Rotary Club of Woodend

Recent and Past Activities

Thu 31/1/13

Sat 26/1/13

Thu 24/1/13

Thu 17/1/13

Mike Dornau, 1st Lieutenant of Woodend CFA spoke on fire plans, safety places and evacuation issues.  Fires can start in numerous ways, but worst of all by animals with two legs.  Mike outlined key aspects of fire behaviour, leading to the importance of having a fire plan and heeding warnings.  He noted that Woodend is in the Top 50 fire prone towns in the State.  Buffalo Stadium is designated as a safer place, but only as a last resort.  Timely evacuation is a much safer option.

Thu 20/12/12

Members and friends gathered at the Tylden Harvester for Christmas Dinner.  Guests included ADG Gabrielle Morgan and Krishna, Krishta and Sharad Pun from Nepal.  Krishna was awarded Honorary Membership of the Club in recognition of his service to the Nepali Village Initiatives Project.  A good way to finish off the Club's year!

Thu 13/12/12

Peter Hall became the last-minute speaker for the evening, introducing Krishna Pun who had arrives from Nepal just the day before.  Peter ran through a presentation on the Nepal project which he recently gave at Kyneton Rotary Club.  Peter and Krishna will give a similar presentation at a number of Rotary clubs in Tasmania, Victoria and NSW over the next two months.

Thu 6/12/12

Our meeting was held at the home of Peter and Ronda Hall at Spring Hill where Rhys Goodey and Rizal of Ark Wine Agencies treated us to tastings of seven French and one Spanish wine.  Although only 14 members/partners attended, all agreed that others had missed a good evening.  A small profit of $50 was passed on the the Nepal project.

Thu 29/11/12

Peter Hall explained that Krishna Pun, scheduled speaker for the evening, had been further delayed by his visa application from Nepal and is now expected in Australia on 12 Dec.  Peter there upon launched into Member Behind the Badge, tracing his life from his birth in Mont Albert - then an outer eastern suburb of Melbourne - in 1938.  He described the strong influence that scouting had had on his life, starting as a cub at 1st Mont Albert and progressing to scouts, venturers and rovers with 1st Hawthorn (Scotch College).  It was at a Rover Reunion in 1992 that the suggestion was put forward for a trek to Nepal.  This eventuated in 1993, leading Peter to return visits in 1998, 2001, 2008, 2009 and 2012.  These formed the basis of the Nepali Village Initiatives Project, sponsored by the Club and registered with RAWCS.  Meantime Peter pursued a career of engineering followed by management consulting, during which he participated in the development of major IT systems, one for the Postmaster General's Department (later Telstra), the other for Public Works Department Vic.  Marriage to Ronda in 1970 led to three daughters and later nine grandchildren.  A progressive retirement from consulting gave way to twelve years breeding cattle at Spring Hill, now leading to down-sizing to a one-acre block in Trentham

Thu 22/11/12

Malcolm Duffield drew our attention to The Wonders of Technology with  a very philosophical, high level, and thought provocative session.  He lead off with revelations from a 2006 video reminding us of the pace of technological change (www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVQ1ULfQawk) - presenting an already out-dated view.  He noted that Moore's law propounded in the 1960's - that computer processing power would double while costs halved every eighteen months - still holds true today.  Malcolm traced the evolution of data processing from 60 years ago followed by data communications and networking.  He noted the concept of the Noosphere put forward by a Jesuit priest 80 years ago as a "sphere of human thought" - something that is fast taking shape with modern social networking.  Malcolm pointed to technology evolution outpacing biological evolution, describing web pages and blogs as "old school technology" and pointing to the need for our Club to recognise and take advantage of the new communications paradigms. A challenge for us all! 

Thu 15/11/12

Thu 8/11/12

Thu 1/11/12

Sharon Simpson joined us to describe the ordeal for her son Jack and her entire family as a result of Jack contracting first Multiple Sclerosis and then Cancer.  The ordeal began in 1990 when Jack was 8 years old.  A call from school alerted Sharon to the fact that Jack was not well.  Only when she witnessed a second siezure some days later did they started to appreciate the seriousness of the situation - a melt-down of the central nervous system, striking out of the blue.  Diagnosis of MS did not occur until 10 months later, leading to intensive (and discomforting) treatment.  Two years after the original siezure, lumps were noticed in Jack's groin and neck.  As if MS wasn't enough, these turned out to be cancer.  So Jack became unique in receiving concurrent drug treatment for both MS and cancer.

Throughout his illness the contrast between Jack and his healthy twin brother Vincent only accentuated the difficulties they were facing.  But both Sharon and Jack were sustained by their religious faith, attributing his restoration to comparatively good health, free of both MS and cancer, to the intervention of St Mary MacKillop.  Altogether a truly moving story for our members to hear.

Thu 25/10/12

Six members from RC Kyneton joined us as their members participated in scatter meetings in lieu of their normal meeting - groups of members visiting various different clubs.  A good opportunity to see how other clubs operate, as make-up visits are not so common these days.  After numerous items of club business in Time-on-Air, we broke into Committee Groups.  Finished with our regular egg auction, raising over $80 for Cleft Palate operations in Bangladesh.  

Thu 18/10/12

Recently inducted Preeti Helena introduced us first to the concept of systems, starting with the systems of nature including the cosmos, then moving to the systems of the aborigines as recorded in their dream-time stories.  From this she led us into the process of Systems Constellations.  This is a process developed by a German priest based on understanding of the ancestor reverence of the South African Zulus.  Widely known as Family Constellations, the process involves externalising inner images, acknowledging situations and how they develop.   Originally focussed on family situations, the process is now used to address organizational, community, and social systems.  Preeti spoke of her experiences using the system with Aboriginals of Yuendumu, 350 km NW of Alice Springs, having been invited by the local Conflict Resolution Coordinator.  After working with women she addressed the challenge of working with young men by showing how the system might be used as a tool to win the next grand final!  

Thu 11/10/12

Allan and Shirley Cann inspired us with descriptions of their Business Development Projects in the Cook and Solomon Islands.  Both entail taking business experts from Australia to train local business people.  The goal: to use the considerable business and professional expertise of Australians for the benefit of less developed countries on an ongoing basis.  Allan and Shirley have participated in all the trips to date at their own expense.  The Rotary Club of Wendouree funded air fares and accommodation expenses for other participants for the Cook Islands program which has operated over the past four years, Participants were selected according to needs expressed by the Rotary Club of Roratonga and local business people.  Expenses of participants in a similar program for the Solomon Islands have been funded by Australian Business Volunteers.  Initiated by the Australian Government in 1981, ABV  is a non-government, not-for-profit international development agency that exists to contribute towards the alleviation of poverty in developing communities and contribute towards their sustainable growth.  Allan and Shirley have worked with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce to develop a Strategic Plan.  Their aim now is to ensure that the program provides ongoing support rather than one-off programs, with the goal of extending it to other Pacific Island countries.  They hope to achieve this through building partnerships with Rotary Clubs and others.

Sat 6/10

Six Woodend members assisted with the Artist for Orphans Art Auction at Kyneton Racecourse, raising funds for orphans in Vietnam.  More than $15,000 was raised in a very successful night.  Many other volunteers assisted, including a number of Kyneton Rotarians.

Thu 4/10

District Governor Denis Shore visited the Club with his wife Lynda.  Confirming the Rotary Theme for the year of Peace through Service, Denis went on to present 13 challenges to the Club:
1.  Live the theme of Peace through Service
2.  As a meaning ful contribution, support a young person to attend the Hiroshima Peace Conference next year
3.  Continue to attract and retain new members

4.  Undertake a Club Visioning program and develop a Strategic Plan.
5.  Have members attend the Rotary Leadership Institute Training course.
6.  Make the Club welcoming of which he acknowledged it already is.
7.  Support the Rotary Foundation.
8.  Support and become involved in Rotarians at Work Day.
9.  Participate as Rotary Volunteers at the City 2Sea Fun Run on November 11 (several of our members have committed to go)
10. Seek a Rotary International Presidential Citation.
11. Ensure that by looking within we support the core values of Rotary
12. Support the Club leadership.
13. Lastly and importantly attend the District Conference in Albury in 2013 which will include golf, bridge and a Rotary’s Got Talent competition.
Then followed the highlight of the evening, the induction by DG Denis and President Miranda of four new members: Josephine Falzarano, Preeti Helena, Malcolm Duffield and Marco van Pagee.  How many Clubs give the DG the opportunity to share in the growth of the strength of Rotary in such a great way. Adding to Allan Cann, Les Eastcott, Diana Edwards and John Williamson who have joined us this year, they have carried our membership to 29, in addition to our 8 much respected Honorary Members.

Thu 27/9

Judith-Ann Robertson visited us with her partner Brian Ashen.  Both Judith and Brian have been practising Buddhists for 45 years.  Judith spoke of Tibet: the country's long and ancient history, and the hardships endured since the Chinese invasion in 1949.  Tibetan culture is repressed with substantial prison sentences for mere possession of photographs of the Tibetan flag or the Dalai Lama.  The Chinese have exploited the resources of the country to disastrous effect, and only now are curtailing activities such as de-forestation.  What other countries in the world accept payment for licences to hunt endangered species?.  A more detailed summary of Judith's talk appears in our Bulletin.

Brian followed Judith with an account of Buddhism in Australia including reference to his role in establishing the Buddhist Council of Victoria in 1995 and later the Federation of Australian Buddhist Councils, with which he is still active.  He mentioned the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion which is under construction near Bendigo.  It will be 50 metres (164 feet) square at its base and nearly 50 metres high, making it the largest stupa in the Western World.  The Stupa is expected to reach lock up stage when all balustrades, walls, stairs and windows to Level 6 are completed by early 2013. Visitors are welcome to view progress - open 9 – 5 on weekdays and 10.30- 5 weekends and publuc holidays.

Thu 20/9

Rotarian John Damrow, Consumer Council member of the Stroke Foundation, spoke of his personal experience of a major stroke eight years ago at the age of 42.  It occurred as he arrived at work after a regular morning gym session.  Lack of exercise was not his risk factor, but blood pressure was - around 200.  After intensive care he spent 10 months in rehabilitation.  Even now he detects progressive improvement, such as his recent ability to walk up steps without holding the handrail.  John described strokes as blockages or bleeding affecting the blood supply to the brain.  He outlined the many factors that contribute to them including blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, diabetes and many more.  Exercise and healthy eating are important preventives.  But John's strongest message was FAST.  This encompassed the most usual signs of strokes: Facial distortion including drooping of the mouth; Arms unable to lift or move normally; and Speech which may become slurred.  These all point to the importance of Time - fast response is essential as treatment must start within 4.5hrs if it is to have much chance of success.  So if you see a person who shows any such symptoms, call 000 immediately.

Thu 13/9

Robin de Crespigny, author of The People Smuggler: The True Story of Ali Al Jenabi, 'the Oskar Schindler of Asia', addressed a large attendance of members and visitors.  As a first book, it draws attention to major issues of our society, not least the the mythology that has been built up about so-called "illegal" immigrants by both sides of politics.  Among the facts to which she drew our attention were:
* Australia has an obligation to receive and assess applications for refuge - people fleeing persecution have done nothing illegal
* 97% of refugees to this country arrive legitimately and safely, yet the small proportion of boat arrivals attract all the publicity
* those seeking to flee are forced to obtain false passports, but can afford only those of a quality that would be readily detected in Australia which would lead to immediate deportation, so it is no wonder that they throw their passports into the sea
*  no-one pays $10,000 to be smuggled into this country by sea - if they had that sort of money they would spend it on better quality false identification and air tickets
* less than 50% of refugee arrivals in Australia are Muslim, with significant numbers of Christians, Buddhists, Hindus and others
* refugees arriving in Indonesia are destitute - one of the few opportunities to earn money is to participate in "people smuggling" operations, to get themselves and others to a more permanent destination
* Ali al Jenabi, despite his clear sense of justice and social responsibility, remains detained in Villawood as neither side of politics is prepared to acknowledge the unjust nature of his treatment.
It is to be hoped that Robin's book will contribute to a change of understanding in the Australian community of the plight of refugees, their options and how Australia should respond.

Thu 6/9

Mike McFarlane, Chair of the District Vocational Committee, explained the District's goals for this avenue of service.  It is all about harnessing the vocational expertise of Rotarians in service, exemplified by the Sumba Eye Program of the Rotary Clubs of Glenferrie and Kew in conjunction with the Sumba Foundation and the Royal College of Surgeons.  Commenced in 2007, this has entailed teams of optometrists and eye surgeons visiting Sumba, Indonesia to serve the local community.  The vocational program seeks to address the big issues of society including education, health, unemployment, food and water.  Mike encouraged club participation, indicating the DG's support in giving Vocational Awards.

Thu 30/8

Councillor Helen Relph, retiring Macedon Ranges South Ward Councillor and former Mayor, joined us to speak of Council into the Future.  She emphasised the need for diversity of membership in Councils, with "recycled" Councillors bringing an array of historical knowledge important to the continuity of local government, but also the need for youth representation to ensure that the whole spectrum of the community is represented.  She also spoke of the high ratio of volunteers in the Macedon Ranges as compared to other regions in Victoria, noting however that they tend to be the older inhabitants.  Finally she recommended Council membership and the rewards it can bring to both the individual and the community.

Thu 23/8

The meeting started with presentation of a cheque to school captains of Woodend Primary School for the installation of drinking taps at the oval.  Larry Quick and Andrew Wilson-Aannan then addressed the meeting on "Great Place Woodend".  Great Place is a concept developed by Larry, aiming to foster strong local communities.  It is outlined at the website www.greatplaceaustralia.com.au.  Woodend has been chosen as a pilot for developing the concept, with Andrew taking on the role of Coordinator.  Their aim is to focus on eight areas of community thinking and action - social, economic, energy, ecology, aesthetic, knowledge, transportation and built form - and to assist those communities to "own their own future".  Some Club members indicated a degree of scepticism, though the discussion was welcomed with interest.

Thu 16/8

Kristina Nelson and Paula Speed joined us to bring us up to date on the Mothers Day Classic fun run raising money for Breast Cancer research.  These runs were initiated by Women in Super in 1998.  They're now held around the country in10 cities and 53 regional areas.  This year there were 125,000 participants nationally, contributing over $4m. to cancer research and bringing the total raised to $14.8m. 1998.  Melbourne, Ballarat and Bendigo have hosted events in past years.  This year Kristina, Paula, Alison Still and their team decided to fill in the gap with Macedon Ranges, hoping to attract 200 participants.  A great deal of organising went into the event, gathering support from a range of sources including RC Woodend - we provided communications assistance and marshals on the day.  3km and 6km course options were defined.  The outcome far exceeded expectations, with 503 registrants contributing over $9,500 from registration fees, sausage sizzle, vanilla slices, raffle, show bags and merchandise.  Feedback was very positive, both for the attractiveness of the course and the excellence of organisation.  Sufficient to ensure that this will now be an annual event in the Macedon Ranges, with hopes for double the number of participants next year.

Thu 9/8

Richard Bills, Exec. Med. Officer, Central Highlands General Practice Network spoke of health issues generally, health in Woodend and developments in Australian health care.  He noted a shift from years past when heart disease and stroke were the greatest concerns to increasing prevalence of diabetes (often not diagnosed), cancers (notably prostate, breast, bowel and lung) and infectious diseases (notably influenza and chlamydia).  He noted that Australia a) has the highest cure rate for breast cancers (due to screening programs); b) is second behind USA for life longevity; and c) is also second in the world for obesity.  Other topics included a) reduction in smoking - down to 15% and likely to reduce further as the industry becomes less economic leading to a reduction in ready availability of cigarettes; b)  dramatic reductions in infectious diseases due to immunisation (and the gentle persuasion of those who refuse them); c) increase of allergies due to excessively sterile environments (children brought up in homes with two or more pets coming inside have 1/6 the incidence of asthma).  Closing remarks covered developments in Australian healthcare including Personally Controlled Electronic Health Records (PCEHR) currently being launched by the Australian government; Medicare Locals serving the health of their local populations; and having a "Medical Home" linking a person's health care providers (conventional and complementary).

Thu. 2/8

Thu. 26/7

A Club Committees night allowed discussion in committee groups of plans for the coming year.  Committees have now been established for Community, International, New Generations, Public Relations, Vocational Service and Welcoming / Induction.  Recommendations from the Committees will be put to the Board for consideration. .

Thu. 19/7

Marco van Pagee spoke with enthusiasm about the forthcoming Macedon Ranges Spring Music Festival to be held at Taradale and Malmsbury, August 24-26.  The Festival, which will include Master Classes, is intended to foster young musicians of the region from Gisborne to Ballarat to Bendigo.  Marco foresees this festival complementing other seasonal music festivals in the region including the Woodend Winter Arts Festival, a Daylesford Summer Program coming in 2013 and the autumn Castlemaine Festival.  President Miranda Bain presented Marco with a cheque for $1,000 to support his efforts.

ADG Gabrielle Morgan then joined with President Miranda Bain to induct John Williamson as our newest member.  Welcome John!

Thu. 12/7

Kerry Kornhauser, recent President of Albert Park, spoke to Women in Rotary. Starting with the observation that 83% of Australian Rotarians are men, and that people still mistakenly think of Rotary as a men's organisation, Kerry described how the movement for Women in Rotary that she initiated is gathering momentum, not only here in Australia but around the world.  Highlights have included the International Women's Day Breakfast which attracted 750 people this year (40% of them men!), and for which 1,500 attendees are targeted next year.  This year will see the introduction on 1 September of "Share a Smile Day", with smiles on sticks being distributed at railway stations and elsewhere.  There's also the opportunity to support Strength in Numbers, a Rotary Club of Melbourne project supporting homeless and disadvantaged women.  Kerry showed that if you have inspiration for a cause, you can make things happen, and Rotarians respond.

Thu. 5/7

Rebecca Putland, Health Communities Project Officer with Macedon Ranges Shire Council, spoke of Macedon Ranges participation in the Federal Government funded Healthy Active program.  Around 100 municipalities across Australia were invited to take part over three phases, MRSC being in the second phase.  We gained that funding from the regrettable fact that obesity is higher in the Macedon Ranges than across Victoria generally.  The funding supports programs targeting healthy lifestyles including physical activity and healthy eating.   They cover a variety of initiatives including Austcycle (building confidence and teaching bike riding skills); Strength for Health (a beginners fitness training program); Live Well, Be Well, Stay Well (an eight week program on healthy living and exercise); Heart Foundation Walking (social walking groups); Lifeball (a fun team game similar to netball and basketball); Cooking for One or Two (meal preparation for singles and couples).

Thu. 28/6

A Club Forum discussed issues about the Club and its future.  Opinions were expressed about the need for an orientation and mentoring program for new members, the role of Committee Meetings, and the place of Rotary traditions and protocols.

Sat. 23/6

Almost 70 Rotarians and friends attended the annual Changeover Dinner at the Bentink.  Retiring President Charles Bender extended his welcome to visitors including ADG Gabrielle Morgan, Presidents Elect from Castlemaine, Kyneton and Daylesford, and several members of our sister club of Kew on Yarra.  He subsequently reported on a very active past year, while incoming President Miranda Bain introduced speakers about Artists for Orphans and a Spring Music Festival, two projects which she is keen for the Club to support.  John Green was congratulated for achieving 40 years in Rotary this very week, congratulations being shared with Jim Noy (30 years) and Stuart Bonnington (23 years since first joining in 1964).  [Other members with long service are Darryll Crozier (25 years), Gordon Whyte (23 years) and Allan Cann (22 years).]  Peter Hall was presented with the Joe Callister Award (named after a Charter Member of the Club and awarded annually by the President to a member of his choosing) in recognition of service given , notably in managing the Nepal Project and maintaining the Club website.

Since Eb Friedrich joined the Club in 2004 he has been a very active member including several years as a Director and one as President.  He was involved with Shelterbox until disagreements with the Australian Board led to a parting of the ways and formation of Disaster Aid Australia.  Eb has been extremely active in the new organisation, having national responsibility for the recruitment, training and deployment of DARTs (Disaster Aid Response Team), and recently gaining Malaysia's commitment to join with Australia, USA, Canada and UK & Ireland in Disaster Aid International.  In recognition to his commitment to "Service above Self", Eb was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship Recognition (PHF).

The evening ended with an Egg Auction which raised $182 for Cleft Palate operations in Bangladesh. 

Thu. 14/6

Peter Hall gave a report of his trip to Nepal in April, leading a group of seven volunteers including his wife, niece and three Rotarians from RC Portland Bay.  The main focus of the trip was the delivery of a 3-day holiday program for children of Paudwar School which was attended by more than 80 children, despite it being in their holiday time.  School then resumed, and assistance was given to classroom teachers over the following week.  The opportunity was taken to assess progress with other aspects of our ongoing project including teacher training, English medium teaching and development of a dairy farm, as well as participating in a survey of a prospective micro-hydro power generation scheme (much needed for computer science teaching and the dairy / cheese factory due to poor power supply - 12 hr/day load shedding is normal!).  Contact was made with the teacher training organisation and the Education Department, receiving strong positive feedback.
Peter and Ronda's return trip took in the Rotary International Convention in Bangkok followed by visits to aid projects in Cambodia.

Thu. 7/6

Eb Friedrich spoke of his travels with Helen to Bali, Malaysia, Vietnam and the RI Convention in Thailand.  A highlight was Eb's presentation to the Rotary Club of Bandar Utama which led to Malaysia committing to the establishment of Disaster Aid in that country.  This was confirmed at the RI Convention.  Bandar Utama is a Club of just 20 members, but the take Rotary very seriously, "getting in there and doing stuff" and raising funds in remarkable amounts.

Libby Nuttall has been successful with her application, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bendigo, to join the Group Study Exchange to Cambridge in October.  The field of 13 was so competitive that UK approval had to be sought to increase the team from four to five, supported by leader July Mason as Team Leader.

Thu. 31/5/12

Judy Wilson visited to tell us about the activities of the Woodend Neighbourhood House.  A not-for-profit organisation, its Mission is to provide a friendly, safe, respectful and caring environment where people of the community can come to share friendship, knowledge and skills.  One of 390 Neighbourhood Houses in Victoria, it provides adult community education as up-skilling for work or to enter an accredited educational establishment.  Funding is mostly fee for service, covering a wide range of courses.  Judy as manager is supported by a team of volunteers

Sat. 26/5/12

"Know Your Numbers" blood pressure testing was conducted at the Woodend Pharmacy, Coles Supermarket no longer being available for such purposes.  The new venue proved very satisfactory - 40 people offered themselves for testing, while the efforts of the Pharmacy staff looking after our needs were much appreciated.

Thu. 24/5/12

This was a Forum night, giving members a chance to express their wishes and concerns about the Club.  Topics covered included the wide range of projects the Club is already involved in, plus others proposed for the coming year.  Also a number of issues and concerns of members including lack of adequate induction of new members, need for better communications and the value of committees as recently re-introduced. 

Thu. 17/5/12

Computer Engineer Richard Hoskin spoke on Web Security, indicating how personal information is "mined" for directed advertising, prediction of market trends and other purposes, generating information that is worth billions to large internet enterprises like Apple, Microsoft and Google.  Among the points he mentioned were:
The WayBackMachine (www.archive.org) which records past images of websites - once posted to the web, information is there for posterity!
Minimising intrusion by using lesser known hosts such as Hushmail (www.hushmail.com) - free internet with privacy.
Use of the Tor Browser Bundle (www.torproject.org) to prevent somebody watching your Internet connection from learning what sites you visit.
Checking this with www.whatismyipaddress.com, and checking security status with www.auditmypc.com.
Richard noted that security of data depends on legislation in the country where it is stored, not where it was entered.  This varies from very detailed and thorough legislation in countries like Australia to very lax laws in some overseas countries.  Companies like Google are obliged to abide by their published web policies, but few people read them or recognise that, for instance, Google's privacy policy allows it to scan Gmail content.  Microsoft's Hotmail is a little better.  And Richard noted that companies generally retain the right to change their policies at any time without notice, by which time any information you've provided is there on the web forever.
To sum up, legitimate corporate access to the information you place on the web is not necessarily bad, but it is just as well to recognise the risks.

Thu. 10/5/12

Club Committees Night at the home of Patricia Leonard.

Sun 6 - Wed 9/5/12

Eb Friedrich and Peter Hall represented the Club at the Rotary International Convention in Bangkok.  A number of inspiring speeches, and a great opportunity for networking.  Eb spent much time on the Disaster Aid stand, and was extremely pleased when Malaysia committed joining.  Peter made contact with more of the 500 Nepalese Rotarians attending the Convention.

Sat. 5/5/112

Successful Mothers Day Raffle

Thu. 3/5/12

Howard Bradfield spoke on his experiences with Disaster Aid in Sudan.

Sun. 29/4/12

More than 64 people attended the annual luncheon at the home of Leisa Macartney, contributing to a net profit of $2063 after costs which is the highest amount to date from luncheons.  This will go to the Woodend Community Exercise Track.  A good function contributing to a good cause.

Thu. 26/4/12

Director Gordon Whyte spoke on ‘The West’s debt to Islam and to paper: researches and travel from an itinerant’. 

Sat. 21/4/12

A great night at Macedon Spa celebrating our club's 25th Anniversary with around 77 people attending.  The venue looked fantastic with the large Rotary wheel, club banners and table decorations. Our hosts Steve and Tracey with the staff were so easy to get along with in organising and couldn’t do enough to assist on the night.

There was a good turnout from people across the district including District Governor, DG Elect, DG Nominee and DG Nominee designate. We also had 2 PDGs including our charter DG John King and John Wigley. There were also a lot of charter members and past members.  Friendships were very visible among our past members. As people walked in you could see their faces light up as the rekindled friendships and recalled past activities of the club. The general feeling was maintained throughout the night.

As always the food was brilliant, with many comments about it during the night. Also dozens of comments about the Harpist Pamela Raines who entertained the guests during the night and added a lovely feel and touch of class to the evening.  Many people specifically sought out members to ensure their thanks and comments were heard.

The fireside chat with charter members Ern and Ivor, with David Wells and President Charlie was another highlight as we heard how the club was formed and about the projects the club was involved with over the last 25 years.  A booklet produced by Peter Willmott was well presented and taken by those in attendance as a memento of the night.

Peter Willmott was presented with the Club's first Royce Abbey Award.These awards, named in honour of the first Australian President of Rotary International (1988-89), are made to encourage members who are relatively new to Rotary to further develop and benefit from the talents they have demonstrated, in furthering the objectives of Rotary at Club, District and International level.  Paul Harris Fellow Recognition was presented to Grant Hocking in recognition of his great contribution to the club and community at large.

All in all it will be remembered as one of the clubs highlights for many years.  Well done everyone.

Thu. 12/4/12

Allison Still spoke about the forthcoming Mothers Day event.  Peter Willmott and Miranda Bain talked about "Woodend, a Great Place to be".  Diana Edwards inducted.

Tue. 3/4/12

In lieu of our normal Thursday meeting, nine Woodend members attended a joint meeting at the Rotary Club of Gisborne where Andrew Marjorie-Banks, former BHP exec. talked about the steel industry.  He explained how the high Australian dollar has affected our ability to export steel, thus reducing production, and manufacturers are now reliant on local markets, with 38% of the world’s steel being made from scrap, while Australia supplies 4 million tons of scrap steel.
Andrew believes the steel industry has made great advances in the production of its products (eg lighter weight material for the car industry) and reminded us that corrugated iron has been manufactured in Australia since 1857. Today the product being produced has 4 times the life span, and slag is now being used in the manufacture of marine cement, while the lower grade is used in road-fill.

Cr. Henryka Benson, deputy Mayor of Macedon Ranges Shire standing in for the Mayor spoke of Council initiatives, particularly as they relate to Woodend.  Starting with Health and Recreation she mentioned the Council contribution of $5,000 to the Rotary project to develop an Exercise Track; developing a master plan for the future of Gilbert Gordon Oval; $700,000 enhancements to Woodend Tennis Courts largely funded as flood relief; $49,000 similarly for Woodend Bowling Club; development of a multi-purpose court for Newham Primary School; and a planning review of Hanging Rock Reserve with proposed upgrades.  More generally she referred to a new supermarket for Woodend; removal of asbestos from the kindergarten; closure of Pets Haven at its present sight; the search by Braemar College for a second site; post-flood clean-up of Five Mile Creek; and footpath enhancements related to railway station parking upgrades.

Sat. 24/3/12

Visit to RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program for Enrichment) camp at Weekaway, Lancefield, providing hosting services including serving the evening meal.

Sun. 18/3/12

John and Margot Green hosted a barbeque at their home to raise funds for Polio Plus.  Although attendance was not great the food certainly was, the event was enjoyable while raising $400 for Polio Plus.  Thanks John and Margot.

Thu. 15/3/12

Ralf Thesing, President of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group spoke of the evolution of the Group and its activities.  These include:
Food localisation: Farmers Markets (Woodend, Kyneton, Riddells Creek, Lancefield); Mr Veg (vegetarians collective); Permaculture Garden; Home Produce Exchange.  Community Education: Movies that Matter;  School Outreach; Media and Publicity; Forums.  Renewable Energy: Wind; Solar; Biodiesel; Green Power; Bulk Buying schemes for members.  Over the past three years the Group has held the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Festival.  For more details go to www.mrsgonline.org.au.

Thu. 8/3/12

Les Eastcott, former member of the Rotary Clubs of Port Moresby and Point Gellibrand was not only inducted as a new member but also spoke of Life in Papua New guinea.  His talk was complemented by President Elect Miranda Bain presenting "Member behind the Badge"

Fri. 2/3/12

A Cultural Dinner raising  funds for the Nepal project was held at Gurkhas restaurant, Carlton.  Although attendance was down on last year, it proved not only an enjoyable event but very successful financially, raising almost $1,400.  This included payments for 8 tickets for people unable to attend but wishing to express their support.

Thu. 1/3/12

Grant Hocking began the night by explaining how Do Not Knock stickers can be used to repel door-to-door sales people.  They make door knocking by such people unlawful, though not illegal (there's a distinction - unlawful is not authorized by law, whereas illegal is forbidden by law.  Both, however, can get you into trouble).  Grant also mentioned the Do Not Call register to repel telephone advertising (but not calls from registered charities or political organisations), noting that such registration must be renewed every three years.

Jim Noy followed with Member Behind the Badge, outlining his life from childhood in Castlemaine through legal training and becoming a practising solicitor, leading to 30 years with Palmer, Stevens and Rennick of Kyneton.  With his first wife Margie Jim raised 3 daughters now pursuing diverse careers.  After Margie died in 1998 Jim expect to live out his life as a bachelor, not expecting to find the company and support that he has found with Rhonda.  Interests outside of work have included travelling (particularly outback), and support of R M Begg Kyneton Aged Care, of which he is now Chair after 40 years on the Board.  Jim is also Chairman of Kyneton Bushland Resort Ltd.

Sun. 26/2/12

Woodend Rotarians provided the marshalling for car parking at The Age Harvest Picnic Festival which attracted large crowds.  This not only raised funds for the Club but also contributed to our public image.  In addition we had a Rotary Marquee, a Disaster Aid display including tent, and a stall selling organic corn, boiled or BBQed.  The latter proved very popular and raised money for the Nepali Village Initiatives Project.

Thu. 23/2/12

We met at Tony's Practice Vet Clinic where Dr Tony Hanegraaf and his Business Manager Peter Gaw (who spoke at our meeting on 8/12/11) showed us their impressive facilities which include the latest technologies such as on-site pathology testing and digital Xray.  Special thanks to Ton'ys wife Tash for providing much appreciated refreshments.

Thu. 16/2/12

Ashleigh Franklin, our delegate to the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) spoke of her experiences.  A bus trip to Canberra took her to a very gruelling 12 days - rising at 6:00am and running through till 11:00pm with no stopping.  Ashleigh described various things they did and saw, in particular noting the Museum of Diseased Body Parts.  While some participants found this daunting, in only contributed to Ashleigh's reinforced enthusiasm to become a doctor.  Like reports we've had from previous participants, Ashleigh's accounting confirmed the real value of the Forum.

Howard Burvill, with the assistance of his daughter Rose, then recounted experiences of living in Scandinavia.  Although Scandinavia formally comprises Norway, Sweden and Denmark, Howard also mentioned Iceland and Finland, though he concentrated on Norway where they lived for five years, Howard working in the forestry/paper industry.  His wide-ranging illustrated talk covered geography, history, culture, food, weather, lifestyle, nature and more.  Thanks, Howard, for a very comprehensive and interesting discourse. 

Thu. 9/2/12

Luke Dam, Controller and Carmel Brew, Fund Raiser from Woodend SES joined us.  Luke spoke about the growth of the Woodend service since he joined 2-3 years ago - then less than ten members, now 29 with 21 active attending training nights every Monday evening and adding 3-4 new members per quarter.  They responded to 653 calls last year, foremost being fallen trees.  Around half of the $60,000 per annum unit expenditure comes from State Government, Council and sponsor support, the rest from donations including fund-raising from BBQs.  Luke left with us a summary of their immediate funding needs.

Luke explained that SES is essentially a volunteer service with around 100 paid staff in headquarters and 5,500 volunteers across the State.  Nearest units to Woodend are Gisborne, Castlemaine, Heathcote and Kilmore, so the unit covers the territory of many CFA units.  He mentioned the possibility of the ultimate amalgamation of SES and CFA within a common command structure.

Thu. 2/2/12

Warren Moloney and John Smith from the Rotary Club of Daylesford came to speak about Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC).   ROMAC's mission is "To provide medical treatment for children from developing countries in the form of life saving and/or dignity restoring surgery not accessible to them in their home country".

Thu. 26/1/12

The Club supported the Woodend Australia Day celebrations including a march down High Street led by the Scouts followed by morning tea at the RSL.  Thanks to all who supplied lamingtons or helped in other ways.  Our normal evening meeting was cancelled.

Thu. 19/1/12

We met at Amaroo, the property of Peter and Ronda Hall at Spring Hill where Ronda treated us to a very enjoyable 3-course meal, raising funds for the Nepal project.   Kai Saldanerie spoke of her work in China, supported by Jasper who has been visiting Australia with her.  It was interesting to learn of the education situation in China and to compare it to that of Nepal.

Thu. 12/1/12

As attendance was too low for the planned Committees Night we had a Club Forum instead.  Highlight was the induction of Allan Camm in the company of his wife Shirley.  Allan joins us from the Rotary Club of Wendouree which he joined in 1990, and where he received a PHF + Sapphire.  In his recent role of International Director Allan instituted a program of providing management assistance to businesses in the Cook Islands.  Allan, Shirley and colleagues have visited the Islands in July of each of the last three years, finding needs for particular management expertise then arranging for appropriate experts (Rotarians or otherwise) to visit and assist.  RC Wendouree worked with RC Raratonga in this enterprise, and Allan has hopes of extending it to the island of Tonga.  In the meantime he and Shirley will depart next week for the Solomon Islands where Allan will assist the Chamber of Commerce in the development of a Strategic Plan - this time under the aegis of Australian Business Volunteers..

Thu. 15/12/11

Christmas Dinner at Hanging Rock Cafe.  Well attended by Members, Partners, Honorary Members and guests, this was an enjoyable way for us all to end the year.  Spirited bidding in the Egg Auction raised over $100 for Operation Cleft!

Thu. 8/12/11

Peter Gaw, recently appointed Business Manager of Tony's Practice Veterinary Clinic spoke to us about the Clinic - its history, and the services provided.  With 14 staff and newly built hospital premises it provides a full range of services from family pets up to a highly regarded equine service.  The practice attracts clients from far afield including inter-state.  The new facilities support the provision of high quality services tailored to client's individual needs, ranging from the mundane to the recent adoption of stem cell technology.  Peter advocated veterinary insurance to counter the potentially high costs of veterinary service, of which medications are a large part (double the salaries and wages of the practice).

Thu. 1/12/11

Brett Murley of Goldfields Honey came to tell us "Everything you want to know about Bees and Honey".  Among the points he made were: 1) the large number of customers, many of them elderly, who have abandoned sugar in favour of honey as their primary sweetener - on cereals, i tea, cooking, etc.; 2) his promotion of honey as a half-time sugar boost for footballers and other sporting people; 3) the benefits of honey for health generally and the liver in particular.

Thu. 24/11/11

After a very brief AGM we welcomed Roger Leask of the Rotary Club of Essendon and a large contingent of members from that Club.  Roger addressed us on the Royce Abbey Award Program.  The Award, named in honour of the second of four Australians to become President of Rotary International, is to encourage new members who have been with Rotary for only a few years to enjoy the benefit of using their talents in furthering the object of Rotary at Club, District and International level.  Any Club can make an award upon payment of $1,000 to the Royce and Jean Abbey Foundation.  The money goes to the Royce and Jean Agricultural Fund which is part of the Permanent Fund of the Rotary Foundation.  Investment proceeds provide Royce and Jean Abbey Agricultural Scholarships, a program which assists in the training in agricultural techniques (here in Australia) of young men and women from developing countries.  Since the inception of the Award program in 2004, 164 Royce Abbey Awards have been made to Australian recipients, and another 5 internationally.  They have funded 15 Agricultural Sholarships of $10,000, each providing 3 months training in Australia for recipients, mostly from countries of the Pacific Rim.

Thu. 17/11/11

Thu. 10/11/11

Committees Night.  The meeting divided into committees for Community, New Generations, Vocational and International / Foundation.  Plans for the future were discussed, with several committees developing propositions to take to the Board

Thu. 3/11/11

Peter Hansford, Technical Director, WISE (Woodend Integrated Sustainable Energy) addressed us.  WISE is the energy project team of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group with a focus on developing and providing community ownership of renewable energy generation and other sustainable activities across the district.  The group had hopes of establishing the second community-owned wind farm in Australia after the recently commissioned Hepburn Wind.  The plans were set back but not abandoned when the new Victorian government introduced legislation banning the construction of wind farms in the Macedon Ranges, and within 2 km of any residence whose occupants object.  So what was a community campaign with financial and technical challenges has now become a political campaign to secure permission to construct a farm of 3 turbines to be located in a pine plantation south of Woodend, 1.4 km from the nearest residence.  With Australia having the highest greenhouse gas pollution of any country in the world, Victoria the highest of any state in Australia, and the Macedon Ranges the highest of any municipality in the State, it is incredible that the government should prevent the construction of a facility that would provide enough pollution-free renewable energy to power 3,600 homes - all of Woodend, Macedon, Newham and perhaps Carlesruhe and Tylden.  But as Peter pointed out, climate change is a long term problem, while governments hold power for only four years!

Mon. 31/10/11

Caroline Wogan and her team organised a free community sausage sizzle in the Woodend Children's Park to celebrate Halloween.  Very well attended, with many children dressed in Halloween costumes.

Garry Lavars of the CFA spoke on Bush Fire Awareness.  He started his talk by stressing three critical points:
1) Everyone living or working in bush fire prone areas (i.e. most of the State) should have a written Fire Plan for Survivval
2) Everyone should take responsibility for themselves, their loved ones and their animals
3) No-one should rely on receipt of an emergency alarm or official warning, nor should they expect the CFA to come to their rescue."
Garry went on to describe the 6 level Fire Danger Rating scale, and to point out that Weather Reporting districts, Fire Danger Rating districts and Total Fire Ban Districts have now all been brought into alignment, there now being nine such Districts in the State.  He stressed the need to be mindful of warnings not only for your own district but also for adjoining districts from which fires might approach.  He discussed the various sources of bushfire information - the CFA website; the bushfire information line; radio (all commercial stations as well as the ABC); TV (only Sky channel); mobile phone warnings (only for the area where the phone is registered.  Garry also recommended the CFA app. downloadable from iTunes, complementing the mobile phone service available at cfa.vic.gov.au/mobile.

Fri. 21/10/11

A Fund-raising Luncheon at the home of Honorary Member Leisa Macartney in Washington Lane was treated to a superb range of delicacies prepared by Honorary Member Melissa Hocking and her team.  More than $1,500 was raised for the Woodend Youth Music Collective.

Thu. 20/10/11

A strong contingent of members from the Rotary Club of Daylesford joined us for an enjoyable evening of discussion and challenge.  Daylesford President Jim Swatman challenged each table to come up with an appropriate response to a neighbour who persisted on washing her car with a hose despite water restrictions to the contrary.  An enjoyable evening for all.

Thu. 13/10/11

Peter Baker of law firm Peter Baker and Associates spoke of Current Issues in Criminal Law involving DNA and also Mandatory Sentencing.  Under the former heading he told us of a young Somali man who was convicted of rape and served 14 months in gaol before the evidence was proven false, leading to a $500,000 compensation payment from the Victorian government.  Peter spoke against mandatory sentencing, quoting a number of instances where it had led to clearly inappropriate results.

Thu. 6/10/11

Sophie Vitesnick, a former Braemar College student sponsored by our Club to attend the National Youth Science Forum, spoke of her attendance at the Forum in 2008; her subsequent visit to Russia as a representative of the Australian Forum; and her participation again the following year in a staff role.  Sophie, who is now completing a Science degree at Monash, spoke of how much she appreciated the experience and its effect on her life.  We were also glad to welcome to the meeting Ashleigh Franklin who has been accepted to attend the Forum this year, sponsored by our Club.

Wed. 5/10/11

A Cocktail Party was held at Woodend Neighbourhood House for local businesses and traders to consider re-forming an association.  A postive response is likely to see this eventuate over coming months.

Thu. 29/9/11

Member Grant Hocking kicked off "Member behind the Badge", describing his childhood in the western suburbs of Melbourne leading to a year at University before switching to nursing, and from that moving to Ambulance Victoria where he has worked for the past 25 years, currently as Clinical Manager – Grampians.  Grant was followed by Howard Bradfield who described a varied career including hospitality (as head chef for two restaurants in London), tour operator in Central Victoria catering for horse riders and back-packers, and currently Support Services Manager, Kyneton Hospital.  Then followed a Club Forum at which various aspects of Club operation were discussed.

Thu. 22/9/11

Member Peter Hall was joined by his wife Ronda to present an outline of the month they spent in Turkey in May / June.  It started with a week of "Turkey Walk and Sail" along the south coast from Marmaris to Fethiye, being dropped off each day from a two-masted gulet to walk with a dozen companions and a guide across coastal hillsides.  Then ten days visiting key sites in Turkey including Olympus, Pammukale, Ephesus, Troy, Gallipoli and Cappadocia before participating in the Rotary Club of Esentepe's "Time Travellers Camp".  With Tonya and Martin from the Rotary Club of Timmins Porcupine, Canada they were treated to guided visits to the sites of Istanbul followed each afternoon with a cooking classes with hands-on lessons in Turkish culinary arrts.

Thu. 15/9/11

Thu. 8/9/11

Kylie Lethbridge, Economic Development and Tourism Manager, Macedon Ranges Shire Council outlined her role and the Council's actions to enhance economic development and tourism in the Shire.  After taking up the role three years ago, Kylie initiated a business survey of the Shire that confirmed Tourism as the leading industry, ahead of agribusiness and manufacturing and construction.  This led to the development of a separate strategy for Tourism which was valued at $275 m. annually.  (The equine industry, as part of agribusiness, is worth $80m.)

Kylie noted that 64% of holiday visitors to the area come to visit family and friends, with whom most are accommodated as there is a shortage of public beds in the area - just 2,500.  This was put to the test by the Leonard Cohen concert at Hanging Rock which attracted 17,500 people. Other big events are being planned.  Kylie's talk attracted a lot of interest and discussion among the few members and guests present.

Thu. 1/9/11

PP Brendan Watters outlined the status of our Exercise Track project.  We are on the verge of receiving Council approval to proceed as things fall into place with technical design, prospects for funding and volunteers to keep the costs of the project to a minimum.  The fact that the Council will take on the ongoing liability aspects of the project, relieving us of a need for insurance, is very reassuring.  Congratulations to Brendan on the effort he has put into this project to date.

Thu. 25/8/11

District Governor Keith Ryall was flanked by two angels - his partner Gabrielle Butler and AG Gabrielle Morgan - when he visited the club.  Prior to the meeting Keith met with the District Flood Committee to discuss activity in this area, and then with President Charlie Bender to check on clubs plans and objectives for 2011-12 and any progress made to date. Present at this meeting were AG Gabrielle and VP Grant Hocking.

We then entertained Keith with some project updates before listening to his address which was very informative. The DG had obviously done his homework with specific mention of our plans for the year and comments on our website and bulletin, both of which received praise. A lovely meal and fellowship was then followed by the egg auction which raised over $50 for Operation Cleft.

Thu. 18/8/11

Linda Healy spoke of the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network, how it supports wildlife carers in the District, and its significant role in the rescue and preservation of wildlife.  Although it receives good cooperation from the Shire, it receives no financial support, so that carers themselves bear the cost of purchasing the special foods needed to restore injured anim,als to the point that they can again be released into the wild.  Linda referred us to the Network's own website - www.mrwn.org.au - and also to those of the Museum of Victoria (www.museumvictoria.com.au) and Wombat Forestcare (http://www.wombatforestcare.org.au/).

Thu. 11/8/11

Wendy Stehens, Pracrice Manager, and Shane McClure, Solicitor, of HEP Steel spoke on Wills and Estates.  The continuing barrage of questions proved this to be a topic of interest to those present.

Thu. 4/8/11

Phil Wheatley and Gerry Lambourne (retired Senior Sergeant, Victoria Police in charge of Bayside police district)  joined forces to outline the incidence of youth suicide and the importance of the District's Youth Suicide Awareness Program.  20% of deaths in the 10-24 age group are suicide, and there are 20 times this number of attempted suicides.  66% of under 19s who suicide were male, though more females attempted.  Finding a lack of Police training on the topic, Gerry undertook a Graduate Diploma of Adolescent Health and Welfare.  As a father of six and former Scout leader, Gerry was surprised how much this course taught him.  Phil suggested the Club could contribute by identifying professionals working with youth in our area and sponsoring their further training in suicide awareness.

Graeme McDiamid spent 12 months on Macquarie Island (1988) and 18 months at Davis Base Antarctica (1992) as a radio technical officer.  He gave us a graphic account of the operation of Antarctic stations and his experiences, illustrated with genuine slides (no data projector for Graeme!).  Thanks to Graeme for filling a spot at short notice, and to Peter Willmott for arranging it.

Thu. 21/4/11

Kerry Kornhauser, President Elect Rotary Club of Albert Park, spoke on "Women in Rotary".   Her key message was:  "Involving women in Rotary is a lot more than simply a matter of gender equality.  Rather, increased gender diversity in Rotary’s senior position is likely to have numerous benefits, and in particular improved performance of Rotary, and the increased attraction of, and retention of, volunteers.  Ultimately, it is crucial for the future of Rotary."  Among the facts she gave:

• It is 21 years since the first women joined Rotary International
• 17% of Rotarians are now women. yet the 'Rotary is for Men' concept still survives.
• General Motors Holden gave a sponsorship to Lions in the belief that Rotary was all-male (not recognising that Lions also have all-male clubs).
• Around the world, Rotary membership is in decline - attracting women could be the answer.

Thu. 14/4/11

Bob Farawell of Farawell Wines explained the trials and tribulations of grape growing and wine production for small-scale growers such as those in the Macedon Ranges, compared with the quite different approach of the large producers.

Fri. 8/4/11

Luncheon arranged by Melissa Hocking and her team at the home of Leisa McCartney to raise funds for the purchase of a heart defiibrillator to be located for emergency use at the Woodend Service Station.

Thu. 7/4/11

Taryn Lane, candidate for a Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship introduced herself and outlined her ambitions.  Her partner Sebastian Klein, Deputy Mayor of Hepburn Shire, also outlined his background. 

Thu. 31/3 - Sat. 2/4/11

District Conference, Adelaide attended by Brendan and Jane Watters, Grant and Melissa Hocking and Peter and Ronda Hall, with Eb Friedrich presenting Disaster Aid

Thu. 31/3/11

Member Gordon Whyte shared with us his experience before, during and after his recent visit to Christchurch at the time of the devastating earthquake.  He also described his mishap prior to the quake when he fell off a bike, causing extensive facial and other injuries.  He spoke of the importance of good medical attention.

Thu. 24/3/11

Dinner meeting hosted by Stuart and Jay Bonnington at their home at 36 Hedderwick Lane, Macedon, proceeds to victims of recent disasters.

Thu. 17/3/11

Val Clarke spoke of the experiences of her brother being charged and convicted of sexual offences as a scout leader some 18 years previously.  An appeal led to a second trial and another conviction, but another appeal led to a third trial at which he was acquitted of all charges.  The tale, which shows how much an innocent person and their family can suffer at the hands of our "criminal justice system" is told in Val's book Unjust Justice.  This book deserves to be widely read to understand just how badly our system can go wrong.

Thu. 10/3/11

Dinner meeting hosted by Patricia Leonard at her home and B&B Auberge to raise funds for Queensland flood victims.  The money we usually spend on a meal at a normal meeting all went to the cause, while we all enjoyed an excellent meal.  Francis Lyford-Pike was inducted as a returning member.  Thanks to Patricia and others who helped.

Thu. 3/3/11

Charles Bender and Howard Bradfield outlined their experiences training to become Disaster Aid Relief Team (DART) members.  The training course at Gilwell Park, Gembrook was organised by PP Eb Friedrich and his Disaster Aid colleagues.  It is remarkable that Woodend now boasts six of the twenty or so DARTs in Australia.

The Club manned a stand at the Hanging Rock Harvest Picnic, raising almost $600 for victims of the previous Tuesday's Christchurch earthquake (a late change from our original plan to seek money for our international projects).  We look forward to increased participation and results next year.

Fri. 25/2/11

We hosted a Nepali Cultural Dinner at Gurkhas Restaurant, Lygon St Carlton, with dancing by two lovely ladies arranged by the Nepalese Association of Victoria.  With sixty people attending we achieved net proceeds of $1,830 towards our target of $5,000 for the Nepal Teacher Training project.  And those present enjoyed a great night.

Thu. 24/2/11

John Nichols spoke of his experience attending the National Youth Science Forum, and John Masterman of his attending the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards camp - both sponsored by our Club.  While the two programmes were very different, both John and Andrew declared that it had been the best expoerience of their lives.  Great encouragement for the Club to go on sponsoring this sort of activity.

Darryll Crozier - our remaining Charter Member - gave an organ recital at St Paul's Kyneton where he has been organist for 30 years.  Many thanks, Darryll, for a most enjoyable occasion.

Thu. 10/2/11

Kai Saldaneri spoke of her visit to Mongolia last June.  Mongolia was unified by Ghengis Khan from 1206AD, to become the largest connected empire to have existed, extending from China to Hungary, Germany, France and Italy.  Howard Burville contributed the fact that it was the Mongolians' invention of the stirrup, allowing them to shoot arrows while riding, that enabled them to achieve this feat.  In more recent centuries power and influence have swung between China and Russia until the independent State of Mongolia was declared on 24/11/1990.  It's population of 3 million derives from nomadic herdsman who had very limited vegetables in their diet, due to their inability to grow crops.  Mongolia is not to be confused with Inner Mongolia, a larger semi-autonomous region of China.

Kai followed with her outline of The Member behind the Badge.  Trained as a primary teacher at Burwood Teachers College she spent five years teaching at Cohuna before taking a full year of paid study leave to move into Special Education.  This led to six years at Yooralla, then time in various districts integrating children with disabilities into normal schools.  A period then with the Children's Hospital involved diagnostic assessment of learning disabilities.  When her aunt's health deteriorated Kai gave up paid employment to look after her for six years.  After her aunt's death she took up her current posting at the Darlyan Maritime University in China.

Thu. 3/2/11

Jaqueline O'Giel, Director of Duniera and of the Woodend Winter Arts Festival attended to tell us about this year's Festival and how we may be able to support it.  There will be the usual need for volunteers for transport, accommodation, etc.  And Kacky would be very appreciative if the Club could do anything to encourage more support from local traders.  Patricia Leonard, who joined the Club last year, spoke of "The Member behind the Badge".  Patricia was active with the Boroondara Central Lions Club for 15 years before moving to Woodend and joining Rotary.  She was also actively involved with the Kew Community festival over many years, including several as President.  Her life is kept busy now running two B&Bs in Woodend (Auberg and Dartmouth Cottage) as well as a small importing business servicing the needs of zoo shops around Australia.

Thu. 27/1/11

Club member Stuart Bonnington spoke of a recent trip to Egypt - a country that impressed him greatly, though little did he realise how it would erupt politically in the coming week.  Stuart is keen to return, but perhaps only when the current unrest settles.  Jane Watters was inducted as a new member.

Wed. 26/1/11

The Club joined forces with the Woodend RSL and Scouts to celebrate Australia Day, starting with a march from the RSL Hall down the main street of Woodend and return, followed brief speeches than morning tea with scones and cream.  This was followed by bush and band music, games and a BBQ lunch.

Thu. 20/1/11

This was a particularly well attended meeting, with visitors from RC Melton Valley as well as a number of partners.  Eb Friedrich gave an illustrated talk of his recent month-long tour of duty in Pakistan as leader of the Disaster Aid Response Team.  He put the recent / current Australian floods well and truly into perspective, with the extent of damage and with people losing not only their homes but their food sources as unfertile silt covered their fields meters deep.

Thu. 13/1/11

Our meeting shifted to the Khaojao Thai restaurant in Templeton Street where we were addressed by Gary Mathews, President of  3CH 100.7 Highlands FM.  Eb, Grant and Melissa had to leave as the meeting commenced for fear that they would be blocked from returning home by flood-waters.  They made it, driving home through two patches of water.  Grant had to dig trenches to defend his house, then during the night two large tress fell not far from the house, leaving a big clean-up job (assisted, in subsequent days, by a number of Club members).

Before Gary could begin his address the power went off so we had the talk without visuals.  Then the power came back on, and Gary was able to run through a number of photos of the station and its transmission facilities.  A planned visit to the station after the talk was cancelled due to the weather.

Wed. 15/12

Club Christmas Dinner at the Victoria.  This function was well attended by current and honorary members and partners as well as a number of other Rotary guests including ADG John Chadderton.  Proceedings began with a performance bya quartet from Resonance Orchestra youth group.  Christmas spirit was shared by donations of non-perishable food items for Fr Ray Saggers needy families project.  Highlights of the evening were the inductions of new members Pru Williamson and Coral Davies, and the awarding of Honorary Membership to Melissa Hocking for her strong support for the Club over several years, and in particular for the Annual Luncheon.

Thu. 9/12/10

Meeting with Woodend State Emergency Service.  This meeting - well attended on both sides - gave Rotary members and their partners an opportunity to learn something of SES activities and to inspect their facilities including two well-equipped emergency vehicles and a couple of support vehicles.  It also gave us the opportunity to present the SES with a cheque for $5,000 derived from proceeds from the New Woodend Star.  The money will be used for the purchase of various additional items of equipment.

Thu. 2/12/10

Joint meeting with Woodend Probus Club.  Several members from each club attended.  Presidents ob both clubs gave an overview of their activities, followed by a lovely dinner. The egg auction for Operation Cleft raised a very healthy amount on the evening thanks to spirited bidding/donations from those present.
The Woodend Probus club was sponsored by the RC Woodend over a decade ago and now boasts a very healthy 70+ members.  Probus Clubs are established by Rotary but then become autonomous, taking responsibility for their own operations through a committee elected annually.  Most Clubs are in fact incorporated under their State’s Associations Incorporations Act. They meet monthly for social activities including travel.

Thu. 25/11/10

The Club's AGM was speedily dispatched, followed by an equally brief AGM of the Nepali Village Initiatives Association.  The Rotary meeting then resumed, with Peter Hall giving a presentation about the project in Nepal.  As Peter expects to give this presentation to other Clubs in the coming year, this was a useful practice run.   Our Club has accepted responsibility for a project to deliver teacher training to 40 teachers from 6 schools in Myagdi District, for which we have applied for a matching grant of $5,000 from the Rotary Foundation.  Other Clubs interested to hear more about this project  should email Peter at info@nepalaid.org.au or visit the website www.nepalaid.org.au.

Fri. 19/11/10

Another successful Fund-raising Luncheon was held on Friday afternoon 19 November.  This event has been held for the past 4 years raising funds for the Rotary club which are in turn allocated to various projects. On this occasion the money raised will be donated equally to the Woodend Scout Group and Woodend Youth Space.
Rotary Community director Grant Hocking stated thanks must go to Melissa Hocking who arranged the event coordinating all the catering and raffle prizes and to everyone who helped by providing food. Caroline Wogan assisted with a lot of the savoury food with Patricia, Angela and Jane providing more food in the form of meatballs and sandwiches.
Special thanks also to Leisa Macartney for again making her house and garden available for the luncheon. Woodend Rotary acknowledged this support over many years with President Brendan Watters presenting Leisa with an honorary membership to the Rotary club.
The weather was brilliant and the attendance at an all time high with in excess of 60 people attending. It was a fantastic event with everyone enjoying champagne and the savoury and sweet treats on offer.

Thu. 18/11/10

Paramedic Trainer Grant Hocking gave us a follow-up First Aid session, this time distributing pillow-slips if the form of dummies for practicing mouth-to-mouth and CPR resuscitation. We were also introduced to Resusci Annie, a mannequin that gave a more practical feel of the real meaning of Harder, Faster, Deeper CPR.  This experience set members thinking about funding a defibrilator unit to be held in the local supermarket.

Sat. 13/11/10

A trailer load of firewood raffled outside the supermarket raised $113.00 for our Nepal project.

Wed. 10/11/10

Seven Woodend members with three partners and two prospective members attended a joint meeting with the Rotary Club of Daylesford amid a great spirit of friendship.  Woodend took the negative in a debate that "The Four-way Test is still relevant in modern times", and won to resounding acclamation - despite the our recognition of its continuing expression of core Rotary values.

Thu. 4/11/10

Member and Paramedic Trainer Grant Hocking gave us an introductory session on Basic Life Support.   He outlined the Chain of Survival:
Recognition that something is wrong
Access emergency services - call 000
Administer CPR - Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation
Apply Defibrillation - shocks to the heart using special equipment (an AED - Automatic External Defibrillator) generally available in shopping centres, airports, etc. (000 can advise)
Give AIS - Advanced Life Support.  This is a role of the paramedic, involving drugs.

Grant's core message was DRABCD:
Dangers - assess the dangers of the situation before taking any action - don't put your own life at risk.
Response - Touch and Talk to the patient to assess consciousness.  Check for breathing and pulse. 
Airway - Make sure the airway is clear.  If the patient is unconscious, roll onto the side to avoid risk of tongue falling back and choking (unless applying CPR).
Breathing - Can be assisted by two strong breaths into the patient's mouth, holding the nose.
Circulation - Is critical and can be stimulated by CPR.  Press on the lower half of the chest with the heel of your hand, other hand on top.  The key to success if Harder (even at the risk of breaking ribs), Faster (> 100 presses per minute), Deeper (depress the chest 1/3 of its depth - 2").  A good routine is 30 compressions alternating with two deep breaths.
Defibrillation - can be done even by amateurs with limited training where the equipment is available.

Grant noted that attending to bleeding is low on the list of priorities compared with restoring breathing and heart action.

Tue. 2/11/10

Melbourne Cup Day was celebrated by a BBQ (egg and bacon sangers, sausages) outside the Victoria Hotel TAB, raising some useful funds for the Club.

Sun. 31/10/10

In excess of 15 people attended the cemetery clean-up, with 2 on lawn mowers, 2 on whipper snipping, others on weed pulling, black berry removal, tree pruning and other tiding up activities.  The result was very pleasing, making a great impact on the parts we focussed on.

The following Halloween celebration was what anyone would call an outstanding event.  An estimated 250 people were at the park.  Nearly all of the children were dressed up with some going to great lengths for their costumes.  For our free BBQ we used 15 kg of sausages and gave out 150 lolly bags (all to kids).  The crowd was huge and the park full.  Even the Rotarians got dressed up.  It was the anniversary of the Woodend Childrens Park opening, and many of the original committee (inc. Jane Walduck and Kelly Duff) were elated that the event had been put on, and to see the park used in such a community minded activity.  Grant has recommend that we do it again next year, perhaps with some live music from the Woodend Youth group.

Thu. 28/10/10

Kathy Dent and her crew from Woodend Youthspace visited and gave us a talk about their activities.

Sun. 24/10/10

Once again the Club hosted the President Elect Training Seminar (PETS 1) for District 9800 at Braemar College.  The day was generally regarded as a bigsuccess!  Delicious soups,wraps,sandwiches,scones,biscuits and fruit was served to the delegates by hardworking members and partners.  Many thanks to catering co ordinator Caroline assisted by Melissa,Patricia,Jane,Two Howards,Jim and Charles. It was a lot of hard work which was well appreciated by the District Committee and all delegates not to mention a boost to our club funds!

Thu. 21/10/10

Chris Macquet of Trentham spoke of Truffle Growing in Australia and of the efforts of himself, his wife and others to develop a truffle industry in Australia.

Thu. 14/10/10

Students who we had sponsored to attend MUNA (Model United Nations Assembly) at Camp Getaway, Axedale, in August attended to describe their experience.  This is a program that the Club proudly sponsors annually, and we are pleased to see our sponsorship so much appreciated.

Thu. 7/10/10

Our own Peter Willmott spoke to us about amateur radio, including R.O.A.R  - The International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio.  Tracing history to the very beginnings of radio he explained that amateur radio is more than just a hobby but a valuable contributor to community welfare, especially in disaster situations.  He told us how Australians had made significant contributions in the field, and went on to say that it is a great way for Rotarians around the world to share their ideas and their passions.. 

Thu. 30/9/10

John Davis, our guest speaker from Rotary Foundation gave an informative talk on the new changes in how Foundation will operate.  The new changes, called “Future Vision” is being introduced as a pilot programme into 3 Australian districts, including 9800.  The aim of the changes are to strengthen the impact of club projects, to sharpen focus and to transfer decision making locally.  The process will be simplified and intends to increase visibility globally.
The six areas of focus are:
    Peace and conflict resolution    Maternal health    Water purification    Education and literacy    Economic support and growth    Disease management
The pilot programme will come to its conclusion in 2017, where all 332 world districts will adopt the new process.  This will coincide with Foundation’s 100 year anniversary.

Thu. 23/9/10

Peter Duras, Past President of Essendon and Physiotherapist to five successive Commonwealth Games before managing logistics for the Melbourne Games, gave an informative talk on the history of the Commonwealth Games and the issues facing the imminent Games in India.  Peter concluded that athletes should be free to attend, having confidence for their safety.  In fact, spectators could face greater risks than the athletes.

Mon. 13/9/10

Joint meeting with Rotary Club of Kyneton attended by Philip Archer, District Director Marketing and Membership, and by members from Daylesford and Gisborne clubs.  A great night of fellowship for all.  Woodend RC was formally thanked by Philip for undertaking to host PETS 1 (formerly Pre-PETS) t Braemar College on 24 Oct.

Thu. 9/9/10

Dr.Chris Aitkins  joined us to speak on Men’s health and various associated issues.  A very interesting talk, Chris is very down to earth.  He is a local GP and practicing lawyer so his insights were thoughtful and well communicated.  We were also joined last night by Alan Mclean, from the Rotary Club of Shepparton (Patricia Leonard’s guest) and Helen and Ian Scott.  A great night indeed!

Sat. 4/9/10

Our drive to raise funds for Disaster Aid Australia to support flood relief in Pakistan continued outside the supermarket.

Thu. 2/9/10

Sat. 28/8/10

A fund raising drive outside the supermarket raised $850 for Disaster Aid Australia to support flood relief in Pakistan

Thu. 26/8/10

DG Iven McKay attended the meeting with his wife Marilyn together with a return visit by ADG John Chadderton.  This was a well attended Partners night, and Iven spoke encouragingly about Rotary activities for the coming year.  Patricia Leonard and Stuart Bonnington were inducted to the Club, Stuart a previous member returning to the fold.

Thu. 19/8/10

Pauline Neil, Youth Development Manager from Macedon Ranges Shire Council, came in to speak about the fantastic, innovative work they are doing with the youth.   She spoke briefly on the Youth Space groups running in most towns in Shire and the direct benefits.  She also gave us an important insight into the “live4life” programme.  This is aimed at preventing youth suicide.  One of their functions is to take the Year 8 teachers from the 5 secondary schools in the area and teach them Mental Health First Aid.  For more information on this please log on to the website www.life4life.org.au.

Thu. 12/8/10

Assistant District Governor John Chadderton attended with his wife Pat.  John gave a short address encouraging the various activities of the Club.  Member Gordon Whyte then gave an illustrated talk on the Effects of Climate Change in Bengal, the area of India adjoining Bangladesh where he had spent his childhood.  This was a thought provoking and important subject, and we are grateful for Gordon sharing his time and expert knowledge.

Fri.-Sun. 6-8/8/10

Eb Friedrich led an assessment weekend at Gilwell Park for aspiring Disaster Aid Australia Relief Team members.  Of the twelve who attended ten were successful and will go on to attend a ten-day training program in November.  These included our own Charles Bender and Howard Bradfield.  Congratulations to Charles and Howard, and to Eb and Luke for their roles in running the weekend.

Wed. 4/8/10

A very successful Careers Night was held at the Woodend Community Centre.  Staged in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Kyneton, it was attended by 15 students from each of four local secondary schools together with their parents.  Sixteen community members were on hand to speak of their career experiences.  After introductory sumaries by 8 of these the meeting divided, giving students the opportunity to spend four successive 15 minute periods in discussion with a pair of advisors in the fields of their choosing.  These covered a considerable range of occupations.  Meanwhile the parents were addressed on university opportunities and matters they might need to consider.  The evening concentrated on university pathways as being an area with which many local students may have had little or no contact. 

Thu. 29/7/10

PDG John Wigley was the guest speaker this week and gave an insightful talk on the Rotary Leadership Institute.  Based at the Montague Education Centre, it was established in Melbourne in 2008 and has more than 90 graduates to date.  In fact, 17 of the new Presidents this year are graduates, 12 were last year The aim of the 3 part course is to expand the knowledge of Rotary for all Rotarians, and build on leadership skills. The success of a Club is effective leadership.  It is not just for Presidents Elect, all members can benefit.  For those interested, please see Brendan for future course dates.

Thu. 22/7/10

Luke Friedrich spoke of his experience sailing on the Young Endeavour.   A voyage aboard Young Endeavour  is an awesome experience, and one which will gives young people skills for life. The Royal Australian Navy crew teaches the technical skills required to sail a square-rigged vessel, including helming, navigation, rope handling, working aloft and even command. Not only that, itl develops teamwork, leadership and communication skills, work with disadvantaged youth, and meeting people from around the country.  Luke told us there wer emore girls than boys on his trip, and that they encountered the roughest weather some of the professional crew had experienced.  Despite this and the bruising some received (graphic photo of one girl's legs), Luke enjoyed the experience.  

Thu. 15/7/10

Planning night last night proved to be an interesting and lively night.  Various club positions were decided upon (list to follow shortly) and a list for potential new members was passed around for future follow up.

Careers Night will be held on August 4th We need around 10 people to volunteer their assistance for this evening.  A list will be distributed next meeting, or let Gordon know if interested Gordon Whyte explained that the format will remain similar to last year, which was a great success. Sixteen students from Kyneton Secondary, Sacred Heart, Braemar

College and Gisborne Secondary are invited to talk to various career people, whilst their parents can avail of practical advice on certain career paths.  Start time is 7pm (so we will need to be there at 6.30 to help set up) with a finish time of 9pm (we will need to pack up after so no later than 9.30 – 10pm).  It has been suggested this would be in place of the normal Thursday meeting, however this is to be confirmed

2010 / 2011 Directories were handed out – if you missed out, please see Jim Noy

Community Service Forum at Camp Getaway has been planned for Aug 1st Grant mentioned the possibility of a working bee on the Sat 31st, with a bbq dinner and sleep over – but as this might not suit all it is to be confirmed.  Please let Grant know if you can attend

Club Board meeting – to be held TUESDAY 20th , 7.30pm If there is anything that needs to be included on the Agenda, please inform Jim Noy no later than Monday 19th

Egg Auction raised $38.25 for Cleft Palate

Thu. 8/7/10

Charlie Bender – Hiking in Howqua Whilst us lucky ones were picking grapes over the Easter break, Charles Bender answered the call of the wild.  With his sister in law and other experienced hikers (he not being that really), Charles undertook an arduous and interesting hike in our gorgeous Alpine country.  There were exciting encounters with a tiger snake, challenging landscapes, offerings from the Easter bunny and wedge tailed eagles – even a view from the
Devil’s window – what an amazing experience!!!!

Thu. 1/7/10

A very successful change-over dinner was held at The Bentink, Woodend, with visitors from far and wide.  Brendan Watters was installed as President.  Charles Bender received the Club's Joe Callister Award for 2009-10.  Many thanks to our past President Mr. Eb Friedrich.  We acknowledge the wonderful support from Eb’s wife, Helen and welcome as always Brendan’s wife, Jane.  A fantastic night was had by all at the glorious Bentnick Function centre.

Thu. 24/6/10

Club meeting followed by joint Board Meeting (outgoing and incoming Boards)

Sat. 19/6/10

Six members and two family-members joined with our friends from Kew-on-Yarra in a working bee at the DIK store in Yarraville.  Most of us worked in the "haberdashery department", sorting work clothing donated by manufacturers (removing plastic bags, hangers and labels and sorting by sizes).  Others  assisted the loading of a container for Vanuatu.  A worthwhile morning, concluded by a BBQ lunch.

Thu. 7/6/10

More than 80 people attended the Information Meeting convened at the Woodend Community Centre to give VicRoads an opportunity to respond to community concerns about changes to line-marking of Black Forest Drive.  Everyone present was there because of their concerns about the safety of this particular road, though the great majority of those present felt that the VicRoads changes reducing traffic from four lanes to two with a central turning lane would increase rather than reduce risks.

All present could agree that VicRoads need to lift their game with respect to community consultation regarding projects such as this.  Earlier consultation would have allowed community concerns to be taken into account in whatever solution VicRoads finally adopted, whereas now we just have to see whether the adopted solution is as effective as VicRoads maintain it will be.  No-one wants a continuing accident record to prove them wrong.

Jim Noy kept the meeting under control despite some rather vocal participants.  In the end, every-one who wanted to had their say, and David Runnalls, Acting Regional Director of VicRoads, received a round of applause for his willingness to come and "face the music".

Thu. 10/6/10

Allan Mitchell - Federal policeman and member of the army reserve was restricted by Army regulations in how much he could tell us of his time in Afghanistan looking for roadside bombs.  Most of the meeting was devoted to Club business.

The joys of retirement, presented by guest speaker Mr Bryan Power former Editor, the Great Gisborne Gazette and Director of Kyneton Bushland Resort Ltd..  For Bryan, this year marks the 21st anniversary of his parting company with the Victorian Department of Education and it was his decision to retire.  As he pointed out, retirement is an issue of great interest to most people pushing beyond middle age, and there were a small number at the meeting who fit into that group!!!

Bryan gave us his baker's dozen oft the Joys of retirement.

Website – REMINDER Peter Hall has done an amazing job with developing the club website.  Please all reply to his email on 28th regarding approval of uploading photos and members names.

Thu. 27/5/10

Website – Peter Hall has done an amazing job with developing the club website.  Please all reply to his email on 28th regarding approval of uploading photos and members names.

Bowel Scan kits – Howard Bradfield has reported that 19 were sold, and 9 returned for testing. The money raised is being banked, and will be allocated to projects account.

Finance – A cheque for $530 was handed to Peter Hall for Nepal Aid and one for $530 for CKF – proceeds from the successful luncheon held in April.  A cheque for $1000 was sent off to the Rotary Foundation as part of the club’s annual contribution.  The egg raffle raised around $30 to go towards the next Operation Cleft donation.

Last week, at the mini club assembly Brendan presented some ideas for the next Rotary year, and the group then broke into groups to brainstorm ideas for projects and fundraising. Dozens of ideas were listed and Brendan took them away to consolidate.  Membership was one of the common themes with some good ideas discussed linking into other community groups, making membership a project and raising the club’s profile. It was suggested that another similar meeting should be held soon to develop some of the ideas.

Folding of the NWS went well this Saturday – was done and dusted by 10am.  Well done all that could attend.

Thu. 20/5/10

Bowel Scan kits are available from Woodend Pharmacy for the month of May.  Risk begins at 40, and 90% of cancers can be cured if detected early.  The kits are $10.  Woodend Rotary are supporting this initiative, more information can be obtained by calling 1300 779 694

District Assembly  Reports were presented by the following:
Brendan Watters – President Elect
Charlie Bender –  President Elect 2011-12
Howard Burvill – New Members
Peter Hall – International / Foundation / Membership and Marketing
Peter Willmott – New Generations
Jim Noy and Grant Hocking have sent their reports separately as they were apologies for this meeting
All were interesting and provoked great conversation.

Club Website  Peter Hall’s fantastic efforts in this direction has raised a few queries.  These are proposed to be discussed at next Thursday’s meeting, before the Board Meeting

Mini Club Assembly or an informal discussion - this Thursday 29th – before Board meeting to discuss ideas, such as the web site and general plans for the next Rotary year

Sun. 16/5/10

District Assembly at Melbourne Grammar School.  Brendan Watters, Grant Hocking, Charkes Bender, Jim Noy, Peter Hall attended

Sat. 15/5/10

Blood Pressure testing ("Know Your Numbers") and firewood raffle for Nepal at Woodend supermarket

Thu. 13/5/10

Christine Heyes from the Stroke Foundation gave us a very informative talk on awareness surrounding the circumstance of strokes.  She explained the F.A.S.T. campaign. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, go through this check-list
F – Is their face dropping, or anyway distorted?
A – Can they lift their arms?
S – Is their speech slurred? Can they understand what you are saying?
T _Time is critical – call 000 immediately
Remembering this could help save someone’s life.  You can visit www.strokefoundation.com.au for more information.
 
Bowel Scan kits are available from Woodend Pharmacy for the month of May.
Risk begins at 40, and 90% of cancers can be cured if detected early.
The kits are $10.  Woodend Rotary are supporting this initiative, more information can be obtained by calling 1300 779 694

Thu. 6/5/10

Senior Consable Joe Grbac spoke of his role as Macedon Ranges Youth Officer for Victoria Police

Fri. 16/4/10

Grant and Melissa Hocking arranged a fund raising luncheon at the home of Leisa Macartney, raising funds for our international projects (Cambodian Kids Foundation, Nepali Village Initiatives and Shelterbox)

Thu. 15/4/10

A visit to see the operations of the Kyneton Bushland Resort was arranged by Jim Noy

Thu. 8/4/10

Easter Monday was spent grape picking at Bob Farawell's vineyard at Lancefield in the company of members from our Sister Club of Kew on Yarra, adding to the funds of both Clubs.

Visit to Ivan Smiths Car collection in Kyneton.  Ivan was a Charter member of the Kyneton Rotary club and has been a semi-regular attendee at our club.  This event was not be missed.  It was a rare opportunity to view this collection not generally open to the public. There was the very first and last Valiant off the production line with a model from every year in between, as well as many other older vehicles and trucks.  The cost was $20 which included a BBQ provided by Ivan and Jean with money raised will going to their favourite overseas charity, an orphanage in Timor Leste.

Past members Ivor Johnson, Barry Napthine and Ern Lester-Smith attended and helped the club highlight its achievements in its 22 years. Each spoke for about 5 minutes, mentioning highlights of their time with Woodend Rotary.  A great night and an opportunity for newer members, friends and potential members to meet some of the legends of the club and find out more about the history of the club.

Eb Friedrich, Peter Hall and others provided a Shelterbox display for the Haiti appeal at Moonee Ponds

Peter Hall fund raising outside the supermarket for the Shelterbox Haiti Earthquake Appeal bringing the total raised to $4611 or thereabouts.

Peter Hall spent the day at Coles, and raised a further $854 for the Rotary Haiti Earthquake Appeal Fund, bringing our total so far to $4,380.

Fund raising outside the supermarket for the Shelterbox Haiti Earthquake Appeal

Kai Saldanerie held a Christmas party at her home prior to her departure to teach in China.

Club Christmas Dinner at the Vic.

Cluster Christmas Dinner at Cricket Willow

AGM and Board Meeting  Last year’s Minutes and Treasurer’s report were accepted as you’d expect, and Brendan’s board for next year was elected. They are: Secretary and Treasurer Jim Noy; International Eb Friedrich; Club Service and PE Charles Bender; Community Service Grant Hocking; New Generations Peter Wilmott; Vocational Service Gordon Whyte.

Club meeting - induction of Peter Hall and Caroline Wogan

Pre Pets training day.  The whole proceedings went smoothly. There were about 70 attendees whose every need was met by our club and Braemar College.  Special thanks and congratulations go to Donna and her CKF crew who did the catering.

Cambodian Kids Foundation Dinner at Macedon Top of the Range.  We have it on good authority that Donna’s baby put on a lot of weight on Saturday night! The dinner was a great financial success and the Cambodian Kids Foundation is half way to its goal of $30,000.  Well done Donna.

Thu. 15/10/09

Thu. 8/10/09

The default meal situation at The Vic seems to be “not before 8:30”, so Anne Marie Williams held the floor uninterrupted as she outlined the work she does through Central Victorian Group Training. It is amazing that such good work gets done to give young people a better start to their working lives, when so much bureaucracy has to be negotiated on the way there. Gordon has circulated Anne Marie’s invitation to one of us to attend the tradie’s breakfast she is organizing for early morning this Tuesday 20th October. Show our support and contact Anne Marie, who can give you a lift there. Contact her on: Mob: 0429 338 184 or awilliams@cvgt.com.au.

Club meeting

Thu. 24/9/09

DG Colin Muir attended with his wife Pauline

Thu. 17/9/09

Ivan Smith of RC Kyneton spoke of travelling the Canning Stock Route in Western Australia in WW2 jeeps

Thu. 10.9.09

Club meeting

Thu. 3/9/09

Peter Hall spoke on the Nepali Village Initiatives project

Thu. 26/8/09

Meeting with Daylesford at the Pig and Whistle went well although I didn’t get a full run down of events of the night. We all got copied into the issue of being charged for non attendance. Lucky we have such a great venue and set up at The Victoria Hotel. Great meals, choice and venue.

There was a good attendance at the special Mount Players production of Minefields and Miniskirts for Cambodian Kids Foundation on Thursday night. It is a very interesting and moving portrayal of womens experiences associated with the Vietnam War.

Good turnout again on Saturday for the NWS folding. There was one small insert and a lot of fun.
Thanks to members and partners that attended. The get together afterwards went as long as the folding.

Wed. 19/8/09

The Rotary Clubs of Woodend and Kyneton combined to conduct a wonderful Careers Evening at Woodend Community Hall for Secondary school students from Sacred Heart College, Kyneton Secondary College and Braemar College. The evening was arranged to provide an insight into what it is like to live in that profession. About 48 students and many parents attended and along with gaining an insight into different careers were treated with biscuits and refreshments at the end of the evening. Community Partnerships sponsored the event with a guest speaker.

There were 15 people present to talk on a range of professions. Many of those present were in awe of the 2 minute biographies and the pearls of wisdom that the discussants produced, which proved a real highlight of the evening. Professions represented included medical and allied health, engineering, arts, business and the sciences. The impression at the end of the evening is that Woodend and Kyneton have a remarkably talented and interesting bunch of people living here and that. The organising group enjoyed the evening stating that this was an excellent way to showcase the local professionals and hope to make it an annual event.

Evaluation forms indicated a unanimous and enthusiastic approval and gratitude for the event from both students and parents. Careers teachers from the schools were enthused by the remarkably positive reaction from the students the following day. Many students commented that they would have liked more time to talk to the professionals.  The opinion of the careers teachers was that all in all, it was almost perfect!

Woodend Rotarian and organiser Gordon Whyte would like to extend his thanks to everyone from Woodend and Kyneton Rotary who came and participated and to the students and parents who attended.  Check the paper this week for a story and photos.

Thu. 13/809

A packed house at Schatzis to farewell Kai who heads to Dalian, China next week to commence her English teaching post at the Naval University. It will be a loss to the club and community but Kai will keep in touch. All your friends will miss you Kai. Hopefully the time goes by quickly until Kai comes home again in December.

Thu. 6/8/09

The Hon. Alistair Nicholson spoke as Patron Australia of the Operation Cleft Australia Foundation, an international project initiated by the Rotary Club of Box Hill Central (D9810). We had a great turnout with 30 people attending from several other clubs. Our club was able to present our guest with another $250 donation.
Alistair Nicholson, OA, QC and former Chief Justice of the Family Court Australia, has always been interested in children’s issues, and told us that around 4,500 children in Bangladesh are born every year with a cleft lip or palate.  At a cost of only A $250, the operations are carried out by surgeons trained in Australia who in turn are training doctors, nurses and medical staff in the required procedures in local hospitals in Bangladesh.
With a population of 150 Million, the Bangladesh public health system does not cover this non-life-threatening surgery, and the people are too poor to pay for it. As highlighted in the DVD presentation, this Rotary project funds a minimum of 1,000 operations a year and will soon include speech and language therapy for the patients who have been given ‘the gift of a smile for life’. Visit: www.operationcleft.org.au

Kai gave a exceptional performance as “Queen of the Eggs” and raised over $100 to go towards another Cleft Palate operation. Kai did have help from a certain cocky individual.

Thu. 30/7/09

Peter Willmott was inducted as our newest member. Peter was accompanied by his wife Anneliese and lovely daughters Matilda and Sabrina. Peter will join John Green on the New Generations committee.  Peter will continue to present ‘Rotary Round Up’ on Highlands FM 100.7 FM Thursday evening from 6pm-7pm. Last week Donna Cooper was his guest speaking about Cambodian Kids Foundation.

AG Lewis and Sue attended the meeting and started with a look at our plans and objectives for the next year.

Mike Dorneau from Woodend CFA was presented with our contribution towards the purchase of a new fire fighting vehicle. The cheque or $8000 was gratefully received by Mike who gave a brief rundown of the procedure for CFA receiving financial support for equipment and some of the units activities over the last fire season including being one of the first trucks into Kinglake on Black Saturday. We know that the money will be put to good use.

Caroline Wogan attended the meeting as a guest of Melissa and I and is very interested in becoming a member of the club. So much so that Caroline attended the NWS folding and is booked for next week to hear our special guest speaker.

New Woodend Star folding was well attended by 14 members and partners which made the work pass by very quickly and as usual a few of us headed for coffee and Litterary latte. Very civilized.

Thu. 23/7/09

The monthly Club Forum was held and we welcomed back Jim after his annual European pub crawl. We also welcomed Peter Willmott and it was announced that he will be our newest newbie member. Peter and Eb arrived puffing after a quick hike up the hill from the office of 100.7 FM ‘The Voice of the Ranges’ our local community radio station. Peter has taken on the mantle of presenting the ‘Rotary Round Up’ at the studio on a Thursday evening from 6pm-7pm. Eb was the first guest speaker (as is fitting for The Pres) and he talked about Club projects, ShelterBox, our efforts in the Bush fire relief, membership, FOR’s etc etc. The presentation is a ‘drive time’ style and all members are encouraged to have a turn at being ‘The Voice of Woodend Rotary’

Club Forum Directors Reports:                

Community: Grant (who has a shiny new district badge that he wants you all to admire)
A recent Community Service Forum was held at Camp Getaway and it fleshed out the District Assembly presentations where often only a few minutes are allowed on different projects. There are 24 District programs and even with a full day there wasn’t enough time to present all of them comprehensively so there will be a second day held in Melbourne later in the year. Club members are welcome to attend. Feed back on the Drought Relief will be made available soon.

New Generations: John
John has made visits to Braemar, Gisborne Secondary College and he is still working on a visit to Kyneton.
There was an article in the Guardian recently detailing all the youth programs on offer through the Club;
many will fall into next year.

Club Service: Jim (aka Reg)
No report – (I don’t think being on holidays is any sort of an excuse-Ed) but Jim said thanks to all that had
held the fort re organizing guest speakers and that he would leap into action immediately. Remember a new
Bulletin editor is needed asap.

International: Donna
The attaining of Tax deductibility through RAWCs has been wonderful for CKF. Further International
information will be available next week following further planning time. As a follow up to our supporting
Sochea to enable him to become a Rotarian in Cambodia, Donna reported that he would be assisting the
club President in organizing the club meetings. The Phnom Penh club currently has a membership of 7.

Careers Night: Gordon
A joint venture with Kyneton Rotary, our 4 local secondary schools (Braemar, Gisborne, Kyneton & Sacred
Heart) will be involved. The Woodend community Centre has been booked and a ‘speed dating’ system will
be used. Sixteen students from each of the schools will be invited and divided into groups of 4-5. They will
platoon between the various presenters who will talk about “life as a MM..” to provide an insight into the
nuts and bolts of work as a ie: nurse, lawyer, accountant, engineer and so on. Parents catered for in a
separate session. Gordon reports that the career’s teachers are very enthusiastic and will help select the
students who will attend. On the night help will be needed to set up chairs, organize refreshments etc.
Kyneton RC will go halves in the costs. This is a terrific night in the making.

Brendan reported that he attended the Land Care AGM and was thanked for the Club’s donation of $1,000.

New Woodend Star has sent us an end of year financial statement.

Thu. 16/7/09

Donna Cooper addressed the Club on the activities of her Cambodian Kids Foundation

Sat. 11/7/09

Visit to Whittlesea to meet with President Liz Risstrom and members of the Whittlesea RC.   Darren Mayne & Jenni Heenan from ShelterBox also attended, participating in a discussion of post bushfire recovery and the assistance we could give.

Thu. 2/7/09

Our own Brendan and Jane presented us with a slide presentation and talk about their recent trip to India. One of the main reasons for going was to see the endangered Bengal tigers in the wild. What a wild and exotic trip it was with elephant walks, majestic forts, amazing old palaces that have been made over into luxury hotels and an over night train trip that I’m sure Jane will never forget. Our thanks to Brendan and Jane for the time that they put into preparing their talk and it must be said that all enjoyed their talk judging by the questions that were asked. Thanks.

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