Our very own Tony Heading shared with us information about Polio and Rotary's incredible work to rid the planet of this devasting disease. Several members of the Club have had some experiences with Polio - such as Kath and John - who both have fathers who are polio survivors. Ongoing awareness of the disease and Rotary's efforts at eradication are very important and we were fortunate to have Tony present. An excellent video presentation was shared and in particular, the comment that Rotary's “ability to persuade governments and world agencies is a very special and significant achievement of the organisation globally” was rather compelling. Thank you Tony for the presentation and to Rotary more broadly for the global efforts over so long!

There are plenty of upcoming opportunities to contribute to the good work of our club. Our Bunnings BBQs and the Duck Race, both need as much assistance as you can give.
It promises to be a busy and enjoyable meeting this week (22.10.26), with some visiting Rotarians (including DG Deb) & our guest speaker, Senior Sergeant Brad Rix. Let's make it a well-attended meeting!
International Toast
This week, the International Toast was proposed by our very own ‘International’ - our exchange student Luci. Not surprisingy, Luci toasted her sponsor Club in Argentina - the Humboldt Rotary Club. A small club, but one that has made great contributions to its community, with a ‘best classmate’ program and a wheelchair program, to name just a couple.
Club News
Members sent birthday wishes to Gae, whose birthday is on the 21st. The club also congratulated Richard Diaz on seven years of Rotary service and Leon Robello on five years. A visiting Rotarian from Mackay is expected to drop in soon.
Container Project
Bren is organizing a container shipment to East Timor, with a target departure of December 1. Swires has offered free freight for the Brisbane-to-Singapore leg, which could reduce shipping costs. Bren welcomed recommendations for a reliable real estate agent or valuer as he works to prepare his mother’s house for sale.
Club and District Business
The District AGM is scheduled for November 14 in Tugun. President Vicki and Past District Governor Andy were proposed as the club’s voting delegates. The club’s AGM will be held on December 3; members were encouraged to consider board roles, particularly the president-elect position.
Duck Race Fundraiser
Planning is underway for the expanded duck race, which will include a stand-up paddleboard race and a new dress-up duck competition. Organizers are arranging split volunteer shifts to provide coverage throughout the day. Fifty-nine small ducks had been sold at the time of the meeting, and members were encouraged to help promote sales and fill roster gaps.
Awards and Social Events
The club was shortlisted for Club of the Year at the McPherson Awards; the award went to the CWA. Members also congratulated Kath on her Spirit of McPherson Award recognition from last year.