Presidents Report

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 5^th 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.