Our guest speaker this week, Shay Collins of Beck Legal, gave us a most interesting and thought-provoking presentation on the necessity for all of us to consider and take timely action about planning for what is to happen to our estates and assets upon our death.
Not an easy subject to be broached with our loved ones, but essential to be worked through prior to death so that they are not burdened with avoidable, often painful and costly procedures at a sad and stressful time. Our thanks to Shay for her lively, professional presentation, which we are sure has been a bit of a wake-up call for at least some of us.
Last Sunday afternoon, on 29th September, several presidents of clubs in our Central Victoria Community Group met via ZOOM to discuss the way forward for us as a group under the new Rotary structure in our district. The whole purpose of this restructure is a desire to grow Rotary. Briefly, this is intended to be through increasing membership numbers, and retaining existing members in welcoming, purposeful clubs.
Areas of common interest so far have focused on developing strategies to grow club members; effectively publicising what we do and what we stand for in our local communities, and working together where possible and desirable. For example, one of the possibilities mentioned is for our clubs to put together a list of alumni from the RYLA, RYPEN, NYSF and other youth programs such as the Sailing Challenge. A few functions per year could be organised to bring these alumni together for networking and greater engagement with their local Rotary clubs. This aligns well with La Trobe University’s Aspire program where students engage in community work to obtain a more favourable ATAR score.
On Saturday, several members participated in a Strategic Planning meeting organised by our Future’s Committee at the Mechanics Hall in California Gully and facilitated by Warwick Cavell. It has been many years since the last planning session, and it is important that our members have ownership over where we stand for and how we maintain presence in the communities we serve. More information will be made available for discussion and endorsement.
We were very sad to learn this week about the passing of PP Rob and Carol Guley’s son, Stephen, after a long battle with illness. Our thoughts and condolences are with them, their extended family, and Stephen’s family at this very sad time.
Co-presidents Ray Carrington and Adrian Schoo
Guest speaker - Shay Collins of Beck Legal
Succession Planning, Wills and Estates, and Powers of Attorney
Shay described for us the purpose of making a will and particularly the undeniable fact that this process is essential if you wish to have your estate distributed as you want after your demise. She even made the somewhat surprising suggestion that in today’s world, anyone over the age of 18 should have one because of the assets they accumulate, whether salary, motor vehicle, or home.
Wills are concerned with distribution of assets, which will require an Executor. Someone capable, trusted and honest. More than one means that they must get on, or disputes are inevitable. As the Will maker, you can make specific gifts or set up the means to protect vulnerable beneficiaries if required.
Shay was very clear that Superannuation is not part of your estate and must have the distribution set out in your Super policy, also that divorce and/or remarriage will cancel an existing Will. Most especially, dying intestate (without a will) means that the Rules of Intestacy take over, which she described with a shudder as an expensive administration nightmare, bringing up the spectre of legal battles and Government intervention.
Powers of Attorney documents were described as extremely important. These are stating your wishes should you become incapable of speaking for yourself.
Enduring POA gives your choice of attorney the right to make financial and personal decisions on your behalf, including property matters, paying bills, and deciding where you should live. Again, someone who has your trust and who will carry out your intentions.
A Medical Treatment Decision Maker (formerly called Medical POA) has the power to make medical decisions on your behalf. In conjunction with an Advanced Care Directive jointly made by the patient and doctor, this can set out your wishes concerning resuscitation, CPR, the use of machines to prolong life etc.
Shay’s address was timely, interesting, and very informative. We thank her sincerely for her time with us.
- Chris
Inner Wheel Afternoon tea
Rotarians and friends,
Please see the below invitation from Deb Reade. Feel free to pass it on to any women who may be interested in attending the afternoon tea.
Deb - 0408 996 619
Maubisse movie night
Dear Rotarians
Please see the flyer (below) for the next Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee movie night coming up in October at the Star Cinema.
Proceeds raised support our ongoing Days for Girls Program in Maubisse. It is always a good relaxing night out at the Star in Eaglehawk and the reviews for this movie are very supportive.
Regards,
Tony Plant
Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee member and Rotary Club of Bendigo South Member
RCoBS Rotary Ramble
Please RSVP to John Cannon by Saturday October 12 - jcannon50@gmail.com
