(From notes taken by Secretary Mark Twyford, photos by Charles Thomasson)
Peter Morgan was Chairman and Andy Bell was Sergeant. We had apologies from Franz Huber, Tania Laird, Rosie Rocco, Simon Brook, Mario Fairlie, Daryl Sanderson and Bob Harrison.
President Jo Winwood welcomed all members and guests Dr Michael Pyne and Warren Croad, (brother of Geoff), and PDG Darrell Brown introduced our Guest Speaker, Dr Michael Pyne - see separate article.
After Dr Pyne's presentation, Jo proceeded with the induction of our newest member, John Chirio (photo on right). John is a very experienced Rotarian; he has joined us from the Rotary Club of Wellington Point. We look forward to hearing more about you soon, John, when you do your 'Man behind the Badge' presentation!
This was immediately followed by President Jo presenting PDG Darrell Brown with his Paul Harris Fellowship (PHF) pin with two Rubies. This represents a total of at least $US 8,000 that has been donated to The Rotary Foundation by, or on behalf of, Darrell. Congratulations! Darrell is also a member of the Paul Harris Society which recognizes people who donate at least $US 1,000 every year to the Annual Fund, Polio Plus or approved Global Grants.And the presentations kept coming on: last but not least, Immediate Past District Governor Darrell Brown presented Andy Bell with a Presidential Citation, recognizing our club's achievement in the last Rotary year when Andy was President. See separate article.
A number of 'house keeping' items came up: No social breakfast but instead a vocational visit to Dracula's (see separate article above), Fundraising effort selling Sweep tickets at the upcoming Melbourne Cup luncheon with Traction at The Island Hotel, Surfers Paradise. This is in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Beaudesert. Over 600 people are expected! Manpower needed - contact Jo if you haven't already put your name down.
Chris Thurtell reminded all that on 31st October (that is next week!), Surfers Paradise SLSC President Trevor Hendy will be our Guest Speaker. Ray Higgs elaborated on the upcoming RI Peace Fellowships: it is hotly contested indeed: 700 applications for 100 places! Angus Miller reminded all about the 'Guess who is coming to Dinner?' event to be held on Saturday 17th November.
[And yes, there was a Sergeant's session. However, regrettably the notes provided were not elaborate enough to write a story around it... Sorry! Ed.]