In introducing Terry Williams, Peter highlighted that Terry is Chairman of RVFR Southern Zone, has been President of Packenham Rotary Club, and has also been Assistant Governor of Rotary District 9820. In twenty years, Terry and his wife have raised over a million dollars for community projects.
Guest speaker Terry Williams speaking about the RVFR.
Terry thanked Peter for his introduction and commended the club on its activities and camaraderie before speaking about the RVFR program. Terry noted Rotary is a fellowship organising, and whilst fundraising isn’t compulsory, it is essential in enabling Rotary to support the community.
The RVFR has grown significantly over the past few years, possibly due to restrictions on international travel, and growth in membership means it is always possible to meet new and interesting people. The Southern Zone has members from Victoria, SA and Tasmania and has three annual caravan musters. On average, about 60-70 people attend each muster.
The RVFR generally like to find a local Rotary club to assist as host to promote fellowship and engagement between Rotarians. They usually start their events on a Thursday afternoon, then follow on with a program through to the Sunday, with most participants then departing for home on the Monday.
Lots of interesting things become apparent when they connect with a local Rotary club, and this opens doors which often wouldn’t be available. However, they bring in significant money spend and the RVFR encourages its members to spend money and contribute to local economies during its musters. The Southern Zone group likes to travel around regional Victoria, but they also travel into SA and Tasmania where it has members, and most of all, likes to have fun.
A number of members and guests enjoying Rotary fellowship.
In responding to a number of questions, Terry advised members can go to any activity in any zone at any time. There is also an Annual National Muster which collectively covers the northern, eastern and southern zone.
Jim asked Terry to define a “Recreational Vehicle”, which back in the day may have been a Sandman panel van. Terry noted the RVFR definition is generally a vehicle which can be slept in such as a motorhome, caravan, camper trailer, or ute with a canopy. Some members who are no longer able to tow a van continue to participate in the musters, but can stay in cabins.
Peter thanked Terry for his presentation, and Terry presented his $25 guest speaker donation to “Merri River School”. The club and guests thanked Terry by acclamation.
Noel retook the microphone and reintroduced President Cliff to close the meeting. Cliff also thanked Terry for his presentation, and thanked everyone from the RVFR for joining our club this evening. For the BBQ on Sunday night, Cliff asked all RCWE members going down to be aware that they need to park outside the caravan park, and then walk into the actual caravan park.