Presidents Thoughts of the second Meeting of 2012-13

Ngaire chaired the second meeting for the year where she hosted visiting DG Dennis Shore and wife Linda, past DG Keith Ryall and AG Bob Slater.

Highlights were the presentation by Keith Ryall to past President Geoff Dumayne of the RI Presidential Citation to Hawthorn RC for performance in 2011-12. 

Keith explained that there were 11 recipient clubs in District 9800 and described the broad criteria involved in awarding the citation, two especially important ones being membership development and monetary contribution to Rotary Foundation.  As Geoff remarked in response this is an award to the club and he thanked all for their wonderful support.

Doctor John Carre-Riddells update on the injury list noted improvements to Jim Earle (at the meeting), and of Charles Morrison at home now resting.   Others Pip Smibert (leg), Murray Elrington (at home recuperating) and Malcolm Teague (incapacitated ) were mentioned and as always John invited members to give them a call.   Jim Earle a recent first time recipient of John’s pastoral care took the opportunity to pay tribute to him for his caring attention--a sentiment which was echoed by the meeting.

Ngaire thanked all involved for their efforts at the Sunrise BBQ, singly out Gerald Swinnerton for the last minute procurement of apparatus, Meredith Hayes for combating Council bureaucracy, Chris Hanson for his tin rattling and Ian Catthels for extraordinary attendance with his Scottish head gear.  An event like this shows the best of Rotary and here fostered extraordinary fellowship under the common threat of a dark cold morning.

Ngaire introduced DG Dennis who addressed us on his hopes for 2012-13 (see summary below).  Central to that for the Hawthorn Rotary Club is the hosting of the District Conference in next March.   

Ngaire concluded with a thought provoking quote attributed to Gandhi. (Be the change you want to see in the world) and wished all a great week ahead.