Posted by Mark Ellis AM

“Where do the children play” from Cat Stevens seems a great backdrop to the engrossing and high end Rotary project Rotary Overseas Recycled Playgrounds project (RORP) presented by its founder Peter Cribbs form Flemington Rotary and the administrator of RORP, Shradd Sharma.  We were treated to one man’s odyssey to what is a major project for Rotary and in which we are proud participants through our International Service directed by Mark Howlett.  
 
There will be more in the Bulletin but you might remember me commenting that a Rotarian or a club doesn’t work in isolation.  Each Rotarian brings not only their urge to assist our community but also individual expertise.  Rotarians and clubs working together are a powerful force for good.  Remember service above self.  There will always be leaders but there has to be the club as a whole to participate to do good.

A pity it had to be on zoom but we must get used to these wee inconveniences.  There was a reasonable turnout.  I now look forward to us all meeting the Glenferrie Councillor Wes Gault.  Please attend to find out about his plans and comments.  I get to dress up as well!!
 
Now for more serious issues – 
District Recognition Awards – Only recently, I was alerted to this.  We have a chance to show case some of our projects in the Rotary 7 areas of focus.  I would appreciate everyone thinking about what we could put up for these awards.  I have been granted an extension for another couple of weeks.  If you go to the District website, it is all outlined there.
Thankyou to John Hudson helping me on one possible award nomination already.
 
Boroondara Volunteer Expo – is Wed March 17th from 1.00 to 6.00 pm at the Hawthorn Arts Centre in Burwood Road.  Unfortunately, our club was only notified recently and too late to apply for a spot to be involved.  Peter Moore has made sure they notify us next year.  Some other Rotary Clubs (Kew) are there but we missed out.
 
International Project – Mark Howlett is still asking for volunteers to assist dismantling play equipment destined for overseas playgrounds in Sri Lanka, Nepal etc.  Thanks to Simon Messenger it looks like we are getting donation of an impact drill and battery from Bunnings to assist the group.
 
Clean Up Australia – Our community project will require volunteers to clean Patterson’s Reserve.  Alex Marshall has  organised this for a fortnight after the official date.
 
Looking forward to a continued good turnout to out Tuesday gatherings.  Don’t forget to book in advance.  There should be emails to assist us already sent for this Tuesday.
 
President Mark