Greetings  Rotarians and friends of Bendigo Sandhurst,

It was a cold start to Wednesday and maybe a few members decided to keep themselves snug under the blankets. Numbers were down a little but we still enjoyed a great morning.

And the hightlight.

Well for me it was an honour to officially induct Sathie Naidoo into our club. I hope we can scrouge up one or two more new members  before my curtain is drawn. Welcome Sathie and Kay and the kids. Please make them very welcome.

With the assistance of MC Robbie, we held a Club forum providing  all members the opportunity to ask questions or raise issues for discussion. The half hour seemed to pass too quickly. Perhaps we should have them more often. Firstly Treasurer Peter gave everybody of quick oversight of our financial position which is still strong despite fundraising being a non-event for the year so far. Fundraising Director Kevin provided some light in the tunnel in noting that “White Night” is planned for Bendigo in October and we did very well out of the event held last time. The Secondary schools Music seminar in September will be another occasion where our catering capabilities will likely be required as well. However, this Sunday, ANZAC day we can get in some practice with breakfast for all those who turn out for the ANZAC day dawn service. Don’t forget to tell Kev if you are coming  because he needs to register you in advance due to Covid protocols.

Barb encouraged everyone to invite along a collegue to see what Rotary is all about, and Allie spoke about the importance of donating to the Rotary Foundation, because we will likely see those funds revolve back in three years time. The Club has decided to maintain our annual donation at the same level as previous despite the fundraising chasm. Cathie as Youth Director gave a comprehensive report of the many areas of support the club has traditionally supported and continues to do so. With even more schools and activities planned in the near future she suggested strengthening the Youth Services sub committee with more recruits. Tell Rob if you want to be involved.

At the request from management of the Tennis Centre who have a big event planned for next week we have arranged to have breakfast at Peppergreen farm for the next two weeks. We might change some of our future meetings with alternative arrangements like, Zoom if numbers drop with people away so they can join in, maybe an evening meeting with dinner with spouses invited, perhaps joint meetings with some of our fellow Rotary clubs as a fellowship exercise. Don’t worry you will all get plenty of notice and for the most part meetings will be at the Tennis Centre for most of the year.

Have another great week     

 cheers Ted.