Peter Antaw, Youth reported that the RYLA programme was underway, with Ranald, Maggie and Rhondda attending the official dinner that night. He also mentioned Rotary’s relationships with the University of NSW and CSIRO, and was looking to extend these relationships to Macquarie and Sydney Universities.
Ian Burnett, International spoke to 3 projects: PNG where 100 desks had been built on site for a school, with more to come; Indonesia where, in conjunction with the Rotary Club of West Pennant Hills, and supported by a global grant of $150k, 100 water tanks and toilets had been provided; and Nepal, where our $5,000 donation had provided for medical equipment.
David Perabo, Fundraising spoke to the following major projects: Fireworks, where we need to identify a major project that will be the recipient of the proceeds; Bookstall to continue but location in Plaza unknown; Comedy for a Cause to be held in fourth quarter; and BBQs.
Therese Stubbs, Foundation highlighted three matters: member donations helped the Club build points to support Paul Harris awards; Centurion donations should be made before the end of the financial year; and she would like nominations for Paul Harris Fellow awards by April.
Helen Gulson, Club Service reported on possible events planned for the next six months being: Tina Turner Show and a Guided Tour of the Sydney Modern Art Gallery. She also advised that Ros Virtue has volunteered to take on the role of Attendance Officer.
Peter Grinter, Community Service reported as follows: the Tree of Joy had received over 350 gifts, with 2 bags of gifts remaining which, on Bob Edwards’ suggestion, were now to go to Ukrainian children in Australia; the CPR and First Aid programme driven by Eleanor was a great success and would be repeated again in 2023; and an environmental project was still on the drawing board. He then said the relationship with Greenway Towers was progressing with recent developments being: they would like to arrange bus trips to areas of Sydney for their residents (Peter McNair to assist); the rat problem is easing but $2000 needed to repair wiring (Joe Campisi advised members to spray car tyres with WD40 to prevent rat damage!); and the State Government had agreed to fund a nurse to enable a Medical Centre to be established there. Finally, Eleanor mentioned that Streetwork’s major fundraising dinner on Saturday 4 February, 6.30pm. She encouraged members to attend or make up a table.
John Bolton, Treasurer updated members on the Club’s three accounts: the Club Account is a worry, and dues may have to increase; the Charity Account is very healthy at $100k, and we should be looking for a new project; and the SEE Account, managed by Peter Antaw and Valda Andrews, is gradually reducing at $27k.
Fay Petrou, Membership advised she had two potential new members, one a current NGC member, the other coming from RI.
Promotion - in Jon Gidney’s absence, Peter Russell advised that promotion of the Fireworks should start soon.
Liz Grey, Secretary informed members of the sort or work that keeps her busy that they may not be aware of: statutory reporting following our AGM; and changes to our Constitution.
Sally O'Neill
