Acting-Sergeant Merv called the meeting to order and our new Secretary, Mark Long, was announced.
President Greg reported that as well as his putting in an application to the council for a grant for Halloween, Bob has also put in for a grant for Carols. It seems that this has caused some controversy because the council do not allow for two grants to one organisation and the traffic plan for the Carols is not good enough, even though it is the same as the Market plan. Sadly our lives are subject to bureaucracies.
Bernard had the Chair this week and called on Secretary Mark for his report.
Secretary Mark announced that we had received a flyer from Care Flight and he would take a request for donations to the Board for discussion.
Bernard read out the apologies.
Harry quickly announced that his son would be receiving his prognosis in a day so that he would then know what his near-future commitments would be.
Bernard called for the Lotto draw which was won by John (again?).
(As you may have noticed, the run sheet for the meeting is an “ambition” document and one that is not always followed to the letter. Ed.)
Next, it was time for the TMG which this week was, willingly (?), delivered by Lyn. Her subject was a recent trip she had undertaken starting with Adelaide and the Flinders Ranges.
Lyn found the Ranges to be beautiful and unspoiled but still very accessible. She noted how cold the Bass Strait is but proceeded on to Parachilna, the town and the gorge. The area was pristine and, not having a 4wd, decided to return via the Gorge. The advice received was that it was possible however they were confronted with rough roads and water crossings. This provided a very exciting part of the trip and gave her a sense of adventure.
In summary, Lyn feels that inland Australia is quite spectacular and well worth taking a trip.
Bernard thanked Lyn and then called for Fines. These were handed out to all the members with a birthday this month. (I recon’ that Merv is getting a bit desperate. Ed.)
Bernard now called on Directors for their reports.
Mick apologised for the lateness of the Market flyers, human error. He will be attending the Market.
Lyn reminded all the volunteers for the Mock Interviews on Thursday 10th November.
Merv called for a count of those attending the 50th Anniversary Dinner.
Harry confirmed that he remains our “seat” for 9820 and is still the Director for International. He will also be at the Market.
Next, we had a pleasant surprise when Ravindi Paragahatota Liyanaga was introduced to the meeting. Ravindi didn’t know she was going to be asked to speak and had not made any preparations. However, she gave us a snapshot of her life. She was born in Australia but still has her extended family in Sri Lanka. She spoke about their struggles with water and power and gave a big thank you to Rotary for all the help we are able to provide. Lastly, she offered her help to us if we need any assistance in navigating any Sri Lankan issues or have any questions.
On behalf of the meeting Bernard gave Ravindi a big thank you.
Chris now gave his Market update:
- Thank you to Charles and Rob for organising the Fruit and Veg’ supplies and working out pricing;
- The locations for the new stalls have been set;
- Unfortunately there will be no band this month but they are expected in the future;
- We are continuing the provision of stalls for local charities;
- We have received a request for a stall from the Department of Health as part of their community survey; and
- More volunteers are always needed.
Apropos of the recent international focus on a funeral in the UK, Chris gave a short story of his times at Buckingham Palace. An old friend of his had become a chef and landed a job working for the royal family. He contacted Chris and asked him if he would like to visit? On receiving his invitation Chris dutifully went through the various security “gates” and was welcomed to his friends “workplace”. His friend also Chris went a number of times and the recent vision from London brought it all back.
Greg thanked our Guests and all attendees. Bernard closed the meeting at 8:05.
