President Electric's Lines

A small band of Strathfield Rotarians that attended the District Conference last weekend were enriched by a very full programme. The key note speakers were Deepa Willingham (PACE), Brian McGuigan (wine / history of the Hunter District), Professor Anthony Jorm (first aid for mental health), Kerry Pottharst (Olympian), James Morrison (musician) and Susan Templeman (Journalist). These speakers were punctuated throughout the weekend by District Directors talking on their portfolios.

Deepa Willingham from PACE (Promise of Assurance to Children Everywhere) spoke on the organisations mission to nurture the education, nutrition and social development of young girls in the slums of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta India).

Kerry Pottharst and James Morrison were both excellent motivational speakers. Kerry stated we must set ourselves goals, look at them daily and pursue even if fearful. We must meet our challenges which our own Burt demonstrated ,though petrified, he managed to walk bare footed across a bed of broken glass – amazing. The photo is of Stella Camenzuli of Holroyd walking on the broken glass

James pushed his message i.e. we are all what we want to be, perhaps not experts, but with perseverance we can make it. He used humour, anecdotes of his life and great music to put his points across. Both these speakers left us leaving the auditorium on a high.

Susan Templeman (daughter of past Strathfield Rotarian Bob) had an interesting topic – a younger persons views of Rotary and what may encourage them to join. Susan said not only to use the print media to advertise “Rotary” but we must also consider increased use of electronic media eg websites, u-tube etc. I would like to thank P.D.G. David for his continued efforts in submitting articles of our club to the local paper – Susan said monthly articles are an essential – David, that is a challenge.

The conference was not only a learning experience but lots of fun

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Saturday night in Hollywood saw our group dress for the occasion to walk the red carpet, many laughs and lots of dancing. Thankyou to Ted and Peter Smith for organising all facets of the conference for us. By clicking the photograph of PP Ted Ingall above there is a short slideshow

Don’t forget to fill out the commitment sheets tonight.

·         Sergeants Dinner – 18th march

·         Car Rally 22nd March

·         Elizabeth Farm – 8th April

·         O-TEN – 15th April

These will all be great functions so please do your best to attend.

And remember: Fun and fellowship in Rotary