The lack of meetings has not meant lack of activity. The first Rotary Community Group gathering for Presidents was held Saturday 3rd August, in Geraldine, which I attended along with Presidents from Lincoln, Ashburton, Ashburton Plains, Temuka/Geraldine and Waimate clubs. This was our first under the new “Regionalization structure” and was a valuable “learning day”.
This was the same day as Gary Rushworth’s very successful and enjoyable “Yorkshire Day” which was attended by several members and partners. “Beer and a Curry” was the theme with Gary producing 8 home brews for the occasion.
At the recent Charitable Trust meeting, Greg Sugrue was elected as Chairperson, and new Trustees Russell Finlay and Chris Visagie were welcomed.
The Wednesday “Wood team” continue to collect and process wood supplies each Wednesday, and I can attest to their dedication as some of these mornings it has been VERY cold.
It was great to catch-up again this last Tuesday, after a gap in our scheduled meetings. We welcomed Peter Jordan to his third meeting with us, as a prospective member, and we heard from our newest member, Shayne Broughton as he shared his “job talk” with us. Most interesting. Shayne spent 24yrs in the Police Force, 12yrs frontline, prior to moving into Liquor Licensing, then as a Contractor working with International NGOs for 6yrs until COVID intervened. He now works in Real Estate and was able to update and answer questions on the status of real estate. Shayne is also a Rotary Alumini, having travelled to Denmark & Lithuania 17 yrs ago as part of a Group Study Exchange, with his focus on Policing in Denmark.
Lionel & I attended the Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Excellence Awards last Friday evening. With my “other hat” as CPlay Secretary on, I was so proud to be part of the CPlay team as we were awarded the “Community Award”, and even more, as in his acceptance speech, OJ, (CPlay Chairperson) Listed and thanked the major sponsors, so our Rotary club, as one of those, got mentioned. With approx. 400 people in attendance, it was a showcase, recognition and celebration of some amazing businesses and community groups. The CPlay playground was recently recognized with an award as “Best Playground in NZ” as well.
This week we have an extra meeting scheduled, with our District Governor, Dave McKissock and his wife Margaret, on his official visit to our club. Dave is a former Timaruvian, growing up and attending school here, now living in Invercargill, but with family links still in Timaru. He loves catching up, and we welcome our past and Honorary members as well as partners to attend – just let our Secretary – Lionel – know and he will add you to our numbers.
