Coolamon Rotary News Bulletin #15

{Guest Editor John Glassford}

OCTOBER IS ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MONTH

October Presidential Message

Ian H.S. Riseley

President 2017-18

October 2017

Some years ago in the Melbourne, Australia, museum where my daughter used to work, an iron lung was on display. For most people my age who remembered the terrifying polio epidemics of the 1950s, that iron lung was a testament to how far vaccination had brought us: to the point where that once-critical piece of medical equipment had literally become a museum piece.

FULL STORY HERE

MEETING OCTOBER 16th 2017

Monday nights at the Coolamon Sports and Recreation Club is where we meet, debate, discuss, have fun and get things off the chest.  Last night was no exception, a red hot meeting between passionate people.

Another good role up from our members with three guests, all three potential members, let us hope they went home intrigued and excited to join us.  We welcomed Sarah Collins, Will Cartwright and Barry Lillywhite to our meeting.

Youth was the main topic discussed at length last night and our Youth Exchange programme.

REMINDER and call for volunteers:

We are happy to announce and privileged to conduct the catering for the clearing sale upcoming Saturday 28th October at:

Ron and Monica Hogg’s property “Clear View”

Millwood Road COOLAMON {14kms out on the Millwood Road simply follow the signs from Coolamon}.

WE WILL NEED ALL HANDS AS THIS WILL BE A VERY LARGE GATHERING FROM 8.30AM

SO LET US KNOW YOUR AVAILABILITY PLEASE.

The following items were discussed or reported on during the meeting:

District AGM at Young

District Grant for Membership Sustainability.

Tree planting

Caravan refurbishmemnt

Telephone Book Edit

New Year’s Eve in Coolamon

Youth Exchange Programme

Easter Saturday Markets

Moo Poo Bags available for $7 per bag. 3 bags for $20Available from Delta Ag (Coolamon) and Ag & Vet (Ganmain).Delivery available: phone Dave on 6927 8553 0r Wayne on 0427 311 174

D9700 REQUEST FOR UNIFORMITY

D9700 Administration Director, PDG Gary Roberts and D9700 Executive Secretary and Web Master, Paul Murray have asked all the clubs in our District 9700 to bring their data base up to date.    We have brought our list up to date and it can be found on club runner D9700 web site.

District 9700 Web Site

The following positions are those that D9700 uses for mail distribution:

President

President Elect

Immediate Past President

Treasurer

Secretary

Administration Director

Foundation Director

Membership Director

Youth Director

Service Projects Director

Public Image Director

Bulletin Editor

Sergeant @ Arms

DIARY.

Thursday, October 19th. Board meeting at the Coolamon Recreation Club.

Monday, October 23rd*: Guest speaker meeting.  Joanne Connoley, CSU lecturer and Coolamon resident, will give a presentation on platypus and wildlife. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Saturday October 28th. Clearing Sale Ron and Monica Hogg’s Property Clear View Millwood Road Coolamon. Roster starts at 8.30am.

Monday, October 30th*: Special meeting. Tour of Howard Atkinson and Ann Baker’s renovated convent which will be operating as a function centre, followed by dinner prepared by Ann.  Convent, Bruce St, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Lucia Bohnsack (our exchange student).  Lucia will be the guest speaker at the Convent.

Monday, November 6th*: Guest speaker meeting TBA.

Thursday, November 9th. BINGO. Roster: Ian Jennings (Capt.), Daryl Breust, Garth Perkin, John Nulty.

Sunday, November 12th. DisTec17. Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training. Young, 10.00 am-4.00 pm.

Wednesday, November 15th. Board Meeting.

Monday, November 20th.  AGM and Election of Officers.

Thursday December 14th. BINGO. Grahame (Capt.), Bernadette, Myffy, John B.

Thursday February 8th 2018. BINGO. Henk (Capt.), Rod, Dick, Alex.

Saturday & Sunday, March 4th & 5th, 2018. PETS (President Elects Training Seminar).

Sunday, March 5th, 2018. D9700 Assembly. ALL Club Board Members to attend.  Young, 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday & Sunday, May 5th & 6th, 2018. D9700 CONFERENCE. Roxy Theatre, Leeton.  Book accommodation early!

———————————————————–

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 196 BY FRIDAY

FOOTNOTE

REMINDER TO ALL if you are changing or ordering new shirts, caps and banners please use the new Rotary Logo.

Get your items from Rotary Down Under:

ROTARY DOWN UNDER CLOTHING

DISTRICT GOVERNOR ELECT NEWS:

Last week I attended in all 7 meetings:

Probably the most enjoyable was the Sydney Rotary Club’s Rotary Means Business Breakfast meeting at the Grace Hotel in York Street.

Rotary Means Business Sydney Rotary Club

Personal Brand Photographer, Zahrina Robertson, was the guest presenter at Sydney Rotary Club’s monthly Business and Networking Breakfast.  Only 2 silver haired gentlemen there all  the others are young and some potential Rotarians as well. This is an excellent way to meet potential customers and to introduce people to Rotary.

Rotary Means Business Meetings Sydney

Our guest speaker was Personal Brand Photographer, Zahrina Robertson:

http://zahrinaphotography.com/

COOLAMON GLOBAL GRANT UNDER WAY

Kisiriri Primary School

We are working in partnership with the Rotary Club of Milimani D9212 in Kenya and the Lake Chelan Rotary Club in the USA to provide funds for the school in Narok with over 630 primary school children.

The team from District 9212 who will supervise and implement the Global Grant when completed and approved by the Rotary Foundation.  This is the last of the funds from the 2007 Kilimanjaro Climb.  Seen here with JG in Atlanta at the RAGES booth.

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 196.

ROTARY CLUB OF COOLAMON Inc. 2017-2018

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL 2017-2018

President Ian Riseley RC of Sandringham Melbourne

President Elect Barry Rassin RC of East Nassau The Bahamas

District 9700 Governor George Weston RC of Leeton

District 9700 Governor Elect John Glassford RC of Coolamon

Week of 9th October

Last night’s meeting was a busy night with 30 Coolamon and Junee members and guests attending. It was a slightly different meeting as we had a film crew, filming a short segment for an upcoming promotional video promoting the benefits of living in regional areas. Junee Rotary’s new exchange student, Allan from Taiwan, and their outbound exchange student, Jasmin Phillips, attended the meeting, as did Coolamon’s exchange student from Germany (Lucia Bohnsack) and outbound student Jackson Wykes.

John B. bought the new PA system to the meeting; it has 2 microphones, a USB port, bluetooth and a remote. The system works very well; everyone could hear what was being said.

Dick moved a motion that Coolamon Rotary provides the catering for Ronny and Mon Hogg’s clearing sale on the 28th October and that all money raised  be donated to cancer research. John Higginson from Junee Rotary offered Coolamon the use of their mobile BBQ Trailer for the clearing sale if our food van isn’t able to be used.

Daryl thanked everyone who helped with the smooth running of Bears and Gears especially members’ partners who baked Anzac biscuits. Daryl estimates there were 600 bike riders on the ride. A big thank you for the big effort by members who worked in the food van; it was a long and busy day, well done.

Music 4 Mates and Shear 4 Mates event is being held at Coolamon Sports and Rec Club this weekend. If you are attending and would like to help out, please tell the organisers and they will find something for you to do.

Junee and Coolamon combined meeting

Allan and Lucia

Allan has been in Australia for only a short time, and it has been a big adjustment for him. Allan’s home town in Taiwan has a population of 3.9 million people, and the school he attends at home has 2500 students. Junee has 200 students and all of Junee knows he’s an exchange student. Allan has been busy since arriving; he has been camping, but he has to work on his fitness as he has found it hard climbing mountains. I’m sure Allan will enjoy his stay in Junee.

Lucia updated the members on what she has been up to. Lucia has been in Coolamon for 10 weeks; she started off in year 10 at Coolamon Central School when she arrived, but she is now in year 11. Lucia said the Australian education system is much less demanding than the German system. Lucia has been on a school excursion to Canberra visiting Old and New Parliament House and the War Memorial; she would like to return to Canberra to spend more time looking around. Lucia is surprised at how cold it is here and enjoyed the chance to go skiing. She also enjoyed a visit to Bermagui, walking on the beach and swimming.

Clare Munro’s Trip to Papua New Guinea

Clare was not able to attend Monday’s meeting to accept the donation for the mission she will be visiting. Clare provided this message:

Please accept my apologies for not being present to accept your mission donation.

Thank you for the invitation to tell you of my upcoming trip to Papua New Guinea. My cousin Bernadette regularly visits PNG to support/mentor the Presentation Nuns in the west Sepik region and she has agreed for me to visit with her on this occasion.

As a retired Community Nurse it is hoped I may be able to speak with the sisters, approx 25, on a one-on-one basis in an effort to ensure they are caring for their own health. (They lost their much loved leader to breast cancer last year). Encourage them to seek help early & maybe change some habits.

No doubt this will be an extreme learning curve for me, I hope & pray I can earn some trust from the local nuns and not become a burden to anyone.

I’m looking forward to visiting the local hospital, a mission health clinic and participating in the Family Violence workshop to be run by Gary Austin from USA.

Sydney to Port Moresby Fly 4 hrs

Port Moresby – Wewak Fly 2 hrs with a stop at Madang, Stay a day or two, hopefully catch up with the 3 nuns currently doing their HSC examinations. These ladies are in their 20’s +.

Wewak – Aitape 5 hrs in a Glorified truck with seats on the back but Bern promises me the front seat, travel time depends on the state of the rivers, maybe I’m in for a “walk on water” Apparently you dry off very quickly. Will spend most of our time in Aitape.

Aitape-Arop and Malol, the areas decimated by the tsunami 1998. This ia apparently one of the most beautiful areas in the world.

Aitape-Ningil on the truck again for about 4 hrs, dirt floor school rooms, medical clinic etc. Convent burnt down recently.

Thank you and kind regards,

Clare Munro

Mental Health Forum

The Mental Health Forum held on the 27th of September was a very informative and well attended night. David Post and John Harper launched ROC (Rural Outreach Counselling) a new not-for-profit counselling service. The Leeton Carlo’s Riders Club screened their DVD, Our Stories of Depression, which showed people suffering from mental illness sharing their stories and struggles. Some of the people on the DVD were present on the night and spoke to the audience about how they are on the road to recovery and how to get help. There were a number of people who were in the audience who also spoke of their struggles. Copies of the DVD, Our Stories of Depression, were handed out on the night; if you would like to watch this DVD, I’m sure Wayne Lewis would have a few copies. I have a copy if anyone would like to borrow it.

Congratulations Alex

Alex received the Coaches Award at Coolamon Rovers Football Presentation night

Lost BLUE ROTARY BANNER — does anyone know where it is???

MOO POO TIME AGAIN

$7 per bag. 3 bags for $20

Available from Delta Ag (Coolamon) and Ag & Vet (Ganmain).

Delivery available: phone Dave on 6927 8553 0r Wayne on 0427 311 174.

On the Lighter Side

Things I never knew:

• A rat can last longer without water than a camel.
• The dot over the letter i is called a tittle.
• A raisin dropped into a fresh glass of champagne will bounce up and down continuously from top to the bottom of the glass to the top.
• A duck’s quack doesn’t echo and nobody knows why.
• On average, 12 newborns will be given to the wrong parents daily.

DIARY

Thursday, October 12th: BINGO. Allawah Lodge, 6:45 pm. Roster: Neil (Capt.), Don, Alex, Dick.

Sunday, October 15th: D9700 AGM and President’s Forum. Young Country Club, 10.00 am-1.00 pm.

Monday, October 16th: Business Meeting.  Coolamon Sport and Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Wednesday, October 18th: Board meeting.

Monday, October 23rd*: Guest speaker meeting.  Joanne Connoley, CSU lecturer and Coolamon resident, will give a presentation on platypus and wildlife. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Monday, October 30th*: Special meeting. Tour of Howard Atkinson and Ann Baker’s renovated convent which will be operating as a function centre, followed by dinner prepared by Ann.  Convent, Bruce St, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Monday, November 6th*: Guest speaker meeting. Lucia Bohnsack (exchange student). Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Thursday, November 9th: BINGO. Roster: Ian (Capt.), Daryl, Garth, John N.

Sunday, November 12th: DisTec17. Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training. Young, 10.00 am-4.00 pm.

Wednesday, November 15th. Board Meeting.

Monday, November 20th: AGM and Election of Officers. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Wednesday, November 22nd. Board Meeting.

Thursday, December 14th: BINGO. Grahame (Capt.), Bernadette, Myffy, John B.

Thursday, February 8th: BINGO. Henk (Capt.), Rod, Dick, Alex.

Saturday & Sunday, March 4th & 5th, 2018. PETS (President Elects Training Seminar).

Sunday, March 5th, 2018: D9700 Assembly. ALL Club Board Members to attend.  Young, 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th: BINGO. Neil (Capt.), Dave, Don, Leslie.

Saturday & Sunday, May 5th & 6th: D9700 CONFERENCE. Roxy Theatre, Leeton.  Book accommodation early!

———————————————————–

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

Coolamon Rotary News Bulletin #13

Congratulations Tigers supporter Daryl Breust great game!!!

{Guest Editor John Glassford}

OCTOBER IS ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MONTH

Rise of the female Honduran entrepreneur

BUSINESS: Coffee Growing & Harvesting

TIME WITH ADELANTE: 2 Years

DEPARTMENT: Intibucá

It takes over three hours to get out to Silvia’s tiny village from La Esperanza, the hub of the Western Highlands in Intibucá, but it is well worth the journey.

It takes over three hours to get out to Silvia’s tiny village from La Esperanza, the hub of the Western Highlands in Intibucá, but it is well worth the journey.

“I have suggested to other women the benefits of working with Adelante. You learn so much. You learn how to manage your loans. If you don’t have the funds you can’t learn how to manage them. You can have good ideas and ambition but until you have the funds you cannot learn how to use them”

SYLVIA

Adelante collaborates, through Rotary’s global grants, with the Rotary Club of Real de Minas-Tegucigalpa (Honduras), the Rotary Club of Poway-Scripps (California, USA), and several other clubs from District 5340 (California, USA). With the help of Rotary, Adelante has been able to provide business training and 600 loans to its clients. The partnership continues to grow in the departments of Intibucá and La Paz.

Week of 2nd October

Geers & Bears Sunday to help the Wollundry Wagga Wagga Rotary Club with this amazing event.  All hands on deck as marshalls and cooks.  A full report next week.  However we hear that Bernadette’s Anzac cookies were a great hit.

John Bond on duty.

Leslie Weston wrote:

Today was a great day for the 3rd annual Gears and Beers Ride developed by Rotary Club of Wollundry Wagga Wagga and supported by Coolamon Rotary Club. This year there were over 1700 riders from across Australia who entered in the ride with longest race the “Dirty 130” km and the shortest 10 km. Over 800 entered the Rapha sponsored Dirty 130……this year! John Bond and I marshalled the Dirty 130 turn from Millwood Road to Williamson Lane and there were a few spills and some bandaging, given the speed of the competitive riders (but only two spills thankfully).

You can see the turn is steep and the dirt is long and tricky with hills and bumps. They complete in less than 2 hours. The 105 km race goes right through Coolamon with a rest stop across from the Coolamon Hotel, all supported by Rotary Club of Coolamon. Was great fun but an early start, given daylight savings! Next year we anticipate over 2000 riders. Following on is the Beers and Gears craft beer and cider festival which is open to the public all day today !

GREAT FIRE ENGINE MUSTER

Also on the weekend Coolamon hosted the Great Fire Engine Muster organised by the Coolamon Fire Museum.  Rotary managed the Rotary food van.

Downtown Coolamon was hopping with heaps of visitors on hand to see new and historic fire engines as well as antique and modern sports cars, supported by the Wagga Wagga Historic Car Club, the MG club and Holden Commodore clubs. Open all day with demonstrations and music!

Thank you Leslie!

WOLLUNDRY PHOTOS:

Looks like Bernadette’s ANZAC cookies!

SOMETHING LIGHT

A blonde calls her boyfriend and says, “Please come over here and help me. I have a killer jigsaw puzzle, and I can’t figure out how to get it started.”

He asks, “What is it supposed to be when it’s finished?”
The blonde says, “According to the picture on the box, it’s a rooster.”

Her boyfriend decides to go over and help with the puzzle. She lets him in and shows him where she has the puzzle spread all over the table.

He studies the pieces for a moment, then looks at the box, then turns to her and says, “First of all, no matter what we do, we’re not going to be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a rooster.”

He takes her hand and says, “Second, I want you to relax, and then…..” he sighed, “we’ll put all these Corn Flakes back in the box.”

DIARY.

Monday, October 9th. Joint Meeting with Junee Rotary*. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Thursday, October 12th. BINGO. Allawah Lodge, 6:45 pm. Roster: Neil (Capt.), Don, Alex, Dick.

Sunday, October 15th. D9700 AGM and President’s Forum. Young Country Club, 10.00 am-1.00 pm.

Wednesday, October 18th. Board meeting.

Thursday, November 9th. BINGO. Roster: Ian (Capt.), Daryl, Garth, John N.

Sunday, November 12th. DisTec17. Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training. Young, 10.00 am-4.00 pm.

Wednesday, November 15th. Board Meeting.

Monday, November 20th.  AGM and Election of Officers.

Thursday December 14th. BINGO. Grahame (Capt.), Bernadette, Myffy, John B.

Thursday February 8th 2018. BINGO. Henk (Capt.), Rod, Dick, Alex.

Saturday & Sunday, March 4th & 5th, 2018. PETS (President Elects Training Seminar).

Sunday, March 5th, 2018. D9700 Assembly. ALL Club Board Members to attend.  Young, 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday & Sunday, May 5th & 6th, 2018. D9700 CONFERENCE. Roxy Theatre, Leeton.  Book accommodation early!

———————————————————–

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

FOOTNOTE

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

Coolamon Rotary News Bulletin #12

{Guest Editor John Glassford}

SEPTEMBER IS BASIC LITERACY & EDUCATION MONTH

TRACY MONICA OCHIENG

This young lady is one of our sponsored students that we support through the Rotary Club of Coolamon’s Road MAPS to Africa projects.

The Mountains of the Moon team met Tracy in Mathare, one of the worst slums in the world, in Nairobi, Kenya.  We decided to support Tracy into high school and onto University.  We would like to report that Tracy has now been accepted at the United States International University in Nairobi.

Tracy nows enters her second semester and is studying for her Bachelor of Pharmacy degree.  This is an amazing story and one that we should all be proud of being a part of Tracy’s journey.

Above: A quick look at the start of Tracy’s journey

Below: The power of Rotary one child at a time.  Tracy last month in Nairobi:

Proud to wear her lab coat!

Week of 25th September

The annual visit of our District Governor took place this week.  DG George Weston and Carol Weston were our main guests for the meeting accompanied by our Assistant Governor Bryan Short and Sally Short.  We also had a delegation from the Wollundry Rotary Club, Phil McIntosh, David Byfield and Frank Fuller.

Visiting Rotarian and Assistant Governor Robert Bradin from D9685.  Robert is in Coolamon visiting his family.  Robert is a member of the RC of Rouse Hill in Sydney so next time you are in Sydney make up a meeting at his club.

Our bubbly exchange student Lucia Bohnsack was with us again, great to see you Lucy, promise to have a club pin for you next time.  Our own outgoing exchange student Jackson Wykes was present and is looking forward to Finland in January.

Other guests included Heather McKinley, Susan Glassford, Helen Lewis AND Will Cartwright.  Will works at Coolamon Butchers and is keen to serve his community.  Will is exactly what Rotary needs right now.  Come back again Will you will be very welcome.

We had a talk by the team from Wollundry led by PP Phil McIntosh on the upcoming Gears & Beers bike ride.  There will be over 700 riders in this event and Phil handed out the books to guide our marshalls.  Very professional and well organised.  I know that Coolamon will do our part over the event.  PE Daryl Breust is our coordinator and in charge of the cow bells!

PP Phil McIntosh from Wollundry addresses the meeting on Geers & Bears.

Mental Health Forum

Wayne Lewis is still busy  organising the second Mental Health Forum to be held on the 27th September 6pm, at the Coolamon Sports and Recreation Club. Wayne has been approached by local people who are dealing with Mental Health issues, who will be present on the night and will be telling their personal stories.

We need volunteers for the BBQ see Wayne for the roster.

DG George and Carol Weston’s Visit

DG George Weston setting up his projector for the talk.

The main event of the night was the presentation by DG George Weston on his plans for this Rotary year.  George and Carol own and run Weston and Weston Air Conditioners based in Leeton with a branch in Wagga Wagga and one opening up in Albury.  George is also the Deputy Mayor of Leeton Shire Council.

George has been a Rotarian for 35 years his family migrated to Australia when George was 15.   George has a strategic plan for D9700 which has three parts:

1.  Enjoy Rotary and what your club offers.
2.  Involve our Youth with programmes like Youth Exchange and RYLA.  Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.
3.  Support our own charity the Rotary Foundation.

George showed us what a Global Grant from our Foundation can do in East Timor to provide clean water.  Our International President Ian Riseley left us a message to get behind his 1.2 million tree planting campaign to culminate on Earth Day April 22nd. 2018.

RI President Riseley planted a tree in the Friendship Forest, located within Thingvellir National Park in Iceland. President Riseley’s tree planting initiative encourages Rotary clubs to have a one tree planted for every member of their club by Earth Day, 22 April 2018. Share your club’s involvement by using #pledgetoplant.

DG George reminded us that  his conference will be in Leeton from May 4-6th.  2018. Book your accommodation early to avoid the night driving home!

Thank you DG George and Carol for attending last night and we enjoyed your company and friendship.

The evening finished with a good raffle of three prizes and another great fines session by Sergeant Ted Hutcheon.

Best tie award to PE Daryl Breust with his Tigers tie, hope they win Daryl.

SOMETHING LIGHT

Sent in by Henk Hulsman:

Canberra airport ticket agent offers some examples of why our country is in trouble:

A. I had a female politician ask for an aisle seat so that her hair wouldn’t get messed up by being near the window.

I ask you, on an airplane?

B. Senator Bronwyn Bishop, a former Speaker of the House and a serial travel extravagant (at taxpayers’ expense) called to enquire about a trip package to Hawaii.

After going over all the cost info, she asked, ”Would it be cheaper to fly to California and then take the train to Hawaii?”

Many from where that one came from thanks Henk.

DIARY.

Wednesday 27th September:  Mental Health Forum in Coolamon.  See Wayne Lewis for details.

Sunday, October 1st. Gears & Beers. ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty.

Monday, October 2nd. No meeting (public holiday).

Monday, October 9th. Joint Meeting with Junee Rotary*. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Thursday, October 12th. BINGO. Allawah Lodge, 6:45 pm. Roster: Neil (Capt.), Don, Alex, Dick.

Sunday, October 15th. D9700 AGM and President’s Forum. Young Country Club, 10.00 am-1.00 pm.

Thursday, November 9th. BINGO. Roster: Ian (Capt.), Daryl, Garth, John N.

Sunday, November 12th. DisTec17. Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training. Young, 10.00 am-4.00 pm.

Monday, November 20th.  AGM and Election of Officers.

Wednesday, November 22nd. Board Meeting.

Thursday December 14th. BINGO. Grahame (Capt.), Bernadette, Myffy, John B.

Thursday February 8th 2018. BINGO. Henk (Capt.), Rod, Dick, Alex.

Saturday & Sunday, March 4th & 5th, 2018. PETS (President Elects Training Seminar).

Sunday, March 5th, 2018. D9700 Assembly. ALL Club Board Members to attend.  Young, 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday & Sunday, May 5th & 6th, 2018. D9700 CONFERENCE. Roxy Theatre, Leeton.  Book accommodation early!

———————————————————–

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

FOOTNOTE

The other Weston and Weston team are winning plenty of ribbons with Frank or is it Bradley!

This time in Lockhart Paul and Leslie with Frank!

PS I sat next to Will Cartwright our guest and found Will to be a very smart young man with a strong desire to help in the community.  Will comes from Temora and I am sure will be a great asset to our club once Will gets to know us a bit better.  Will is a Millennial and I have been reading good  stories about this generation we call the Millennials.  Most impressed.

They are the most threatening and exciting generation since the baby boomers brought about social revolution, not because they’re trying to take over the Establishment but because they’re growing up without one. Australia has around 25% of our population that can be called Millennials or around 6 million Australians.

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

In the foreground: Saturn.
Tiny blue pixel on the right: All of human civilization.

This photo was taken by NASA’s Cassini spacecraft, which after 13 years in orbit, initiated its final collision course with Saturn just a reminder!

Week of 18th September

There was a good turn up for tonights meeting. Henk advised us that the sample Phone Book should be ready in the near future.

John Nulty would like members to advise him ASAP if they are unable to attend a meeting, or if you are bringing a guest. It is important to have exact numbers for catering.

Bingo on Thursday was very good for some of the players on the night, with $150 jackpot going off and the $300 incentive Jackpot being won by Grahame Miles. It pays to attended Bingo and enter the draw. The incentive of $300 has worked as book sales have increased, but player numbers have not increased. The $300 incentive will be on offer again until December. There were a few ideas bought up tonight on how we can entice more people to play Bingo, if anyone has any ideas please let us know.

Coolamon Sports Club are holding a Thursday night Disco during the School Holidays for the Children, they have asked for help with the purchase of Sausages for the Sausage Sizzle. It was agreed to donate $100 to the Club for the Disco Night. It was during the discussion about the Disco that the question was asked “does anyone know where the Blue Light Disco equipment is located?” If you know where it is could you let President Paul know.

Beers and Gears Rosters will be distributed next week. The Fruit Cake has been organised and the Anzac Biscuit’s are being baked by the Ladies who volunteered. The Food Van menu suggestions are Sausages and a Lamb Burger, the Roster for the Food Van will also be distributed next week.

Ricky Hard is looking for a shed large enough to fit the Food Van in so he can paint it, please let the club know if anyone has or knows of a shed that would be suitable.

Dick Jennings and Neil Munro spoke about Clare Munro’s trip to Papua New Guinea with Sister Bernadette Patterson. Clare will be away for 2 weeks travelling to villages in remote areas and checking on the Presentation Sister health and to help in the communities that they live in. Dick has suggested that Coolamon Rotary make a donation for Clare to take with her to help with the work that the Presentation Sisters are doing in Papua New Guinea. Neil is going to ask Clare if she will give a short talk at the Club meeting on the 9th October about her trip.

The 9th October will be a joint meeting with the Junee Rotary Club at the Coolamon Sports Club. Junee Rotary will be bring their Taiwanese Exchange Student to the meeting.

Wayne Lewis won the Raffle

Beers and Gears

Wollundry Rotary members will be attending Monday 25th September to give an update on the Beers and Gears weekend.

DG George and Carol Weston’s Visit

Monday 25th September dress code Ladies smart, Gentlemen jackets and Ties. 

Mental Health Forum

Wayne Lewis is still busy  organising the second Mental Health Forum to be held on the 27th September 6pm, at the Coolamon Sports and Recreation Club. Wayne has been approached by local people who are dealing with Mental Health issues, who will be present on the night and will be telling their personal stories. This event is being supported by the combined charity groups of Coolamon. There will be a BBQ and salads on the night for a gold coin donation. It would be a appreciated if those attending could bring a plate of cake, slice or biscuits to share over a cuppa after the guest speakers have finished their presentation.

There will be a number of HELP organisations present, Riverina Bluebell, Music for Mates, Mate Helping Mate, Calo’s Riding Club and Introspective. David Post will be launching his Rural Outreach Service and a presentation and screening of the DVD, Our Stories of Depression.

SOMETHING LIGHT

DIARY.

Wednesday, September 20th. Board Meeting. Weston’s residence,  Millwood Road, 7.30 pm.

Monday, September 25th.  DG George and Carol Weston’s visit. Executive and Directors to meet with DG George before the meeting (time TBA). Please bring your partners and support our District Governor. Gentlemen ties and jackets please.  Ladies smart as always. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Sunday, October 1st. Gears & Beers. ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty.

Monday, October 2nd. No meeting (public holiday).

Monday, October 9th. Joint Meeting with Junee Rotary*. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7 pm.

Thursday, October 12th. BINGO. Allawah Lodge, 6:45 pm. Roster: Neil (Capt.), Don, Alex, Dick.

Sunday, October 15th. D9700 AGM and President’s Forum. Young Country Club, 10.00 am-1.00 pm.

Thursday, November 9th. BINGO. Roster: Ian (Capt.), Daryl, Garth, John N.

Sunday, November 12th. DisTec17. Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training. Young, 10.00 am-4.00 pm.

Monday, November 20th.  AGM and Election of Officers.

Wednesday, November 22nd. Board Meeting.

Thursday December 14th. BINGO. Grahame (Capt.), Bernadette, Myffy, John B.

Thursday February 8th 2018. BINGO. Henk (Capt.), Rod, Dick, Alex.

Saturday & Sunday, March 4th & 5th, 2018. PETS (President Elects Training Seminar).

Sunday, March 5th, 2018. D9700 Assembly. ALL Club Board Members to attend.  Young, 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday & Sunday, May 5th & 6th, 2018. D9700 CONFERENCE. Roxy Theatre, Leeton.  Book accommodation early!

———————————————————–

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

Week of 11th September

This weeks meet was attended by 15 members and 1 guests. The AGM looks like being held on the 20th November

Neil Munro raised the idea of having the Peace and Bali plaques freshened up for Peace Day in 2019. This will be discussed further at the Board Meeting. Neil, advised that the Lifter for the Hospital cost is $4950.

Wayne Lewis updated us on the kind donation of 1500 round bales of hay by Barry McKay. Barry would like the money raised to help the local community. Wayne suggested the Rural Outreach Counselling which is a self funded service helping the local community. Finding a suitable storage location for the Rotary Food Van is still on going. Wayne found a storage location which would be suitable at the cost of $38 a week for 1 year. A more permanent solution was raised at the meeting and is being investigated. This option is is to investigate if an area can be found at the Coolamon Show Ground and a shed erected for a permanent home for the food van. The meeting voted on an passed a motion for Mark Reardon to go ahead with the purchase of a new exhaust fan for the Van, this will make working in the van a bit more comfortable.

Daryl Breust advised that the roster for Beers and Gears has been sent off and waiting to be finalised. Daryl will email the roster to the members who have volunteered to man check points when it has been sent to him.

Leslie and Paul Weston continue to have great success with their dachshunds!

There was a good turn out by members to help with the catering for the Junior Football Presentation night. Graham Dennis from the Lions Club also put in a big effort on one of the BBQ. Thank you to Clare Munro for getting the bread organised for the sausages and rissoles to be served up. It was a good night everyone was happy with the food and it was good to see everyone enjoying themselves.

Howard busy cooking.

Beers and Gears

Wollundry Rotary members will be attending Monday 25th September to give an update on the Beers and Gears weekend.

DG George and Carol Weston’s Visit

Monday 25th September dress code Ladies smart, Gentlemen jackets and Ties. 

Mental Health Forum

Wayne Lewis is still busy  organising the second Mental Health Forum to be held on the 27th September 6pm, at the Coolamon Sports and Recreation Club. Wayne has been approached by local people who are dealing with Mental Health issues, who will be present on the night and will be telling their personal stories. This event is being supported by the combined charity groups of Coolamon. There will be a BBQ and salads on the night for a gold coin donation. It would be a appreciated if those attending could bring a plate of cake, slice or biscuits to share over a cuppa after the guest speakers have finished their presentation.

There will be a number of HELP organisations present, Riverina Bluebell, Music for Mates, Mate Helping Mate, Calo’s Riding Club and Introspective. David Post will be launching his Rural Outreach Service and a presentation and screening of the DVD, Our Stories of Depression.

SOMETHING LIGHT

DIARY.

Thursday September 14th 2017, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Dave McKinley, Wayne Lewis, Ivan Furner

Monday September 25th.  DG George and Carol Weston’s visit. Executive and Directors to meet with DG George before the meeting. Please bring your partners and support our District Governor. Gentlemen ties and jackets please.  Ladies smart as always.

Wednesday 20th November Board Meeting at the Westons.

Sunday October 1st Gears & Beers ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty

Thursday October 12th 2017, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Alex Thompson, Don Dyce, Dick Jennings

Sunday October 15th D9700 AGM and President’s Forum 2017-2018 Presidents. YOUNG, 10.00am-1.00pm.

Thursday November 9th 2017, BINGO Ian Jennings Capt, Daryl Breust, Garth Perkin, John Nulty

Sunday, 12th November:  DisTec17 in Young 10.00am-4.00pm.  Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training.

Monday 20th November: AGM and Election of Officers.

Thursday December 14th 2017, BINGO Grahame Miles Capt, Bernadette Milne, Myffy Collette, John Bond

Thursday February 8th 2018, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Rod Jarrett, Dick Jennings, Alex Thompson

Saturday, 4th March and Sunday 5th March 2018 PETS.  Young.  President Elects Training Seminar.

Sunday 5th March 2018 D9700 Assembly ALL Club Board Members to attend in Young from 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday 5th May to Sunday 6th May 2018 D9700 CONFERENCE in Leeton venue the Leeton ROXY Theatre.  Book accommodation early!

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

DISTRICT 9700 DIARY

Just a section for our DGE to keep you in touch with District matters:

JG is back from Darwin and had an amazing time learning how to be a DG  and above all making new friends.  here is an example of what Rotary does and can do across the oceans:

JG with Susan and DGN Joe Otin from D9212 East Africa.  Joe is from Nairobi in Kenya.

Joe had a great time and here is his email:

G’day John and Susan,

We have an African saying that goes ‘if you want to go fast go alone, but if you want to go far go together’.

This week we went together and in my mind we went far (and returned fast too) and it will be one of the most memorable trips of my life. It’s less about the Outback and more about the company and conversations we had during the trip to Kakadu.

I’ve got to say that the TV series Neighbours doesn’t portray the special people Down Under and experiencing your culture for myself greatly surpassed the high expectations I had of your country and people.

I’m glad that we got the chance to talk about Kenya and I didn’t get to feel home sick because I was with a fellow Kenyan through the trip.

Susan, your sense of humor and your passion for life are beyond measure. By the end of the trip I was wondering why I couldn’t hear the distinctive Australian accent with the people we met along the way, but perhaps it was because I had began to assimilate with your infectious culture and philosophy of consuming life with a big spoon.

I had no idea that this was going to be such a momentous trip and I feel that I have gained so much by spending time with you and I’m looking forward to exchanging ideas and strengthening Rotary in our respective regions as well as looking at opportunities for our businesses.

Cheers mate and have a safe flight back to Wonga Wonga.

Joe.

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

Week of 28th. August

This weeks meeting was well attended with 17 members and 17 guests present. Wayne Lewis, informed the meeting that a donation of 50 round bales of oaten hay has been made to the club. Wayne is looking for suggestions on how the money raised from this donation can be utilised by the club.

Dick Jennings is looking for volunteers to help with catering for the Coolamon Junior Football and Netball presentation night this Saturday night from 4.15 pm – 6.30pm.

Guest Speaker Gemma Meier presentation on how Community’s can take control over their energy needs, keep money and jobs in the local community was very informative and thought provoking

Beers and Gears

Wollundry Rotary members will be attending Monday 25th September to give an update on the Beers and Gears weekend.

Mental Heath Forum

Wayne Lewis is organising the second Mental Health Forum to be held on the 27th September 6pm, at the Coolamon Sports and Recreation Club. This event is being supported by the combined charity groups of Coolamon. There will be a BBQ and salads on the night for a gold coin donation. It would be a appreciated if those attending could bring a plate of cake, slice or biscuits to share over a cuppa after the guest speakers have finished their presentation.

There will be a number of HELP organisations present, Riverina Bluebell, Music for Mates, Mate Helping Mate, Calo’s Riding Club and Introspective. David Post will be launching his Rural Outreach Service and a presentation and screening of the DVD, Our Stories of Depression

DIARY.

Saturday 9th September: GANMAIN Trivia Night. Details to follow.

Thursday September 14th 2017, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Dave McKinley, Wayne Lewis, Ivan Furner

Monday September 25th.  DG George and Carol Weston’s visit. Executive and Directors to meet with DG George before the meeting. Please bring your partners and support our District Governor. Gentlemen ties and jackets please.  Ladies smart as always.

Sunday October 1st Gears & Beers ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty

Thursday October 12th 2017, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Alex Thompson, Don Dyce, Dick Jennings

Sunday October 15th D9700 AGM and President’s Forum 2017-2018 Presidents. YOUNG, 10.00am-1.00pm.

Thursday November 9th 2017, BINGO Ian Jennings Capt, Daryl Breust, Garth Perkin, John Nulty

Sunday, 12th November:  DisTec17 in Young 10.00am-4.00pm.  Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training.

Thursday December 14th 2017, BINGO Grahame Miles Capt, Bernadette Milne, Myffy Collette, John Bond

Thursday February 8th 2018, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Rod Jarrett, Dick Jennings, Alex Thompson

Saturday, 4th March and Sunday 5th March 2018 PETS.  Young.  President Elects Training Seminar.

Sunday 5th March 2018 D9700 Assembly ALL Club Board Members to attend in Young from 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday 5th May to Sunday 6th May 2018 D9700 CONFERENCE in Leeton venue the Leeton ROXY Theatre.  Book accommodation early!

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

UPDATE FROM THE TOP END

DGE John Glassford reports in from Darwin and Kakadu:

The Governor training is over for the year, next stop San Diego in January 2018 for the International Assembly and more training for DGEs.  It has been a hectic and intense week of Rotary.  Susan and JG are now in Kakadu with our guest DGN Joe Otin from D9212 East Africa.  Joe was one of the key note speakers at the Zone 8 Institute. Met some crocs and cane toads that is all the wildlife so far.

Here are some photos:

Week of 28th. August

I was able to attend the Monday night meeting. I can only attended every second week due to work commitments. I have been having issues with my email address, I have set up a new email address [email protected] for anyone who has any information, news or articles they would like included in up coming bulletins

On The Light Side

The Central West Lifestyle magazine featured Coolamon and June in there Spring edition. There is some very interesting stories in the magazine. Two of our Rotary member Grahame Miles and Howard Atkinson feature in the magazine.

DIARY.

*Monday, 4 September: Partner’s meeting. Guest speaker: Gemma Meier from Grong Grong, who works for the Office of Environment and Heritage, will talk about renewable energies. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7:00 pm.

Saturday 9th September: GANMAIN Trivia Night. Details to follow.

Thursday September 14th 2017, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Dave McKinley, Wayne Lewis, Ivan Furner

Monday September 25th.  DG George and Carol Weston’s visit. Executive and Directors to meet with DG George before the meeting. Please bring your partners and support our District Governor. Gentlemen ties and jackets please.  Ladies smart as always.

Sunday October 1st Gears & Beers ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty

Thursday October 12th 2017, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Alex Thompson, Don Dyce, Dick Jennings

Sunday October 15th D9700 AGM and President’s Forum 2017-2018 Presidents. YOUNG, 10.00am-1.00pm.

Thursday November 9th 2017, BINGO Ian Jennings Capt, Daryl Breust, Garth Perkin, John Nulty

Sunday, 12th November:  DisTec17 in Young 10.00am-4.00pm.  Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training.

Thursday December 14th 2017, BINGO Grahame Miles Capt, Bernadette Milne, Myffy Collette, John Bond

Thursday February 8th 2018, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Rod Jarrett, Dick Jennings, Alex Thompson

Saturday, 4th March and Sunday 5th March 2018 PETS.  Young.  President Elects Training Seminar.

Sunday 5th March 2018 D9700 Assembly ALL Club Board Members to attend in Young from 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday 5th May to Sunday 6th May 2018 D9700 CONFERENCE in Leeton venue the Leeton ROXY Theatre.  Book accommodation early!

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

GREETINGS FROM DARWIN

DGE John Glassford writes from Darwin

What is the Four-Way Test to you and your club? The Four-Way Test is one of the most powerful guides to ethical behavior in existence. As Rotarians, we have a responsibility to speak the truth, to do our best in all situations, to be fair, build friendships and goodwill.

The test is as relevant today as it was 75 years ago, because the issues of morality and ethical behavior that existed then still exist today, therefore we should continuously apply this to our daily lives.

Week of 21st. August

Tonight we held a club assembly.  We had a good turn out of 16 Rotarians and one guest Helen Lewis. Welcome back Dave McKinley!

• Raffle in Coolamon made around $550 and was won by Heavenly Bake!
• We need everyone to look at inviting guest speakers
• Henk read the minutes from the previous board meeting
• Much discussion on the revamp of our caravan and the cost of $5,500 estimation:

• Beers & Gears Roster for October 1st Daryl Breust will prepare this.
• Look to applying for the D9700 Membership Sustainability Grant
• Moo Poo what next?
• Neil Munro reported on the Peace Ceremony 25th Anniversary of the 1st Rotary Peace City in the world, Wagga Wagga, to be held on the 23rd February 2018.
• Neil Munro called for a joint religious meeting between all faiths.
• Wayne Lewis reported on the visit to The Rock for a mental health meeting.
•  Board approved the purchase of a P.A. system.

Sergeant Ted Hutcheon held a fines session and no one was spared.  Leslie Weston won the raffle a meat voucher.

All in all a good meeting and plenty of fellowship and good banter.

DIARY

Monday 28th August: TBA.

*Monday, 4 September: Partner’s meeting. Guest speaker: Gemma Meier from Grong Grong, who works for the Office of Environment and Heritage, will talk about renewable energies. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7:00 pm.

Saturday 9th September: GANMAIN Trivia Night. Details to follow.

Thursday September 14th 2017, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Dave McKinley, Wayne Lewis, Ivan Furner

Monday September 25th.  DG George and Carol Weston’s visit. Executive and Directors to meet with DG George before the meeting. Please bring your partners and support our District Governor. Gentlemen ties and jackets please.  Ladies smart as always.

Sunday October 1st Gears & Beers ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty

Thursday October 12th 2017, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Alex Thompson, Don Dyce, Dick Jennings

Sunday October 15th D9700 AGM and President’s Forum 2017-2018 Presidents. YOUNG, 10.00am-1.00pm.

Thursday November 9th 2017, BINGO Ian Jennings Capt, Daryl Breust, Garth Perkin, John Nulty

Sunday, 12th November:  DisTec17 in Young 10.00am-4.00pm.  Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training.

LOG IN AND BOOK HERE

Thursday December 14th 2017, BINGO Grahame Miles Capt, Bernadette Milne, Myffy Collette, John Bond

Thursday February 8th 2018, BINGO Henk Hulsman Capt, Rod Jarrett, Dick Jennings, Alex Thompson

Saturday, 4th March and Sunday 5th March 2018 PETS.  Young.  President Elects Training Seminar.

Sunday 5th March 2018 D9700 Assembly ALL Club Board Members to attend in Young from 09:00-16:00

Thursday March 8th 2018, BINGO Neil Munro Capt, Dave McKinley, Don Dyce, Leslie Weston

Saturday 5th May to Sunday 6th May 2018 D9700 CONFERENCE in Leeton venue the Leeton ROXY Theatre.  Book accommodation early!

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

ROTARY MEANS BUSINESS

If you are in Sydney on the last Tuesday of each month go along. I love this idea very much as Rotary does mean business.  Next Rotary Means Business networking event – 29th August

STOP PRESS

GANMAIN 20th August 2019.

Leslie Weston says “Frank showed really nicely for me and is gaining confidence on the grass. He was pulled out in group by Mr. G. Vernon on Friday and awarded best jr. in hound group on Saturday by Prof. Corbitt.”

President Paul Weston “We still need some work walking but Bradley showed very nicely and stood still while taking his first ribbon.”

Not to be outdone Maureen Hulsman also starred with the pomeranian puppy who took best baby in show one day too I think!”

Congratulations to Leslie, Paul and Maureen.

FOOTNOTE

Hoopsnakes are dangerous snakes native to Australia. Commonly found in bushland and the outback, Hoopsnakes are NOT lethal, but are still dangerous when confronted. Although usually quite timid animals, Hoopsnakes have been known to chase down and attack animals and humans during their breeding period. If bitten by the Hoopsnake, headaches, vomiting, and temporary blindness and paralysis may occur.

What makes the Hoopsnake different from other snakes in the world is their ability to to roll, in a way much like a wheel or hula-hoop (hence the name, Hoopsnake). They bite onto their tail, which is very thick and callused, and use their strengthened spines to roll into a circular shape and roll around. Using this method, the Hoopsnake can reach up to 60km/h.

Although lots is known about the Hoopsnakes, they are not not very well known as they should be. They were never featured on any of Steve Irwin’s television programs or his movies, which is quite disappointing. The Hoopsnake is a beautiful creature which deserves to be known throughout the world.

There is no definite breeding season with Hoopsnakes, as they breed year round. A female Hoopsnake will find a new mate every year. Couples only breed once a year, with the female laying around 10 to 15 eggs in a batch. On average, only 8 survive, due to the Hoopsnake being the main food source of eagles and hawks.

Hoopsnakes feed on small marsupials such as biblies, mice, rats and quolls. Baby hoopsnakes often eat crickets and other small insects. Hoopsnakes live around 8 years, and in their life time have been known to grow up to 1.5 metres long. They range from a light, olive green to a darker black in colour, depending on the age. This is why it is extremely difficult to identify the Hoopsnake, because the colours are so different.

SEE YOU NEXT WEEK

The stand in temporary bulletin editor is off to Darwin for the GETS and Zone 8 Institute our Bulletin Editor Julie will be back as soon as her computer is up to speed.  Any correspondence please contact me in Darwin!

Week of 14 August

Tonight we had the pleasure of the company of 3 members from the Wollundry Rotary Club.  Ably led by PP Phil McIntosh and supported by PP David Byfield and current Wollundry President Paul Milde.

Attendance present 16 Rotarians and 5 guests including Barry Lillywhite, Trevor Kiss and the three visiting Rotarains from Wollundry.

We had another good meeting with plenty of banter and some serious Rotary work. Our guest speaker PP Phil McIntosh from Wollundry and the prime mover for this amazing project gave a detailed account of the 2016 Gears & Beers run.

Phil went on to congratulate our club and community for the assistance in last year’s event and invited us to support the run on Sunday October 1st. Phil reminded us that daylight saving actually starts on the day of the event. We are responsible for the Dirty 130 and the 105km ride.

RAPHA are again the major sponsors with some wonderful clothing. RAPHA are an international cycle company and are seen in Tokyo, Rome, Paris, Sydney and Melbourne. Photos of last years Gears & Beers have gone around the world.

The help on the day. for 2017 is very popular with the Dirty 130 being sold out. As always Wollundry will share the proceeds with those who help on the day.

Phil said that around 850 riders will come to Coolamon on the day. So we need to have as many volunteers to make this a successful event.

Last year the event attracted over 1100 riders and 4000 people into the festival this year our target is 1500 plus riders and 4500 people to the festival. We are keen to embrace the Culture of the craft of Brewing Beers and Ciders as well as coffee, this combined with a community cycling event, a long weekend Sunday, a location right at the top of Wagga Wagga’s main street and a club that is prepared to give of its time to raise funds for great causes, I think we are onto a winner of an event.

Rides range from 9km (for the kids and mums and dads), 30km, 50km road, 50km filthy fifty (dirt roads), 105km road, and the Rapha Dirty 130.

Followed by the craft Beer and Cider festival with some of the country’s best independent craft brewers.

Gears & Beers Web Site

RI President Elect 2018-2019

Barry Rassin, of the Rotary Club of East Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas, has been selected to be 2018-19 Rotary president. Rassin’s nomination follows Sam F. Owori’s death in July, just two weeks into his term as Rotary International president-elect.

RIPE Barry Rassin

RIPE Barry Rassin is our leader for 2018-2019 from the Bahamas where the sun shines on a beautiful part of our world. I look forward to working with RIPE Barry in 2018-2019 as our District Governor.

A Friendly Reminder

John Nulty is looking after the apologies for our Monday meetings; could you please make sure you let John know if you are unable to attend a meeting so catering can be finalised before the meeting. John can be contacted on  or 0439 459 296.

Diary

Wednesday, 16 August:  Board Meeting. Weston residence, 7:30 pm.

Saturday, 19 August: Street raffle. Coolamon Newsagency, 6.30 am – noon.

ROSTER:

7.00-8.00 Howard Atkinson Barry Lillywhite

8.00-9.00 John Glassford Ted Hutcheon

9.00-10.00 Wayne Lewis Steve Exton

10.00-11.00 Sally Farmer Don Dyce Henk Hulsman

11.00-12.00 John Bond Daryl Breust

Monday, 21 August:  Club Assembly. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7:00 pm.

*Monday, 4 September: Partner’s meeting. Guest speaker: Gemma Meier from Grong Grong, who works for the Office of Environment and Heritage, will talk about renewable energies. Coolamon Sport & Rec Club, 6:30 for 7:00 pm.

Saturday 9th September: GANMAIN Trivia Night. Details to follow.

Monday September 25th.  DG George and Carol Weston’s visit. Executive and Directors to meet with DG George before the meeting. Please bring your partners and support our District Governor. Gentlemen ties and jackets please.  Ladies smart as always.

Sunday October 1st Gears & Beers ALL Hands on Deck for Marshall duty

Sunday October 15th D9700 AGM and President’s Forum 2017-2018 Presidents. YOUNG, 10.00am-1.00pm.

Sunday, 12th November:  DisTec17 in Young 10.00am-4.00pm.  Internet and computer skills for bulletin editors and club web masters training.

LOG IN AND BOOK HERE

Saturday, 4th March and Sunday 5th March 2018 PETS.  Young.  President Elects Training Seminar.

Sunday 5th March 2018 D9700 Assembly ALL Club Board Members to attend in Young from 09:00-16:00

Saturday 5th May to Sunday 6th May 2018 D9700 CONFERENCE in Leeton venue the Leeton ROXY Theatre.  Book accommodation early!

*Partners and Guests Night

Apologies for Monday meetings: call John Nulty on 0439 459 296 BY FRIDAY

FOOTNOTE

SEE YOU NEXT WEEK