Guest Speaker

District Governor – Jane Cox

Firstly I would like to thank both Russell and Ray for forwarding a report of the DG's address to the club. I have included both.

(Russell Isaac)

Jane has been a Rotary member for fourteen years and as well as holding various portfolios has attended numerous conventions.

DG Jane met with the Board earlier in the day and was keen to gain knowledge of the various club projects. She was impressed with the Hole in One and Art Show among other ventures. She highlighted the East Timor Water Project as one attaining humanitarian objectives. It provides a service that we, at times, take for granted, the ability to access fresh water.

DG Jane reiterated the ongoing need to attract new Rotary members. She was also appreciative of the contribution the club has made to Rotary Foundation.

She outlined a number of future District initiatives making particular mention of Indigenous Programs, praising the clubs assistance toward the Clontarf program.

(Ray Welsford)

In her address to the club, DG Jane Cox covered a range of matters, including, among others:-

1. recognition of the solid projects in which the club is involved, making special reference to the Hole-in-One, the Art Show, and the work in East Timor

2. the fact that RCWE is working with RCWD on the project in New Guinea, emphasising the opportunity to tap Rotary Foundation funds when working with other clubs, locally or overseas

3. the demise of clubs at Dimboola and Kaniva due to loss of population and ageing of current members

4. the need to engage new members, while not losing sight of the need to retain existing members by keeping them happy and involved

5. the opportunity to become more involved with the Rotary Foundation through training and information

6. the great value which comes to all involved in the Youth Exchange Program

7. the exciting possibility of a Peace Ambassador from District 9780 going to one of the “Peace” Universities overseas

8. a Port Fairy Police Officer being sponsored by RCW to the Police mentoring Leadership Program

9. a reminder about Australian Rotary Health, especially its indigenous scholars program

10. the great work being done by the Rotary Club of Nhill in supporting the Karen refugees from Myanmar settling there, and the fact that one young woman has been inducted into the club

11. District Conference 2016 on the pier at Geelong waterfront, 18-20 March – why not come and join in?