Happenings at last week’s Meeting
Sargeant Greg called the Meeting to order and handed over to President Charles. Charles called for the Toast and Invocation and then welcomed our Guest Speaker, Amelia Higgs, and our Guests, Debbie Greenaway, Roa Higgs, Carole Ross, and Sue Viney. He then handed the Meeting over to the Chair, Peter Collins.
The Chair read out the apologies, gave a brief introduction to the Guest Speaker (written by her father. Ed) and handed her the “floor”.
Amelia introduced herself. She is a lawyer by profession and always loved dressing up. In 2020 she was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer and, three weeks after the initial GP visit, she was being operated on.
There are various types of Ovarian Cancer. There is no early detection method and there is a 49% survival rate after 5 years. It is the most lethal reproductive cancer.
During her recovery Amelia came across Frocktober which is run by the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, an independent research group that is doing leading work in the area.
As Amelia said, her coping mechanism is humour, and she jumped into Frocktober with a vengeance and raised $14,000 in that first year. In 2024 she was made an official ambassador for the event and, to date, has raised $35,000.
There is now a clinical trial underway to provide early detection via a blood test. However, there is still much work to be done.
(I’ve included a photo of Amelia’s QR code, but if the reproduction is inadequate, I’m sure Wayne can provide contact details. Ed.)
At this point, Amelia took questions from the Meeting and then Peter presented her with a token of our appreciation and thanked her for taking the time to talk to us about such an important topic.
The Chair now called for the Presidents Report.
Charles announced that:
- The Trash and Treasure Market has been put on the back burner for the moment;
- Unfortunately, Michael Anderson has had to resihn from the Club due to health and family issues;
- Mark Long has agreed to come back from his leave to take over Miachael’s portfolio;
- The Parks Victoria refurbishment of the Dromana Pier is happening during the holiday season so is having an impact on the location for the Australia Day celebrations. More news to come; and
- Charles is involved in the generation of several grant applications.
Now was time for the Secretary’s Report.
Wayne had two things to report. Firstly, the annual Presidents “theme” banners are being phased out. Secondly, the associated theme badges will now be available but only is purchased by the Member.
We now had a lightning Lotto (won by your Ed) and Fines round.
Next the Chair called for Directors Reports.
Peter pointed out that the collection of power tools has been going well and thanked Merv for building a box to store and transport them.
Charles announced that the mock interviews at Balcombe College had been a success and felt that the year 9 students stood out as good representatives of the current youth.
Now the Chair called for the Behind the Badge talk.
It was Waynes turn this time around:
- Born in Devonport in 1956;
- Move to the small town of Wynyard when he was 7;
- Eventually ended up at High School in Devonport where he developed a love for hockey and got fully involved;
- After High School he went to TAF in Launceston and started a career;
- Back to Devonport to build a new home;
- After a divorce, set up a joinery business;
- Back to Launceston and worked as a Master Builder; and
- Eventually moved to Melbourne after remarrying.
The Chair handed the Meeting back to the President who thanked all our Guests. The Meeting closed at 8:00.
Moniques’ GoFundMe Page.
Monique spoke to the Club a few weeks ago. For those who are interested, here is a link the story of Quinn’s Place including a link to a GoFundMe page that has been set up to further her good work with local kids.
Don’t Forget the New Web Site.
Go there as often as you can, it’s important.
Thanks, from the SPCS.
We received a comprehensive e-mail from the SPCS but, to save on space, I’ve just copied the text.
“Hi Charles,
This past financial year more people have received the support they needed in what has been one of the toughest years we’ve faced.
One of the things that has kept us all going is YOU and everyone involved with Rotary Club of Dromana.
You’ve all been right by our side.
A part of a compassionate community of supporters, made up of individuals, businesses, community groups and organisations, who deeply care about the people we help. Showing your humanity and generosity for locals who are doing it tough or living rough. Helping us to deliver another record amount of aid and support.
Whether it’s fresh food, pantry items, laundry and shower services, connections and referrals to other services, case management support and assistance, you’re the reason we’re able to provide help where and when it’s needed.
Charles, the generous support from Rotary Club of Dromana of our work not only means we’re able to provide help where it’s needed, it also means we’re able to create an environment that makes a person feel valued, respected and safe when they reach out for help.
There simply are not enough words to express our thanks and appreciation for you. Just know that your support has been and will continue to be the difference.
Thank you for caring.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Maxwell, CEO
Southern Peninsula Community Support “
