at Warrnambool
One Christmas was so like another in those years around the sea town corner now, I can never remember whether it was 106 degrees in 1953 or 103 degrees in 1956. All the Christmases roll into one down the wave-roaring, salt squinting years of yesterboy.
A vote of thanks was given to David Gilbey. He then won the weekly wine draw with a bottle of Dick Smith's "Roosters Ghost"
The launch of David's book "Pachinko Sunset" will be held at Wagga Wagga City Library on 5th March at 2pm.
The announcement of this year's beneficiary was made at the showrooms of Riverina BMW on Friday morning, 12th February.
Chairman of the F&W Committee, Tim Barter announced that the recipient of the profits from this year's festival will be the Wagga Rescue Club which will purchase a new "Jaws Of Life".
The photos show Principal of Riverina BMW, David Kelly, with Wagga Rescue Club Members, Ken Middleton and Mark Whittaker with President Geoff and Chairman Tim.
Several members of Wollundry enjoyed the morning tea and hospitality at the launch, something missed out upon by members of the various Wagga media organisations!
Our exchange student to Denmark, Tayla Crevatin recently sent a report and photos to the club. Sounds like she has settled in well and is enjoying the experience.
Dear Geoff,
I have been getting your newsletters, thankyou.
Sorry, about not send an email to let you know how I am I've been incredibly busy lately (settling in ect.).
I'm doing really well. I recently went to a town near Aarhus (the second biggest city in Copenhagen) for my intro camp week.
It was so much fun we met all of the other exchange students from winter 2016. We had two days with 6 hours of Danish and two day with 3 hours of Danish and 3 hours of culture shock/ homesickness ect.. Then on Thursday which by far was the best day we went into Aarhus and looked at there amazing art gallery ARoS.
My favourite art works there were Boy created by Australian artist and My Rainbow Panorama, which was on top of the museum and showed a 360 degree view of the city out of different colours of glass.
At school I don't understand a lot but it's very different to Australia, which confuses me sometimes. I also go to a language school twice a week with one third of the exchange students in my district, I think there is almost 50 of us!
Now I'm on winter holiday for a week. We are staying at my host family's friends summer house, right by the beach!
It's really beautiful! (But they also have snow on the beach which was pretty confusing!)
President Geoff opened the meeting welcoming Tayla, her Mum Erica, Kat and then guest speaker Phil Hoey.
At the end of his presentation, President Geoff thanked him for his talk, asked for a show of hands by those interested in doing a 2 hour CPR course with Phil in the coming weeks, and then went on to give him a PHF citation.
A photo of Geoff and Phil appeared in the Wednesday edition of the DA as well.
Phil is very generous with his time and money. He is the club's First Aid man at the Food and Wine Festival, and the Gears and Beers. He likes this club too.
Phil Hoey – PHF
Phil Hoey has worked for more than 40 years with the Ambulance Service of NSW. He started volunteering at Cootamundra at 19 (back in 1975) and has served the community Wagga for most of the time since (also having stints at Cowra and Singleton).
He has been teaching first aid for most of his career and also volunteers with the National Stoke Foundation and Kidney Health Australia.
As Wollundry Rotary members would know Phil volunteers with out major Festivals including driving the Gears & Beers trail to help out the many wounded and sore riders of our great Event.
We certainly appreciate your contribution to our community and with that in mind we have chosen to formally recognise your great work.
Rotarians often designate a Paul Harris Fellow as a tribute to a person whose life demonstrates a shared purpose with the objectives of the Rotary Foundation. Today we have the honour and pleasure of recogising Phil Hoey as he becomes a Paul Harris Fellow.
The presentation of Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. It is named for our founder, Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer who started Rotary International with three business associates in 1905.
A world of peace and goodwill comes closer to realty today as Phil becomes a Paul Harris Fellow. It is because of gifts like one made in Phil’s honour that The Rotary Foundation is able to carry out an array of programs that achieve beneficial changes in our world: improved living conditions, increased food production, better education, wider availability of treatment and rehabilitation for sick and disabled, new channels for the flow of international understanding and brighter hopes for peace.
It gives me great pleasure, Phil to present to you the three emblems of appreciation given to a Paul Harris Fellow – certificate, medallion and pin. Please accept our congratulations and sincere thanks, for your commitment to our common goals of world understanding and peace.
Congratulations Phil!
Kat let us know that she has been playing golf - 4 times this week, and has an official handicap at the Country Club. Thanks to Cathy Pyke and Pykie for arranging this for her. Kat is 18 on the 18th, so, a very Happy Birthday for Monday Kat.
Rotary Information - Ken Cook.
HISTORY OF DISTRICT 9700
In 1930 the Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga received their charter and became the first local club in District 76, which included clubs from Sydney, Newcastle, Canberra and Albury
From 1948 to 1951 we became District 29 and from 1951 District 30
With membership growing and the number of clubs increasing, in 1957 we became District 270
In 1977 we became District 970 and it was in 1991 that District 9700 was formed
Steve O’Halloran from the Wagga Wagga club became district governor in 1956 and subsequently served as the first vice president of Rotary International in 1967 – 68
Sgt Session - Peter Clucas.
Peter was chasing members to be responsible for a table of 10 at the up coming Cambodia Ball, of which our club is supporting this year.
Messrs Clucas, Sutton, Barter and Bruest all took up the challenge.
He went on to ask the president to carry the collection tin, as he beat Peter by 4 shots at golf the other day - in the Twomeys.
Mark Hillis invited Peter to become a member a few years ago, so as to bring the average age of Rotary down a few years. Since then, he thinks that the age of members is getting older again - and reminded members to bring someone along to a meeting some day. If not, he suggests the rule of 84 will become the rule of 100 and that makeups will be claimed at funerals.
He fined the board members for the high definition mug shots on screen at the entrance to the Commercial Club and made reference to Crows Feet.
Past Member George Thomas sent this info in before Christmas to share.
Rotary Club of Wollundry Wagga Wagga provided funding to Everyman’s Welfare Service during 2015 to purchase boxes suitable for shipping parcels to troops serving in Afghanistan. These have been received by the troops and they have expressed appreciation for the consideration and the contents. Everyman’s Welfare Service appreciates Rotary’s assistance in making this project possible. The photo of recipients in field kit with their Bushmaster PMVs includes a pack of Tim Tams being held above the National Flag ! (Photo 1)
Photo 2 Troops enjoying the luxury of the comfort parcels.
Photo 3 Everyman Representative Ben Ridley packing the parcels for shipment to Afghanistan.
David Foster, Fr. Paddy Sykes, President Geoff Hamilton
Today's Guest Speaker, Fr. Paddy Sykes was introduced by David Foster who told us that Fr.Paddy was born and raised in Humula NSW. He spent 12 years with Australian Navy as a chaplain and is now the Parish Priest of the Catholic Parish of Our Lady of Fatima South Wagga. It appears the young Paddy was allegedly put on the straight and narrow by our very own
Frank Fuller who was a Sergeant of Police responsible for the Humula district when Paddy was a young boy.
Fr. Paddy was here to deliver a Christmas message and his theme was Goodwill. Drawing on his own experiences of hospitality received, Paddy elaborated on this theme giving examples of people opening their hearts and homes to others.
Because this is Christmas our thoughts turn to the family of Jesus searching for a place to stay in Bethlehem and finding hospitality in a stable. Goodwill is about opening our hearts. lives and mattresses to the person of Christ that we encounter in others.
Fr. Paddy reminded us of the plight of displaced persons who are in need of goodwill, particularly those fleeing the conflict in Syria. He said how proud he is to live in a City which is willing to accept a number of those refugees. He cited the example of the new Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, who has welcomed refugees into his country on behalf of his people. His stance has been one of leadership, generosity and goodwill.
Fr. Paddy said how much he appreciated talking to a different audience. A couple of his parishioners in the audience, Pat Ingram and Jim Gibson were referred to by Paddy as regular listeners to his sermons.
A vote of thanks from our newest member Daniel Byrnes was supported by our members who appreciated Fr.Paddy's words of wisdom at Christmas.
President Geoff opened our meeting with the traditional Rotary Grace and a toast to Queen Elizabeth.
He then welcomed our visitors Phil and Deidre Tome (Kooringal Rotary), Andrew Schmetzer, Kathy Wallace and mother Thea Bowen, Kat Janzon and Tayla Crevatin (Exchange Students).
Geoff drew members' attention to the successful Rotaract meeting which was held in North Wagga. Some seven young people attended and Lawrie Blowes will give a report in his Section of the Bulletin.
Defibrillators are an important project that has been initiated and promoted by Travis Downie. A meeting following our regular meeting is being held to further this very important project.
BURMO
PP John Gray read an email from Burmo which informed members that he has a serious heart condition and is to undergo surgery in January. Members received the news with concern for Burmo and wish him well. Rest assured Burmo we are all behind you and are confident that we will see you return renewed in 2016.
John also presented, on behalf of Burmo, a copy of Sr. Trish Franklin's Biography to four Past Presidents: Michael Knight, Neil Pinto, John Egan and Doug Sutton. The recipients had supported Burmo's efforts to raise funds for a state of the art Kindergarten in Viet Nam. The school was built for Sr Trish with money from Rotary and Viet Nam Veteran's Association. The four recipients were surprised and delighted with Burmo's thoughtful gesture.
Doug Sutton, Michael Knight, John Gray, John Egan, Neil Pinto with a copy of Sr. Trish's Autobiography.
SPROUT AND ABOUT MARKET
Photo courtesy of Clive Reithmuller (age 6). L - R Andy Irvine, Michael Knight, Jeremy Reithmuller, Doug Sutton, Geoff Breust, Bob Willis, Geoff Hamilton, James Ross, Malcolm Robertson, Greg O'Hare, Pat Ingram, Rob Pearson.
Report as delivered by Ken Taylor
Team: OIC: Andy Irvine; Doug Sutton; Ken Taylor (late blow-in to help shake down stall-holders); Pat Ingram; Bruce Willis’ brother Bob; James Ross; Greg O’Hare; Geoff Bruest; Geoff Hamilton; Michael Knight; Rob Pearson; Malcolm Robertson and Jeremy Reithmuller. May have been quicker to read out club members who didn’t attend! Very able team who did a fantastic job.
And Clive at the end (I have no idea what that means so I apologise).
There were 42 stalls plus Art on the Levee have been brought in and occupied the middle of the U-shaped lawn area. Two stalls were double sites; the BBQ was a paying stall-holder now that Apex were running it; they sold out of 144 bacon & egg rolls at $10 a pop plus 3 dozen sausages so I’m guessing they were pretty happy.
Seven stalls were pre-paid so you can factor that in to your mental tally of what we got on the day.
Andy juggled the layout a bit and put a few stalls into the middle which I thought worked really well, though if he’d suggested it I would have said don’t do it. Wrong again, Taylor. The stalls were varied and interesting and the presentation was appreciated by punters and stall-holders alike. The art folk looked really good there even though it was only one member exhibiting, but others are now jealous and will join her next month.
Patronage was a bit on the light side with several other markets operating but regulars like the pistachios, Coffee, Adelong Fresh, Junee Licorice did very well while some might be getting a bit tired after 15 years.
This market was actually the 15th anniversary market by the way! Most stall-holders were happy with the relaunch though one chap said he was finished with us.
Andy recommends: we have Facebook page, SMS list, website and advertising in the public notices in the DA last week, but we need to figure out how to encourage patronage, and any help would be appreciated.
MONEY! Stalls: $1835
Donations: $107.10
For: total: $1942.10
SERGEANT SESSION
Today's Sergeant was John Gray and he was in his usual scintillating form extracting money from all and sundry. Michael Georgiou was his firs target and so carried the fine box. Daniel Burns and Ken Taylor were quickly targeted as was Jim Gibson for being a wuss and not playing cricket, he had only one injury compare to the multiple injuries carried by most of the players. Craig Bromley was fined for turning up and Pat Ingram and Wal Paton for our barbecue not being as excellent as the one at Sprout and About. Col Duff, David Benn, Paul Milde were fined for being Rotaractors. John Egan and Paul Murray for being in the Australian American Association.
The rest of us were fined for laughing at the Chinese philosopher Lao Chiu's observation that problems can be solved without violence if one has the will. For example imagine a mosquito landing on a testicle.
Food and Wine Festival
Nick Leywood is urging members to seek sponsorships for the Food and Wine Festival. He placed forms on the tables for members to respond.
PRESENTATION TO PHILIP AND DEIDRE TOME (KOORINGAL ROTARY)
Deidre and Philip Tome From Kooringal Rotary receiving a cheque from PP John Ferguson
So impressed was PP John Ferguson with the Youth Project undertaken by Deidre and Philip that he decided to donate to their club, the interest proceeds from our Community Account for his year as President.
The project was to support a young indigenous student at Mt Austin High school who had to overcome the most difficult family circumstances to further her education. With the assistance of Kooringal Rotary and Phil and Deidre in particular, she was able to achieve a student exchange to Belgium. While in Belgium she won an essay competition which enabled her to deliver a speech at the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres on Anzac day in front of Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and the New Zealand Foreign Minister. Her name is Courtney Smith and I am sure we will hear more of her when she returns to further her studies. A nursing career via CSU is her aim.
This is one of the best stories that I have heard this year.
MEMBER UPDATE
GERRY GERLACH
Called on late in the meeting, Gerry did a good job to bring us up to date in a short space of time.
Gerry told us that he came to Wagga with his wife Angie just eight years ago and joined our Club almost immediately. He had spent the previous 15 years in Sydney as a Business Consultant. He and Angie had had enough of the rat race in Sydney and settled on Wagga as a good regional centre to break into business. He loves Wagga and has no intention of leaving.
Born in 1949 in Holland, Gerry shares a birthday with Adolf Hitler. He is a twin and one of four children. His mother was an Adelaide socialite who met his father in 1940 while his father was in the Dutch Navy. They returned to Holland but decided to migrate to Australia in 1950.
Gerry met Angie at a Picnic Race Meeting and it was love at first sight. They have been married for almost forty years and have three children who all live in Sydney. Gerry likes to play golf and is a regular at the Country Club and participates with Wollundry in the Twomey Patterson summer comp.
VISITORS AND ATTENDANCE
Kathy Wallace, Thea Bowen, Darren Wallace, Kat Janzon, Tayla Crevatin
Andrew Schmetzer (Guest of Travis Downie)
ATTENDANCE
There were forty two members attended today's meeting.
MAKEUPS
John Smith,
APOLOGIES
G. Burmeister, G. Conkey, D. Conkey, K. Cook, M. Eldridge, J. Flynn, F. Fuller, P. Green, D. Hodge, J. Ireland, A. Irvine, P. MacKinnon, J. Mason, S. McCoy, R. Nicholson, R. Pearson, J. Ross, D. Wishart.
Today's guest speaker was Jo Carlisle and she was introduced by Tim Barter, chairman of two of our major fund raising committees. Jo is a Human Resources Teacher and Adviser and her talk today was on Social Media Marketing. Tim informed us that Jo works at TAFE and CSU and helps enormously with our Food and Wine Festival and the Gears and Beers event.
Jo used a Power Point Presentation to support her talk which revealed that there are many platforms to engage with online. For example, YouTube, Instagram, Linked-In, Facebook, Twitter are some of the most recognised. Surprisingly, 70 Percent of all adults in Australia use Social Media to Publish, share information, to network and to discuss ideas.
With our Gears and Beers event the No 1 social media usage was via Facebook 93%. Linked In was the next most frequently used.
Facebook has 14 million users in Australia with a new person joining every 6 seconds.
The average time spent per person on Social Media each day in Australia is 2.1 hours. There are 25,000 Facebook users in Wagga.
The Food and Wine Festival used Facebook, Wollundry Rotary Website, Instagram and Mailchimp. The Gears and Beers Festival used Facebook, Instagram and the Website.
The benefits to our Club are that these media reach large numbers at low cost. The messages are targeted and they are traceable and measurable. The Club benefits from the excellent Community engagement.
Another feature of Facebook that was pointed out by Jo is the facility for people to make donations through Facebook. This tool could be useful at some future date.
The final point Jo made was that Sponsors benefited greatly by the exposure through Social Media. There were 1500 hits and 400 video viewings for our major Sponsor Riverina BMW.
Members questions reflected the keen interest of the audience. Jo was then thanked on behalf of the club by PP Phil McIntosh.
Phil said that Jo's presentation was so relevant for our Club and he thanked her for all the time and effort she has put into the Food and Wine Festival and the Gears and Beers event, turning up to all the meetings, understanding them so well and creating the media pages for us. Members enthusiastically supported his vote of thanks.
PP Doug Sutton spoke today on the Rotary Foundation.
His f rst point is that the Foundation is not Rotary international, but it is owned and operated by RI.
The Foundation seeks to do good in the world by partnering with Rotary Clubs all around the woorld in sustainable projects.
A sustainable project is one that will keep going long after the Rotarians have finished establishing it. It is therefore essential that there is expertise within the benefiting community to maintain any equipment, and to use it effectively.
It is of little value for example to supply a Dialysis machine if there are no qualified nurses to operate the unit.
A solar pump on the other hand can be installed and run for years without much maintenance.
There are six areas of focus that the Foundation will support.
These are
Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution.
Disease Prevention and Treatment,
Water and Sanitation,
Maternal and Child Health Care,
Basic Education and Literacy,
Economic and Community Development
Global grants support large international activities that have sustainable, measurable outcomes in one or more of the areas of focus. Rotarians create their own projects and carry them out.
There are also District grants which fund smaller, short-term activities that address needs in your community and communities worldwide. Each Rotary district gets to choose which projects it will fund with these grants. District Grants are made for any worthwhile project .
The whole idea of the Foundation is to have a pool of money available for projects where Rotarians become involved.
Doug also mentioned the Centurion Club where Rotarians pledge $100 each year to the Foundation. It is now on line here
Doug was thanked by Richard Rossiter, a newer member who like many of us had only a vague idea of the Foundation and what it achieves, but was now keen to learn more.
Our speaker on Tuesday was Dr Damian Candusso. Damian was introduced by John Ferguson. Damian is a Sound Designer. He explained what a Sound Designer does, and that is, to design sound effects. He noted that sound is one of the first senses we experience. In the womb we hear sounds. He showed us some of his motion picture work and explained how he captures sound wherever he can.
Damian is an international multi-award winning sound designer and senior CSU lecturer with over 17 years of industry experience in film, television, animation, games, music and installation art.
Damian has been nominated for three Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) Golden Reel Awards, he has worked on several Australian Film Institute (AFI) and Independent Film (IF) Award winning films, as well as winning many Australian Screen Sound Guild (ASSG) awards. In 2010 Damian was awarded the City of Los Angeles Certificate of Congratulations and in 2002, Damian received the Centenary Medal for Contribution to Australian Culture for his work in the Australian film industry. This was awarded by the Commonwealth of Australia, on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II.
Damian's feature film work includes: The Lego Movie, The Great Gatsby, George Miller's Happy Feet 2, the James Cameron produced Sanctum, Zac Snyder's The Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ha'Hoole the Spierig Bros. film Daybreakers, Baz Luhrmann's Australia, and the 79th Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature Film, Happy Feet. Damian has also worked on over 150 episodes of television including the Henson produced US television sci-fi series Farscape. Damian has worked with many acclaimed actors including: Nicole Kidman, Heath Leger, Abbi Cornish, Brian Brown, Claudia Black and Hugh Keays-Byrne.
Damian was given a vote of thanks by Peter MacKinnon.
Today's guest speaker was our exchange student Kat Janzon. She was introduced by Darren Wallace.
Kat has been a somewhat reluctant speaker but today she was excellent. Kat is from Sweden and she speaks English exceptionally well. This language skill is shared by nine out of ten of her fellow countrymen and women. Surprisingly Swedish was only declared the national language in 2009. She is also an exceptional gymnast.
Sweden, Kat told us, is the fourth largest country in Europe but is one seventeenth the size of Australia. It has a population of 9.5 million, 2.5 million of whom live in the Capital, Stockholm. The currency of Sweden is the Kronor, not the Euro, although Sweden is a member of the EU.
Sweden enjoys a parliamentary democracy with a Ruling Monarch Karl Gustav as Head of State.
Some familiar companies from Sweden include Volvo, Scania, Tetra Pak and Skype.
The temperature can fall as low as - 40c in winter and reach + 32 c in Summer. The sun is absent for 32 days in Winter and there is twenty four hour daylight for 56 days in Summer.
Sweden is famous for Smorgas Boards, Ice Hotel, Northern Lights and has a spot where you can stand in three countries at the same time.
The Nobel Prize was a Swedish initiative and is presented each year in Stockholm.
Kat's community is a city called Taby (is she therefore a Taby Kat?)
Taby has a population of 67,000 and has the biggest shopping mall in Sweden. It is on the outskirts of Stockholm. Kat described her Dad as normal "although he runs marathons". Her mum Christina and siblings are very special. Kat has travelled widely with her family as demonstrated by the photos she showed us.
Kat answered a number of questions and President Geoff thanked her for a marvelous speech and reminded members that they should invite Kat to family dinners and outings whenever possible.
As Past District Governor, John Egan explained to the meeting Rotary Hat Day was raising money this year to research into Mental Health. Prizes for the best head attire and a wine raffle raised $520.
It is indeed the day that every cross dresser in the club looks forward to, and for every member to delve into his child's dress up box or his partner's wardrobe and find some outlandish piece of head gear. Fortunately it only happens once a year and much to the relief of the staff at the Commercial Club!
Rob Nicholson was the winner for the second consecutive year!
What a claim to fame Rob!!!!! He was supported by two other "well known animals" of the club!
Davy Crockett and Lawrence of Arabia (I think) with Kat.
A "Honey Of A Man", A Men's Shed Cossack, The "Treasurer"!
Past President Phil McIntosh is shown attending the Saturday Farmers Markets with the Rapha H-Van. Rapha Performance Roadwear has loaned the van to the Gears and Beers Festival for the upcoming Cycling, Craft Beer and Cider Festival to be held at the Victory Memorial Gardens on October 4th. This unique H Van will be in Wagga for the next 3 weeks to promote the festival.
In the dark - the power went off just before the 12:30pm gong.
The club was informed by Col Mercer of his resignation from the club. He says that over the 23 years of membership with the club that he has always enjoyed the mate-ship and regards Wollundry as one of the premium clubs in Wagga Wagga.
With 2 daughters in Brisbane, his wife would like to be able to spend more time traveling to see them. His son has recently returned from a long stint in Darwin, and will be choosing to live in Melbourne, or stay put.
He says that it has been both a pleasure and and honour to be a member and will miss us.
President Geoff presented Col with a Certificate of Appreciation.
Paul Murray gave us an update on the club website.
When you go to the Club History Tab, you can then choose Past Presidents, Photos, Bulletins/Changeover report etc.
He showed us some of the beaut photos of some members some 30 years ago. They are worth a look.
Phillip Tome dropped in to announce the 6th Royce Abbey Oration and Luncheon Guest as Steven Mark.
The topic is Racism in the 21st Century - the New Tribalism.
Peter MacKinnon asked Nick Leywood to carry the Money Collection Container.
Late comers - Pat Ingram and Neil Pinto was struggling in to the rom, only to discover that he wasn't late at all.
A Manna from Heaven in that President Geoff had not paid for his lunch today.
John Gray made a comment about that, and you had to be there to appreciate it.
Peter had suffered a Mia Culpa for thinking that he was supposed to be on the markets, but turned out that upon reading the bulletin that he was sgt.
He went on to fine members on detail from last weeks bulletin.
Club equipment bought and available to members - a printer living with Laurie Blowes
Date for the Blokes Biggest Lunch coming up - whoops, already been on $5 from the sgt,
How long President Geoff has been a member of the club - 13 years.
He then fined all those who had not paid fees yet, including himself - another $5
David Benn cross fined Phil McIntosh who's daughter has been named in the training squad for Rugby 7's
Benny then fined himself for wondering if David Wishard was still waiting at the bus stop, where they were supposed to meet for lunch today.
Geoff Bruest fined John Smith for getting 04:30 confused, resulting in coming home 12 hours late from Dubai last week.
It was announced that next weeks speaker is Stephen McCreedy from Smith Family.
Other announcements - Wollundry Grove Oil taste day.
Children's Medical Research Fair.
Kat Janzon, our Exchange Student from Sweden reported a quick trip to Sydney with the Pykes.
Pictured here with Terry Irvine, visiting Wagga Wagga for a couple of nights.
August is membership month in the Rotary Calendar and I would encourage all members to consider asking a friend along to 'view what we do'. If you enjoy your time at Rotary then please remember that someone else may also like to contribute. Just as a friend of yours invited you along, please consider doing the same. Set your goal at asking just one colleague along for a visit during the year!
Phil McIntosh and his team are doing a fantastic job with the planning of the Gears & Beers festival. Please add your name to the roster to help out in the first weekend of October. This Festival has the potential to be even bigger than the Food & Wine and will certainly be a major fund raiser for our Club.
Barry was the chief cheese maker and lecturer at Charles Sturt University's excellent facility before they chose to close this part of the plan. They have done this with several courses in recent times which is great cause for alarm.
However, when one door closes......
Barry along with his son Anton gave us a wonderful example of what can be done. Coolamon Shire has swung in behind them and they are developing a Cheese Education and Recreation centre right in the heart of the town of Coolamon.
Anton with his background in hospitality is aiming to set up a tourist destination, serving fine coffee, fine cheeses and fine food.
They will have it set up so that tourists will be able to experience the manufacturing processes, and get the link between cows, milk and fungi!
The Board of Directors includes Neil Druce, who is behind the extremely successful Licorice Factory. Neil is also establishing a Whisky Distillery in Corowa. so there will be a vey great emphasis on this area being a fresh processed food area.
They have used Cloud Funding and have raised $50000 so far from investors.
The process is well on the way, and could well be open early next year.
Katarina Janzon, our new International Rotary Exchange Student from Sweden has arrived.
A large contingent of members, wives and host parents met an exhausted Katarina at Wagga Airport last week after a mammoth flight of over 40 hours. Katarina must have thought she'd arrived at the end of the earth.
Katarina gave a short address and impressed with her perfect English. She told us that she is happy to be here and has a sister who was a Rotary Exchange student to China.
Katarina is pictured above with Cathy Pyke who together with David will be her first host parents.
A very big welcome to you Katarina and there is no doubt you will receive the same wonderful hospitality as previous exchange students have experienced.
Sally Tanner was announced as our Wollundry Rotary Scholarship winner for 2015. Sally attended our meeting with her parents Lindsay and Ali Tanner. PP John Ireland introduced Sally on behalf of the Scholarship Committee.
Sally told members how appreciative she is receiving the scholarship of $6,000 over three years, as it will assist greatly with her costs, especially books and enable her to fully immerse herself in life at CSU.
Born in 1996 to parents who are themselves graduates of CSU, Sally has achieved much in her short life. A keen dancer, Sally has also represented Wagga in Touch Football and Netball. In the recent University Games her Netball team came second. She only met her fellow members the night before their first game. From these games she has been selected to represent CSU in inter Uni Competition.
Sally has represented Wagga as the Youth Representative to Nordlingen, our German sister City. For her this was a cultural awakening that exposed her to other ways of thinking and other possibilities. She is now a member of the Wagga Sister City Committee. In January she was recognised as the Young Citizen of the Year for Wagga.
Sally will be studying for he Bachelor of Science Degree majoring in Microbiology.
Our Guest speaker at Tuesdays meeting was Dr Matteo Carlino, recipient of the Gordon Braid Scholarship and the Australian Rotary Health Scholarship. Dr Carlino was introduced by John Ferguson.
Dr Carlino is a specialist Clinical Oncologist and he spoke of the drastic changes that have taken place over the last five years in Melanoma research. He told us of his first experiences with recording the reactions of patients to a new experimental drug. Well into 50 to 60 percent of the patients showed improvements. With many of the patients it was short lived but in limited numbers the improvement was ongoing. His challenge was to determine why the drugs stopped working, and that was when the the Gordon Braid Scholarship and the Australian Rotary Health Scgholarship began to support the research.
He said he had a unique group of engaged patients. They were committed to the research and would report judiciously when a new lump would appear and ask, 'what do you want to do with it', not feeling sorry for themselves, but wanting to make a contribution. He took their lumps and grew them in laboratory dishes. Working with the patients and at the same time growing their lumps in the laboratory, gave him a great insight into what was happening when the drug was working and what was happening when it stopped working. This allowed him to administer additional drugs and monitor the effect. The resulting research has brought the drug from only available in two hospitals in 2010 to today being on the government funded prescriptions list (PBS) and extended the patient beneficial working time from 6 to 9 months.
They are now at the stage where they can take patients cancer samples and grow them in the laboratory and test which combination of drugs works best. He regularly visits the patients in the clinic and then goes back to the laboratory and looks through a microscope at their cancers. Their cancers have different personalities, some grow fast, some grow slow. He said that these 10 or 12 individual patients, have done more for melanoma research than they could have ever imagined.
Of all the people who get incurable cancer, one in five hundred simply get well. For some reason there bodies immune system defeats it. Consequently, Matt is now involved in research on how to manipulate peoples immune system to control cancers. This research has contributed to the release of a new drug onto the PBS referred to as the Ron Walker drug. Ron Walker was the first patient to take this combination of tablets and immune drugs, and his cancer has been under control for three years.
Dr Carlino took several questions and was given a vote of thanks by Mark Hillis.
Tuesdays meeting was the Annual Changeover dinner bringing to a close a very successful year for outgoing President John Ferguson. Pictured above are Past President John Ferguson and newly inducted 2015-16 Wollundry President Geoff Hamilton
The evening was a well attended event, with live music, an exceptional meal, a Rotarian of the Year award and two Paul Harris Fellows awarded. The Rotarian of the Year was awarded to Tim Barter. (see above photo)
The PHF's were presented to Past President Andrew Irvine, and Carolyn Murray. See Photos above and below.
Our Exchange student Franzie was presented with an award upon the completing of her excellent year.
The members were entertained by beautiful music (see above) provided by Caleb and Esther Wong. Peter Clucas did a great job as MC for the evening.(see photo below)
Tuesdays meeting was the Annual Changeover dinner bringing to a close a very successful year for outgoing President John Ferguson. Pictured above are Past President John Ferguson and newly inducted 2015-16 Wollundry President Geoff Hamilton. More photos of the evening have been posted on a Changeover photo album. Many thanks to John Egan for all his excellent photographs.
The evening was a well attended event, with live music, an exceptional meal, a Rotarian of the Year award and two Paul Harris Fellows awarded. The Rotarian of the Year was awarded to Tim Barter. (see above photo)
The PHF's were presented to Past President Andrew Irvine, and Carolyn Murray. See Photos above and below.
Our Exchange student Franzie was presented with an award upon the completing of her excellent year.
The members were entertained by beautiful music (see above) provided by Caleb and Esther Wong. Peter Clucas did a great job as MC for the evening.(see photo below)
Jan Roberts, from Wagga Women's Health Centre accepts a cheque from President John. This represents the major beneficary's share of the proceeds from this years Food and Wine Festival, held in March. Stephen Hodgson, one of the principals of Riverina BMW, who sponsor our event was on hand to support John in recognising the outstanding work of the Wagga Women's Health Centre, and the success of the festival.
Richard Braid, Graham Burmeister, Ken Cook, Travis Downie, Alan Eldridge, Michael Eldridge, Greg Goldspink, David Hodge, John Ireland, Andrew Irvine, John Mason, Stephen McCoy, Phil Macintosh, Colin Mercer, Paul Murray, Robert Nicholson, Kerry Pascoe, Robert Pearson, Jeremy Reithmuller, Richard Rossiter, Bruce Spinks, Doug Sutton.
Analysis of Behaviour and eating patterns:
At todays meeting:
40 Rotarians ate a full meal.
00 Rotarians consumed a bun
03 Rotarians Abstained.
22 Rotarians Apologised
65 Rotarians accounted for out of 71 - not as good as last week.
We all knew the smiling new manager at Proway - but most were suprised to see Paul in this corporate outfit. Things fell into place even more when we were told that the Chairman of the Board, and a significant investor was one of our club members, the incoming President, no less!!
Wollundry Rotary is now so involved in Catering that we have established our own egg ring manufacturing facility. This has proven valuable at Farmers Markets. Any member with experience in animal husbandry and nutrition in the pig industry is urged to drop a resume in to Neil Pinto.
Next Weeks Meeting is a Vocational Visit to Proway, operating at Bomen to manufacture livestock handling equipment. They are located on the corner of Bomen Road and Lewington Street, and if you get to the saleyards - you have gone too far.
Could it be only 23 years ago? David Benn, Colin Butt, Rick Priest, John Smith, Ken Cook and Jack Morgan of Kooringal Rotary about to go to Manus Island.
David Benn introduced Ken Cook, Rick Priest & John Smith and their journey, taken along with Colin Butt and Jack Morgan of Kooringal Rotary, twenty-three years ago. They went to Manus Island to complete a school building which had been started by other Rotarians and required the fimal securing of the building to act as a girls' dormitory. Their voyage was from another era almost; fireworks in baggage and photo's of a group of younger men who struck a similarity with those we know but who seemed in some cases only half the men we know now.
The villagers on the island had little of what we consider necessary; the school was to be an important part of development and education. In the process the team also repaired water supply and did other work in the area for the groups they were assisting. They had guided tours around Moresby, unsafe as it was, with military assistance due to their connections with locals who had been in Wagga and befriended there. On Manus, a quite remote and hard-to-get-to place, they were greeted as friends and received as they gave. The gratitude of the people was humbling and the work of our group was all the more important for it.
They had trips into the forest, seeing all manner of jungle exotica. They also came across some of the many war relics; Benny still has a Japanese memento he picked from the ground against the advice of his guides, who scattered when he strated prising something from the earth. They were certainly more wary of war relics and their propensity to do harm, but Benny got his souvenier.
The journey itself was a big part of their story and their memories; the issues with power and water at the village merely side-lines to the bigger picture of helping a community with little to offer but their own generous hospitality.
All the photo's of this story, plus some more, appear on the website under the photo albums section.
Wollundry Rotary was well represented at the 9700 District Conference in Cowra. The Saturday evening dinner had a Hawaiian theme. Pictured in front on the floor, John Egan, Geoff Hamilton, Jan Hamilton. Seated from left , Wendy Conkey, Phil McIntosh, Maria Egan, Michael Knight, Geoff Breust. Standing, Paul Murray, Carolyn Murray, Franzie Treber, John Ferguson, Judy Ferguson and Doug Conkey. To view more photos click here.
Wollundry Well Represented at 9700 District Conference in Cowra
No introduction was required for Christine Hillis and Cathy Wallace who were today's guest speakers. Both Rotary wives, they became involved in raising funds for the project Creating Hope in Cambodia over four years ago. So far they have raised $200,000 through their August Ball.
The funds raised have helped to build a new school, accommodation and provide ante-natal and eye clinics.
The inspiration for Creating Hope in Cambodia came from Wagga woman Kim Ellings. Cathy and Christine made a second trip last August, as they wanted to make a movie, to show what has been done with the monies raised in Wagga. They said it does give a sanitised version of the conditions in Cambodia, but nevertheless it gives a better understanding of just how much has been achieved.
There are three schools on the outskirts of Phnom Penh: TLC, Praesor and Light of Hope. Our funds have built an entire school which conducts a morning and afternoon session for 120 children.
Cambodia is very poor. It has suffered from the holocaust of the Pol Pot regime. The population was decimated but has now grown back to 15 million, of whom 20% live below the poverty line earning less that $1.20 per day. Money goes a long way in Cambodia.
Another project is the Dump School. This was conducted by an old man who used his home each day as a school. He would clear out his belongings and bring in rudimentary furniture so that the children who lived on the nearby dump could learn. $600 was donated to this man and he was able to purchase a computer and put in shelving so that he did not have to move his belongings in and out each day.
It is proposed to build a new school at a cost of $28,000 for each section. Total cost wil lbe about $100,000 and this will be the goal of this year's August fund raiser.
So far there are three schools and facilities built through Wagga fundraising, including one in 2011 at the Slaughterhouse Village. They had no running water, the people lived next to an abbatoir with an appalling smell, in houses made from scrap timber and inadequate covering. The children were undernourished. $100,000 was raised in Wagga and a school and houses were built.
Christine and Cathy played the short film and it was evident from the faces of the children just how much this project has achieved. It has been literally life changing and all those involved in Creating Hope in Cambodia can be rightfully proud of their achievements.
Sponsors can donate as little as $45 per month to sponsor a child in one of the schools and this goes such a long way when $2 per day income puts someone above the poverty line.
Our guest speakers are looking for a partnership vehicle to further the work in Cambodia and Rotary is in an ideal position to pursue this via Rotary Clubs in Cambodia.
A vote of thanks was proposed by Pat Ingram who congratulated Cathy and Christine. He said the work that their committee has done has been inspiring and the benefits to the children and people of Cambodia, especially through education, are outstanding. Members showed their support with warm applause.
Background to this story is provided by an article In the Daily Advertiser and is reproduced here courtesy of our Newspaper.
"Inspiring Kim gets nod for charity work" by Caleb Taylor Mar 6 2013 9am
Photo Courtesy Les Smith Daily Advertiser
THE tragic death of her cousin Tarsha nearly five years ago was the catalyst that forged a new path for Kim Ellings - a path which has led her to being nominated for this year's Rotary NSW Inspirational Woman of the Year Award.
Ms Ellings, who has lived in Wagga for the past 13 years, knew she wanted to honour her cousin's memory, but she wasn't sure how she would go about it.
It wasn't until a trip to Cambodia with her family that she got the idea to build a school and, after much fund-raising, Tarsha's Legacy Centre was opened a year later, offering an education to children born into slums.
"I knew I couldn't let anyone forget her name," Ms Ellings said.
"And I wanted to create something with integrity; a school that would offer an education to children who would otherwise go without one."
The experience made her acutely aware of the poverty endured by millions of Cambodians, prompting her to found charity Creating Hope in Cambodia.
The relief organisation aims to provide shelter, education, access to safe drinking water and sanitation services to slum dwellers.
Ms Ellings said while she was humbled by the nomination, she believed it was shared by the community and the charity's 10 committee members.
"It's great to be recognised, but I share this with everyone who has donated to us and the committee members who work tirelessly for the charity," Ms Ellings said.
Through fund-raising efforts, the charity has recently built 24 homes for families who were living in a slum under an abattoir.
Its latest project is building two medical centres, which will offer Cambodians free healthcare services.
As part of her work, Ms Ellings doesn't draw an income from the charity, saying she believed it would compromise its values, preferring to ensure donors know their money is going directly to the people of Cambodia.
Ms Ellings was nominated by the Sunrise Rotary Club of Wagga and will make her way to Sydney for the awards dinner on March 8.
Ms Ellings said it was a quote she found in Tarsha's bible that motivated her through any challenges she's faced.
"The quote said 'life's too short not to live for something bigger'," Ms Ellings said.
President John Ferguson, Larraine Hill and DG David Kennedy.
This was held last Sunday at 11 am in the Victory Memorial Gardens. Over 200 people attended and awards were presented to each of the High Schools along with nominated persons from each Rotary Club as well as Wagga City Council.
As always the candidates were outstanding, but this year our nominee Larraine Hill not only received the Wollundry Rotary Award but also The Peter and Helen Walsh Memorial Award for her outstanding but understated contribution over many years to many charities and schools. PDG John Egan nominated Larraine and below is the citation for her nomination.
Larraine Hill is a Mother and Grandmother who has run a cake stall over many years to raise funds for various charities. She has done so for no financial reward. Her funds have provided assistance for various junior sporting groups. She has worked for the Northcott Society fund raising during the Miss Wagga Wagga Quest. She spent 21 years on the board of The Rules Club. She was Secretary for Turvey Park Seniors for 30 years. She spent 10 years on the committee of the Junior League and Australian Rules Riverina Umpires.
Larraine reintroduced the Fetes to Sacred Heart School when she was President of the Auxiliary and raised $15,000 in the first year. She is currently working with the Aimee St Clair Trust Committee raising funds for the support of melanoma victims.
Larraine flies below the radar but is often involved in charity efforts behind the scenes. She is typical of a band of people who work for various charities in our city and yet get little official recognition. She is outstanding in that she is involved across a wide spectrum, and has put herself out so often. Her cake stall, come rain hail or shine, raised a steady income stream which she passed on to the organisations she was targeting. I thoroughly recommend her for the Peace Awards.
John Egan, Rotary Club of Wollundry, 10th Feb 2015
Wollundry Rotary Members congratulate Larraine on her well deserved recognition!
John Glassford and PDG Fred Loneragan spoke at Tuesdays meeting introducing members to an exciting opportunity to travel with them and climb Mt Kenya. The climb starts April 20th. Past Rotary International President Bill Boyd is patron for the climb. John made the following points regarding the climb:
Joint Rotary Club Of Coolamon and Wagga Wagga Sunrise Project
Rotary Registered and insured (RAWCS)
Rotary District 9700 Support
The trip will cater to all levels of climbers.
Team 1 Experienced climbers to attempt Batian
Team 2 Hikers and some climbing to Point Lenana
Team 3 the Safari or the Gin and Tonic Team.
All three teams will travel to Mount Kenya ready for the climb on Monday 20th April. All three teams meet at Lewa on Monday 27th April. They will make a day visit to Oloimugi traditional Maasai village.
The adventure concludes on May 4th - 7th 2015, in Cape Town with the Hout Bay Rotary club, Coolamons twin centennial club.
The beneficiaries of the Mount Kenya 2015 climb include:
Coolamon House Comfort Boxes
Education in Kenya, Mathare, Nakuru, Oloimugi
Anzac War Widows and Dependents
John said “The reason I am climbing Mount Kenya the last of a trilogy for me personally, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mountains of the Moon in Uganda and now Mount Kenya in Kenya. My Father migrated to Kenya from New Zealand in 1919 after serving at Gallipoli and the Western Front as an ANZAC. I could see Mount Kenya every day from my bed room. I am doing it to honour my Father and to raise funds for our beneficiaries.”
John showed the club some striking photographs of endangered animals including a hugh elephant with enormous tusks called Big Tim.
He also displayed a photo of Gerenuks. A Gerenuk is a favourite but rare antelope with a neck like a giraffe and they stand on their hind legs to get to the best vegetation. See photo at left.
Their target is $250,000. They hope to achieve their target by encouraging commitments of a certain number of cents per metre climbed. Mount Kenya Is 5,200 Metres High, and sponsors are needed as follows:
Bronze 1 cent per metre $52.00
Silver 2cents per metre $104.00
Gold 10 cents per metre $520.00
Platinum 100 cents per metre $5,200.00
John also informed the author that his ponytail is for sale for a $100,000 donation. The author replied that it looks good on his head.
John and Fred were given a vote of thanks by Doug Sutton.
Denise opened her presentation by telling us that walking into our meetings was like walking into a Lions Den - was she confused about which Service Club she was attending? She knew better, and explained that Wollundry was her first contact with Rotary, and she appreciated the inclusion as a Family member during those days.
Denise was first diagnosed with Breast Cancer 25 years ago, and became involved with Dragons Abreast as a remedial exercise regime to promote a healthy lifestyle and to prevent reoccurence. She had a high profile within the group when Wollundry Rotary provided assistance to purchase their first boat, which was named "Wollundry" in recognition of our help. Bidgee Dragons Abreast has subsequently acquired another boat, a smaller vessel crewed by ten paddlers, and named Bidgee.
The dilemma that the group currently face is that they have no premises to call their own - they have a container for the original boat, on borrowed time on a boat club carpark, difficult ands dangerous to access, and the smaller boat is stored in a sailing club shed, with no guarantee of continued tenancy. Council have been slow to respond, but now are on side, and wading through the lake of regulation and procedure that has to be dealt with. The location map below shows where the shed could go, but with a project cost of $30 000, and only $10 000 raised so far, there is still some pushing dragon boats uphill still to be considered.
Our Guest Speaker today was PDG John Egan who spoke on the Digital Revolution in Photography.
As a practicing photographer for some 25 years he has seen the industry go from film to electronic in very rapid time, and has ridden the wave of change. John explained that really the only thing that has changed is the capture. The rest of the camera controls work in exactly the same way. But the digital signal that replaces film can easily be handled to give some amazing results; results that would have been very time consuming using film, if not impossible.
Original photographs are easily modified to change the feel and even the colour of the image. We were introduced to some imaging programmes, but particularly Picasa which is a free Google programme (app) and very very useful. As well we saw examples from Photoshop which is the most widely used imaging programme used by photographers.
John also explained a few ways to get better shots with a camera phone . These are becoming more and more sophisticated and are actually the most popular cameras in the world are in 'phones.
John was thanked by PP Paul Murray, who is also a very skillful user of Photoshop.
Jeremy opened with the leading questions about whether our kids or grandkids were fed, clothed and shod from the family. Sadly, not all kids in our area are. Not far from where we likely travel each day, unseen by us are families in crisis and kids are being neglected. They are without role models and mentors, and this is where Ignite fits in.
In days gone by there was always a sense of community and safety, with role models and guiding figures to lead us through. Not now however. Nationally, four out of five kids complete school; that means one in five, or 20%, do not. For Aboriginal kids it is one out of every two. We do not see these kids and their families, but Ignite now have trained over 100 mentors to assist, with over 30 kids part of the program at this stage.
Think about volunteering as a mentor, or just donating some time or resources; visit their website. http://www.ignitementor.com.au/
Adam told of setting the service up; being surprised by the negative attitudes to start with. But he recalled the words of Ronald Reagan:
"We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone."
Ignite operates along with Anglicare, sharing resources to spread the load somewhat.
He gave examples of a local businessman and sportsman, paired with a local kid who he was able to give some cricketing advice to. The lad now plays A-grade, is being helped with his homework and with job applications, and he now has found a job at McDonalds, so gaining a chance to escape the downward cycle.
Another kid, a girl, was paired with a woman who had in common a love of all things French. Through just these small commonalities a bond is formed and now the girl is much more confident, even appearing on TV in interviews.
These kids often have no concept of how society should function, of a sense of community or giving to make it hang together. They are surprised when simple acts of giving come their way as it has not happened in their lives before. Mentoring provides a positive role model that they can aspire to and learn from.
The most important thing a mentor can do for the kids is "listen". Usually these kids have no-one to talk to and so need to know that they CAN talk to someone and be heard.
The service costs about $40,000 a year to run. They have scope to immediately utilise over 100 more mentors if they could get them. Sarah from Ignite told briefly of the process used to "pair" the mentor and mentee, withthe service getting to know both family and child well before finding a match in the mentor.
It was asked if the kids respond well to the service; it was pinted out that they are all volunteers to the program, and so they have real buy-in and do indeed respond well.
President John thanked them all for their presentation.
A typical World War 1 cemetery on the battlefields.
The school yard at Villers Bretonneux
Attendance
Visiting Rotarians
Brent Pickard
Visitors
Angela Metcalfe
Guests
Travis Downie, Mick Sullivan and Franzi Traber
Apologies
David Benn, Richard Braid, Doug Conkey, Ken Cook, Peter Crozier, John Egan, Alan Eldridge, Michael Eldridge, Frank Fuller, Gerry Gerlach, Jim Gibson, John Gray, Geoff Hamilton, David Hodge, John Ireland, Andrew Irvine, Nick Leywood, Stephen McCoy, Kevin Moffat. Kerry Pascoe, Robert Pearson, Malcolm Robertson, James Ross, Mark Sayer, Bruce Spinks. The apologies of 6 members (TB, DF, PI, TM, PP and RP) were not recorded this week even though they may have been made.
Makeups
David Hodge SM 9/11, Nick Leywood SM 9/11, James Ross SM 9/11, Darren Wallace FM 8/11, Peter Clucas SM 9/11 and Neil Pinto FM 8/11
Mick Powell, Principal of Wagga Wagga High School and Gabby Sheather, Head teacher of Learning Support gave members of Wollundry Rotary a tour of their facilities and their new training equipment. They thanked all the members of Wollundry for the donation of $43,000 which was the proceeds of the Food and Wine Festival. Members were given a tour of the training rooms and demonstrations of the new white boards and training software purchased with the donation.
A Wagga High teacher demonstrates one of the new electronic whiteboard purchased with Wollundry's Food and Wine Festival proceeds.
David was introduced to us by AG Alan Sharpe. David is a real estate agent based in Blayney who also runs a small grazing property at Kings Plains. Our club is his 12th visit of 40 he has to do as DG.
David spoke to us of RI President Gary Huang (pronounced Hung) Light Up Rotary vision being based on a saying of the Chinese legendary teacher, politician and philosopher Confucius: It is better to light one small candle than to curse the darkness. It is the responsibility of every Rotarian to light up one candle – or interpreted to mean sign up at least one new member.
David spoke about one small Rotarian joining Rotary in Nambour Qld who went on to become RI President and set Rotary on the task of eradicating Polio in 1979. That was Sir Clem Renouf. The eradication of Polio is now considered to be within the next 3 years.
David spoke about the KISS principle as being his philosophy in business and in Rotary. District 9700 has written goals and a task this year is to induct new members at a rate of 5% of the current district membership of 1100 to contain the decline in numbers from resignations and passings.
He is also introducing the Paul Harris Society to the district aimed at - as he said – members earning too much money. More on the Paul Harris Society will no doubt be forthcoming soon.
Finally he spoke of the District PR team including PDG John Egan, the use of social Media such as Facebook to spread the Rotary message in our district and of a proposal to have drop down list on the district web page to encourage cross pollination of ideas between clubs in the district.
Concluding his talk David and President John exchanged badges and banners.
The Wollundry Rotary Cycle Challenge has certainly got off to a great start with the front page story in the Tuesday July 29th Wagga Wagga Daily Advertiser. Pictures are from left Committee Chair Phil McIntosh, Tim Barter and Andrew Irvine. The full story, thanks to the Daily Advertiser is reprinted below. Click on the story to enlarge it.
President Phil indeed had the melancholy duty of informing last Tuesday's meeting of the passing of one of Wollundry's finest, Brian Roberts.
Brian had spent the majority of his life growing up, working and participating in the cultural and sporting life of Wagga Wagga. He was a successful and respected accountant. a leader of his rugby club, a keen gardener and lived life to the fullest.
Brian was conscripted into the Australian Army during the mid 1960's and was quickly selected to train as an officer. After graduation Brian spent 18 months in Singapore and Malaysia. On his return to civilian life he began working with Bush and Campbell Accountants in Wagga, a company he remained with through his working life, becoming a partner and a mentor to many of its younger employees.
Brian's great recreational passion was the playing of rugby with his beloved Wagga City Rugby Club.
He was a life member of the club, with his involvement commencing with the Colts premiership team of 1963. He went onto play in three first grade premiership teams of 1969, 1971 and 1976 and was captain coach of the runners up teams in 1974 and 1975. Brian was a great supporter of the club, attending matches right up until his untimely death.
Brian made a huge contribution to the life of this city through his involvement as treasurer of the Riverine Club for 20 years for which he was awarded honorary life membership. This was only the second award in the club's history since 1881. He was a committed Apexian before joining Wollundry. His contribution was substantial to our club through the organisation of weekly guest speakers. Brian was diligent to the aims and cause of Rotary.
Our sincere condolences to his wife, Michelle, children Andrew and Catherine and their families.
The memorial service will be held at the Uniting Church, Johnson Street at 2pm this Thursday.
The weather was ideal and the 2014 BMW Food and Wine Festival pulled in
record crowds. This annual event was organised by the members of Wollundry Rotary and held in the Wagga Civic Theatre Gardens surrounding Wollundry Lagoon. For more photos...click here.
Riverina BMW Food & Wine Festival Pulls Record Crowds
Official representatives of the RI President at the 9700 district conference were Kamal and Sonal Sanghvi, from the Rotary Club of Dhanbad in District 3250 in India.
The Official Opening of the conference by the Mayor of Orange, John Davis
The awesome lineup from Wollundry at the conference.
Dr Keith Suter, well known TV commentator gave an
enlightening address on the prospects for peace and
the role that Rotarians can play in it.
Father Chris Riley at the conference giving his presentation about some confronting issues which exist in our communities today regarding sexual exploitation of children.
Past President, John Gray alerted the meeting on Tuesday that President Phil and Lyn's granddauhter, Edison had been taken ill and is now in hospital in Sydney.
Well wishes are extended to baby Edison and we trust that she is back shortly bouncing on her grandparents knees in Wagga!
Phil and Lyn would like to extend their thanks to all members for their concern and consideration at this time.
President Phil gave a detailed report on the current financial position of the club and the decisions for the coming year that we are confronted with if we are going to provide enhanced services to the Wagga Wagga Community and meet our national and international commitments as Rotarians. He gave a report on each of the club accounts and highlighted that we are tracking on target for our adjusted budget for 2013-14.
The gradual decrease each year in the income from our main source, the Sunday Markets was discussed as was the the unplanned increase in income from equipment hire and the Australia Day market.
Youth Director, Darren Wallace announced that Wollundry will be continuing its strong support of the exchange program with the arrival of a student from Germany, Francesca Trabert in July.
He asked that we all consider hosting Francesca with four families needed. The district website provides full information on the commitments of the hosting family.
Our meeting today was back at the Commercial Club and President Phil welcomed guests, especially our guest speaker Lyn Quigley, following the singing of Rotary Grace and the Loyal Toast.
Phil begam by thanking Rick Priest and his fellow Men's Shed members for hosting us last week at the Showground and providing a meal.
He then gave us a number of reminders:
The Food and Wine Festival roster is on the table. Members are asked to volunteer for at least one of the time slots over the weekend.
Projects Committee have recommeneded and Board has approved a donation of $1,000 to Senior Citizens week.
A list of key dates for our club:
18th Feb Wollundry Meeting Dr. Peter Adams
20th Feb Polio Film Night "Last Vegas"
22nd - 23rd Feb Pres. Elect training.
23rd Feb Wagga Community Peace Awards
4th March Wollundry Meeting Graham Hornibrook
10th/11th March Science Challenge
17th - 21st March RYDA Equex Centre
21st - 23rd March District Conference Orange
28th - 30th March Riverina BMW Food and Wine Festival
31st Mar - 5th April RYLA Camp Kurrajong
Lucky Door Priaze was won by Wayne Jenkins
Phil closed the meeting pretty well on time with the Natiional Anthem lead By Andy Irvine.
Pictgured above are President Phil MacIntosh, Inspector Steven Bradwood and Guest Speaker Constable Max Burmeister.
Graham Burmeister introduced his son Max admitting that this would be the most biased introduction in 35 years! Max has attended most of the Sunday Markets that Graham has attended which means that he has worked approximately 50 Sunday Markets. Max is currently an acting detective in Wagga Wagga Police department and his presentation will be about police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Max came to the podium and noted that he felt that the introduction was very objective …which was followed by chuckles from the audience. Max began his presentation by noting that people would remember Captain Moonlight and his historic takeover of Wantabadgery Station.
He noted at the time the Daily Advertiser totally bagged the Wagga police for being bad shots, having a preference for sunning themselves in front of the courthouse and were reluctant to leave town to find criminals. Max then noted that nothing has changed!
He gave details of the battle and noted that Senior Constable Edward Bowen was killed. He then outlined all of the significant accomplishments of Senior Constable Bowen. Max went on to note that only the “bad” are remembered in our history. Rarely do people know the details of the good men and women who led honest lives and gave their lives in defence of the law.
The plan is to hold a meeting with the Wantabadgery Community to discuss if they would be honoured to have some form of monument located in the Village in memory of Senior Constable Bowen. He invited anyone to come along to the Wantabadgery Hall at 10:30 am on Saturday, February 1st.
Max answered several questions. Frank Fuller commended Max and related to the members the story of an officer killed.
Max was given a vote of thanks by long time friend John Gray. John told a nice story about how all of the shouts at the MCG had to include an ice cream for Max. John recognised the considerable contributions made by Police Officers.
Graham Burmeister introduced his son Max admitting that this would be the most biased introduction in 35 years! Max has attended most of the Sunday Markets that Graham has attended which means that he has worked approximately 50 Sunday Markets. Max is currently an acting detective in the Wagga Wagga Police department and his presentation will be about police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Max came to the podium and noted that he felt that the introduction was very objective …which was followed by chuckles from the audience. Max began his presentation by noting that people would remember Captain Moonlight and his historic takeover of Wantabadgery Station.
He noted at the time the Daily Advertiser totally bagged the Wagga police for being bad shots, having a preference for sunning themselves in front of the courthouse and were reluctant to leave town to find criminals. Max then noted that nothing has changed!
He gave details of the battle and noted that Senior Constable Edward Bowen was killed. He then outlined all of the significant accomplishments of Senior Constable Bowen. Max went on to note that only the “bad” are remembered in our history. "Rarely do people know the details of the good men and women who led honest lives and gave their lives in defence of the law."
The plan is to hold a meeting with the Wantabadgery Community to discuss if they would be honoured to have some form of monument located in the Village in memory of Senior Constable Bowen. He invited anyone to come along to the Wantabadgery Hall at 10:30 am on Saturday, February 1st.
Max answered several questions. Frank Fuller commended Max and related to the members the story of an officer killed.
Max was given a vote of thanks by long time friend John Gray. John told a nice story about how all of the shouts at the MCG had to include an ice cream for Max. John recognised the considerable contributions made by Police Officers.
Steve McCoy was in charge, and has since left town, heading for the Bon Jovi concert??? His report came by email, and we can glean………..
The team was Steve McCoy, Michael Eldridge, Greg Conkey, John Hawkins, John Mason, Phil McIntosh, Chris Metcalf, Paul Gianottis, Kerry Pascoe, Rob Pearson and George Thomas.
The collection, adjusted for expenses, was $2672.10, down a bit on recent markets, but there was a clash with a market at the lake, and some stallholders will miss the January markets as they take a break.
Phil commented that the garbage disposal from Saturday markets was still disrupted by gasworks remediation work, and we need to bolster the bins available for Saturday markets, possibly by transferring some bins from the Myer site.
Child Protection procedures and legislation has been a hot topic in the press and public debate for several years. Rotary has programs involving young people in the community, and needs to demonstrate that it takes the protection of these people, while they are participating in our programs, seriously.
George Thomas is aware, as we all are, of the collective “not again” as the forms to be completed are handed out, but exhorts us to complete the paperwork, and to be aware of all the steps in place to protect the young people entrusted to Rotary.
The first point of contact for any concerns regarding youth protection is the District Youth Protection Officer, who has been trained in procedures to deal with complaints.
The RYPEN camp was highly successful with 70 teenagers attending from
around our district at the Borambola Sport & Rec Camp. Thanks to all
members,particularly, Darren Wallace, Neil Pinto and Peter Clucas (pictured
above), who gave up all or part of their weekend to ensure that this
important showpiece of Rotary in action in our district ran smoothly.
Denis Shean is the chairman of this committee, and in his introductory remarks, he told us of format changes that will apply to the awards this year.
Rob Fuller was called upon to introduce the first nominee, and that was Maureen Foley, employed by Dentist Gordon Saggers. See photo at right.
Both Rob and Gordon were effusive in their comments on Maureen’s qualities as practice manager, and Maureen was gracious in acceptance of the award.
John Ferguson introduced the recipient of the second award to be made today. He called Jacy Dundas to come up to the front, and related that Jacy was the functions manager at the Wagga Wagga Country Golf club. Jacy is pictured at left with Club Manager Derek O’Brien.
John reckoned that a quarter to half of our members may have dealt with Jacy at the club. He gave a summary of her work, and the importance of the club within our community.
Denis, in summing up, advised that Wollundry Rotary could proceed with two more awards in the new year, and called on members to actively look for suitable nominees for Pride of Workmanship recognition.
The clubs Christmas Party was at Geoff and Jan Hamilton’s home at Downside on Sunday. The location was stunning – a magnificent home set in a grand garden, with views stretching miles over agricultural pursuits involving tractors, headers, trucks and thirsty farmers. That didn’t seem to prey on the minds of the Wollundry party animals as they polished off their Ham, Turkey and Roast Beef, accompanied by ales, wines and various refreshments in the shade of the Hamilton garden.
Phil thanked our hosts for making their home available for the party, the social committee for organizing the event, and a few extra efforts – Pat Ingram and Mark Hillis provided chairs, and I’m sure there were more, Thanks to all involved.
Mark Hillis reported that he had some alarming news, conveyed by phone during Sunday evening, and explained that his son had suffered an electric shock. Mark thanked those who were with him for their support, and told us that all was now back to normal.
A great team effort by the rostered crew and the Sunday Market's committee ensured a very successful Christmas Market. 86 stallholders with the ponies, jumping castle and go-carts ensured plenty of entertainment. With the larger crowd, three gates operated. Sweets and balloons for all the children were given out the gates.
OIC Geoff Breust with the team Brian Roberts, Mark Hillis, John Egan, Peter Crozier, Gerry Gerlach assisted by the Sunday Market's committee of Col Mercer, James Hamilton, Laurie Blowes, John Smith, Mal Robertson, Graham Barrow, Ken Taylor, Kev Moffat, Jim Gibson.
RESULT
Gate: $1205.35
Stalls: $1070.00
Trestles: $ 72.00
Marquees $ 90.00
TOTAL $2437.35
Entertainment flowed again at last Tuesday's meeting with the last of the laureates coming up with their unique contributions. Paul Murray to the tune of the Village People's "Macho Men" produced a microsoft mug shot of all members. No resignations have been reported yet!
Dave Benn, in a tribute to our dentists, Neil and Croz recited the poem "Dr Death". Nothing new about the poem but newer members of the club were relieved to find out that Benny speaks this way all the time whether he has been to the dentist or not.
President Phil read a wonderful tribute to Australian Greats! entitled "The Day They Came Together" by Rupert McCall. The line "this country and its magic, we should never take for granted" is a statement all of us should heed.
Thanks again to all our contributors.
Bruce Spinks has donated a wonderful hamper of Wollundry Grove olive products and Harefield pistachio products for a raffle. The proceeds will go to the relief fund for The Philippines cyclone disaster.
Tickets are $5 each and are available from the secretary.
The raffle will be drawn at the Christmas meeting.
In a scene going back 50 years (at least!!!) we arrived on Sunday morning for the Christmas Markets to see James and Col on "playground cleanup" duties. It was a great job to have blow cleaned and raked the Myer car park before the markets commenced, something remarked upon by the regulars. Great job fellas! A clean up bill has been forwarded to Myer.
The Rotary Clubs of South Wagga, Wagga Sunrise, Wagga Murrumbidgee and Wollundry have combined to donate a DreamCricket kit to the four schools in Wagga which have students with disabilities. This means that the 90 students at Tolland, Kooringal & Lake Albert Public Schools and the Willans Hill School can now enjoy the physical and social benefits of this great program.
Yes it is on this Sunday-The Christmas Markets, at the Myers car park...a great day for the Wagga community and a fantastic day for the family so get along and enjoy the great time!
Foundation President Graham Hornibrook, Foundation member & Past President Bruce Pinney with Past Presidents Frank Fuller, Ken Cook and Michael Knight.
President Elect for 2015-16, Geoff Hamilton with Peter Clucas.
George Thomas presented an informative session on RAWCS(Rotary Australia World Community Service). RAWCS assists Rotary Clubs develop and manage projects to improve the lives and living conditions of others in developing countries in our region which extends through Asia and Africa.
RAWCS Ltd acts as a national company with District 9700 being part of the Eastern Region Committee of Districts. The last program we were involved in was the RYLA programs in East Timor which promoted its future leaders.
George concluded with a statement that a meeting will shortly be held with the Member for Wagga Wagga, Daryl Maguire and GTES regarding involvement in an apprenticeship program in developing countries.
Another brilliant,sunny day for the Sunday Markets and OIC, Rick Priest had the "fabulous five" of Dennis Shean, Pat Ingram, David Benn, Graham Burgmeister & Bruce Spinks as his team, ably assisted again by Julian from TRAC.
The result was: Gate: $589.05
Stalls: $420.00
Adv Bookings: $230.00
Trestles: $ 34.00
TOTAL: $1,273.05
Secretary Paul Milde opened the 2013 AGM. The meeting passed the minutes of last year's AGM.
Treasurer for 2012-13, Nick Leywood gave an overview of the report forwarded to all members. The meeting carried the treasurer's report.
The meeting endorsed that Twomeys & Partners be appointed the auditors for 2014-15.
James Hamilton and George Thomas then provide a detailed report on the proposed, updated Constitution of the club. This again had been circulated to members and Articles 1,2,5,6,7,9,10,12 and By-laws changes of 26/11/2013 were accepted by the meeting.
John Ferguson, President Elect for 2014-15 then named the Board of Directors for the coming year:
Secretary: Paul Milde
Treasurer: Jim Gibson
A/Treasurer: David Pyke
Public Officer: James Hamilton
Services: Tim Macgillycuddy
Youth: Darren Wallace
Foundation: Wal Paton
Administration: Graham Barrow
Public Relations: Craig Bromley
Membership: Rob Fuller
The meeting carried the appointment of the 2014-15 Board.
John then moved that Geoff Hamilton be appointed President Elect for 2015-16. This was accepted unanimously by the meeting.
During the course of President Phil's welcome four projects were carried by the members for funding:
St Vincent de Paul-a donation of $1,740 for Rotary overnight kits and blankets for the homeless.
Polio Plus-a donation of $1,500.
Little Big Day Out- a refund of the hire fee for the tents of $750
Philippines Cyclone Disaster- a donation of $4,000 to provide 4 shelter boxes. This could be expanded on an application of the Projects Committee to the Board.
President Phil welcomed 56 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting, which was the AGM. A special welcome was extended to Charter President, Graham Hornibrook and Charter Member and Past President Bruce Pinney.
President Phil gave a comprehensive report from last week's Board Meeting. This included a treasurer's report from Peter MacKinnon which gave the club a combined balance of approximately $130,000 in the four accounts of Club, Community, Reserve and Food & Wine Festival. Phil emphasised that some monies for club dues are yet to be paid to Rotary International and District.
There was an expansive and thorough report from the Sunday Markets committee headed by Col Mercer.
It was agreed by the meeting to endorse the Board's decision to continue to published the weekly bulletin in the public domain of the website.
Membership of the club is currently 79 with one new application, and our exchange student, Nelson Alvardo.
President Phil recommended that all chairman of committees look at their respective budgets and investigate if there is a responsibility to finance an existing program which is supported by the club. This is particularly important in the areas of Foundation and Youth, so chairmen are encouraged to contact their Directors Wal Paton and Darren Wallace and discuss their budgets.
The youth area is busy and robust as usual. RYPEN is on this weekend, Driver Awareness 17-22 March and our exchange student, Heidi Shutter leaves for Austria next month.
The Sarg's Session was conducted by leading buccaneer, Dr Mark Sayer. Mark and a few of his Wollundry pirating mates had spent a week off the Great Barrier Reef fishing. There has been rumours of improper use of the Sarg's fines for the trip so all members were fined again.
Then followed an educational quiz called "Spot the Fish" where more fines were extracted from the members. The winner was Col Mercer who was presented with a frozen pack of fish fingers.
Another highly entertaining session of English Poetry read by our three laureates; Graham Burmeister, George Thomas and John Hawkins. While George and Graham read from the sombre poetry of war by Rudyard Kipling and Edward Thomas, John entertained us firstly with "Stand & Stone" and then "The Wollundry Club Derby".
The latter piece was read by the legendary race caller "Alan Dull". Well over a quarter of the club's members were mentioned in a mix of poetry and prose that would have had the stewards out and would make even Robbie Waterhouse and Fine Cotton appear to be innocent!!!
Liable and censorship laws let alone space prevents its publishing.
Great entertainment gents and again illustrated the many talents of our members.
OIC Pat Parnell had a very strong and willing team of 5.5 members for last Sunday's Markets which was held in brilliant sunshine. The team was Graham Barrow, Pat Ingram(making a welcome return after 10 years in the wilderness), James Ross, John Egan, Frank Fuller and Julian Beukers. Julian, a student from TRAC completing his Duke of Edinburgh Award, enabled the senior member of the team to take a well deserved early mark.
An unexpected but most welcome guest at the markets was well known entrepreneur and aviator, Dick Smith, AO. Dick was a guest of Geoff Breust and was astounded at the contribution which Wollundry makes to the Wagga community. Dick made a very generous donation of $50 at both the front and back gates.
Past President, Doug Sutton gave a comprehensive and enlightening talk about the many famous world figures who have been Rotarians. These included:
Franz Lehar, Austrain composer of the "Merry Widow".
Former US Presidents, Warren Harding and Gerald Ford.
Margaret Thatcher, British Prime minister.
Sir Nigel Gresley, famous railway engineer. His steam locomotive, "Mallard" still holds the world record of 126mph for steam propulsion.
English entertainer, Sir Harry Lauder.
Admiral Richard Byrd, Polar aviator and explorer.
Guglielmo Marconi, inventor of the wireless.
Orville Wright, pioneer aviator.
Doug added that "The Four-Way Rotary Test" was scripted by Herbert J Taylor, a famous American industrialist as he set out to save his company the "Aluminum Products Company" from bankruptcy. He offered the test to Rotary in the 1940's when he was an International Rotary director. It was copyrighted in 1954.
The test is used by Rotarians as a moral code for personal and business relationships, and can be applied for almost any aspect of life.
Rotary Information-Famous Rotarians-"The Four Way Test"
President Phil welcomed 59 members and guests to Tuesday's meeting.
He paid special congratulations to Wollundry member, Wayne Jenkins who received the Premiers Award. This award recognises at the highest level Wayne's achievement in excellence for his teaching of Automotive Studies at the Wagga Campus of the Riverina TAFE. Congratulations Wayne!
President Phil went onto congratulate all members for their contribution to the community last weekend. He estimated a contribution of $5,000 to the community with the club's involvement in the erection and pull down of tents at the Wagga Families and Children's Expo, the Wagga Base Hospital Fete and a great Sunday Market with a gate of nearly $1,900!
Wayne Jenkins being congratulated on receiving the Premiers Award by Wal Paton and John Egan at last Tuesday's meeting.
Wollundry Rotarian and TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Head Automotive teacher Wayne Jenkins has been awarded the Premier's Award for Individual Excellence and Achievement. NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell presented the award to Wayne at a ceremony in Sydney on Wednesday evening Nov 13th.
Wayne said he was thrilled and honoured with the prestigious award. Wollundry Rotary President Phil McIntosh congratulated Wayne on behalf of all the members of Wollundry Rotary Club.
Some members had volunteered to read or recite poetry. Paul Milde introduced the session with an email from Burmo, an apology because he was at a cocktail party with politicians, and some history of the iconic ballad “Waltzing Maztilda”. Then we had five readers:-
Kevin Watts, a short ditty on the secret of Longetivity.
Michael Georgiou, two poems written by his son Nicholas, talent waiting for discovery.
Michael Knight, read The Accounting Cat – Liquidity’s not there!!
Bruce Spinks developed the argument, “has God got fleas”
David Benn got away with murder, innuendo on a medical theme, and no mention of “penis”. He also dealt with Dogs and uninvited guests on the farm.
We ran out of time, and there is a backlog of poetry still to be recited, so we can expect more in the forthcoming weeks. John Hawkins, Burmo, Phil Mackintosh, George Thomas and Paul Murray are still to perform.
Andrew Arthur was inducted as a new member of our club, after being sponsored by Mark Hillis. In his introductory speech, Andrew thanked Mark for introducing him, and told of the first contact with our club through Brent Pickard. He will represent the classification of “Building Supplies – Retail” and will serve on the Social, Sporting and Fellowship Committee.
Andrew, who is a Pommie, indicated that he was aware of sporting rivalries, and even on day one, made reference to Rugby test results. This puts enormous pressure on Australian Cricketers to perform.
The District Conference next year is in Orange – That’s where the DG comes from. The dates are 21st to 23rd March, and a card which doubles as an invitation was available on the tables. Some of the guest speakers were listed on the brochure, and Phil was enthusiastic about the list that has been assembled. The list includes Dr Keith Sutor, Fr Chris Riley and architect Paul Pholeros.
Laurie Blowes was deputising for Mark Sayer, and told a vet joke. We hope that Mark has a short memory, or never hears about this story. Assistant Sergeant Tim Barter has reported that he is flying north towards the Gulf of Carpentaria on a fishing trip, and Laurie noted that he returned from the Melbourne Cup by Cruise ship, and took the call as he entered Sydney Harbour. Perhaps the auditors need to check whether the money we pay in fines is being is being banked into an appropriate account!!!!
There were fines levied as well, mainly the sweep winners from last week, and the incoming recipients of phone calls. Then Laurie went off on a tangent, getting excited about tents for the Base Hospital Fete. A team of Rotarians will be needed to erect tents at the Civic Centre at 7am on Saturday, and to pull them down at around 3pm. Andy Irvine is coordinating this project.
Realising that he was still under budget on fines, Laurie called for all those with cash in their hands “in anticipation” to place it in the box.
President Phil opened the meeting, invited Jim Gibson to lead the singing of Grace, and called on all to drink a toast to the Queen. He acknowledged that the program for this meeting was “very full” and that attendance was high as well – an additional table had to be set to accommodate all the members that had turned up to hear the poetry.
Our guests were welcomed, with John Smith introducing his daughter, Danika, and Mark Hillis had invited Christine along for support, along with Andrew Arthur who was to be inducted as a member of Wollundry Rotary club at this meeting. Phillip noted that some of our members had been involved, along with Christine Hillis, in driver training, naming Andy and Ken, but others were helping as well.
Exchange Student, Nelson Alvarez was at the meeting and was invited to give us an update on his activities.
The highlight of his week was a quick trip to The Gold Coast in Geoff Hamilton’s aeroplane – up and back in one day, with each leg less than two hours flying. Nelsons main regret was that he couldn’t stay on for “schoolies” but he loved the experience, and thanked Geoff for taking him along.
The “stars” of Backyard Ashes were congratulated for their part in this film, Jim Gibson(see photo at right) and Darren Wallace
are revelling in the spotlight, but are yet to get an invoice from Actors Equity for Union Fees!!!!
Last weekend, Phil attended the Rotary District 9700 Presidents Forum, and the District AGM in Temora. Wollundry has been presented with a certificate by Rotary International, acknowledging our support for the Polioplus campaign. This certificate relates to PP Andrews year.
There was a drive to garner support for RYLA – Rotary Youth Leadership awards, and this camp will be held next year between 31 March and 5th April. We have nearly eighty “talent scouts” on the ground, hopefully seeking out great prospects for RYLA. The age group that is targeted is between 18 and 28. Our nominated attendee last year was Sam Miles, and he was totally positive in his feedback after the experience.
Phillip reported on further developments in the planning process for twilight farmers markets.
Kevin Watts and President Phil have met with WWCC, and the meeting was a valuable step towards the establishment of this project. Early discussions revolved around venue, theme, days and times, logistics and personnel requirements, but with a DA, public comment and decision time to deal with, we will not achieve a market in early December. James Hamilton, who has had experience with development applications to WWCC in the past has become involved in the process, so stand by for action.
Melbourne Cup sweep winnings were mentioned, and those who stand to collect were urged to take their envelopes before the Sergeant at Arms had his parade.
George has been on the road, and had made up at Katherine, collecting a banner. He told us that these isolated clubs on the grey nomad circuit often had more visitors than members, and he also made up at Karratha Rotary Club, where the local salt mine, a Cargill enterprise, donated 20 tonnes of salt, which was bagged by the members to sell for pool salt – an arduous task.
Country Hope Concerts:
Greg Conkey reminded members that two concerts in support of Country Hope will be held shortly.
Saturday, 23rd November John Paul Young
Sunday, 24th November Darren Coggan
Tickets for both these concerts are available from the Civic Theatre.
Kurrajong Early Intervention Fair:
Andrew Irvine reminded members that we had a commitment to erect tents for the Kurrajong Early Intervention centre at their fair on Thursday, in the civic precinct. Around 25 shelters would be required, and they need to be up by 3.00pm, and pulled down again at 7.30pm. Andrew has some names, but if you can add to the numbers, extra hands will be welcomed.
Members were reminded today that the lifestyle we take for granted is not enjoyed by all Wagga's citizens, when our guest speakers Trevor Urquhart and Michelle Ellis from the Society of St Vincent De Paul, addressed our meeting.
Trevor, who is the Regional President of the Society, said that he is responsible for eight conferences, five in Wagga and three in nearby towns. Vinnies as the society is known, also has Special Works Conferences one of which is The Edel Quinn Shelter conference which is responsible for that institution.
In Wagga, Vinnies also has a Care and Support Centre at 207 Edward St., which is the location for counselling and interviewing those who are seeking assistance. Vinnies also runs op shops and second hand furniture retail.
Trevor pointed out that times are increasingly getting tough for many people and it is not just pensioners seeking help. Many low to middle income families are finding that they need help with electricity bills, medical bills, mortgage payments and rent assistance. Trevor said we live in a great city but many of us don't see the other side of life where people are struggling.
Each of the Wagga Catholic Parishes; St. Michael's, Kooringal, South Wagga and Ashmont have Vinnies Conferences. Members of these conferences, who are all unpaid volunteers, make home visits to needy families on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. In 2012 Vinnes in Wagga spent $402,000 in assistance. 2013 financial year it was $482,000. Income is derived from shop sales and donations. All donations received locally are used locally. in the past year 15,000 incidents of assistance have occured.
Trevor said there is a new poor in Australian Society. They are genuine battlers. There is a mythology about dole bludgers but he said you try and live on $480 per fortnight (the dole).
Vinnies want to set up a food van to provide assistance in the Tolland and Ashmont suburbs. They can't afford to do it alone and are looking for a partnership. It would cost $60,000 to set up a van. They are also looking to use alternative facilities such as the Tolland Community Centre or the Ashmont Hub.
Michelle Ellis from Edel Quinn Shelter spoke about the activity at the Shelter for homeless men. A new building is being constructed on the current Shelter Site and so the residents are in temporary accommodation. The new building should be ready in January.
The new shelter building will have 14 ensuite rooms for long term homeless. In addition there will be more facilities for education and learning, especially life skills.
Edel Quinn Shelter is designed to cater for men over 18 years of age but hopes to be able to accommodate women as well in the future. Staff at Edel Quinn also have an outreach program which caters for 48 men living in the community.
Trevor Vinnies also has a white good program whereby people can borrow funds from Vinnies to buy whitegoods and they pay them off at no interest. The funds come from a bequest.
After a number of questions our speakers were thanked by President Phil as the meeting was running over time.
The subject was very interesting to members as we contribute each year to Vinnies and we applaud the good work that this organisation does in our community for the poor.
During his talk Trevor paid special tribute to Chris Nash for the excellent service Nash Bros are providing in the construction of the new Shelter.
John Hawkins is calling for volunteers to assist out at Borambola on the last weekend of November. He needs ninevolunteers all up, please talk to John if you can assist.
Golf.
Geoff Breust reported that the Twomey Patterson Twighlight competition begins next week. We have two teams entered and members are asked to make sure they have paid their $20 registration fee.
City of Sydney Choir
John Ferguson announced the City of Sydney Choir will be performing along with The Wagga City Rugby Male Choir this Saturday after Fusion 13. The venue will be the Civic Theatre commencing at 8p.m.
CREATING HOPE IN CAMBODIA
BLUE ILLUSION INVITES YOU TO A SPECIAL CHARITY EVENT ON
Thursday the 7th of November from 5 - 8 p.m.
175A Baylis St. Wagga Wagga
Join us to see the new collection and enjoy drinks and nibbles. 20% of the proceeds will be given to support the Creating Hope in Cambodia medical centre project.
RSVP (to help with catering) Text Cathy on 0411 453016 or call Jodie on 02 69216463 or email at wagga@blueillusion.com or kathy@pcresources.com.au
Club Guests: Trevor Urquhart and Michelle Ellis (Guest speakers) Nelson Alvarado (Exchange Student)
Makeups: Paul Murray, David Hodge, Jim Gibson, Michael Marrylees, Brian Roberts, Rob Pearson, Mark Hillis, Craig Bromley, Kerry Pascoe.
Apologies: Graham Barrow, Lawrie Blowes, Richard Braid, Peter Clucas, Michael Eldridge, Geoffrey Hamilton, David Hodge, John Ireland, Michael Knight, Stephen McCoy, Paul Murray, Evan Robertson
, Mark Sayer, Dick Smith, George Thomas, David Pike.
Rotary information was given today by Peter Crozier
ROTARY INFORMATION 15TH October
Rotary’s wheel emblem has been the symbol of Rotary since the earliest days. In 1923, the Rotary International Association adopted a mechanically correct gear wheel with 24 cogs and six spokes as the emblem. The keyway was added to symbolise a working cog. The Rotary wheel was approved as the official Rotary emblem in January 1924
The Rotary emblem in official colours of royal blue and gold is one of the most recognisable symbols in the world. To Rotarians past and present, the Rotary wheel emblem evokes the image of a well-oiled, efficient machine, working for the service of mankind.
Team: Greg Conkey, John Mason, Chris Metcalfe, Kerry Pascoe, Michael Merrylees.
OIC reported a perfect day, with an experienced team.
Questions from stallholders where markets will be after Dec. 1st.
Toilets were not cleaned this week.
Take gas receipt for food stall and collect money.
Site 147 booked for 27/10/13
Bin has been booked to be emptied.
The Financials :
Gate $605.65
Stalls $380.00
Adv. $208.00
Trestles $ 28.00
Total $1221.65
Farmers Markets
OIC Doug Conkey
Team: Col Duff, Chris Nash, Peter Crozier, Brian Roberts, David Hodge, Graham Burrows, Craig Bromley,Jim Gibson, Wal Paton and David Benn.
A lovely warm spring day and after a slow start a very good crowd. My thanks to Col Duff as 2IC. It is a huge relief for any Farmers' Market OIC to have either Col or Pat Ingram in the team and when you go around collecting the stallholders money and hear the odd grumble and complaint it is very comforting to hear how it is handled. The fact that both Col and Pat have been awarded Paul Harris Fellowships for the Farmers Market is a tribute to their work, their knowledge of the market and the evident respect of the stallholders.
My thanks also to Chris Nash for giving us a short talk before the start as to how to set up the market in the most efficient and effective way.
The results. The total collected from stallholders was $3,659. The total banked after expenses of $49 and an outstanding cheque for direct deposit was $3070. The total of $3,659 is the largest amount since February and the second biggest in a year and this is no doubt due to an A team on the job!!!
Standing L/R: John Egan, Peter Crozier,John Gray, David Benn,
Michael Knight, John Ireland, Rick Priest,Pat Ingram
Seated L/R: Ken Cook, Graham Burmeister, David Byfield.
Wollundry Rotarians who had been in Rotary for more than 25 years gathered for a great meal and reminiscing at the Riverine Club last Thursday night.
Since it was chartered 33 years ago, Wollundry Rotary has contributed nearly $3million to local charitable causes and to many worthwhile overseas projects. The purpose of the night was to celebrate these achievements among old friends.
There were two foundation members of the club present, Graham Burmeister and Ken Cook. Both have been members for 33yrs. David Byfield closely follows as a member for 32 yrs. Graham feels that the best part of Rotary is the fun and great companionship being a member generates. Ken added the wonderful feeling of self worth that members get from giving back, and David spoke of his pride in the achievements of the club. All those present echoed these ideas.
“Rotary has made a huge difference to my life, and allowed me to meet a very broad cross section of people.” said John Egan, a member for 28 years. Rotary is a world wide organisation made up of like minded persons who get together to do good in the World.
Wollundry Rotary celebrates more than 300 years of service to the Wagga Community
Dennis Shean introduced Gillian O’Brien who is from Monash University in Albury and is working on an Aspirin Project. It is called ASPREE , which stands for Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly. It is being funded by the Australian and American Federal Governments.
It is a large study involving nineteen thousand people.
It is a double blind study controlled trial of 100 mgs of Aspirin and a placebo over a period of 5 years. It is restricted to people over the age of 70. As the life expectancy has increased so much, it is in everyone’s interest to help maintain the health of the elderly.
This will be the first study to verify whether it is beneficial for older people to take low-dose daily aspirin.
For people who have had heart attack or a stroke, it is a given that they should take daily aspirin. But, should it be used as a broad spectrum preventative? ASPREE hopefully, will help answer this question. Gillian proceeded to give a history of Aspirin. It is available in over 80 countries and is regarded as the most successful non-prescription medication of all time. Aspirin acts as a blood thinner. Aspirin also acts an anti-inflammatory which may help with dementia. It also may help with some cancers.
Studies have been done on the effects of Aspirin with middle aged people, but this is the first study dealing with the elderly and the benefit of taking low-dosage aspirin. There are sub-studies dealing with sleep apnoea and macular degeneration.
The dose used as a blood thinner is lower than what is used for pain relief.
For any more information please contact 1800 728 745 or visit www.aspree.org
The cost of the study is 50 Million U.S. dollars.
John Smith gave the Vote of Thanks. John said that since Gillian deals with the elderly, everyone in Wollundry qualifies except for Nelson and himself.
Paul Gianottis introduced our CSU Scholarship students, Abby Jones and Jess Cole.
Jess spoke first thanking members for the Scholarship. She was the recipient of the $500 Book prize.
Jess appreciated the prize and used it to buy a $230 Microbiology text book. There is no opportunity to borrow a textbook from the library and students need the latest publications which necessitates purchasing new books. Jess is originally from Wagga and she is studying pharmacy. She is keeping as involved as she can, is studying hard and loving Uni. She concluded by saying that she will try to do her best.
Abby Jones expressed a very sincere thank you to all of the members for her scholarship as she can use the annual instalments to help pay for her education. She studying nursing and she would like to make a difference on the Rural health levels. She loves what she is doing. She was originally in medicine, but she will be staying in nursing. She says that the scholarship alleviates the financial pressure. She feels it is very important to be involved in the Community and she is currently involved with the Starlight Foundation and St Vincent’s DePaul. Her extra time is spent promoting Rural Health.
Phil noted that these two exceptional ladies were fine examples of the reasons why Wollundry members work so hard on the markets to give back to the community.
John Ireland gave vote of Thanks on the inspirational talks that Jess and Abby gave. He presented both of them with a small gift and called upon the members to show their appreciation.
Laurie took the parade, and announced that this was his last Mediawatch based fine session – the same names kept coming up in the press. With artwork of a cash cow, coins appearing to come from Bovine hindquarters on the screen, the following media appearances cost a fine:
Dream Cricket, Benn, Crozier and Milde.
Presentation to Chris Blake, Pres Phil.
Junior Football, Jai Blowes’ grandfather.
John Ireland, Darren Wallace, Doug Sutton Rick Priest and Tim Barter were targeted, but not all in attendance.
There were cross fines too.
Graham Barrow no longer looks like his file photo on clubrunner.
Peter Clucas, according to Mark Hillis, halfway through eating a small dog!!!!
Below is the first round of the 2013-14 meal wheel deal. It begins on 1st September and should be completed on 30th November. May I suggest that you make contact with your guests as soon as possible as it is sometimes difficult to make arrangements of a mutually suitable date.
Please let me know if any difficulties arise so that I am aware of them and can assist if required.
It was a great night for Rotary last Tuesday night at the Junee Returned Servicemens' Club when the Rotary Clubs of Junee, Coolamon and Wollundry combined for a meeting. Pictured are the presidents of the three clubs; Phil McIntosh (Wollundry), Doug Bell (Junee) and Dick Jennings (Coolamon) who welcomed 114 Rotarians and guests.
Guest speaker was Garth Perkins (Coolamon) who gave a presentation on the recent tour of the Wagga City Rugby Male Choir to New Zealand and Tonga.
The choir, which contains Rotarians from Wagga Wagga, South Wagga, Coolamon and Wollundry clubs provided their great brand of entertainment for the night.
It was a night that provided the very best of Rotary fellowship in action!
President Phil McIntosh welcomed 68 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting. Special guests were District Governor, Geoff Tancred and his wife Bettye.
Peter Crozier gave Rotary information and relayed a letter to District 9700 from RI President, Ron Burton. Ron's letter challenged all to Engage Rotary, Change Lives.
Geoff Hamilton spoke about the Rotary Student Exchange program with Heidi Shutter being selected by our club. Heidi will be going to Austria.
John Ferguson gave a brief report on the success of the club's donation of $4,000 to the Special Education Unit at Tolland Public School. The donation was to replace stolen I-pads and it was great to see the students individually working at a variety of tasks.
Nelson dressed to impress at last Tuesday's meeting has his coat of many colours and badges admired by Michael Knight.
Maths obviously is not Nelson's strongest subject as he tried to explain that this Friday he has his 18th birthday! He was using some ancient Inca counting system peculiar to Peruvians who are anxious to taste Australian beer.
Happy 17th from all in the club Nelson!
It was a pleasure to welcome District Governor, Geoff Tancred and his wife Bettye to our meeting last Tuesday. Geoff is from the Rotary Club of Orange Clare, and has been the district treasurer for 18 years and the insurance officer for over 20 years. His main recreational interest is fly fishing while Bettye enjoys gardening.
Geoff acknowledged the substantial contribution of Wollundry to the achievements of Rotary both locally and at a district level.
Geoff spoke about "Future Vision" district grants and how seven clubs were successful in 2013-14. He also mentioned the $2 for $1 offered by Bill Gates for the Polio Plus Program. This means our donations work twice as hard and could mean an extra $35 million by 2018 to eradicate polio. Geoff touched briefly on the point that greater emphasis is now being given in Rotary to service rather than attendance, and that some changes to our current structures should be considered if Rotary is to attract new members.
Geoff's wife, Bettye has chosen the Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children(ROMAC), as the partners program to support. We can support this wonderful program by purchasing raffle tickets from our Secretary, Paul Milde.
Country Hope's executive officer, Chris Blake was presented with a cheque for $10,000 by immediate Past President, Andy Irvine. This money will go towards an innovative education program which will asist local children who have become sick, spent a considerable time in hospital and have subsequently fallen behind in their education. There is no government program to assist these children.
Chris Blake thanked the Rotary Clubs of Griffith, Albury and Wollundry for their support. He also made special mention of a Wollundry member and his wife who have also made a substantial donation to this most worthy program.
A brilliant, sunny, winter's day at the Wollundry Lagoon for the Farmers' Market. Entertainment was provided by the Wagga High School Band, with 36 stallholders and a large crowd enjoying the best of winter in Wagga. OIC, Darren Wallace was ably supported by 7.5 Rotarians; Geoff Bruest, David Hodge, Peter MacKinnon, Pat Parnell, Col Duff, Michael Merrylees and John Smith. Timmy Barter "painted the town red" on Friday night and consequently can only claim half a makeup for his contribution! He did come good later, when revived under the "Tree of Knowledge".
A great result $2,785.15 banked.
In a wonderful piece of news for both Wollundry and the Eldridge Corporation, Alan's diary has been found. Eldridge employee, David Benn found both of them hiding in Alan's "new toy". The sergeant fined Alan appropriately.
Visitors at Tuesday's meeting were Ray King, Past District Governor; Alan Sharpe current Assistant District Governor and Marie Egan and Helen Paton with their husbands John and Wal.
Last Wednesday our club along with Wagga Rotary Club again combined to present a DreamCricket session for children with disabilities. The 5 "tragics" from Wollundry; Jim Gibson, David Benn, Peter Crozier, Laurie Blowes and John Ferguson "padded up" again for another highly enjoyable and rewarding day.
55 students along with around 30 staff from four different schools had another great day this time in the Tolland Public School assembly hall. Rick McCarthy from the Bradman Institute organised the day with a series of activities culminating in a game of modified rules cricket. Wollundry donated to both Tolland and Willans Hill Schools a $400 kit of cricket equipment and each student received a DreamCricket cap.
With the cooperation of Wagga Rotary Club, it was a day that provided the very best of what Rotary in action in our community does so well.
Tim Barter continues to reek his revenge on all his (ex) friends! In a display that left even the hardened and ancient dumbfounded he fined just about everyone in attendance: the best dressed, the worst dressed, worst beard,coffee snob, balding and receding hairlines! Revenge is sweet but wait until next week Tim!
Wagga's immediate past mayor, Kerry Pascoe "cooking up" something with Councillor(Senator to his friends) Greg Conkey at last Tuesday's meeting. Was "Chinese Takeaway" on the menu!?!?!!!! or was it a game of "Chinese Whispers"!?!!!!!
It was indeed a privilege to welcome Dr Carl Henman to our last meeting to speak on the issues of men's health. Carl is from Wagga, graduating from Kooringal High in 1991,and then completing a degree in Medical Imaging at CSU. He then worked at Wagga Medical Imaging for some years before studying medicine at the University of NSW. Carl now is employed at Wagga Base and works as a part time GP/Obstetrician at the Peter Street Surgery.
Carl stated four main areas for concern:
1. Prostate
2. Bowel Disease
3. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
4. Skin Surveillance
He gave a clear and comprehensive summary of these important male issues. Carl summarised that we should pay greater attention to our own bodily functions, speak frankly to our family members about the history of hereditary illnesses and have an open discussion with our doctor.
Carl's informal approach to these important issues had members feeling very comfortable about asking questions which happily saw the meeting run over time. Col Mercer thanked Carl on behalf of the club, with no doubt that a follow up visit to the club will be planned in the future.
Last year the Special Needs Support Unit at Tolland Public School suffered from a break-in which saw the student's i-pads stolen. Wollundry donated the replacement value of the stolen items. The unit has 27 students from Kinder to Year 6 who all have a variety of physical and mental disabilities. Our members who were at the DreamCricket day last Wednesday, saw our donation at work as the students worked individually on a variety of reading, spelling and maths tasks. Assistant Principal, Mrs Rachel Linsell thanked Wollundry for our support and presented the club with an appreciation certificate.
As can be seen from the photos it was only the dedicated who upheld the great traditions of the Wollundry Sunday Markets last weekend. Dressed in blizzard gear were OIC, David Benn and his sensational team of Kevin Watts, David (Nescafe) Pyke, John Hawkins, James Hamilton and Bruce Spinks.
"The morn was dark and drizzled rain,
The container light was dim.
The gnashing of teeth and cries of pain,
The coffee's rather grim."
Exchange student, Nelson with two of his Wollundry friends at a recent meeting. Nelson explained to us that he is half way through his stay with us and has just 6 months to go! Nelson loves everything about Australia. He assisted Burmo to mark 500 lambs on the weekend-it was such a fun time!!!
Nelson also confided to me that he loves our national anthem-"Advance Australia Fair". Although a true Peruvian patriot he prefers ours to Peru's national anthem. This might have something to do with its length-7 verses and a chorus. It plays for around 3 minutes as compared to Advance Australia Fair's 35 seconds.
VIVA el PERU! LONG LIVE PERU!
President Phil welcomed 53 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting. Guests were Dr Carl Newman, who was our guest speaker on Men's Health Issues, and our exchange student from Peru, Nelson Alverado.
President Phil reminded us that District Governor, Geoff Tancred and his wife Betty are our guests next week and that there is a Board Meeting also next Tuesday morning commencing at 11.45am.
Phil screened an informative video about Rotary which highlighted that this is Membership Month and that we should all consider inviting along prospective members to join the club.
The meeting of 27th August is a general assembly day where consideration is to be given to new ways to fund raise.
Sergeant, Laurie Blowes not satisfied with his position as the "Lord Mayor of North Wagga" has now launched into a new career with the ABC as a "Media Watch" presenter. See him next Monday at around 9.30pm.
Laurie presented a powerpoint presentation and virtual fined every member, their family or their sporting connections for the past 12 months, if they had appeared in the Daily Advertiser. It was a record! Well done Laurie.
Our Exchange Student from Peru, Nelson Alverado gave a comprehensive report on his week's activities. Only one member fully understood it and that was because Nelson delivered it in Greek! Thanks for the translation Michael, but I think it was definitely lost!
Evidently Chris Metcalf cried when Nelson moved families last week. What Nelson did not understand was that these were "tears of joy"!!!!! Thanks to our new Greek Cypriot family for hosting Nelson.
Nelson congratulates our New Generation Director, Darren on his wine draw win!
A great team of OIC, Paul Murray; Geoff Bruest, Paul Milde, Wal Patton, John Ireland, Alan Eldridge and Dennis Shean braved the elements last Sunday.
Results:
Gate $596.20
Stalls $260.00
Adv Bookings $50.00
Trestles $44.00
Power $10.00 Total $959.20
Carolyn Murray and Marie Egan brighten up an otherwise grey day at the Markets!
OIC, Paul provide us with a powerpoint of the day's activities which include the story of Alan Eldridge arriving late and then being kidnapped by a dog as he went around to collect the signs at the end of the day! Evidently a large dog, or as Alan related a very large dog mistook Alan's vehicle for his owners, jumped in the back and would not leave until found by the owner. Good story Alan, sure beats "the dog ate my homework".
Paul also produced a video of Wal Paton and Geoff Breust racing pedal carts. To see the video click on the screen below:
As an added attraction to the Sunday Markets, our Jumping Castle people have added Pedal Go-carts! The carts will be there most Sundays and are sure to be a crowd puller!
Wollundry cricket legend, "Big" Jim Gibson returned from a very successful International Fellowship Rotary Cricket tour of the United Kingdom and Singapore. He is pictured with President Phil with the several Rotary Clubs' banners which the Australian team played against. Although soundly beaten in the warm up test in Singapore, Jim ignited the team with a brilliant performance of swing and pace in the UK, which had the current Australian coach, Darren Lehmann asking "where has this bowler been for the past 25 years!"
Jim thoroughly enjoyed his first IFCR experience and related a great story about the generosity of Rotarians worldwide. The Australian team decided to support the Bourne Rotary Club's project of providing a pottery kiln for the Sense Resource Centre for people with disabilities. The donation would be made by way of "tour fines" as imposed by "Sergeant of Arms", Arthur Manser. Fines plus Arthur raffling his "Bagging Green Cap" at Bourne Rotary Club raised a staggering amount of 1,100 pounds ($2,000). Well done to Jim and the team!
It was all smiles on the front desk on Tuesday as past treasurer Nick welcomed back current treasurer Peter from overseas.
Nick was explaining to Pete that the "overseas trip is supposed to come after the year as treasurer!!!!"
Bob Willis was inducted into the club last Tuesday. Bob has returned to Wagga after spending the first 10 years of his life as a resident. Bob is pictured with President Phil and David Pyke, his nominator.
Bob's vocational designation is "Pharmacy Retail" and he will join the Sunday Markets Committee. Welcome to Wollundry Bob!
President Phil welcomed 55 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting.
He welcomed back "Big" Jim Gibson fresh from his successful cricket tour of the "Old Dart" and Singapore, Treasurer, Peter MacKinnon and Geoff Hamilton from his "flying trip' to France. Ben Howard, Bob Willis and exchange student, Nelson Alverado were guests of the club.
Phil reminded us that D/G Geoff Tancred will be a guest at our meeting of 13th August and a board meeting is schedule for the morning of this meeting.
There will be a combined meeting with Junee and Coolamon Rotary Clubs at the Junee RSL Club at 6.30pm also on 13th August. Greg Conkey will be guest speaker while members of the Wagga City Rugby Male Choir will also perform.
Greg gave us a great powerpoint of the tour to NZ and Tonga by the choir and this will feature in a future bulletin.
Mark Hillis would like names to him asap for the Sailing on Sydney Harbour weekend in October.
Andy Irvine spoke about renewals and changes to the Responsible Service of Alcohol cards. Members should contact James Ross for details.
Today we were regaled by Richard Braid. He established himself as a cricket tragic and Mark Hillis was summoned to carry the box. Late comers were targeted, ageism was pronounced, and phone use was frowned upon. Chris Nash was spotted enjoying a red after hours, and those who excercised were admonished for not using their cars!! Holden cars at that!
Guest Speaker today was Mark Hillis who spoke on the state of play in the Auto Industry. His very entertaining talk took us down memory lane, where a standard vehicle had no heater, no radio, and ran drum brakes, crossply tires, and definitely no seat belts. This vehicle represented 54 weeks wages at that time.
Today, five star safety is sought, with self tensioning seat belts for all passengers, 4 wheel disc brakes, alloy wheels, radial ply tires, high energy headlights, eight airbags and intermittent wipers among other things as standard. And this car costs 10 weeks wages or just a wee little bit more!
There are more than 54 marques available in Australia. This is the widest range anywhere in the world. Back then you drove a Ford or a Holden. The market has changed dramatically in the past few years.
Mark pointed out that commercial and SUV make up half of the Australian market and local manufacture makes up just 10%. Mark was quite frank in saying that his business had shrunk from 35% to below 10%, which is the reason he has taken on several franchises.
He quite rightly pointed out that commuters, squinters, were overly represented in the infrastructure spending of governments as these one passenger vehicles choke up freeways and roads; traffic that could better be serviced by rail.
This very interesting and informative talk ranged over the topics of product positioning, market requirements, and workplace relations. John Gray gave Mark a huge wrap in his vote of thanks, and a measure of the reception by the group was not one person moved even though we went well overtime.
From Left: David Foster, Wal Paton, Gerry Gerlach, Darren Wallace, Tim Macgillycuddy, Peter Mackinnon, John Ferguson, PP Andy Irvine, Paul Milde and President Phil McIntosh.
A good mix of youth and experience. Best wishes for 2013/2014
PP Andy Irvine presented a number of awards to members prior to handing over to Phil McIntosh.
North Wagga Shed: James Hamilton and Rob Pearson
Food and WIne Festival: Mark Hillis, Kev Roben and Tim Barter
Wollundry Logo: Phil McIntosh
New Member Introductions: Hugh Campbell and Doug Conkey
Bulletin Editors: Special Mention for Paul Murray
Club Member of the Year: Paul Milde
Paul has been Club Secretary for last year and this year and will continue next year. He has been secretary for the Food and Wine Festival. He has organised the science scholarships, wine and olive oil prizes and is mots often the last member to leave the meeting.
Attendance Awards for the year went to:
Wal Paton, Paul Milde and Nick Leywood 1 yr; Andy Irvine 2yrs; John Egan 6 yrs; James Ross 10 yrs; Neil Pinto 12 yrs; Michael Georgiiou 17 yrs;
John Smith 20 yrs; David Benn 27 yrs; and David Byfield 33yrs.
All awardees receive a set of cuff links from President Andy. Well done.
One of our younger members Peter Clucas gave a passionate speech about our club and its future, giving members food for thought. He described Wollundry Rotary Club as a landmark club, vibrant and on top of the leader board.
Peter said we have 78 members, by far the largest in the District and a large club by any measure. Of the 78 members, 17 have been members for over 20 years and the average membership is 11.5 years. We have a combined service of 911 years.
What's good about the Club? According to Peter it's the characters in the club. By implication he includes all members. Characters make character. That is what is good about Wollundry - the members.
We have a heavy work load in Wollundry servicing our markets and the food and wine festival. Peter believes it is important to get the balance between Club and life right. We must remember that we are a volunteer organization. In Peter's view Club should rate fourth behind Family, Health and Career. Club success should not be measured only by money raised but on happiness experienced in raising the funds.
Peter praised the work of the Social Committee, in particular the organisation of the Yachting weekend, the Talbingo weekend and Flying weekends. He encouraged more social events.
Peter said that his life was enriched because of Rotary. Strong friendships forge a strong club.
His speech, a forerunner to his introduction of Mark Hillis as a Paul Harris awardee, gave us pause for reflection and encouraged us to think to the strong bonds between members and how we can encourage a grow this aspect of Club.
Our New President Phillip McIntosh gave an inspiring speech after being inducted to the role by Past President Andrew Irvine.
Phil referred to Social Researcher Hugh Mackay in posing the question what makes a good life? A good life he says is defined by our capacity for selflessness and the quality of our friendships and relationships. Doesn't that sound like the opportunity afforded by Rotary.
Phil encouraged us to "engage Rotary to change lives" Engage our members first then our community. Every Rotarian has a role to play and has the opportunity to make a contribution. He referred to the many works of Rotary, especially the work with Polio eradication, to demonstrate the power that combined Rotary has.
Phil emphasized that we need to make measured changes to meet the needs of a changing world around us.
Lyn, Phil's wife was the first person he wanted to thank for her support, he then thanked his family and Kevin and Lyndall Watts for the introduction to Rotary. He also thanked John Smith and the changeover committee for their work preparing the event and John Gray for his great job as MC.
Our ever popular and competent MC for the evening was John Gray PP PHF who opened proceedings right on schedule and called on our Rugby choir members to lead us in Rotary Grace.
John then called on PP PHF Graham Burmeister to propose the Loyal Toast. Burmo toasted the traditions, hard won freedoms and life that we enjoy as Austalians under the Westminster System and so included toasts to both our Sovereign The Queen and The People of Australia.
Apologies and Makeups were read by PP PHF Peter Crozier
Apologies:
Rod and Robyn Kendall, Daryl and Maureen Maguire, DG Greg and Lyn Brown, Allan and Norma Sharp, Marion Roach, Hilda Bragg,Tim Barter, Craig and Gaye Bromley, Hugh and Heather Campbell, Doug and Wendy Conkey, Jenny Conkey, Ken Cook, Silas and Joanne Darby, Michael and Sarah Eldridge, John and Annette Flynn, Helen Fuller, Susanne Fuller, Dawn Georgiou, Angie Gerlach, Gioia Gianniotis, Lyn Gibson, James and Gina Hamilton, David and Kaz Hodge, Carol Ingram, Wayne and Maureen Jenkins, John and Liz Knight, Sian Leywood, Steve and Jessica McCoy, John and Kerry Mason, Col and Christine Mercer,
Make Ups:Michael and Jayne Merrylees, Kevin and Cheryl Moffat, Chris and Marj Nash, Pat Parnell, Kerry and Dianne Pascoe, Robert and Pam Pearson, Cathy Pyke, Brian and Michelle Roberts, Mark and Jamie Sayers, Dennis Shean Bruce and Joo-Yee Spinks, George and Kay Thomas, Malcolm and Fran Robertson. Alan Lloyd sent his best wishes.
Nick Leywood, Jim Gibson, Paul Gianniotis, Col Duff.
A welcome to Members and Guests was made by PP Greg Conkey OAM, PHF and responded to by Charter President Graham Hornibrook PHF
Graham reflected on the early days of the Wollundry Club, its achievements, its strength and the overall work of Rotary International. He was congratulatory in his delivery and proud to have been one of the instigators of this outstanding Rotary Club.
A Toast to Rotary International was given by incoming President Phil McIntosh.
Phil referred to the great achievements of Rotary, the need to do so much more and in particular the ongoing fight to eliminate Polio. He said that Rotary with its Worldwide membership and access to decision makers, is in a great position to continue to do much good in the world. All present joined in the Toast to this great organization.
In reply to the toast, PDG Ray King PHF spoke on the theme of the World President of Rotary International - "Peace through Service.
He referred to Rotary Peace Forums held in three locations Honolulu, Berlin and Hiroshima. He encouraged us to focus on Service. Service above self, making a difference in the lives of others. The work of Rotary is the work of Peace he said. Rotarians are Peace makers. Ray praised the work three of our Rotarians John Gray, Paul Murray and Paul Milde did in assisting with the Peace Conference held in Wagga last year. He said a book had been produced from the talks at the Wagga Peace conference and is available for purchase. He said there are no over 700 Rotary Peace Fellows and our Mayor has designated 21st September each year as Peace Day. Ray said Wollundry Rotary is one of the giants in the Peace Movement through its community work. Wollundry equals Peace in action.
He presented District Governor's Awards to John Gray for his involvement with Youth Exchange and to Paul Murray for his work as District Secretary.
Our Treasurer Nick Leywood gave a report on our donations for the year which totalled over $143,000 including a donation of $44,000 to the Wagga High School special education unit. Nick congratulated members on raising a total of over $118,000 for the year from our markets and food and wine festival. He said we still have plenty of funds in our coffers. Nick enjoyed being treasurer but was happy to hand the reins to Peter MacKinnon.
Sergeants Session
Despite a heavy schedule there was still time for our sergeants Peter Clucas and Mark Hillis to raise some funds;
Christine Hillis was fined for being late (very brave Mark), Lawrie (Kardashian) Blowes for being amedia star, Peter Crozier for being rescued from Mt Talbingo, Richard Braid for single handedly keeping the Advertizer solvent, Rick Priest the crime stoppers award, Michael Georgiiou for taking his beauty sleep every tuesday at 12.30 p.m., Alan Eldridge the Dalai Lama peace award?, Geoff Hamilton for causing climate change, others to be fined were Graham Burrow, Jim Gibson, Evan Robertson and Ken Taylor for flying below the radar.
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Our meeting ended with Past President Andy thanking our entertainers and all who prepared the evening especially PP John Smith PHF and his changeover committee. He inducted the New President Phil Mcintosh (see separate story) and then Phil conducted the balance of the meeting.
The Wagga City Male Rugby Choir, seen here conducted by Judy Ferguson wife of our President Elect John Ferguson, were our entertainers for the evening.
This choir is some 60 strong and is travelling to New Zealand and Tonga later in the week to perform with the NZ Symphony Orchestra and also for the Tongan King. They are booked to sing in Wales for the World Rugby Cup in 2014.
The Choir performed a bracket of favoourites including The Rose, American Trilogy, Nothin Like a Dame and Sloop John B.
A number of our Rotarians are members of the Choir.
Our Exchange Student Nelson Alvarado has the record for the most number of badges worn on a jacket. Nelson will be with us for another six months and is proving to be a delightful character.
Jim Gibson presented this session, and brought us up to speed on the International Fellowship of Cricketing Rotarians. The Australian branch holds tournaments around Australia on a regular basis with the most recent in Adelaide. World Tournaments come around every two years, and England will host next year.
In addition, when Ashes tours to England are on, a team of Australian Rotarians tour to the UK, and that will happen in July this year. Jim Gibson will be part of the touring party of 24, leaving on July 1. Included in the itinerary, a one day “test” in Scotland, and an “ashes test” at Exeter.
Jim announced that the most recent signing to the fellowship was Peter Crozier, and that Peter was selected as a tourist to the UK in 2014.
Peter Clucas chipped in to advise that another fellowship, the Motorcycling Rotarians, were heading of to Swan Hill this weekend for a session of golf, a big dinner and great friendship. He had booked for twelve, and had eleven acceptors, so there was a space for one more. Travel could be by bike, car or plane.
The Cheque presentation to Wagga Wagga High School, the proceeds of the 2013 Food and Wine Festival, was held at a school assembly on Wednesday 8th May, with around 900 students, including Nelson Alverado, watching on.
The School Principal, Michael Powell, welcomed the contingent of around twelve members of Wollundry Rotary, and Mark Hillis was also attending in his role as principal of Riverina BMW, the Naming Sponsor of the event. He explained to the student body that the school had submitted an application for help, been selected, and that students, teachers and parents had worked alongside the Rotarians for three days at the festival site. Michael noted the positive work done by Rotary in the community, and the theme of satisfaction through work for others.
Wollundry President Andrew then presented the cheque, and the students seemed to be very impressed by the size of the “dollars” involved. A presentation back to Andrew from some of the students in the special education classes followed.
Graeme Sayer was our guest speaker at last Tuesday's meeting. Graeme is a chartered accountant who has been a member of Rotary since 1981. He is a member of the Belvoir Rotary Club of Wodonga. Graeme is currently the CEO of both the Riverina and Murray/Hume Business Enterprise Centres. These centres were established in 1990 and receive both Commonwealth and State governments funding to advise businesses and create employment.
The centres employ four advisors from a variety of backgrounds, with special advisors employed in the key areas of accounting and marketing. These are the two areas which businesses have the most issues with. BECs have branches in Albury, Griffith, Deniliquin and Wagga. They provide great services such as Interactive Bechmarking; Valuing of Business; Business Diagnosis (Health Checkup). The service also gives access to 40 plug-ins to assist businesses.
Graeme final message was that businesses much use measures to ascertain how successful they are. Around 70% of customers leave a business because of indifferent service.
When something goes wrong, it is not the end of the world and rather this negative can be turned into a positive!
Service given to fix an issue means that in many cases these customers become your business' greatest advocate!
Peter Crozier thanked Graeme on behalf of the members.
Guest Speaker, Graeme Sayer-Business Enterprise Centre
The Sunday Market Committee trialled a "Kids Market". There were attractions new and old but no junior marketeers, maybe because of the holidays. Well done to Pete MacKinnon and his committee as there was a good gate with plenty of kids!
Brucey Pinney, a charter member of Wollundry was back in Wagga on the weekend. He was photographed by Michael Knight at the Sunday Markets. He remarked on the changes not only to Wagga but also to the markets in 20 years.
Malcolm Robertson gave a detailed report on eClubs. There are eight eClubs conducted in English, one eClub in its primary language and also in English and 6 eClubs in their primary language.
An eClub:
Has its own constitution which includes the Object of Rotary.
Must provide an online meeting makeup for Rotarians worldwide.
Must pay RI dues.
Must maintain a web page.
Must meet on a regular basis using available technology.
Must share electronic member orientation and training materials with RI.
Thanks to Mal for the report but with all due respect I think all members are most satisfied with our current meeting structure!
Our guest speakers at Tuesday's meeting were Di Mortimer and Chris Fitzpatrick. Di is the CCTV Project Coordinator while Chris is the CEO for C4 Wagga.
Chris outlined the core business of the committee:
Supporting and promoting Wagga to ensure growth
Identify and implement opportunities that will enhance the cultural, social, business and economic prosperity.
providing a platform for community, business and government collaboration to effect positive change.
Wagga is a member of the "Committees for Cities" movement which came out of Melbourne and is the only city in NSW involved presently. The C4Wagga committee has a long term vision for Wagga going onto 2030. The committee champions the City of Wagga Wagga; identifies its needs; provides a platform for positive change.It is currently assisting in the "Engaging Leaders Program" with the cooperation of the Forest Hill RAAF Base, Kapooka Army Base and CSU.The C4Wagga committee is also assisting in the CCTV program. In cities where CCTV is installed there has been a 75% reduction in anti-social behaviour. The Council and State Government have committed $400,000 with another $100,000 needed. The C4Wagga committee is seeking assistance on behalf of the community and has asked Wollundry for a donation.
Chilean Ex-change Student, Nelson with two of his "mates", Daringo and Paulo at last Tuesday's meeting.
Nelson was fined by the Sergeant for his performances on the dance floor with some of the "fair maidens" at the annual conference. Nelson likes it so much in Australia he is thinking of applying for citizenship. And after what was observed on the dance floor, I would say many of his dance partners are more than keen on the idea of having Nelson permanently here!
President Andrew welcomed 49 members and guests to Tuesday's meeting including guest speakers Di Mortimer and Chris Fitzpatrick from the "Committee 4 Wagga".
Andy gave a brief report on the District Conference held at Leeton last weekend. Wollundry had 21 members attend, the most from any club.The conference was a lot of fun but no awards were made. Next year's conference will be held in Orange commencing 21 March.
Andy urged all members to support this Sunday's Market which has the attraction of being the first "Kid's Market". Extra advertising and kid's attractions should ensure a successful day.
The new club shirts-the "white" ones has seen an order for 35 dispatched.
The Change Over dinner will be held this year on Tuesday 18 June.
Wollundry Rotarians were well represented at the 2013 Leeton District Conference this past weekend. The photo above was taken at the Saturday night Art Deco Dinner.
It was on last weekend...the Riverina BMW Wagga Wagga Food and Wine Festival...and everybody was there. Click here for more photos, courtesy of Greg Conkey.
Dick and Gail Smith were our hosts, and their pride in the winery that operates from their home was obvious and well deserved. The yard and home was a
great venue for entertaining, and the opportunity to wander through the vines before we saw the winemaking process added to our understanding of what “boutique” means to a vigneron.
Once we had split into two groups, Dick showed us the various stages of fermentation that occur to grapes with in a week of picking. The two vats undergoing fermentation were at different stages, and Dick was able to demonstrate the characteristics of each variety and level of maturity.
The equipment that Dick uses was fairly simple, and hopefully that means fewer things to go wrong. Dick made the point that his output is less than Casella Wines, but he doesn’t have the marketing muscle yet, and sleeps better at night.
The following are results from an OZ-words Competition where entrants were asked to take an Australian word, alter it by one letter only, and supply a witty definition.
Clearly, you need to be an Aussie to understand.
Billabonk: to make passionate love beside a waterhole
Bludgie: a partner who doesn't work, but is kept as a pet
Dodgeridoo: a fake indigenous artefact
Fair drinkum: good-quality Aussie wine
Flatypus: a cat that has been run over by a vehicle
Mateshit: all your flat mate's belongings, lying strewn around the floor
Shagman: an unemployed male, roaming the Australian bush in search of sexual activity
Yabble: the unintelligible language of Australian freshwater crustaceans
Bushwanker: a pretentious drongo, who reckons he's above average when it comes to handling himself in the scrub
Has anyone got any others they can think of? Is there room for a competition? Perhaps a bottle of red for the best contribution at next week's meeting?
President Andrew Irvine opened the meeting by welcoming a number of visitors: Graham Barrow, Alan Lloyd, Glen Cleghorn, Leuway Spinks, Carolyn Murray, Gail Smith, Kay Thomas, Kathy Wallace, Chris Hillis.
Andy reminded members that there will be a Club Assembly on 19th February. Main topic of discussion will the logo that Phil McIntosh designed and whether to incorporate it into our uniform. If members have any submissions to make on this or any other topic please send an email to Andy prior to the meeting. This will keep controversy and discussion to a minimum on the day.
Andy offered congratulations on behalf of all members to Lawrie Blowes who was named Citizen of the Year for Wagga at the Australia Day Awards ceremony. All agreed it was a well deserved award and Lawrie was loudly applauded. Lawrie wants everyone to know that the Barbecue that Wollundry donated is up and running and we will have a vocational visit to the site when the weather cools in the Autumn.
Member, Bruce Spinks gave an informative presentation to the meeting on the controversial issue of the regulation of the Lower Murrumbidgee Floodplain, the area bounded by Balranald, Hay and Maude. The area has shrunk in size by approximately 200,000 hectares in recent times.
The floodplain was formed around 30 million years ago as part of a much bigger floodplain. It has had a history of constant human occupation for around 50,000 years.
Early surveys were started in the 1880-1890's. Landowners concerned at the loss of water commissioned Sir John Monash, then an engineer to do a report on the loss of water through regulation and upstream development. Monash recommends that a minimum of five weirs be constructed to compensate landowners and reinstate flooding onto the floodplains in smaller flows.
Burrinjuck Dam is completed in 1925 for MIA development.
Two weirs are built at Maude and Redbank in the 1940's.
Blowering Dam is completed in 1968 to service the needs of the MIA. Lowbidgee landowners are informed that until the dam is filled they would not see water for ten years.
In 1988 the NSW Government halt all clearing and with farmer consultation implement the Floodplain Management Plan and create protected lands but with no water attached to maintain their viability.
In 2010 Lowbidgee receives an entitlement of 300,000 Megalitres which is the minimum on which to operate and represents 50% of what is actually needed. Remaining landowners negotiate to sell their land and water back to the Federal Government.
The Lowbidgee is the largest fertile self-mulching natural floodplain in the Murrumbidgee catchment. It is the largest organic area in Australia of which 45,000 hectares are cleared for cropping. It contains the second largest Redgum forest in Australia and is an important region for the breeding of native frogs and birds.
Bruce reminded us that " Floodplains are the lungs of the River".
He posed several important questions:
How is the government going to operate in this area?
What actual water savings will be involved?
What will be the ongoing costs of operating in this area and who pays?
What are the environmental outcomes?
John Flynn thanked Bruce on behalf of the meeting.
OIC, Michael Merrylees, reported a sensational team of 7.5 members, John Ireland, Craig Bromley, James Hamilton, Darren Wallace, Gerry Gerlach, Thomas Merrylees and Alan Eldridge. Alan was fined at Tuesday's meeting for turning up for duty when not rostered on-what dedication!!!!
It was a very quiet market with only 14 stallholders. Two new marquees have been purchased for shade.
The Scholarships Committee of Darren Wallace, Paul Gianniotis and Graham Burmeister were back in action discussing the administration of the various Wollundry Scholarships on offer.
Past President, Doug Sutton gave a report on the recent fires around his home town of Coonabarabran. The fires burnt out 54,000 hectares and 23 properties sustained losses to buildings and stock. The Rotary Club of Coonabarabran has set up a relief bank account through the National Bank of Australia, whereby assistance will be given to re-establish community facilities in the Warrambungles area.
It was moved David Benn and seconded Michael Merrylees thatWollundry donate $5,000 to the relief appeal. It was carried on a show of hands.
Doug is pictured discussing the recent bushfires emergencies with Jim Gibson.
Wollundry to assist victims of the recent bushfires.
President Andrew welcomed 51 members, one guest, Graham Barrow and former member, Bill Zachariou to Tuesday's Meeting. Bill is currently a member of Randwick Rotary and he was a member and director of Wollundry during the 1970's. Bill's contribution to the club were significant including the introduction of two of our finest to the club, Michael Knight and John Egan.
Michael Knight provided the entertainment at this week's meeting with one of his music quizzes. Each table was asked to listen to and name 35 songs and performers. Scattered through the quiz were questions of general interest/knowledge!!! Some controversy erupted after the meeting when Michael was "quizzed" about one of his answers. The singer of "You're the Best", was it Tina Turner or Jimmy Barnes?
Out of a mark of around 50, the provisional results are:
John Mason's table 40
Andy Irvine's table 40
John Smith's table 37
Greg Conkey's table 36
GJMPHKB table 31
one table-no result
Thanks Michael for another highly enjoyable and educational music feature.
The audited club accounts were emailed to all members and hard copies were available at the meeting.
The club's treasurer for 2011/12, John Mason presented a comprehensive summary of the main accounts and answered questions from the members. Some highlights of John's report were:
* Farmers Market Income of $42,000, a small increase on last years.
* Food & Wine Festival Income of $62,000. $42,500 donated to Micah House.
* Grants of $37,000 received, mainly to be used in the construction of the new sheds for the trailers.
* Returned Subscriptions to each member of $165.00.
* Retained earnings of $144,000.
John moved that the report be received. It was seconded and carried by the members.
John then moved that HMA Twomey Patterson be the club's auditors. This motion was seconded and carried by the members.
OIC, Peter Crozier reported that the markets were held on an ideal day. A great team of Mark Sayer, Mark Jenkins, John Egan, Alan Eldridge and George Thomas had plenty to say on numerous topics. A small market of 28 stalls, but an excellent gate!
There was no hot food stall so tea and coffee was offered to the stallholders from the Wollundry resources. Gail supplied muffins to the team.
A brilliant summer's day at the Wollundry Lagoon with a small market of 15 stalls but a good crowd in attendance. OIC, David Hodge reported an enthusiastic team of Pat Ingram, Geoff Breust, Geoff Hamilton, John Hawkins, Col Mercer, Mark Sayer, Ken Taylor, Nick Leywood and David Benn, hence to be known as the "Nimble Nine" had a record set up and pull down. Fellowship was enjoyed under "The Tree of Knowledge"!
President Andrew welcomed 47 members and one guest, Georgia Sayer to this week's meeting. Many members are still away enjoying their last days of their vacation before they start the grind of work for 2013!
Andy called on club members to assist South Wagga Apex with the organisation of this year's Gumi Festival. Assistance is needed between 9am-1pm and to contact Andy if you can help.
The HMA Twomey Patterson Twilight Golf re-commences this week at the Wagga Country Club. No report from our golfing tragics, but it is expected our two teams will be in the mix for the "big money" now that the competition is down to the finals stage.
Andy called on Doug Sutton for a report on this year's Rotary Peace Awards Ceremony. Wollundry is the organising club this year and Doug is seeking members' assistance. The awards will be held in the Victory Memorial Gardens on Sunday 17th February at 11am. Doug is asking for a nomination for a peace award from our club.
The Team. Doug Conkey, supported by Mal Robertson, Bruce Spinks, Geoff Breust, Rob Balding and Kevin Watts.
It was a very hot day and the marketeers were few. In the spirit of NewYear Doug granted them all a free day and went on to collect $293 from the gate.
Apparently this largess will not be carried forward to next Sunday!! The stall holders were very impressed, however.
President Andy welcomed us all back, ready for a New Year and the second half of his reign. After introducing Malte Rudolf, a guest of John Hawkins, he congratulated Michael Merrylees for giving up smoking. Well actually, Michael was "given" a new Harley for Christmas, and as he had given up the smokes, he rationalised that the money saved would pay for the new machine. (Certainly the lower health bills will play a big part too!) Mark Hillis decided then and there to take up smoking, with a view to future rewards!
Congratulations go to Alan Eldridge on getting his unrestricted flying licence. President Andy has added one more fully fledged pilot to his tally. Andy also reported that John Gray and David Benn
ran into Joe Allan and Margaret at the Cricket. Joe was principal at Wagga Wagga High a few years ago, and a member of the club. He sent his warm regards.
Doug Sutton is calling for nominees for the Wagga Peace Awards. If you have a possibility, please let Doug know as soon as you can.
Oh and one more thing. Our 6 monthly dues are ..due.
Also at the Meeting. Sergeant Geoff Hamilton proceeded to uncover a few hidden secrets. The usual suspects paid up because they hadn't wound their watches. Alan Eldridge confirmed that flying was an expensive hobby, and Michael Merrylees surrendered the price of a cigarette, quite cheerfully!! Wal Paton finally paid for his free New Year's Eve bagpipe concert, while Michael Geogiou defended his actions on New Year as saving a lonely lady (or two). Luftwagga Captain Smith was fined for holding a barbecue in 42 C, even if it was inside the clubhouse, and Pat Ingram has become a grandfather for the first time. Those in long trousers paid, and the one tied person, a banker no less, paid double. Many failed to get into the real spirit of Christmas and did not put up any decorations. Despite the John Gray protestation that it would be illegal to do so soon, he was still forced to pay up. John was even accused of passing a fellow Rotarian with a dire thirst at the recent fires, but that story can neither be confirmed or denied.
The camaraderie of this club makes it what it is, and this fine session brought out the best (for this year at any rate.) $104 is a pretty good starting point. Who was it said we might beat the Sunday Market total?
Two names were added to the Fellowship of Flying Rotarians this week. John Smith and Geoff Hamilton were given their "wings". There are a large number of similar Fellowships. Cricket is one, golf another and the list goes on. If you have a particular hobby or interest there is probably one to suit. It's a great way to meet new people from all over Australia and the World. Look them up on Rotary.org
Yep there's one for Mac users, too.
We received thank you from the Wagga Base Hospital, and a Christmas card from Lu-wei Spinks. She has had a fantastic experience.
We also had a brief talk from Malte who has just finished an Economics degree and is backpacking around the World. His view is that Germany is still a strong economy,
although there are some doubts as to how strong. There is quite a deal of distrust of the weaker economies in Europe and some Germans are angry that they are being called upon to have to support them.
Our guest speaker on Tuesday was our own PP John Smith. John is a beekeeper, also called honey farmers or apiarists.
John brought along hive boxes to show the members. Typically one queen lives in bottom. The entrance is at the front. Excluder keeps the queen in bottom box. John actually brought some live Queen bees along. He passed them around. (see photo). Queen bees live for three to four years and have a longer abdomen than workers or drones. Drone bees mate with a virgin queen. A hive can have 50,000 worker bees (all females) in it. When the hive gets overcrowded, the bees swarm and start a new hive.
John showed members photos of various stages of the growth of a hive and of the development of a queen bee. See the Photo album of the Nov 13 meeting for more pictures.
Rick McCarthy from the Bradman Foundation was back to run another very successful cricket day for children with disabilities. Gadarra School from Tumut traveled down to join students from Tolland, Lake Albert and Willans Hill Schools. The venue at Bolton Park was an ideal setting for a day of planned activities, followed by a sausage sizzle provided kindly by Wagga Wagga Rotary Club and culminating in a day of "Run Out Cricket".
Thanks to our "Cricketing Tragics" for their dedication and cooperation during the day. The bar at the Commercial Club was a welcome site at 4pm to rest aching backs and sore knees, but the smiles and thanks we received during the day more than compensated for these small discomforts.
It was a day that provided the very best of what Rotary in action in our community does so well! Click here for more pictures
Team – Well experienced and arrived on time
David Benn
Rob Pearson
Pat Parnell
John Egan/ Neil Pinto
Mark Fleming
Paul Gianniotis
Alan Eldridge
Doug Sutton
David Foster
Pat Ingram James Hamilton - OIC
Report • Glorious day, no wind, no flies, no insects, moderate temperature and full sun.
• Good ambience in the market area with Riverina concert band playing
• 43 vendor sites plus band site were set up
• First occasion where trailers were brought from North WW storage facility.
• Two new banners – one for the underpass at Tarcutta Street and one for Civic theatre Tarcutta street side.
Recommendations • Need 30 new clothe table skirts
• Maintenance on trailers - One of the trailers is making a scrapping sound which could be the brake touching all the time.
• Need some maintenance on marquees especially the ones where the legs drop down while carrying them, replace foot plates which are broken, and some pull rings need replacing. Takings
Banked $3201.95
Guest Speaker, Katrina Brown is the daughter of Alan Larcombe,who was President of Wollundry Rotary in 1998 -99. Katrina is the Riverina Representative for Heart Kids, an organisation that works to Support the Families of Children with Heart Diseases, reduce the incidence of Heart Disease, and reduce mortality from Heart Disease. They are not Government funded and thus are dependant on community support for the work that they undertake.
Heart Kids has operated nationally since 2007, and has raised over $1.3million. The projects undertaken include teen camps for kids with heart conditions, to provide respite for hassled parents. Travel and accommodation costs for families are also subsidised. Twenty percent of Childhood heart disease is attributed to Genetic causes, and eighty percent remain a mystery, and the variety of abnormalities is very diverse.
Katrina and her husband Scott have three boys, including Dougal, her third son who has a heart condition, initially diagnosed as a missing Tricuspid valve. This was detected during scans in Wagga during pregnancy and the family chose to have the baby in Melbourne to be near the support staff necessary for the condition.
The trailers' shed at North Wagga is nearing completion due to the tireless work by a number of members headed by chairman, James Hamilton.
An update includes: Solar panels, electricals and storage batteries to be installed commencing 15 October. Storm water and town water to be connected shortly. Internal wall for bay 5 for the Community Hall to be completed shortly. Final inspection by council will be done after the connection of storm water. It is intended to park two of the trailers in the shed after the Saturday Markets next weekend. Landscaping, front fence and an official opening will need to be set by the Board.
A pensive yet "hatless" Sergeant before launching into a series fines that had every member diving for cover and their wallets. Worthy of special mention was the Saturday and Sunday markets personnel,( Laurie, John Smith, Tim, & Steve) involved in the"tap key" fiasco!
The President, the Board, dentists, retired dentists and "pirates" all were fined.
Mark Hillis received a special fine for not consuming the bull which his wife ran into in South Africa. It was a special $1000 fine for waste! Mark also received via the Sergeant, a warning from Ministry of Fish & Wildlife, Mozambique.
Ministry of Fish & Wildlife
MOZAMBIQUE
WARNING
Due to the rising frequency of human/lion encounters the ministry is warning tourists to take extra precautions in the bush. Tourists are encouraged to wear noisy little bells so as to give advanced warning to any nearby lions and also to carry pepper spray just in case of an encounter with a lion. Tourists should be on the lookout for fresh lion activity and be able to tell the difference between lion cub and big lion S___. Lion Cub S___ has berries and dassic fur in it. Big lion S___ has bells in it and smells like pepper.
Our guest speaker today was Mark Hillis, “raconteur extraordinaire” and worthy of acknowledgement in Ripley’s Believe it or not.
Mark agreed with some reluctance to help his wife Chris’ realise her dream of a trip to the big game country in South Africa and Namibia. Mark openly expressed his fear of large animals and Africa is full of them. As he later revealed he came to meet up with one in a much closer encounter than he had anticipated.
President Andrew welcomed several guests including his daughter Jacqueline along with her friend Jack Tier. Other guests included Sarah and Eliza Eldridge, Emily Clucas, Kikaru Toyota and Hanna Ross.
President Andy reminded all to put the Food and Wine Festival 2013 in their calendars for the last weekend of March. He also suggested we note the 2013 District Conference set down for the first weekend in April in Leeton.
Several other important matters were also brought to our attention:
Vocational Excellence Awards nominations close 31/10/2012. Forms on website.
Little Big Day Out 4th October (see Secretary's announcements for volunteer list also for 8th October.
Food and Wine Committee meets Commercial Club Board Room Tues 9th Oct 5.30 p.m.
Peter and Emily Clucas, David Tier and Jacqueline Irvine, Sarah, Liza and Michael Eldridge, James and Hanna Ross
and Hikaru Toyota were our guests with their hosts at today's meeting
Makeups Andrew Irvine, Chris Metcalfe, Darren Wallace, Paul Milde, Michael Knight, Michael Merrylees, Nick Leywood, Dennis Shean, John Mason, Lawrie Blowes, James Ross and Kevin Roben.
Apologies Richard Braid, Geoff Breust, Ken Cook, Peter Crozier, John Egan, John Hawkins, David Hodge, John Ireland, Alan Lloyd, Phil McIntosh, Paul Murray, Chris Nash, Neil Pinto, Bruce Spinks, John Mason, John Smith.
Father and son Frank and Robert Fuller make a happy family snap at our Tuesday meeting listening to Mark Hillis' tall tales.
Hat Day is a Rotary initiative which contributes to research into Mental Health.
One in five Australians will suffer from a mental health issues in their lives.
It is our chance to raise awareness in our community while and also raising funds.
It is also a great chance for all the "cross-dressers" in the club to show off their millinery finery!
Wollundry Mental Health day will be Tuesday 9th October.
President Andrew welcomed 64 members and guests to this week's meeting. Andy especially welcomed District Governor, Greg Brown and his wife, Lyn and Assistant District Governor, Alan Sharpe.
Andy also congratulated two members of the club, Kerry Pascoe and Greg Conkey on their election to the Wagga City Council
Darren Wallace asked for members to consider hosting our new exchange student from Peru.
Michael Knight gave a brief but enlightening presentation on the Rotary Global History Fellowship and the various Rotary International Presidents since 1910.
Sergeant, Geoff Hamilton gave a brilliant display by collecting a record $93.70 and then won the wine draw! He was a lonely figure as he left the meeting, having lost several lifelong friends after such a performance!
Rob Pearson pictured at the new garages for the trailers at Elizabeth Street North Wagga. With the addition of a cement apron and some landscaping the new home for the trailers will be in use in the near future.
It was a cool morning with a fresh south-wester coming off Wollundry Lagoon. Many other events on but did not affect the crowd and stall holders reported a steady trade. OIC: John Knight TEAM: Alan Eldridge, Pat Ingram, Gerry Gerlach, Ken Cook, Wayne Jenkins, John Flynn, Steve McCoy. TAKINGS: $3,400.00
John Flynn and Ken Cook are to be congratulated on their diligence on cleaning up as they managed to throw out the donation of a bottle of olive oil. They managed to retrieve it!
Howard Mendel began his presentation with a short video with the installation of a Rota Pota in the village of Usu-Bemaco on the island of Atauro in East Timor. The Rota Pota is designed to produce clean water where communities have not access to a good supply, as it filters out harmful bacteria. It produces 50 litres/hour, enough for 15 people per hour to have access to a supply of water for their drinking and hand wash needs. Many diseases are harboured in dirty water such as cholera and typhus, but the advent of diarrhoea has the greatest effect.
Diarrhoea not only kills but it weakens, leads to malnutrition, effects school attendance, puts a burden on carers already finding it difficult to make a living and creates poor health in pregnant mothers where the whole cycle commences again.
The Rota Pota pictured was made by the Mens Shed at Monash in Victoria for a cost of $600.00. Howard is seeking the assistance of Rotary in the manufacture of the Rota Pota and so bring a supply of clean water to needy communities.
Peter MacKinnon gave a vote of thanks on behalf of the club.
District Governor Greg Brown and his wife, Lyn attended our Tuesday Meeeting. Greg had previous to the meeting spoken with the Wollundry Board.
Greg in a brief address to the members praised Wollundry for its vitality and the ability to attract new members in difficult and challenging times. Greg stated that Rotary faces major issues in an ever changing world with the process of change accelerating. He encouraged members to envisage the club through a process of planning from 1 to 5 years and to ensure that the membership remained active.
Blaze-Aid was given as an organisation from which Rotary can learn. Formed after the disastrous Victorian Bushfires, Blaze-Aid sought and got nationwide and then worldwide assistance to assist the victims to rebuild their lives. This expertise was then used again to assist victims when the great floods of the last few years hit Queensland and then NSW.
Greg suggested that Rotary can learn by this by encouraging non-Rotarians to assist Rotary, maintain contact and then assist them to become a Rotarian.
Greg closed by congratulating Wollundry on its wonderful achievements and service.
As our schedule guest speaker was a late withdrawal, President Andy persuaded one of our visitors, Duncan Farquhar to give a brief overview of his involvement in the wine industry.
Duncan's career began in Tasmania and he still has a small one acre vineyard operating with a friend's cooperation in the north east of the state. Duncan came to Wagga a few years ago to take up a government position as National Extension Manager for the Wine Industry. When funding for the position ended Duncan became the "stay at home dad". This position he has filled with a great amount of skill as his young daughter, Ella attend the meeting and was a delight and extremely well behaved!
Duncan explained that up until 1860 Tasmania had a thriving wine industry, but it virtually disappeared for 100 years. It has now re-emerged stronger than ever and is worth over $150 million to the Tasmania economy. To Duncan a wine must have the right mix of "Art, Science & Sport". The Harrison's Pinot Noir he produces is totally at the boutique end of the market, and is available in Wagga at Creche Restaurant and The Roundabout Restaurant. Tim Magillycuddy gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the club and presented Duncan with a vintage bottle of Olive Oil!
TEAM: Silas Darby, George Thomas (Defectors from Murrumbidgee)
John Ireland, Mark Sayer, Kerry Pascoe (Passionate Wollundrians to the core)
Cool start to the day but turned into a brilliant, early spring day. The day got off to an ordinary start when the OIC drove over the hot water urn-must have been really foggy!!!! By the time he had bought a new one, Mayor Kerry Pascoe intervened and bought everyone a coffee-could this be taken as bribery and corruption for the weekend's elections!
President Andy Irvine welcomed 51 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting. Guests included Graham Barrow and Duncan and Ella Farquhar. Assistant District Governor, Alan Sharpe from the Sunrise Club was also in attendance.
President Andy also welcomed back Peter Crozier and Frank Fuller from their tripping around Australia. Croz is now driving a vehicle with NT number plates after his old vehicle met with unrepairable damage. Croz has all the information about buying a vehicle in Alice Springs!!!
Rob Pearson gave an update on the Trailer Shed construction at North Wagga. The shed is now completed and only needs a cement apron, storm water connection and landscaping to be up and running.
Sonia Gee was our guest speaker on Tuesday and she spoke about the new ABC Open. This project is a regional educational initiative aimed at providing people with skills to use the latest media technologies and then submitting their results to ABC Open to be viewed by the public. To follow the link for the Riverina ABC Open page, click here or on the image of the Open website below.
Sonya Gee is a multimedia journalist and artist who is relatively new to Wagga Wagga and keen to get to know her new surroundings. Sonya contributed to Dazed and Confused AUS/NZ magazine and completed a newspaper internship in Seoul, South Korea before making the switch to multimedia journalism. She has been an online producer for SBS, working on ‘Insight' and ‘Living Black' and has contributed to a number of online arts magazines.
Sonia is the Riverina Producer for the Open project and conducts training and information sessions to educate regional people in the areas of digital photography editing, video editing, audio editing, smartphones, blogs and social media.
She presented three videos that were exceptionally well done. The first was about the Adelong Creek flood and the challenges for a local family. Then, there was a heart warming 30 second video of a boy and his grandfather, followed by a powerful short movie from the Aftermath Project detailing the Murrumbidgee Flood and the personal experiences of one couple.
Our Guest speaker at Tuesday’s meeting was Verina Walsh speaking on the topic Osteoporosis Awareness. Verina was introduced by PP Ken Cook and reminded us that this is Healthy Bones Week.
National Healthy Bones Week raises awareness of the important role calcium-rich foods, such as dairy, have in the development and maintenance of healthy bones and the prevention of osteoporosis later in life. The campaign educates Australians about the importance of developing and maintaining strong bones and encourages active steps towards a healthier bone mass through the consumption of a calcium-rich diet including dairy foods.
PDG John Egan delivered a heartfelt toast to Rotary International. He is being congratulated above by PDG Henry Gardiner who responded to the toast. John received a District Service Award for his contribution to the Rotary Foundation.
In his address John spoke of the amazing work that the 1.2 million members of Rotary have achieved world wide. He spoke of the scourge of Polio and the effect it has on individuals and families.
He asked “Can you imagine living for 60 years in an iron lung? Can you imagine walking with a stick dragging a useless limb behind you? Can you imagine having to beg for a living because you can barely stand, let alone walk? Yet this is what Rotary has avoided for thousands of people by your efforts, by your donations to the Rotary Foundation.”
“Fresh water is vital for humanity. Many live without it. Your efforts are changing all that for thousands. As one grandmother said: “After Rotary came, the children stopped dying!”
Outgoing President Doug Conkey welcomes President Andy Irvine as the new President of the Rotary Club of Wollundry for 2012/13. At a packed auditorium at the Commercial Club Past President Doug presided over a fun-filled evening of reflection on a great year for the club.
There were many highlights including total funds donated of $108,020 of which $42,500 was donated to Micah House a work of the St Vincent De Paul Society.
Past President Doug claimed a record for the donation and he set a number of records, his last being the quickest Changeover function which completed formalities by 9.15 p.m. Congratulations to Doug on a job well done!
President Doug reported on the Rotary International Convention held in Bangkok, Thailand.
46,000 Rotarians attended the convention and included 26 from our district. Doug and Wendy Conkey, John and Maria Egan attended from Wollundry along with District Governor, Ian Simpson. The theme of the Conference was change. There is a strong move to establish a Rotary that is attractive to younger members. (Maybe they should come and visit Wollundry!!)
Doug reported that John Egan has been elected to the board of Australian Rotary Health
Kev Robin, Chairman of the Food & Wine Festival is pictured presenting the cheque to Micah House representatives Allan Duffus, Pauline Black and June Sheather. The cheque for $42,500.00 will go towards the running costs of Micah House which provides around one thousand meals a week for those in need.
President Doug presented Paul Milde with the Wollundry Rotarian of the Year award for his work for the club and in particular for the Food and Wine Festival.
Alok Sharma was given a Service Above Self Award for his work with blindness in India.
Alok is from the Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga, and was presented with his award by Rotary International President Kalyan Banerjee
on the occasion of his visit to D9700.
Our congratulations go to him on a well deserved award
iday. For further details contact David 0439710716.
Many thanks to the members that attended the Tuesday evening meeting this week. We had a good numbers and quite a few guests, who all enjoyed dinner and a really interesting presentation from Jackson Strong.
Ronald McDonald Houses are a warm and supportive home where families can stay together keeping families close to their child with a serious illness since 1981. Ronald McDonald Houses are located within footsteps of major women’s and children’s hospitals across Australia. Our Houses provide a homely and inviting place to stay for parents, guardians, carers and their siblings while their child is undergoing treatment in a nearby hospital.
Wagga City Council has set sail on a new initiative with Wollundry Rotary, agreeing at this week’s Ordinary Council meeting to accept a generous $25,000 donation from the branch to fund the addition of a shade sail, signage, and new seating at the Victory Memorial Gardens playground.
We had very good attendance at this week's meeting, plus a number of guests. Great work!
We have applied for a District Grant to assist the organisation STARTS. PE David Post has seen a need to help refugee people move ahead both financially and emotionally and is seeking to supply sewing machines to the group. The application has gone in and we await the decision from District!
An old friend returned today for a visit. Ward Gator was the guest of PP David Benn.
David Golland, chair of the Scholarship Committee, spoke to the members about the award, stating that it will fill the “youth gap” in our funding which resulted from the closure of the overseas student program. Other members spoke in support, and also stated that the scholarship could be used as a flagship program to raise the Club’s reputation in the Wagga community.
be going to University in the coming year, something he had not thought possible.
PP David Pyke gave us a comprehensive summary of the finances of Wollundry Rotary . Suffice to say they are healthy. Very few questions were raised and the club applauded David's effort 
Paul Murray will be running a Zoom seminar on updating your Club Runner Details! The link will be sent ot to all members shortly.
Geoff Breust welcomed Jenny McKenzie, a palliative care nurse who works for Greater Murray healt District. Jenny trained as a nurse and after many years, specialised in Palliative care nurse. The previous week the Wagga City Council organised a successful forum at the Civic Theatre focusing on Palliative Care.
We did not have a Sargeant today so Noel Trevaskis (a bloody good Rotarian) helped us out delivering a story about our own Mac Armitage. If we thought Mac might have been a bit of a rogue, Noel confirmed it. Mac and Noel grew up in Finley and Mac (only about 10) and his brother decided that they would pilfer a couple of water and rock melons from the Italian neighbour farm. Little did they know that on their retreat to home armed with the melons, the farmer was also armed with a shotgun. The resulting shot scared the living daylights out of the boys. They dropped the stolen goods and scuppered home, only to be invited the next day to share in the excess melons from the neighbour harvest. Frank Fuller was not consulted on the best outcome for the Armitage boys, but probably would have congratulated them and told them to learn to run a bit faster.
He then proceeded to our Guest Speaker, calling on Geoff Breust for his introduction.
Scientist Tom Torento came to us via video link. This was set up by PP Paul Murray who, using his phone as a hotspot was able to bring our guest into the room, with great clarity and sound.
At this point, President Phil called on Robert Shaw for a brief input. A very enthusiastic Robert told us of his aims to get clubs going. He sees retention as the main issue, not so much attracting members but keeping them. Using technology to get speakers such as today is one method, even targeting and matching speakers with prospective members. Perhaps we could just invite people to a service project, rather than a meeting. All good ideas. It should be an interesting year.
PP David Pyke called on members who were attending Lillier Lodge this week. Doug Sutton is out of action at the moment and he is taking the role of coordinator.
for being a lay cannon and not a loose cannon.
Our own member John Smith, was Guest Speaker today, and to allow for an extended presentation, President Phil unleashed him early.
Peter Green and Rotary Information
Paul Murray learning the superior qualities of the Apple Watch from Neil Schirmer.
ry Club of Bowral/Mittagong to build a toilet block for the local school. The team of tradies included engineers, electricians, builders, lawyers but, alas, no plumbers which was unfortunate as most of the work was centred on plumbing.
James Ross was a bit short of Rotary information but took the opportunity to share with some of the early days of Pony Club in Holbrook. This was significant as the trainers were none other than Jim Hoy and son Andrew, notably, Andrew being selected for his eighth Olympics representing Australia in Tokyo in Equestrian. Andrew achieved two medals and is the oldest competitor to represent his country. Fantastic achievement. James remembers his Brother having a Shetland pony as his horse but the horse needed for James to be a little bigger (why would that be? ed).
Today guest speaker, Luke Grearly, was introduced by John Gray whose wife Norma had worked with Luke Grearly at the Wagga Cty Council many years ago. Luke left the Council entering private enterprise in the Event Hire business but retired from that industry and returned to the Council as Manager of The Museum of the Riverina.
Sofi gave an account of her year in Wagga Wagga including a power point presentation . She said that in January 2020 on her arrival she felt embarrassed not speaking very good English however, that has changed dramatically and her command of English is excellent. (It is interesting to note that many Wollundrians are very hard to understand at times, especially in the latter parts of events of a social nature)
Sofi did find the experience of heading off to school on a frosty morning and huge shock. A minus one in Wagga was a far cry from the temperate climate of Sao Paulo. During the Pandemic ABC National news interviewed Sofi about her Rotary Exchange experience and how she was coping with the drama's surrounding that time. As is her confident self, it came over so well.
The final meeting for December was another Ladies day and a send off for Sofi Seneme. We were fortunate that Sofi's Mum and Sister joined us on Zoom as did her Uncle, a cousin and a few Rotarians in Sao Paulo who sponsored Sofi on her Aussie exchange trip. All of her host parents were either at the meeting or on Zoom.
An important function was performed by President James. John Smith was called to the floor and was presented with Sapphire pin in recognition of continuing service to Rotary. Well done Smithy. He responded with a salute and promptly returned to his seat. There was no sergeant session as we were all more interested in the presentation from Sofi
Alan Johnston is the Chairman of The Committee for Wagga Wagga and was born in Scotland, on the border, in a town that actually had a beach, He grew up in Albury before undertaking an Accountancy Degree at the then Riverina College of Advanced Education ( a wonderful Alma Mater that now is Charles Sturt University.) Following that he took up a position with Coopers and Lybrand here in Wagga, along with our former club member, John Ashton.
Today was a very interesting meeting. We began firstly with Past President Pykie trying to bring the meeting to order with a "rendition" of Rotary Grace.That worked a little, supported by the Loyal Toast. He eventually muted everyone and set about checking on travellers. Gerry Gerlach had been to Noosa and spoke happily of playing golf, lazing around the pool and generally enjoying Angie's company. No one immediately tried to top that , until later when Doug Conkey waxed lyrical about the Sunshine Coast and wearing shorts and singlets!!
Mal Roberson were with him enjoying the view from beyond 4000 ft. The reception was as clear as a bell. Less noise came from the aircraft than did from Ward Gater's bar where several members congregated for a meal.
Despite the predicted inclement weather a really good market. 
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President Paul fixing our Rotary Banner....again.
A highlight of today was the induction of our newest member Shane Carroll.
Further to this is the Ride for Polio which is being held across the District. Wagga clubs are riding Lockhart, wagga Coolamon. You will receive a T shirt if you would like to be in it. Please see John Ferguson.
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he past. Laurie has provided David with all the information he has to help get this year's festival off the ground..JPG)
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Nick Georgiou
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Doug Sutton introduced our Guest Speaker. He has been involved heavily in the project since being requested to drive it by Marilyn Roberts, partner of PDG Gary Roberts around two years ago.
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Rotary Foundation has done through the efforts of members of District 9700. He referred to the Global Grant that has been awarded through our Club for assistance to widows and orphans in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Gary told us one of the initiators of the program in DRC, Dr Luc Mulambulimba Masururu, will be visiting our club, and other Wagga Clubs in September to tell us of the benefits of the grant for his people.
President Geoff.
Sergeant for today, Frank Fuller, was still on his game. David Benn went for soliciting business with the data base, James Ross for giving his new wife extra work to do by buying silver, John Egan for having to borrow from others, and Pat Ingram was chipped for his barbecue management style.
Rob Fuller was sergeant this week.
Willis gave the club an update on his host family arrangements, and his activities during the week. He will be living in Springvale with Michael Knight and Sandra until early April, after three months with Ken and Jacqui Taylor, and before his final hosts - the Schuters during April, May and June.
President Geoff invited PP Phillip McIntosh to the podium, and maintained a detached demeanour as he held up a document, and then announced that it was a letter from the Wagga Wagga City Council. 
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Guest Speaker was Bob Aitken, the roving ambassador for Australian Rotary Health
Today our meeting was a vocational visit to Kurrajong Recyclers.
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David Gilbey read two poems from his new book;
John Hawkins read the poem "Leisure" by English poet William Henry Davies.
Paul Milde chose the iconic poem from World War 1 "In Flanders Field" to read to us. The poem was written by a Canadian army surgeon, Lt Colonel John McRae after he had witnessed one of the futile battles on the Western Front in 1915.
Rick Priest read to us one of Banjo Paterson immortal works "Clancy of the Overflow"
Michael Knight read from "The Even More Complete Book of Australian Verse" by well known comedian and TV personality John Clarke.
A vote of thanks was given to David Gilbey. He then won the weekly wine draw with a bottle of Dick Smith's "Roosters Ghost"
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President Geoff welcomed all members and guests to Peter and Sharon Clucas' Riverina Ski Sports last Tuesday
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ust is membership month in the Rotary Calendar and I would encourage all members to consider asking a friend along to 'view what we do'. If you enjoy your time at Rotary then please remember that someone else may also like to contribute. Just as a friend of yours invited you along, please consider doing the same. Set your goal at asking just one colleague along for a visit during the year!
Corowa. so there will be a vey great emphasis on this area being a fresh processed food area.
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John said “The reason I am climbing Mount Kenya the last of a trilogy for me personally, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mountains of the Moon in Uganda and now Mount Kenya in Kenya. My Father migrated to Kenya from New Zealand in 1919 after serving at Gallipoli and the Western Front as an ANZAC. I could see Mount Kenya every day from my bed room. I am doing it to honour my Father and to raise funds for our beneficiaries.”
He also displayed a photo of Gerenuks. A Gerenuk is a favourite but rare antelope with a neck like a giraffe and they stand on their hind legs to get to the best vegetation. See photo at left.
our meetings was like walking into a Lions Den - was she confused about which Service Club she was attending? She knew better, and explained that Wollundry was her first contact with Rotary, and she appreciated the inclusion as a Family member during those days.
Jeremy opened with the leading questions about whether our kids or grandkids were fed, clothed and shod from the family. Sadly, not all kids in our area are. Not far from where we likely travel each day, unseen by us are families in crisis and kids are being neglected. They are without role models and mentors, and this is where Ignite fits in.
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President Phil indeed had the melancholy duty of informing last Tuesday's meeting of the passing of one of Wollundry's finest, Brian Roberts.
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Dr Keith Suter, well known TV commentator gave an
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Father Chris Riley at the conference giving his presentation about some confronting issues which exist in our communities today regarding sexual exploitation of children.
President Phil gave a detailed report on the current financial position of the club and the decisions for the coming year that we are confronted with if we are going to provide enhanced services to the Wagga Wagga Community and meet our national and international commitments as Rotarians. He gave a report on each of the club accounts and highlighted that we are tracking on target for our adjusted budget for 2013-14.
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Rob Fuller was called upon to introduce the first nominee, and that was Maureen Foley, employed by Dentist Gordon Saggers. See photo at right.
John Ferguson introduced the recipient of the second award to be made today. He called Jacy Dundas to come up to the front, and related that Jacy was the functions manager at the Wagga Wagga Country Golf club. Jacy is pictured at left with 
The clubs Christmas Party was at Geoff and Jan Hamilton’s home at Downside on Sunday. The location was stunning – a magnificent home set in a grand garden, with views stretching miles over agricultural pursuits involving tractors, headers, trucks and thirsty farmers. That didn’t seem to prey on the minds of the Wollundry party animals as they polished off their Ham, Turkey and Roast Beef, accompanied by ales, wines and various refreshments in the shade of the Hamilton garden.
Bruce Spinks has donated a wonderful hamper of Wollundry Grove olive products and Harefield pistachio products for a raffle. The proceeds will go to the relief fund for The Philippines cyclone disaster.
In a scene going back 50 years (at least!!!) we arrived on Sunday morning for the Christmas Markets to see James and Col on "playground cleanup" duties. It was a great job to have blow cleaned and raked the Myer car park before the markets commenced, something remarked upon by the regulars. Great job fellas! A clean up bill has been forwarded to Myer.
It was a "meal deal" at the home of Jan and Geoff Hamilton, with the Pinto, Hawkins and Sayer families attending for a great night's fellowship.
George Thomas presented an informative session on RAWCS(Rotary Australia World Community Service). RAWCS assists Rotary Clubs develop and manage projects to improve the lives and living conditions of others in developing countries in our region which extends through Asia and Africa.
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President Phil welcomed 56 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting, which was the AGM. A special welcome was extended to Charter President, Graham Hornibrook and Charter Member and Past President Bruce Pinney.
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Laurie Blowes was deputising for Mark Sayer, and told a vet joke. We hope that Mark has a short memory, or never hears about this story. Assistant Sergeant Tim Barter has reported that he is flying north towards the Gulf of Carpentaria on a fishing trip, and Laurie noted that he returned from the Melbourne Cup by Cruise ship, and took the call as he entered Sydney Harbour. Perhaps the auditors need to check whether the money we pay in fines is being is being banked into an appropriate account!!!!.jpg)
President Phil opened the meeting, invited Jim Gibson to lead the singing of Grace, and called on all to drink a toast to the Queen. He acknowledged that the program for this meeting was “very full” and that attendance was high as well – an additional table had to be set to accommodate all the members that had turned up to hear the poetry.
Our guests were welcomed, with John Smith introducing his daughter, Danika, and Mark Hillis had invited Christine along for support, along with Andrew Arthur who was to be inducted as a member of Wollundry Rotary club at this meeting. Phillip noted that some of our members had been involved, along with Christine Hillis, in driver training, naming Andy and Ken, but others were helping as well.
being constructed on the current Shelter Site and so the residents are in temporary accommodation. The new building should be ready in January.
Rotary information was given today by Peter Crozier
Laurie took the parade, and announced that this was his last Mediawatch based fine session – the same names kept coming up in the press. With artwork of a cash cow, coins appearing to come from Bovine hindquarters on the screen, the following media appearances cost a fine:
John Ireland, Darren Wallace, Doug Sutton Rick Priest and Tim Barter were targeted, but not all in attendance.
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President Phil welcomed 53 members and guests to last Tuesday's meeting. Guests were Dr Carl Newman, who was our guest speaker on Men's Health Issues, and our exchange student from Peru, Nelson Alverado.
Nelson congratulates our New Generation Director, Darren on his wine draw win!
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on Alverado were guests of the club.
Today we were regaled by Richard Braid. He established himself as a cricket tragic and Mark Hillis was summoned to carry the box. Late comers were targeted, 
Jim Gibson presented this session, and brought us up to speed on the International Fellowship of Cricketing Rotarians. The Australian branch holds tournaments around Australia on a regular basis with the most recent in Adelaide. World Tournaments come around every two years, and England will host next year. 
The Cheque presentation to Wagga Wagga High School, the proceeds of the 2013 Food and Wine Festival, was held at a school assembly on Wednesday 8th May, with around 900 students, including Nelson Alverado, watching on.
Graeme Sayer was our guest speaker at last Tuesday's meeting. Graeme is a chartered accountant who has been a member of Rotary since 1981. He is a member of the Belvoir Rotary Club of Wodonga. Graeme is currently the CEO of both the Riverina and Murray/Hume Business Enterprise Centres. These centres were established in 1990 and receive both Commonwealth and State governments funding to advise businesses and create employment.
The Sunday Market Committee trialled a "Kids Market". There were attractions new and old but no junior marketeers, maybe because of the holidays. Well done to Pete MacKinnon and his committee as there was a good gate with plenty of kids!
Brucey Pinney, a charter member of Wollundry was back in Wagga on the weekend. He was photographed by Michael Knight at the Sunday Markets. He remarked on the changes not only to Wagga but also to the markets in 20 years.
Malcolm Robertson gave a detailed report on eClubs. There are eight eClubs conducted in English, one eClub in its primary language and also in English and 6 eClubs in their primary language.
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encing 21 March.
Member, Bruce Spinks gave an informative presentation to the meeting on the controversial issue of the regulation of the Lower Murrumbidgee Floodplain, the area bounded by Balranald, Hay and Maude. The area has shrunk in size by approximately 200,000 hectares in recent times.
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Wollundry donate $5,000 to the relief appeal. It was carried on a show of hands.
the 1970's. Bill's contribution to the club were significant including the introduction of two of our finest to the club, Michael Knight and John Egan.
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A brilliant summer's day at the Wollundry Lagoon with a small market of 15 stalls but a good crowd in attendance. OIC, David Hodge reported an enthusiastic team of Pat Ingram, Geoff Breust, Geoff Hamilton, John Hawkins, Col Mercer, Mark Sayer, Ken Taylor, Nick Leywood and David Benn, hence to be known as the "Nimble Nine" had a record set up and pull down. Fellowship was enjoyed under "The Tree of Knowledge"!.jpg)
istance is needed between 9am-1pm and to contact Andy if you can help.
ohn brought along hive boxes to show the members. Typically one queen lives in bottom. The entrance is at the front. Excluder keeps the queen in bottom box. John actually brought some live Queen bees along. He passed them around. (see photo). Queen bees live for three to four years and have a longer abdomen than workers or drones. Drone bees mate with a virgin queen. A hive can have 50,000 worker bees (all females) in it. When the hive gets overcrowded, the bees swarm and start a new hive.
that works to Support the Families of Children with Heart Diseases, reduce the incidence of Heart Disease, and reduce mortality from Heart Disease. They are not Government funded and thus are dependant on community support for the work that they undertake.
zambique.
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President Andrew welcomed several guests including his daughter Jacqueline along with her friend Jack Tier. Other guests included Sarah and Eliza Eldridge, Emily Clucas, Kikaru Toyota and Hanna Ross.
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welcomed District Governor, Greg Brown and his wife, Lyn and Assistant District Governor, Alan Sharpe. 
With the addition of a cement apron and some landscaping the new home for the trailers will be in use in the near future.
with a fresh south-wester coming off Wollundry Lagoon. Many other events on but did not affect the crowd and stall holders reported a steady trade.
Usu-Bemaco on the island of Atauro in East Timor. The Rota Pota is designed to produce clean water where communities have not access to a good supply, as it filters out harmful bacteria. It produces 50 litres/hour, enough for 15 people per hour to have access to a supply of water for their drinking and hand wash needs. Many diseases are harboured in dirty water such as cholera and typhus, but the advent of diarrhoea has the greatest effect. 
from the Sunrise Club was also in attendance.
This project is a regional educational initiative aimed at providing people with skills to use the latest media technologies and then submitting their results to ABC Open to be viewed by the public. To follow the link for the Riverina ABC Open page, click 
Our Guest speaker at Tuesday’s meeting was Verina Walsh speaking on the topic Osteoporosis Awareness. Verina was introduced by PP Ken Cook and reminded us that this is Healthy Bones Week. 
PDG John Egan delivered a heartfelt toast to Rotary International. He is being congratulated above by PDG Henry Gardiner who responded to the toast. John received a District Service Award for his contribution to the Rotary Foundation.
Outgoing President Doug Conkey welcomes President Andy Irvine as the new President of the Rotary Club of Wollundry for 2012/13. At a packed auditorium at the Commercial Club Past President Doug presided over a fun-filled evening of reflection on a great year for the club.
Black and June Sheather. The cheque for $42,500.00 will go towards the running costs of Micah House which provides around one thousand meals a week for those in need.
President Doug presented Paul Milde with the Wollundry Rotarian of the Year award for his work for the club and in particular for the Food and Wine Festival.