|
In The Chair: President Peter Draper Members: 16. Including Ken Dachi who seemed uncertain about being at the meeting. Guests: Erin Draper, Tracey Morris, David Boots, Ian Draper Exchange Student Javian Niewöhner President’s Night President Peter thanked the Members and Guests for coming along to the evening. He expressed gratitude for being allowed to represent the Club and wanted to outline what the coming 10 months may hold for the Club. Peter explained that his joining Rotary was a way of releasing pressure during the millennial drought when he was unable to experience the joy of growing crops. Now, in his words ‘I want to give back, for I am extremely grateful for this club; for the fellowship and opportunities that it has provided.’ As he explained ‘It is also an honour to lead a club that has, for almost 83 years, contributed to making our community a better place to live, to work, and, to raise families. It is an honour to be able to lead such a wonderful group of people; the 23 incredible members (and often their partners) who give so generously through their commitment to the various activities that this club engages in. It also goes without saying that it is an honour to be associated with each, and every one of you, and how grateful I am to our members who regularly, or as time permits, contribute to making our club and community better. Being President is also a responsibility; and one that I do not take lightly. I am acutely aware that we live in an era where life is full of opportunities, challenges, and endless things that we could do with our time. However, the members of Leeton Rotary have willingly given some of their valuable time to this club, and I feel a responsibility to ensure that they feel, and know, that this time is well spent and appreciated. This will be a focus for me but for now, please know that I do appreciate your involvement in this club.’ He said he was keen to explore the theme of Rotary International President Gordon R Mcinally – Create Hope in the World’ He went on to show a YouTuble clip (with Javian’s help). It really is worth watching. Peter then described how we may be able to create hope as individuals and as a club. Aspirations included a strong bond of fellowship; by adding opportunities to engage with each other at a more informal and social level. We were provided with the opportunity to say, in writing, what our aspirations are for the coming Rotary year. This was enhanced by chocolate frogs. Peter concluded by playing a clip from RI President Gordon Mcinally. Also, well worth watching. (Editors Comments: This was a very engaging and inspirational President’s night. There was plenty to think about and I am sure all felt inspired by the well-planned meeting. The evidence was in the way members and guests stayed around for a period of discussion and ‘social time’.) |
