Rod McDougall
President 2006-7
Rotary Club of Strathfield
The President's View
Wednesday 23 August 2006
A friendly suggestion for President Elect Brian Johnson: Commissioner Ken Moroney was very pleased to attend our fourth Police Officer of the Year Awards - however, in order to secure his attendance next year, the event will need to be held prior to end August 2007, the date he is scheduled to relinquish control of the top job in the force.
The high standards set in previous years for this important Strathfield Rotary function were maintained this year – with police officers of the Burwood and Flemington commands very genuinely appreciating the community recognition of their achievements.
Special congratulations to Kevin Beltrame on his maiden voyage as organiser - and to Brian Johnson and Grahame True for their indispensable contribution on the night and the hand-over to Kevin. A small army of helpers assisted, including some non-Rotarians; thanks to Karen Catalano, Cheryl Ayres and Lesley Smallwood. Rotarians toiling away in the background included, Treasurer Keith, Connie, Joe C, Shirley, Kevin F, Bert, Anuradha and Garry Pearce.
The state government's "State Plan" initiative aimed at formulating a strategic plan for NSW is underway and I have been invited to participate in providing community input. It is an interesting exercise although some involved are a little suspicious that it is being carried now, with an election is around the corner.
Thanks to the generosity of Peter Harries the club now has access to a data projector. Peter has made a unit available to the club on permanent loan. This will help in organising guest speaker and other presentations. Many thanks, Peter.
This week Jan and Bob Templeman will entertain us with South to Antarctica! We seem to have an increasing number of travelling Rotarians in the club and hope to include more evenings of this type.
And in closing, my usual request for someone to take on the role of bulletin editor. Angelo is just two issues (counting this one) from retirement. Please see Brian Johnson or me if you would like to take on the role – even if only for a limited time.
Enjoy Rotary … by getting involved!
President Rod