Welcome
The meeting commenced with meeting chair Bruce Radford introducing Rotary Grace and the Four-Way Test.
Guests
The club welcomed Hayley Mill from the St. Vincent de Paul Society as the guest speaker.
Other guests included Paul Gaynor and Phil Ives, golfers who support Les’s Sleepout efforts via Containers for Change.
Birthdays and Anniversaries
- Spouse Birthday: Lisa Paton
- Rotary Anniversary: Barb Bailey was recognized for 21 years of service.
International Toast
President David proposed a toast to the Rotary Club of Queenstown, New Zealand (District 9999). Having recently visited the club, he shared details about their similar demographic, their unique "rubber ducky race" fundraiser, and their current search for a meeting venue that offers both a great view and better food.
Bruce Bradford gave a talk on his Rotary journey, which began in 1990 in Biloela.
Presidents Moment
President David provided a brief report, noting his recent time away and expressing gratitude to the Board for admirably running the club in his absence.
Directors Reports
Youth Director Bruce reported that JAX Tyres donated new tyres for the RYDA trailer. In return, they will provide show bags containing road safety materials and advertising to be distributed to the 1,500 students participating in the program.
Members Reports
- Marion Schultz shared news of the passing of Charlie King’s father and confirmed condolences were sent on behalf of the club.
- Les updated the club on his "Sleepout for the Homeless" fundraising, which has reached $9,300.
- Win reported on the U3A conference regarding new member recruitment and shared moving tribute was shared regarding the 83rd anniversary of the sinking of the hospital ship Centaur, including a personal connection to surviving nurse Ellen Savage.
Guest Speaker
Hayley Mill, Fundraising Coordinator for Vinnies on the Sunshine Coast, spoke about the upcoming CEO Sleepout and the regional housing crisis. She highlighted that:
- There are currently 3,500 people on the Sunshine Coast social housing waitlist.
- Rental costs on the coast have increased by 60-70% over five years.
- Les has raised over $40,000 for Vinnies across his years of participation.
- Vinnies is actively working toward securing land for affordable housing projects on the coast.
Sergeants Session
Sergeant Bruce conducted a lively session, fining members including Graeme (Attendance Officer), Clive (seen with a backpack), and Mike. A cross fine was levelled by Will against Clive for a "ride-on mower incident" involving his wife, Sharon. All fines for the evening were donated to Les Pontin’s Vinnies Sleepout appeal.
Raffle Results
Winners included Peter Asher, Clive, David Johnston and Mike.
Upcoming events
- May 21: Vocation Excellence Awards night. Unfortunately there was another glitch with Clubrunner and the invitation has had to be sent out again, so please register again!
- July 4: A farewell meeting for Terka.
