Posted by Mark Ellis AM

We are in for the long haul. It looks like my Presidency in its second year is going to be hampered by this state of emergency.  Zoom meetings are great for a time poor person like myself. I can conduct meetings from the comfort of my home office in my pjs!!. Thanks to David Fallick, we are having a run of highly interesting and informative speakers. If the restrictions allow us out, we are looking at alternatives to zoom, particularly since we expect Kooyong Tennis Club to protect and provide for their members in preference if there is a numbers game.
 
Tomorrow night’s meeting is no exception since stroke can be prevented and with prompt intervention, be reversed. As a medico, I will be listening with interest. The big problem noted in our medical profession is that, not only mental health issues are arising, but people are neglecting GP check-ups and medical conditions are advancing, as in cancers presenting late. This is happening, and examples are occurring but not reaching the social media. There is a cost to this enforced isolation. Teleconferencing with a GP and specialist is a good adjunct but not meant to be the only avenue of health care.

Issues current;
 
Note that the Grand Official Opening of the Yarra Bank reserve playground has been re-scheduled for Sunday Sept 12th.. This may even be changed since it is an irony that all playgrounds are being locked down to assist the isolation. It is so sad to see a toddler trying to fathom why they cannot go on a swing!  Please watch the Bulletin announcements.

 
October 5th and 26th – Are events set aside to as our club’s effort to raise money for Lift the Lid. The 5th is a dinner at Kooyong and the 26th is a golf day. Elizabeth is a dynamo and a worthy Rotarian to assist and follow. It is great to see someone with so much passion in action. Please watch the bulletin for details. Lockdowns may spoil the arrangements, but we must go on in spite and hope that life just gets better. Life is about being optimistic. By The Way  Elizabeth has a birthday this week.  So forever young!!
 
President Mark