Hi everyone,
Welcome back to a few of our travellers – great to see you. Also welcome again to Mark Polsen who was our guest speaker.
The Blue Ribbon Appeal is on again and everyone at the meeting received a blue ribbon to wear. On behalf of the members, the Club has donated $100.00 towards this appeal.
Martin gave a report on the trip to East Timor:
Martin understands the comments previous travellers have made about the road to Maubisse. For the first time visitor, this was an experience all on its own!
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Martin got 22 computers up and running with some phone help from back in Australia. There are still a couple of computers that need more expert help.
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Kevin (the volunteer electrician) upgraded the electricity supply to the convent and community kitchen.
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The official opening of the community kitchen took place
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The water supply to the clinic was upgraded and a water tank and pump was installed
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One of the highlights was an impromptu invitation into a local family’s home. Martin also noticed that there were many old uniforms from various Bendigo schools being worn.
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Another highlight was Phil’s singing!!
Thanks Martin for the update.
Stan advised everyone that the Swap Meet is coming up and we need people for the rosters. Site Team Leaders are also needed – speak to Martin about what this involves. Martin is also organising the rosters, so let him know of your availability
Adrian advised us of a fundraiser by the Advanced Class at Weeroona College for their Fiji project. They are holding a Trivia night at the College on 23rd October. See Adrian about getting a table together.
Mark Polsen was welcomed as our guest speaker to update us on the activities at Our Shed.
Our Shed has been in existence for 51/2 years. It commenced under the auspices of the Anglican Church as a response to the bushfires at that time.
Initially it was going to be run along the Men’s Shed model but it was decided to make it available for everyone. The response was quite overwhelming in the early stage with a lot of the response coming from people with disabilities.
Mark said he has now developed an understanding of the difficulties of access and opportunity for people with a disability
The Anglican Church has withdrawn from supporting the Shed and in March of this year it formally came under the banner of Access Employment.
There are now opportunities for employment pathways for people attending Our Shed.
Thanks Mark, what is being achieved by the participants and volunteers is inspiring.
Have a great week and Paul will be back next Wednesday. Cathie
