As we power toward the busking festival and markets this weekend all seems to be falling in place, well done to Sandra and her team who have managed to involve the whole town in this celebration of music.
Today, Sunday, I wandered around the markets at Kiama and we had sausage sandwiches from Lions tent and BBQ. Wow their health inspector must be very relaxed! we do really run a very good outfit when you see what’s out there.
Changeover is coming up next month and Rod has been working hard on getting the night organised and Bob forming his strategies for the upcoming year.
Michael had a live interview with Macca on ABC radio and it went so well that there may be more in the coming weeks. The photo’s he is posting are great and his ankle is slowly getting better. He sends his wishes and although he is finding it tougher than he thought it would be he is still smiling and kept his sense of humour .
Have a great week and see you on Thursday
Cheers
Bob Ant.
The Week that Was
Bob Antill presenting Pauline Gleeson with the Cinders Trophy
What a great evening we had last Wednesday with our friends from Moruya Rotary. Most of us travelled north in style on a Symons Bus, it was great not to have to drive up. The only slight hic up was that we missed Chris as we drove past the Dalmeny shops (Because she was still siting in her car!) and had to make a slight detour to pick her up. And of course who was the last to get on the bus on the way home? Chris.
In all I think we had more than 20 members and guests representing Narooma.
Unfortunately we lost the Cinders Trophy this year. Our three gallant teams were no match for one of the Moruya outfits who led from the first round, their knowledge of flags and famous faces was outstanding. A special mention to the Narooma team ‘Rodney and the Rockets’ wonderfully led by our very own Rod Walker who almost made it, coming second by a couple of points.
I am sure that next year with a bit of practice and home ground advantage we will take back what is rightfully ours.
59th Changeover Dinner
Thursday 29th June
Narooma Golf Club
6.30pm for 7.00pm
$35 per person (two courses main and desert cake, table wine)
RSVP to Rod by Friday 16th June
Busking Competition
Well the big weekend is almost here. The Competition will be a great boost to Narooma as well as our Club. Once again thank you to Sandra and her band of willing helpers for all the organisation that has gone into the event. Please encourage friends and family to come out on Saturday and visit one of the many busking locations – lets put Narooma on the map. Check out the website for all the latest information click here.
Micheal’s trek.
I hope you are keeping up with Michael’s Facebook posts as he walks the track. It seems as though he is having fun with a few missed turns, broken glasses and the odd sprained ankle. I am just a bit worried that he seems to have no trouble finding a pub or two along the way to refresh his body and soul. Click here if you missed his conversation last Sunday with Macca. Michael’s conversation starts about 2 minutes and 10 seconds in.
I am writing this article on Mother’s Day, which, when we take the commercialisation out, is a great reminder to us all that our mums are, or were, very special people. Parenting is a job we undertake without any training, or extra skills and often with very little help or support. We make it happen and each generation praises (or complains about!) the efforts of their parents until they have their own children. So, Mother’s Day is a day of celebration and reflection of our mothers for they made us what we are today.
Spare a thought for all the mothers around the world who are suffering because of war, famine and violence, for those who are dominated by cruel men and for those who are denied the freedoms we take for granted. For these mothers, we as Rotarians, through our fundraising and projects, can make a difference even though we live in Narooma.
Cinders is Wednesday this week. A bus is booked and I hope you have invited your “brains trusts”. Rod is sending out a time table. The bus leaves from the depot at 5pm and the evening is expected to finish at about 8.30pm in Moruya. As always, I’m sure, win or lose, we will have a great night.
The team organising the Busking Competition under Sandra’s excellent leadership is powering ahead. It is fantastic that the Competition is being supported by the community and other Service Clubs which will make it a truly Narooma event. Well done to all.
See you Wednesday
Bob Ant.
The Week Ahead
This week we are off to Moruya to beat them in trivia once again so that we can retain the converted Cinders Trophy.
To help prepare the following information may be helpful.
2016/17 RI President John F. Germ Theme ‘Rotary Serving Humanity’
2017/18 RI President Ian HS Riseley Theme ‘Rotary: Making a Difference’
The first Melbourne Cub was won by Archer in 1861, Phar Lap won in 1930 and the winner last year was Almandin, Prince of Penzance won in 2015 with Michelle Payne aboard.
Cronulla won the NRL in 2016, Western Bulldogs beat the Swans in the AFL grand final.
Bus pick up times for Wednesday
5.00pm Depart bus depot
5.10pm Main bus stop (opposite Lynches Hotel)
5.15pm Bus stop on flat
5.25pm Kianga bus stop
5.30pm Bakala St
5.33pm William St
5.40pm Dalmeny shops
Rotary uses virtual reality to inspire others
Rotary is working with Google’s virtual reality team to offer an experience that showcases the impact of compassion to a global audience. A three-minute virtual reality film that emphasizes the two themes of polio and peace will premiere at the Rotary Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, 13 June. Click here to read more.
The Week that Was
Last Thursday we welcomed Rotarians Bob Allen from the Rotary Club of Yenda and Colin Holmes from the Rotary Club of Canberra to our meeting. We were also fortunate to have Iris and Merinda with us as regular guests.
John Doyle with the help of Sandra gave us an update on the Busking Competition -all systems are go with locations, sponsors, concerts, parking etc in place. In all we will have 38 buskers taking part in the Competition, a great effort.
Mal Gray gave an interesting 3-minute talk about cutting through ice on frozen lakes in central Canada to fish! It all sounded a bit cold for me, however, Mal assured as that some liquid refreshment helped the warming process.
The main entertainment was a fun night put on by President Bob and Merinda, it was great fun with all members trying to outdo each other to get the correct answers. The highlight was the ‘who am I game’. The aim of the game was for the selected Rotarian to guess the name placed on their head by asking questions where the response could only be yes or no. Unfortunately, no one solved the puzzle, however, some of the questions and answers were hilarious. Thanks to Merinda and Bob for all the work they put into organising the evening.
The winners
Enid Holmes cleaned up with eggs, lemons and wine, Laurelle also won a bottle of wine, Iris a Rotary shirt (As did our visitor Bob Allen who kindly donated it back to the Club). Peter Bull and Lynda Ord also won a dozen eggs each.
2017/18 Planning Day
All 2017/18 Board members are invited to a planning day on 18 June at Bob Aston’s house. The meeting will commence at 10:30 and conclude at 1:00pm. Please provide Bob with feedback about the planning document emailed to 2017/18 Board members on 2 May 2017 by Wednesday at the latest. This will assist the planning process.
Beacon Editor
A bulletin editor is needed for 2017/18 please see Bob Aston if you can assist. Comprehensive training will be provided. If no one nominates we will not have a regular Beacon next Rotary Year.
Friday morning saw a few hiccups in setting up at the Oyster Festival which we were able to sort out quickly and by all accounts things went well from then on. I believe it was a major effort by all and thank you for the hard work.
The Busking signs are now up and around town many thanks to John Doyle and the car club have confirmed their appearance adding another dimension to a wonderful programme.
Last Thursday night we had the pleasure of DGN Margaret Hassel from Cooma at our meeting. Margaret was down learning how to fly the new web site that Frank has created for them.
Our meeting and board meeting went to time and thank you for all (and especially Charmaine) for moving things along, Bob Aston will be proud.
This Thursday night we are having a fun night with a difference !!!!! bring friends and partners.
Michael is powering along on the “track” and doing a bit of sightseeing. He is offering a bottle of wine to the person who can work out what is in the water from the photo below (see highlighted section). If more than one person gets it then the names will go into a hat and the winner will be ……..
You may be able to see a clear picture on Michael’s Facebook Page.
Take care, Bob Ant
This week’s Beacon
This week’s Beacon is quite short, my apologies to all avid readers. Therese and I were away for the weekend and I missed last week’s meeting as well as the Oyster Festival. From all accounts the Club Assembly and the Board meeting went well and the Oyster Festival was a great success. I understand that Friday night was particularly busy with the van well supported by festival goers. Thanks to all who helped on Friday night and on Saturday. To see some great photos from Friday night check the Narooma News, click here.
Busking Competition
The next major event for the Club will be the Busking Competition 27 May. The Competition has the potential to be a huge event for the Club and Narooma. Please promote it to your friends and family – it would be great to see a big turn out on the day. Please help Sandra and her hard-working committee where you can. The more members we have helping make the job just that little bit easier.
Trivia Night
I hope everyone is swotting up for next week’s trivia night at Moruya. I am sure that the Moruya Club will be keen to regain the ‘Cinders Trophy’, however, I know that we have the superior capability and we are sure to win on the night.
What, you ask, is ‘Butt dust’? What do you do or say, when an innocent child asks you something so innocent and they are so serious? Read on and you’ll discover the joy in it! These must be original and genuine. No adult is this creative!!
JACK (age 3) was watching his Mom breast-feeding his new baby sister… After a while he asked: ‘Mom why have you got two? Is one for hot and one for cold milk?’
MELANIE (age 5) asked her Granny how old she was. Granny replied she was so old she didn’t remember any more. Melanie said, ‘If you don’t remember you must look in the back of your panties. Mine say five to six.’
STEVEN (age 3) hugged and kissed his Mom good night. ‘I love you so much that when you die I’m going to bury you outside my bedroom window.’
BRITTANY (age 4) had an ear ache and wanted a pain killer. She tried in vain to take the lid off the bottle. Seeing her frustration, her Mom explained it was a child-proof cap and she’d have to open it for her. Eyes wide with wonder, the little girl asked: ‘How does it know it’s me?’
SUSAN (age 4) was drinking juice when she got the hiccups. ‘Please don’t give me this juice again,’ she said, ‘It makes my teeth cough.’
DJ (age 4) stepped onto the bathroom scale and asked: ‘How much do I cost?’
CLINTON (age 5) was in his bedroom looking worried When his Mom asked what was troubling him, he replied, ‘I don’t know what’ll happen with this bed when I get married. How will my wife fit in it?’
MARC (age 4) was engrossed in a young couple that were hugging and kissing in a restaurant. Without taking his eyes off them, he asked his dad: ‘Why is he whispering in her mouth?’
TAMMY (age 4) was with her mother when they met an elderly, rather wrinkled woman her Mom knew. Tammy looked at her for a while and then asked, ‘Why doesn’t your skin fit your face?
JAMES (age 4) was listening to a Bible story. His dad read: ‘The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city but his wife looked back and was turned to salt.’ Concerned, James asked: ‘What happened to the flea?’
The Sermon I think this Mom will never forget.
This particular Sunday sermon… ‘ Dear Lord,’ the minister began, with arms extended toward heaven and a rapturous look on his upturned face. ‘Without you, we are but dust….’ He would have continued but at that moment my very obedient daughter who was listening leaned over to me and asked quite audibly in her shrill little four year old girl voice, ‘Mom, what is butt dust’?
Maths is not one of my strong points! Basic maths I’m OK but that’s it! Thanks to Bob Aston last Thursday nights’ “Fun with Maths” presentation it was a fun, challenging and entertaining.
Last Saturday I attended the District Assembly with Bob Aston, Rod and Sandra. Unfortunately, I was unable to go to the dinner or Sunday sessions (Bob will have more on that). I was able to be there for the session on “Form 3” on Saturday afternoon.
“Form 3” is very controversial and it appears that all Clubs present at the session had similar doubts to those
expressed by our members. DG Steve Hill took all the criticism on board and hopefully this will result in big changes and hopefully this American form might disappear for the good of all. More to come.
One speaker from Berry told of his Club’s success with three projects each year. Very informative but also had us thinking about our Club and major projects each year. Monthly Markets, Duck Race, Busking Festival and Renewable Expo all carry us in good stead combined with Race day with Batemans Bay and Moruya.
With the resignation of Mark Wallace as DGE, it has been decided that Steve Hill (the current DG) will continue for another year as there is not much time left until the changeover and RI rules mean that a replacement Governor must have attended an RI Assembly. It was good to see Steve put his hand up to continue, all at the assembly were very appreciative of Steve’s willingness to volunteer for another year.
Michael just be fore he headed off on the track last week
On the Busking Festival, Sandra’s team is powering ahead. I was able to catch up with the printing of the banners last week. They look terrific. Well done to all involved.
In Monday’s Sydney Morning Herald, there is an article about the eradication of Polio, (Rotary is mentioned briefly). It’s a good article, click here to read it.
Michael is now well into his walk on the Bibbulmun Track, if you want to keep up to date follow him on Facebook, he posts whenever he can. This is truly and inspiring individual effort, our thoughts are with him.
This Thursday night we have a Board meeting after the general meeting, at which I will give an update on the Assembly and other things.
Have a great week
Bob Ant.
The Week that Was.
President Bob has provided us with a good summary of last week’s meeting and the District Assembly. A few other points of interest.
There were 23 present at last week’s meeting it was great to see Enid Holmes (at Colin) along with Gordon Bentley and his son Scott. The 3-minute talk was given by Charmaine, as it was ANZAC week, she told a moving story of a family member who fought and died in WWI, winning a VC for his heroic efforts. The VC is now on display at the War Memorial in Canberra.
As Bob, has indicated Bob Aston was the guest speaker – presenting on ‘Maths is Fun’, congratulations to Charmaine who topped the class with her answers and to Sandra for her persistence in solving the river crossing problem and for having a go at the year 9 sample NAPLAN test.
Raffle winners were, Rod Walker (biscuits), Bob Aston (chocolates), Merinda Antill and Laurelle Pacey (wine).
Bob Aston also read a short text from Michael O’Connor about the start of his epic walk.
Last weekend’s District was informative and interesting. It was great to have Rotary International President Elect,
Sandra with RIPE Ian and his wife Juliette
Ian Riseley. Ian spoke about his theme for the year – Rotary Making a Difference’. He stressed the fact that the real Rotary is the local Club and its members, doing good locally as well internationally. He spoke about the importance of continuing our work to end eradicate polio, Ian said that it would be great if as the President of RI he could announce that the job had been done.
Ian also indicated that he wanted us to record our donations to charitable causes as well as our volunteer hours, so that Rotary can get a better sense of the work we do. This will allow Rotary to better highlight the excellent work of the organisation.
Ian also stated that as a small step to improve our world he wanted Club’s to plant at least one tree for every member (A task I am sure that we can achieve). Ian also implored us to have fun and enjoy Rotary (He told us that when he was a Club President he had an official joke teller! – just the job for Peter Bull I am sure).
Other presentations included Terry Davis talking about Australian Rotary Health, Dot Hennessey on the NSW Emergency Services Awards, Neil Simpson (Batemans Bay Rotary) on RYDA, Andrew Best from RI Parramatta on using the My Rotary Website and Rotary administration, John Britton on Youth Exchange and Natalie Jupe and Nathan Watkins on social media.
As Sandra doesn’t like to drive at night one of my duties on Saturday night was to drive Sandra from our motel to the Assembly Dinner in her car. As I drove along I couldn’t work out why everyone was flashing their lights at me – the simple answer, I didn’t bother turn on the lights of the car (also I couldn’t work out why I was having difficulty seeing the road!). As we were driving along I decided to adjust the rear vision mirror (It is one that incorporates a reversing camera screen as well as a mirror) – it fell off! With a bit of effort, I managed to get it back on only to realise as we were leaving the dinner that I had put it on upside down – just try backing out of a car park using a reversing camera when the image is upside down.
I will make no comment about Sandra’s directions from the motel to the venue on Sunday morning other than to say the scenic route was interesting.
This Week
Club Assembly followed by a Board Meeting
Need Urgently for 2017/18 Rotary Year
A vibrant club needs a committed Bulletin Editor to keep members informed and up to date on all matters Rotary. A volunteer is urgently needed for this task, if you are interested please let Bob Aston know, bribes and rewards will be offered to attract the best candidate.
Last Thursday night we celebrated our annual Pride of Workmanship Awards at the Whale and our thanks to Mat and Jen and the staff for putting on a great night. But this night didn’t just happen without the hard work of Laurelle and the great MC job from Lynda. Maybe next year we’ll fill the auditorium at the Golf Club as this Award goes from strength to strength.
Sunday’s markets were again a great success. The sunshine, the buskers, the atmosphere and most of all the great company. Well done to everyone involved and thank you for the great effort.
Some market entertainment
Michael had his last bucket collection parade (with Mal’s help) before heading off to start his walk, raising an additional $236.00 taking total funds raised beyond his goal of $10,000. On Monday morning, he hoped onto the Premier Bus at 8.30am for the first leg of the trip. He starts his walk along the the Bibbulmun Track at the end of the week. Our thoughts will be with him as he undertakes this epic journey.
This weekend is the Assembly in Canberra, hopefully we will get some clarification on “Form 3” and child protection issues – I’m looking forward to that.
On Wednesday night at Moruya Rotary Club’s meeting, founding member Ron Cheshire will be talking about the battle of Milne Bay in New Guinea during WWII. Ron was there and is the only remaining member of his outfit left. Very topical at the moment.
ANZAC day at Narooma has the dawn service and the 11am service. Many of our members will be attending in various rolls and I wish you well.
Thursday night is “fun with Maths “, should be a great night. See you then.
Cheers
Bob Ant
Michael O’Connor – more off than usual! (an article by Bob Antill)
Murphy give Michael some last minute instructions
While the dolphins in the movie Hitchhikers Guide sang “so long and thanks for all the fish” Narooma adventurer Michael O’Connor preferred another movie quote as he boarded the bus to Sydney saying: “I’ll be back”.
Rotarian Michael boarded the Premier bus to Sydney on Monday morning, the first leg of his great adventure to walk the 1,000 kilometres on the Bibbulmun Track from Albany to Perth in Western Australia.
Inspired by his late sister and supported by Narooma Rotary, Michael has spent the last six months raising money and training for this epic adventure. “Through the generosity of total strangers we have been able to raise $10,000 which will be equally shared between “Polio Plus” and “Friends of Rangi”.
Rotary’s goal to end Polio in the World is getting close. Twenty years ago there were many 100’s of thousands of cases in the World. Last year less than 30 cases were recorded worldwide. “Friends of Rangi” are helping build a library for the School they support in Kenya.
Funding the walk himself, Michael is satisfied in the knowledge that all the money raised is going to these two good causes and the wonderful folk of Narooma are supporting him all the way.
He’ll be back with many tales of his adventure.
Editor’s Note
Michael sent a short text to say that he was on his way and that he enjoyed his last breakfast in Narooma for a while with Bob and Merinda at Casey’s. Michael also tells me that he now realises that Bob is the most honest person he has ever met. Evidently Bob returned an envelope today to the Narooma Newsagency this morning after he accidently picked up en extra one last week when he purchased a card!
The Week that Was
As reported by President Bob, last week was another busy one for the Club with our Pride of Workmanship Awards Night and the April monthly market. The markets were a hive of activity with several new stall holders and plenty of buskers to keep us entertained. Gross takings included $1160.00 at the gate; $625.35 Van in the van and $158.95 from the wishing well.
Pride of Workmanship Awards (from a media release by Laurelle Pacey)
Narooma Rotary President Bob Antill, front left, presented Pride of Workmanship Awards last Thursday to Sally Ritchie, Sophie Taylor, Jenni Laughran, back left, Noel Bate, Leanne Drysdale, Karen Tasker and Nathan Adams. Narooma Rotary Vocational Director Laurelle Pacey is top left.
Seven Narooma businesses recognised valued employees at Narooma Rotary’s annual Pride of Workmanship Awards at a special dinner at The Whale on Thursday night.
Narooma Rotary President Bob Antill said Rotarians are proud of this program and the support it continues to receive from local businesses.
‘It offers them the opportunity to publicly acknowledge the efforts and contributions of particular employees to their businesses,’ he said.
MC Rotarian Lynda Ord described the prestigious event as ‘better than the Logies’.
‘Unlike the Logies, it’s not a competition and that’s its strength,’ she said. ‘Everyone nominated by their employer receives an award. ‘It gives employers a very positive way to acknowledge their appreciation for the contributions by individual staff members. We’re often uplifted in the way they describe their appreciation; their words are sometimes quite moving.’
Those who received awards this year were:
Sophie Taylor (Dalmeny Long Day Care)
Leanne Drysdale (Estia Health)
Karen Tasker (IRT Dalmeny)
Noel Bate (Narooma Motors)
Jenni Loughran (Tilba Real Dairy)
Sally Ritchie (Wagonga Street Medical Clinic
Nathan Adams (Whale Motor Inn).
Rotaract Outstanding Project Awards announced
A club in Sri Lanka earned top honors for a three-year project to revitalize a rural community, and six regional winners were recognized. Entries came from 52 countries this year. Click here to read the story.
The Week Ahead
This Thursday Bob Aston (the Editor) will entertain us with all things mathematical. You may like to try to solve this very old problem just to get your mind in the frame.
After a flood three married couples found themselves surrounded by water, and had to escape from their holiday hotel in a boat that would only carry three persons. Each husband was so jealous that he would not allow his wife to be in the boat or on the bank with any other man (or men) unless he himself was present.
Find a way of getting the couples across the water to safety which requires the smallest number of boat crossings. Swimming is not allowed and helicopters are not available.
In the good old days a mathematics teacher’s tools usually consisted of some chalk (dustless was a great invention), a metre rule and a text book. On special occasions the teacher would reward students with a film called ‘Donald in Mathmagic Land’. You can view it below. It was made in 1959.
Don’t forget to bring a calculator with you if you have one!
Some Humour – Thanks to Peter & Karen Bull and Di Lovatt
Smart Arse Answers
It was mealtime during a flight on a British Airways plane: “Would you like dinner?” the flight attendant asked the man seated in the front row.
“What are my choices?” the man asked.
“Yes or no,” she replied.
A lady was picking through the frozen Chickens at a Woolworths store but she couldn’t find one big enough for her family. She asked a passing assistant, “Do these Chickens get any bigger?”
The assistant replied, “I’m afraid not, they’re dead.”
The policeman got out of his car and the teenager he stopped for speeding rolled down his window “I’ve been waiting for you all day,” the Cop said.
The kid replied, “Well I got here as fast as I could.”
When the policeman finally stopped laughing, he sent the kid on his way without a ticket.
A truckie was driving along on a country road. A sign came up that read “Low Bridge Ahead.”
Before he realised it, the bridge was directly ahead and he got stuck under it.
Cars were backed up for miles. Finally, a police car arrived. The policeman got out of his car and walked to the lorry’s cab and said to the driver, “Got stuck, eh?”
The lorry driver said, “No, I was delivering this bridge and ran out of diesel!”
We have seven nominations for our annual Pride of Workmanship Awards which will be presented at a special dinner at The Whale (6 for 6.30) this Thursday.
It is a partners’ night and space might be tight, so please ensure you let Anthony know numbers by Tuesday night. (Two course meal with tea/coffee $32.)
This is a wonderful program which is greatly appreciated by many local businesses.
It gives them the opportunity, through Rotary, to acknowledge the efforts of their employees.
Hope to see you there.
Laurelle Pacey
The Big Walk
Shanna draws the winning ticket
As Michael prepares to head off on his walk he asked Shanna Provost to draw the raffle for the beautiful quilt that Donna made.
The winner was Marg Broadbent of Bega Rotary Club who bought her ticket at the Goulburn Conference.
Why is Rotary Investing in Zero and Beyond?
When was polio last in Europe? If you guessed 2002, the year the region was certified polio-free, you’re wrong. The last time polio affected a child in Europe was 2015. Outbreaks like the one that occurred in Ukraine that year are why, although we are so close to eradicating polio, we still need $1.5 billion more to finish the job. Learn about the steps needed to ensure polio is truly gone forever by clicking here.
Busking Championship
A message from Sandra
Just flagging that the judges for the Busking Championships will need accommodation for 26 and 27 May I would imagine that breakfast would be the only meals as Friday night they should be at Club Narooma watching The String Family and maybe at the Golf Club on Saturday night. They will be Rotarians. Could you all consider this please and advise me when able.
Oyster Festival
Don’t forget the Oyster Festival on 5 & 6 May. John has already emailed the roster to members and there are a few spaces still available. Please let John know if you can help.
If you want to know more about the festival, click here.
Some Humour (Thanks to the usual suspects)
Great confusions still unresolved
At a movie theatre, which arm rest is yours?
In the word scent, is “S” silent or “C”?
If people evolve from monkeys, why are monkeys still around?
Why is there a ‘D’ in fridge, but not in refrigerator?
Who knew what time it was when the first clock was made?
If pro and con are opposites, wouldn’t the opposite of progress be…con
Vagaries of English language!
Wonder why the word funeral starts with FUN?
Why isn’t a Fireman called a Water-man?
How come Lipstick doesn’t do what it says?
If money doesn’t grow on trees, how come Banks have Branches?
If a Vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a Humanitarian eat?
How do you get off a non-stop Flight?
Why are goods sent by ship called CARGO and those sent by truck SHIPMENT?
Why do we put cups in the dishwasher and the dishes in the Cupboard?
Why do doctors ‘practice’ medicine? Are they having practice at the cost of the patients?
How come Noses run and Feet smell?
Why do they call it a TV ‘set’ when there is only one?
A short Beacon this week as the Board has decided to cancel this week’s meeting as it falls at the start of Easter. Son please don’t turn up to the Golf Club this Thursday, you may have to eat alone.
The Week that Was
Last week was a Club Assembly meeting. We discussed a range of things including the placement of defibrillators (3 out of the 4 have been placed, one at Home Hardware, One at the Visitors’ Centre and the third at Bates Store at Central Tilba).
Lynda and Sandra also updated up on the resent RYDA workshop at Moruya Racecourse. From all reports, it was a great success, having a positive impact on all students involved. Lynda and Sandra reported that 85% of eligible Narooma High School students attended the event.
We also discussed the upcoming Oyster Festival. The food van will be in operation on Friday evening for a couple of hours and again on Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm – many hands are needed to help.
Bob Aston asked members to start to think about projects and priorities for the Club in 2017/18. Members were asked to complete a survey addressing these following questions.
What do you like best about our Club and would like to keep in 2017/18?
What would you change in the Club?
What would you like to ditch?
What projects would you like to see the Club involved in next Rotary year?
How would you further improve our meetings?
How can we better attract new members?
Please return your surveys at the 27 April meeting. All responses will be collated and considered by the new Board at a planning day to be held in early June.
Mal, Peter and Michael engaged in some high finance
The winners
Easter eggs: Frank
Red wine: Laurelle
White wine: Iris
Bread: Lynda
District Assembly
Just a reminder that the District Assembly is scheduled for 29 & 30 April. Click here to register. See below for a short You Tube clip from DGE Mark.
Pride of Workmanship at the Whale – A message from Laurelle
Next Thursday (20th) we will present the prestigious Pride of Workmanship Awards at a special dinner at The Whale (6 for 6.30). It is a partners’ night and space might be tight, so please ensure you let Anthony know numbers by Tuesday.
Most members are very proud of this program and the support it receives from local businesses.
It gives them the opportunity, through Rotary, to acknowledge the efforts of their employees.
Our MC Lynda Ord described the Awards night last year ‘as a very positive and uplifting experience where those who contribute so much to the success of local businesses and to our community are publicly acknowledged’.
‘What’s wonderful too is it is not a competition,’ she said. ‘Everyone nominated by their employers receives an award.’
Hope to see you there.
Some Humour (Thanks again to Di Lovatt)
The mother-in-law arrives home from shopping to find her son-in-law, Paddy in a steaming rage and hurriedly packing his suitcase. “What happened Paddy?” she asks anxiously.
“What happened? I’ll tell you what happened! I sent an email to my wife telling her I was coming home today from my fishing trip. I get home … and guess what I found? Your daughter, my wife, Jean, naked with Joe Murphy in our marital bed! This is unforgivable! The end of our marriage. I’m done. I’m leaving forever!”
“Ah now, calm down, calm down Paddy!” says his mother-in-law. “There is something very odd going on here. Jean would never do such a thing! There must be a simple explanation. I’ll go speak to her immediately and find out what happened.”
Moments later, the mother-in-law comes back with a big smile. “Paddy, there, I told you it must be a simple explanation…
More rain, however, I am glad we are not on the North Coast. Having covered a few floods, the worst at Nyngan, I feel for the people who are now throwing out the last of their soggy belongings to be burnt or sent to the tip. After a bush fire, you have nothing left but after a flood anything that has survived has to be destroyed, making it a double heart break.
As Rotarians we will be able to support the clubs on the ground, they will know what is needed and who needs it. Initial support will be financial, however, in the months ahead it could also be physical working as a volunteer. You never know, we may even be asked to host some families for a few days, just so they can get away from the devastation. Sometimes when a disaster happens we wonder what we can do to help I am sure that in some small way we will be able to help those who have experienced these horrific floods and cyclone.
I’m really happy with the way the move to the Golf Club has gone. We are being well looked after and the venue is very good. Please make sure that you swap seats each week so everyone is mixing about.
See you Thursday night
Bob Ant
Cyclone Debbie Appeal
On March 28, Cyclone Debbie a category 4 cyclone devastated areas from Bowen South to Mackay region, these communities which are located in Rotary D9550 and Rotary D9570 need assistance. An appeal has been set up to assist those in need following the aftermath of the cyclone. If you wish to donate to the appeal, click here.
The Week that Was
Whilst we were enjoying the comfort of the Narooma Golf Club last Thursday, Peter Bull and Karen were getting soaked trying to watch ‘Carmen’ on the Harbour. From all reports, it was a great show for the few minutes that it lasted. Unfortunately as soon as Peter was thoroughly soaked the extravaganza was called off!
Seventeen members along with our guest speaker, John Gillet, from the Moruya Club and Frank’s partner joined us for the meeting. Sandra updated us on all things youth as well as the upcoming Busking Competition. It sounds as though the competition will be a great success for the Club and Narooma. Remember to keep the last weekend in May free as we’ll all be needed to help on the Saturday for the competition and the Sunday for the market.
We also discussed the upcoming Oyster Festival and our involvement, especially on Friday 6 May selling glow sticks and the like. More information will be provided closer to the event.
Michael gave a quick update on his delayed walk. All systems are go for the walk to start just after ANZAC day, with food that Michael requires along the way posted off during the week. Fund raising has hit the $9000.00 mark, a wonderful effort. Hopefully the $10 000.00 target will be reached by the time Michael starts out.
Frank presents John with a Narooma Rotary mug following his presentation
Our guest speaker was John Gillett from the Moruya Club. John came along to tell us about Angel Flight. First off gave us a little of his life history as a policeman in the 60s and 70s in Sydney working around the Cross, with 21st Division and the Tactical Response Group. He was then encouraged to go and work in the bush by a colleague. Thinking he was going to Dubbo John said yes. Unfortunately he ended up in Bourke instead. It was in Bourke that John became interested in flying and he along with 4 others purchased a small plane. Over time John acquired the shares of the other partners and he has owned the plane outright for many, many years.
At one stage John was considering selling the plane and giving up flying. It was then that he heard about Angel Flight. He thought it was a great initiative and decided to get involved.
Angel Flight is available to fly people in rural and remote areas who need non-urgent medical treatment in larger centres such as Sydney and Canberra. The two criteria to access Angel Flight are remoteness and lack of finance. All pilots and ground angels are volunteers and there is no cost to those who use the service. All funds raised go to support 6 employees who manage the service.
Angel Flight is supported by Mobil who supply fuel, CASA who waive aviation charges and many local councils who waive landing fees.
Angel Flight has flown over 16 000 missions with 2500 volunteer pilots clocking up more than 75 000 hours in the air.
The winners
M&Ms John Rungen (42)
M&Ms Mike Young (11)
White wine Bob Aston (47)
Red wine Laurelle Pacey (4)
The Week Ahead
As this week’s meeting falls on the first Thursday of the month we will have a Club Assembly followed by a Board meeting.
The main topic for the Assembly will be planning for the 2017/18 Narooma Rotary year. As the incoming president, I would like members to think about responses to these questions;
What do you like about Narooma Rotary and would like to keep in 2017/18?
What don’t you like about Narooma Rotary and would like to ditch in 2017/18?
What would you like to change in the Club?
I would also like members to think about what projects and activities the Club can support in 2017/18.
Driven to Serve
What do you get when a handful of young leaders put their heads together and “dream big?” Apparently, you get a 14-city, 2,400-mile road trip that provides 2,500 hours of service by more than 500 volunteers. The Connecting for Good Tour of the American West Coast was organized by San Francisco Rotary member Danielle Lallement, and inspired by brainstorming that took place at a Young Professionals Summit in 2014. Read more about the massive Rotary road trip, click here.
Last week was a bit of a horror one. Between rain storms I helped with some mowing and drove school buses to help out and to cover for people having to attend funerals.
Yesterday (Saturday) I started the week photographing a wedding in bright sunshine and this morning our markets were blessed with blue skies, let’s hope it is a sign for a bright week ahead.
Sandra with Shania in the van at the markets
Thank you to John and Sandra for getting the van in on Saturday and Michael and Frank for marking out in the long grass.
To David and Rachel thank you for filling in on the gate at the market.
John and Sandra, Joan, Angie, John Rungen, Frank, Mal, David (again), Lynn, Michael, Shania (a Narooma High Yr 12 Student) and myself all pitched in to help at the van, making light work of a big task – thank you everyone. Michael took around the bucket and raised another $150.00 for his walk.
A good day was made great when the Formula One grand prix in Melbourne was ready to commence and Liz Cherry, back by the Army Band, sang the National Anthem. Liz is Charmaine’s daughter and as usual she nailed the performance.
This week I hope to get the defibrillators out and happening.
Our application for the Oyster Festival is in, add the Friday night and Saturday to your calendars, more on this when Chris gets back.
Have a great week, see you on Thursday night.
Bob Ant
The Week that Was
(Thanks to Peter Bull for the meeting report and Sandra Doyle for the photos)
There were 14 members and 4 guests at last week’s meeting. Guests included Jess Callaghan & Brittany Harrington from the university of Canberra, Angela McMillan from the Eurobodalla Shire Council and Iris.
Peter Hartley with Mal Gray and President Bob
The meeting was chaired by John Doyle. Present Bob inducted Mal Gray into the club after he transferred from Tumut, where he was a member for 21 years. Present Bob reported that the Goulburn Rotary club had refunded our cheque for $200 as their Nepal building project was abandoned. The club agreed to donate these funds to the Asher foundation, another Nepal project.
Sandra Doyle that reported that she attended the busking competition held at Ballarat last week and was able to promote our busking competition to be held in May. Her granddaughter Shelby was a winner on the weekend as was Sandra, who won the raffle.
Raffle results: bread (32) – Angie; food back (1) – guest Jess; white wine (4) – Sandra; red wine (15) – Michael O’Connor.
Learner Driver Mentor Program – Jess Callaghan and Brittany Harrington
Jess and Brittany are final year students at Canberra University completing a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy. There final placement is in this project sponsored by the PC YC and the Eurobodalla Shire (Y Drive Program). The Y Drive program has been developed to assist disadvantaged youth in the Eurobodalla area to acquire the 120 hours of driving experience they require to get their provisional license. Disadvantaged or disengaged youth (not working or studying) obviously find it hard to obtain a driver’s license. This causes social and economic disadvantage and, through the help of driver mentor volunteers, this pilot project hopes to provide these opportunities to 20 youths to be chosen from applicants. Jess pointed out that while 70% of young people in New South Wales have driver’s licences, less than 50% of Indigenous youths have a licence.
The International toast was to the RC club of Sheffield, D1270, UK, who together with the support of 12 other founding member clubs on six continents, formed the Sustainability Trust
The Objectives of the Trust are:
To create a forum that shares ideas on how to introduce Sustainable Principles into our own lives, our businesses, our communities and our Rotary Club projects.
To encourage the 1.2 million Rotarians to understand the implications of using non-renewable resources on the lives of future generations and on the climate of our planet.
To provide suggestions on principles and products that Rotary Clubs can promote to reduce the use of non-renewable resources by their Club members, their communities and in their humanitarian projects.
To point Rotarians to humanitarian projects that are already being supported by Rotary Clubs, which meet the aims of the Trust by using sustainable systems, renewable energy and locally supported programmes.
To provide ideas and inspiration to Rotary Club members that will enable them to reduce their use of products that are made from non-renewable resources.
To provide a carbon calculator that enables Rotarians to calculate their carbon emissions and donate to a Rotary Club project that removes the carbon emissions their activity has created.
To link together all 33,784 Rotary Clubs world-wide into an internet-based support website that promotes these ideas and principles.
To offer help and guidance to Rotarians, using the Trust’s world-wide network of internet-based contacts, on how their Clubs can achieve these aims.
The Trust slogan is – What is the 5th Test in the Four-Way-Test? Is it Sustainable?
Australian clubs who have joined the project include:
Margaret River D9460 AUS
Buderim – D9600 AUS February 2013
Naracoorte – D9780 AUS June 2010
Ryde – D9685 AUS September 2014
Erina – D9685 AUS February 2015
Redcliffe City- D9600 AUS May 2015
The Market Report
Once again a very successful market was held on Sunday. Bob Antill reports that the Wishing Well collected $85.55, the van made $535.50 and $785.00 was collected at the gate.
Eurobodalla Shire Council have asked the Club to submit and EOI for a licence to conduct the market for the next 5 years. Thanks to Laurelle, Chris and Rod who have put the EOI together and submitted it to Council.
Drawing Connections
In St. Joseph, Michigan, USA, Rotary members have been matching high school students with mentors in their dream careers, providing valuable guidance as they explore their options after graduation. The exposure to community service has led students to start Interact clubs at six local schools, and has cemented the club’s connections with its community. Meet some of the students helped by the program and the members behind it all. Click here to read the article.
The Week Ahead
This week I understand that we are to get an update on the ‘Angel Flight Program’. Angel Flight Australia is a charity which coordinates non-emergency flights to assist country people to access specialist medical treatment that would otherwise be unavailable to them because of vast distance and high travel costs. Click here to see some videos about Angel Flight.
RYDA
The annual RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness) will be held for Narooma High students next Tuesday 4 April 2017. Youth Coordinators Lynda and Sandra desperately need a volunteer to help out on the day, so if you can help out please make contact.
RYDA is now conducted by an organisation called Road Safety Education. If you want to know more about the organisation click here. If you want to know more about Rotary’s involvement click here.
Welcome rain this week resulted in a quick change of venue for our BBQ meeting – back to the Golf Club (which they handled magnificently at such short notice).
Merinda taking about the mentor program
Many thanks to Merinda who at the last minute came along to talk about the National Music Teacher Mentoring program and sang a few songs, which made the night. Although small in numbers, I think everyone enjoyed themselves.
The Cancer Council Relay For Life was well supported despite the rain. Fortunately, the rain held off on Sunday morning long enough for us to feed the hordes over breakfast. We grossed $370 plus. That was after we gave a $50 donation and covered our expenses. On Saturday, the Lions handled lunch and Sunday morning (early) John Doyle, Bob Aston, Angie, Lynn, Peter Hartley, Mike Young and myself kept the bacon and eggs going for the masses while Rolfe was swamped making coffee. A job well done and top marks to the organisers of this wonderful event. I’m sure they are going to make good money for a very worthy cause.
Lynda and Ashley had to dash north on Thursday and made it just in time to say “goodbye” to Ash’s mother. Our thoughts as they are with Michael and Donna. It is not an easy time.
John Doyle has a few holes in the roster for next week’s markets, if you have a little time to spare please let him know.
Have a great and safe week
Bob
The Week that Was
Ange, Mike Young, Rolf and Peter Hartley do a lap at Relay for life
Last Thursday we changed venue at very short notice due to the rain. Only 9 members and 3 guests made it to the meeting with the weather, golf trips, holidays, family emergencies and illness and injury contributing to the high absentee rate. As Bob has indicated Merinda came to the rescue at the last movement to keep us entertained as our guest speaker and performer – thank you Merinda for a great evening. As well as Merinda, we were honoured to have Iris and Julie Hartley as guests.
Last Sunday morning the club provided breakfast at the Eurobodalla Relay for Life, as Bob has indicated we were kept busy feeding participants and spectators with high quality bacon and eggs.
Busking Competition
Sandra and the team continue to do a great job organising the Australian National Busking Regional Championship at Narooma. Please keep 27 May free as the committee will need all hands-on deck to help. (And don’t forget the markets on 28 May). Have a look at the great clip advertising the Championship.
The Week Ahead
This week our guest speaker will discuss the Learner Driver Mentor Program – unfortunately I have no information to share with you about the program so Thursday night should be a surprise.
And don’t forget our monthly market this Sunday.
Some Trivia – From Di Lovett via Peter & Karen Bull
Why do men’s clothes have buttons on the right while women’s clothes have buttons on the left?
Because when buttons were invented, they were very expensive and worn primarily by the rich. Since most people are right-handed, it is easier to push buttons on the right through holes on the left. Because wealthy women were dressed by maids, dressmakers put the buttons on the maid’s right! And that’s where women’s buttons have remained since.
Why do ships and aircraft use ‘mayday’ as their call for help?
Because this comes from the French word m’aidez – meaning ‘help me’ – and is pronounced, approximately, ‘mayday.’
Why are zero scores in tennis called ‘love’?
Because in France, where tennis became popular, the round zero on the scoreboard looked like an egg and was called ‘l’oeuf,’ which is French for ‘the egg.’ When tennis was introduced in the US, Americans (naturally), mispronounced it ‘love.’
Why do X’s at the end of a letter signify kisses?
Because in the Middle Ages, when many people were unable to read or write, documents were often signed using an X. Kissing the X represented an oath to fulfill obligations specified in the document. The X and the kiss eventually becamesynonymous.
Why is shifting responsibility to someone else called passing the buck’?
Because in card games, it was once customary to pass an item, called a buck,from player to player to indicate whose turn it was to deal. If a player did not wish to assume the responsibility of dealing, he would ‘pass the buck’ to the next player.
Why do people clink their glasses before drinking a toast?
Because in earlier times it used to be common for someone to try to kill an enemy by offering him a poisoned drink. To prove to a guest that a drink was safe, it became customary for a guest to pour a small amount of his drink into the glass of the host. Both men would drink it simultaneously. When a guest trusted his host, he would only touch or clink the host’s glass with his own.
Why are people in the public eye said to be ‘in the limelight’?
Invented in 1825, limelight was used in lighthouses and theatres by burning a cylinder of lime which produced a brilliant light. In the theatre, a performer ‘in the limelight’ was the Centre of attention.
Why is someone who is feeling great ‘on cloud nine’?
Because types of clouds are numbered according to the altitudes they attain, with nine being the highest cloud. If someone is said to be on cloud nine, that person is floating well above worldly cares.
In golf, where did the term ‘Caddie’ come from?
Because when Mary Queen of Scots went to France as a young girl, Louis, King of France, learned that she loved the Scots game ‘golf.’ He had the first course outside of Scotland built for her enjoyment. To make sure she was properly chaperoned (and guarded) while she played, Louis hired cadets from a military school to accompany her.
Mary liked this a lot and when she returned to Scotland (not a very good idea in the long run), she took the practice with her. In French, the word cadet is pronounced ‘ca-day’ and the Scots changed it into caddie.
Why are many coin collection jar banks shaped like pigs?
Because long ago, dishes and cookware in Europe were made of dense orange clay called ‘pygg’. When people saved coins in jars made of this clay, the jars became known as ‘pygg banks.’ When an English potter misunderstood the word, hemade a container that resembled a pig. And it caught on.
