September is Rotary's Basic Education and Literacy Month
Tristan Knowles - This Week's Guest Speaker
President's Message
I think we all enjoy a social drink and a chat on our early start meeting nights and this week was no exception. It was nice to see everyone catching up on the week that was.
Thank you to all who have volunteered their time to this Monday's (22nd Sept) Bunnings BBQ at Kembla Grange. The roster is full once again for what we hope will be a successful fund-raising day.
The excitement continues to build for our Jag the Joker draw at The Charles Hotel on Thursday Nights. With only 3 cards left, the odds are improving each week for the potential winner. Thank You to Dennis Simpson, the regular crew and the additional helpers over the past few weeks as the momentum continues to build and our team are kept busy.
At last week's Board Meeting the main topic of discussion was the Club's Donations Program, which has been almost finalised. Details will be reported to all at this week's club meeting.
Don't forget a few upcoming events that deserve our support.
- Illawarra Rotary Movie Night at The Gala - Thurs 2nd October (see below).
- Green Connect Farm fund-raising dinner - Friday 10th October (Details Here).
- End Polio Train Ride - Thurs 23 October (Details Here).
I look forward to seeing you all at this week's meeting with guest speaker Tristan Knowles.
Last Week’s Meeting Minutes:Scribe – Anne Christensen
An "Early Night" this week. Drinks and fellowship enjoyed inside this evening.
Sergeant Patrick opened our meeting at 6.17pm and President Phil welcomed everyone
Sergeant Patrick then called on members for reports.
Dennis reported on the Presentation of the Excellence in Vocational Education and Training Awards, of which our club is a sponsor, last Wednesday. Recipients of awards were: Jaiden Burke from Lake Illawarra High - Veterinary Science; . andClaudia Gaudiosi from St Mary's College - Business Studies.
Anne gave the Reflection - quoting four of Paul Harris' Reflections on Rotary.
Anne informed that PP Arthur has been transferred to Shellcove. Yvonne Roberts has made a book of photos and events of our club from the previous 30 years and has given it to Arthur. He delights in looking through this book, and anyone visiting can use this book to "entertain" Arthur as a two-way conversation is impossible. Alternatively, visitors can read to him or take him for walks, which he loves.
Jim's International toast was to the Rotary Club of Oslo, Norway.
Jim reported on the Pride of Workmanship Dinner and presentation night coming up on 5/11/25, to be held upstairs at Centro. There are six recipients, and it is expected to be a big night with many attendees.
President Phil reported:
- Race Day last Saturday was a great success. - BBQ still needs volunteers. - Polio Train Ride 24/10/25. Phil will be riding and hopes others will join him. - Corrimal RC is holding a Movie Night, Thur 2/10/25. Tickets ($20 & include a drink and ice cream) available from Corrimal RC or on the night. Funds raised to Polio Plus. - Green Connect Dinner at The Master Builders' Club, $100 PP. - Yvonne Roberts has expressed her enjoyment producing the Annual Report for the last many years. She now feels it is time to "pass the pen" on. Volunteers requested to take over the role. - PDG Ron Beslich passed away last week. Ron was District Governor in 1989-1900. Funeral details available from David Melville @ Sutherland RC.
The "naughty table" upheld its reputation throughout the meeting and were duly fined by Sergeant Patrick.
Our wine raffle winners were Marilyn, who drew her own ticket, and Phil Peckman, pictured below. Sergeant Patrick continued to deliver a superior standard of jokes.....
The meeting closed (about) 7.15pm.
Excellence in Vocational Education and Training supported by the Rotary Club of West Wollongong
Claudia Gaudiosi
Business Studies
Jaiden Burke
VET Student of the Year
Primary Industries Studies
This year Global Peace Day will occur on Sunday, September 21st. Global Peace Day is sponsored by the United Nations
“In a time of turbulence, tumult, and uncertainty, it is critical for everyone to take concrete action to mobilize for peace.
From peacekeepers on the front lines of conflict, to community members, to students in classrooms around the world, everyone has a role to play. We must speak up against violence, hate, discrimination, and inequality; practice respect; and embrace the diversity of our world.
There are many ways to act right now. Spark conversations about the urgent need for understanding, non-violence, and disarmament. Volunteer in your community, listen to voices different from your own, challenge discriminatory language in your workplace.
You can also speak up with your choices, opting to purchase items from socially conscious brands, or donating to organizations that promote sustainability and human rights.
The United Nations also works in each of these areas, leading global efforts to advance human rights, fight climate change, and prevent and respond to conflict.
