Happenings at last week’s Meeting
President Mick began the meeting by introducing our Guest Speaker, Julie Fisher and inviting her to the lectern. Julie is an Autor, Keynote Speaker, Disability Advocate and provides Family Support Services. Her key area of involvement is as a Mum of three boys, one of whom has Down Syndrome.
She was 37 when she was pregnant with her 3rd child and the measurements conducted for DS were inconclusive at that time. Her advocacy role began at 15 weeks pregnant because she found there was a significant lack of support and information for mothers and families.
In her case all her family and friends were prepared and supportive of the new baby. However, she had to learn to cope with the staring, pointing and rude remarks that come from some members of the public. She had to learn to turn these negatives into positives and took heart from a quote from Dr. Suess “People who matter don’t mind and people who mind don’t matter”.
She wonders what the actions of some parents does as regards setting an example to their children. Her son, Darcy, is now old enough to notice bad behaviour and ask questions. Parents need strategies to be able to cope with the various stages in life. Julie feels that the NDIS does provide some help.
As these special children grow they need work skills and training is essential for their futures. Teaching life skills works both ways from Parents to Kids and visa versa.
Julie has written three books, and pointed out that there are many more to help new parents, and her web site is called “An Unexpected Journey”. She spoke passionately about the pleasures to be had from living with a child with a disability. There is a Disability Expo in Langwarrin later in the Year so please watch out for that.
After some questions from the floor, Mick thanked Julie for her uplifting talk which was endorsed by the Members.
Mick now read out the apologies. (Having had a bit of a challenge to get the microphone working, not helped by technical comments like “turn it on”. Ed.)
After dinner Mick proceeded with the Presidents Report:
- At the last Board Meeting, Rob Alexander resigned from the International Directorate, and was quickly followed by the appointment of Agnes Smith to that role (I wonder if El Presidente did any arm twisting? Ed.);
- Queried where to obtain Rotary Xmas Cakes, and was informed that Rotary Box Hill is the place; and
- Pointed out that Vietnam Vets Day is coming up and it is hoped that the Cluster will look at larger commemoration next year.
Next, it was the Secretary’s Report from Mark:
- Board Minutes are on ClubRunner;
- Appointment of Committee Members is still to be completed;
- Our AGM in November will be held at the Sailing Club;
- Our meeting on the 4th October will be at Rosebud/Rye;
- The meeting at the Community House is still to be organised and a volunteer is required to attend their AGM on 4th September;
- Our District Governor will be attending our next Meeting (Dress well. Ed); and
- The challenges raise by our visit to the Southern Peninsular Community Information Centre are to be discussed further but an approach is to be made to the Shire about Rotary taking on the maintenance of a house.
The Treasurers Report is short and will be e-mailed to all Members. In summary:
Club account income $9,900.64 & expenses $4,500.63 for July.
Project account income $3,093.59 & expenses $3,489.32 for July.
The July Market made a net profit of $1,171.25, even with some long term expenses being paid in July.
Mick asked for any Members Reports:
- Adrian asked for Members to forward Guests contact details to him; and
- As the 18th August is the anniversary of Long Tan, Adrian asked for any ideas regarding the commemoration next year and for any volunteers.
(Cindy quickly jumped in here to thank Merv and Rob for staying last week to keep her company while the RACV changed a flat tire. Heroes!!)
Now it was Lotto, drawn by Julie and won by Merv. (It took a while for Merv to work out the difference between 37 and 7 but we got there eventually. Ed)
Murray conducted the Fines session covering:
- Badges (an old favourite. Ed.);
- Talking (that’s you Agnes, Chris, Merv and Mike. Ed);
- Ann having her house lit up at night (not sure on this one. Ed.);
- Our new International (Volunteer) Director (Yeah again Agnes!!. Ed.);
- A “coming back tax” for Elaine; and
- “Fines From The Floor” caught Chris and Mark for being late for the Toast (first time being late for a drink?? Ed).
Bob now gave an update on the revitalisation of the Community Garden. Marion has been voted in as Vice President, Charles is on the Committee and Elaine has been seconded to the Committee by proxy.
President Mick thanked all those who attended but noted that attendances at our meetings is a bit of an issue. Hopefully, this is just due to winter absences.
Don’t forget that the District Governor is our Special Guest next week. The meeting closed at 7:55.
