Happenings at last week’s Meeting
This week we had the welcome return of Murray as the Seargent at Arms. He quickly got things in motion and called on President Mick to open proceedings. After the Toast and Invocation, Mick welcomed our Guest Speaker District Governor Elect for the new District 9815 Peter Behm and our Guest Anna Keramarios.
Marion was the Chair for this week, she read out the Apologies and then called upon Peter to address the Meeting.
Peter explained that, as DGE for the new District he was on a “meet and greet” to get to know all the Clubs in the new 9815. He spoke about his Rotary journey which began in 1977 as, as a compulsive club joiner, he saw a classified ad for Rotaract. (I think Classifieds still exist. Ed) He felt it gave him a cause and purpose, a chance to meet people and make friends and the opportunity to raise monies for good causes.
With Rotaract he became a Representative and participated in an exchange with Japanese Rotaracts. He made life-long friendships and loved the spirit of giving that is exemplified in Rotary.
After a break, Peter returned to Rotary took up the chance to show that donations to Rotary are not lost to Administration Costs. Also, as part of the work towards the District Amalgamation he is taking the opportunity to learn from the various Clubs he encounters.
Next, Peter spoke about Communications and Rotary. We have the means for External communications, such as websites and Facebook, and Internal communication such as the Bulletin. He was at pains to point out that we must take on the modes of communication which grab peoples notice. He recommended that the websites are populated with sharp and catchy photos as well as short video clips which catch people’s eyes and don’t bore them. Small You Tube videos are ideal for the Website and the Clubs Facebook pages. In this way the Club can catch people’s attention and influence how they see Rotary and the Dromana Club in particular.
Peter ended his talk by wishing the Club well. President Mick thanked Peter for his time and efforts and handed the Meeting back to the Chair.
Marion also thanked Peter and then called for the President’s Report.
Mick remarked that, even though we had a low turnout of Members last week, the visit to the Community House was beneficial. The Club may be in need of a replacement for Bernard (oh no, heaven forbid. Ed) and definitely needs a Bulletin sub-Editor for the end of September through to the start of November. (I’ve even written a fabulous instruction booklet if I do say so myself. Ed). Mick was also nonplussed about the fact that Directors are not making appointment within their committees. (All the load on one pair of shoulders? Ed)
At this point there was a question put by Harry regarding whether the Club would be having a BBQ at one of the voting stations during the Referendum? It was decided that Lyn would approach the Primary School to sound out the possibilities.
The Chair now called for the Secretary’s Report.
Mark pointed out that the AGM Report, from the Community House, mentions a number of Club Members as being involved. It was obvious from our meeting last week that the House needs better facilities to continue their great work. In addition he noted:
- The Club Meeting at Rosebud/Rye will be on the 4th October, and the possibility of partnering with this Club in future;
- The Sea Scouts will be attending one of our Meetings;
- The Picnic Table is still being progressed through the Shire, albeit at a glacial pace;
- The Refurbishment of a council house is also proceeding slowly but make be overtaken by the “Tiny House” option. The Board will discuss;
- The Regionalisation email regarding the Club joining a “group” (like a Cluster? Ed) was a little short on detail;
- Storing our gear at the Sailing Club may still be possible;
- On the 22nd October the Frankston Club is holding a Golf Day at $75 per head. Contact Mark for further details;
- The Thursday Girls are also holding a Golf Day. Also contact Mark for further details;
- Next Tuesday (12th) is the next Board Meeting.
Bob mentioned that the Dromana Community Hub Development had been mentioned at the Community House AGM. (Greated with some scepticism? Ed)
Tony announced that he had been trying to procure the plans of the Information Centre. The Shire is looking at establishing a committee to look at the future development of the site and have asked Tony to join that committee. He would like other Club Members to also attend. No matter what, our Club will be involved in the planning of the redevelopment.
Director Lyn spoke of an evening she attended the Dromana Specialist College:
- They had a guided tour which was very uplifting;
- The College have been invited to join our Market;
- They are trying to develop a “sensory” room, which is a $30k+ project, and they have many smaller projects;
- The Club needs to focus on more “Fun” fundraising. (Surely we can put our heads together on that one? Ed).
Director Charles noted that the Movie Night last year was a success but there isn’t one scheduled for this year. There have been some suggestions from Rotary International but none seem to fit so why can’t the Club come up with our own ideas? (How about a “classics” night? Ed.)
Rob announced that Rotary Health are calling for a drive for more funds for the “List the Lid” project. Also, Rotary Magazine are needed for dialysis patients to read.
Chris announced that Mation is taking on the “administration” Friends of Rotary Group. A questionnaire has gone out to the Market stallholders asking if they would want the “Xmas” Market on the 30th December. Response was 99% Yes. The Meeting discussed having either the Twilight Market on the 23rd or the Xmas Market on the 30th. Both is not an option. After discussions the Meeting voted for the Twilight Market on the 23rd.
(A joke was delivered but they never transcribe well. Ed)
Lotto was drawn and won by Murray (Welcome back! Ed).
We were running so late that Fines were postponed until next week.
President Mick thanked all Guests and participants (vocal Members. Ed) and closed the meeting at 8:10.
Better Late than Never.
These are a few photos from the Mock Interviews at Balcombe College that I had forgotten. Sorry about that Chief.
