In 2010, George was diagnosed with cancer, the diagnosis leaving him with time for reflection and to explore new ideas. With a true love of Australian history, he began painting Australian portraits and subsequently published two books; firstly, in 2020, “The Art Of Sacrifice – a haunting and poignant exploration of a spirit like no other: the Anzac Spirit.”
Subsequently, with time standing still during lockdown, he turned his interest to his latest publication, ‘The Art of Humanity’. In this, he explores extraordinary stories of great Australians, depicting their inspirational and selfless acts through his striking portraits. He explained his passion for sharing people’s stories; stories that he chooses to retell through his art, In 'Humanity', he tells forty different, extraordinary stories. Each section of the book is dedicated to different themes, like 'Wonder Women of WW1' or ‘Australians of the Year’. George sells or auctions off the works to give money back to particular charities and to cover costs; someone bought all five of the 'Australian of the Year' works for $50k; an upcoming event in Canberra will see these on display.
George has a supply of books for sale; these are beautiful hard copy volumes, true collector items valued at $85 and $75 respectively. More information on George’s extraordinary work can be found on his website www.georgepetrou.com.au
Directors' Reports
Mark: We have paid the $1400 membership to DIK which takes us to the end of June.This means we will need to decide what we want from the warehouse; Merv will explore this.
Charles: Charles expressed concern that we may have all our fundraising eggs in one basket and has suggested the possibility of a Trash and Treasure Market to possibly be held at the Dromana Drive-In. Charles, Chris, and Tony are exploring this.
The question of where does our money actually go was raised and Mark explained; The Community House, South Peninsula Community Support, and the overseas portfolio amounting to 30-40k a year.
Wayne: A great night was had at the Main Ridge Lawn Bowls Club, apparently a great venue! There was some mention of Charles’ bowling skills but we will need to explore that one some more ;)
Pauline: Pauline came across a worthwhile project that she would be keen for us to explore some more. Quinn’s Place in Mornington was established a few years back by Monique Story Briglia after losing a son to mental illness. Monique’s mission is that no child should feel alone. Her venue offers a Friday night space for teenagers 13-17 to hang out and establish friendships. She works on donations. We have invited her to speak to us and the proposed date is 27/8. Pauline suggested that we could possibly initiate one in Dromana, even once a month would give our youth somewhere to go and something to do. Venues like this, keep kids off the street. Wayne suggested a link up with Rick from the MANA Youth Project in Capel Sound, perhaps the two could complement each other. More on this at the next meeting.
Wayne: Wayne asked us to reflect on why we joined Rotary in the first place? He reminded us to think about what we can do for the greater good. It is important not to lose sight of our original objectives.
Greg: Reported on the Tiny House Project; we have reached our target to start the build which is very exciting! Congratulations to all. He explained that the Salvation Army will manage the house and choose the recipients.
Dear Members, this is my first Bulletin and I hope I have got it right, apologies if not. Andrew does a fabulous job and I look forward to his return ;)
Harry’s role in the Club is as our Almoner. He is the Clubs “social service” provider, and it is a position that requires that he is up to date on any “challenges” that have affected our Members.
Please keep him in the loop.
