Stories
From a lower rate of 15%, to as much as 96% of children in schools don’t get breakfast. More than 40% don’t have lunch. Combine that with the stigma attached to wearing a second-hand uniform when starting the first year High School... well, there is no need to greatly elaborate. John’s Rotary Club has established a program in conjunction with the local schools (since promoted to many other schools in the vicinity): This is how it works and why it works: the Rotary club communicates with the Headmaster to identify what is needed (not which kids need help). Not just food, but also uniforms, shoes, learning materials, access to special programs or events and activities that are out of a family’s financial reach. Individual children are NOT identified, as goods (or food) are purchased and distributed by the school. The club organises the financing and liaises with the school. In the Download section (top right-hand side), you can find a detailed PDF of the School Mates program. Spend a bit of time studying and evaluating it. It makes sense, it is effective and is a program well worth adopting, because it produces results. (Photo: John Walters (on right) with our Meeting Chairman of the day, Ray Higgs) |
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Foundation Committee meets to prepare for grants in 2025-26The Foundation committee met 5th April 2025 to discuss and debate both District Grant and Global Grant applications for this incoming Rotary Year. We are now in process with Fundraising Director Ross Augustine kindly collating a District Grant, due 31 May. With assistance from Wheelchair Trust Chairman Geoff Croad collating numbers and details and any of us with anything else needed to fill in any gaps. The focus of the District Grant is to order additional materials for manufacture of the wheelchairs - additional materials as the purchase/expenditure would need to be around July AFTER the district Grant is approved and provided, with our matching funds. BIG BIG thanks to Ross and Geoff. Global grant application - as it stands, consideration of applying for a Global grant is on pause as we deliberate short term, medium term and long term considerations for both the Shed and Club member/volunteer involvement. We can apply for a Global Grant anytime of the calendar if we decide to go ahead. The Foundation committee will meet again in a couple of months to discuss both
Earnest consideration of number two is necessary in light of particular matters raised. Such as,
Elizabeth Celi, Foundation Director. |
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District Leadership personalities visit our Project ShedWhat is the collective noun for a group of top level Rotary leaders? Whatever it is, we were honoured today by the visit of District 9640 and Rotary International leader personalities, taking time out from this weekend's District Conference to visit our Project Shed. Wheelchair Trust Chairman Geoff Croad (centre at back) welcomed District Governor Lisa Hunt (3rd from right at back), District Governor Elect John Oomen (4th from right) and his partner Narelle (front left), as well as PDG Jennifer Scott (front right) and her husband Ian, who are representing RI President Stephanie Urchick. Welcome to the Surfers Sunrise Project Shed! |
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Last week's guest speaker: Angie Bell MP![]() Naturally, as a member of the Liberal Party, Angie touched on her party's policies, details of which can be downloaded from the party’s website. However, in view of Rotary’s strict policy of remaining politically neutral (with which I’m in full agreement), no details should be mentioned in this report. On the local scene, Angie formed the ‘Moncrief Community Cabinet’ and the ‘Gold Coast Youth Cabinet’. Both are designed for a simple and straight purpose: to hear the views of representatives, “real” representatives, of her community. Coming up again on the last weekend this month, for several years now she has organised ‘Impact Gold Coast’, a Youth Summit, which will again together 200 young people, representing various demographics from across the Gold Coast. For our club, Angie was instrumental in helping us to obtain several grants; a major one was to enable the purchase of a new electric forklift for our project shed. Thank you, Angie, for the work you do for our community and the nation at large. (Photo: Angie Bell MP with Past President Doug Lipp) |
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Handover of Gym equipment at the PCYC![]() (Photo: some of our members, with Sgt Cherie McLean (front row, 2nd from left) and Stacey Ambrose (4th from left) So you are wondering where all the money goes we raised at the last Golf Day? Well, a very substantial portion of it (together with a matching grant from the Rotary Foundation, via the District 9640) went towards purchasing some $7,477 worth of badly needed gymnastic equipment for our local Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC). At last Wednesday's presentation, Sgt Cherie McLean cooked us a pile of yummy Egg & Bacon rolls... Thank you, Cherie! Here is a summary, of the comments by Sgt Cherie McLean (Manager of the PCYC) and Stacey Ambrose, the Club Manager: "We especially loved being able to hand pick the items for purchase, as it allowed our Gymnastics Program Leader to order items that were identified as crucial to our program. Some items purchased were to add to our supply of coaching aids. These items have provided our gymnasts with a variety of learning aids which have enhanced their learning experience, and enabled them multiple ways to practice skill technique. Some items were purchased to accommodate the incredible growth our gymnastics program has experienced. In the last 12 months, our program has grown from approximately 135 gymnasts, to this week 233 gymnasts! The additional items have meant we can accommodate more participants on the floor at any given time. The two big mats were purchased to complete the fit out of our gymnastics floor. We were using older mats that really were not ideal for the area under our junior rings as they were too soft and smaller in size. The new mats are designed specifically for that apparatus which has improved the safety of the area. The PCYC Gold Coast are very grateful for the support from Surfer's Sunrise Rotary, and look forward to other opportunities to support each other in the future. (Check for more photos in the Photo Album section on the right) |
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Chanelle Morris: Empowerment is the Answer
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Big shipment of hospital beds and wheelchairs to Fiji![]() Also yesterday a number of our members assisted in loading our ute & trailer with the the remaining 3 pallets of 36 wheelchairs plus a number of white boards, being part of the shipment to Fiji. With the assistance of Bryan Tuesley, Rick Old and Rick Parry, the balance of 3 medical beds , 3 mattress and 64 'Rough Terrain' wheelchairs were loaded on to another truck this morning. Rick Old and myself delivered them to RAWCS/RARE at Alexandra Hills, to be loaded into the container with the 18 beds etc for shipment to a Hospital in Fiji. This is a joint project with the Archerfield Rotary Club who provided the 40ft container organised by Ray Deen and also John Paskin Manager of RAWCS/RARE Alexander Hills who is organising the shipment of the Container, with 21 Hospital Beds & 21 Mattress plus 100 wheelchairs. I would also like to thank all the members of the Surfers Sunrise Rotary Wheelchair factory for their full support and dedication in the manufacture of these wheelchairs. (Picture, by Geoff Croad: John Thompson, Brendan Aspery, Don Ferguson, Rick Parry. More pictures on our Facebook page) |
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New Sawdust Vaccuum at the project shed![]() |
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Bikes for St John's Crisis Centre![]() |
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Great Christmas breakfast![]() Great Christmas breakfast was had this morning at the Spit Restaurant. (So I'm told by President Andy Bell - regrettably your Editor wasn't able to attend this year). Here are a heap of photos sent to me by Andy - thank you! More photos in our Photo Album section on the right. Wishing you all a joyous festive season, and a smooth slide into the new year. Catch up with you at our first meeting on 8th January (social meeting), or first "formal" meeting on 15th January. |
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Meet our volunteers: Damian KnollBeing an all-rounder, Damian changed from running a restaurant to running his own roofing and roof restoration business. Then disaster struck: two years ago, he suffered a severe mental breakdown. “I don’t mind talking about it” he said, “it’s one of the most horrifying experiences”. Professional treatment allows him to steadily rebuild his life. “Joining the team at the shed has been massively helpful to improve my condition, it has real benefits for me. The beauty of my coming here is that I can work within a group of friends, in a no-pressure environment. And I know that my work results in helping other people”. In his spare time, Damian enjoys Golf, spending quality time with his children and listening to music, such as George Michael. And he reads and watches… Astro-physics science related stuff, such as Brian Cox and Sean Caroll… Good to have you on our team, Damian! |
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Shed Volunteers' Christmas Luncheon![]() The Project Shed volunteers had their annual Christmas Luncheon on Saturday. Photo (by Al Sirovs) shows our President Andy Bell in full swing giving a rousing Christmas oration! Now, if you check out the Photo Album (on the right), you'll find a few photos from Lelepa Island, Vanuatu. It is as good proof as any I've seen to depict the difference a "Rough Terrain" wheelchair makes to its recipient. Check it out again. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, for all the work you have done over the past year. Looking forward to another year of making "Rough Terrain" wheelchairs. Every one you make will provide the gift of mobility to a disabled child or adult somewhere on one of the South Pacific islands, or PNG, or Africa, or... |
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Surfers Sunrise well represented at The Rotary Foundation Seminar![]() |
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St John's Crisis Centre needs to prepare 250 Hampers![]() There are several options: bring along a gift suitable for a child aged i[ to 17 years, unwrapped. It is a massive job, so they request them to be delivered no later than Monday, 9th December. You can either bring it along to one of our meetings, or deliver them personally to the Church of the Holy Spirit, 73 Salerno Drive, Isle of Capri. Check out the PDF in the Download Section on the right, which contains a specific list of goods they require. Alternatively, you can simply drop off a gift voucher, or give it to Mario at one of our upcoming meetings.
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Thank you from Lelepa Island, Vanuatu![]() Hi guys I really thank you for all of your help with the wheel chairs for Lelepa island. The chairs which were delivered yesterday and were so warmly received by the 6 people it was really touching. The boy who got the chair name is Kiki, he is 17 years old and has some physical and mental difficulties. As is has gotten older it has become more and more difficult to leave the house as he needs to be carried, so most of his time is spent on a mat in the main living area. He was so excited to get the chair he could not stop laughing and waving his arms around. The difference the chair has made to his life is truly incredible. Again thank you. Regards Brad and the Lelepa Village (and Kiki) So, did you ever wonder if your efforts really would make a difference? Give yourself a pat on the back! Check out the Photo Album on the right for more photos |
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Kal Glanznig – “Ambassador for the Sea”Sutherland Shire (Sydney) awarded him the Young Australian of the Year in 2020, and in 2023 Environmental Citizen of the Year. Before that, whilst in High School, he raised $100,000 to put solar panels on his High School, and and … There is more, much more, but I better start telling you what Kal’s visit to Surfers Sunrise was all about: Ocean pollution. For example: Roughly in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. you will find a floating “island” of discarded rubbish, predominantly plastic (as in empty bottles, shopping bags, packaging), two times the size of New South Wales. No, no kidding; read that again. And when you think that a plastic bottle takes 450 years (e.g. until the year 2674) to bio-degrade in the ocean, be assured that the problem will not go away by itself. The only solution is education – world wide, at all levels. Methinks that Kal has set himself a “Moon Shot” project. But then, if as little as 30 years ago, you had predicted that by 2024 practically anyone, anywhere in the world, can talk free of charge to anyone else, anywhere else in the world… what would you have been called? Kal, “I dips me lid”, and we all wish you every success in your endeavours. A copy of Kal’s presentation is available for download in the Download Section on the right. You can also access a movie trailer and a video: Click here and Click here. Photo: Kal with Larry Murray. |
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Record number of players on Surfers Sunrise Golf DayThis year's Surfers Sunrise Golf Day has just concluded. With well over 90 players, a record (and, I dare say, most likely also a record fundraising effort). Photo is of the winning Corporate Team: Astill Cronin Lawyers. Golf Day organiser Charles Thomasson (second from left) introduces Glenn Screech, Ashley Cronin, Glenn O'Kearney and Ethan Ahrens. The same team also won the overall competition. Photo Album is now uploaded - see segment on the right. Full report in next week's bulletin.
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Visitors from Scotland visiting our project shed![]() (Photo, from left: Wheelchair Trust Chairman Geoff Croad, Alison & Ron Borland (Mermaid Beach RC), the three Scots John Owens, Sheena & Fraser McGillivray, Christine O'Connor (Mermaid Beach RC)
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Last Wednesday's speaker: Jesse DixonIn the photo, Jesse holds the first ever GoKart steering wheel, when a very supportive mum encouraged him to take racing seriously. Meanwhile, he runs the Dixon Racing Academy, with "the singular mission to be the ultimate driver academy for racers at all levels" His facilities include a simulator, so tuition can occur in a safe (and far less costly if you crash) environment. Jesse indicated that he would be happy to host a vocational visit - we'll organise this for sometimes in February/March 2025. Watch this spot. One final must watch item: click on this link to view a video where he demonstrates a 'Hot Lap' to a lady who has never been in a race car. Sound is useful, but not essential - just watch her expressions. It went viral, and no wonder! There is also a copy of his PowerPoint presentation (in PDF format) in the Dowload Files section on the right.
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Meet our Volunteers: Rick Parry![]() anything the full-time guys can, but I can also do the civilian thing” he replied. His varied deployments included a total of 5 years full-time service. He was tested as a Navy Diver (where he busted his ear drums) so had to change to a Gunnery Sailor up to the rank of Petty Officer. Then he was commissioned as an officer, retiring as a Lieutenant-Commander (equivalent to Major in the Army). Rick served in various deployments including the United Nations, the Australian Navy, The US Navy, and other coalition forces. In “civilian” life he worked with the Department of the Navy for 5 years, then moved to the Commonwealth Employment Service (CES) and ultimately… the Australian Taxation Office, helping businesses to get on top of the newly introduced GST at the turn of the Century. He was then snatched up by the Commonwealth of the Bahamas to do the same thing over there. Personal life? Believe it: yes, he does have one! He married Sharon in 1996, and together they travel, both locally (caravanning) and internationally. For some extra excitement: hunting and fishing when time allows, and perhaps reading the occasional Lee Childs novel, spy books, or watch a Wolverine movie. I keep being astounded when I see the wide range of professional backgrounds of our volunteers! |
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We need raffle prizes for the Golf Day!![]() Please contact Ross directly on rosscoe1244@hotmail.com, thank you. Want to promote the event? Download the brochure - see Download Files on the right, which includes the link to book.
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Last week's guest speaker: Cindy Donald – Raise FoundationSince Rotary is strictly non-political, it is not within the scope of this article to find out what is being done (or not done) by government. But what a breath of fresh air: Cindy briefed us this morning on what her private organisation, the Raise Foundation, very effectively is doing about this: Early Intervention. Working with High Schools, the concept is to pair individual youths who are considered to be at risk with an adult mentor from her organisation. What is required to be a mentor? Other than the obvious attributes and attitude, you need to be available for 2 hours every week (at the same time), for 20 weeks (during school times). Full training is provided. Why not ask for an Info Session? Click here. Or view their very informative website. You can download Cindy’s PowerPoint presentation, on which all the major points are listed, from our Download Section on the right. (Photo: Cindy Donald with our meeting chairman Trent Belling (left) and President Andy Bell) |
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This Wednesday 21/08/24: Lutzy Award presentationThis is one of our premier events of the year. Created in honour of our late member Keith Lutz, the award, in the form of a fully fledged surf ski, is presented to a young emerging leader personality, nominated by the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. (Picture: last year's winner, Mia Watson (centre) with Keith's widow, Jan Lutz and the 2022 winner Pieta Jackman.
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The Science of Kieser - Kane Chisholm & David AdamoBefore you start reading: perhaps download the PowerPoint file from the Download Section on the right. We were unable to show it this morning; regrettably, the big screen in the upstairs venue refused to cooperate with our guest speaker's computer. Kane Chisholm and David Adamo came strongly recommended by our member Angus Miller, who is subscribing to their program of improving one’s health by a relatively brief, but regular strength training program. Our guests are the local operators of the Gold Coast franchise of this worldwide program. Not only are highly qualified, but they really know what they are talking about. We had almost record attendance this morning, so the subject is obviously of great interes. The vigorous question time is clear proof. So, why should you seriously consider the Kieser method? Look at the second slide (Benefits of Strength Training): all the principal benefits are listed there. For me personally, the “greater function and independence (as one gets older), would be the most important. Too young? Too old? Their clients age range is from 13 to 91 years old... Now, of course you could do your own strength training, either at home or at a “standard” gym. But… the equipment at Kieser isn’t available at a normal gym. Nor will you find the advice and supervision of a tertiary qualified Exercise Scientist and Exercise Physiologist. In view of the strong interest shown this morning, it was decided that we’ll organise an on-site Vocational Outing to their clinic. This is tentatively set for Wednesday 13th November 2024, in place of a standard meeting. Photo: David Adamo (left) and Kane Chisholm (right) |
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This coming Wednesday: The Science of Kieser![]() |
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Good (though short) working bee at the shed![]() |
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Not ALL wheelchairs at Surfers Sunrise are "Rough Terrain"...![]() |
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Bruce Howlett: Malaria Vaccine ProjectBruce Howlett (a member of the RC of Burleigh Heads, is the Vice Chairman of one of Rotary's most audacious endeavours, the Malaria Vaccine Project. At our meeting last Wednesday, Bruce enriched us with how it It started, and what it's current status is. It's happening right here on the Gold Coast, at the local campus of Griffith University's Institute of Glycomics. The project commenced back in 2015 by PDG Sandra Doumany and her husband Sam Doumany, as well as PDG Prof Graham Jones. Bruce gave us a very factual presentation on how the project started and where it is at present. To the uninitiated, having "commenced human trials" might not sound much, but let me tell you: this is a massive milestone! Next: human trials in a country that is severely affected, such as PNG or an African country. The ultimate target: the elimination of Malaria worldwide. Check Bruce's slide presentation in the Downloads section on the right. Photo: Bruce Howlett with our Meeting Chairman of the day, Geoff Croad. |
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This coming Wednesday 12th June: Bruce Howlett |
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Last week’s speaker: Ralph Pownall![]() For decades, Ralph has been a registered valuer of gemstones, specialising in opals. He also has, for decades, taught opal gem cutting at TAFE. Did you know that, on a per carat basis, opals are more valuable than diamonds? “But diamonds are forever” ![]() Ralph had several humorous as well as instructional stories to share from his time in the opal fields out west. Sorry, you should have been there! Good to have you back at Surfers Sunrise, Ralph! |
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You might say "Big deal, so, we "bought a brick"![]() Just as Surfers Sunrise, Broadbeach and Gold Coast Rotary clubs built an X-Ray Unit in remote Pentecost Island, Vanuatu, there was a desperate need in that Himalayan region. But it wasn't just the building: they also supplied desks, chairs, a smart TV (the school's first ever!) and facilities fo provide dental care for the village. Our congratulations go to Hervey Bay Sunrise for the successful completion of this project. Rotary in its truest form! |
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Wheelchairs sent to Zambia 15 years ago still in service!![]() Well, not so fast: Recently, incoming Wheelchair Trust Chairman Geoff Croad received a photo from Pastor Ken Wigglesworth from the Spirit of Life Church, of 5 of our wheelchairs they had delivered to the Mahatma Ghandi Memorial Clinic in Zambia - back in May 2009, i.e. 15 years ago. And they are still very much in use! At that time, 64 of them were despatched, shortly to be followed by another 140! (see snippet of our club bulletin of 13/05/2009). Good to receive some feedback! ![]() |
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Surfers Sunrise was well represented at the District ConferenceSurfers Sunrise Rotary was well represented at Saturday's District Conference in Ballina. Picture includes the President of Mermaid Beach RC, Gillian Reeve (you recall, she spoke at our club recently about her experiences of administering the Polio vaccine in India) who came over to say hello... Very good conference, top keynote speakers, good company, good fellowship, well organised. |
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Top keynote speakers at the District Conference![]() But one of today's speakers, the Very Reverend Morgan Batt, is not your everyday priest. During his keynote address at the conference in Ballina he had the entire audience hanging on his every word. One moment we would be heartily laughing, then dreading what might follow. I give you an example: On one of his first postings in Guatemala in 1992 (yes, Guatemala, right in the middle of its major civil unrest), he politely enquired where the current ‘Padre’ was? “He was executed a couple of weeks ago” they said… It was not long after when he found himself with a gun pointed at his head… Well, since he spoke to us today, he obviously must have survived it. Fr Morgan Batt claims to have performed the highest altitude mass ever, when he climbed Mt Everest. The North Face, not the main route. Bivouacking overnight near the summit at over 8000 metres, he found himself awakening next to his climbing mate who had passed away during the night. Then came the task of bringing the body back down. Towards the end of his speech, I found myself somewhat flustered when I realised that I had, literally, forgotten to keep taking notes. I think the correct English descriptive word is ‘mesmerizing’. Or should it be ‘tantalising’? Invigorating, challenging, arresting? Stimulating? Perhaps all of these. And there were seven other major presentations today as well! A big ‘Thank You!’ goes to DG Dave Harmon & Robbii and his conference team. A very well organised and smoothly run conference indeed. |
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Last Wednesday's guest speaker: Susan Sheehan![]() If you need a speaker, particularly one who can address youth (or youth affairs), Susan is your woman. Navigate to her website: https://sc7international.com/ (Photo: Susan Sheehan with our meeting Chairman of the day, Andy Bell) |
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IMHO U R ovreactng![]() OK, so we oldies have scratched our heads trying to decipher TXT abbreviations. (For those of you who are struggling with the above: IMHO = In My Humble Opinion, bcs = because, SWYP = So what’s your problem? OMG = Oh my god, AFAIK = As far as I know. KISS has been used for decades. Of greater concern is the emerging bad habit of leaving out punctuation (and not just by young people!). The most popularly quoted case in point is ‘A woman without her man is nothing’. With punctuation: ‘A woman: without her, man is nothing.’ [Yes, Henrietta, you did tell me. Ad nauseam...] Or, as Shakespeare may have written: ‘Good Lementio, who calls at the gate? ‘My lord, a woman without; her man is nothing. ‘Bid her enter then, and show her man to the livery. But I digress… May is Youth Service Month. Throughout the world, Rotary Clubs expend serious time, money and effort on Youth projects. Seeing that modern youth seems to mostly ignore convention on many fronts, are our hard raised funds really well spent? OK, let me go back a little, say 20 years. Young people (and those young at heart) embraced email with gusto. But there were still an awful lot of people who refused to participate in this novel method of communication and continued… faxing. Yes, they did! SWUP? Language and methods continually evolve, particularly as we move from the written to the spoken word - as in listening to podcasts or talking into our Smartphone “OK Google, what time is our Zoom meeting today?”. But what has changed very little over the decades, indeed over centuries, millennia, is leadership. Leadership can be learned. Leadership can be coached. Rotary’s Youth programs are just as important today as they have always been. According to the ABS, our target demographic (aged 14 – 24), make up 14% of our population. That’s roughly 3 ½ Million people. Without resorting to platitudes, it is our responsibility to help the generations following us to maximize their leadership potential. Yeah – u rely dont get how awesome an opp u provide to young ppl and u shud all b very proud of ur work! (Get full details of our District's Youth Programs from www.rotary9640.org - Top right side.) |
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Conference Keynote speaker: Craig Foster AM - Socceroo![]() As Rotarians, Human Rights must play a major role in our lives and in our thinking and attitudes. Whatever your views are on refugees, here is a man that's worth listening to! |
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Gillian Reeve - Administring Polio Vaccine in IndiaAnd the rest, as they say, is history? Far from it! The work Gillian and her co-travellers did, as with all the Polio Plus efforts, will have ongoing effect: the ultimate eradication of the Polio virus. But, how do you round up the children, 5 years old or younger, in an Indian city, including those living in a slum? By telling them to be at such-and-such place by XX:00 hours? No! Together with the local Rotary Club and the town’s government, you organise a march through the town to advertise the event. You put a booth in a very busy main street. Then you apply the vaccine (orally, 2 drops), and paint their “pinky” fingernail purple. Other than the obvious reason, this is to ensure they don’t come back a second time to collect the soft toy each child gets as a present… 😊 Helped by local health workers, they would even stop motorbikes with small kid passengers, they applied some 295 doses on just the first day. Then, onto the slum areas… Gillian went there in 2015, 2016, 2018 and would have returned again in 2019, but “the Indian Government had run out of vaccine”. Anti-vaxxers? “Of all people, only one refused” Gillian declared. Officially, India is Polio free since 2014, but as there are still cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan, eternal vigilance is the word. By the way: how do you determine whether a child is 5 years old or younger? “You ask them to reach with their left arm over their head to touch the right ear. If they are younger, they can't do it” she said. Come on! Next time you meet a toddler, find out yourself! Gillian’s PowerPoint pictorial (in PDF format) is available for download - see Download section on the right. (Photo: Gillian with President Doug Lipp) |
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Welcome to our newest member: Dr Elizabeth CeliElizabeth works as a psychologist, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trauma clinician and author, with a focus on complex PTSD. She is an experienced Rotarian and is a Past President of the Rotary Club of Mt Martha, (Melbourne, VIC). In our club, she has requested to be assigned to the Rotary Foundation committee. Welcome to Surfers Sunrise, Dr Elizabeth! (Photo with President Doug Lipp) |
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Last Wednesday’s guest speaker: Angie Bell MP, Member for MoncriefNaturally, as a member of the Liberal Party, Angie touched on her party's policies, including the distinct difference of wanting to open the conversation to consider nuclear energy (note: energy, not weapons) to provide stable and secure electricity for our households and for industry. On the local scene, Angie formed the ‘Moncrief Community Cabinet’ and the ‘Gold Coast Youth Cabinet’. Both are designed for a simple and straight purpose: to hear the views of representatives, “real” representatives, of her community. Last March, she organised ‘Impact Gold Coast’, a Youth Summit, which brought together 200 young people, representing various demographics from across the Gold Coast. For our club, Angie was instrumental in helping us to obtain several grants; the most recent one was to enable the purchase of a new electric forklift for our project shed. Thank you, Angie, for the work you do for our community and the nation at large. (Photo: Angie Bell MP with the meeting chairman, Adrian Crowe. PS: When somebody quipped "are you dressed up for a job interview?" her answer was that "in my job, every day is a job interview!" ☺) |
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Fundraising Chief Ross Augustine lands a big one![]() ![]() Fabulous news; congratulations, Ross. Give yourself a pat on the back!
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Charles Thomasson - 'Great Expectations'As always, Charles was at pains to emphasise that his talk was “general advice only”. Still, some very pertinent facts surfaced. For example, Charles elaborated on the “Weighting” of different cyclical sectors in his company’s (Wilson Advisory) standard portfolio, e.g. where he is “overweight” and where they are “underweight”. Charles discussed various stocks, the weighting of different sectors in his company’s standard portfolios (see his Wilson Advisory report in the Download Section). Note: this file is not the same as he used in his presentation, which he suggested would “not be suitable for disclosure to the public”. Sorry peeps, you should have been there! Photo: Charles (left) with meeting chairman of the day, Peter Morgan. PS: Fans of Charles Dickens would know that ‘Great Expectations’ in 1860-61 was originally published in weekly episodes, and promoted as a "coming of age story", a comic novel, crime fiction, a Gothic novel, a silver fork novel, a historical novel". So, just where does the Stock Market differ then? Ed.
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Last Wednesday's speaker: Thomas RobinsonHe spent 20 years in IT (“I stumbled into jobs”, he said) in web hosting, sales of services to business at Melbourne IT, one of the very original major IT enterprises (originally owned by Malcolm and Lucy Turnbull). “Average”, huh? Yeah. Right. Anyway, some 5 years ago, he decided to switch tack and embark on a career in professional community services, with Mission Australia. “Mission Australia has some 500 programs to choose from”, Thomas remarked. He selected Youth Support, counselling young people aged 15 - 24. His work involves the entire spectrum: finding them employment, housing, education, and providing life guidance. “Often, I support people who have ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Anxiety, complex trauma background, or generational unemployment”, he said. His tertiary qualifications include a Diploma of Community Services and a Diploma of Counselling. And what does he do in his spare time? “I go and explore nature with my son, motorbiking, or magnet fishing”. Magnet fishing? That’s when you aim to catch anything that hangs on to a magnet, as in stuff people have thrown off a bridge. “You’d be amazed at some of the stuff that comes up!”, he jested. And very much worth mentioning: Thomas is also a member of the Reserve Army, a Reserve Rifleman. Throughout the world, Rotarians aim to make the world a better place. It’s good to have members in our club who, including his mentor Evan Mita, also do so professionally. Welcome to the club, Thomas! |
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Vale Bruce Pallesen![]() This picture was taken in September 2020 at the shed. We also have a write-up about him in the archives of our website - click here to access it. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday 31st January, 9:55 am - 11:25 am (AEST), at Somerville Funerals, 44 Nind Street, Southport. |
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January is Vocational Service Month![]() The international monthly Rotary theme for January is what in the “good ol' days” used to be one of Rotary’s major Avenues of Service: Vocational Service. Since Eliot’s time, lots of changes relating to vocations have happened, and lots of prognoses have been made. 40 years ago it was the demise of the Industrial Age, which was replaced by the “Information Revolution”. Indeed, this has largely happened; in case you haven’t noticed: We are right in it. Today’s plain vanilla mobile phone, with a measly 64 Gigabytes of memory, is roughly 250 times as powerful as the Commonwealth Bank’s mainframe computer of the mid-1970’s (it had 256 Megabytes of RAM). On top of this, it has access to unlimited information of the Internet. And now, the next major disruptor is the combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biotechnology, which will have a far greater impact. AI has been around for decades - refer to the spell checker (ca 1984) through to Google Maps (ca 2005) and now Chat GPT and a whole swag of others, not so well published (2023). Yet, whilst the method by which we do things may change, the ethical principles as depicted in the Objects of Rotary have not changed. Click on this link for the complete set of Rotary’s Guiding Principles. For this article, it's the second object that is relevant: “High ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society.” |
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A Christmas Breakfast with a difference |
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Andy Bell is President Elect 2024-25![]() Andy brings some considerable experience in the job with him - in addition to numerous other senior roles and board positions, he was President in the 2017/18 year.
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Sorry, we have been unable to deliver your parcel…![]() |
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Welcome to two new Surfers Sunrise Rotarians!![]() ![]() ![]() But wait, there’s more! Ralph is not only a Charter Member of our club (chartered in January 1987), but in 1989/90 was our third President!
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Damian Hussey - Cinematographer, Writer, Film Director
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Surfers Sunrise Golf Day is next Monday![]() This year's Surfers Sunrise Golf Day will be held on Monday, 30th October 2023, at the usual location, the Surfers Paradise Golf Club. It will be a 'Shotgun Start' at 12:00 pm (registration from 11:00 am). Several options:
Chief organizers Doug Lipp and Charles Thomasson are looking both for players, helpers as well as Raffle Prizes. ![]() Secure online booking site is now open. Click on this link, or scan the QR Code: |
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October is Economic and Community Development month“Economic and Community Development” sounds like some BIG thing, something that one would expect the Federal Treasurer or the UN to tackle. Lots of big speeches, platitudes, committees, enquiries. How could a little Rotary club like ours possibly get involved, not to mention make a difference? Or could we? ![]() Our club’s Wheelchairs project is as much a community service project as it is an international service project. Our volunteers enjoy the twice-weekly companionship of their fellow workers, whilst they are “doing good”. Our club supports a number of local projects, such as Angel Flight (last year’s District Governor’s personal project) and this year, the major beneficiaries of our Golf Day are Pancare Aid and the Police Citizen’s Youth Club. Yes, a small club CAN make a difference. As a member of one of the most trusted organisations in the world, YOU and I can make a difference, by participating in events, by promoting Rotary. |
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The team that re-erected the X-Ray Unit on Pentecost Island(from left): Matt Hayward, Kristen 'KJ' Jewson, John Groves (the master builder), Mitch Brown, Ava Pearson, Hudson Sirovs, Al Sirovs and (front) Dan Snart. Not your average meeting last Wednesday: Not only did we welcome a new member (see separate article above), but the team that went to Pentecost Island, Vanuatu to erect the X-Ray Unit at Mauna Health Centre fronted the club. This wasn’t a simple task by any means: Master Builder John Groves eloquently outlined the enormous task of getting the X-Ray and Pathology Lab Unit built. After a two day trip, by Air to Port Vila, then by ‘Rock Hopper’ plane to Lonorore and a three-hour boat trip to the Mauna Health Centre, the task was to unpack the “flat pack” building which was shipped in two containers from our project shed in Arundel in February this year. There isn't much flat space there! To get it up the hill and re-erect it was a massive task. “Without the huge work of locals, it would never have happened”, John said. Hard work it might have been, but the team was unanimous in declaring the exercise as a “once in a lifetime experience”. Twelve days of basic accommodation in a guest house, no electrical power (except in the Medical Centre), locally cooked |
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Vanessa Jansen: Corporate Membership“We need to get a number of visitors together to form a Rotary Group” was the brief given by (then District Public Image coordinator) PDG Andy Rapajakse. The idea was to form a new Rotary Club based on corporate, rather than individual membership. That was in 2018 (incidentally, the same year our club, Surfers Sunrise, introduced corporate membership into our bylaws – we claim to have “invented” the concept… ☺). The result was a new club named Gold Coast Corporate Rotary, chartered in 2020. Today, the club counts 38 members. At the District 2022 District Conference, her club received the award for the Highest Membership growth in District 9640). “It started off with door knocking,” she said, in other words: the ages-old method of aiming for personal contact. But her club works differently to conventional Rotary clubs: they meet just once a month on the 3rd Wednesday at 5:30 pm. The meeting usually takes place at one of the members’ boardroom, or perhaps at a café, for cheese and crackers. “We are looking for businesses rather than just individuals (but, of course, individual members are most welcome too, just as any other club does). Corporate members can nominate up to 8 people who can attend meetings in rotation. An annual fee of $900 entitles a business to have up to 5 voting members. The club runs various projects, including a mentorship program. Interestingly, this also involves online courses available from Rotary’s very own Learning Centre, on the Rotary International website www.rotary.org. For example, to visit the section of Personal Development, Click here (you'll need to login). Thank you, Vanessa, for a very instructive presentation! A copy of Vanessa’s PowerPoint presentation (in PDF format) has been uploaded to our Download Files section on the right. Photo: Vanessa Jansen with Paul Seymour, our meeting Chairman. |
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Special recognition for two of our Associate MembersCongratulations to both of you, and thank you and all your fellow volunteers for your ongoing work and dedication! Your efforts provide mobility to thousands of disabled children and adults in developing countries. |
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Lyssia Demeulenaere returns after 10 years![]() Welcome back to the Gold Coast, Lyssia! Great to see you! |
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Last meeting's Guest Speaker: Angie Bell MP![]() On job seeking, the opposition’s policy is to allow people who are on welfare to work more hours before their benefits get affected. She is the product of 3 generations of factory workers in South Australia. “The harder you work the luckier you get” is her motto. She also elaborated on the Superannuation changes and Early Learning. In relation to the latter, the major issue is not just money, it is getting access to it: in many regions, there isn’t sufficient staff. In her capacity as the newly appointed Shadow Minister for Youth, Angie formed a ‘Youth Cabinet’ across the Gold Coast. She then organised and chaired a summit, the ‘Gold Coast Impact Youth Summit’ with the aim of giving young people opportunities, “the same opportunities I had as a young person”. Some 200 young people from public and private schools, and community groups attended. Angie told us about a young, somewhat dejected man who came to her office seeking help. At the recent Youth Summit he was included in a break-out group where he could meet with people who went to university (or planned to go); let’s call them people he would consider privileged and opposite to his situation. Of course, the frank exchange of views proved beneficial for both sides. Angie concluded by relating some information on workng with her colleagues and her leader, Peter Dutton. “Peter Dutton has the hardest job in Australia, but he has a great sense of humour” she said. [Yes, quite different to what the press, particularly our national broadcaster and the left-leaning press, loves to depict him… But Rotary’s creed is to be above politics, so allow me to desist from further elaborating… Ed.] |
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Official hand-over of X-Ray Unit for Pentecost Island, Vanuatu![]() Photo by Mark Urquhart (from left): Cr Darren Taylor, Greg Bowler, Assistant Governor Sheila Ponting, Mario Fairlie, District Governor Karen Thomas, Sam O'Connor MP, John Paul Langbroek MP, Des La Rance OAM, Dr Graham Sivyer, Cr Ryan Baildon-Lumsden, President Burleigh Heads Rotaract Club Dan Snart, President Surfers Sunrise Rotary Club Mitch Brown. Last Wednesday, the three Rotary clubs, Surfers Sunrise, Broadbeach and Gold Coast celebrated the official hand-over of the X-Ray and Pathology Unit, destined for Pentecost Island, Vanuatu. The building was constructed, then dismantled and flat-packed into a container at our project shed in Arundel. Mid-February, the containers were on the way to be shipped to their destination. Some 60 attendees enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Catalina Cafe on Broadwater Parklands, honoured by the presence of several dignitaries, including our District Governor Karen Thomas and Assistant Governor Sheila Ponting, local MPs John Paul Langbroek and Sam O'Connor, Councillors Ryan Baildon-Lumsden and Darren Taylor, the President of the Gold Coast Medical Association, Professor Philip Morris, just to name a few. Regrettably, the dignitaries expected from Vanuatu were unable to join us, due to the massive devastation that was caused by the two cyclones that recently struck their country. Master of Ceremonies Trent Belling, a third generation Rotarian as he proudly introduced himself, led the proceedings with aplomb. Mario Fairlie and Dr Graham Sivyer, who together with Greg Bowler were the project's leaders, provided a brief outline of its history. They had visited Vanuatu twice, both the destination at Pentecost Island as well as for meetings with authorities in the capital Port Vila. This should ensure a smooth transfer once the containers have arrived at Port Vila. Well deserved, they also gave the "inventor" and leader of the building concept, Des La Rance OAM due credit. "There would have been a thousand people involved all up," Mario emphasised, "from the helpers on the ground to the individual donors of both finances and materials. Equally important is that we recognise the Global Grant from The Rotary Foundation and not least the young Rotaractors. Young people are essential to have around, not just for young ideas, but for physically demanding work". Local member for Surfers Paradise, John Paul Langbroek briefly outlined how important the ongoing work with South Pacific countries, at all levels of Government as well as at basic population basis is. "JPL", a diminutive he is fondly referred to by his friends and colleagues, has had extensive experience with Trade Missions into these countries, including PNG and Vanuatu. JPL also acknowledged our achievement of some 11,000 wheelchairs that have been despatched to all corners of the world. District Governor Karen Thomas referred to the "ROSE" award (Recognition of Significant Effort) which she recently presented to the three clubs at the District Conference in Yamba. This was in recognition of our three clubs successfully working together on this massive project. The two containers are now at sea. On-site re-erection of the building and the commissioning of the X-Ray and Pathology equipment is expected to take place in June. Watch this spot! (Also, check the Download files on the right for a slideshow and press release. There is also a photo album by photographer Mark Urquhart online - click here) |
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This coming Wednesday 22. Feb: breakfast AT THE PROJECT SHED![]() Past District Governor Tony Heading is the District Chair for The Rotary Foundation (TRF). Most people, and even most Rotarians, are not aware of the size of influence TRF has in the world, nor that it is one of the most efficiently run large charities (a rare 4 stars on Charitynavigator.com). He will give us an outline of "our" foundation's multi-faceted programs. Join us for the traditional Bacon & Eggs barbeque. We need to load a container (yes, another one), this one with wheelchairs bound for South Africa. The shed will open at 6:00 am, so if you can, please help.
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Dignitaries visit shed prior to send-off of X-Ray Unit![]() Last Saturday morning, Federal Member Hon. Angie Bell MP, State Member for Bonney Sam O'Connor MP and Councillor Ryan Baildon-Lumsden visited our project shed in Arundel this morning to inspect the X-Ray Unit, prior of its being dismantled, to be packed into a container and sent off to Pentecost Island in Vanuatu.
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Mario Fairlie and Dr Graham Sivyer visited Vanuatu![]() Watch this space for a full report in next week's bulletin. Photo: Mario Fairlie (centre) with Dr Graham Sivyer (right) and Mr George Pakoa, pathology and development officer.
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Wheelchair Shed donates bike to Wesley Mission![]() |
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Great Christmas Breakfast at Marina Mirage![]() |
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District Governor Karen Thomas – Club visit 23 Nov 22![]() “I worked in the medical field since I was 17 years old”, Karen stated with justified pride. She is a registered intensive care nurse but has worked in several areas in her field. Hence, her personal projects are related: At the top is ‘Liveblood’, the campaign to donate blood. Did you know that people undergoing Chemo require blood products every two days? There is a distinct shortage, which can even result in the doctors needing to decide on a triage-type process. Karen highlighted the upcoming District Conference at Yamba, from 10th – 12th March 2023. There will be several hugely interesting keynote speakers – watch this space in upcoming bulletins, or go to the District website www.rotary9640.org – Registrations are now open. But a major point of emphasis for this year is ‘DEI’ (yes, another Rotary acronym…): it stands for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion. Yes, we’ve all been pounded with the ‘flavour of the period’ [my remarks, not the District Governor’s. Ed.] But Karen highlighted a hugely important point: Not all disability is visible. Have you thought about people with hearing difficulties? Allergies (think gluten)? Chronic pain? Intellectual? [no, please don’t start. It’s not funny.] No, neither did it pop up in my mind first off. Thank you, DG Karen. As our meeting chairman, Adrian remarked: “I’ve actually learned something at a DG’s club visit.” |
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Maria Leebeck, Gold Coast Youth Service![]() “Currently, there are roughly 250 “rough sleepers” on the Gold Coast we know by name” she said. They come from all types of backgrounds, but most are young people who are ‘still at home’, but don’t want to live there, due to issues such as |
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Big working bee at the shed last SaturdayA big Thank You! to all the associates and members who attended (too many to mention individually - you know who you are, give yourself a pat on the back!) Photo: The inventor and driving force behind our wheelchairs project, Des La Rance wrestling the pallet lift up a very temporary ramp, capably assisted by some muscular associate members... ![]() |
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Sunday Family Picnic at Evandale Park and HOTA![]() ![]() |
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Special visitors from South Africa![]() ![]() |
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Meet our newest Corporate Members
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A load of hospital beds and equipment for DIK![]() ![]() |
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This coming Wednesday: Nicole Brickwell and Nick Cole![]() Very much looking forward to it!
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Rapper Geoff?Yes, it's him. But no, he's not a rapper, he just put it that way because the sun became too hot... |
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Separating the rubbish from recyclables![]() There is a lot of work out at our project shed which is not directly related to making wheelchairs or construction of buildings: Al Sirovs sent me this picture of one of our Associate Members, Ron Thompson, dismantling bikes. A fair portion of the components, such as the tyres, the pedals, etc are not suitable for either use on the wheelchairs nor for recycling. The aluminium components such as the wheels (without tyres) are separated as they fetch a higher price than iron or steel. The latter goes into a huge 10 m3 skippy bin, collected by Sims Metal on a regular basis. All proceeds go back into the wheelchairs account.
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Putting finishing touches on the X-Ray Unit![]() (Photo by Al Sirovs)
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Tash Price wins the "Champion of Sport" Award![]() Well done, Tash and Adam! |
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Finally! Old bicycle tires sent to recycling plant![]() Photo (by Al Sirovs), from left: Bryan Tuesley, Rick Parry and Ron Thompson.
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DGN Lisa Hunt - Regionalisation
Following discussion, a vote was taken and our club voted. The result of the vote is not for publication, however, any member who was unable to be present is welcome to enquire directly with one of the board members. Over the next few weeks, all other clubs in the district are required to vote (one vote per club). Photo: Lisa with our Chairman of the day, Peter Morgan. |
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Polio confined to some remote areas of Afghanistan? And New York.You would be forgiven if, in view of some other matters taking precedence in the media over the last few days, you might have missed this. The Governor of New York has declared a State of Emergency, in response to the Polio virus having been discovered in waste water, both in New York as well as in four neighboring counties. In 1979, Rotary International launched the fight against Polio. In 1985, Polio Plus was launched, with the aim of eradicating this terrible disease, mostly affecting children. Since then, billions of dollars have been spent, and millions of volunteer hours have been expended to apply Polio vaccines throughout the world. The result: from a count of about 350,000 cases EVERY year, vaccination has largely eliminated Polio in almost all countries, with the exception of some remote areas of Afghanistan and Pakistan, where access to the people distributing and applying the vaccines is, sadly, severely restricted. Until now. The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
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"Unofficial board meeting" at Benowa Tavern![]() |
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This Wednesday: DGN Lisa Hunt - Regionalisation![]() If adopted, this would involve major changes. In essence, the current Districts would be abolished and replaced with regions (approximately 2 - 3 per District). Hence all members should inform themselves before all clubs in the district are asked to vote, shortly after DGN Lisa’s presentation. There is a major website https://rotaryzone8.org/page/rotary-regionalisation-project (which largely outlines the proposed scheme, thus naturally leading to the ‘Pro’ side of the argument). It contains a very detailed outline, including an extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions. To learn more about the negative side, a PDF with two opinion pieces by PP Peter Truer (RC of Boonah) and PDG Jeff Egan (RC Mt Warning AM) has also been distributed to all members. It is important to note that both are stating their personal view, not the official view of the District. To save you finding it, I’ve uploaded it to the Download Section on the right. |
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Very successful fundraiser last Friday |
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The Lutzy Award goes to Pieta JackmanJan Lutz, who this morning presented the award for the 7th time in honour of her late husband, said "They do a magnificent job in all areas and the vibe between them and our wonderful Surfers Paradise Surf Club just keeps going. I am very pleased to still be part of it, although today was more difficult due to the recent loss of Jason [their son - Ed.]. So maybe I can be excused for not ramping up on the speech. Good luck Rotarians, with all your future dealings." Photo (from left) President Mitch Brown, Jan Lutz, Pieta Jackman, David Orchy, Scott Andrews. |
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The lift at the Surfers SLSC is now operatingGood news for our members and guests with a disability or impairment! See you on Wednesday morning! |
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Lutzy Award Presentation this coming Wednesday, 31st August 2022This year's winner of the Lutzy Award will be presented again at the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. You'll have a hearty, plate served breakfast of Bacon & Eggs (choice of fried or poached), Sausage & Fried Eggs or a bowl of Acai, for the same cost as last year's ($11.00 per person). Hey! Where else can you get a hearty meal for $11.00? Bookings have now closed. If you forgot, or if you have just emerged from an extended trip up the Amazon ☺, please contact Graeme Isaacson directly. By the way: the lift is now operating! (see separate note below) (Image is from last year's presentation to Jet Milford - Ferguson) |
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Zoe Humphries – My Community Legal
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PDG Darrell Brown celebrates 50 years in RotaryAnd well deserved too: Not only is this a rare occurrence, but in those years Darrell has held just about every officer’s job, including multiple runs as Club President, and numerous District Committee Chairmanships, culminating in his appointment to District Governor in 2017-18. In the words of C.J. Dennis: ‘I lift me lid’. Congratulations! Photo: Darrell with Assistant Governor Sheila Ponting and fellow Architect, PP Simon Brook, whom he sponsored to join Surfers Sunrise in 2014. |
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Tash Price wins Sunshine Coast Half Marathon![]() |
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This coming Wednesday 17th August: Zoe Humphries![]() In addition, we also will have a very special event - see President's Message above - that morning! Well, you'll just have to be there! |
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Sgt Cherie MacLean – PCYCThe organisation has existed for over 70 years, with some 57 clubs in our state of Queensland. What does it do? Well, perhaps if you download her PowerPoint (see Download Files on the right), you get a good, broad picture: As the name would suggest, Youth and Community is the major thrust. Early intervention, Crime Prevention, a program named RUBY, designed to help people suffering Domestic and Family Violence… A program ‘Braking the Cycle’ [no Henrietta, no spelling error – it’s braking as in slowing down, I did check! Ed. ☺]. They are looking for mentors. To do what? Mentoring young learner drivers, assisting them to reach the required 100 hours of driving to get their P-Plates. “Me?? Sitting in a car with a L-Plater??” I hear you ask. Yes, it is safe. Yes, you will receive training. No, not with your own car – they’ll supply the vehicle. Yes, you can get more info online: brakingthecycle.pcyc.org.au where you can also apply. There is much, much more to Cherie’s story. Click on this link to learn more about this wonderful organisation: https://www.pcyc.org.au/ (Photo: Chairman of the day, Doug Lipp with Sgt Cherie McLean)
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Welcome Cole Residential - our newest Corporate MemberAt this morning's meeting we had the pleasure of witnessing the induction of our latest Corporate Member, Cole Residential Real Estate. Welcome! We much look forward to seeing you at our meetings. Photo (from left) Ali Boccassino, Jane Starr, Ashleigh Baker, Nick Cole, Nicole Bricknell, with our President Mitch Brown.
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Hi! Would you like to marry me?No, don't you start rumours... your Editor is quite happily married already. But I put in this headline to outline how silly it would be to ask somebody, full-on, "Would you like to join Rotary?" Yet, the adage that "if you don't ask, it is unlikely that they'll ask you" always applies. So, you've met that person who is of good reputation. You may have briefly talked about what you do in our club. You know he/she may be interested in becoming involved. How do you ask? OK, there is the old hoary chestnut of the proverbial "alternative close" (as in "would this Wednesday be suitable or would you prefer Wednesday 17th?"). but this is unlikely to work as an opening. In good salesmanship, the so-called 'Elevator Pitch' is the best. This needs to be in your words, your style, highlighting a couple of important points. Here is just one where Surfers Sunrise shines: We are big in Youth Services. Is your potential member a parent or grandparent? We sponsor young people, from high school through to early adulthood, to attend a variety of confidence and leadership development camps. Click here to get the whole list of them. We sponsor budding scientists to attend the National Youth Science Forum. We work with the local Surf Life Saving Club and present an annual award in the form of a $2,500 surf ski to an emerging leader in the Surf Life Saving movement. Coming to think of it: it's happening at the end of this month. Why not ask someone to come along on 31st August?
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This coming Wednesday 3rd August: Sgt Cherie MacLean |
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July is Leadership Month![]() In our club, the first board meeting under President Mitch Brown will take place this coming Wednesday 27th July (07:00 am at the Surfers Paradise SLSC). So, if you have any specific item you'd like to have dealt with, now is the time to mention it. Like RIGHT NOW (the draft agenda closes on Monday night). Naturally, you can ask for any item to be added to the agenda of any of our board meetings. But leadership does not just apply to the club's or district's leadership team. Year after year, our club promotes youth programs, many of which specifically foster leadership: Click on this link to see the various events. Surfers Sunrise has sponsored - and will continue to sponsor - participants to almost all these events. In addition, we promote leadership in the local Surf Club: the annual Lutzy Award. It is presented to an emerging young leader nominated by the Surf Life Saving Club. The winner is not necessarily a surfing champion but is selected on the basis of his/her efforts to lead and help others. The award comes complete with a $2,500 surf ski, donated by our club. This year's presentation will be at our breakfast meeting of 31st August. Mark it in your diary now. |
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Update on the big electric wheelchair to Honiara![]() Col has sent us an update with pictures of the recipient, Joel Teheroha, a young lad who has suffered from severe cerebral palsy since birth. The story also featured prominently in the local press - click on this link to view the report in the Solomon Star, the island's daily newspaper. Give yourself a pat on the back, Col! Good to see you are still very active in helping disadvantaged people in developing countries.
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One of the best kept secrets of Rotary
Think about it for a moment. Note: The presumption to this story: You are a man and your partner is a woman. Hold it! Don't shoot just yet! Yes, I acknowledge, in these enlightened days it may well be illegal for me to even mention - sorry, I mean ignore to mention all the other possible relationship options. But I'll persist. And let me state it clearly: the opinions of the editor do not necessarily represent those of the management.☺ So, onwards... Let us assume that you pass away before your wife does. Statistically proven to be a distinct possibility, and no snide jokes please! Would your wife still enjoy a regular circle of friendship? A circle of friendship that is still there some 3 or 6 months after your funeral? If so, that's great! If in doubt (or if you are indeed female and this has sort of triggered your interest), keep reading. In the 'olden days' (not sure if I'd want to call them 'good' olden days though), Rotary clubs were the exclusive domain of the male of the species and they had Ladies' Auxiliaries, commonly called 'Rotaryannes'. With the advent of (a) Rotary clubs inviting women to join and (b) women more and more engaging in business, the traditional Rotaryannes just about vanished. Enter Innerwheel. This organization is, as far as I know, exclusively for women. And no, you don’t need to be a widow to join, of course. The sole requirement is to be of good character, a desire to enjoy friendship and good companionship and to serve the community. Their men are quite welcome to tag along to their social functions. Usually, there is a "Men's Tour" whilst the ladies have their conference. This year, we were hosted by Ohana Winery, a Bundaberg business that brews innovative alcoholic fruit wines, ciders, ginger ale and liqueurs. Yes, complete tour with samples... The Innerwheel organization is not new: it was founded way back in 1924 in Manchester, England and first appeared in Australia in 1931, in Ballarat VIC of all places. Today, they boast over 100,000 members in 108 countries. In our region, we have two clubs on the Gold Coast. They generally meet once a month and support a major research project. At present, their primary support goes to Cordblood (Stem Cell) research, carried out by Prof Michael Doran (QUT). Friendship? Over the past 20 years or so, I have accompanied my wife to dozens of Innerwheel conferences. Friendship is the very item that pervades the atmosphere. And if you think these generally elderly ladies are just taking it easy: wait till you see them dancing the jig! For more information, click here and here, or contact the editor who will gladly forward your enquiry to the nearest club! |
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Jennifer Jones - first female President of Rotary International
During her year, she will focus on four presidential initiatives that Imagine Rotary:
Read the entire story of the Presidential Initiatives. The site is very comprehensive. It also includes video messages.
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Excellent start of the Rotary year with Changeover LuncheonSimon Brook was Master of Ceremonies and kept the formal procedures to the brevity Surfers Sunrise Rotary has been known for the past 3 decades... We were honoured by (now Past) District Governor Jeff Egan, representing Rotary International who gave us an equally brief reply to the Toast to Rotary International. Outgoing President Paul Seymour briefly outlined our club's activities and achievements for the past 12 months, then presented the club's recognitions and awards: Paul Harris Fellowships to Angus Miller, Paul O'Neill, Adrian Crowe, Ian Mayberry and Mario Fairlie. The major awards were received by
Congratulations to all! Following the presentation, Paul handed the President's collar to Mitch Brown, who after a brief address introduced his new board (see photo above). For more photos see the Photo Album section on the right. The Changeover Report has been uploaded - see Download Section on the right. It includes the President's, Treasurer's as well as the individual chairmen's reports, as well as a summary of the past year's speakers and events. |
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Best Long Term Project: and the winner is... |
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Zahra Forbutt - RYPEN campPhoto: Zahra with our meeting chairman of the day, Simon Brook.
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This Wednesday 22nd June: Alycia Bird & Amber Clode![]() Before that, we'll also have a brief presentation by our RYPEN awardee, Zahra Forbett, who participated in this event a few weeks ago. This will be our last 'formal' meeting for the Rotary year, so let's have a big turnout! By the way: Have you booked yet for the Changeover Luncheon? Click on this link now. |
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Have you booked for the Changeover Luncheon this Saturday 2nd July?![]() Bookings close tomorrow Tuesday 28th June 2022 |
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Hugely interesting visit to the PCYC last Wednesday![]() Note: Cherie will be our guest speaker on 3rd August 2022.
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Very successful fundraiser at the Small Bus ExpoDarrell has just advised that the funds we raised at this event covers our Youth Services budget for the coming 2022-23 year. That includes sponsoring candidates for RYTS, RYPEN, RYLA, National Youth Science Forum, just to name the regular ones. Give yourself a pat on the back! Now, put the next date into your calendars: the Brisbane Event will be on 5th and 6th October. |
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Gold Coast Small Business Expo Fundraiser is this weekWe have again been offered this very important fundraising opportunity. We get paid handsomely for our services. Our organiser, Darrell Brown, advises that the miniumum number of people required on the roster has been filled, but if you feel like giving us a hand, particularly on the Bump-in and Bump-out sessions, you are welcome! NOTE: The venue is at the Coomera Indoor Sports Centre 56 Beattie Road, Coomera, NOT where it was last year at Carrara.
By the way: Thursday is also the day when some of our members have a quiet drink and a good chinwag. Good chance we'll do this this Thursday as well. |
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A meeting with a difference at the project shed![]() |
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June is Rotary Fellowship Month“Why not?” retorted a former Peace Fellow . “Rotary means business; it is totally non-political, non-denominational and, since about 1987, certainly non-sexist!” So how come there is a fellowship for Singles but not for Marrieds? Or for that matter Doll Lovers, or Birdwatchers?” “Maaate!!” his colleagues yelled out, “we are not talking about that kind of dolls and birds!” [Yes, quite right, Henrietta, there is no need say anything!] One of the stouter members joined in: “Ah, I’m more into the epicurean stuff, like Wine, Whyskey, Rum, Beer, Gourmet Cooking, even Bathhouses. I like antique cars, and I like hitching up the caravan to my 4 x 4 truck, then travel into the blue yonder and in the evenings study my rare books. I listen to Jazz, actually any music. And I’m probably the only male in hundreds of miles who makes quilts. My wife is much more into Italian and Latin Culture. And in this context she joined the Magna Graecia fellowship. “The Magna what?” several shouted out. “Well, it is based in Southern Italy, but you can join. Just look it up.” “Ah, ever since I swapped my caravan for a big fat Recreational Vehicle, I’ve given up the caravan. The total quality of my Winnebago is just superb” said a Doctor. I can hook our bicycles on the back, tie my canoe and surf board on the top and I even can play Table Tennis on a fold out table. When I’m out in the sticks, I can join the meeting of my e-Club and thus maintain my Social Network. Evenings we study European Philosophy, Ethics and Cultural Heritage. We have close contact with an Honorary Consul whom we met on a Cruise and with whom we recently did a Home Exchange. Naturally, being Swiss, he is far more into Railways, Hiking, Curling and Shooting sports. He is a Past District Governor, intimate with Rotary heritage and global history, and he has a massive collection of Rotary Stamps and Rotary Pins. Of course, he goes to all the conventions. I joined him at one of his club meetings. Did you know that former Swiss Tennis great Martina Hingis is a Paul Harris Fellow and is closely involved with Polio Plus? “Well, I’m more into the fitness stuff” said a Military Veteran, who now is in Law Enforcement. I like Scuba Diving, Fishing, Rowing, blue water Yachting, Skiing, riding my Motorcycle. I’m a Scout Leader, I run Marathons and Triathlons and I play Cricket. I listen to Heavy Metal and if ever I have a quiet moment, I study Russian culture.” “Too hard for me!” retorted a Lawyer, and his fellow professionals, a prominent Editor and Publisher and an Educator, joined in. “As principals of our firms, we are constantly looking for better Corporate Social Responsibility, Strategic Planning, Social Networks, the Environment, Public Health and… Golf. And if I need solitude, I fly my Cessna...” “Geez… isn’t there any group I can join where it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg?” I whimpered. “Most definitely!” came the answer. “There is Amateur Radio, Chess, Draughts, Photography, Esperanto or Genealogy. Even very general subjects as the Internet. But don’t be fooled: the group is very active in around 100 countries! And if you are into Eastern board games: Go. Or you might want to become a Magician and if you need calming down, play Bowls or do some Yoga.” So, with almost 90 different Rotary Fellowships worldwide, there truly is something for everyone! Just click on the links! |
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This Wednesday 8th June: Breakfast at the Project Shed![]() |
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Lismore Library Book Appeal: Please hold off..!![]() |
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Flood Appeal: Lismore Library needs books![]()
Donations can be made at the Library at 6 Centenary Drive, Goonellabah NSW 2480, Monday to Thursday between 9:30 am and 3:00 pm, or Surfers Sunrise Rotary Club will organise a collection on the Gold Coast for them to be shipped to Lismore in one consignment. If you have any to donate, please click on this link to send us an email so we can make arrangements. |
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Peter McGuiness - You Choose Road SafetyPeter rejects the incident to be called an accident. "It was a direct consequence of Jordan choosing to drive while under the influence. " At today's meeting, Peter McGuiness outlined his organisation, 'You Choose - Youth Road Safety', which he and his wife Melissa set up, following that horrendous event in 2012. The program is mostly presented at High Schools, to Year 11 students.. "The approach is novel and innovative," Peter said. "Not 'the poor kid had an accident, but instead of preaching and lecturing, the concept gives emphasis to the fact that the kid made the choice to drive at 120 Km/Hr. The students are actively engaged. "What would you do?" is the question asked. "Interestingly, on every occasion, we are the ones who are learning", Peter said. Think about it: There has never been more money spent on road safety, car safety and stringent policing. Yet, road trauma, at best, remains static or is increasing. The thing that has not changed is the culture. You Choose Youth Road Safety addresses that. And perhaps, with the various Interact clubs Rotary is running in various High Schools, perhaps we might have an ideal vehicle to help Peter and Melissa to get the message across. Photo: Peter McGuiness (centre), with his organisation's Chairman Todd Cole (4th from left), new corporate member Nick Cole (third from right) Visit their website: www.youchooseyrs.org.au
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Surfers Sunrise sponsors a RYPEN camp awardee![]()
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Wheelchair shed donates bike to girl from Ukraine![]() And whilst we are at it: Check out the interview of Des La Rance and John Hall with Don Glover of Radio 4CRB (89.3) in the Download Section on the right.
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Rotarian behind the Badge: Ross Augustine![]() Growing up on the beach, it is natural that he is a keen sailor. “We towed a boat from Melbourne to Brisbane for a championship.” Otherwise though, free time was scarce, as it was compulsory to have a qualified Pharmacist present at all times, so they were totally tied to the business. (there's much more: click on 'Read More' for the full story) |
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Launch of City Council's Senior's Garden![]() |
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Rosie Rocco's team to run again at the Gold Coast Ramble |
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Bunnings Sausage Sizzle starts early... |
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Last week's guest speaker: Angie Bell MPLast week, Angie outlined her engagement and leadership in her electorate of Moncrieff. “Rotary changed my life” she declared. Coming from a family of “three generations of factory workers”, the mere thought of international travel seemed impossible. That was until she was offered to spend a year on Rotary Exchange in Denmark. Eloquent and articulate, she outlined the various facets of her work since her election in 2019. Faced with the major issue of homelessness, she set up the Moncrieff Community Cabinet, comprising various community organisations such as St Johns Crisis Centre, representatives of various religious bodies, media, State Members of Parliament, Rotary and business. She also closely works with Soheil Abedian’s ‘Serving Our People’ charity. “Do you know we build rockets and satellites on the Gold Coast?” she asked. Setting up the City Heart Taskforce, a cross-industry peak body has the aim of increasing the region’s manufacturing capacity. “Do you know that Griffith Uni has developed world-leading 3D-Printing to generate minuscule bone parts which can be used to restore a broken wrist?” There is much more [sorry, you should have been there! Ed.] Just one more thing, specifically concerning Surfers Sunrise Rotary and our X-Ray Unit for Vanuatu project: After things had become almost hopelessly bogged down, Angie was instrumental to arrange for the Memorandum of Understanding to be signed by the Vanuatu authorities. Thank you! |
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George Keily keeps bringing in spectacles by the car load![]() |
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Griffith Uni Malaria Vaccine Project update![]() Australia has been free of Malaria since 1981, but that doesn’t mean that there are no risks. Dr Danielle explained that we still have the “right” mosquitos in the Northern Territory. But world-wide, one of the major concerns is that case numbers are no longer decreasing. In short: this means that the virus may have become immune to the treatment drugs. Vaccination (which results in your body generating natural immunity) is the answer. There are various methods that can be used. The Malaria Vaccine Project’s aim is to perfect a ‘Whole Parasite Vaccine’. In essence, Dr Danielle explained: “We take the parasite and treat it so they can’t grow anymore…” [sounds really simple, doesn’t it? If only... Ed.] A major contribution of $500,000 by the Federal Government helped to bring the project well and truly in the Human Trial stage. Next challenge is how to get it to the areas in the world where it’s needed: Liquid format is too bulky and too expensive. So they are developing a method where it can be ‘powderized’ and at the destination, “just add water”… It’s when I listen to people like Dr Danielle Stanisic, when I realise how much the world, particularly the “developed” regions, owes to scientists such as her and her team. (See the slides of Dr Danielle and PDF Graham Jones’s update on RAM in the Download Section on the right) |
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A personal 'Thank you' visit from South AfricaIsn’t it great to receive some feedback from “the other side”. Thank you for visiting us, Neil! |
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Fast response to our appeal for $1,009 to complete the electricals of the X-Ray Unit![]() (That doesn't mean that the Wheelchair Trust can't do with more donations: the current supply chain problems dictate that we order and commit to purchasing components such as wheels, tyres, castors etc as much as six months in advance.) Click on this link: https://wheelchairtrust.org.au/donate/ PS: The project is far more advanced than is shown in the picture. Time I went out and got some updated photos! ![]() |
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12 years ago: Matafaa Village School, Samoa![]() Good Friday… the pubs aren’t open (OK, I never go to the pub before 11:30 am anyway ![]() The tsunami in 2009 devastated the village and its school. This building followed the same principal design by Des La Rance, as the school our club delivered to Phuket, Thailand, after the tsunami of 2004. This concept (designed to withstand cyclones) is also employed with our current project of an X-Ray unit for Mauna Health Centre, Vanuatu. It’s in our Downloads Section (converted to low-res). Go on! Check it out! |
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Wheelchair Trust receives a $1,000 donation![]() |
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Record Sausage Sizzle at BunningsLast Sunday's glorious weather no doubt contributed to reaching a record result at the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. "We kept running out of sausages..." was the (pleasant) complaint. A big Thank You to all the helpers on the day: Brian Pearson, Uwe Seifert, Paul O'Neill, Charles Thomasson, Mario Fairlie, Gerald East, Ross Augustine, Kristen 'KJ' Jewson, Andy Bell, Doug Lipp (together with two of his grandsons), Al Sirovs, Ray Crowley, yours truly and, of course, organiser Geoff Croad. Geoff organised another date: Friday 29th April 2022. Same roster times. An email will be sent to all members and associates. |
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This Wednesday 13th April: GC Uni Malaria Vaccine Project![]() ![]() |
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Hard at work - Fundraising for the Flood Appeal |
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Last Wednesday's guest speaker: Sophia Seumahu - NYSFLast Wednesday, Sophia gave us a well prepared speech on her experiences. “While I’m not sure about living on Mars one day, I would love to be one of the engineers that help us to land humans on another planet for the first time,” she said. Talking about having set a clear career path! COVID prevented the usual physical gathering at the CSIRO in Canberra; it was all online. The program was packed: 73 live digital sessions with 195 speakers, including two Nobel Prize winners. The experience took them all over the world: From Antarctica to ANSTO (Australia’s Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation) to a live cross to particle physicists at CERN laboratories (Hadron Collider) in Switzerland and back to Parkes and its huge radio telescope. There were also 15 in-person visits in Perth, with others scheduled in other states “when safe to do so”. Sophia is one of the co-founders of a STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) club at her school. “I feel more motivated to study and work hard, knowing that I’m not just doing it to get a good grade but because I love it” she summed up, expressing a sincere Thank You to our club for sponsoring her. You are most welcome, Sophia. Enthusiastic emerging scientists like you are exactly what the NYSF has been designed for. We wish you every success in your future career. Sophia’s full speech is in the Download section on the right. |
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Why I go to Rotary District Conferences![]() Saturday’s program included a local farming couple speaking of the enormous hardship and heartbreak suffered due to the drought and fires. This was a farm which benefited from the ‘Fodder for the West’ program organised by the Rotary Club of Hope Island. I wish I had the writing skills of a Bryce Courtenay |
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District Expo is this week!![]()
The (almost) final program is now on the Downloads section. Go on, check it out! A reminde tr: At this time of the year, Tenterfield can be quite balmy and/or quite chilly, particularly at night. So make sure you pack some warm clothing as well. If you are booked on the Bald Rock breakfast tour on Sunday morning, you need good footwear as well as a torch or a headlamp. |
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Welcome to Surfers Sunrise, Ross Augustine!![]() |
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Who says you are too old to learn a new skill?![]() Picture shows him receiving his certificate from Dot Piddington, a Director of the Gold Coast Bridge Club. Congrats, Brian! |
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District has set up a flood donation account![]() If a donor does not require the donation to have tax deductibility status, it is preferable that donations should be deposited into the following account: Rotary International District 9640 Ltd. BSB: 084462, Account No: 816279059 This is the account to which Rotary clubs should donate. If tax deductibility is required, please use this account: Keith Wilson Relief Trust Fund BSB: 633000 Account No: 175308303 The name of the donor needs to be included on the deposit AND please send via email to PDG Sandra Doumany at srmd@bigpond.net.au (Note: the original post had a typo - this is the correct address): 1. the name of the donor 2. the amount of the deposit 3. any requirement for the donation to be spent on a specific area (if requested). |
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March is Water and Sanitation MonthFor the last two years it was COVID. And here we are: the first serious armed conflict in Europe in well over 50 years [yes, Henrietta, Ukraine is indeed in Europe, and so was Czechoslovakia 😐] and – puff – all other concerns are swept from the front pages. What chances then that a bland, mundane theme such as Water and Sanitation would even come to our conscious mind? OK, exception: over the past two weeks, we’ve had quite a bit too much of the stuff falling out of the sky… In our (relatively) civilized society we take water and sanitation for granted. Isn’t that what we pay Water Rates for? Yet, visualise for a moment: you have no (running) water. (Paradoxically, some regions in District 9640 are in that very position right now; let’s hope it is only temporary). You can’t? Well then, walk out to the street and turn the mains water tap off and see how long you last before you crack. You will also discover that without water, there isn’t any sanitation either. Now, suddenly your problem is bigger than whatever leads the TV news. Well, that is exactly what, in the third decade of the third millennium, an awfully large proportion of our planet’s population faces every day. And it’s not just “over in Africa” (forgive me if that sounds callous). As an individual, in concert with your Rotary club, you very much can make a difference. For example, about 2015, a team from Stanthorpe Rotary Club delivered and installed a massive system to provide secure water to Naiyala High School in Fiji. It didn’t make the evening news on TV, but then, that’s not what Rotary is all about. As Rotarians, we are proudly part of an organisation which boasts the most esteemed of charities, The Rotary Foundation and, on the local scene, the Rotary World Community Service (RAWCS). Click on this link, then apply a filter of ‘Water’ and you’ll find a list of 55 water related RAWCS programs currently running. About 100 years ago, Austrian philosopher Karl Kraus wrote about war: “first, one hopes to win; then one expects the enemy to lose; then, one is satisfied that he too is suffering. In the end, one is surprised that everyone has lost.” As individuals, we can’t do much to change the course of a major conflict. But that doesn’t stop us from winning some battles which bring joy rather than misery. In contrast to an armed conflict, this is a battle that we can win. |
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Ashleigh Symes - Corporate MemberBorn on the Gold Coast, she is the proverbial go-getter: “Whilst I studied for a Bachelor of Commerce and Business, I worked full time in Merchandising with Proctor & Gamble, sold pot plants [no Henrietta, nothing to do with the pot you are thinking about, heavens forbid!], worked as a Mortgage Broker and taught Surf School.” Then she decided to go traveling to Europe, “couch surfing” through France, Spain, Poland, Albania, Romania, just to name a few of the countries. Even hitch-hiking when Romania's public transport system left something to be desired.... In London, she found employment with a Fund Manager, and that is where her initiation to the world of finance started. “...though I started dabbling in shares at 13 years of age, so the subject always fascinated me” she quipped. Upon return to the Gold Coast, Ashleigh was selected by a recruitment agency for Wilsons Advisory, whose local office is located in the Oracle complex in Broadbeach. Her specialisation is in Compliance and providing ‘Strategic Advice’ to private clients. ‘And when you are not providing financial advice?’ was one of the many questions: “Netball, Surf Life Saving (with the local Surfers Paradise SLSC). ‘Any good share buying tips?’ The expected “this is only general advice” popped up. Still, a couple of specific sectors and worthwhile ASX codes were mentioned. [Which ones? Sorry, you should have been there… Ed.] |
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Good Bunnings Sizzle despite the weather |
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This coming Wednesday 23rd: Social brekky at Espresso Bonsai![]() So, instead we'll have our social breakfast at Espresso Bonsai, 66 Thomas Drive, on Chevron Island. Plenty of parking off the road, at the rear of the building - entrance from Anembo Street. Now... Christian, the chief there, offered a free coffee to all of us on arrival! Howzat for a welcome! See you all there at 07:00 am.
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Nigel Fotheringham – Angel FlightNigel outlined a couple of examples: A woman requiring regular dialysis. A child requiring regular chemotherapy, or follow-up treatment after a serious accident. By road and/or train, the trip could take 8 hours each way, and outback roads are not exactly as smooth as the M1! Angel Flight often also takes carers with the patient on the same flight. This is, of course, of huge importance, particularly for children. “This must cost a fortune to run!” I hear you exclaim. Yes, it does indeed. Their 2020-21 Financial Statement shows expenses of over $1.5 Million. And how much financial support do they get from Government (State or Federal)? Zero. Zilch. Nada! [Don’t get me started. Ed.] So, they rely on donations. Their pilots provide not only their time but also their planes free of charge. In the words of C J Dennis, the famous Australian Bush Poet: “I dips me lid.” There is lots more information on their website: https://www.angelflight.org.au/. Angel Flight is a registered charity and donations are tax-deductible. |
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Good to see project shed open again!Good turn up, despite the fairly stringent Covid prevention restrictions we put on. We are back to normal, opening every Wednesday and Saturday morning. But please do observe common sense Covid restrictions. Particularly, please stay away if you are feeling unwell, irrespective of whether you think (or have tested) to have Covid or you think it's just a common cold. Thank you.
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Pre-screening of The Duke cancelled
We understand that any tickets that have already been booked and prepaid will be refunded directly. |
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New Bunnings Sausage Sizzle date![]() As you know, the end of January event had to be canceled due to the COVID situation. Now, the situation has settled down again, Geoff Croad has received the go-ahead from Bunnings Olsen Avenue for a new date for a Sausage Sizzle fundraiser on Friday 25th February 2022 so we need manpower! Only 3 shifts - 4 people minimum required per shift to comply with Bunnings rules.
We require 4 people per shift. Please book your time slot with Geoff directly, by text message or send him an email. NOTE: Several of our "regulars" are unable to participate. Please... |
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Project Shed to re-open this coming SaturdayWheelchair Trust Chairman Larry Murray and our 'Shed Foreman' Bryan Tuesley have decided to open the Project Shed earlier than originally planned: they'll open this coming Saturday morning, 12th February, usual time. Now... not too fast... We are very much concerned about all of our volunteers' wellbeing. So, please take note of the following rules which MUST be adhered to:
Feel free to contact me if I can provide you with further clarification. Best wishes, Franz Huber Club Administration Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise Inc 0484 597 451 |
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Last Wednesday: Kate Worboys on RYTS![]() RYTS is a program with the focus to assist the transition from school into the next phase of life. The program is delivered at a 6 day residential camp for students who are in the senior years of school (Year 11-12). Our club sponsors at least two young persons every year and we have had many “after the event” presentations, but few, if any of the calibre of Kate’s. Meticulously prepared, including a PowerPoint display, she launched off with… a power dance. Hard to describe (ok, it includes the ‘Oh what a feeling!’ jump of a well known car manufacturer). It’s on our Download section for you to view and so is her PowerPoint presentation. Go on, get it! I wish I had the words to effectively describe the combination of the zest of youth, combined with unbridled enthusiasm and competence. Sorry, you should have been there! |
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And whaddya want me to do about it?
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No "official" meeting this Wednesday (Australia Day)This coming Wednesday 26th January is Australia Day, a public holiday and thus we won't have an "official" meeting. Anyone who wants to come over to the Surfers Paradise Surf Club anyway might still find a few fellow Rotarians there, in spite of the fact that two of three of our members (or their family members) are in isolation. As far as we are aware though, none of them are seriously ill; wishing you all a speedy recovery. Next week (Wednesday 2nd February), however, we'll have a planned 'formal' meeting upstairs, with our wheelchair athletes and fellow members Adam Sheppard and Tash Price presenting. Next Wednesday we'll also welcome Kate Worboys, freshly back from her RYTS camp experience. |
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Bunnings sausage sizzle cancelled
Thank you to all the people who offered to help - we'll be in touch when a new date has been set. |
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Project Shed expected to reopen on 19th February![]() However, we expect our regular club meetings to take place as per schedule, every Wednesday morning.
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Our project shed: Future directionThe report from 180 Degrees Consulting is very professional and informative, helping us to identify points of action, most of which we were aware of but had not been fully addressed. It did strongly advise that we take advantage of Social Media to raise our profile and raise funds. Whilst we frequently post to our club’s Facebook page, this is not happening with the Wheelchair Trust website; there are few or no social media posts. It is necessary to appoint an individual to this job, who would, in turn, need additional help as the job can be quite demanding. It was agreed that Mark Twyford and Paul Seymour would talk to their companies’ Social Media specialists to see if they can help. It was suggested it may be a service, we will have to pay for, the matter is to be further developed at the next board meeting where a decision can be made if we do nothing it will be a lost opportunity. The issue of additional shed utilization has so far been a disappointment. All avenues we had explored did not develop into a practical operation; the last attempt was an effort to copy some of the projects they run at Substation 33. I believe this still has potential but is lacking a leader with sufficient technical knowledge. In the meantime, we could consider additional projects utilizing existing facilities, including the manufacture of coffins! Perhaps dog kennels, general pet equipment, including pet coffins? That type of work, if successful, would be undertaken by a different group of people on different days, allowing us to increase the number of days the shed is in operation. When the shed reopens (expected to be on 26th January) we intend to make a few pet products to test the market and will keep the club informed. The shed is open for everyone in the club. Any suggestions or help is very much appreciated. Please, whenever you can, join us for coffee on Saturday mornings. To summarize: we are going to do something about Social Media and actively look at additional products. We encourage members to contact anyone they think could volunteer on Saturday mornings. Larry Murray is Chairman of the Surfers Sunrise Wheelchair Trust, an Australian registered Charity organisation
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This coming Wednesday: The future of our Project Shed
Wheelchair Trust Chairman Larry Murray will outline his views, followed by open discussion of the various points. This is an interactive session - you are invited to actively participate in the discussion!
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So you are freshly out of NY Resolutions?But there is one resolution I have decided to really give a go: Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta's challenge of "Each One, Bring One". Membership is every Rotarian's responsibility. That includes not only finding new members but equal emphasis must be given to ensure that we keep current members engaged and comfortable within our club. Anyone joining me in the challenge?
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Meet Kate Worboys - our RYTS awardee![]() Kate studies at St Hildas Girl's School in Southport, where she is a member of the school's debating team. She already has numerous achievements well worth mentioning, including the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award and the Reuben F. Scarf Memorial Foundation Award. She participated in the State Athletics Championship (Javelin is her forte) as well as in the BSRA Rowing Championships and many other sports. Congratulations! Looking forward to your presentation upon your return. Kate will join us on 2nd February for a brief outline of her experiences.
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It's History now, but it was great!![]() (There is also a brief video on our facebook page www.facebook.com/rcsurferssunrise) |
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Big weekend at Surfers Sunrise!![]() |
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Meet Sophia Seumahu, our NYSF AwardeeSophia will go into Year 12 next year at Kings Christian College. There is no doubt that she is VERY enthusiastic about STEM - almost bubbling with the joy of expectation, the anticipation of meeting or having direct online conversations with a STEM enthusiast's equivalent of a rock star... Her speech was delivered fluently - not a single 'like...', 'uuhmmm...' one normally expects from a young person (as well as from some not very young either! ☺). Read her well-structured and informative speech - it is in the Download Section on the right. Sophia will be doing a full presentation on her experiences on 2nd March 2022. (Photo: Sophia with her father Ben (left) and PDG Darrell Brown, our District's Chair of Youth Programs.) |
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December’s monthly theme is Disease Prevention and TreatmentWhen we think of Rotary + Disease Prevention, our first thought goes to that humongous international project, Polio Plus, the eradication of Polio. It was started just a bit over a year before our club was chartered in February 1987, with a budget of – then – eyewatering $US 120 Million. At the time, there were an estimated 350,000 cases of Polio in 125 countries. Since then, 2.5 Billion children have been immunised. Today, Polio cases have been reduced by 99.99%, with only very few cases remaining in regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan, almost impossible to access. But let’s look closer to home: In our club, Surfers Sunrise, we have the almost completed X-Ray Unit for Vanuatu, and of course our ‘Rough Terrain’ wheelchairs our volunteers manufacture by repurposing unwanted bicycles. For the latter, one might argue that it cannot be classified into ‘preventing disease’. Think again. ![]() Nationally, in Australia and New Zealand we have Australian Rotary Health (formerly called the Australian Rotary Health Research Fund). This fund awards around $1 Million every year in grants to researchers in various disciplines, but primarily relating to mental health, as well as scholarships for training of indigenous nurses. Another important District Project: the Human Brain Research Project. The program funds a 3 year program for a PHD student doing research into Parkinson’s Disease. There are various other both local as well as international projects at both individual club as well as at our District level aimed at Disease Prevention and Treatment. Check out our District Website. |
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Many of our members are regulars at the Project Shed |
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Not all our wheelchairs go to children![]() ![]() |
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Collecting Gold Coins at Horizon Boat Show![]() Picture above shows Trent and Joe (President) setting up. Good work, fellows!
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Thank you letter from Kilu'ufi Hospital, Solomon Islands![]() "... this donation will for sure touch the lives of some of our patients, which will enable them mobilised..." The full letter is in the download section on the right. All of you who work on wheelchairs and/or are involved in getting them to the "end-user" and raise funds to make it possible: give yourself a pat on the back!
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Remember all those chairs we cleaned up?Give yourself a pat on the back, people!
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Yes, TWO fundraisers this coming weekend!In addition to the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle on Sunday 21st November (organiser: Geoff Croad), our new member Paul O'Neill is arranging a roster to collect Parking Fee Gold Coins at the Horizon Shores Boat Show this coming weekend, from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st November 2021. It is at 80 Cabbage Tree Point Road Steiglitz 4207 (Jacob's Creek). This could, of course, result in an annual fundraiser. Two people required for each time slot: Friday 19th November, 3:45 pm to 7:30 pm Saturday 20th November, 08:30 am to 12:00 pm Saturday 20th November, 11:45 am to 4 pm Sunday 21st November, 08:30 am to 12:00 pm Sunday 21st November, 11:45 am to 4 pm Paul has arranged all the gear (buckets, vests, Square terminals etc). Of course, why not stay and check out the boats while you are there? Click here for tickets to the boat show
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Last Wednesday: Bill Edgar – The Coffin Confessor![]() But that, in 50 words, tells you the basics of this extraordinary man. Bill Edgar, last Wednesday’s guest speaker, briefly started by outlining his career: from living on the streets of Surfers Paradise, to gaining a full scholarship at a prestigious private school (and leaving it), to becoming a nightclub bouncer, to becoming a licensed Private Detective. But what is quite unique about Bill is his self-described business: ‘The Coffin Confessor’ started off when one of his clients, on his death bed, engaged him to – literally – “crash” his upcoming funeral and interrupt the service. His client, very unhappy to find out that his best mate was trying to have an affair with his wife, wanted it to be known to everyone. They are not necessarily all as vindictive as that. Take another one of his clients, the Sergeant of one of the big bikie gangs: he desired to be buried together with his Harley. “Can’t be done!” they said. “Can be done indeed!” said Bill, and arranged it. Another wanted to be sure that his family wouldn’t find out about his very deep secret; all evidence was to be removed. The evidence? In his basement, he had a sex dungeon… Bill makes sure that it is all proven and above board: everything is pre-investigated to ensure it is true, all interviews are recorded. Meanwhile, Penguin has published his book and he has secured a deal for the movie rights. Like to get a more detailed account? Get Bill’s book ‘The Coffin Confessor’! |
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Thank you, D'Arcy Arms, we appreciate your support![]() |
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This coming Wednesday: Bill Edgar - The Coffin Confessor
This is a must attend event - I assure you, you won't be disappointed. "Supporting Act": Ellen Wark, who is in charge of Administration of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award), will visit us to give us a brief outline of what RYLA is all about. Over the years, we have supported dozens of RYLA awardees. The most recent: Kristen 'KJ' Jewson and Sasha Kimber back in January this year. |
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Excellent Surfers Sunrise annual Golf Day |
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This year's Lutzy Award goes to Jett Milford-Ferguson(Photo - from left: President Paul Seymour, Jan Lutz, Jett Milford - Ferguson, David Orchy, Charles Thomasson) |
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Last Friday: Polio Plus Train and Tram Ride![]() |
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Anyone knows a concreter "with heart"? |
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Polio Plus Train Ride this coming Friday![]() Going to the Italian Long Lunch? You'll have plenty of time to get there!
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New compressor has arrived at the Project Shed![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Angus Miller arranged for the pickup and at the same time also picked up two massive new batteries for our motorised pallet lift.
Photo shows him contemplating whether to lift it off the ute by himself, but then thought the better of it... See above. (Photos by Paul Seymour) |
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Last Wednesday: AFL legend Simon Black![]() Paul Smith skilfully “interviewed” Simon on his background. You can obtain a lot of data from his Wikipedia page, so let’s concentrate on some personal stuff: In one of his first sessions with Brisbane Lions super-coach Leigh Matthews, he learned about how tough it is to reach the Senior team in an AFL club:“I’ll be here in 2 years’ time, but I don’t know how many of you will be.” Naturally, the glory years were mentioned: three consecutive Premierships in 2001, 2002 and 2003, and almost a fourth one in 2004. If ever there was a lesson in team play: “Play your role” the coach would insist, “and accept your role. Your individual reputation entirely depends on your team’s reputation.” Today, Simon is coaching the Brisbane Lion’s “forward line and attacking systems” (watch that video again to see what is meant by this). In addition, he runs the Simon Black Australian Rules Academy, teaching young men the skills of playing Aussie Rules whilst gaining a Diploma in Sports Development or even a Bachelor of Business – Sports Management. “In the morning, we wear them out, in the afternoon we get them to study” he said. Oh, did I mention that, in 2019, Simon also competed in the ‘Australian Survivor’ series? Not enough space here to describe it, click here for more details. Photo (from left): Charles Thomasson, President Paul Seymour, Simon Black, Paul Smith |
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Great Sausage Sizzle at Bunnings![]() |
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Italian Long Lunch this Friday 22nd OctoberThere will be plenty of Italian style Christmas dishes. Johnny has secured a major sponsor: My Carte, and a number of corporate tables have been sold as well. The price includes all food, unlimited wine and beer, entertainment. All proceeds go towards the X-Ray Unit and Blood Analyser for Vanuatu. Note: COVID restrictions impose an upper limit of just 120 attendees. |
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DG Jeff Egan had the congregation captivated![]() I've heard people comparing Rotary to be a close substitute for church. [Don't shoot the piano player! I am well aware of Rotary's principle of being non-denominational etc. But guilty as charged. Ed]. But when Al Sirovs sent me this shot he took last Wednesday of "the congregation" paying close attention to District Governor Jeff Egan's address via Zoom, I couldn't help the comparison... The big monitor was placed quite high above, just as the pulpit would be in a cathedral. DG Jeff, you had them spellbound!
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A BIG Thank You to Ball & DoggettErnie Bargewell (centre), accepted the certificate on behalf of the donor, representing his company Ball & Doggett. In the background on TV is our District Governor Jeff Egan, who joined our meeting via Zoom. |
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This coming Wednesday: Meeting at the Project ShedA hearty Bacon & Eggs breakfast will be provided (yes, we'll have some food suitable for Health & Fitness adherents too). Chief Designer and Mover & Shaker, Des La Rance will showcase our wheelchairs as well as the Mauna Health Centre X-Ray project, which is now getting close to lock-up stage. See you there from 07:00 am!
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"Our" Tash Price wins Myabetic Diabetes Award!Our hearty congratulations, we are so proud, Tash and Adam, to count you among our membership.
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Finally, the Paul Harris Fellowship pins have arrived!![]() |
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Brian Pearson: Cooking, my passion![]() At last Wednesday's meeting, our new Surfers Sunrise Rotary member Brian Pearson, who recently transferred to our club, gave us an insight into his background. As is customary at Surfers Sunrise, new members are encouraged to expand their 'Rotarian behind the Badge' talks to include one of their major hobbies or passions. Brian opened his talk about his culinary journey around the World. He invoked the memory of food rationing in post-World War Two Britain which continued into the early years of the 1950s. After briefly touching upon his early life in Grimsby and work as a sales manager in speciality chemicals, he regaled members with colourful stories of gastronomic explorations, first in Europe and northern Africa and then later, after relocating to East Asia and marrying, some of the more exotic dishes he savoured, including a Cobra Cocktail (of sorts) and various indecisive seafood dishes. Brian shared his love for cooking and provided his recipe for the best Wagyu steak – ever. His mantra to eat the local cuisine rather than their attempts at replicating western dishes was perhaps, given some of the more bizarre dishes he had described earlier, lost on some members... (Photo, by Andy Bell: Brian (left) is presented a 'Thank you!' by meeting chairman of the day, Larry Murray.)
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September is Basic Education and Literacy month
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Surfers Sunrise Golf Day: Monday 25th October![]() ![]()
Chief organizer Charles Thomasson is looking both for players as well as helpers. If you and/or your friends, associates, customers, suppliers want to play: Bookings have now opened - click on this link https://www.trybooking.com/BTZXE or click on this QR Code. Bookings will close 6 pm this Wednesday 20th October! |
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A whole bunch of Paul Harris Fellows |
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Presentation of the Lutzy Award in two weeks![]() All pre-booked tickets have been retained, but of course, you mightn't have been able to participate on the original date, or you may want to invite some friends to come along. Here is the link to book: https://www.trybooking.com/BTFCL. Choose from the menu when booking: Poached or fried eggs, bacon or sausages, and if you prefer a vegetarian meal: a bowl of Acai with toasted granola, shredded coconut and fruits. Bookings close on Sunday night, 12th September. Please feel free to contact Franz if you require further information.
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Big Saturday coming up at the Project ShedCol Laurenson has arranged for an empty container to be delivered at the Project Shed this Friday, in readiness for it to be loaded on Saturday. We have a large trailer load of school desks and chairs coming in from Toowoomba. They might need some TLC to clean them up before we load them. Col advises that loading desks and chairs is “a bit of a jigsaw puzzle” to optimize the space. ![]() While we are on the subject: a huge ‘Thank You!’ goes to Neil Thurlow who donated a massive compressor and associated accessories, worth several thousands of dollars (see photo right). ‘On ya, Neil! |
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Bunnings Sausage Sizzle in perfect weather(Photo, from left: Charles, Johnny, Johnny's partner Catherine and a customer)
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Meet our newest member: Brian PearsonIf you hear him speak, you'd know that he has a mild accent... [ok, I hear you, no need to shout! ☺ Ed.] His career involved Speciality Chemicals, culminating in 12 years in Hong Kong as Managing Director of the North Asian Subsidiary of a U.K. chemical company. Brian moved to Australia in 1999 and subsequently retired here, joining the Rotary Club of Broadbeach in 2008. He served as club Secretary, and 2 years later as President. He also held positions as Foundation Director and Bulletin Editor for several years. In 2011/12 Brian was elected as District Secretary and served under DG Graham Jones and again the following year under Sandra Domany. He also served as District Polio Chair and District Chair of ROMAC. |
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Thank you, Nicole Hickey![Old German Proverb: "Der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm.' Translated: 'The apple doesn't fall far from the trunk'. The English equivalent is 'A chip off the old block'. I think the German one is more precise... Ed.]
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Who can be invited to join Surfers Sunrise Rotary?These days, the rules are very simple and straightforward. Here is an extract from the Membership section of our Club Consitution of 2019 (1): Section 1 — General Qualifications. This club shall be composed of adult persons who demonstrate good character, integrity, and leadership; possess a good reputation within their business, profession, and/or community; and are willing to serve in their community and/or around the world. That should be simple enough. In other words, the majority of people in your circle of friends, in business, your suppliers, your customers qualify. Rotary is absolutely non-denominational, absolutely gender-neutral. All we ask for is of good character, has integrity, and a good reputation. Start making a list and invite them to come to one of our meetings. (1) Members can download the Club Constitution from our website: (you need to login to the Member Area, top right of home page), then select Organisation, Documents and search for Constitution. |
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Why would one want to join Rotary?The Opportunity to Serve Rotarians provide service at both the community and international levels. Our club, Surfers Sunrise is most prominent in International Service (our Project Shed) and Youth Services, where we support a broad spectrum of events. Being a member gives you the fulfillment that comes from giving back to the community. Professional Networking A founding principle of Rotary was to provide a forum for professional and business leaders. Members are leaders in business, industry, the professions, the arts, government, sports, the military, and religion. They make decisions and influence policy. Rotary is the oldest, most prestigious service club organization in the world. Personal Growth and Development Membership in Rotary ensures continuing personal development. Leadership, public speaking and communication, organization and planning, team-building and fundraising are just a sampling of the skills that can be exercised and enhanced through Rotary. Friendship Fellowship was a primary reason Rotary was started in 1905, and it remains a major attraction. Today, with more than 32,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries, Rotarians have friends wherever they go. Rotary helps to build community as well as enduring friendships. Did you know that you can join any Rotary club meeting in any country in the world? No need to be invited. You can simply turn up and say "G'day!, I'm from the Surfers Sunrise Rotary Club, on the Gold Coast..." There is a person whom you thought to invite. Do it now.! |
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Project Shed to open again this coming Saturday![]() |
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Each one, bring one.Now, those of you who have been in business and/or in sales: To get one prospect you have to ask many more people than just one. To get one new customer, you need to have many prospects. Finding suitable Rotarians is really no different. And just as you would have determined the parameters for your ideal customer, you should do likewise when determining who is suitable to become a Rotarian. As President Paul outlined in his brief address at the changeover: we are looking for quality. Need some ammunition? Refer your potential member to our website www.rotarysurferssunrise.org and our Facebook page www.facebook.com/rcsurferssunrise. Both are maintained constantly. On top of that, we have the new sites relating to our Project Shed: www.wheelchairtrust.org.au and www.maunahealthcentre.com, recently set up by KJ Jewson and Matt Hayward. |
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This thing weighs a ton! (Well, a quarter ton anyway!)![]() |
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'You Beauty!' Changeover at EdgewaterAfter MC Andy Bell's welcome, Secretary Mitch Brown proposed a toast to Rotary International. "Our" resident Past District Governor Darrell Brown responded, highlighting (now Past) District Governor Andy Rajapakse's major goal of increasing the membership from 1210 at the beginning of the year to a "moonshot" total of 1400. Impossible! they said. Well, that number was indeed achieved, but as is not unusual, at the end of the year, numbers slightly dropped to an excellent 1376. District 9640 can now boast of having the largest membership in our Zone. (Now Past) President Charles Thomasson outlined a summary of the past 12 months' major highlights: The continued re-organisation of the Project Shed, the Italian Long Lunchand the Golf Day major fundraisers, the induction of new members. Our commitment to the X-Ray Unit for Vanuatu project, the new websites for the Wheelchair Trust and the Vanuatu projects. He foreshadowed that another Lutzy Award presentation coming up on 4th August. Charles then moved on to present special recognitions:
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Project Shed to re-open this SaturdayUnless new COVID rules appear before, our Project Shed at Arundel will re-open this coming Saturday 24th July 2021 and onwards every Wednesday and Saturday mornings. Note, you will need to check-in using the Qld Government Check-in App. All the usual COVID rules apply.
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District 9640 Q&A Sessions![]()
The Gold Coast session is on Sunday 22nd August 09:00 am for 09:30 am start. Mowbray Surf Club, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads Bookings close - Friday 13th August Price of $20.00 includes a light lunch. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about effective project planning and creating a vibrant and inclusive Club through membership retention with members of the District Leadership team. There will also be plenty of opportunities to discuss matters raised by the on-line District Assembly presentations. |
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This coming Wednesday 21st July: Breakfast at EdgewaterWith the ongoing COVID restrictions announced, we could not secure a date within a reasonable time period with The Links Resort to accommodate our numbers for a Luncheon. Thus, the decision was made to instead have a Changeover Breakfast next Wednesday 21st July 2021 (from 07:00 am, for 07:30 am start) at Edgewater Dining Shop 3 G7, Capri on Via Roma Isle of Capri 4217 (same place as last year). We'll have the entire restaurant to ourselves, and the menu will again be a delicious pre-selection of “The Halloumi” (Vegetarian) or “Classic Benedict” Tea, Coffee or Juice The cost per person is $30.00. Bookings have closed and we have advised the restaurant of numbers. If you haven't booked, but would like to attend, please call convener Graeme Isaacson directly. See you there! |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Malia McMahonSo it came as a quite refreshing change to see Malia McMahon, just 14 years old, quite confidently get up in front of a bunch of mostly elderly, mostly unsmiling gentlemen [OK, I said mostly, there were some young members as well as ladies there too! ☺ Ed.] and give us a presentation about herself and particularly about her experiences at the recent RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program for Enrichment) camp. RYPEN is for 14 – 16 year olds, ‘designed to develop skills that will assist them in transition to adulthood. She was nominated by the Surfers Paradise SLSC as an emerging leader and sponsored by our Rotary club. You can download Malia’s full speech, well worth reading, from the Download Section on the right, so I won’t rehash it. But one of the outstanding moments was when she briefly struggled with her emotions. “The CODID-19 lockdown in 2020 was one of the hardest things I’ve probably ever experienced. I experienced frustration… anger… tears… and for the first time in my life… a form of depression.” Malia described the typical symptoms of depression she experienced: lack of motivation to accomplish anything, wanting to do nothing but sleep all day… With a bit of ‘physical close standing by’ from her mum, she quickly recovered herself though. And that is the hallmark of a future leader: the ability to recover, to regain control. Thank you Malia. That was impressive indeed. Photo: Malia (right) with the meeting's Chairman, Ashleigh Symes |
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Gold Coast Makers Rotaract Club features in RDU![]() ![]() |
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Excellent fundraiser at the Gold Coast Small Business ExpoPicture: front Matt Hayward and organiser Darrell Brown; at rear Franz Huber, Adrian Crowe, incoming President Paul Seymour, Al Sirovs). Another couple of pictures on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rcsurferssunrise
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Meet our volunteers: Jimmy Pearce![]() He was born some 67 years ago in Invercargill, on the very southern end of the New Zealand South Island. (Yes, they breed them tough down there; there isn’t much between that town and Antarctica…) Jimmy's vocation - and passion - is Building Construction, and specifically, the management of major commercial projects. Jimmy is a citizen of the world: his career took him to places such as New Caledonia, Amsterdam, the UK. One of his major projects was with Jacobs Engineering Group in their Singapore branch, where he had a senior role in the construction of a major centre for a Pharmaceutical company. “That was not only one of the most remarkable projects I’d done, but I also learned a lot there about modern construction methods,” he said. Today, he still keeps fully active, not just at our Project Shed, but he also is in charge of maintenance at the Tamborine Mountain College. But it’s not just large-scale construction: one of Jimmy’s hobbies is fine woodworking. He recently built his own guitar, and is now learning how to play it! To balance the physical work, he follows his other hobbies of Computer Assisted Design, listens to Rock: ”Uriah Heep, Jimmy Barnes (think Working Class Man… ☺) and the like”, and keeps fit. Very fit, working out at the Gym, Martial Arts, walking about 10 Km a day… Unfortunately, some 5 years ago, Jimmy’s wife passed away quite suddenly, due to a severe Melanoma. “I’m still finding the transition to being single again quite difficult”, he said. His daughter lives in Invercargill, and he is the proud grandfather of four grandkids. Welcome to the Surfers Sunrise Project Shed, Jimmy! |
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Charles Thomasson: State of the Market
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Wonderful feedback from South Africa![]() A copy of their report, as well as some photo compilations, can be accessed from the Download Page on the right. How good is that! Photo above: Do we have an African model of our 'Happy' boy who is displayed on our promo material?
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New Wheelchair Trust website bears fruit![]() The sites are already live. Still, the main developers, Craig Parker (Digital Connections), Rotaractors Kristen 'KJ' Jewson and Matt Haywood continue to spend serious time on further enhancement. Click on these links: A big THANK YOU! go to the dedicated development team, who all worked on a voluntary basis. Furthermore, Craig Parker arranged free Google Adwords advertising. All going according to plan, this should assist us to raise much needed funds in support of our wheelchairs and building projects.
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Inaugural Repair Café and Tool Library at our Project Shed![]() ![]() Group photo: President of the GC Makers Rotaract club, Blake Foster (third from right) and Harrison Howick (4th from right). Second photo: Our treasurer Doug Lipp gets his edge trimmer fixed.
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Neil Thurlow wants you to join him to ride 400 Km with him![]() Neil is our master printer who supports Rotary all year round by providing printing services either at no charge or at a ridiculously low price. Now it's your turn.
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GC Business Expo 23 - 24. June: Helpers neededWe have again been offered to do the 'Bump-in' and 'Bump-out' at the Gold Coast Business Expo as well as for the Gold Coin collection post at the car park and at the door. Looking for helpers on both days: Wednesday 23/06/21 at 2:00 pm Bump-in: some more people would be good Thursday 24/05/21 at 3:30 pm Bump-out - need lots more Thursday 24/06/21 Gold Coin Collection 08:00 am - 10:00 am - 3 people needed 10:00 am - 12:00 am - 3 people needed, tapering off to 2 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm - 2 people, tapering off to 1 Please email Darrell Brown directly the times you can be there, or call him on his mobile, thank you. |
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George Keily ongoing drive to collect spectacles![]() ![]() |
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This Wednesday 26th May: KJ Jewson and Sasha KimberSee you at the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, 07:00 am! Grab your breakfast at the bistro downstairs and take it to the upstairs venue for some fellowship before the meeting starts at 07:30 am sharp.
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WHAT? Where is this leading to?![]() Over my last 34 odd years of Rotary membership, I’ve attended most of the annual conferences. This was the first time it was shortened to just one day, and thus some of the most enjoyable and important ingredients, such as the Friday and Saturday night events and their associated “deep” networking, were sadly missing. But there was plenty of the conventional stuff too: The Entrance of the Flags, led by Angie Bell MP (she was an Exchange Student to Denmark), Dr Michael Pyne talking about the Koala Chlamydia epidemic, Prof Michael Good AO on the status of the Malaria Vaccine project which is massively supported by Rotary. Attending a District Conference is somewhat akin to recharging the old “Rotary Enthusiasm” batteries. Or perhaps I could compare it to applying a good cut and polish: Presentations such as the interview by the District’s Youth Programs Chair, “our” PDG Darrell Brown, with four awardees of leadership development programs (picture above), reinforce one’s commitment “to the cause”. You should have been there!
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Last Wednesday's Guest Speaker: Vandy S Kamara![]() Located “about 3 – 4 hours’ drive from the nearest town”, the school provides education to underprivileged children. Since his presentation last year, the school has been expanded to cater for the increased enrolments. They have also invested in teacher training and provided learning materials and resources. Vandy is coordinating with the local village chiefs to source some building materials locally. But a lot of building materials such as cement and iron rods need to be imported. Vandy, who works at Wesley Mission Queensland caring for homeless people in various areas all the way to Katherine in the Northern Territory, emigrated to Australia some 11 years ago. Talking about applying the proverbial Aussie "Have a go" principle! He holds numerous academic achievements, including a Master of Public Health and an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management. Although last year his application to a World Peace & Conflict Resolution Scholarship was unsuccessful, our club nominated him again upon instigation by the Rotary Foundation to apply again this year. Photo: Vandy’ (centre) with President Charles Thomasson, Rebecca and Tanya from Wesley Mission and Ray Higgs. Vandy's presentation is in the Download Section on the right. |
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District 9640 Conference is this coming Saturday![]() Among the hugely interesting keynote speakers is Jason Browne (via Zoom), Public Image Co-Ordinator, Zone 28 & 29, Pennsylvania State University Rotary Club, on "Can we make M&M's in Rotary?" Click here for more information and to book. Note: Officially, bookings closed on 1st May, but if you hurry, you might still be able to slip in...
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This coming Wednesday, 12th May: Vandy S Kamara![]() |
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X-Ray Unit for Vanuatu will be "Completely Knocked Down"![]() |
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May is 'Youth Services' month![]() ![]() In addition, this year Youth Services Director Darrell Brown has budgeted to support a candidate for MUNA (Model United Nations Assembly, happening this weekend!). Of course, we have met our Rotaractors KJ Jewson, Matt Howard, Blake Foster, Chumani Brookhouse, Harrison Howick and many other Rotaractors who helped on the Vanuatu project at the shed and on our new website. Is your head spinning yet? Yes, Rotary has so much to offer. [In my next life, I might join a ![]() ![]() This month's edition of Rotary Down Under magazine has a special feature on Youth Service. Click here to access an online version of the magazine. |
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Last Wednesday's Guest Speaker: Angie Bell MP![]() There would be so much material to talk about. Angie selected her travel to Bangladesh in January last year, on behalf of the ‘Save the Children’ fund, visiting refugee camps. “I witnessed a small girl chopping off the nails of chicken feet to supplement the food in her mum’s wok” she graphically outlined the experience. The problems faced are immense. The camps total around 1.1 million people, some 750,000 recent arrivals alone people who escaped persecution in Myanmar. To accommodate the camps, virgin jungle is torn up, in the process seriously threatening the survival of wildlife, such as the Indian Elephant. On the local scene, Angie works closely with Ministers Stuart Roberts and Karen Andrews on the ‘Re-imagine Gold Coast’ project. Space does not permit us to elaborate, but find out all about it: click on this link to download it all from Angie’s website. In summary: Isn't it refreshing indeed to listen to a Member of Parliament who can fluently put some words together, speak freshly and coherently “off the cuff” and, most importantly, who talks sense! |
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More feedback from South AfricaIt's always a great pleasure to receive news from "end users" of our wheelchairs. Here is an update from Heather Howard of the Rotary Club of Port Alfred, South Africa, one of the clubs which was allocated about 40 from a container we recently sent there (refer bulletin of 27th January 2021 for last update): Just in case you were wondering about our progress, we write to confirm that we have distributed almost all our 20 wheelchairs and have been given two extra by Kenton because we have found such a need here. We have sourced the recipients through the local health clinics which has proved very effective, and have been travelling round delivering the chairs to excited and grateful people, young and old, or their carers. As soon as we have completed the distribution, we’ll be reporting to you with signed forms and the relevant photograph on each form, and also with a report. In the meantime, we attach a newspaper cutting featuring the story. [You can download it for full viewing - see Download Section on the right. Ed.] There is a good chance that we'll hook up to have a Zoom meeting soon - watch this space! ![]() |
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This coming Wednesday 28th April: Angie Bell MP |
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Tash Price wins Bronze at National Championships![]() |
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Baton Relay - RC of Parkwood transfers to Surfers Sunrise![]() |
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Great BBQ Breakfast at the Project ShedFor the benefit of our visitors, President Charles Thomasson briefly outlined our wheelchairs and building projects, in particular the current project to provide an X-Ray unit for the hospital on Pentecost Island in Vanuatu. Project Services Director Larry Murray provided additional detail, and particularly highlighted the contribution of our member Ben Illes, who arranged the donation of all timber by Paradise Timber & Trusses. Thank you! President Elect Paul Seymour foreshadowed our Changeover Luncheon to be on Sunday 4th July 2021. Details to follow, but put into your diary now. Mario Fairlie has organised a meeting for this coming Saturday 17th April at 08:00 am at the Community Centre adjacent to the shed. Its principal purpose is to elaborate on the Global Grant application to be submitted to raise the total of $100,000 required for the X-Ray equipment for Vanuatu. Photo: Wheelchair Trustee Peter Morgan, Volunteer Brian Mitchell getting served by our BBQ Chef Angus Miller |
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Tash Price in 3 events at the National Athletics Championships![]() ![]() |
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This coming Wednesday 14th April: Breakfast at the Project Shed![]() ![]() But there is more! See next story.
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Nationwide Forklifts donates two Pallet Jacks![]() |
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Tony Schaper delivers another load of... what??![]() |
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Remember our "pocket rocket" from Italy?![]() ![]() |
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Welcome to our newest member: Trent Belling |
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Jeremy Bishop – The Realities of RainJeremy Bishop, who describes himself as an ‘Engagement Advisor’, together with his co-worker Katrina Lambert, provided us with a very professional, concise presentation on the huge organisation which quietly ensures that such a nightmare scenario will not happen. In control of some $11 Billion worth of dams, water treatment plants and pipelines, SEQ Water doesn’t just provide drinking and bath water, but also irrigation water to 1200 farmers. Remember the “Millennium Drought”? It wasn’t pretty. The Hinze Dam (at that time Stage 3 hadn’t been built yet), as well as overall dam levels in South East Queensland went on average to around the 20% mark. Meanwhile, we have a Desalination Plant and Stage 3 of the Hinze Dam, built in 2011, doubled its capacity to over 310,000 Million Litres. Our ‘Water Grid’ boasts some 600 Km of bi-directional water pipeline. Space does not permit to outline Jeremy’s seminar in detail, but on the Download Pages (right side) you will find a PDF of his PowerPoint which is very interesting reading indeed. (Photo, from left: Chairman of the day, Peter Morgan, Katrina Lambert, SEQ Water, Jeremy Bishop) |
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Neil Thurlow promotes Rotary in Ipswich![]() 'On ya, Neil!
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This coming Wednesday 17th March: The Realities of Rain
Big morning coming up! Members & Associates: Please wear your Club T-Shirt. (KJ wants to take a photo of us for the new Wheelchair Trust website.) |
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From Major General (Rtd) Susil Chandrapala: Thank you for the wheelchairs![]() ![]() Thank you for the feedback, General. Good to hear that together we are all making a difference!
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Meet our volunteers: Ben LootsIn 1983, he moved with his family to New Zealand (“for two years” – haven’t we heard that before!), where he worked in Industrial Automation for 7 years, then started his own company, specialising in Voice – Data – Radio communications. In 2002 he sold his business and came across the ditch to Australia, where he specialised in Nuclear Medicine, before coming to the Gold Coast in 2013, continuing in his technical career in keeping medical electronics working. Ben’s interests are very wide: Firstly, he reads “anything to do with technology” [some people might call him a ‘Nerd’… Ed.] Electronics is not just his profession, it is one of his hobbies too. He is an avid photographer – “I have about four cameras... or so” he commented. Add to that Alternative Energy, Environmental Science (in 2014 he won a federal award for his work in cleaning up a waterway in the estate where he lives), even small scale food production. So it’s all technology? Oh no! Ben also sings in a choir (contemporary), and for relaxation listens to 60’s and 70’s Rock n Roll (Beatles, Clearwater Revival), reads good novels (Jeffrey Archer is his favorite author) and (ahem) books, internet posts and magazine articles on Nuclear Fusion, Particle Physics… |
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Wheelchairs getting deployed in South AfricaYou know that recently we despatched a container load of wheelchairs to South Africa, via the Rotary e-Club of South Africa. Here is some feedback: we received an email from the Rotary Club of Port Alfred, South Africa: We have just taken delivery of 30 wheelchair kits, 20 for Port Alfred and 10 for Rotary Club of Kenton on Sea, (25kms from us along the Eastern Cape coast, halfway between Durban and Cape Town, both surfing centres). We have so far made one prototype this week and were excited to see it taking shape; very simple but clever design, sturdy and manoeuvrable when done. It took us 50 minutes after a couple of false starts but we reckon 25 mins maximum now we know what we are doing! We wanted to bring the story to our local press, our Rotary Africa Magazine and to Facebook so we have looked up the story on your webpage and would now like to Distribution will be handled soon. There is such a need for this sort of robust conveyance that we shall have no difficulty in placing them. We thought of attaching safety belts, have you any ideas about this? Thank you also for the knitted jerseys which we will distribute. Do your Rotary Anns do these? With congratulations on this great project, and best wishes Heather Howard for Rotary Club of Port Alfred. |
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Tammy Richie: The Art of Limitless LivingToday, Tammy is an entrepreneur, a motivational speaker, a trainer. She created a training program with the theme of “How to jump over yourself”. She teaches teamwork, how to work together to achieve a better outcome than working individually, how to visualise their aims, how the choices you have made throughout your live affect your future. “But be careful what you ask for though!” Tammy cautioned [haven’t we learned that before - the hard way! Ed.] . Another skill she trains is First Aid. First Aid? “Well no, it’s not sexy” she laconically mentioned. But it is a skill she greatly benefited from when, some 16 years ago, she found her 16 month old toddler son floating face down in her swimming pool. Yes! He survived. Read more about the services Tammy offers on her websites: www.youcan2.com.au and www.firstaidyoucan2.com.au or to contact her by email, click here
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Meet our Volunteers: Bryan TuesleyBorn in 1952, Bryan is a proud third generation Southport citizen. (Yes! In 1920, his grandfather ran the Ferry Service from Carrara to Benowa!) He joined the Gold Coast Bulletin in 1968 as an apprentice. Some 40 years later, when he was forced to retire early due to health issues, he had been the longest serving staff member there. Bryan’s involvement with Rotary goes all the way back some 48 years, to when he met his wife Lesley at a Rotaract event in Brisbane. After some travel through Europe, they became engaged in 1979 and married a year later. Their two daughters are both professionals in Marine Biology and Aged Care respectively. We all know Bryan as a sort of “Volunteer Foreman” at our Project Shed. But what does he do when he is not toiling there every Wednesday and Saturday (and often on other days too)? “I go camping!” he said. “Or I read a good book (Sydney Sheldon and Wilbur Smith are two of his most liked writers), or I listen to “good ol Rock n Roll”, Glen Campbell or… wait for it… Michael Jackson…” [Michael Jackson?? Bad? No, it's Off the Wall, probably Dangerous! What a Thriller! Try and visualise Bryan moonwalking...☺ Ed.] And there is a big goal ahead: to travel our wide brown land! The Caravan is ready to roll… Picture below (provided by Bryan): Tuesley's Broadwater to Tippler's Ferry. ![]() |
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Surfers Sunrise had two Awardees at this year's RYLA![]() |
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Briana Dorrough: National Youth Science ForumOur club sponsored her to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). Normally held in Canberra, this year COVID-19 forced it to go on-line. Still, so Briana enthused, it was very worthwhile indeed! “I found NYSF’s most valuable resource to be their range of STEM experts” she said. Among these were Professor Barry Marshall, Dr Carola Vinuesa and Professor Brian P Schmidt. Both Professors Marshall and Schmidt are Nobel Prize Laureates, Dr. Vinuesa is the co-director of personalised medicine at ANU. Briana made it clear that attending the NYSF is not just about pure science but about live values, such as the value of perseverance. A point in case is Prof Barry Marshall, whose discovery of a cure for duodenal ulcers earned him the Nobel Prize. “There were over 20 years between his original discovery and his receiving of a Nobel Prize”, she said, then cited the Professor: “If you have the facts, you don’t have to worry if nobody believes you.” Question Time, as expected, was boisterous. What are your future plans? she was asked. “I changed my initial intentions of a career in computer science or biomedicals to go for medicine” she said. Other than Science, Briana is involved in the Duke of Edenborough program, studies Literature, High Level Maths, Classical Singing (she participates in the choir), helps in Student Prep and Debating. Briana’s PowerPoint presentation and her corresponding speech is available from the Download Section on the right. You should run the two concurrently, the text shows when to change slides. Photo, from left: President Charles Thomasson, Briana's father Michael Dorrough and Briana Dorrough. |
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Queuing up at the Australia Day Sizzle![]() |
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Very special event last Saturday at the Shed![]() ![]() |
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This coming Wednesday 3rd Feb: Briana Dorrough |
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Wheelchairs have arrived in South Africa![]() |
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Last Wednesday's speakers: Adam Sheppard and Tash PriceLast Wednesday, our new members Adam Sheppard and his business partner Tash Price gave us a good run down of what you can achieve, regardless of your disability. Let’s start with Adam: at 38, is happily married to Christy. They have a beautiful son Fletcher, aged 4. He was introduced to Rotary via RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program for Enrichment) and RYTS (Rotary Youth Transition Seminar) which he attended in 1998. Incidentally, that is where he met his wife… [OK, I've heard some enthusiastic reports from RYTS attendees before, but that takes the cake! ☺ Ed.] Adam has been involved in racing wheelchairs himself, as well as coaching both able bodied and disabled athletes for some 13 years now. Tash is not only his business partner in InvincAble, but he is also her coach. Tash Price not only had to overcome her paraplegia and blindness, but in addition had the challenges of diabetes, gastric paralysis, severe chronic pain and arthritis. That didn’t stop her from taking up wheelchair racing. She owned her racing wheelchair for just six weeks when she took out the Bronze Medal in her first competitive Marathon (yes, it’s 42 Km as well!) in July 2018. OK, go on..! in October 2019 she took out Gold in the Auckland Marathon! Next target: representing Australia at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. I could go on, with heaps of inspirational anecdotes they recounted. But why not check out Adam and Tash’s PDF ‘Meet Team InvincAble’ in the Download Section on the Right. It’s a truly inspiring read and also has some great pictures! Needless to say, we are so stoked to have you both joining Surfers Sunrise Rotary! |
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This Wednesday 20th: Adam Sheppard and Tash Price |
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Rotaractors make up the numbers at Bunnings BBQ![]() ![]() |
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Join on-line - Rotary Network on National Day![]() You can join the event by registering on this link: |
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Ever heard about Rotary Action Groups?Now here I am, a reasonably dedicated and committed Rotarian with almost 34 years of membership under my belt, quietly browsing the January issue of Rotary International’s monthly magazine, now re-branded Rotary Magazine. (Go on, click on the link! It’s very well done, way better than the old fashioned layout of The Rotarian). I was never aware that Rotary Action Groups existed! From Addiction Prevention to Clubfoot [no Henrietta, nothing to do with clubs, nor with people who suffer from "foot in mouth" disease… Ed.], Food Plant Solutions, Hearing, Multiple Scleroris , just to name a few of the 25 groups all up. Well worth your while to browse. And you learn far more than if you hang around Facebook or Twitter… |
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January is Vocational Service MonthJanuary is designated by Rotary International as 'Vocational Service Month'. Last year, Richard Smith spent heaps of time and effort to organise our Excellence in Workmanship Award night. But COVID prevented us to actually run it. We still can't make a decision yet whether we can hold it this year. So, what else can we do to highlight Vocational Service in our club? Well, how about we have a brief 3 minute presentation of 'What's new?' in their profession? Any volunteers? But, on an all encompassing level, the old Rotary Vocational Service Objective is still as relevant in 2021 as it was 20, 50 or 100 years ago:
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Vale Dr Frank Mouser PHF![]() Our sincere condolences go to the Mouser Family. Today Monday 4th January, Charter Members Peter Morgan and your Editor attended a brief commemorative gathering at Alambie Gardens to celebrate the life of this proverbial Rotarian.
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Great Christmas Breakfast at Edgewater Restaurant |
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... and there are the LONG Italian Lunches... |
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This coming Wednesday: AGM and Planning Meeting![]() |
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Meet Sasha Kimber, our second RYLA nominee![]() Looking forward to meeting you soon at one of our meetings, Sasha!
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Farley S Tolpen – MediationLast Wednesday, Farley Tolpen presented on how to stay out of court. A lawyer for 36 years specialising in Mediation, his aim is to resolve a dispute amicably, rather than confrontationally. Why would Mediation work better? Well, for a start, it is faster than litigation, typically completed within 30 days. Therefore, it is less expensive – on average, about 9 hours of his time will sort it out. But most importantly, the outcome is agreed to by both parties, the conflict is resolved and thus there is a high chance that the relationship between the parties is retained and even improved. And all that contributes to you retaining your sanity. There are other benefits: Staying out of court, confidentiality is retained, the process is not intimidating, and your chances of an agreed resolution are around 90%. So how does it work? Initially, there are several serious telephone discussions, individually with both parties, so the Mediator can become totally familiar with each side’s position. All discussions are subject to confidentiality. The aim is to build rapport, to have a clear understanding of each side’s grievances. The Mediator will then arrange pre-mediation meetings, both private and jointly. The aim is to obtain an agreement to mediate. Goals of what each party tries to achieve are set. In addition to the knowledge of the law, a Mediator must master various techniques and skills, particularly in relation to active listening, being non-judgmental, empathetic. As an example, Farley mentioned the 1970’s Detective Show ‘Columbo’: “I don’t quite understand… can you explain that again?” So, instead of saying “See you in court!!”, perhaps think “Let’s call Farley”. Click on this link to go to his website. Photo: Farley accepts his "Speaker's Reward", a uniquely labelled bottle of red, from Gerald East. |
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Welcome to Surfers Sunrise, Adam and Tash!This morning, President Charles Thomasson inducted two very special new members into our club: Well, this is real special: while we have, for some 25 years, been involved with "Rough Terrain" wheelchairs for underprivileged children in developing countries (10,000 of them - see below!), this is actually the first time we have members who... USE a wheelchair themselves! Adam and Tash run a business named 'InvincAble Pty Ltd'. Well, the name says it all! We'll have more formal introductions later in the year or early next year, but let me spill some beans just a little bit: Tash Price won the 2019 Auckland Marathon (COVID prevented her from competing there this year) and is the 2020 Queensland State Champion in 100, 200 and 400 metres! And guess who is her trainer? ☺ Great to have you both in our club! Photo: Adam and Tash, with Chairman of the meeting Gerald East and President Charles Thomasson.
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Final Update: Mark Twyford's ride for Misión México![]() ![]() |
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Meet our RYLA candidate: KJ Jewson![]() Many of you already know Kristen "KJ" Jewson (she prefers to be called "KJ"). Together with her fellow Rotaract members, she is a regular at the Project Shed, working on the Vanuatu project and she has joined our meetings on Wednesday mornings a number of times. KJ will hold the Surfers Sunrise flag at the upcoming Rotary Youth Leadership Award camp at the end of January 2021. This is the introduction she wrote: I'm Kristen, better known to all as Kj. I'm 26, and am in my 7th semester studying Digital Media Production at the University of Applied Sciences in Bremerhaven, Germany. My days currently consist of Work, Uni (albeit at 2am), and Rotaract. I'm president of the Rotaract Club Nordwest in Germany, a new member of the Rotaract Club of Burleigh Heads, and am involved in helping the newest club in the district, the Rotaract Club Gold Coast Makers come to life. Through Rotaract I currently have the chance to work on an international project with the Rotary Club Surfers Sunrise to build a hospital annex for clinic on Pentacost Island, Vanuatu. Rotary has been a part of my life since I was 14, I've been to RYPEN, RYTS, Youth Exchange to Germany in 2012, and since then have become a member of Rotex and Rotaract. Due to unforseen circumstances (COVID) I am back in the country for the moment, and RYLA just seemed like the next step. As I'm almost finished Uni, and now need to make the decision as to where I want to work and live in the world; I find myself at a crossroads, and think RYLA could possibly give me some clarity for the future, so I can't wait to go! |
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This Wednesday 25th Nov: Farley S Tolpen
He will speak on the topic of "Mediation - How and Why it Works". Farley advised that he will "make it interactive, with humour and some stories". Looking forward to it! |
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We'll have another Bike Sale on 12th December![]() Saturday, 12th December Big Bike Sale Surfers Sunrise Project Shed Arundel Community Centre, off Napper Road Arundel 4214
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Order Rotary Christmas Cakes by Wednesday![]() Note, this is also a bit of a fundraiser for The Rotary Foundation: for every fruitcake or steamed pudding, a donation of $2.00 is made; $1.00 for the baked pudding. |
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Our newest members active at the ShedGood to see our newest members Natasha Price and Adam Sheppard join us on Saturday at the Project Shed. Picture shows them with the hyperactive Rotaractors from Burleigh Heads who come and help us with the Vanuatu project every week, and in the back row President Charles Thomasson, Al Sirovs, Angus Miller (is he really wearing his cap "Lleyton Hewitt" style?? C'mooon!!☺) and Wheelchair Trust Director Larry Murray. Oh, by the way, for those of you who don't know: both Adam and Tash ARE wheelchair bound. None better to appreciate what we do! ![]() |
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This Saturday 14 Nov: 10,000th wheelchair celebrations![]() Photo: Bryan Tuesley (centre) organised an artist to paint some historical pictures on it. With President Charles Thomasson (left) and Wheelchair Trust Director Larry Murray (right). More pictures in the Photo Album.
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This Wednesday 11/11/20: PDG Michael Irving - Climate Change![]() |
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Pimpama College new Wheelchair design![]() |
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Burleigh Rotaractors pick up Hospital beds for Vanuatu![]() Photo (by Dr Graham) shows (from left) Harold Busch (Broabeach RC + Rotaracters. Blake, Harrison, KJ, Matt and James. More photos in the Photo Album - see right hand side.
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Congratulations: Mario Fairlie gets his 7th PHF |
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Jo Winwood: LonelinessDownload the PDF in the Download section on the right and see the slide “The Shocking Truth”. Let me pick just one of the facts: according to a scientific report, published by the US National Library of Medicine (J Holt-Lundstad, Brigham Young University), Loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26%. Or the equivalent of smoking 26 cigarettes a day. The problem is acute world wide; in the UK, they have appointed a Minister for Loneliness. So how can we help? Well, engage with people whom you suspect of being lonely. Your neighbour might be in that category. An invitation to join you for a cuppa is a good start! Would you like to support financially? Feros Care will again run a Christmas Brunch for lonely people - see Download section - 'Be Someone for Someone - Corporate Support'. Jo’s presentation can be downloaded from the Download section – see right side. TPhoto: Jo with Chairman of the meeting, Mark Twyford |
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Sunrise Golf Day a huge success!![]() A big thank you goes to President Charles Thomasson and Treasurer Doug Lipp who were the principal organisers, to all the sponsors and competitors, as well as the superb turnout of our members - too many to list - who helped on the day. Well done all!
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Geoff Croad's Seaquester Quays raises $2,150![]() |
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Good to see some new faces at Surfers Sunrise!![]() |
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Golf Day 2020 tomorrow Monday!![]() Bookings are now open - click on this link: https://www.trybooking.com/BLJDK
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PDG Graham Jones: US Presidential Elections![]() A graph of US States’ results in 2016 (see Graham's PowerPoint slides in the Download Section) showed a sea of red (for Trump) of 304 Electoral College votes, against 227 for Clinton. “It was not even close” Graham outlined… “But have a look at the Popular Vote, and you see that Trump was 3 Million votes behind Clinton, yet Trump won the Elections.” Graham went on to explain the US system of House of Representatives and Senate, somewhat similar to Australia’s, with the former represented on the basis of population (435 members), whereas the Senate has just two Senators per state (100 members). So, for every House of Representatives and Senate seat, there is one Electoral College (EC) vote, plus 3 votes for the District of Columbia (Washington). Thus, in total there are 538 EC votes. Graham briefly went back to historical times of the first Presidential Election in 1789 when there were just 10 states, when George Washington won with 69 out of 138 EC votes. John Adams, who came second, became Vice President. (It’s not within the scope of this article to elaborate). Now to the crux of the matter: Where does the people’s vote come in? Well, in all but two states (Nebraska and Mayne), all the Electoral College votes go to the winner of the popular vote. Thus, for example, were Trump to win California by just one vote, all of the 55 EC votes of that state would go to Trump. To win the Presidency, the candidate thus needs to win a total of 270 (half + 1) of 538 EC votes. Votes are cast by Electors (delegates) on 14th December. The winner is formally declared on 6th January. “But what if no winner can be declared, due to disputes, legal wrangling?” was your Editor’s question. Well, in that case Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker of the US House of Reps will take over temporarily, and if she is not available, the next in line is Senator Chuck Grassley, aged 87… The meeting was recorded on Zoom. If you would like a link (members only), please let me know. Ed. |
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GC Business Expo a success despite COVIDPhoto (from left): John Chirio, Larry Murray and PDG Darrell Brown blinking into the sun on Thursday morning at the "Gate".
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This coming Wednesday: PDG Graham Jones - US Elections![]() Usual location, at the Surfers Paradise SLSC upstairs. Grab your breakfast downstairs and take it up for some fellowship before the meeting starts at 07:30 sharp. |
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Last week’s Guest Speaker: DG Andy Rajapakse
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Welcome to our newest member, Ramez Salib(Photo, from left: President Charles Thomasson, Ramez Salib, DG Andy Rajapakse).
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Burleigh Heads Rotaractors helping with Vanuatu project |
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Burleigh Heads Rotaractors help with Vanuatu project |
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VIP visit to the Project Shed |
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Jade McMahon is this year's Lutzy Award winner![]() Some of the previous winners, Jessica Webber and Lucy Thorburn, went on to participate in our District's Youth programs and, of course, you may be aware that Lucy also spent a year in the USA as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student. Photo (from left): Immediate Surfers Sunrise Past President Mario Fairlie (sponsor), David Orchard, Jade McMahon, SLSC President Trevor Hendy, Jan Lutz, Justin Benney from Advent Security (sponsor), Surfers Sunrise President Charles Thomasson, Andy Bell. Some more photos in the Photo Album section. |
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This coming Wednesday 7th Oct: District Governor's visit![]() |
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Three On-Line Zoom meetings this week re Polio Plus Train![]() Our District and your club have the opportunity to participate in an exciting initiative that has 5 objectives:
The Zoom meetings will be held at 6pm on each of Monday 28 September, Tuesday 29 September and Thursday 1 October. Zoom meeting details for all 3 are as follows: Topic: Train Ride to End Polio Time: Sep 28, 2020 06:00 PM Brisbane Sep 29, 2020 06:00 PM Oct 1, 2020 06:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting The meeting has a passcode. To obtain it, simply reply to this bulletin or contact the Bulletin Editor Franz Huber. (A separate invitation has been sent by direct email to all members). |
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Wheelchairs have arrived in PNG and Solomon Islands![]() "Good day to you all good Rotarians in Rotary club of Surfers Sunrise in Qld, Australia. I am a retired Reverend, Hoge with my wife Vagahu Rabura of the Rotary Club of Port Moresby in Papua New. We have great interest to volunteer in the Wheelchair Trust project in the your club... I am 63 yrs old and my wife 58 yrs old.... We also do other social work like volunteering in the Prisoners Bible teaching, and are facilitators in HIV AIDS, TB, GBV, etc trainings. But, our interest is in volunteering in the Wheelchair project.. Can we have a chat re the above request and please show me the correct form of communication... Please see some of the wheelchair donations pictures, we did on behalf of Rotary club Port Moresby... within Port Moresby and outside... There is great need for wheelchairs for all ages, we want thank your club again for such support.... Many thanks Rev Hoge and Vagahu Rabura. moringapng123@gmail.com Shortly after, Col Laurenson forwarded a couple of photos from Honiara, Solomon Islands. They, as well as a lot more from PNG - see our Photo Album Section, together with a couple of photos sent from Honiara, Solomon Islands. Fellows, give yourself a pat on the back!
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This Wednesday: Lutzy Award presentation(Picture shows last year's winner, Jazmin Zimmerman) |
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Meet our Volunteers: John BoucherAnd just to prove that he was not just all about work: at the time there were just 3 single (Caucasian) women on the island. One of them, a young lady named Vana, was the manager’s stenographer. Anyway… they married… the wedding was organised by the company, right there in Nauru! [Knowing John’s commitment to his work, it is not known whether he took a honeymoon holiday or not… Ed. 😊]. One of their children was born on Nauru, the other in Melbourne. Among other duties, Vana was in charge of maintaining the Land Schedule, what appears to be somewhat similar to our Titles Registry Office. Except that on Nauru a piece of land can have as many as 100 male owners. So the register is in the name of the women. There is a complete separate story in there! Comfortably retired now, other than volunteering at our Project Shed, John enjoys reading good novels (Jeffrey Archer, Wilbur Smith, Lee Childs etc), listening to traditional Jazz and Rock 'n' Roll and studying World War 2 History. Ah, did I mention that, for 3 years in his youth, he also was a Cadet Midshipman? And heavily involved with the Sea Scouts movement? |
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Dr Serge Macanovic: Age is just a number...Opening with a quote by Irish novelist Cecelia Ahern that “Age is just a number, not a state of mind or a reason for any type of particular behaviour”, he emphatically pointed out a major link between health of your body and health of your mouth. Yes… did you listen to your mother? Gum disease doesn’t just give you bad breath and causes tooth decay. It massively increases the risk of |
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Vale John Ellemor, PHF![]() John, a consumate inventor and industrial designer, joined Surfers Sunrise Rotary in 1992 after "retiring" to the Gold Coast from a very successful business career in Victoria. Around that time he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship. He is best remembered for his continued active participation in all our projects and was instrumental in organising the inaugural Education Expo on the Gold Coast in the early nineties. He was also recognised as one of the very few Rotarians worldwide who could boast 100% Attendance over a period of 50 years! This would have involved hundreds of 'Make-up' visits to various clubs throughout the world. Our condolences go out to his family. |
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New COVID Safe Plan for Project Shed![]()
The plan is available for download from the Download section on the right. |
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We don't need no education...'We don't need no education We don't need no thought control No dark sarcasm in the classroom Teachers leave them kids alone.' Roger Waters, Pink Floyd – The Wall (1979) Two of my most favourite composers of classical music, Roger Waters and David Gilmour released this album over 40 years ago. [Classical? Yes, Henrietta, of course I’m serious! - - OK, let’s compromise: ‘modern classical’. Crikey! Must be getting old..!] September is Rotary International’s ‘Basic Education and Literacy Month’. You now have an image in your mind, don’t you? And I bet that that image is something like a “developing country” classroom full of highly attentive, smiling kids with perfect teeth, sitting on the floor, or at best on old school benches and an early 20th Century style blackboard (possibly donated by Rotary). Correct? Last week, Vandy S Kamara demonstrated to us that just one man with serious determination can make a massive difference (see report above). Now, I don’t for a moment suggest that those Rotary programs, which supply material, financial support and sometimes human resources, are not worthwhile. Are they ever! There is only one way to improve the lives of the impoverished people regardless of where they live and that’s Education. Starting with basic literacy and numeracy, it is indeed the only way. With Rotary’s concept of having a partner at the recipient’s end, our efforts also have a much higher chance of success. This generally is the policy of The Rotary Foundation, as well as – closer to home – the rule of Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS). But what about right here? the largest national peak body for adult and community education, Adult Learning Australia, published an OECD survey that found some 44% of adult Australians “lack the literacy skills required in everyday life. Of these, 1 in 7 (14% !!) have literacy levels which are so low they struggle with everyday tasks.” With numeracy skills, it is even worse. Is it because we are not spending enough of our taxes on Education? Personally, I don’t really think so. It goes much deeper than that. [Disclaimer: This is the author’s personal view and may not represent that of Rotary. Ed.] It is not Rotary’s task to set Education Policy. But perhaps we could become involved in old fashioned Community Service. Remember? "In the olden days", Community Service used to be a Club Directorship all by itself. And perhaps we could arrange (or cooperate with) local adult learning projects, to the benefit of (now) adults who recognise the errors of their younger days? |
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Last Wednesday's Guest Speaker: Vandy S Kamara![]() Primarily it was about his charity, the Sonjor Community School which he founded in 2012. Its Mission Statement is 'To provide education and other related services for girls, that will lead to empowerment and sustainable livelyhood'. Another major underlying objective: 'To delay the prevailing early child marriages |
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A big trailer load of bicycle tyres go to recycling |
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This Wednesday 2nd Sept: Vandy S Kamara
Vandy S Kamara came to Australia 10 years ago from his native country, the civil war torn Sierra Leone on the west coast of Africa. He lived a great part of his life in 'Internally Displaced Peoples' camps [what a euphemism! Ed.] and various refugee camps. This gave him a strong belief in humanity and education. Vandy started his own Foundation, largely financed from his own savings. It started with providing water points for communities, funding vaccination for children and later a community school, which now has an enrolment of some 380 pupils. Vandy currently works with Wesley Mission Queensland, supporting homeless people, young people and their families in the Logan to Ipswich region. |
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Welcome to Surfers Sunrise, Johnny Bueti! |
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The GOYA principleForgive me if I mentioned this before: Maintaining and expanding our membership is the responsibility of every member, not just the committee. But perhaps we should look at some reasons why it is perceived that, in today’s world, there is less interest in joining a Service Club such as Rotary. Then, think about how we are going to address these reasons. Some may be real, but most are imagined.
So, how are you going to address this? This Wednesday, we'll "formally" meet two new members who transferred from Burleigh Heads club to be closer to their place of work. Whilst that in itself is significant, what is even more interesting is that of these two members are below 40! That much for “today’s young people… etc etc”! Further, our club's recent decision to cater for 'Corporate Membership' certainly can assist! But you need to start. Several decades ago, in a sales training manual, I came across the expression of the 'GOYA principle'. Many of you know what the acronym stands for. OK, if you don't, feel free to ask me! It's still as relevant today as it always was.
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Flat out at first COVID period Sausage Sizzle![]() Special appreciation to Bunnings for their professional planning of this fundraising opportunity to ensure we conform to COVID laws and regulations, as well as for providing all the equipment and marquees and one of their staff for the entire day to assist us with compliance. Community organisations need to raise funds to enable them to operate. A sincere thank you!
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This Wednesday 12th August: Social meetingAlso, we need a few more people at this Saturday's Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. Contact Angus Miller or Geoff Croad to find out which slots are still open.
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Good roll-up on Saturday at the Project Shed![]() |
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If you throw enough spaghetti against a wall...“So, where are you going with this??” I hear you ask, “it’s normal to have a steep reduction in membership at the end of the Rotary year!” Normal? Sure, some of the 200 we lost may have left because they moved away. Some were called “to higher service”. But, the bulk of them decided that Rotary simply wasn’t “their thing”, not worth their time, effort and expense. In business, losing a major account rings alarm bells. And unless they went bust, sold out or died, most likely it’s because they found your opposition more attractive. Your responsibility really. So what do you do? You go out to look for |
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John Paul Langbroek presents at Surfers Sunrise![]() Recently, JP indeed was active in one of our club’s project, the ‘Sleeping Sanctuary’ (POD), where he met with Immediate Past President Mario Fairlie, Councillor Darren Taylor and others to address the important problem of homelessness on the Gold Coast. “This is not an easy problem to address”, he elaborated, “some people do not wish to be in permanent accommodation”. Of course, it’s not just |
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This Saturday 8th August: Big job at the ShedShould the members feel able to avail themselves for this task we recommend the following precautions should be followed to minimise the possibility of personal injury and/ or embarrassment.
The work should only take 2 or 3 hours and will include light refreshments and interesting conversation. |
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Chris Thurtell gets special pin created by the YE Studentsby PDG Darrell Brown - Current District 9640 Youth Program Chair) Over the time of his tenure he transformed the Youth Exchange Program with his caring attitude & dedication. Chris retired from the District Chair position last December and when his intended replacement was unable to fill his shoes, I was asked to take over the role until the end of the Rotary year. Thank goodness for Chris’s sense of responsibility. When I rang Chris for a briefing he said that he would stay in the role as it would take too long & be too difficult to become acquainted with the role for such a short time. Then COVID-19 struck. YEP became a minefield of problems dealing with countries closing down programs, arranging a safe environment for students & the logistical nightmare of getting students home. Chris deserves a medal and he got one. He was awarded his first Paul Harris Fellow at the District Changeover a week ago in recognition for what he has achieved & the tumultuous time he has been through. The unfortunate aspect of all of this is that Chris has resigned from Rotary. I understand his feelings. His role was such an intense commitment to the Youth of our District that he needs a break from Rotary. He is exhausted. He hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to the fold in a year’s time but he needs to concentrate on his own family, his new job & to regain equilibrium. |
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$28,000 added to Malaria Vaccine Project fundPDG Graham Jones, who is the chairman of the Malaria Vaccine Project, expressed his delight in a recent letter to (now) Past DG Harry & Shauna Bolton. The project, which also attracted a grant of $500,000 from the Federal Government, is now in its 'Phase 1 - clinical trials in a non-endemic country' - yes! Australia. Read more about it on their website. By the way: Did you know that Dr Stanisic was sponsored by Rotary to attend the National Youth Science Forum, to which our recent guest Briana Dorrough (see bulletin of 29/07/20) also aspires to. Yes, Rotary sponsoring Youth works!
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Ray Krebs, NBNCo: Getting the best out of your NBNRay outlined the various ways to connect (fixed line, WiFi, Mobile Internet - e.g. a “dongle”). Did you know that in Australia the average household consumes about 258 GB of data per month? Viewing habits have changed – real time video streaming directly to your Smart TV now dominates as the No 1 data consumption. And it doesn’t look like it’s going to slow down anytime soon: between 2012 and 2019 consumption has increased by 820%! Anything else you can connect? Yes, you can have Smart Power Points, Smart Light Globes, Smart Fridges, Security Cameras, Watering Systems, temperature controlled toilet seats which also will |
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The 10,000th Wheelchair loaded for despatch![]() |
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Qld Correctional Services Wheelchair Video![]() By the way: this most precious wheelchair (picture right) was painted by one of their inmates. No, it's not for sale! ☺
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Testing the new BBQ at the Project Shed![]() |
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President Charles Thomasson: My vision for 2020-21![]() But the major segments certainly bear mentioning specifically:
So, download the PowerPoint and look at the details. Be assured, there won't be any boredom for our members, certainly no such thing as "I don't have anything to do!". In other words: Be involved! |
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RI Honolulu Convention: hardly anyone was there... ☺![]() Enter ‘Post Conference Streaming’. The whole lot is up on Youtube. You can watch the whole lot, or just selective segments. Even better: not meaning to be derogatory, but you can fast forward or skip what I (in streamed business seminars) used to call ‘Corporate Gumph’… Even better: if a speaker speaks (in your view) too slowly, you can run the video at 1.5 speed or even double speed. How good is that! Click here to access the opening session on Saturday 20th June. Whatever you do, don’t fast forward past the contribution of the Australian Pop Opera Quartet ‘Aria’, dedicating a Rotary version of the popular song The Prayer (think of Andrea Bocelli with Céline Dion) starting at 0:59:00. Now, just in case it sounds somewhat weird: you probably need to set playing speed back to 'Normal'... ☺ |
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Pimpama Fix-ed College designs wheelchair improvements![]() ![]() Plenty more photos in the Photo Album on the right! |
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Support Neil Thurlow's ride for MSOur indefatigable printer extraordinaire, Neil Thurlow, is cycling 400 Km in lieu of the usual 'Brissie to the Bay' event, which due to COVID had to be cancelled. This is a fundraiser in support of MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Click here to go directly to his website, or click on the image, or download the full brochure from the Download Section on the right. Neil will organise something similar to raise funds for our various Rotary projects. Stay tuned!
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Broadbeach Rotarians help with X-Ray Unit for Vanuatu![]() |
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Peter Morgan: Man behind the Badge
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Guess what's on on 4th July? Guess who is...It was going to happen in April, but COVID came in-between. Angus Miller is again organising a "Guess who is coming to Dinner?" event. This is a great social evening with an air of mystery as neither the guests nor hosts know who is attending, respectively who will host. Gus advises that he has the volunteer hosts already set up, but would like a "reserve host", just in case we get more people participating than we expect. Regardless of whether you are hosting or not, he will need final numbers of attendees so we can make sure that we have enough hosts. Note: it is an 'impromptu, minimal fuss' affair: if you are hosting and you are an accomplished chef and want to show it off: by all means, slave over a hot stove and cook a five course dinner! At the other end of the scale, simply have a bar-be-que or some take-away pizza. Or anything in-between! The principal purpose is to have a great night!
![]() For those who have not attended one of these dinners before: Firstly, you will all gather at a particular address (will remain secret until we get closer to the event) for a drink & nibble. The hosts' addresses for the evening will then be allocated, who will then make their way to that address for the dinner. Each host will have nominated the number of guests they would like, but they will not know who will come to dinner, nor will the guests know who else will be at that given address. The food is provided by the hosts, for which the guests will contribute $15 per person and provide their own drinks [and perhaps have a spare bottle for the hosts too..! Ed] . The menu is entirely at the whim of the host, anything from caviar to take-away Chinese. Angus needs to know who will be participating by this Wednesday 24th June. Please register your interest directly with him via email agjpmiller@gmail.com, advising how many people will participate and whether you can be a "Reserve Host". |
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Presentation of Certificates of AppreciationLast Saturday morning, President Mario Fairlie presented a number of Certificates of Appreciation to people who were instrumental in providing their goods and services to the Project Shed. Here are some: ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Other certificates awaiting to be presented are for AB Crane Hire and Sinclair Containers.
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New Wheelchair Fundraising Poster |
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Project Shed reorganisation on full steam![]() The Trustees of the Wheelchair Trust and President Mario met last Thursday. Did you know that the Surfers Sunrise Wheelchair Project is on target to ship our 10,000 Wheelchair in the 100th Year of Rotary in Australia? A wonderful achievement by all those involved. As such, the main focus of the meeting was to discuss the distribution of our current stock of over 400 manufactured wheelchairs and how to work with other Rotary Clubs to best get them to those most in need - we look forward to updating the Club soon. We also look forward to Wheelchairs being manufactured from ‘The Shed’ for many years to come.
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Angie Bell - MP for MoncrieffInterestingly, Angie was a Rotary Exchange Student to Denmark in 1986. “This will tell you how old I am” she quipped [we know that anyway; your Bio is plastered all over the Federal Parliament’s website! ☺ Ed]. “Rotary Exchange changed my life” Angie enthused, “even though I haven’t been able to get a lot of use out of my Danish skills”. Angie outlined the importance of foreign aid. Bangladesh (where in the past we have sent some wheelchairs to) has some 900,000 Rohingya refugees who walked across the border from Myanmar. The Australian Government sponsored ‘Safe the Children’. “Amazing what can be done with quite a small amount of money” Angie said, “I think we are talking about approximately $160 Million for this humanitarian crisis. To put it into perspective: this is only about 1.7 Km of Light Rail… ” [☺ Ed.] She mentioned that another reason why we spend that money is that that region is quite important to Australia’s national security (Angie is on the Defence and Veteran Affairs Backbench Committee and also has defence history in her family). In relation to Covid-19: In the early stages, Angie put together a ‘Community Cabinet’, consisting of leaders of various community and multi-cultural groups on the central Gold Coast. Among others, District Governor Elect Andy Rajapakse is one of the members. Angie emphasised how very important it is that everyone is downloading the Covid Safe App to our smartphones. Angie outlined in detail why it is important. In essence: should somebody become infected, other people who might have been in contact with that person can be traced. There is little doubt as to where Angie stands when it comes to getting the Gold Coast’s economy back on its feet: she forcefully called for the Queensland border to be re-opened. Alas, so far all the meetings she and her fellow “movers and shakers” on the Gold Coast have had with the representatives of the Queensland State Government seem to have fallen on deaf ears. Naturally, there would be so much else to elaborate on and to discuss. It is quite uncommon in our club that a speaker is allowed to substantially go over the allotted time, but with Angie we simply lost track of time! You can find out lots more on her website https://AngieBell.com.au – simply click on the Help menu. Angie’s presentation has been recorded on Zoom. A link was sent out to all members – if you require a link, please email the Webmaster. To sum it up: I’m sure I speak for all members when I state that we all much enjoyed her refreshingly open and uncomplicated manner of keeping us up to date on what happens in Canberra and how she is fighting for the betterment of the Gold Coast. By the way: Did you know that for quite some time, she was a professional Musician? Next time, we much hope that circumstances will allow us to insist that she brings her Saxophone along! |
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Containers for Change: Our AccountsIn view of the Wheelchair Trust Deed's fairly strict limitations (money donated can only be spent on materials for wheelchairs and nothing else, not even for the shipment to their destination), we have registered an alternative account for Containers for Change. If you deposit your empties directly, and wish to donate the proceeds to the Surfers Sunrise Rotary Club - General Account, please use this account code: C10262571 (The account for the Wheelchair Trust is also still active: use C10199443 instead). ![]() |
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Working bee at the Project Shed![]() (Photo by Al Sirovs - maintaining Social Distance: everyone would if the other guy wields an angle grinder...! ☺)
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Roof Trusses for Vanuatu project arrivePhoto (by Geoff Croad) shows how things are done in modern times, with their lifting crane built onto the truck. How good is modern technology!
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Maggie Twyford: Volunteering with Misión MéxicoJust why would one choose Misión México? “They encourage long term volunteering and they are inexpensive compared to others (3000 Pesos, or about A$300) over 5 months, which includes accommodation and meals” Maggie explained. Further, the organisation doesn’t participate in the problematic industry of “Voluntourism”. Voluntourism? A modern term for ‘normalising’ access |
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Additional 40' container arrives at the Project Shed![]() |
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So, whom would you consider to be the greatest?On the weekend, the passing away of Little Richard made the news on just about all channels. ("Little Who??" I hear the younger ones among you yell out…) Well, let me tell you: he was one of the greatest! OK, I might be betraying my age now, but just to put you straight: I don’t just listen to 50’s Rock ‘n’ Roll, I was a fan of Pink Floyd long before the Dark Side of the Moon! Groan. Yup, another one from the Boomer period... Oh, well, still betraying my age then, I guess… OK then, so whom do you think is the greatest entertainer of the last 100 years? I would imagine your responses to be highly predictable and relative to your age: Satchmo, Bing Crosby, Sinatra. JOK, Kamal, Barnsie, Farnham, Olivia, Kylie, Acca Dacca. Delta. Justin Bieber. SAINt Jhn … What the heck has all this got to do with Rotary? Well, let me stretch your brain: excluding our founder Paul Harris and Arch Klump (the founder of The Rotary Foundation), whom would you consider the greatest Rotarian of the last 100 years? ---??--- Having a blank? But surely, in an organisation that covers over 200 countries and exceeds 1.2 million members, there must be somebody who pops up, who stands several heads taller than the rest? Come on, quick! We are an organisation that can organise the immunization of over 1 billion children and is within a whisker of reaching its target of eradicating Polio world wide. Surely we must have some all-time icons that are household names for everyone on the planet? Yes, of course there would be. Hundreds and thousands of them. It’s just that they are not there for their own glory. There is no big media, no Spin department, no Grammy or Aria Awards. Is it relevant of whether a Rotarian is a fan of Opera, old crooners, Metallica, Muse or Funk? Not at all. But, to paraphrase Past Rotary International President Sir Clem Renouf: if you are a Rotarian, you have an organisation behind you that gives you, an ordinary person, the opportunity to do more with your life than you ever dreamed possible. |
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IMHO U R ovreacting
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Last Wednesday: PDG Ross Smith - Frank Lloyd Wright ArchitecturePDG Ross Smith, whose "real" career spans roughly 50 years of teaching and, as principal, managing High Schools, lists Architecture as one of his special interests. Ross' On-Line presentation last Wednesday revealed a deep love of this artistic profession. He picked one of the world's most famous Architects, Frank Lloyd Wright, as his subject. To give you an idea how famous: The UNESCO World Heritage last year added 7 buildings to its list. All of them were designed by him. "Architecture equals Form and Function, in our living and working lives" he is quoted as saying. 'Form' can be associated with 'Memorial', 'Function' as in 'Factory'. Ross recalled his assessment of the High School building, when he commenced work as Principal; it was anything but functional! ![]() Over the next 20 minutes, Ross introduced us to a number of Wright's extraordinary designs. Of the commercial buildings, the most outstanding one would be the Guggenheim Museum On New York's 5th Avenue. It is not just round, it is a spiral, wider at the top than at the bottom! (see photo right of Ross on the inside) Click here for a 'walk-through'. And, keep in mind, this was designed and built a long time before Computer Aided Design (CAD); all done by slide rule and log tables. His private residence designs would be topped by 'Fallingwater', originally designed as... a holiday retreat! It is - literally - built over a waterfall. No garage, but 6 car ports... In total, Wright designed over 500 buildings. Some designs are just a little bit unusual. For example, a grand piano was built into a wall where on the other side it hangs out above a hallway. Some buildings, such as the Hollihock House on Sunset Boulevard, on the one hand were outrageously expensive to build, yet have never been lived in! Well, what can I say! This came from left field. I knew that Ross was a highly accomplished and respected High School Principal. But also very well read in Architecture? The depth, the knowledge of our fellow Rotarians never cease to amaze me.
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Containers for Cash: are you in it?Some time ago, our "Minister for Everything" Geoff Croad has advised that he set up an account with 'Containers for Cash', which has so far has raised well over $1,100 for our Project Shed (Surfers Sunrise Wheelchairs Trust). Particularly now, when we cannot have fundraising events such as a Bunnings sausage sizzle, this would greatly help. So, why not collect the empties for us as well? Our ID / Registration Code is So, keep your soft drink bottles, stubby bottles, aluminium cans, milk cartons etc. As a general rule, most drink containers between 150ml and 3L can be returned for a refund under your state’s container deposit scheme. Containers should be empty, unbroken, lid-free and display a 10-cent refund marking on the label. Something like this,
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Be Someone for Someone CampaignAt last week's meeting, Past President Jo Winwood (now a member of RC of Byron Bay), brought one of her organisation's major projects to our attention. Appropriately named '1000 notes of friendship', the project aims to reduce loneliness, particularly for people who are in retirement and nursing homes. Write (best hand write) a note, a postcard or a letter to a 'mystery person' and post it (yes, by old fashioned snail mail) to Jo. This is to safeguard privacy. Below is Jo's summary. There is also a PDF in our Download Section (on the right) and their website, click here. This will also be discussed in more details in the upcoming meeting this coming Wednesday. Help 1,000 of our most vulnerable seniors by making them feel less alone with a simple note of well wishes / friendship. Be Someone for Someone is Aged Care provider, Feros Care’s initiative to tackle loneliness– and never has there been a greater need for our help. Right now, millions of vulnerable seniors in Australia are in self-isolation, with no visitors and no chance of leaving their home. We know that loneliness leads to anxiety, depression, chronic disease and worse. We want them to know that they matter, and we are thinking of them. What you can do Write a letter/note or card - leave the name section blank ( the part where you normally write "Dear" and Jo will personalise them for you. Post the note to 1,000 Notes of Friendship Campaign The team at Be Someone For Someone will take care of the rest PS: Include your address if you would like to encourage a response. Now, is that a project worth supporting or not? |
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Snippets of last week's meeting 150420On conclusion of our Guest Speaker, Dr Trent Lipp's presentation , President Mario invited Jo Winwood to talk about one of her projects of combating loneliness and isolation. This started well before COVID and Jo described it as 'a growing epidemic'. Do you know that it is estimated that 1 in 4 adults suffer loneliness? This then has massive consequences in both mental and physical health. Please see separate article in this bulletin on Jo's Project, which she has asked our club to become involved with. Overall, her project goes much further, but specifically, where Jo would like us to be involved in is for us to write to those people. She named it 'A Thousand Notes of Friendship' - click on this link to go to their website. There is also a PDF on our Download Section - see right side. (Note: this coming Wednesday's meeting, 22/04/2020, is dedicated to discuss this, among other topics). Jo also elaborated on her other project relating to 'Community Friendly Benches'. President Mario indicated that our club is very happy to be involved in this. One aspect of such a project is 'Sustainablity', e.g. that the facility is not only properly maintained, but that it is not ending up as a canvas for graffity or even an overnight sleeping bench. Wheelchair Trust Chairman Larry Murray confirmed that the volunteers are indeed able to build them, however, that finance needs to come from external sources. Jo confirmed that funding would be coming from her sources (Government as well as philanthropists). Doug Lipp re-enforced Dr Trent Lipp's message that COVID vigilance is all important: Despite meticulously following precautions, one of his friends caught it, most likely from a neighbor who is an airline stewart. So, don't lower your defences! |
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National Youth Science Forum: looking for candidatesFor full details, (District Website) click on this link - for the NYSF website click here: https://www.nysf.edu.au/ Please contact Youth Services Director Darrell Brown directly if you know of a suitable candidate. |
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Rotary volunteers make full face masks for health workers![]() |
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Weekly fee, so we can meet the club's obligationsThe COVID-19 situation has stopped any fund raising activities. Therefore, as mentioned in President Mario's message, a fee of $10.00 per week per member ($130.00 per quarter) is levied to ensure our club can meet its obligations. $5.00 of this goes towards the compulsory contributions to Rotary International, the District and for the Rotary Down Under magazine. We are also committed to contribute $100.00 per member per annum to The Rotary Foundation. The other $5.00 goes towards us purchasing Christmas presents for the underprivileged children, which we donate via St John's Crisis Centre. To lighten the workload of our Treasurer, please do a direct deposit of $130.00 for this quarter (April - June 2020), directly into the club's bank account: Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise Inc BSB: 484-799 A/c: 047306431 Please ensure you put your name into the reference field. Thank you.
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Project Shed definitely remains closed for nowThere seems to be some ambiguity, so let us make this totally clear: we much regret it, but the Project Shed needs to remain closed until the Government lifts the restrictions. We'll of course keep you all posted. Also, please feel free to contact us by phone or email if we can provide you with assistance, or if you simply would like to have a good ol' chinwag! ☺ |
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Our inaugural On-Line meeting keeps us in touchPresident Mario Fairlie welcomed all. He briefly elaborated on the Vanuatu X-Ray building:
Treasurer Doug Lipp presented the account balances of the General and Wheelchairs accounts. He also confirmed that a firm assessment has been done in relation to insurance cover at the Project Shed, both for the buildings as well as its contents. Youth Services Director Darrell Brown advised that, in essence, all Youth Programs in the district had been suspended indefinitely, including the upcoming RYLA camp (we had a candidate lined up for it). Spare a thought for our beleaguered District Chairman for International Youth Exchange, Chris Thurtell: Not only do our currently residing Overseas students want to come back early, the Japanese students who are with us at present (including our Ayana) don't want to return for the time being! On a much more pleasant note: District Treasurer Mark Twyford advised that he has become a Grandfather! Baby Charlotte May Rix and mum are all well. Congratulations! (Picture left) Keeping up the club's finances: In "normal" times, we have a contribution of $10.00 per person, per meeting, plus any fines etc. Since, due to the general lock-down and social distancing rules, we are unable to conduct any fundraising events, not even the Bunnings Sausage Sizzles. Yet, we still have our obligations, including our obligation to contribute $100 per annum / per member to The Rotary Foundation. Therefore, it was decided that for each member, for each week's meeting, a contribution of $15.00 will be raised. This is made up of $10.00 being the usual meeting fee, plus $5.00 to contribute to a monster raffle, to be drawn at a time to be advised. President Mario indicated that he, for one, will donate a major prize towards this (do I feel a bottle of Grange Hermitage coming up??) You can pay directly into the club's bank account - look out for an email in your Inbox. The meeting concluded at 08:05 am due to the 40 minute limit for the free of charge Zoom subscription. We have now subscribed to the Pro version, which provides for unlimited time of up to 24 hours per meeting. |
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Donated Trusses for Vanuatu ready to go![]() |
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This Wednesday: our first On-Line meeting!So, what could one possibly do On-Line? Well, almost everything, except you can't shake hands, pat each other on the back (literally, but you can do so figuratively) and you'll have to prepare your own breakfast. President Mario will address the meeting, the Directors can report, even the Sergeant can have a session (we'll trust you to hold on to your fine until we have our first meeting!) - a record will be kept... And once we are comfortable with it, there is no reason why we can't have a guest speaker. With Zoom, the speaker's screen can be shared, and thus any PowerPoint presentation or 'White Board' can be displayed. Let's work on this together and make it happen. Please call Franz if you require assistance. Well, another 'First' for Surfers Sunrise Rotary! So, come on! It's not difficult. Join us!
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Last Sunday the Gold Coast Ramble was on![]() ![]() |
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A load of discarded bicycles - mothballed... |
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Confirmed: Gold Coast Ramble is still on!Just received confirmation from the chief organiser, David Baguley: the Gold Coast Ramble this coming Sunday is still on. They have modified it that, in essence, competitors and spectators won't be any more exposed to COVID-19 than if they simply went for a stroll. There are no check point volunteers. Therefore, would it be fair if I asked you to join me and support the two teams associated with our club? All donations go to major charities or Last year's winner, headed by our former member Rosie Rocco (picture right) Regrettably, this year Simon Brook is not competing at the Ramble; he is fielding a team at the Maximum Adventure Race on the Sunshine Coast which happens on the same weekend. |
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All club meetings and events suspendedAs reported in last week's bulletin, the club's board has decided to suspend all club activities, including the activities at the Project Shed, for 28 days due to COVID-19. This decision very shortly afterwards was affirmed by a directive from Rotary International. This is the resolution: Motion to suspend Club activities because of the COVID-19 virus pandemic Resolved that: Effective immediately the Club suspend for a period of 28 days all activities including but not limited to: a. the Project Shed; b. formal Club meetings; c. the Excellence in Workmanship Awards ceremony; d. the Gold Coast Ramble 2020. Explanatory Note Because of the uncertainty surrounding the spread of the COVID-19 virus, government recommendations regarding social isolation to assist in limiting its spread and the fact many of the Club’s members and Shed volunteers fall within the cohort of those most at risk in the event of infection, the Board believes that in discharge of the duty of care owed to members and volunteers that Club activities should be suspended for 28 days. |
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Covid-19 pandemic forces cancellation of District ConferenceDistrict Governor Harry Bolton and his committee have advised that this year's District Conference in Tenterfield had to be cancelled. In his message to all members, DG Harry explained the principal reasons for making this difficult decision. Here are the most important ones:
The committee is currently working on organising to refund monies pre-paid to registrants. As an alternative, a donation to Shauna Bolton's "DG Partner's Project", the Malaria Vaccination Project of Griffith University, of which Rotary is a major partner. Stay tuned! |
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Bookings for the Excellence of Workmanship Awards close SundayVocational Services chief Richard Smith is again organizing the annual Excellence in Workmanship Awards. Social dinner night of course, so make sure your partners know about it too, and all friends and guests are welcome. Eight candidates have been selected and thus nominations are now closed. Where? Quality Inn (Lone Star Tavern), 97 Markeri St, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218 When? Wednesday 18th March 2020, 06:00 pm for 6:30 start Cost: $35.00 per person. |
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Our Associate Members: meet Terry Donovan![]() In his working life, Terry was a Sales Engineer, traveling to mining sites. He lives in Carrara with his wife Nook (yes, correct spelling!). These days, besides contributing to our efforts at the Project Shed (he is a master at restoring bicycles that can be resold), his ‘Theme of Life’ is simply to be happy: being with his wife, the family and grandchildren (grandson Nathan was named after his heart donor), playing golf, listening to Country and Western music, reading (Lee Childs is one of his favorite authors) and admiring visual art, such as his granddaughter Abbie’s paintings… And, only sometimes, indulging in his biggest vice: eating the “wrong” food. So, at 79 years of age, does he still have stuff on his bucket list? “Yes!”, Terry replied, “Getting the OBE!” Getting the Order of the British Empire? “No, getting over bloody eighthy…!” (Photo and interview by Al Sirovs) |
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Be part of the Gold Coast Ramble!In two weeks, on 22nd March 2020 the 3rd Gold Coast Ramble will be on. This year it will start from Macintosh Island Park. Organiser David Baguley (Rotary Club of Gold Coast) is looking for more teams, as well as volunteers to help on the day. There are some fabulous prizes on offer!
![]() Participants can choose to support any of 7 charities: Australian Anti Ice Campaign, Baby Give Back, Bravehearts, The Butterfly Foundation, Orange Sky Laundry, The Prostate Foundation of Australia and the Salvation Army. Full details, and to register, please visit the website: www.goldcoastramble.org.au. (Photo: last year's winners, Rosie Rocco and her team)
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District Conference starts in 3 weeks![]() Go to the Conference Website http://www.rotary9640conference.org.au and check out what's happening. There you find the program, a brief summary of all the Keynote Speakers, and of course you can register. But of course, one of the big attractions of attending a conference is always the deep feeling of Rotary Fellowship. Being in the country, formalities will be kept to a minimum. You have an opportunity to meet, eat and drink with other Rotarians and their partners from other places in the District, you'll meet overseas people, Exchange Students. But I know, you are all quite shy... Not to worry! So far, our club has 9 people registered, so if worse comes to worse, you can always talk to one of us... ☺ |
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Ayana Sadaka, our YE Student from Japan![]() I never cease to be amazed at the relative ease our Youth Exchange students, particularly from Japan, manage to learn our language and alphabet in a few short months. Today, Ayana gave us a brief insight into her family (we will hopefully meet them when they come over at the end of this month). Ayana comes from Gifu, in the Prefecture of the same name on Honshu island, population about 400,000. She likes Taylor Swift and One Direction, and her plans for the future is to become an Immigration Inspector. “I love Australia!” she exclaimed… well, there is an excellent opportunity coming up in a couple of months, when she will participate in the traditional ‘Safari’ that comes up for international Youth Exchange Students in May. |
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RYDA is on againGeoff Croad is again looking for people who would like to assist with "herding" the students who attend the various RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness) events. These are the dates on which they will be held: 18th June - All Saints Anglican College 21st July - Australian Industry Trade College 29th July - Elanora SHS 25th August - Australian Industry Trade College 15th September - AB Paterson College 13th & 16th October - Pimpama State Secondary College Please communicate with Geoff directly to advise which days you are available. For those of you who have never experienced it: The job is dead easy - just guide your group of students to the classroom where the next lesson will be presented, then signal the instructor as it gets close to the end of their allotted time. By the way: the lessons are very interesting. It wouldn't do any harm to pay attention yourself, even if you have been driving for well over 50 years as I have! Of course, you'll also meet some interesting people, such as a Highway Patrol Police officer, and you are provided with a nice morning tea with cakes and a generous lunch. |
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This Wednesday: Our YE Student Ayana Sakaka![]() See you Wednesday morning. Grab your breakfast downstairs from the bistro and take it upstairs for some fellowship before the meeting starts at 07:30 am. |
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Gold Coast Ramble: support our teams!One of our new corporate members, Ashleigh Symes (picture left) heads a corporate team from Wilsons Advisory or Last year's winner, headed by our former member Rosie Rocco (picture right) Regrettably, this year Simon Brook is not competing at the Ramble; he is fielding a team at the Maximum Adventure Race on the Sunshine Coast which happens on the same weekend. |
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Last Wednesday: Paul Smith, "Have a go!"“But when I was a young bloke, all I wanted to do was play Golf”, Paul declared. “We lived near a Golf Course in Queanbeyan (Canberra), and I got my handicap down from 27 to 9.” He completed a Golf Pro Apprenticeship for 3 years, then played in every major tournament in Australia. Quite an achievement, considering that there were some 1,500 applicants and only 140 players can make it. But professional golfing didn’t “keep body and soul together”, he said. His father decided to go into the Funeral Director business. He learned the trade in somebody |
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February is Peace & Conflict Prevention Month![]() Do you know someone that may qualify for a Rotary Peace Fellowship Scholarship? These scholarships are a valuable learning activity for a young adult up to study in overseas universities in that very subject. Basically, all expenses are paid for. Click on this link: Rotary World Peace Fellowships, or contact me if you know of a potential prospect. Ray Higgs, Chair, Peace & Conflict Resolutions Committee Rotary District 9640 |
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Sleeping Sanctuary displayed in Maleny![]() So I am at our Project Shed on Saturday morning, having a quiet coffee with the volunteers (including multiple pieces of purportedly totally calorie-free cake,
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Lovely Chinese New Year dinner |
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New Wheelchairs Flyer - see DownloadsOur super generous printer, Neil Thurlow and his very talented design artists at Accent Print & Copy have created a new flyer for our wheelchairs project. He has also provided some 2000 printed copies, which will be sent out by Apple Marketing to their mailing list of previous donors. It is uploaded to our Download Section (see right side), where you can download it and send it on to anyone whom you consider could be interested. Thank you, Neil and your team!
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Jeff Egan is District Governor Nominee for 2021-22 |
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RI President Elect Holger Knaack releases Theme 20-21![]() ![]() "Rotary isn’t just a club for people to join, but rather “an invitation to endless opportunities,” said Knaack, who becomes President on 1 July. He emphasized that Rotary creates pathways for members to improve their lives and the lives of those they help through service projects. “We believe that our acts of service, big and small, create opportunities for people who need our help,” Knaack said. He added that Rotary creates leadership opportunities and gives members the chance to travel the world to put their service ideas into action and make lifelong connections. “Everything we do opens another opportunity for someone, somewhere,” he said. Read more about it: click here.
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Wayne Leathem: Medical Repurposing Network![]() Enter the Medical Repurposing Network (MRN). Last Wednesday, we welcomed Wayne and Janet Leathem to speak about their organization. Wayne, a member of the Currumbin-Coolangatta-Tweed Rotary Club, outlined their three guiding principles: Repurposing - Sustainability - Responsiblity. So, when medical or educational equipment becomes redundant, ask yourself... Repurposing: "Are there others who could benefit from it?" Sustainablity: "Should I throw this away? What else can I do?" Responsibility: "Does this really need to go into landfill? Am I polluting the environment?" It all started off when Wayne participated in the Tour de Timor, a cycling event in the vicinity of Dili, East Timor. There, he was made aware of a severe shortage of hospital beds. And once a Rotarian gets started... This was followed by 4 Ultrasound machines to the Philippines, 60 beds to a Children's Hospital in a remote region of Fiji... But, one of the big aspects is the cost of shipping: it costs approximately $700 - 900 to ship an Ultrasound unit. Compare that to a new, Chinese manufactured, laptop based unit which costs around $2,500. Whilst in our country Tuberculosis is these days quite uncommon, in PNG, with >300 cases per 100,000 population, this is still a major issue. One of MRN's new project is the supply of Digital TB X-Ray screening system to remote regional areas of Papua New Guinea. The project's patron is the PNG High Commissioner to Australia, Mr Sakias Tameo, and the Enga Province Health Authority is on board. They have seed funding of $7,500 and are looking for 5 Rotary partners to donate US$5,000 each. Link - http://mrnetwork.com.au/x-ray-2019.html. But shouldn't we also look after our own? Yes! For outback remote Australian clinics, MRN is looking to supply 10 new Chinese made portable Ultrasounds, valued at $3000 each. These remote outback clinics are serviced by the Royal Flying Doctor service (RFDS) and not all aircraft carry Ultrasounds. While this may not change the outcome for some patients, being better informed and able to diagnose quickly and accurately will save delays and unnecessary trips to Alice Springs or Darwin. Just one remote retrieval by RFDS and returning would equal the cost of one Portable Ultrasound. Click here for more. And even in the very recent bushfire emergency saw MRN in action: via the RAAF, equipment was dropped into Mallacoota, which was totally cut off... Wayne's PowerPoint Show has been uploaded to our website - see Download Section on the right, which also contains contact details. |
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This week's Guest Speaker: Wayne Leathem![]() Medical Repurposing Network is a registered Australian charity that provides medical equipment and supplies to recipients in needy communities, both within Australia and overseas, by repurposing or recycling medical equipment that is still in good working order. It supplements this activity by purchasing medical equipment where necessary. For the past ten years, MRN has worked closely with Rotary Australia and overseas to source and fulfill medical needs. In view of our upcoming major project of the X-Ray Unit for Vanuatu, this will be of major interest for us!
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Lucy Thorburn returns to OzOK, so there is little resemblance between our Youth Exchange Student who spent the last 12 months in Minnesota, USA and Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. And the (Fire) Tornadoes happened over here not over there. By now, Lucy would have returned to our shores. President Mario's message (see Bulletin of 22nd January) outlines an email from the Youth Exchange Director of Lucy's host club, Lynn Keilor, sent to Chris Thurtell, Chair of our district's Youth Exchange Committee. ![]() We hear so often people making derogatory comments about "today's youth". Well, this sums up my view about the vast majority of "today's youth". Obviously, Lucy fulfilled her role as our ambassador for the Gold Coast and Australia in general with distinction and to our full expectations. Thank you, Lucy, and welcome back! We look forward to greeting you at one of our club meetings in the near future to hear all about your experiences! Lucy will speak at our club on 5th February - not to be missed! (Photo by Lucy, when she experienced some of the not so hot climates of Minnesota...) |
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Guilty as charged, your honour!![]() So why do I sound a bit grumpy? After all, Jesse will make a refreshing addition to a Rotary International Board overwhelmingly male (18 to 2 in the current board, actually), and it wouldn’t even surprise me if she ended up to be the first female RI President sometimes down the track. Again, why do I feel grumpy? Well, if I was to know of a person of her qualifications, of her calibre and high profile in society, I would not even have considered asking her to join my club. “Holding down her job, with a family and three kids, she wouldn’t have time to scratch herself!” would have been my excuse. Anyway, she certainly wouldn’t want to join a Breakfast Club… Yes, your Honour, guilty as charged. So, this being the period of the year when our New Year’s Resolutions start to conveniently fade into distant memory, perhaps now is the time to firmly commit to just the one: By the end of 2020, I will have witnessed the induction of a new member into my Rotary Club who was introduced by me. Doesn’t make a difference whether male or female though, but yes, a high profile lady like Dr Jesse would be great! So now, start thinking about whom you could contact, then… Just Do It! |
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So you need a list of Resolutions you can keep?![]() |
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A few more photos from Lucy Thorburn in the USA![]() Hey all the snow has started to fall heavy and the temperatures keep dropping -23 Celsius. My family and I are ready for Christmas, I’ll be making a big pavlova, which my familly is really exited for! I wish you all an amazing, safe Christmas and a happy New Years!! I’ll see you all soon in person. Regards Lucy |
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Wonderful Christmas Dinner at the Surf Club![]() But, without doubt, our current incoming Exchange Student from Japan, Ayana Sadaka (picture left) stole the show, wearing traditional Japanese dress, a Kimono! Doesn't she look breathtaking? On the following Saturday, some of our members joined our volunteers at the
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Last Saturday's Sausage Sizzle at Bunnings the biggest ever!![]() As President Mario notes in his message, this was the biggest ever. And what was, from the organizational point of view, also very nice: including our YE student Ayana and her host Silvia Fairlie (see picture, front row), we had some 20 people all up helping. And they were needed too! Special thanks to 'Minister for Everything' Geoff Croad who made arrangements with Bunnings and organized this all, and of course all the helpers (too many to list; you know who you are.) |
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Looking for RYLA Candidates (19 - 29 years old)![]() What is RYLA? It is a premier youth leadership development program for people aged 19-28. During a week long camp designed to promote proactivity, personal and professional development through a range of inspirational speakers, team building exercises and leadership training. The development of communication and presentation skills, problem solving, conflict resolution, self-confidence and self-esteem are key objectives of this program. RYLA is one of those “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences which truly has a lasting impact on your life. The high intensity seminar is filled to the brim with Australia’s leading inspirational and motivational guest speakers, who give up their time purely based on the benefits they see every year for those attending. RYLA helps young people, the future leaders of the Australia to realise their full potential and ignites their passion for life. Whether you have a sister or brother, a son or daughter, a niece, nephew, cousin, friend, colleague or even an acquaintance within the age bracket, who you think may benefit from a week of personal discovery, professional development in an uplifting and infectiously positive environment, I urge you to send them along. It will be the greatest gift you could give. Need more information? Click here. Do you know anyone who is a suitable candidate? Contact Youth Services Director PDG Darrell Brown. |
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Big Youth Exchange meeting last weekend |
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John Chirio is President Elect for 2021-22For a list of all the elected club officers 2020-21, please refer to the club bulletin, or login to our website and access the AGM minutes in the protected section, under 'Documents'.
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60 wheelchairs to DIK, 3 hospital beds for VanuatuPhoto, from top left, clockwise: Bren Milson, Shamus Davis, Des La Rance, Larry Murray. Update from District RAWCS Chair Richard Crandon: "From this consignment, 6 wheelchairs have already been dispatched to go to the Ronton Hospital at Kiritimati (Christmas Island)." [No Henrietta! Not that Christmas Island! With the Millions of dollars the government is spending on that Christmas Island, they can well afford to buy their own wheelchairs! Kiritimati is on Kiribati, just about half way between here and Mexico. ☺ Ed.]
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Surfers Sunrise awarded Rotary Citation |
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The Project Shed needs some more bikes![]() So, could you please spread the message: We need some more bikes! They can be dropped of at our Project Shed any Saturday morning, 07:30 am till 11:30 am. Drop us a message.
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Meet our Youth Exchange Student from JapanHello everyone. My name is Ayana Sadaka. I’m living in Gold Coast as an exchange student. My hobbies are listening to music, karaoke, playing and watching sports. I especially like basketball but since I came to Australia, I’ve also came to like netball. We are family of four. My mother, my father, my younger brother and I. And when I was in Japan, I was living in Gifu Prefecture. Since I came to Australia, I’ve experienced so many new thing, but I still have a lot of things that I want to do while I’m studying abroad. There are so many things that I want to do, but I especially want to play the Didjeridu, a traditional Australian instrument. I want to work at an international airport and be an immigration inspector in the future. To do so, I have to go to university that has a faculty of low and I need English skills. So, I’m studying hard now. I’ll do my best to achieve my goal. To be honest, I want to be in Australia when I am twenty-five years old. Because I was taken in by the charm of this country. I think there is no other country that has really beautiful nature and understands other cultures and multinationals. I wish I could be a citizen of this country in the future. Even If I can’t do that, I would like to come back to Australia. Thank you for supporting me. I’m a really lucky person who has been able to study in such a wonderful country. I’ll do my best for one year in response to your support. I especially like English songs, and my favorite artists are Taylor Swift, Carly Rae Jepsen and One Direction. I also like classic music, and I like Gymnopédie composed by Erik Satie. When I do Karaoke, I often sing the song of Japanese singer “miwa” and “Miku Hatsune”. I have to go to university that can learn about law because I need to know to be an immigration inspector. Sorry I made a lots of mistakes. |
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Greetings from Lucy Thorburn in Minnesota!![]() Hey everyone it’s me Lucy, sorry about the lack of updates lately it’s been busy over here. The snow has started to fall again coming into winter, temps of -16 already. I’m back at school after Summer break and living with my 3rd and last host family. They are amazing people and I’m enjoying being part of their family. I’ve been to a couple of cabins in this last month and on a lot of hikes! It was really beautiful to see a real Fall for the first time with all the leaves changing. I also got to experience my first real Halloween with the pumpkin carving, costumes and Trick or Treat. But the most exciting thing that’s happened lately was meeting Ian Riseley former president of Rotary International, whom I met this morning! It was great, I got to listen to his awesome presentation on Rotary International and I chatted to him and his wife Juliet after the presentation. They are really great people, it was great to talk to some fellow Australians it only made me miss Australia that much more! I hope all is well with everyone back home and that everyone's friends and families are safe from the bush fires! Regards Lucy. |
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The Sleeping Sanctuary was on A Current Affair!![]() Last Thursday, Associate Member Bryan Tuesley, Cr Dawn Crichlow, Kathleen Vlasic from Rosies and your Editor met with a reporting team from Channel Nine's 'A Current Affair' at Rosie's in Southport. There were interviews with all and our 'Sleeping Sanctuary' was filmed from all possible angles... and it is expected to be broadcast on Monday night - 7:00 pm. Some of you members and fans of Surfers Sunrise would recall that, back in 1997, 'A Current Affair' accompanied us to deliver the first 10 Wheelchairs to Fiji. Will this become the next huge project of the Surfers Sunrise Wheelchair Trust? Click on the yellow button to take you to a highly secure 'GoFundMe' page. Your donation will go to our Wheelchair Trust, an Australian registered charity. Remember, all labour and administration is done by volunteers - we have no overheads! A few days before that, Councillor Dawn Crichlow and Kathleen Vlasic visited our Project Shed last Saturday, accompanied by a reporting team from the Gold Coast Bulletin. And here it is published in last Monday's (11/11/19) edition! Photo shows the two ladies, with Laurie Roberts (left) who built the prototype, and Des La Rance (right), who designed it. Looking forward to getting more traction on this great project, as is reported by Cr Crichlow in this reportage. For full text, please head to the Download Page on the right. Click here to go directly to our Wheelchair Trust GoFundMe page!
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Play at the Surfers Sunrise Golf Day: 25th November![]() It will be held on Monday 25th November, shotgun start at 12:00 noon sharp. Teams of 4 players, Corporate teams, Ambrose style. Individual bookings welcome - we'll team you up! Where? Surfers Paradise Golf Club, 1 Fairway Dr, Clear Island Waters QLD 4226. Bookings are now open: click on this link: https://www.trybooking.com/BFTYQ
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This week's guest speaker: Manuela Boyle
She describes her role as "to identify the underlying causes that may be responsible for your disease. I use evidence based and unique natural medicine based interventions that are non-toxic. I design lifestyle changes and individualized diets. These qualified interventions are drawn from thorough review of hundreds of published peer-reviewed research papers. If required, I work cooperatively with your medical oncologists/radiation oncologists/oncology surgeons/urologist/ haematologist and your GP. I also collaborate with other health care practitioners such as acupuncturists, psychologists, osteopaths, massage therapists, naturopaths and nutritionists. At all times, drugs/herbs/nutrients interactions are carefully analyzed." |
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Last weekend we hosted the RFE TeamOn Saturday, we first showcased our Project Shed (see picture), where Des La Rance gave them a good run-down on how the project evolved some 23 years ago, going all the way through to the total of well over 9,000 wheelchairs shipped since, plus numerous school buildings and the House of Hope in Apia, Samoa (see the Story of the Surfers Sunrise Wheelchair Trust in the Download Section on the right, or click on this link). A hearty Thank You! to Lee Smith and Pam Peterson, who donated $100.00 to the Wheelchairs Trust. Then, we moved up to the Springbrook National Park for lunch. And - after hardly any rain for the past two or three months, guess what! It rained. Well, a Rainforest is not really a Rainforest without rain, isn't it? Sunday saw the entire group at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. They gave us a very healthy discount on the normal ticket price! Thank you Chris Thurtell, for activating some of your special connection there to get a nice area of their Cafe set aside, just for us. Naturally, our guests from North America just adored the Koalas, the Kangaroos, the Bird Show, the Sheep Shearing, the huge size Aviaries... In the evening, President Mario invited us to a dinner at one of the restaurants in Surfers. The RFE team has now moved on to their next hosts in Warwick. After that they'll be in Lismore for a few days, then come back to the Gold Coast. There is another chance to meet them: the Broadbeach Rotary Club will host them at their club meeting on Tuesday 12th November, at the Lone Star Tavern in Mermaid Beach. Are you joining us? (Note, we need to advise numbers!) A huge Thank You! goes to the hosts: Geoff & Carol Croad, Karen Holland & Peter Zollig, Richard & Sue Smith, Chris & Marie Thurtell, to my darling wife Catherine, President Mario Fairlie and all the helpers and participants for the sterling effort to make our guests comfortable. We have had nothing but very positive feedback; equally, on our side we enjoyed their company immensely. A Photo Album will shortly be set up in our Download Section. If you have any photos that we can publish, please let me have them!
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Welcome to our newest Corporate Members: Bank of Qld![]() |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Craig Thompson![]() Craig Thompson, who in his business life runs a Hertz Rental Car franchise with some 2,200 vehicles, claims he got involved in Aussie Cars almost by accident. Some 5 years ago, having a bit of a chinwag, one of his mates mentioned that he was going to buy a new Aussie Racing Car and Craig casually mentioned "yes, sure, I'll have one too!" Then a few weeks later, he got a phone call to tell him that the car is now ready for pick up... "You really need to take it seriously" Craig mentioned, "it needs lots of work, so you don't come last in every race..." In the beginning though, the aim is to simply finish a race "without making a mistake". What mistake? Well, rolling it and landing on the roof. Multiple times... So, what sort of financial commitment does one need to come up with to participate? "Not expensive" Craig mentioned laconically, "about $30,000 to enter a car for the year, about $60,000 to fund its upkeep for the whole year" he said. And, one would guess, you first need to actually buy a car - "from $65,000", according to their website. The sport is certainly high tension all the way. The famous saying in Car Racing circles applies: There is no such thing as a comfortable lead". Wanna have a ride? Click here to go for a round at the Gold Coast 600! |
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A huge RYDA class last week![]() The day involves six separate sessions that are facilitated by a Highway Patrol Officer, a Driving School Instructor, a road accident victim who has been wheelchair bound for 24 years, and others employed by Road Safety Education Limited, and of course Rotary. Well over 500,000 students have now been through this very worthwhile course. Students, who are in the 16 - 17 year age group and most with their L Pates leave at the end of the day with much to think about, and a workbook to take home. Their attendance will hopefully lower their risks as both a driver and a passenger....Rotary In Action. Photo: Debriefing at the end of the day.
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This coming Wednesday 23rd October: Craig Thompson![]() Craig started in Aussie Racing Cars in 2014 along with one of his business partners Michaeal Rinkin who was a motor dealer in the Hunter Region. He is a Hertz Licensee of more that 20 years standing and one of around 20 in Australia. He lives in Western Sydney and in recent years has set up Western Sydney Motorsport, which fields 7 cars in the 2019 Aussie Racing Car Series, now in its 20th year. The team is having a very successful year. Craig drives #72, his brother Grant also drives for the team and Justin Ruggier in car #8 is, in reality, one of the two drivers who can win the 2019 series. |
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Truckload of Wheelchairs from Palen Creek Correctional Centre![]() ![]() |
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Check - Check - all electricals are compliantNo harm to give Adam a bit of a plug: APK Electrical specializes in Commercial installations - click here to go to his website. (Photo by Larry Murray)
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This week: Polio Plus collection 9 - 11th OctoberFor those of you who are young enough to be unfamiliar with Polio Plus: The Polio virus is spread person to person, typically through contaminated water. It can attack the nervous system, and in some instances, lead to paralysis. Although there is no cure, there is a safe and effective vaccine – one which Rotary and our partners use to immunize over 2.5 billion children worldwide. Rotary started a campaign to eradicate Polio in 1985. Since then, the incidence of Polio worldwide has been reduced by 99.9% - yes, it is virtually unknown in most regions in the world. Rotary has invested more than US$ 1.9 Billion (AU$ 2.8 Billion) and countless unpaid volunteer hours to raise these enormous funds. More than 2.2 Billion children in 122 countries have been protected. But until such time as there are no further incidences reported, we need to continue the effort! Rotary is committed to raise some US$ 50 Million per annum, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has committed to match Rotary's efforts with two dollars for every dollar Rotary raises. More information: click on this link. And, by the way: if you meet an Anti-Vaxxer, you have my permission to give him/her a good piece of my mind! Ed.
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Interested to visit Pennsylvania and Arizona?![]() District Chair for RFE, Wendy Scarlett has been approached by two districts in the USA and is looking for expressions of interest in exchanges with Pennsylvania and Arizona, leaving in September and October 2020 respectively. Just one of the many places of interest: the Martin Guitar factory and museum (Johnny Cash played one of them)... Contact Wendy directly by email - click on this link.
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Will you join us for the Melbourne Cup Luncheon?![]() |
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Meet our Youth Exchange Student from Japan![]() We are looking forward to Ayana coming along soon to one of our Surfers Sunrise meetings.
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Join us for the Melbourne Cup Luncheon!![]() |
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Snippets of last week's meeting 270919Last week we had another joint meeting with the Broadwater Southport club, held at the Southport Yacht Club. Andy Bell helped at the door. We had apologies from Ray Higgs, Larry Murray, Gerald East, Mario Fairlie, Richard Smith and Neil Thurlow. Good to see Karen Holland safely back from Switzerland, and one of our freshly baked Corporate members, Todd Cole from Wilsons Advisory joined us. District Youth Exchange Chairman Chris Thurtell brought our new YE Student Ayana Sadaka (see separate article) along as well - looking forward to greeting Ayana again at one of "our" meetings soon! In view of this really being a Broadwater Southport meeting, there wasn't much Surfers Sunrise business discussed. Your editor invited all to participate in the upcoming Welcome Bar-be-que for the incoming Rotary Friendship Exchange team on Friday 1st November, and Charles Thomasson elaborated further on the Surfers Sunrise Golf Day on 25th November (see separate article). |
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Surfers Sunrise Golf Day - Monday 25th November![]()
Chief organizer Charles Thomasson is looking both for players as well as helpers. If you and/or your friends, associates, customers, suppliers want to play: Bookings have now opened - click on this link https://www.trybooking.com/BFTYQ
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The annual Movie night this Wednesday!![]() This is our annual fundraiser for Polio Plus as well as a great social evening - note: all the Rotary Clubs on the Gold Coast are participating in this! This year's movie is 'Ride like a Girl', the story of Michelle Payne, the first ever female rider to win the Melbourne Cup! See attached flyer for more details. The price is $20.00 per person, of which $10.00 goes towards the Polio Plus collection. Foundation Director Gerald East will organize the tickets. Please do pre-pay them by Direct Deposit to our club's General Account (we really don't want to collect cash on the night). Its only on for one night, so tickets are limited - first come first served. Banking details as follows: Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise Inc BSB: 484-799, Account No: 047306431 Don't forget to put your name into the Reference section! Everyone is most welcome, partners, friends, volunteers... |
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Last week's speaker: Chris Thurtell - European YE Conference![]()
and many others. A copy of the full presentation is ready for you to download - see Download Section on the right. Our club has been very active in international Youth Exchange - it is important that you keep yourself up to date.
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Our very first Corporate Membership!![]() How do Corporate Memberships work? In essence: All members are from the one company. At least one of the members is a "full" member (in this case, Charles Thomasson). The other members of the team can participate in any of the club's functions, but do not have voting rights and cannot stand for office.
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Andrea Simmons – Australian Anti Ice Campaign (AAIC)
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Rotary - Micro to MacroWhooaa Franz! Where are you going with this? Well, let me give you two examples of personal “Micro to Macro” experiences on the one day: Last Saturday, the day started off with a working bee at our club’s Project Shed. We loaded a 40’ container with over 200 wheelchairs, some 60 school desks and chairs, walkers etc, destined for PNG (ask Tanya and Mark Twyford how to stack so many in such a small place!). At an even more micro level, the wheelchairs had been lovingly put together by our volunteers, who stripped old bicycles, cut plywood, spray painted. At the other end, they’ll be handled by the local Rotary Club “over there”. The second example is less complex, yet qualifies equally for “Micro to Macro”: I got a call from a personal friend of mine whose disabled brother had passed away. He had an almost new wheelchair, two walkers, a perfectly good laser printer and other paraphernalia. He knew that “Rotary can find a good home for that stuff”. Yes, but our club doesn’t handle “western” style wheelchairs, but the Burleigh Heads club does, via Donations in Kind in Brisbane. One phone call, a quick trip to deliver the goods, and I could assure my friend that the goods will end up in a good place, without any “baksheesh” being collected by a corrupt official. How good is it to be part of a “ready made” organisation like that? How good is it to be a member of Rotary? |
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10 years ago we launched RYDAThe RYDA project is off with a bang! We have 4 schools committed to a week of training from 23rd to 27th November (Schoolies Week). Committed clubs are Mermaid, Broadbeach, Southport, Robina, Parkwood, Surfers & Gold Coast Central. There will be a lot of work to be done, distributed amongst the clubs with me being Committee Chair, Margaret Grummitt - School Bookings Coordinator, Michael Cullen - Presenters Coordinator, Graham Jones - Rotary Volunteers Coordinator, Ken Gosney & Lisa Lock - Fund Raising / Sponsorship / Media Coordinator, me - Secretary, Bob Harrison - Treasurer, Ian Mayberry - Day Manager, Graham Jones, Ken Gosney... Since then, thousands of kids have undergone this one day instruction course on Road Safety, specifically designed for the 17 year old age group. I'd dare to say it made a difference, probably saved numerous lifes. Proud to be associated with this great program. Give yourself a pat on the back, fellows! Main photo above: some of the initial RYDA helpers in action 10 years ago (from left): Peter Baruch, Ray Higgs, Geoff Croad, Geoff McCoombe, Angus Miller, Ken Gosney. |
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Container loaded to the rim |
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3 new members inducted into Surfers SunriseCongratulations and welcome to the club! Photo (from left) Karen Holland, Ben Illes, President Mario Fairlie and Doug Garvie. |
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People of Action alright!![]() Photo (by DGE Andy Rajapakse) from left: Past District Governor Ross Smith of Burleigh Heads, Rowan Johnstone President of Gold Coast, Wayne Kirby President of Hope Island, and "our" District Treasurer Mark Twyford and Neil Thurlow of Surfers Sunrise.
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Councillor Dawn Crichlow on ABC Radio talks about our PODs![]() |
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Rotary's Best Kept Secrets: RFE
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Neil Thurlow rode in the MS Brissie to Bay![]() 'On ya, Neil! What a trooper! [This actually happened a few weeks ago in June, but somehow, it slipped through your Editor's (electronic) fingers. Simply can't trust those computers... ☺]
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Greetings from Lucy Thorburn in Minnesota![]() Summer is in full swing here is Minneapolis. Our days are getting up to 33 degrees and very humid. About two weeks ago now I got back from my rotary East Coast trip. I left Minneapolis on June15th and drove with 46 other rotary exchange students from both Minnesota and Wisconsin to the East Coast of America. We drove through 22 states and stop at 12 different city from St. Louis Illinois to New York City, the trip was about 2 weeks long. By far this this trip has be the best part of my year so far. Some of the things we did ranged from River Rapiding in the Smoky Mountains, Line Dancing in Nashville, Touring a Navy ship in Norfolk Virginia and visiting the city that never sleeps (and it’s true New York never sleeps). Now I’m back home enjoying the summer days with my friends on the lakes or hammocking in the park. Hope all it well with everyone back home and that your not to cold too! Regards, Lucy.
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After crawling for 35 years...Hello Franz I wish I could elaborate more on the condition but that reality of it is she has grown up and spent her entire life in the village so actual details are non existent. At best it’s an educated guess. This what we know: she is 39, the surviving twin just after her twin died she became lame (her family believe it is curse); my guess is polio that is what killed her (but that) is a guess. But what I do know is she has never had the opportunity to have wheel chair, she moves by crawling- But beyond the disability it is clear she carries the pain of shame and has low self esteem and even lower self worth. We thank Rotary and the team, the wheel chairs are so often a start to a different life. For us we are in the process of see what funds we can raise for Regina and we are looking to purchasing a hand powered sewing machine (we have collection of materials etc and lady willing to travel to the village to train her) plus solar panel and battery with 12 volt clippers. ![]() Thanks In His Grip Christopher Shadbolt Des La Rance also received a 'Thank you' message from the Rotary e-Club of South Africa One (see photo on right), thanking us for our donation of 120 wheelchairs. There is little doubt that in addition to Regina mentioned in the story above, there are another 119 equally deserving disabled people whose life will have substantially improved as a result of the work of our volunteers and Associate Members who are "slaving along" every Saturday at the Project Shed.
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DG Harry Bolton & Shauna visit Surfers Sunrise![]() |
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Gold Coast Passport Club Charter![]() [I wonder: will the wine and cheese be served on a small airline style tray...? ☺☺ Ed.]
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"Late" Award presentations![]() ![]() ![]() From top left:
Congratulations to all, well deserved! |
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Des La Rance awarded with Life MembershipCongratulations, Des! Photo above: President Mario, Des La Rance, Jo Winwood
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This week: Major Multi Club Project meeting![]() When Mario Fairlie attended the President Elect Training Seminar (PETS), he met with the Presidents Elect of the Broadbeach and Gold Coast Rotary Clubs, Dr Graham Sivyer and Rowan Johnstone respectively. Dr Graham indicated that he had identified a major need for a X-Ray Unit to be established in a hospital on the Espiritu Santo Island, in the Samna Province of Vanuatu. The hospital doesn't have one at all; travel to the nearest one that does have one takes over 5 hours. It needs more than just a X-Ray Unit: they don't have electrical power off the grid, so it needs to be solar / battery powered... We all know that "there are no flies" on Des La Rance, our Chief Designer and Mover & Shaker at the Project Shed. He set to work and here is the preliminary draft. To an extent, it is based on the very successful design of the Samoa Schools we have installed, with solar panels and batteries. Next step is to obtain a District Grant as well as a Global Grant. For the Global Grant, Mario will liaison with his friend who introduced him to Rotary, PDG Fred Hansen in Norway. Jump over to the Photo Album Section on the right for more images of Des' design.
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Our next major Project Shed item: a 'Pod'![]() No, it is a Mini-Accommodation on wheels for the homeless. Our indefatigable President Mario Fairlie has had discussion with the equally indefatigable local City Councillor Dawn Crichlow about this potential new project which Surfers Sunrise might become involved with at our the Shed. A picture tells a thousand words they say - so check out the attached image of the front page of a recent Gold Coast Bulletin article (you can expand it so you can actually read it - just press Ctrl + ). The estimated cost is $500 plus the bicycle to pull it. And yes, Dawn will take it to the council. At last Wednesday's meeting, Des La Rance gave us a good run down on how this will happen. See President Mario's message above. |
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Changeover 2019: The AwardsA bit over a week ago, our club held its annual Changeover Luncheon, presided over by (now Past) President Jo Winwood and (now) President Mario Fairlie. The Changeover Report (there is a copy in the Download Section on the right for you, in case you didn’t get the specially bound first edition at the luncheon) outlines the various reports that were given, so I’ll refrain from rehashing it all. But on that occasion, we also had the presentation of the club's major annual awards to their well deserving recipients: ![]() |
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Paul Harris Fellowship Award for Tanya Twyford![]() But back to what a Paul Harris Fellowship is all about: Individuals can donate $US 1,000 to the foundation to receive a PHF, or to nominate another person But so can any organization and to this effect, in addition to the awards shown in the story above, our club has selected an outstanding individual to be recognized: Tanya Twyford. While Tanya is not a member of our club (yet??), to no doubt her untiring work with the Wesley Mission makes her a highly deserving recipient. In recognition of their service to the club, Larry Murray, Andy Bell and Mitch Brown were also presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship Award. Congratulations to all! |
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Remember Jodie Chilby? |
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Security System installed at the Project Shed![]() ![]() |
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Surfers Sunrise Wheelchair Trust comes 'of age'![]() Our Club registers its own Charity Company At last Wednesday’s Board Meeting, the formal go ahead was given to setup our own Charity Organization. This was also necessary to ensure that the people donating to the Wheel Chair Project receive full Tax Deductibility, and that the materials purchased can be bought Salestax Exempt. [Yes, that was before GST! And yes, I still had hair then... ☺ Ed.] Jonathon Withers and Peter Presser have worked tirelessly to get this on the rails prior to 30 June. The structure of the company will be that the members of Surfers Sunrise will always have total control of the Charity Company: Its office bearers will always consist of both the current and past Presidents, plus another three directors as well as the Secretary and Treasurer are to be elected/confirmed annually to their positions by the club members. The initial board of the Charity Company will be as follows: President: Des La Rance Vice President: Phil Parry (Club President 1998/99) Directors: Franz Huber (Immediate Past Club President) John Appleton Secretary: Johathon Withers Treasurer: Bob Harrison The Wheelchair Trust has truly come of age! 21 years later: going stronger than ever! |
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Visualize... Imagine a picture...So what is all that visualizing about? Simple: in the absence of your editor (he is still slightly damaged goods, albeit steadily improving), every one else was simply too busy to take photos..! ☺ A big Thank You! to all the participants and to Paula Brand and her team for inviting us! |
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Surfers Sunrise joins Islamic Society for an Iftar![]() "In this sacred month of Ramadan, we would like to take an opportunity to invite you and your team to have an Iftar (breaking fast) and dinner at the Islamic Society of Gold Coast.... ... In order to spread the spirit of goodwill and happiness, we look forward to your participation, we hope you will take part in the event to make it a great success." But - but - but... Isn't Rotary supposed to be non-denominational? Yes, indeed! But that doesn't mean that Rotarians are not permitted to practice their religion, or for that matter - as in this instance - communicate with members of other religions. Quite the opposite: The fourth Object Rotary is "The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service." (click here for the full text of the Objects of Rotary). The Islamic Society has in the past been instrumental of getting container loads of our wheelchairs into the war torn areas of Syria, Afghanistan etc. Yes, this is exactly what International Understanding is all about. A fair number of our members and their partners attended (see picture, by Mark Twyford). To no doubt, it is events of this nature which provide the means to break down barriers. A sincere 'Thank you!' goes to the Islamic Society for the invitation. |
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Excellent Fellowship BBQ at the Twyfords on Saturday![]() No rest for the wicked though: as incoming District Treasurer, Mark was off at the crack of dawn to travel to Warwick to attend the first District Training Assembly! A big Thank You! to Mark & Tanya for putting this on! Picture on left (by Mark Twyford): Mark, Sue Smith and President Jo enjoying the open fire in the court yard. Ah, the old open fire just makes such a difference to the ambience! More pictures on our Photo Album (see right side)
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Changeover Luncheon: Sunday 23rd JunePresident Jo Winwood and Elect Mario Fairlie invite all members, Associate members and their partners and friends to join them for our traditionally classy event. This year it will be held at Links Hope Island Hope Island Road Hope Island 4212 Price $30.00 per head for an elegant two course lunch. Superb venue, easy parking. Bookings have now closed. Please contact Graham Isaacson business@mainbeachpo.com if you require assistance.
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Greetings from our YE Student in the USA![]() "This month I haven't been doing much", Lucy Thorburn, our Youth Exchange Student in Minnesota, USA reports... Besides attending school of course, just playing Badminton and building snowmen in April... Here are a couple of pictures: Left: Lucy (right) with some of her Badminton Team. Below: Snow in April - possibly not an unusual occurrence in Minnesota! Additional photos have been uploaded to the Photo Album Section on the right. ![]() |
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People of Action alright! Defibrillator training![]() Kerry Packer started it all, when in 1990 he financed the purchase of Defbrillators for all the NSW Ambulances, following his life being saved by just such a device. Recently, our club bought a Defibrillator which is now installed at our Project Shed. But how to use it? What do you actually do if somebody collapses in a heap and stops breathing, stops responding? So, last Saturday, some 15 members and Associates underwent First Aid and Defibrillator training, provided by Cardiacsafe, the supplier of the device. We learned not only the principles of First Aid, but also how to deploy the Defibrillator. Let's hope we'll never need to use it, but as the frequently quoted saying goes: Hope is not a strategy! ![]() By the way, did you know that the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest rises from 9% to approximately 75% if a Defibrillator is deployed within minutes? And, by the way, cardiac arrests don't just happen to senior people. It could just as easily happen to a competitor in a school footy game (or his dad getting over excited on the sidelines... ☺). Perhaps it's time for all of use to have a bit of a refresher on First Aid? The Australian Resuscitation Council has lots of information, guide lines and flow charts to assist. jump to their website which has lots and lots of very practical and easy to follow stuff on the subject: https://resus.org.au/ And don't forget, the owner of Cardiacsafe, Tristan Hardwick, will speak at our club on 15th May. |
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Last Wednesday: Charles Thomasson on Election Finances![]() One of the seldom mentioned benefits of belonging to a Rotary Club is that quite often there is an expert in a particular subject right among the members! Not only is he or she there, but you can be reasonably certain that trust is not misplaced. So, last Wednesday our very own Charles Thomasson, who is a partner at Wilson's Advisory, gave us a good run down on the major items one has to consider. Keeping strictly within the boundaries (Rotary is NOT involved in politics), Charles addressed the major aspects. As he is, by law, compelled to do, Charles also made it quite plain that anything he says is general advice, not specific to anyone's personal situation: Here is the official wording: Charles gave the example of how a portfolio of an investor with a ‘Balanced’ Risk Profile could look. A risk profile is an assessment of an investor’s tolerance to investment risk. It is a key aspect of portfolio construction and is critical to determining appropriate asset allocation, recommended investments and target returns. The Wilsons Risk Profile is attached. The advice contained in this document is general advice. It has been prepared without taking account of any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. So, how will the stock market react? "Who knows?" was Charles' response, "but it is unlikely to make a big difference, simply because the policies of all parties have been out there for months beforehand, and generally the eventualities are already calculated in." Of course, there was lots and lots of other questions answered. Questions kept coming, all where competently answered. What? Sorry, you should have been there yourself! But, once the dust has settled, Charles promised to come back and give us an assessment of what will likely be happening once we know who will (or attempt to run) our wonderful country for the next three years. Stay tuned! On the Download Section (right hand side), you will find Wilson's Risk Profile summary. Of course, you can contact Charles directly: Charles.Thomasson@wilsonsadvisory.com.au |
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Larry & Des demonstrate at the Blokes Lounge![]() Last week, Larry Murray and Des La Rance visited one of their meetings and not only demonstrated our wheelchairs project, but made them assemble one, which they successfully accomplished in 12 minutes flat! Larry, I'm sure with a tear in his eye, lamented that our club was short of finances and a quick passing of the hat raised a very creditable $333.70. There is no evidence who donated the 70 cents! Thank you to all the blokes! |
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The Small Business Expo just two weeks away![]() And, hey, check out this flyer - download the full file from the Download Section on the right: they have some great speakers! Talking about powerful females...! And this is just one part from noon to 1:30 pm!
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Last week: Tahlia Fenech & Jacqui Wark on RYLA![]() The girls started the presentation off with a video, showing the awardees enjoying every minute by participating in activities as straight forward as sliding down a slippery water slide to team activity of constructing a raft and then “racing” it across the pond. You can catch a bit of that video on the RYLA website. Obviously, everyone is having a ball! Your editor remarked that, from the video, it would appear that it is simply a giant holiday camp? “Far from it!” both the girls exclaimed, “I have repeatedly been taken way out of my comfort zone” Tahlia outlined. "One of the most beneficial items was to learn how to believe in myself" she said. There are numerous activities which not only stretch the brain, but the various Keynote and motivational speakers really help the awardees to set goals and learn how to achieve these goals. RYLA, now a program run in numerous Rotary Districts throughout Australia and internationally, is truly home grown: it was originally started in Queensland, as far back as 1959. Photo (from left): Our club's Chair of Youth Service, Tania Laird, Jacqui Wark and Tahlia Fenech. |
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Simon Brook & Jodie McClintock have a baby!![]() ![]() Our hearty congratulations to you both!
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The Rotary Foundation - maximum effect![]() |
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The Defibrillator is installed!![]() ![]() ![]() |
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Lucy Thorburn takes the plunge - at freezing temp!First feedback from our Youth Exchange Student in Minnesota, USA. Never mind freezing temperatures - Lucy Thorburn takes the plunge i ![]() Good morning this is Lucy Thorburn, I wanted to send you a like update on my exchange so far it’s been a crazy two months already. So it start with the first week of me being here in Minnesota we had the Polar vortex temperatures of -38 degrees celsius, that week school was cancelled four days in a row due to the crazy cold temps! We’ve also had lots of snow this winter so I’ve been skiing, snowboarding, sledding, ice skating and snowball fights with friends. I’ve already met some really awesome people, my rotary club here is very impressed with everything you guys do with your wheelchair program, they started a program two years back in India to help girls get an education, right now they are funding around nine all girls schools and have help thunderous of girls in the last two years! A couple of my friends and I participated in The Polar Plunge which was a fundraiser for Special Olympic (it’s pretty much jumping into frozen lake water temps below 0, craziness I know!) We ended up raising $1,900 as a team, I’ll leave some pictures and videos down below. I’m also playing badminton at school for my after school spring sports with a couple of friends. My friend Lucy and I are playing doubles ( and yes everyone has a little laugh that we are both named Lucy). We made the varsity which is the best team to be on so we are really happy about that! Photo on left: Menolly (host sister), Lucy Thorburn, Kelly (host mum), Brennan (host brother( and Bryce (host dad). More photos in Photo Album - see right side.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Des La Rance![]() The original wheelchairs not only recycled part of the frame, but also the wheels. As their tyres would go flat, this turned out to be not the optimal way, so new wheels and BMX style tyres with solid inner tubes have been deployed since. Since then, almost 9,000 wheelchairs have been manufactured from old bicycles, plywood and other components, at a cost of just $100.00 each. The most recent batch of 280, loaded into a 40 foot container, is destined for Bangladesh. ![]() For many people, an achievement of this magnitude would do nicely, thank you. Not Des: visiting Vanuatu, he saw a family living under a bit of corrugated sheeting. "Something needed to be done about that" - the typical decision. Des designed a low cost house, which not only was easily built, flat packed for shipment in a container, but was also designed to be cyclone proof (and verified to be, by our Charter President and Civil Engineer Bill Moir). From this design emanated a design for a school to accommodate children who were orphaned in the Tsunami that devastated Indonesia and Thailand on Boxing Day of 2004. Just a few years later, in 2007, a tsunami hit Samoa. Our club, using a similar design, manufactured, supplied and installed a Primary School in the Matafaa Village on the south coast of Samoa. This was followed by a massive project, in concert with the Samoa Victims Support Group, to supply and erect an orphanage in Apia, followed by delivering a second classroom in 2016. So where to from here? No rest for the wicked, as they say: President Elect Mario Fairlie has had discussions with other Rotary Clubs in the Surfers Paradise cluster to supply a Radiology Unit to a hospital in Vanuatu. "They have the hospital, but no X-Ray Unit" Des explained. "No flies on him", as the common Australian colloquialism says: Des' design is ready. It is similar to the last Samoa school, based on a 40 foot container, which ultimately becomes a major structural component of the building, with 50 mm Refrigeration Panels, wooden frames, cyclone proof...
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The weekend that was the District ConferenceI've written an article in the most recent issue of the District Governor's newsletter. Click on this link to access it. Ah, almost forgot: Surfers Sunrise won the Best Club Communications Award (picture right)
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Last week's Guest Speakers: The Blenders![]() A Barbershop Quartett must strictly follow the rules of the Australian Association of Barbershop Harmony Convention. Bit the choir progressed - to one of its pinnacles of achievement, appearing at the Closing Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2018. "Every year, the songs get more complicated, but on the other hand, the learning materials also have become so much better, due to them being IT based", Roy advised. And it's not just voice, tonal and vowel matching. These days Choreography much comes into it too! Barry Mallett followed up with a very interesting metaphor, comparing Barbershop style singing to Rugby... What?? Come again? Yes, Barry called it "Rugby without the contact"... Further, learning songs is good for the brain - not to be underestimated, as - as one gets older - anything that improves brain power is good for you! "Singing Barbershop Harmony sort of makes your bones vibrate," Barry said, "it's similar to guided meditation, or [censured]..." [sorry, you should have been there... Ed.] Reams of questions resulted in us literally running out of time. What a pity! An actual performance of one of their quartets would have put the cherry on the cake! |
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Thank you from John HallSurfers Sunrise Rotary - To President Joanne I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the generous donation you gave me with my recent sponsorship for the Greatest Shave. Your donation helped me to reach my goal. The reason this charity is so close is because my wife recently passed away due to cancer and we have had a few friends who passed with the same By fundraising for the World's Greatest Shave, I have helped give families facing cancer the emotional and practical support they need and fund vital research to help more people survive. Kind regards (signed) John Hall. |
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Massive injection of funds into our District projectsBut wait, there's more! Graham also advised that the program originally started by the Rotary club of Maclean (and now taken over by the District) into Human Brain Research has been given a major boost via a Global Grant by The Rotary Foundation of $90,000. This will permit a second scholarship at the University of Queensland, specifically supporting the study of Parkinson's Disease. A fund has been setup within the Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS), which enjoys Deductible Gift Recipient (e.g. Tax Deductability) status. It is named The Rotary Australia Benevolent Society, or short RABS. Graham is looking to our club to chair the group in our District.
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Best kept Secret: Botanical GardensBack to the guided walks: honestly, despite your Editor's genuine interest in the Australian Bush, I had no idea these walks existed. And there are more, several times every week! Butterfly Walks, Native Bee Walks... Click on this link to get directly to the Friends of the Gardens own website.. And, either before and/or afterwards, have a nice cuppa at the Friends of the Gardens Centre. And, as I couldn't, try to resist the urge to buy a jar of one of their special jams...
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This coming Wednesday 20th March: The Blenders![]() A meeting with a difference: pure entertainment! The world famous Barbershop A Capella group 'The Blenders' will join us! Can't miss that! And to make it even more interesting: PDG Graham Jones will drop in to bring us up to date on the Malaria Vaccine Project our district is partnering with Griffith Uni. Choose from the club's Buffet or from their extensive breakfast menu, or just have a cuppa. Note: order in the bistro downstairs, then take your meal to the upstairs restaurant and enjoy the fellowship! |
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Surfers Sunrise to participate in Small Business ExpoBut this year, we have also been invited to run a booth ourselves! What a terrific opportunity for membership promotion! You can find more information on the event on their website: www.smallbusinessexpos.com.au (don't be confused by the registration page popping up in your face - just close it to see the website itself.)
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The Lismore District Conference starts this week!Why attend a District Conference?
Registration for Rotarians and their partners is free of charge, however, in fairness, a fee applies to partake in the events which serve food. Click on this link to go to the Registration Page. Note: Registrations close this Sunday, 24th March. |
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23rd March 2019: Guess who is coming to Dinner?Saturday week, 23rd March. Please register your interest with Gus Miller. ![]() This is a great social evening with an air of mystery as neither the guests nor hosts know who is attending, respectively who will host. Gus needs about 4 volunteer hosts, but regardless of whether you are hosting or not, he will need final numbers of attendees so we can make sure that we have enough hosts. Note: it is an 'impromptu, minimal fuss' affair: if you are hosting and you are an accomplished chef and want to show it off: slave over a hot stove and cook a three course dinner! At the other end of the scale, simply organize some take-away pizza. Or anything in-between! The principal purpose is to have a great night! For those who have not attended one of these dinners before: Firstly, you will all gather at a particular address for a drink & nibble. The hosts' address for the evening will then be drawn up, who will then make their way to that address for the dinner. Each host will have nominated the number of guests they would like, but they will not know who will come to dinner, nor will the guests know who else will be at that given address. The food is provided by the hosts, for which the guests will contribute $15 per head and provide their own drinks [and perhaps have a glass to spare for the host too..! Ed] . The menu is entirely at the whim of the host, anything from caviar to pizza. Gus needs to know who will be participating by the next meeting on the 20th March. Please register your interest directly with Gus Miller 0418 886 422 or email agipmiller@gmail.com. |
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Visitors from Wisconsin, USA at the Project Shed![]() 'Rotary Friendship Exchange'?? It's just one of the many marvelous facets of Rotary. How does it work? Well, in essence, a team from one District is hosted by another District, and then, a few months later, vice-versa. [Your Editor and his better half will participate in a team going to the very north of the USA (Seattle) and British Columbia in June/July, and in turn we'll host their team in early November.] The team members pay their own individual costs (flights, restaurants, tours etc), but are accommodated by their host clubs. Interested? A team will visit Brazil in 2020. Click here for more details. Update: Just a day later, we have received feedback from one of the members of the group, Tom Kaminski, reaching out to his contacts, both in Australia as well as in the US, who may be able to assist on obtaining materials at special prices and getting the wheelchairs to their ultimate destination. Yes, that is the worldwide network of Rotary!
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Excellence in Workmanship Awards: great event!![]() Chad Elger, Duty Manager at Club Helensvale and Luke Wade, Head Greenkeeper at Club Helensvale with sponsor: Gerald East Sponsor Mark Twyford with Kate Hooper, Manager of Gold Coast Pistol Club Shane Beacall, Operations Manager at Mission Australia with sponsor Tanya Twyford Bonnie Graham, Service Manager at Frizelle's Southport, sponsor Col Laurenson and Chris Tompkins, Manager of Aus-Tech Electrical Services More photos in the Photo Album Section on the right. All photos by Charles Thomasson.
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Want to support the flood victims in Townsville?![]() Project Number 75-2018-19: North Queensland Flood Relief Appeal Description: A Relief Project to accept donations for those affected by the 2019 North Queensland Floods. Sponsored by: RAWCS National On-line donations can be made through the following link: https://donations.rawcs.com.au/75-2018-19. The appeal has Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) registration and has been listed as a Charitable Fund so we can accept tax deductible donations from individuals or organisations. |
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This Wednesday: Vocational Excellence AwardsIt will be held at Quality Hotel (formerly Lone Star Tavern) Cnr Markeri & Sunshine Blvd Mermaid Waters, QLD, 4218 (plenty of parking right outside the door) Time: 6:00 pm for 6:30 start Cost is $35.00 per person, for a sumptuous 2-course meal (NOT tough roast etc - read the full article for the menu). Cash Bar will be open. The venue is very popular with Rotary functions; your Editor has attended several there and I have always been impressed with the quality of the meals and their service. Please pre-book no later than Sunday 17th February 2019, and pre-pay: click on this link. Why not just do it right now? You can pay by Credit Card! Click on 'Read more' for full menu. |
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Project Shed fitted with new Roller Doors![]() Do you know a sign writer who would do us a good deal? We'd like it made very clear what Rotary is doing at our Project Shed! Contact Larry Murray with your details. |
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YE Student Alissa Lott presents: Minnesota!![]() |
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Lucy Thorburn arrived safely in the USA![]() |
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New Rotary Theme for 2019-20 releasedIt's out! Rotary International President Elect Mark Daniel Maloney has announced the Theme for Rotary International for the up
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This coming Wednesday: Kay Chiswell, Commonwealth Games Multi Faith CentreKay Chiswell, together with Lakshmi Narasimhan, was in charge of the Multi Faith Centre at last year's Commonwealth Games. So, how do you cater for the requirements of the multitude of religions that are followed by the athletes and officials from the various countries of the (former) British Empire and keep them from tearing into each other? Well, you'll just have to wait till Wednesday! |
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A car load of gifts for disadvantaged children![]() |
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Morning Tea in memory of Bob HarrisonLast Saturday, Gloria Harrison and her family joined us at the Project Shed to share a meal with the members and volunteers of Surfers Sunrise. As reported previously, Bob had been a Charter Member of our club, commencing in 1987. See full details in the Download Section and the Photo Album on the right. Following President Jo Winwood's announcement that the club will make a donation of $500.00 in memory of Bob to The Rotary Foundation's Polio Plus fund (which will be tripled by the pledge of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to donate $2.00 for every $1.00 from Rotary), your Editor was privileged to say a few words on behalf of the members and volunteers. A number of people asked me about the poem I finished off with (by that great master, 'Anon'), which I feel suits Bob to a tee. So here it is: Miss me – but let me go (Anon) When I come to the end of the road And the sun has set for me I want no rites in a gloom filled room Why cry for a soul let free? Miss me a little – but no too long And not with your head bowed low Remember the love that we once shared Miss me – but let me go. For this journey that we all must take And each must go alone It’s all part of the Master’s plan A step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart Go the the friends we know And busy your sorrows on doing good deeds Miss me – but let me go. |
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36 Wheelchairs from Gladstone![]() |
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Memorial Morning Tea for Bob Harrison this Saturday 15/12/18![]() Bob joined Surfers Sunrise at its Charter in February 1987, with the Classification ‘Land Surveying’. How would we all remember Bob? My description, and that of just about everyone I spoke to, came up with “the proverbial quiet achiever”, “Mr Reliable” and honorifics of similarly highly complimentary and very much deserved type. So we knew that Bob was the Club’s Treasurer for over 20 years. We knew that he was the Wheelchair Trust’s Treasurer since its inception in 1997, when the first batch of 10 wheelchairs was delivered to crippled children in Fiji. We knew that Bob would unfailingly roll up on Saturday morning at the Project Shed to work hands-on. We knew that Bob was the hardest man for the Sergeant to fine.... Bob's contribution to Rotary and to the community is too extensive to fit onto the Home Page. I have written a full article about Bob; please download it from the Download Pages on the right. Ed.] |
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Mario Fairlie presented with PHF + 5 Sapphires![]() |
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Inaugural Bike Sale a roaring success!
Picture above shows Abigail, the proud new owner of the Cervélo Super Racing Bike, with (from left) PDG Darrell Brown, Andy Bell, Abigail's partner Ben, Chief organizer Larry Murray, Paul Seymour.
See more photos in the Photo Album section on the right. |
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This Saturday, 8th December: Big Bike Sale![]() We'll need lots of manpower [no, Henrietta, 'manpower' does not exclude women! ☺]. Contact Chief Organizer Larry Murray larrypm@ozemail.com.au.
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Last Wednesday's Guest Speaker: Warren Humphries OAMIn 2013, Warren assisted the Rotary Club of Coomera River to advise them in establishing a Men's Shed at Oxenford. It started in January 2014 with 38 paid up members. It now has in excess of 70 members and 14 female associate members. This was followed by consulting the Beenleigh Rotary Club in 2016. So, without doubt, Warren is this region's expert in Men's Sheds! But what do they actually do? Well, you name it: fix bikes, lawnmowers, make cubby houses. You'll see young men working alongside older men, learning new skills. And vice-versa, the old fellows might just learn a couple of things from the young 'uns... You'll see teabags and coffee cups and an area where men can sit and talk. You will probably also see an area where men can learn how to cook, or how to use a computer. But what is really special? Well, most men in our culture don't talk about feelings and emotions, and that goes for men of all age groups and from all walks of life. That also means they usually don't ask for help. At the Men's Shed, there is no pressure. These days, Men's Sheds have popped up in New Zealand, the UK, Ireland, Europe, the USA and many other countries. Rotary Clubs around the world are involved. Which brings Warren to the question: "Would Surfers Sunrise consider incorporating a Men's Shed in our Wheelchair Shed?" No doubt, a lot of discussion would be required. Since our Wheelchairs operates under a Trust, the legals alone would present some substantial hurdles to be overcome. But the idea has lots of merits: more (associate) members, the shed could be open 6 days a week, less likelyhood of losing the building lease due to under utilization, being just a few. For more information about the Australian Men's Sheds Organization, click here, for Men's Shed Labrador, click here. |
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Col Laurenson and DIK win another major national award![]() Photo on left shows Northern Region DIK Chief Col Laurenson, flanked by regular volunteers Royce and Lynn Allan. Congratulations all! Well done!
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Remember Lyssia Demeulenaere?![]() I'm currently doing an internship in Bolivia and seeing how I cope with everything here, on my own, it really gives me the opportunity to see all I learnt during my time in Australia. It is a lot different of course. Here, I'm part of an organisation that works on food security and launched an organic garden in the city. My time here is divided between time in the office where I do research on urban agriculture and fieldwork in the garden. I'm really enjoying it all! I hope everything is going fine at the Rotary Club. I follow a bit of your adventures on facebook. Please pass on my salutations to everyone. As Gerald mentioned, when he read it, "Bolivia" conjured up memories of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid... [Yes, you are betraying your age, Gerald! Yes, it was in 1969! ☺ Ed.] |
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Hello from our YE Student Alissa from the US![]() Hello Surfers Sunrise, I’ve been keeping busy on exchange as my time is almost over here in the States! In the middle of October it was MEA. This is a 3 day break we have from school when the teachers do workshops, from Wednesday to Friday. Since it is a long break, a lot of people use it to go travelling. My host family took me to Missouri! We went to Hannibal, the town that Mark Twain is from which was really interesting. We got to tour the caves that inspired the caves from the Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn books as well as tour Mark Twains childhood home. It was all super fascinating to learn about. After that, we went to St. Louis where one of my host brothers is in college. We went to Oktoberfest, and I did an escape room with my family which was the first time I’d done that. It was really fun. A couple of weeks ago we had a Rotary Fall Weekend with all the exchange students in the district which was so much fun! We carved pumpkins, went hiking, and had a costume party at night at the restaurant next to our hotel. I haven’t done anything too major after that, but last weekend I went rollerblading with my friend Maddy and this week is our school play and I am going to a concert with some friends from school. It’s starting to get cold and people are getting ready for Thanksgiving, which will be really fun to experience for the first time! Here are some photos from everything I’ve been up to recently. Alissa Lott. [See more photos on our Photo Album on the right. Ed.] |
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Last Saturday - first stage of bike prep![]() |
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A pre-view of your burialHmmm... not sure how many of our members who visited a "behind the scenes" tour of Dracula's last Wednesday felt like having a shot of brandy after the opening introduction - purely for medicinal purposes of course, just to ensure the heart is still going! Executive Producer Richard Macionis guided us through the venue, explaining the various aspects of how the show is created and staged. We visited the wardrobe department, where the chief seamstress Robyn is ready to design outfits which require a special wild imagination! And to top it off: Dracula's gave us a generous bunch of tickets for us to raffle or auction off for fundraising purposes. Thank you, President Jo and 'First Bloke' Tony for arranging this - a Rotary meeting with a difference, indeed! |
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Polio Plus collection raises almost $1,000This year's collection for Polio Plus was once again conducted at Runaway Bay Shopping Centre, an ideal venue due to its demographic of mainly older people, who are the givers to this type of collection. In the past we used to do Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Then to suit the working members of our Club who claimed they were unable to assist on any of those days, we changed to Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Last year we had no working members come on the Saturday, this year we had one (Simon Brook). As the Saturday has a lot of younger visitors who no nothing of Polio nor Rotary, and we therefore take less money, I would suggest that from next year we revert to the Wednesday, Thursday Friday format.....I believe it is still important to have a personal presence with this, as you have face to face contact with people. This year we had a woman who is a school teacher who is going to try and get her school involved in R.Y.D.A. after talking to her about it. Another woman with ties to the medical profession had an anaesthetic machine to donate for overseas use, we put her in touch with Col Laurenson and that is proceeding. So there is more to it than just collecting, we have to be out there in person.
This year we conducted 24 two hour shifts covered by Mark Twyford, Mitch Brown, Col Laurenson, Fred Hamblen Angus Miller, Andy Bell, Larry Murray, Simon Brook, John Chirio who did one shift each, Mario Fairlie, Ray Higgs, Darrell Brown (2 each) Geoff Croad (3) Gerald East (6). We collected $351 Thursday, $396 Friday, $220 Saturday a total of $967-00 if you add to that the amount that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation add to it with their two for one offer, it comes to $2901-00 or $60-43 per man hour which is pretty good in my book. I would also like to thank Geoff Croad for his assistance with filling the gaps in the roster and for picking up and returning the equipment we use each time. Also, this collection enables the members some one on one fellowship time with each other. Thank you all for your help. |
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Surfers Sunrise wins Rotary International Presidential Citation![]() Sponsor or have club members actively involved in a Polio Plus event Partner with The Rotary Foundation by sponsoring at least one project funded by a global grant or a district grant. ![]() Carry out at least one project focused on the environment Attain a minimum contribution of $100 US per capita to The Rotary Foundation Photo above (by Charles Thomasson): PDG Darrell presents Andy Bell with the certificate. |
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Donations in Kind has found a new homeAccording to DIK's September newsletter (copy in the Download Section on the right - there is also some interesting stuff in there!), "We have received an offer of the above premises in Kingston from the Queensland Department of Housing and Public Works as an interim ‘home’ for Donations in Kind and we have responded suggesting the terms & conditions we would prefer. We look forward to their favourable consideration of these terms and conditions." Col has now confirmed that the lease has been signed, at a very attractive rate. And yes, Col needed to "forcefully lobby the State Government for over 9 months...". So, it won't be long before DIK can again accept goods for shipping to developing countries, such as hospital beds, computers, school uniforms, wheelchairs, just to name a few. Well done, and congratulations, Col & Team!
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Des La Rance OAM is recognized with Honorary Membership![]() Our sincere thanks go to Des, Daryl Sanderson OAM and their team of volunteers (too numerous to mention individually) at our Project Shed. And we mustn't forget Bob Harrison, currently recovering from surgery, who has been the Wheelchair Trust's Treasurer since its inception over 30 years ago. Last year's Rotary International theme was 'Making a Difference'. Did it? Does it? There is no doubt! This year's theme is 'Be the Inspiration'. Are those guys out at the shed living up to this? The word 'Absolutely' is often badly misused in a hyperbolic manner. But certainly not in this case!
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Geoff Croad discovers Europe's western most Rotary Sign![]() |
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Well worth reading in the latest RDU magazineOr, if you want to have quick link to the strategic plan yourself, click here to download the PDF directly from the Brisbane Rotary Club's website link to the PDF. |
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Gold Coast Ramble 2019 will go ahead!![]() Our Chief Organizer David Baguley (Rotary Club of Gold Coast) has put together a comprehensive outline of "what worked" and "what could be improved". If you would like details, please advise me - I'll email you a copy. Interestingly, despite the number of teams being down substantially on last year, the amount of funds (almost $7,000) was the same as last year. There is no doubt that we are "smiling in the dark" - we have primarily a marketing problem; not enough people know we exist. For example, a press release, which was issued two weeks before the event, was published by The Sun newspaper after the event...! Further, next year we won't have any major distractions, such as the Commonwealth Games and the District Conference. to have Rotarians overloaded with volunteer work. All in all, it was a superb day for all participants and organizers alike! Do you want to be on next year's organizing committee? Why not? This will become a major fundraising event in the future if we manage to get momentum going.
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Gold Coast Business Expo this weekIs your name on the list? PDG Darrell Brown has made arrangements with the organizers to allow us to participate in the Gold Coast Business Expo and raise considerable funds. What is expected of us:-
Please put these dates into your diary. A Roster sign-on sheet will be circulated shortly. |
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Vocational Exchange Philippines March 2019Nominations for Team Leader have officially closed, but if you are interested, Simon Brook might still be able to sneak you in. Nominations for team members remain open till 1st October 2018.
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Last week's Club AssemblyRegrettably, your Editor was "herding grandkids" in Melbourne and thus unable to be present. Based on feedback from President Joanne, this is a summary: 2018 Vision:
Just a minute was allocated to outline the principal Goal Areas of Rotary, and two minutes to discuss the Rotary Citations for 2018-19 (you can download it, see Download Section on the right). Updates from the Treasury, Club Admin, Club PR, Club Membership, The Rotary Foundation, Service Projects got a generous 5 minutes each... (in case you are new to this: Surfers Sunrise's Committee Meetings and Club Assemblies are always snappy and to the point!) Then, Jo introduced the "your turn" segment. Here is from her notes to the Editor: "We did two little exercises also,
All in all it was extremely useful and a good session in which everyone was very supportive. Best Club Assembly ever was used a couple of times so I was one very relieved President. Gus is organising 'Guess who's coming to dinner' for the end of October I think.
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Surfers Sunrise Wheelchairs make the national press![]() |
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Surfers Sunrise members at RYDAMario Fairlie, A
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Tony Unicomb, Booyah Project![]() Tony and Sam run a 17 week program for disadvantaged boys. The main problem is that they are from areas where they are subjected to extreme cases of Domestic Violence. The main problem is the lack of trust and their self esteem needs to be restored. The boys come with aggressive attitudes. Various schools send worse affected lads to the program and there is also a web site that advises boys whom to contact. The classes are run out of PCYC clubs at Nerang and Ormeau with the head office at Logan Home. The boys attend for 5 to 6 hours a day but are then taken home. Some of them don't wont to go home so they couch surf at some ones place. They are taught life skills and their main message is that change will only happen if they really want to change. Does it work? Most definitely! They were both very happy to report that on the last program 10 boys attended and 6 left with jobs and the other four returned to school. Want to support the cause? Click here. Photo, by Charles Thomasson: Youth Support Officer Sam Collins (left), President Jo Winwood, Senior Sgt Tony Unicomb |
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Last Wednesday's Guest Speaker: Julius Czerny![]() Julius decided he needed to do more. He wrote a book about it ('Dead One Day - Laughing The Next'). But the message needs to go to the kids, so it gets impregnated into their minds from an early age. He designed an award winning board game to achieve just that and he named it Super Lifesaver. Click on the link for more info. If you would like a copy for your kids or grand kids, contact the Webmaster - Surfers Sunrise will place a bulk order shortly. Photo above, by Charles Thomasson: Julius Czerny (right) with Franz Huber and President Jo Winwood. |
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Donations in Kind: 74 x 20' Containers in 12 months![]() ![]() But more importantly: Would this have made a huge difference to the people at those destinations? You bet. Goods ranged from clothing (including pallet loads of school uniforms) to hospital beds, scanners, baby cribs, books, school desks and chairs, crutches, computer equipment, just to name a few. And - give yourself a pat on the back, fellows and volunteers who work at our Project Shed: tons of our wheelchairs! (Picture above: Students in Kimbe, PNG at their newly installed desks. right: Book sorting at the former DIK warehouse. Photos by Ted Horsbrough) |
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Daryl Sanderson at Assisi Catholic College Fete![]() |
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Qantas Airways donates another 10,000 blankets![]() ![]() |
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The winners of the 2nd Gold Coast Ramble: Monster Mayhem!![]() A special Thank You must go to chief organizer David Baguley and his team from the Gold Coast and Surfers Sunrise Rotary Clubs, as well as to the Surfers Paradise Alliance people who provided massive assistance with setting up marquees, providing tables and chairs etc. Looking forward to next year's event! Photo above: the winning Monster Madness team, from left: Mohammed Meer, his charming wife Yasmin Omar-Meer and daughter Zara Meer, Rosie Rocco, Trinity McIntyre. More photos (by Karin Kolenko, RC of Hope Island) and Harry Ellis (RC of Gold Coast) in the Photo Album section on the right.
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Rotary's Tax Deductible Farmers Relief FundClick on the image above or click on to this link or go to our District Website.to access more details and to donate.
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Last week’s speaker: Doug Lipp – Horse Racing, King of Sports
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DG Partner Carol Brown answers 33 QuestionsHere is the second instalment of the series: District Governor Terry Browns wife Carol answers the 33 Questions. See Download section on the right!
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Daryl needs some helpers to unload 10,000 blankets![]() |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: DG Terry Brown![]() Last Wednesday, our club was honoured by the visit of DG Terry Brown and his charming wife Carol. Terry gave us a brief background about himself: Born in Bingara in North Western NSW, he may well be the only DG who started his professional life in Shearing! "Good money in those days..." he dryly remarked [I think it's still good money today! Ed.] But for the most part of his working life, he and Carol ran a business in Lismore, specializing in Irrigation. About 8 years ago, they sold the business to their nephew - it would appear that he took it from one strength to the next! ![]() Terry explained the concept behind RI President Barry Rassin's theme logo for 2018/19, 'Be the inspiration': the wave depicts Barry's home of the Bahamas, the orange and red beams coming in from the right depict the sunbeams, signifying the diversity of Rotary. Naturally, Terry's major goals are closely aligned with Rotary International's goals. One of the principal aims it to pay close attention to Membership Development. One of the methods is the formation of Satellite Clubs. Just recently, the (former) |
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This Wednesday: Doug Lipp on 'Horse Racing - King of Sports'![]() The 1st of August is considered the birthday of all horses. (It is also Swiss National Day, but that's another story!). Our very own Doug Lipp, himself an owner of race horses, will give us a presentation on this most glorified sport. We'll access a couple of very special races online, where Doug will explain what makes it so exciting! Note: The Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise will not accept responsibility for anyone who, in consequence of this presentation, has placed a bet on horses and lost... ;-) Price of $20.00 includes sumptuous buffet breakfast.
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DG Terry Brown answers the 33 QuestionsSee Download Section on the right - District Governor Terry Brown has answered the 33 Questions! Note: this is meant to be lighthearted... That means neither the DG nor your Editor will enter into any correspondence... ☺ Next week: DG's "better half" Carol Brown's answers.
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Peace Scholars meeting![]() But it was a Super Meeting: with some 10 Rotary Clubs from the Gold Coast participating. Michelle Helman from the USA gave the principal address, with Mohamed Sheik Yussuf from Kenya, Miku Lagarde from the Philippines and Isabella Beron from Columbia giving a brief outline of their experiences and visions for the future. In the words of one of the speakers, Isabella Beron from Columbia (which has been in a state of conflict for some 56 years): "Before coming to Australia, I have never lived anywhere where there is no conflict". Worldwide, some 1000 scholars have undergone serious training at various University Campuses throughout the world in Peace & Conflict Resolution. Will it make a difference? You bet it will, more than politician's grandstanding. Photo above (from left): Mohamed Sheikh Yussuf (Kenya), Mikaela Francine (Miku) D. Lagarde (Philippines), Michelle Helman (USA), Isabella Sinisterra Beron (Colombia). See more details about the presenters on the Download section (on the right) - Rotary-Peace-Fellowship-Di |
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Breakfast this Wednesday 25th July: at the Surfers Paradise Surf ClubFor breakfast this coming Wednesday 25th July we'll meet again at the Surfers Paradise Surf Club on the Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, where we recently had the Lutzy Award presentation. Meeting assembly at 07:00 am for 07:15 start. Again a special occasion: our newly baked District Governor Terry Brown and his partner Carol will visit, to outline to us their vision for the coming 12 months. Please join us to give them a hearty Surfers Sunrise welcome! Parking: regrettably, the free parking has not come through (yet), so street parking or Early Bird at the Paradise Centre, off Hanlan Street. Regarding the meal: we have noted your comments in relation to the food from a couple of weeks ago. So, this time we'll have an 'All you can eat' buffet breakfast, much more sumptuous too: eggs poached, eggs scrambled, baked beans, bacon, potato gems, sausages, pancakes, toasts, cereals, fresh fruit and house made yoghurt. See you there!
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Some more pictures from Alissa Lott, USAAlissa's granddad, Ross Augustine, forwarded Alissa's report from Minnesota, USA. Just like we have the Safari here in Australia, in the USA they obviously have something similar, touring the country and even all the way up to the Niagara Falls! They don't make big reports anymore - a picture tells a thousand words, so with six new pictures, this is equivalent to about 4 pages A4...☺ See Photo Album on the right. Ed. Hello Rotary! In my exchange district we just said goodbye to most of the current exchange students as their exchange was a July to July. Because of this, we had the big Rotary trip as an end of year thing although it was in the middle for me! This trip was amazing. It was great to spend time in some of the most incredible places in the United States with friends, both old ones and ones we became close to on the trip. We had so many new and fun experiences, here are some photos! As always, thank you so much for being my sponsor District I am having an amazing time on my exchange!
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Presentation of the 'Lutzy Award' 2018![]() The award, in honour of our Charter Member Keith Lutz who sadly passed away some five years ago, is determined in conjunction with the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. Ray Higgs and Chris Thurtell from Surfers Sunrise Rotary team up with David Orchid and a selection committee from the SLSC. It is awarded not necessarily to the top surfer, but to a young, community minded person who is dedicated to mentoring and supporting other members of the club. The photo above (by Charles Thomasson) shows the justifiably proud winner with (from left) Myles Giess, whose company Logan Steel Pty Ltd sponsored the paddle board, Andy Bell (Vice President of the Surfers Sunrise Rotary Club Inc), Trevor Hendy AM, Sebastian Robinson and Jan Lutz. |
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Last week's speaker: Jim Blackburn - Hydrogen Power![]() Jim, whose professional background is all things electrical and related to it, gave us a thorough insight into what undoubtedly will become the engine of the near future. In essence, the efficiency of a Hydrogen Fuel Cell is around 70% - compare this with an efficiency factor of about 20% of a Diesel engine - and many manufacturers have already fully developed Hydrogen Engines. At the forefront is a US based truck manufacturer, Nikola Motor Company (named after Nikola Tesla, who in 1888 patented the AC induction motor, no connection to Elon Musk's Tesla Motors). In the passenger vehicle market, many brands, including Hyundai, Lexus, Mercedes, Toyota, Nissan have already Hydrogen powered vehicles on the market or will have them available within a couple of years. So, how does it work? Sorry, whilst - so Jim Blackburn - "it is not overly complex", it is just a bit too complex to outline in a Rotary Club bulletin... See Jim's Power Point presentation in the Download Section on the right, where you find not only his principal points of discussion but also plenty of diagrams. In Australia, CSIRO is into it in a big way: they have invented a membrane which converts Ammonia to Hydrogen. Why would you do that? Because Ammonia is much more stable to store and is not highly combustible. Newcastle University is very advanced on Concentrated Solar Thermal (CST) energy, just to name a couple. Very much worth your while to read up on it a bit more. Start with downloading the Power Point!
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Gold Coast Ramble: can you help?As last year, this year's event will be in conjunction with the Rotary Clubs of Gold Coast, Griffith University and Surfers Sunrise. It is one of our major fundraising events for the year, so we need your help!. The event is only a bit over 2 weeks away - SUNDAY 5 AUGUST - starting earlier at 9am and finished by 1pm. Details on website: www.goldcoastramble.org.au How can you help?
We would love to get more checkpoint sponsors - if you have business contacts in the Main Beach or Surfers Paradise areas, we can locate a check point to their advantage. Please advise contact names and we will follow up. Please advise asap if and when you can assist. Cheers PP David Baguley |
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This Wednesday 11th July 2018 - The Lutzy AwardsNote: if you have not already done so: you must advise Franz that you are / are not attending - we need to provide the SLSC with exact numbers. |
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"Our" (now Past) District Governor hands over the collar![]() |
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Report from Alissa Lott - US Youth Exchange![]() Hi Rotary! Here’s another update on my time in America. We are officially on Summer Break! We have three months without school now, so I’ve got a lot of time to spend experiencing things to do in Minnesota and travel America on the rotary tour which I am super excited for. I just got back from a trip with my friends to the lake near where we live which was really fun, we camped out and went canoeing (we accidentally tipped the canoe- whoops!) and made a campfire. Soon my friends and I will go to one of the bigger theme parks in Minnesota, Valley Fair, and I’m going to see a musical called ‘Chicago’ in a theatre in Minneapolis too! Recently I had prom, and moved host families. Both went really well. My new host family is lovely and prom was super fun, I’m so glad I got to experience that while I was here! Thank you again for sponsoring me, I’m having an amazing time. I’ve attached some prom photos, and some photos from a Twins baseball game I went to! -Alissa Photo: On the way to the proms - For more photos check out the photo album on the right hand side! |
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Last week's speaker: Charles Thomasson - Instagram![]() Charles gave us a concise outline of a major new trend which has emerged in addition to Facebook and Twitter: Instagram. The purchase of the app by Facebook in 2012 for $US 1 Billion (!!) put it truly on the map. In essence: you take a photo with your mobile device and you can instantly upload it to Instagram, to be viewed by all your friends who follow you. Their friends in turn might then also become aware of it, and so on... Talking about news spreading like wild fire! Charles' Power Point presentation is uploaded in the Download Section on the right - it is quite self explanatory - just go over there and open it!
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Update on Changeover Luncheon 2018![]() For those of you who weren't there, here are the award winners for 2017/18: Rotarian of the Year: Jo Gorman Quiet Achiever Award: Mario Fairlie Fellowship Cup: Richard Smith Doug Waller Trophy: Franz Huber Further, the following members were recognized and honoured with the awarding of a Paul Harris Fellowships: Geoff Croad, Simon Brook, Gerald East, Jo Gorman, Mark Twyford, Angus Miller and Al Sirovs (who was absent, traveling overseas).
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This Wednesday 27th June: - different venue, pls advise attendanceThey'll put up a sumptuous buffet style breakfast - cost of $20.00 per person. Charles Thomasson will run a training style introduction to Social Media, in particular Instagram and Facebook, and how we can use this not just to communicate among each other, but also spread our message to potential members. See you there!
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Teacher's Pets (sitting in the front row...)![]() ![]() |
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Snippets of last week's meeting 060618Bob Harrison was on the door with Larry Murray as Chairman (for Graeme Isaacson) and Ian Mayberry was Sergeant. Apologies were received from Tania Laird, Jim Blackburn, Rosie Rocco, Daryl Sanderson, Des La Rance, Adrian Crowe and Fred Hamblen. President Andy Bell welcomed all members, Charter President and Honorary Member Bill Moir, our YE Students Gigi van Ligtenberg and Benedetta Marniga, Michael Gambaro (guest of Doug Lipp) and a special welcome to long absent Simon Brook ☺. Andy reminded us of the Changeover Luncheon on the 17th June. Note: you MUST BOOK. Online bookings are now open - see separate article. Fundraising Director Doug Lipp was all excited: we got our bond back from the City Council... And we still have some money left over from the Samoa Project: are there any invoices left to be paid? Mario Fairlie is in contact with Dr Joshua Francis, in conjunction with his friend Christina Carberry. Dr Francis was one of the Keynote Speakers at the recent District Conference, who specializes in health systems relating to diseases still prevalent in Timor Leste, such as Tuberculosis and Rheumatic Heart Disease. In conjunction with the Project Shed, we are also looking at making an alternative to the wheelchairs: Rickshaws for disabled children! DG Darrell Brown donated another $100 to the Wheelchair Trust, in celebration of the birth of another Grandson. Congratulations! Membership Director Paul Seymour has another potential member lined up, and finally, President Andy was congratulated on his birthday, with a raucous rendition of the Happy Birthday song... |
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Last week's Guest Speakers: Gigi and Benedetta![]() ![]() As is almost obligatory, of course it rained on one of the first nights in Sydney and - yes - the tent was flooded. Up at 5 am, wring out the wet gear, cold and hungry. Back on the bus, onwards... Inspecting the Opal diggings at Coober Pedy, riding camels, scuba diving... eating Wichetty Grubs (apparently they taste like egg?). Picture above: All the nationalities represented at Uluru; picture right: Gigi (front left) and Benedetta (second from right).
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Last week's Sergeant: Ian Mayberry |
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Changeover Luncheon 2018 - Have you booked yet?![]() Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise Changeover lunch- a time to celebrate our achievements in 2017/2018 and ring in a new Rotary year!! We'll meet at the new Kurrawa Surf Life Saving Club Beachfront Events and Functions Room Old Burleigh Road (beach side, opposite Charles Avenue), Broadbeach. Arrive from 12pm for 12:30 start Click on this link to book online: https://www.trybooking.com/VWMX |
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Last Sunday's District Training AssemblyMark Twyford also presented a lecture to incoming Club Secretaries. Your editor attended a lecture given by PDG Michael Irwing designed for incoming Club Administration Committee Chairmen. OK, so we have Andy Bell again in the Sergeant's position (fasten your seatbelts!). We'll have a new position on the Roster: Fellowship Officer, and unless somebody else challenges me for the Bulletin Editor / Webmaster job...
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Inspector Bruce KuhnOn the last day before the games started, our very own District Governor Darrell Brown was one of the Baton Bearers affected by this unauthorized protest which blocked Seaworld Drive. Your editor happened to be there too. My personal attitude to this sort of disruption is somewhat more teutonic and thus, in retrospect, I have nothing but great praise for the way the Police handled the issue in a way that indeed did NOT create the incident the sensationalist media were hoping for. 150 police personnel were on the ground. Their job was not just to maintain order, but to ensure that the Gold Coast would be projected as anything but violent. As those of us who also watched the evening news (or were at the Opening Ceremony) would know, the mob still kept agitating in the evening too. Bruce's team was right on the ball. There were no real ugly scenes. I dips me lid! So, what is the real story? Much regret to say, but you should have been there yourself. Since Rotary is on principle not political and is far more determined to promote peace than conflict, the details of Bruce's presentation will not be reported in this bulletin. Suffice to say that, upon your Editor's question of who finances the 'Stolenwealth Games' organization (yes, it is an organization. It costs money to fly people in from as far as Perth), Bruce's answer produced the proverbial "sharp intake of breath" as writers of conspiracy novels would describe it. The organization is related to the highest levels of a major parliamentary party. Except that this is not fiction. |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Rev Jon BrookRev John Brook, from St John's Crisis Centre, spoke about his organization which helps with Alcohol and Drugs. John was a psychiatric nurse and plays guitar to relax. Alcohol has the greatest impact with only 5% of people who attend AA remaining sober. He holds three narcotic meetings at the centre. Of the people who attempt to give up smoking only 17.5% make it. A pack of 25 cost $25 to $30 and a pack of 50 cost $50. By 2020 it will be over $40 for a pack of 25 - John's view is that the government is exploiting addiction. Homeless Australians – (there are 116,427) with an increase of over 40% in the last 5 years. The centre is required to advise the department of child safety if they find a child under 12 who is homeless. The largest causes of homelessness are domestic and family violence and family breakdown. The latter being the cause of youth homelessness. John said 40% of Australians live below the poverty line and the New Start Allowance has not increased in 25 years. There were many more statistics given by John. The Centre does Christmas lunches and hampers and our Club helps by providing toys. They also provide laundry, showers, toilets, shelter, and medical services and want to add legal assistance. He said that once a person gets a roof over their head half of their problem being either drugs or alcohol disappears. Click here to obtain more information on the St Johns Crisis Centre, which also provides contact details. |
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Surfers Sunrise now on Instagram!Our club's account is in the name of 'RotarySurfersSunrise'. So, how do you go about getting started? Dead easy: on your iPhone, go to the Apple Store, on an Android phone, go to Play Store. Search for Instagram and just follow the prompts to get and install it. Suggest you either use just your first name as a login - it will automatically assign a name and number combo, or use a shortened combo. Charles promised he'll hold a brief training session soon.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Andrew Rodgers![]() A member of the Rotary Club of Brisbane Centenary, Andrew Rodgers (picture above left with President Elect Jo Gorman) heard a guest speaker from the Foodbank organization at their club. Foodbank is Australia's largest non-profit distributor of food for the disadvantaged - they are a conduit between the industry's surplus food and the welfare sector. Andrew asked him how they get along for meat? "We never get beef!" was the answer. So Andrew and his club set out to organize 'Beef Bank'. The concept is really simple: farmers, auctioneers, abattoirs, butchers, transport companies etc support the project by donating or supplying beef and their services at the lowest cost. People donate money, participate in their annual Fun Run (coming up on 27th May 2018) and Beef Bank buys cattle. In the 10 years since its inception, they have supplied nearly 500,000 meals! The statistics get better year on year: in 2016 they delivered 48,000, in 2018 they aim for 150,000 meals! Is it needed? More than ever: Just in the last 12 months, Foodbank reports an increase in requests by Community Support groups of 11%. On average, one out of 30 children go hungry. One cow yields about 250 Kg of meat, which translates to about 2,500 meals, at 45 cents a serve. Beef Bank is a registered charity and any donations over $2.00 are fully tax deductible. Further, as is the case with most Rotary projects, there are no overheads since all directors and administration is done on an unpaid basis. Download a full run down of the Beef Bank concept from the download section on the right. |
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Last week's Guest Speakers: Sgt Lyndon O'Neill & Team![]() Lyndon had a well prepared PowerPoint presentation to outline his unit's work and purpose (you can download the full PPSX in the Download section on the top right). The unit has 5 key areas of focus:
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Snippets of last week's meeting 090518Geoff Croad was at the door, Simon Brook was Chairman and Tania Laird was Sergeant. We had apologies from Jim Blackburn, Gerald East, Chris Thurtell, Rosie Rocco and Ian Mayberry. President Andy Bell welcomed all members and guests Michael Gambaro (guest of Doug Lipp), Honorary Member George Keily and our guest speakers Sgt Lyndon O'Neill, together with Police Liaison Officers Saga Selsby and Jasyiya Kadir. For a demonstration of what Police Officers these days have hanging on their bodies, Andy called up Sgt Lyndon: Besides a heavy hand gun, there are handcuffs, pepper spray, Taser, Body Camera and a baton. Note: just in case you thought a small 30 cm long device couldn't hurt you very much: it extends to 3 feet in a flash! District Treasurer Doug Lipp confirmed that the accounts of the recently held District Conference are definitely in the black, with some $22,000 surplus going to Australian Rotary Health, ROMAC (Rotary Oceanic Medical Aid for Children) and the Griffith Uni's Malaria Vaccine Project, bringing its fundraising to within less than $100,000 of the target of $500,000 . Youth Director Tania Laird advised that we have now 4 candidates nominated for the RYPEN camp. President Elect Jo Gorman confirmed details about our upcoming Changeover Luncheon on Sunday 17th June at Kurrawa Surf Club (see separate article), and Secretary Mark Twyford confirmed that we now have an official lease for our Project Shed for (the maximum period) of 5 years. Honorary Member George Keily provided an update on his collection of used spectacles: some 25 bags with a total of 600 pairs. Further, the ongoing support of our Wheelchair Project by Apple Marketing is much appreciated: 6000 used stamps and over $7,000 have been collected over the past 12 months. |
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Planning for 2018-19![]() ![]() Since this bulletin is open to the public, not all the discussions can be reported. However, of major interest was a very promising fundraising project proposed by Mario Fairlie, which involves not only our club members but also our volunteers at the Project Shed... More as decisions are being made! See in the Download Section (top right) the full PowerPoint presentation of our President Elect - it all makes sense!
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Wheelchair Volunteers on ABC National News![]() Last Wednesday, Daryl received a parcel in the post with a nice letter written by David Handley AM, the founding director of Sculpture by the Sea (Bondi, NSW and Cottlesloe, WA)), together with a nice book, featuring his exhibitions. Dear Sir, I am writing to congratulate you and your fellow Rotarians on the tremendous initiative of the Wheelchair Trust I have heard on the ABC Television News last night. In response, I simply wanted to reach out to say well done and thank you. Our country needs more people like you. For my part I created these Sculpture Exhibitions within this book and I would like you to have a copy. Yours sincerely, David Handley. Well, what can we add to that? "Legend" comes to mind...
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RYPEN camp (for 14 - 16 years old) this monthRYPEN is for 14 - 16 year olds. The camp, over three days from 9am, Friday 25th May 2018 to 1pm, Sunday 27th May 2018 is designed to develop skills that will assist them in the transition to adulthood. Participants are involved in a variety of workshops and activities, which provide an opportunity for them to personally develop, gain self confidence, communication skills, challenge themselves, build friendships, and develop life skills. Do you know any potential member to nominate? Contact our Youth Services Director Tania Laird - applications close 10th May 2018.
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District 9640 volunteers earn over $220K on C'wealth Games![]() Photo: (from left) Adrian Crowe, DG Darrell Brown, Nick (team leader from Incognitus), Charles Thomasson, Peter Lyons from the PCYC of Toowoomba, Geoff Croad.
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Even casual meetings are good fun!![]() OK, so we didn't have a "formal" meeting immediately after the games. That doesn't mean it could not be interesting and lots of fun. Photo by Sergeant Tania Laird - note some very interesting visitors, by the looks of it, coming from the Commonwealth Games side. And Ross Augustine, grand dad of Alissa Lott (see her update above) was there too (peeking out between Richard Smith and Jo Gorman).
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DG Darrell Brown ran in the Baton Relay![]() |
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Our YE Student in the USA, Alissa![]() Hi Rotary! Here’s an update on my time in America. My first few months have been crazy busy, settling in to school and meeting people, and the time has flown by. I can’t believe it’s already been almost four months! Still, in that time I’ve done a lot. I love the snow, and I’ve learnt how to downhill ski which is super fun. Apparently this is the longest winter they’ve had in a while, even though it’s April and meant to be fall, we had a blizzard on the weekend and we’re getting more snow this Wednesday. Everyone here apart from me and my friend Cate, an exchange student from Spain that goes to my school is sick of it, but I think it looks magical! It looks like Christmas card weather. Here’s a photo of Cate and I in the snow! We were the only ones who actually wanted to go outside, and after the photos we took we ended up with snow all over (snowball fights are amazing)! |
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Daryl Sanderson OAM in the C'wealth Games Baton Relay![]() This morning (02/04/18) our Wheelchair Trust Chairman Daryl Sanderson OAM was running (OK, walking... ☺) in the Commonwealth Games Baton Relay at Runaway Bay. Here is a picture of Daryl in full colorful uniform, with some of the Surfers Sunrise members and Volunteers from the Project Shet cheering him on. 'On ya, Daryl!
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Inspirations - well, sort of... 040418I wish we could have state-of-the-art hospitals in every corner of the earth... but realistically, it's going to be a while before that can happen. But we can immunise every kid on earth, and we can prevent these diseases. It's only a matter of political will, a little bit of money and some systems to do it. Seth Berkley, Scientist and founder of the International AIDS vaccine initiative. Bread is like the Sun. It rises in the yeast and sets in the waist. |
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This Wednesday we'll meet at Bumbles CafeIn view of the Commonwealth Games coming into full swing, this coming Wednesday 04th April as well as the following Wednesday 11th April, we won't have a 'normal' meeting, but instead we'll simply have a social get together at the Bumbles Cafe, Cnr River Drive and Pine Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 Usual time - 07:00 am. No meeting fee, simply place your own order. |
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Charmaine Wheatley presents to the volunteers at The Shed![]() |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Nasser Kaviani - 'The wonderful work of the bee'![]() OK, we all know that central to the hive is the Queen. Then there are the Workers, who are the ones that collect the honey and the pollen. But did you know that the queen only mates with a Drone? Drones are the male bees and do nothing to help the Workers (which are infertile females). They congregate in a separate area high up outside the hive, waiting for virgin queens to visit for mating. Only a few get the opportunity to mate and, once their business is concluded, they simply die... The queen returns to the hive and from then on, the Drones are not permitted entry and usually die at the hive entrance on the ground. Development depends on the type: it takes just 16 days to make a Queen, 21 days to make a Worker and 24 days to make a Drone. Their life cycle is between 5 and 7 weeks. There is no school for young bees - they know their job from day one. There is so much interesting stuff... if I have to pick one, it would have to be the Waggle Dance. Its purpose is to communicate with other bees where nectar and pollen can be found. Rather than me trying to explain it, why don't you just click on this link where it is all explained in detail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7ijI-g4jHg The volume of honey produced is extraordinary: world wide, some 1,500,000 tonnes are produced, of which 462,000 tonnes is produced in China. Is the honey you buy in a supermarket the real thing? Well, not necessarily, so Nasser advised. Commercial honey sold in the supermarkets is heated to stop it crystallizing on the shelves. If this heating process is not managed well, all the mysterious goodies in the honey get wasted. So, raw and unheated honey is only the real one with all the goodies in it still intact. Nasser can supply you with just that! Simply contact the Editor and I'll forward your request on to him.
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Photo Album of our District Conference![]() There is also a massive album up on the District Website www.rotary9640.org - just go to Photo Gallery (at the top) and it's all there.
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"Our" District Conference![]() OK, time to allow our fingernails to start re-growing! After over a year of pre-preparations, dozens of committee meetings and hundreds, nay, thousands of email exchanges (just my small department of organizing the Registrations had well over 500 incoming mails outside the 580 registrations themselves!), we concluded the conference with a 'Paella in the Park' event. Regrettably, the weather was anything other than what one would visualize to go with Flamenco and Salsa dancers, but, hey! we still had a marvellous time out there. The wheelchair boys with help from all over erected the marquees, Graeme Isaacson was in several places at once, organizing the Paella chefs, the ice cream van and the Flamenco Guitar player... We had so many remarkable events, outrageously funny and inspiring keynote speakers, award presentations and good old fashioned Rotary Fellowship. So, why would I pick for this bulletin the only event that was truly affected by the rainy and blustery weather and where no grand speeches were held? Well, because there is no way I can report on the happenings of a three day conference in the space allowed in a club bulletin! Wearing my other hat as the DG's Newsletter Editor, I'll make a genuine effort to put together a reportage for the upcoming April edition of 'NINE Six FOUR Oh!' - it will be in your mailbox on or about 29th March. To Jo Gorman, her organizing committee and all the helpers and volunteers: you did a superb job! Thank you. Photo: Kate Kimmorley (RC of Gold Coast, who was an "inner cabinet" member of the committee), Tony Winwood (Jo's fiancee) is smiling - he might even again get to spend a few moments with his wife to be, District Conference Chairman Jo Gorman! And Des La Rance expresses what everyone thought about how successful the conference was! Bonza!
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RYPEN attendees and Rotary Peace Fellows![]() You missed seeing speakers, whom you as members have supported and who are fabulous ambassadors of Surfers Sunrise. Honestly, you had to be there! To mention a couple that are directly associated with Surfers Sunrise:
It was great to see a successful outcome, to what our Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise programs and support can achieve. Speaking of achievement, I’d like to extend my personal thanks to all my fellow Conference volunteers, as in working as a team, the best and most successful Conference (in my opinion), was achieved, and I was proud to be a small cog in that Rotary wheel. [Ray, among lots of other jobs, was in charge of program planning and execution. Just visualize: the Run Sheet, which details to the minute what will happen, exactly at what time, done by whom: 17 pages of spreadsheet, in small print with no big blank spaces! That is why the conference ran like clockwork. Ed.] |
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Gigi and Benedetta visit the Project Shed![]() |
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This Wednesday 07 March: Get ready for the District Conference!This is going to be one of the biggest District Conferences ever. Chief Jo Gorman has been working her fingers to the bone. We have well over 500 registrations. But, together with the RC of Gold Coast, our club is hosting the conference. We provide the organization, the personnel, the know how, a lot of the volunteers. YOU MUST BE THERE! All leave has been cancelled until the 12th March. But then, on the 14th, we have one of the most exciting Guest Speakers - a genuine one-off: Dr Dainis Zirovs (Al Sirov's nephew) will speak on the transformation of his native Latvia from Russian control to Western Democracy. See Upcoming Events section on the left.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Anna Vlamis - Love BitesLove Bites? Last time I looked, this meant anything but Domestic Violence! I recall, (some 50 years ago) one of my mates one day rolling up to work with one of them planted firmly on his upper neck. He suffered ribald and rude comments for the better part of a week... Now, to the more serious issue of domestic violence: the statistics are... well, simply unbelievable: one in three females are suffering from Domestic Violence (DV) at some stage in their lives, one in 5 males... Unbelievable, so I jumped on Wikipedia, where it said just that. OK, perhaps a more sober place then: The Australian Bureau of Statistics. Officially, "no single agreed definition of Domestic Violence" it says. There they call it FDV (Family and Domestic Violence). The ABS statistics for FDV, say that in just one year (2015) FDV related assaults range from 177 victims per 100,000 population in the ACT to a staggering 1,668 victims per 100,000 in the Northern Territory. Click on the link to read the whole report. Warning: the homicide statistics relating to DV are no less scary. Based on this very uncomfortable reality, the summary which Anne provided me for this bulletin (printed below) is rather tame and benign. That does not mean it is less disturbing, just not as stark as the raw statistics are. Ed. The Love Bites Reference Group began on the Gold Coast 2013 as a collaborative approach in managing the delivering of the program using a model to include best practice given the sensitive content. ![]() |
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Pride of Workmanship Awards 2018Last Wednesday, we presented a Pride of Workmanship Award to 6 well deserving people. It was also a great social night, with the awardees and their partners joining with our club members and their partners. Richard Smith, in charge of Vocational Service at our club, presented the awards as follows:
You can find the full citations in the Download Section on the right. Photo below, from left: Richard Smith (convener), Mark Twyford, Graeme Isaacson, Dee Johnston, Jody Murray, Joel Burns, Gerald East, Ken Hildegren, Dr Stephen Coulson, Franz Huber, Janusz Radzki. ![]() |
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Charmaine Wheatley to present at The Shed 24. March |
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First bike for future sports star![]() |
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Benvenuto, Benadetta Marniga!![]() |
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Last week's speaker: Col Laurenson - Adani LogisticsWhat about distances? Well, Brisbane to Sydney is 921 Km. Brisbane to the Carmichael site is 1237 Km! Even from Abbot Point, it is 457 Km. And it is not all flat either: If you drive out there, you'll come across flood signs: not 1 metre - 3 metres! And one needs to consider just how to get the equipment required out there: The Burdekin Bridge has a maximum dimension of 6.1 m high and 7.41 m wide. Problem is that some of the gear is 10 metres wide. And so it goes on... Adani will have an airport for fly-in/fly-out workers. 12 Km away, there will be a village with 2, 000 beds for construction workers... traffic management: 1 truck arriving for unloading every 9 minutes. We have not yet started to discuss projected peak fuel requirement of some 300 million litres... And just how would Col Laurenson know about all this? Well, that was his job at Adani. One never ceases to be amazed at the Rotarians one meets at Surfers Sunrise. Col's PowerPoint is uploaded - see Download Section on the right - 2 files.
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Pride of Workmanship Award EveningSurfers Paradise RSL Club 9 Beach Road Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 (you can park in the Bruce Bishop Car Park across the road) 6:30 pm for 7:00 pm start $20.00 per person, includes dinner |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Charmaine Wheatley![]() Note: Charmaine will visit the Project Shed on the morning of Saturday 7th April 2018. We'll make every effort to have a working projector ready! ☺
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Two Baton Bearers from Surfers SunriseDo you know that Surfers Sunrise has not just one, but two Baton Bearers running at the upcoming Commonwealth Games? Here are the details: Date: 04/04/2018 Start time: 12:28 pm Start Location: 200 meters after intersection of Doug Jennings Park Access Road on Seaworld Drive, Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia ![]() End Location: 400 metres further on. Daryl Sanderson OAM: Date: 02/04/2018 Start time: 10:01 am Start Location: 172 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay 4216 End Location: 153 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay 4216 See you on location to give them enthusiastic applause!
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AB Paterson College students to make wheelchairs![]() (Photo provided by Al Sirovs)
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Last week's speaker: Charles Thomasson, Man behind the Badge![]() Initially he worked in Brisbane, but then spread his wings to go to London. His employer for the first three months, a major Hairdressing organization, happened to also employ a highly attractive young lady named Angela... Yes, you guessed it, she became his wife in 2008. They married in Angela's home country, Wales. They now have two lovely daughters aged 5 and 7. Charles moved quickly over to Finance, and upon return to Australia, to Stockbroking. His company, Wilsons Advisory, is a major national Financial Adviser organization. As mentioned, Charles has just taken over the local franchise. And for leisure? Cricket, Rugby and Golf. His current handicap of 18 still has "room for improvement". And of course, regular trips to the family's holiday house on Stradbroke Island. |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Greg Beard, Mater FoundationThe story of Mater starts with a vision that remains as current today as it was in 1861 when the first group of Sisters of Mercy arrived on Brisbane and set up a 20 bed private hospital in North Quay. Check out this online video. This was the start of a tradition of providing compassionate care for the sick and the needy – which eventually led to the establishment of seven hospitals treating over 500,000 patients each year. Mater in the Community provides an opportunity to learn more about Mater today. Just a few salient facts: Mater Mothers Hospitals deliver more than ten thousand babies each year and providing specialist care for more than 2000 premature and seriously ill babies! Not just 'traditional' Hospitals: there is a Neurosciences Centre of Excellence including a Stroke Unit and an Epilepsy Unit, the Mater Young Adults Health Centre Brisbane for people aged 15 - 24. They provide education, they tackle homelessness and refugee health. Did you know that Mater had the first Radiation Room in Queensland? Today, the technology certainly has changed: Micro Surgery, allowing operations which just a few years ago would have involved hospitalization for days and weeks, completed in a short time with keyhole surgery and the patient is on the way home in as little as 4 hours...
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Colonel Sanderson addresses the troops![]() |
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Last week's speaker: Franz Huber - Imagine: No electricity![]() But coming back to EMP: is it fiction? I went digging a bit more and found numerous scientific references which clearly confirm what the underlying theme is all about. I give it to you in a nutshell: Should such an attack (or multiple attacks) occur, it will instantly (within seconds) totally obliterate everything that is electrical, electronic. Transformers will simply melt. All of them. Any device with electronics in them (transmission and communication equipment, motor vehicles, aircraft, ships, electric motors, just to list a few) are irretrievably damaged. It will not affect living organisms, e.g. nobody |
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Check out Col Laurensen's answers to 33 Questions!Freshly uploaded into the Download Section on the right: Col Laurensen answers the 33 Questions. [Gina Lollobrigida? Well before my time! NOT.] See if you can guess which one of his answers to Question 33 is correct?
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Surfers Sunrise gains international recognition![]() |
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RI President Elect Barry Rassin’s Theme for 2018/19
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Last week's Guest Speaker: our new Exchange Student Gigi![]() Your editor has patiently been waiting all week to receive Gigi's report, but... Here is a photo provided by her host, our District Youth Exchange Chairman Chris Thurtell, who organized her a part time job at Seaworld.
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A couple of attractive young ladies walked into a shed![]() (Photo by Col Laurensen)
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Last Wednesday we had a social get together at Bumbles![]() |
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Kerrie Brown's cushion goes to the Miller clan![]() Congratulations!
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Ross Eastgate OAM"Defence of the olden days was different to what it is today", Ross explained. "After Vietnam, we enjoyed a 20 years of 'Great Peace' - Australia didn't go anywhere". Then came the various engagements: Namibia, Cambodia, PNG, Bouganville, East Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan. For the last 20 years, and in particular post 9/11, there have been constant overseas operations. "The current Australian soldier is the most experienced in history", Ross explained. Whilst today's soldiers are all volunteers, |
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Our YE Student in Germany scores high mark in German |
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Col Laurensen gets PHF +2Picture below shows Col flanked by PDG George Grant (District 9600) and PP Ted Horsbrugh (RC of Toowong). More pictures from this link: 2017-12-14 DIK Col's PHF ![]() |
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Samoa Project featured in Murdoch pressRead the full transcript, click on the article in the Download Section. It includes a correction - the reporter got the name of the Rotary Club wrong...
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RYDA recognizes Rotary for our services![]() |
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RYDA recognizes Rotary for our services![]() |
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Meet Alissa Lott, our 2018 Youth Exchange Student to the USAAt last Wednesday's meeting, Matt Lott introduced his charming daughter Alissa to the club. Alissa has been selected to represent our club in Janesville, Minnesota for the 12 months starting end of January 2018. She is (was) a student at Emmanuel College, and naturally, she is very much looking forward to the experience. "To be given the chance to live in another country and culture and We are very much looking forward to receiving your reports, and don't forget, your Surfers Sunrise Bulletin Editor is always looking for quality material to publish! So, let's hear about it! ☺
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Snippets of last week's meeting 061217Rosie McIntyre was at the door, Ian Mayberry was Chairman and Tania Laird was Sergeant. We had apologies from Des La Rance, Simon Brook, Gerald East, Mario Fairlie, Charles Thomasson, Daryl Sanderson, Jo Gorman and Darrell Brown. President Andy Bell welcomed all members and our guests Alissa Lott and her father Matt, as well as our Guest Speaker, Racing Driver Warren Luff. Andy emphasised that members should visit our Project Shed more frequently, even if only for a cuppa at morning tea time. Our volunteers there, now officially 'Associate Members', much welcome members of the club visiting. He also confirmed that the Christmas Breakfast will be at the Sheraton Mirage on 20th December 2017. More details, including cost, to be advised. Franz Huber briefly outlined his experiences at the RYTS (Rotary Youth Transition Seminar) dinner on Tuesday night. In brief: unbridled energy, very obviously huge fun for all participants... and ... very loud!! One wonders whether the fact that the Tyalgum Ridge Retreat is out of Mobile Phone Range and thus there is no texting, no mobiles hanging on everyone's ears has anything to do with it? [I'm betraying my age, I know... Ed.] See next month's edition of the District Newsletter for a full write up. Col Laurensen referred to the article in last week's bulletin regarding George Keily and Heather Barnard's presentation for their efforts in collecting pre-loved spectacles for DIK (Donations in Kind). Is DIK one of the best kept secrets in Rotary? Secretary Mark Twyford briefly referred to the renewal of the lease for our Project Shed with the Gold Coast City Council: Originally, we were expecting a 15 year lease, however, the formal documents still only show a 5 year lease. This is due to a specific policy ruling at the Council in relation to the control of Obnoxious Gases which does not permit a longer lease. However, we understand that renewal after 5 years should be a foregone conclusion provided the premises are used in the way it is intended. Project Director Rosie McIntyre has been involved with the Mudgeeraba Special School: in order to demonstrate the practical aspects of Engineering, the school uses our wheelchairs as a good example who innovative design can lead to something useful being created from what other people may consider to be rubbish. Rosie also briefly referred to the Awards ceremony at the Coomera College and retrospectively presented Doug Lipp with a Certificate of Appreciation. All the certificates were designed and printed by Neil Thurlow and his design elves at Accent Print & Copy. Ian Mayberry will again invest the 'Coffee Club' money (about $400) into presents to be given to the St John's Drop-in Centre. As we have done in the past, members are encouraged to also provide some presents. Please DO NOT WRAP them. Chris Thurtell, in his capacity as the District Chair of Youth Exchange, introduced Alissa Lott and her dad Matt. See separate article on Alissa's presentation. He has received another report from our outbound student in Germany, Kieran Power - the year is almost gone! He'll be back about the same time when Alissa will head off to the USA. They recently had a "whole country exchange" when the incoming and outgoing students were matched by country of origin/destination. |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Nina Smythe - Shen Yun![]() Well, in 2006, the Shen Yun dance company was founded in New York, by practitioners of the Falun Gong spiritual discipline, with the aim to revive the essence of 5000 years of Chinese Culture, which it states "had been almost destroyed by the Communist Party Government". It is based on three dynamics: Form, Technique and Bearing. Approximately 40 dancers of mostly Chinese ethnicity (there are one or two western dancers in Shen Yun) perform some 20 vignettes of classical Chinese dance - which has three basic components, form, technique and bearing - as well as ethnic and folk dances eg Tibetan and Mongolian ethnic dances. Shen Yun's overarching concept is Harmony: The accompanying Philharmonic Orchestra bridges the musical system of two cultures. It includes several traditional Chinese instruments, such as the Pipa: four-stringed, it looks a bit like a mandolin (but that would be where the similarity ends...) Shen Yun combines the traditional with modern technology: the background combines traditional landscape painting with digital animation. Add to that the dazzling display of some 400 costumes and hairpieces! No need to visualize: click here to watch a video. Nina has offered a very special treat to members of our Rotary Club: for every two tickets purchased, you will also receive a free program book - she'll make arrangements with the Merchandise Desk at the Gold Coast Arts Centre - just send her an email with a copy of the tickets you purchased. Psst: keep this under your hat! OK, I admit to a fondness of oriental art, but regardless, I wouldn't miss that show for quids! Ed. |
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Heather Barnard recognized - 1000's of spectacles collectedIt all started off with Heather's father, Ken Ince, a Rotarian from Ashmore Rotary Club. He had the idea of collecting used spectacles from optometrists throughout the Gold Coast, to be forwarded to Donations in Kind (DIK), from where they could be despatched to developing countries. Ken is now 97 and thus not as mobile anymore as he used to be... His daughter Heather picked up the baton. She has since collected thousands of spectacles from Optometrists from Ashmore to Pacific Fair. Yes, thousands - approximately 2000 every two months, our Honorary Member George Keily (left in picture below) reports. 'People of Action'? You bet! Last Saturday, President Andy Bell presented Heather with a Certificate of Appreciation for her services at The Shed. Congratulations, well done! ![]() |
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Recognition for our School for Samoa teamLast Sunday, Rosie McIntyre (first on left sitting on the bench) organized a 'Samoa Project Appreciation Ceremony' for the people who were instrumental in organizing, constructing and delivering the recently completed School for Samoa project. Attended by about 50 people, it was held at the Upper Coomera State College, one of the five schools who were involved in both fundraising as well as personally working on the project (the others are Helensvale High School, Coomera State High School, Pacific Pines State High School and the Pimpama State Secondary College). In addition to a number of our club's Rotarians and Volunteers, there were also teachers and students of the college there. Many of these had personal involvement on-site to erect the pre-manufactured building in conjunction with the Samoa Victims Support Group in Apia, Samoa. 'On ya! Give yourself all a pat on the back! ![]() |
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Another clean-up working bee at The ShedLast Friday, starting at 07:00 am, we had another working bee at The Shed to clean up (and get rid of) some of the stuff that had accumulated over the past decade or so... Good news for girls: after removing half a ton of junk from the Ladies' Toilet, you have absolutely no excuse now to stay away! ☺ Guess it's a sign of old age: even though the pubs would have been open by the time we finished, we all opted for a cup of coffee... Picture below, from left: Geoff Croad, Col Laurensen, Andy Bell, Des La Rance, Robbie Bell, Angus Miller and Larry Murray. ![]() |
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Last week's speaker: Andy Bell: Home Security
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Rotary: You're in a good place |
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Melbourne Cup Party 2017![]() Photos by Jo Gorman. And now in my dream it all comes back: Last stanza in Banjo Paterson's 'A Dream of the Melbourne Cup' Click here to read the full poem. |
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This coming Wednesday: Jane Rushton - Accepting Change
Jane, a successful Author, 'Mind Tricks' Coach, Spiritual Healer, Pilates and Gym Instructor, as well as an International Netball Festival coordinator and Director of two companies, has been an entrepreneur since the age of twenty-four. Jane’s has been inspired to share her vision, started over twenty years ago when she began her search to find direction in life to uncover her passions and work through life’s challenges. Jane 's say's "Life's a Roller-coaster it's good to learn how to reduce the dips in life". She has studied so many modalities in Personal Development, Natural Therapies, exercise and rehabilitation she has lost count. NOTE: New venue: Pavilion, Southport Surf Life Saving Club. Arrive early enough to order breakfast before meeting starts at 07:15 sharp. |
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This Wednesday: social brekkie at new venueThis is the location: Pavilion Restaurant Southport Surf Live Saving Club Macarthur Parade, Main Beach QLD 4215 See you there at 07:00 am! |
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Last Week's speaker: Bob Berryman - Race Caller"Well, in my days if one lived near a race course, he would either own a horse or he would ride one..." Bob quipped. When he was about 15 or so, he was too heavy to ride. Owning a horse was not quite on the cards either, so he had to think of something else. Well, Bob ended up becoming one of the most renowned Race Callers this nation has seen [or should I say "heard"?]. Over half an hour, Bob regaled us with one light hearted story after another of life "in the olden days" on Melbourne's race tracks and in their communities. You know the style: "There we were on our way home from a Calcutta night, we found a loose horse on Racecourse Drive..." Stories of what may be perceived as "insider jobs". The enormous change of - well - everything over the past 5 decades, from the size of the horses (they used to be as high as 17 hands) to security on the stables. But the classic entertainment would be Bob's calling of 'The Greatest Melbourne Cup of ever run'. The field includes 20 horses from Carbine (1890) to Phar Lap (1930) to Think Big (1974/75) and Makybe Diva (2003/04/05)... [Your editor has been searching all over the Internet for a recording - unsuccessful, I'm afraid. You should have been there!]
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This Sunday: Q&A Session with DG Darrell Brown![]() |
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Col Laurensen's Donations in Kind wins major awardCongratulations, Col!
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BBQ at Southport Library![]() Your help is and was greatly appreciated to one and all.
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Last week's speaker: Franz Huber - Rotary: People of ActionEnter Rotary's new Public Relations Campaign, based on the slogan "Rotary: People of Action". I had the pleasure of |
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Very successful Polio Plus collectionI had to go into recovery mode after three hectic days devoted to the delights of The Rotary Foundation Fundraising Campaign. This campaign required twenty-four two hour shifts manned by two people per shift, a total of forty-six man hours and two woman hours. I would like to extend my thanks on behalf of the Foundation to all who participated. Participants (in alphabetical order) were...(multiple shifts are in brackets) Andy Bell, Darrell Brown, Geoff Croad (4), Adrian Crowe, Gerald East (6), Mario Fairlie (2), Jo Gorman, Bob Harrison, Ray Higgs, Franz Huber (2), Col Laurenson, Doug Lipp, Angus Miller, Daryl Sanderson. I would also like to thank Geoff Croad for his assistance during my absence with distributing the roster and collecting the items needed from the Project Shed and returning them afterwards. Also thanks to Mario Fairlie for donating two new stands for the banners, and to Neil Thurlow for printing the two new banners at the correct shopping centre height of 1.5 metres. None of these things just happen! Donations collected this year totalled $1149-20. This was better than last year which was conducted a month later. Picture above right: District Governor Darrell Brown with a happy mum and daughter donor to the cause. Since the inception of Rotary's Polio Plus campaign in 1985, Rotary has invested over $US 1.7 Billion and countless volunteer hours to immunize over 1.2 Billion children in 122 countries. With the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation matching every Rotary dollar with two of theirs, our collection efforts will result in the vaccination of about 5,700 children. So far this year, only a total of 11 cases have been reported: 6 in Afghanistan and 5 in Pakistan. Nigeria, which reported 4 cases in 2016, has remained free of Polio. Click on this link for details.
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Meet our newest Surfers Sunrise Member: Charles Thomasson![]() Picture above: Charles (right) with DG Darrell Brown (centre) and President Andy Bell (left)
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Lift the Lid - Hat Day this WednesdayAustralian Rotary Health every year finances various research projects into Mental Health. Remember, one of DG Darrell Brown's major goals is to raise $33,000 to sponsor a PhD Scholarship in Mental Health. Darrell also emphasized that we should support Rotary's own projects - well, this certainly meets the guidelines!
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The school on Samoa has been completed![]() |
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Megan Blake: Life in the Fast Lane"So, what's changed since Mad Men?" she asked: Well, in the 'olden days', we had principally two sections: Creative and Media. Today, we have the above, plus PR, Auditor, Experiential (no, not a typo: it means 'Events' etc), Digital, Data Agency, Customer Experience, Outdoor, direct mail, online, mobile, podcasts, Video on Demand, sponsorships, social ads, search ads, affiliates... Get the drift? Megan took us through a comprehensive set of steps of planning and executing a marketing campaign. From 'Product Insight' (e.g. Saloon market is declining, |
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Samoa School for abused children is almost builtAs President Andy's message in this week's bulletin states, the construction of the Samoa School is ahead of schedule! Below is a picture by Al Sirovs (left), Tanya and Mark Twyford (3rd and 4th from left. Mark, without doubt, will win this year's 'Best Dressed Male' award.), and isn't the lady with the 'Breakfast at Tiffany' sunglasses our very own Rosie McIntyre? There are more photos on Al's Facebook page. ![]() Your news starved editor is looking forward to receiving an updated report!
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Peter Baruch: A life worth lived - stage 2 |
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DG Darrell Brown adds another stone to his PHFI take the liberty to hammer the incorrect view (and I know that our DG will join me), that a Paul Harris Fellowship Award (PHF)"cannot be bought", but can only be bestowed on a member, because "it is designed to be awarded for a member's services to Rotary". Certainly, it is indeed a superb recognition when a club (or other Rotary body) bestows a PHF on a member. My comment here certainly is not intended not diminish this type of recognition in any way. However, the very original purpose of a PHF is, and has always been, to make a donation to the foundation. Over the last 100 years (yes, TRF was founded in 1917), the organization has become one of the biggest non-government charities of the world. It also is one of the very few major charities which have only very negligible overheads - according to Charity Navigator, an independent organization that rates charities, TRF has an overall score of 97.87 out of 100, which gives it the coveted 4 Star rating. So, if you are worried that a substantial portion of your donation ends up in graft or director's salaries, The Rotary Foundation is your answer! Ed. See Rotary Foundation Director Gerald East for more details.
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Peter Baruch: A life saved - a life worth livedPeter will present the second segment of his story on 6th September. |
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Samoa School packed up and on the way![]() Now, my fellow club members are not exactly communicative, so this comes from our club's Facebook page. Project chief Des La Rance wondering how the rest of the stuff will fit! Click on the link for more pictures. Yes, with some grunting, pushing and shoving, it was all managed.
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Barry Rassin elected to be Rotary International President 2018/19![]() Rassin’s nomination follows Sam F. Owori’s death in July, just two weeks into his term as Rotary International president-elect. For the full story, click here.
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Remember when you were inducted into Rotary?August is Membership Development and Extentions Month. Can you remember when you were inducted into Rotary? Have you considered why you were proposed by your sponsor? What made you to decide to join? Did you feel a sense of pride, of achievement, to be invited to join an organization of the highest international repute? Did you feel that your sponsor did “The right thing” by considering you to be potentially a good Rotarian ? Did you feel a little bit overwhelmed, sort of “am I really up to this?” You did? “The more hands Rotary has, the better and more effectively the ideal of service will be achieved. Hence the importance of membership.” These words, spoken by one of Japans foremost Rotarians, Kanejiro Matsumoto put the point very straight. I put it even straighter: If we are to spread the workload of running this club, if we are to achieve our aims on the local scene (Youth Service, Vocational Service, Community Service), if we are to pull our weight on the International cart, we have an obligation to not only maintain, but increase membership. Whom have you asked lately to come along to one of our meetings? |
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"Pre-loved" bicycles requisition form |
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School for Samoa pulled down. And...![]() |
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Record Sausage Sizzle at Bunnings last Sunday |
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School for Samoa featured on Channel 7 NewsThe school is almost completed and just about ready to be disassembled and stacked into a container, to be shipped to Apia, Samoa, where it will be re-constructed in September. Our team from Surfers Sunrise will be joined by a group of students from various schools from the Northern Collegiate, who have worked hard to raise funds - yes, the conventional way: movie nights, sausage sizzles... Next time somebody gives you a whinge along the lines of "today's youth just aren't the same anymore", point them to this link: https://www.facebook.com/NCprojectsamoa/ |
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Surfers Sunrise sponsors three RYPEN awardees![]() Jaali Hendy joined with the Lutzy Award winner Lucy Thorburn and last year's Lutzy winner Jessica Webber (picture left). [must be something in the water over there... ☺ Ed.] RYPEN is a weekend experience in the Gold Coast Hinterland for youth aged 14-16 years, designed to develop skills that |
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Lucy Thorburn: winner of 'The Lutzy'![]() At last Wednesday's meeting, Lucy Thorburn was presented with the annual "Lutzy" Award. No, it is not some plain certificate or plaque - it is a fully fledged rescue/paddle board! The award, in honour of our Charter Member Keith Lutz who sadly passed away some four years ago, is determined in conjunction with the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. Ray Higgs and Chris Thurtell from Surfers Sunrise team up with David Orchid and a selection committee from |
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Changeover Luncheon with refreshingly "unboring" speeches![]() Now, anyone who has been in Rotary for longer than, say, three years, would have at some stage been subjected to one of those "oh groan' speeches - you know, where they have a lengthy sermon, preaching to the converted. Not so at Surfers Sunrise! Special congratulations go to to the winners of the major Club Awards:
Congratulations! In the Download Section on the right, you will find both the Changeover Report 2016-17 (President, Treasurer and individual director's report of the past 12 months) as well as a summary of what happened at the Changeover Luncheon. It contains transcripts of Jo Gorman's toast to Rotary International and DG Darrell Brown's reply. Further on, in the Photo Album Section, you'll find some snapshots of "Who's Who" in Surfers Sunrise.
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Meet our new President, Andy BellBorn in Scotland, moved to New Zealand as a child. Served an electrical apprenticeship with the NZ Ministry of Defence before joining the Police. During the time in the Police, I worked for 3 years undercover, predominantly in Narcotics, then went on to Major Crime Squad, Armed Robbery and Homicide. Was seconded to Victoria Police for 6 months, to assist in the investigation of the murder of 2 NZ citizens. After completion of the investigation, returned to NZ to continue working in Drug Squad. In 1980, I relocated permanently to Melbourne, Australia, where I worked in Senior Management positions for a large international security company. I then moved to Sydney, working in various senior roles within the security industry including chairing a number of Government and semi Government bodies associated with education and training. During this time, I wrote and had published an autobiography relating to my undercover Police work. 8 years ago, I moved to the Gold Coast and continued my work within the security industry. I am now retired and working on my second book. For some light reading: download Andy's answer to '33 Questions' - see download section on the right! |
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School for Samoa is taking shapeIt all starts coming together... From last Saturday's working bee at The Shed: chief designer and construction boss Des La Rance is re-checking the measurements. (Photo by Bob Harrison)
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Congratulations: Daryl Sanderson OAM![]() ![]() |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Dr Danielle Stanisic - Malaria vaccineSo, what is the situation? Well, Malaria is not a single item: there are six species of Malaria. Dr Danielle is working on the two most common ones: Plasmodium Falciparum (approx 75%) and Plasmodium Vivax (approx 20%). The virus is Now, if your Editor had only a tenth of the brain of Dr Danielle, you would find a detailed explanation of her discourse. However... A picture tells a thousand words: see on the right just one of her slides to outline the enormous complexity of the task... Dr Danielle expressed her admiration for Rotary: she is a member of the recently formed Rotary Satellite Club of Griffith University. At a meeting last year, she explained the need to purchase a special magnet (I think the process is called Magnetic Fractionation - Ed.), costing $10,000. Shortly afterwards, the unit was financed.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Sid Cramp MPBefore entering politics, Sid had worked for 14 years for the Queensland Ambulance Service. At the time of his switch to politics, he was Acting Chief Inspector. And in case you thought that conservative politicians are the proverbial "Tories", e.g. "us against them", I've got news for you: Being very unhappy with the (at the time) incumbent Union, Sid actually organized a new Ambulance Officer's Union, the Emergency Medical Services Protection Association. (They rather want to be known as a 'Professional Association' than a Union). This body now has some 1100 members in Queensland. "In 5 years I never lost a case, because we always worked with the management to resolve an issue" he said. Feel like you can't get access to your local member? Well, Sid challenges that 'tarring all with the same brush' concept. "My office is like Central Station", he quipped. "Yet, only 7% of my constituents actually come to my office at some stage. My challenge is to meet the other 93%". So, he engages the community in meetings, heavily works towards preventing Domestic Violence and Bullying in Schools. "Did you know that 95% of Domestic Violence victims are women and children?". It is just one of his many areas of active engagement. And, as an active member of Rotary (Nerang Rotary Club), he thus practices the theme 'Rotary Serves Humanity' on a daily basis. |
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Fun with Rotary - Conference 2018 at SeaworldA couple of weeks ago, Jo Gorman (who is our Conference Chief), released the promo video for next year's District Conference at Seaworld. Holy Moley! Talking about removing even the last shred of 'stuffiness' from Rotary's image! The theme: 'Fun with Rotary'It is on the District 9640 Website: Just click on this link: http://rotary9640.org/Page/district-conference-2018 Registration will open on 1st June 2017 (link in next week's bulletin), so you have plenty of time to get your name in. There is also an updated Organization Chart - see Download Section on the right. Are you on Jo's team? If not, better tell her now! |
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Have you booked for Darrell's DG Changeover yet?To register, click on this safe link: You can download the flyer from the Download Section on the right. |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Cal Toft - Prosthetic Hands![]() He spoke on two projects - the first being water wells in Cambodia. It all started when he was on holiday there and the cab driver (Chan) showed them a waterhole he had built for 4100 for a village. Cal came back with the idea and together with a group of Clubs, has built some 32 wells over the last 4 years. These wells were built for villages, schools and even a maternity hospital which prior to that, had no clean water. They are relatively easy to construct as the water table is quite high. For $100, a village or facility can have lovey fresh water. The project has become a RAWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service) Project. In one example, once fresh water was available, the village built a school and Rotarians helped sponsor teachers for the School - $100 per month for a teacher! $2400 for 2 teachers for 12 months - changes lives forever. ![]() The second project: Prosthetic Hands for the thousands of victims of land mine explosions of the post Pol Pot era. Often children who are sent out to collect firewood and have their arms and hands blown off by unexploded devices. In the first year they fitted 203 and in 2014 they fitted 214. Cal told of a number of instances where victims had been spotted by the Rotarian volunteers - in cafes and on streets and they had been approached an fitted on the spot. This completely transforms lives. Build a hand. Change a life. The prostethic hands are imported from the US in packs of 10 and are assembled by Rotarians. Cost of a pack is $5,000. Cal and the team have also taught the local University Rehab Centre to fit hands for people. He and Beth were joined by 13 Rotarians on their last trip.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Margaret Smith![]() ![]() Born in New Zealand, she landed in Darwin in the 1980, answering an advertisement to look after a Quadriplegic, a teenager not just quadriplegic, but also suffering an intellectual disability. She wasn't really prepared, she didn't understand the "personal care" aspect till then, except that she herself had suffered a personal breakdown. Well, that person in a wheelchair may have been severely disabled, but that didn't stop her from wanting to... skydive. Skydive? How do you get a quadriplegic, wheelchair bound person into a tandem parachute harness? And then, to top it off, the plane isn't big enough to allow two people to jump, because Margaret had to help pushing her out? But, it was a major item on her charge's "bucket list". Never mind that in the excercise, she suffered two broken knees... "Always take the road to the left of life" is Margaret's credo. She has worked with indigenous people, a paraplegic Rugby player, whom she accompanied as a fully paid carer to Canada and Los Angeles. On to Tijuana, where the owner of the Taxi she hired, a "huge, scary guy with tatoos all over him" unceremoniously lifted her ex Rugby player up and gently placed him in the car, then drove them to a huge meeting hall in the middle of nowhere, outside of which were parked some 300 Harley Davidsons... The road to the left of life? More like it the entire road! ☺ |
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What a District Conference that was!Well, if you missed it: too bad! The District Conference over the last weekend was nothing short of superb. So much quality. So much emotion. Your Editor's view is expressed in my email to District Governor Michael Irving and his chief organizers Jodie Shelly and Col Lee: G'day Michael, Jodie and Colin, Just a note to congratulate you and your organizing team for a superb conference. What amazing speakers! What variety - mixing the likes of Bill Boyd and Noel Trevaskis with the deep end of journalism of Kerry O'Brien and flower arrangements of Mark Pampling. And then, I thought... ok, I would "suffer" Ita Buttrose, expecting that this really was more for my better half - how wrong can one be. To top it off, a man of the calibre of Noel Pearson's eloquence, telling it like it is... How good is that! Well organized, from our view as a guest, all ran like clockwork! Take a bow. Thank you all for your combined effort. Franz & Catherine Huber |
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$4,500 Samoa School Raffle was drawn last week![]() The results: in total 223 tickets were sold which raised a respectable $5,575 towards the cost of the School for Samoa. Still short of the target of $12,000 though. You still can donate directly online: click on this link which will connect you to the specific secure website Rotary Australia Word Community Service (RAWCS). All donations are fully tax deductible. Special thanks go to Neil Thurlow, whose company Accent Print and Copy provided all the printing of the tickets free of charge, and congratulations to Geoff Croad, who came tops in the sales department: he sold 6 books! President Elect Larry Murray also emphasised the enormous work done by Rosie McIntyre (left on picture) who not only organized the prize itself from Bartercard, but also kept track of all the money collected and managed the online sales, and Mario Fairlie, in charge of all relations between our club, RAWCS, authorities and the Samoa Victims Support Group who are our representatives over there.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Hetty Johnston AM![]() "Children's Sexual Assault is preventable" Hetty stated. Not just by providing |
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This week's Guest Speaker: Margaret Smith![]() Margaret recently moved to the Gold Coast. She is an accomplished speaker and internationally accredited Life Coach, author and motivational speaker, currently working on P & O cruises . Her honest no nonsense approach to life is both refreshing and intriguing . Margaret will entertain us with her stories as a caregiver to the disabled.
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Last week's speaker: Andy Bell - Undercover Cop![]() Not long after Andy graduate to distributing 'Buddha Sticks'. They were imported in 44 Gallon Drums, dumped outside the harbour from the importing ship and picked up by small vessels. His cut: $1 per stick- which earned him a cool $30,000 a year when his annual salary was about $10,000! Ultimately, Andy got the entire gang arrested... ![]() Rather than retiring from undercover, Andy was soon assigned to infiltrate a gang threatening to cause serious disruption, including potential killings, during the upcoming visit of South Africa's Springboks Rugby team. Visualize Andy wearing appropriate clothing to get into a Hippie style gang: Seer sucker flares, platform shoes, lime green and maroon shirt, blue velvet jacket... The issue was serious enough that he was briefed by the Prime Minister of New Zealand and the Police Commissioner... There is much more to the story! Andy has written a book about it: 'Adrenalin Rush - The Adventures of an Undercover Cop'. The Gold Coast Library has several copies. Pick it up!
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Dinner Meeting this week - Mike BennettNote: this Wednesday we'll meet for Dinner, NOT for breakfast. 6:00 pm for 6:15 pm start at the RSL Club. Guests most welcome. Still only $20.00 per person. But if you would also like to have just a social get together for breakfast: meet at Bumbles Cafe, 21 River Dr, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217. Guest Speaker: Mike Bennett - A life with the media Hailing from the UK with a background as newscaster, cameraman and interviewer for ITV, Mike has regularly been asked to provide live camera for ITV national news and to supply interviews and packages for major news events. Interviews have included politicians, sports personalities, so called "celebrities" and, on some occasions, "real people!" From fire engine chasing to cats stuck up trees, Mike has filmed every type of local news story and interviewed anyone from emergency services to eye witnesses. He has also produced speedway programmes for Screensport, Motors TV and the ITV network.
Mike still hosts two radio shows and now runs his own media training business "Media Answers", here on the Gold Coast. Here with us to share his life with the media and some insights into how to handle the press for the celebrities among us, join us for this insightful and fascinating dinner. |
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Samoa School pre-construction has startedThe Samoa School Raffle will close this coming Saturday 29th April 2017. Surfers Sunrise Rotary will build a school for disadvantaged kids in Samoa. Have you sold your tickets? Or, if you prefer to buy on a secure website, see link below. Making a difference, that's what Rotary is all about. Our Club, Surfers Sunrise, will build a school for disadvantaged children in Samoa. We just need a few more dollars to raise the final funds, so we have organized a Raffle with a huge prize. Only 500 tickets - Family Holiday in Fiji valued at AUS $4,522. Closes 29th April 2017. Full details on this website: Click here to go to a secure website to place your order: https://www.rafflelink.com.au/rotary4217 These tickets make a fantastic, quick and easy gift too. OK, Easter has just gone, but whom did you forget to buy an Easter Egg for?. Would you help us to spread the message? Log on to Facebook, go to our club's page www.facebook.com/rcsurferssunrise and share the post. Come on, do it right now, before you forget! Imagine how you would feel if you lived in a country where you couldn't afford to send your child to school? In Samoa there are many children who don't have the privilege our Aussie kids have of getting an education and creating a better life for themselves, as they live in extreme poverty. The Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise, in conjunction with the Northern Gold Coast Collegiate of schools, will build a cyclone ratified school for the Samoa Victims Support Group to provide a place for these children to learn for free. We have plenty of experience, with similar buildings erected in Thailand after the 2006 Tsunami, Samoa after the 2009 Tsunami and the House of Hope in Samoa in 2012. All labour is provided pro bono, there are no commissions, wages etc. Crikey! The construction crew even pays for their own airfares and accommodation! Thank you for all your help.
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Last week: Jo Gorman & Tania Laird - Leadership Institute![]()
Jo and Tania specifically addressed a point all clubs, including ours, need to seriously concentrate on: Membership development and retention: Identify the target audience, Define how to go about it, Attract potential members, show them the value of potentially engaging with us and ongoing involvement. Jo also provided a brief outline of The Rotary Foundation. Starting with a foundation capital of $26.50 (yes, no misprint), today it is one of the largest non-government charitable organizations in the world. But perhaps we should go back to basics first: Can you remember The Objects of Rotary? What about The 4-Way Test, in essence the 10 commandments distilled into 4? Yes, we have seen them so many times, one gets a bit blasé about it. Keep reading below… |
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The District Conference is this weekend!Have you registered? Not too late: click on this link. The detailed program has now been released: click here. Starting on Friday, but you can attend any of the sessions (except the College of Governor's Lunch, unless you have PDG, DG or DGE in front of your name...). Hey, how about Professor Lyn Griffiths, the Biomedical Director at QUT (Saturday at 09:25 am). Or famous TV journalist Kerry O'Brien (yes, of the 7:30 Report and 4 Corners) at 11:25 am. Then, in the evening we have a bush dance: It will be held at the Alstonville Community Centre, just a 20 minute drive from Ballina, or if you prefer not to drive, a bus is organized. The band is Tallowwood Bush Band (yes, "No 96 to the snack bar please"...). The line-up includes a swag of incredibly talented multi-instrumentalists who present folk music from around the world with a strong Celtic influence and an emphasis on preserving the Australian family bush dance that transports the audience through time and emotion leaving no doubt why this band has been the winner of so many music awards and been so popular at festivals and events throughout Australia. And for food? Master Chef Tony Koelner will have an open spit bar-be-que. Conference attendance itself is free, but, fair enough, some fees apply if you want to get lunch, participate in the bush dance on Saturday night etc. Wouldn't miss it for quids. See you there!
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The inaugural Gold Coast Ramble: What a rip-snorter!As Simon Brook writes in his President's message, what a magic day! After the heavy rains of the previous days, a day of sunshine, pleasant temperatures and... lots and lots of enthusiastic participants, volunteers, helpers, and yes, even the family dogs participated! Considering that this is our first go at staging this major event, I have no doubt that it will become an annual major event. Close to 60 teams registered, almost all dressed up in one way or another, some with very imaginative names such as 'Poodles and Oodles', 'Niopotamus', 'The Peach Fuzz', 'Coast Busters', 'Run like the Winded', just to name a few. The 4 Hour section was deservedly won by 'Blues Clues', a team supporting the 'Beyond Blue' foundation. Our very own Rosie McIntyre, competing under the banner of 'The Annihilators' (!!) won the 2 Hour event, capably supported by her husband Andrew and daughter Trinity, (Picture right, courtesy of Harry Ellis). And President Simon rolled up with his 'The Elites' and took out the 'Best Costume' category. (Picture left). ![]() Our club was also well represented in the volunteer section (however, there is still massive room for improvement...). Special recognition must go to Mark Twyford, who had the Financials portfolio (including budget preparation), Ray Higgs, DGE Darrell Brown and Geoff Croad who each took on a Team Leader job, joined by Chris Thurtell, Graeme Isaacson, Angus Miller, Paul Seymour, Richard and Sue Smith. Your Editor's finger nails are starting to re-grow, after being chewed off worrying about the IT side of Registrations and checking them all in with the capable help and calming influence of Tania Laird (no major hick-ups though). The Wheelchair boys - Daryl Sanderson, Des La Rance, Bob Harrison and Al Sirovs, had a display of our wheelchairs. (If I missed anyone: sorry, I didn't see you!) But the laurels must go to the principal organizers: Assistant Governor David Baguley and his Broadbeach Rotary Club team and the Satellite Club of Griffith University. We'll have a Photo Album shortly, once the photos from all the various snappers have been gathered together.
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The people one meets in Rotary: Jack Millbank - Bargara Brewery![]() "To brew the best craft beer sustainably, while contributing to conservation projects that really matter, and are doing something, not just talking about it."
So we went to check them out. Jack gave us a comprehensive tour of the craft brewery he built from scratch, whilst we nursed a pot of one of his many variations. He explained the technical details of why a Pale Ale (their name: 'Drunk Fish' comes to taste differently to a "Hefeweizen" (their name: 'Phat Heffa'). Fortunately for us there wasn't an exam at the end of the lecture, but to be sure, we went back to the counter to make doubly sure that our initial impression of "bloody marvellous" was not in error...
![]() So what's special? Well, Bargara Brewery has landed numerous Export contracts to sell their craft beer into South Korea, Vietnam and China shortly to follow. They are totally swept off their proverbial feet! So much so that they now have to farm part of their production, under license, out to a Sydney brewery which can handle the volume. So, I am asking the question: why is the Australian media not jumping on superb success stories like this instead of the never ending bitching between the political parties?
Now, I'm assured that some of Bargara Brewery's products are available in local Dan Murphy and First Choice stores. I'll check that out shortly.
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Simon Schmidthe, Substation 33![]() Simon Schmidthe from Substation 33 (that's him on the left, holding a replica of a T-Rex skull he printed using one of his 3-D printers) demonstrated how his organization is engaging Work for the Dole and even disabled people to make 3-D Printers, using recycled computer components. Yes, a 3-D Printer using a 16-bit CPU, some components such as rails and stepper motors pulled out of old printers. The total cost is about $63.00. Come again? Yes, $63.00. "The most complex component is the software" Simon elaborated, "but that is 'Open Source' software which is free".
But they also make other stuff, such as an automatic sign which Councils can place in flood prone areas. The device contains a floating mechanism which automatically causes a "Road Flooded" sign to flash and automatically notifies the Council computer and authorities that a particular road is now flooded and closed. And what are you using for power? Wait for this: |
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Snippets of last week's meeting 080317Chris Thurtell was at the door, Richard Smith was Chairman and Andy Bell was Sergeant.
We had apologies from Gerald East, Larry Murray, Peter Morgan, Daryl Sanderson and Des La Rance. President Simon Brook welcomed all members and our guest speaker Simon Schmidthe (see his presentation above). In celebration of International Women's Day which was last Wednesday, he briefly referred to the struggle the first lady members had, back in about 1986: their club's Charter was withdrawn! [But it didn't take long. On the Gold Coast, our club actually was the last club to be chartered, before Ashmore was chartered as the first mixed club here. Ed.] A board meeting will be held in two weeks' time, the Gold Coast Ramble will be on in two weeks, and on 19th April we'll have another 'Sunset' meeting - see Events section. On 26th April, we'll have a Joint Meeting with RC of Hope Island.
DGE Darrell Brown reported from his visit to the McLean Rotary Club and presented a banner - VERY Scottish indeed! Darrell also referred to the upcoming District Assembly (was the weekend just gone by), the District Changeover will be on 25th June 2017. Darrell's better half, Kerrie is donating one of her quilts (see picture above). It is valued at least at $1,000 and will be the first prize in a raffle to be conducted over the District Assembly and Changeovers. Proceeds will go to the Australian Rotary Health fund. (Kerrie's own 'Partner's Project' will be ROMAC though). On 21st July 2017 will be the Australian Rotary Health Muster. Broadwater Southport and us will change the normal meeting and have a Bar-be-que on the Broadwater Parklands. Expect about 20 caravans to roll up! More as we get closer to the date.
Doug Lipp advised, on behalf of President Elect Larry Murray on the upcoming District Assembly on this coming Sunday 12th March: all incoming board members and club executives need to attend.
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Last week's speaker: Franz Huber - Bush PoetryAnd down by Kosciusko, where the pine-clad ridges raise
Their torn and rugged battlements on high, Where the air is clear as crystal, and the white stars fairly blaze At midnight in the cold and frosty sky, And where around The Overflow the reed beds sweep and sway To the breezes, and the rolling plains are wide.... ... don't rubbish Australia!
Well, it still is goose pimple stuff today, in particular if Jack Thompson recites it.
In Australia, the art is well and truly developed. Sure, everyone has heard and read the old masters: in addition to Banjo, for example, "In the days when the world was wide" by Henry Lawson. Many however may not be aware that there was some quite fierce competition, if not antagonism |
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How to attract Heavy Lifters like Ian Raisley to join Rotary![]() You can read the full story and interview in The Rotarian magazine. It is available online, but you need to subscribe to it. Go to www.rotary.org and go to My Rotary.
Have YOU asked somebody to join Rotary recently?
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Last Wednesday we celebratedWe had a grand time! Surfers Sunrise celebrated the 30th Anniversary of its charter, so instead of the usual breakfast, we met for dinner. Lots of guests were there too, and quite a number of our members also brought their partners along. (See photo album in the download section on the right).
Still, there was some "normal" club business, so here are some snippets:
Daryl Sanderson drew the short straw and was at the door, Paul Seymour was Chairman and MC and Andy Bell was Sergeant.
There was no call for apologies. President Simon Brook welcomed all members and their partners, our Honorary Members, Charter President Bill Moir, John Ellemor, who was accompanied by his daughter Lynne Wright and her partner James, George and Natasha Keily, and in particular Jan Lutz, Carole Waller and her friend Lenie Johansen. Clive Edwards (RC of Young, NSW) was accompanied by his charming wife Margaret, and Ray & Valeria Higgs' guests were John & Rosemary Rowe. To save time, members' partners were not individually introduced. He asked all past Presidents of the club to be recognized. Simon briefly summarized (have you noticed? in Surfers Sunrise, speeches are kept short!) a world of 30 years ago: There were no women in Rotary yet (that came in 1988), no internet, Bob Hawke was Prime Minister and Joh Bielke-Petersen was Premier, and Nicky Webster was born, the very first mobile phone was released ("the brick"), fuel was 52 cents a litre, [it is actually about the same today: according to Australian Government's CPI Index, we have had an inflation factor of 2.43 times since 1987, which would make 57 cents equivalent to $1.38 in today's value. Ed.(also known as 'Smart A...')]
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Not running in the Gold Coast Ramble? Volunteer!![]() We need your help!
We need about 120 volunteers. We have 40 checkpoints with 2 volunteers on each checkpoint so about 80 volunteers on checkpoints from 10am to 4pm. At each checkpoint, the entrants use the Gold Coast Ramble App to download a challenge about the immediate area – this could relate to the heritage, the natural environment, street art or local infrastructure. Other volunteers are needed between 7am and 10 am for site and checkpoint set up, and between 3.30 and 5pm for site and checkpoint pack up. Three shifts are available - see registration. There is no cost involved. Another team will manage registrations, marshalling at event start and other administration. |
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This Wednesday 22nd Feb: 30th Anniversary DinnerYes, we were chartered some 30 years ago! In celebration, instead of breakfast, our "official" meeting will be for dinner at 6:00 pm for 6:30 pm - same place, same price of just $20.00 per person (bring cash please). All members, guests and friends welcome.
Surfers RSL Club
9 Beach Road
Surfers Paradise 4217
You can park across the road in the Bruce Bishop Car Park. Bring your ticket with you to have it pre-paid for you.
Do you have any memorabilia for general display? Photos? Bring them with you!
But we'll still have a social meeting in the morning. Meet at 07:00 am at
Bumbles Cafe (Budds Beach)
19 River Drive, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Please bring cash for your breakfast as there can only be one bill per table ( 2 or 3 tables will be set up).
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Rotary International Theme for 2017/18![]() The President Elect gave a very good speech, executed in his relaxed Aussie style - well worth 18 minutes of your time. Go to this link: http://video.rotary.org/AUak/ian-hs-riseley-theme/ or you can download a PDF version of it. Needless to say, that as an Australian (Ian will be the 4th Australian RI President), you won't have any problems with his accent!
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Last week's Speaker: Ian Mayberry - Goodwood Race Meeting![]() ![]() So it came as no major surprise to learn that he recently shouted himself a ticket to the annual 'Goodwood Revival' Race Meeting in England. Revival? Well, they are not just displaying old racing cars, such as Jack Brabham's last Tasman Series, or $20 Million Maseratis. They are racing them! There are even people who go through the trouble of shipping a restored car worth millions from here to the UK, race it over there and ship it back again. And just in case you doubted that the event is for people who have more than just a couple of bob to rub together: the Ice Cream Van is a vintage Rolls Royce (picture on right). But wait, there is more...
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Guest Speaker extraordinaire: Assistant Police Commissioner Brian Codd APMJoining the Queensland Police Force over 30 years ago (remember the Fitzgerald Enquiry?), one can rightfully expect that there isn’t much to do with crime that Brian has not seen and experienced. The audience would be forgiven to expect lots of content relating to terrorism, shoot-outs, drug arrests, coward-punch attacks, and with Melbourne’s Burke Street tragedy still fresh in our mind, nut cases driving cars. “On the Gold Coast”, he asked, “where do you think is the most dangerous place to be?” Yes, it is the home. Domestic Violence, assaults, paedophilia. “50% of assaults are Domestic Violence” Brian explained. The officers loathe being called to a DV incident: Not only is it always a very tricky situation, but it can well be that both the perpetrator as well as the victim will turn against the officers.
On the Gold Coast, a new approach is being trialled with considerable success. Officers wear Body Cameras, thus recording every second of what happened, who said what. “There has been a 48% increase in DV cases reported” Brian elaborated. But he doesn’t believe that this is an actual increase. The incidents were always there, they just did not get reported in earlier days.
It has a severe effect on staff morale and even the officer’s mental health. Which brings us to his next most important topic. What would you think is the leading cause for violent death in the age group of 15 – 44 years old? Judging by the daily news, it would have to be Bicycle / Motorbike / Car crashes? Sorry, no. It’s Suicide. “In Australia, we have over 3,000 suicide victims every year. On average 8 every day. That is double the road toll. And, for every ‘successful’ suicide, there are 30 attempts.
So, next time you are annoyed when you get pulled up, just keep in mind that the guy outside your car window may have just come back from attending a domestic, or worse.
Picture above: President Simon Brook gets a brief demonstration how one deals with miscreants... ☺
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Introducing: President Elect Andy Bell![]() President Elect 2018/19, Director Club Administration: Jo Gorman Secretary: Mark Twyford Treasurer: Mitch Brown Director, Youth Services: Tania Laird Director, Service Projects: Graeme Isaacson Chairman, Wheelchair Trust: Daryl Sanderson Vice President: Ian Mayberry Director, Public Relations: Mario Fairlie Director, Fundraising: Doug Lipp Chairman, The Rotary Foundation committee: Gerald East You can download the full list of the incoming committee on the Download Section on the right. |
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New Year's Resolution: I'm
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"Our" Youth Exchange Student Kieran soon will be off to GermanyThis year, we "borrowed" a Youth Exchange candidate from the Warwick Rotary Club. His name is Kieran Power, an all-round high achiever. Not only academically, he also plays the lead in school musicals, plays the guitar and a whole swag of other things. You can download an essay he wrote - see Download page on the right. Below is a photo published by his school 'The School of Total Education'. You can read the entire article at this link: http://www.sote.qld.edu.au/latest-news/rotary-exchange-to-Germany
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Christmas Party at The Shed![]() By the look of the almost formal table setting, they could apply for a position in hospitality any time..! ☺
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YE Students visit Purling Brook Falls![]() |
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Tony Winwood on Superannuation![]() The first number with lots and lots of zeroes is Two Trillion Dollars. Two Million Million Dollars. That is the size of funds in Australian Superannuation Funds. The $350 Billion is the unfunded liability of various Governments [about $195 Billion of that is Federal Government, according to Budget Papers. Ed.] That 2 Trillion is approximately 1/3rd of the total wealth of Australia, estimated to be about 6 Trillion according to Tony. The Government collects taxes of about $7 Billion per annum. So, what’s the problem? Quite simply: we live too long. Or we don’t save enough. Take your pick. The figures are actually quite simple:
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Sarah Cooper: 'Swapping Children'Since then, Sarah and her husband Mark have hosted lots and lots of International Exchange Students, some organized via schools and some via Rotary. And it wasn't always an easy ride: recalling a girl who came from Japan: "It almost turned out to be a disaster. She was shy, she couldn't speak English. We tried all sorts of things, including getting Japanese food..." On the other hand, Sarah gave us recollections of several others, from France, Osaka (Japan), Emma from Toronto (Canada). Emma had never been to the beach in her life before! Emmie, another Japanese girl. "Emmie was always very quiet, appeared worried... Then, upon her return home, we received a handwritten letter from her: 'I had the time of my life!' she wrote." Just goes to say...
![]() Of course, we all recall our very own Laura Burtscher from Austria (see photo right, cooking Goulash at Sarah's), whom the Coopers hosted whilst their daughter Felicity was in Finland. "It's like having another family in another country. Everything in life is a circle - I have now 'daughters' all over the world".
Sarah has agreed to return again in the new year to talk about the psychological aspects of Youth Exchange, both from the student's as well as from the host parents' point of view. With herself and two of her daughters having done exchanges in foreign language countries and having hosted students from all corners of the world, who would be better qualified? Looking forward to it!
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Christmas Breakfast this Wednesday 14th DecemberMeeting time: 06:45 am for fellowship with juices, tea & coffee on the lawn for 07:15 am move to our tables for a unique breakfast service. Free parking on-site.
Cost is $30.00 per person.
PRE BOOKING ESSENTIAL – NO WALK-INS ON THE MORNING PLEASE.
Full payment to be received into our club's bank account no later than Wednesday the 7th of December or cash to our Treasurer at the meeting on that day. All welcome to invite guests at the special members price of $30.00.
Our club's bank details for direct deposit:
BSB: 484-799
A/c No: 047306431
Or book online with Credit Card, click on this link:
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Last week's Guest Speaker: Mayor Tom Tate![]() And it would appear that Tom's (may I call you by your first name, Your Worship?) career had much to do with a very positive attitude to win. "Right place, right time" is one of his mottoes. First elected in 2012, he found that there were just 2 cranes on the Gold Coast horizon, both on the (Queensland Government) Griffith Uni / Hospital project. "Tourism, Education and Construction is our core", Tom declared. Thus, he instigated not just the sacking of of the council's Chair of Planning, but also declared that there would be no Infrastructure Levies for the next 6 months. Vigorous lobbying of Chinese and Japanese developers brought up projects such as $1 Billion Jewels project after the much maligned Broadwater Wave Break Island Casino project got knocked back. Following Jewels is the announcement by Chairman Xin Wang of the Hong Kong based Forise Holdings of a 88 storey tower on the former Iluka site, topping Q1 as the tallest building. [It is the policy of Rotary, and of your Editor, to remain non-political, so no further comment. Ed.]
Other major endeavors are in the sector of Education. "Students are Tourists", Tom declared. "So, we cooperate with this 1.5 Billion Industry by facilitating their efforts with our Tourism Industry and Tourism Authorities".
And what will happen after the Commonwealth Games? "The 'Village' will be converted to a specialized medical industry precinct, manufacturing body parts" Tom enthused. And with the extension of the Light Rail to Helensvale, at a cost of some $55 Million to the Council (this is 17% of total cost), the ongoing expansion of the Gold Coast is not going to stop. "Our Town Plan is to promote 'going upwards instead of sprawling out" he said. This would explain why we can expect a substantial relaxation of the 3 stories limit, which apparently was originally set because that is the height of the trees...
Any politician who makes things happen, will always have opponents, usually more than one who doesn't. But, in 2016, Tom was elected with a majority of 73% of the two-candidate vote. This would indicate that our Mayor indeed has the backing of the bulk of the population.
Photo above: President Simon Brook presents a vote of thanks.
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Last week's Sergeant: Andy Bell 091116Barry Lea, nice to see you. To no doubt, the fact that the omelette was strictly Halal would have had specific attraction... Richard Smith needed a solid 5 minutes of training to get on top of his gig as today's Chairman... Jo Gorman, no doubt the richest woman on the Gold Coast: Seen on Channel 7 parading with the winning Race Horse... Mark Twyford, quite respectable shoes today for a change, but what about the shirt! Peter Morgan, how's the knee? [very good, thank you...] Angus Miller had his birthday on Saturday. Mate, for a 98 year old, you are not looking bad at all! Ian Mayberry at last night's board meeting, showed his appreciation of the Sergeant's Red Wine: just give him a bottle and a glass, and he won't leave anymore! Mario Fairlie has been doing it tough recently: down to his last 30 Million or so, he bought a $150 replica pen... Gerald East and Fred Hamblen: what a dress combination! A picture is a thousand words - see right... Darrell Brown in comparison is dressed downright dull... Mitch Brown's nick name of Billbo Baggins from the Hobbits has been confirmed - he actually answers to the call... Simon Brook: that joke you told...
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The people one meets when doing a Make-upMembership in Rotary simply is the gift that keeps on giving… Where else would you have the opportunity to meet so many extraordinary people? Past RI President Clem Renouf’s famous statement keeps coming to mind: “Rotary takes ordinary men and gives them extraordinary opportunities to do more with their lives than they ever dreamed possible.”
![]() Well, in Clem Renouf’s words, Liz is one of those, "ordinary" people who achieve extraordinary results. Her full report, which also outlines some of her work with other Rotary Clubs, is in the download section on the right. Go on, well worth your time to read it!
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Our Youth Programs: National Youth Science Forum![]() ![]() NYSF candidates are selected from Year 12 High School Students and similar schools, such as the Qld Government Health Sciences Academy (Griffith University) where Maria studied at the time.
The next forum will take place for a week in January 2017 (applications closed in June). But give some thoughts to any potential candidate for 2018 - nominations will close in June 2017!
More details at this link: https://www.nysf.edu.au/
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Surfers Sunrise Wheelchairs to NigeriaYou all recall the big effort by Madonna Brosnan and the Jesus Abandoned Charity, when they came down with a truckload of clothing to "fill in the empty gaps" in a container load of wheelchairs bound for Nigeria.
This video shows Fr Anthony Ananwa distributing Surfers Sunrise Rotary wheelchairs from Australia to residents of Nnewi district.
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