Rotary Club of Canberra Burley Griffin News Notes 15th June 2026
Notes from the Captain's Desk.
And a really good night was had by all!
The music was moving, the food was delicious, the speakers entertained and informed, and the companionship was contagious. Congratulations to all the organisers of our changeover dinner: Treasurer Ross, Bill, Stephen the pro MC, and Secretary John.
It was a bit experimental to try a social enterprise as the venue, instead of “the usual” but I think all will agree the venue, caterers and waitstaff excelled. What will we do next year to top that?
DG representative Leo gave us a challenge “flourish or fold”. I am not good at folding so we better concentrate on “flourishing” in the years ahead.
President Neil.
Last Week
Our annual Changeover dinner was held at the Stepping Stones restaurant in Dickson. We have previously supported Stepping Stones as a valuable enterprise in our community which helps new settlers particularly refugees who are seeking to settle in Canberra, gain confidence and skills by training them in hospitality and work at 2 restaurants in Canberra.
The meal was delicious : imagine Afghani vegetable soup, dumplings with sautéed vegetables, herb flavoured rice, sautéed spinach , braised spiced cauliflower onion and tomato sauce, and finally scented set custard topped with nuts. I'm going to back!
Stephen did a sterling job as MC keeping the programme moving to accomodate courses in the meals, speeches and formalities.
Past DG Leo Farrelly responded to the toast to RI by challenging us to "Flourish or Fold ".....Yes we understand the message.
Past President Warwick reported on the significant successes in the past 12 months and the money raised for projects, whilst highlighting some of the opportunities we could pursue in the next year.
President Neil then gave a rousing speech to get us all inspired. He has innovative ideas for membership, and aspirations for new projects.
A wonderful night for all.
Ed.
A Paul Harris Fellowship was awarded to President Warrick for being such a steadfast hard worker in the Club. Here's the line up of some of our PHF's.
Liz awarding P. Warrick his PHF with Sapphire.
Our newly inducted President Neil presenting his plans for the coming year. Membership growth is on top of the list!
Liz and Margita enjoying the night's fun.
Michael chatting with our guest speaker and club supporter Chris Latham from the Australian War Memorial.
Bill proposing the toast to Rotary International.
Coming up:
Date: Thurs.
Event:
Club member to Introduce, Thank and send write up to Bulletin editor.
18th June
Past President Warrick :
introduces Dr Mark Lax
History of Tea
Warrick and Graham
25th June
Plastic : no longer Fantastic
Simon Copeland
Michael
2nd July
John as Chair -vacant speaker
9th July
John is Chair – vacant speaker
8th August
Peace Bell
Remembrance Day for Hiroshima and Nagasaki
21st September
Peace Bell
UN International Day of Peace
24th October
Peace Bell and Canberra Nara peace Park
Candle Festival
10th December
UN Human Rights Day with Zonta Canberra remembering victims of domestic violence.
Rotary In-joke of the Week
I told my AI computer in my car I need a break-
now it won't stop sending me KitKats.
Thought for the Week
Grab a chance and
you won't be sorry for a might-have-been.
Arthur Ransome 1884.
Years gone by....
Keith and Juris photographed in Kupang, West Timor during one of our Club's monitoring visits of development projects in villages around Kupang and Flores, Indonesia. Keith's efforts resulted in our Club raising over $100,000 through the NTA to enable the construction of water tanks, toilet blocks, library resources in schools and a range of economic enterprises such as micro loans for cattle, chickens, batik education and seaweed production. All successfully completed for the benefit of some of the poorest people in our region. Ed.
