Presidential Ponderings
P1 had to keep the DG in check as he started the meeting (I smell a fine here) and began the meeting with a profound quote "One profits most who serves best". P1 also reminded us that on this day in:
- 1898 - The Perth Zoo opened
- 1917 - The first railway across Australia was established
- 1931 - his mate Al Capone was incarcerated
Guest Speaker - Pascal Veyradier, President of HikeWest
Peggy Leung introduced guest speaker Pascal Veyradier who is president of HikeWest. Pascal works in local government and was elected in 2024. HikeWest is the peak body for hiking and trail running in WA. Its mission is to enable and encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy the natural environment.
The organization frames hiking not as the end goal itself, but as the 'how' (the method) to achieve a greater 'why'—improving well-being, building confidence, addressing social isolation, and empowering people.
HikeWest's mission is to enable and encourage people to enjoy the outdoor environment.
Modern lifestyles contribute to inactivity and social isolation, which hiking can help address.
Hiking is presented as the "how" to achieve a "why" of helping people, improving well-being, and building confidence.
Statistics now show more women are hiking the Bibbulmun track solo than men in WA, a reversal of previous trends due to targeted programs.
The perception of danger in the bush is often false compared to urban dangers or health risks from inactivity.
The post-COVID hiking trend has led to government investment in infrastructure and growth in small, local tourism businesses.
The concept of "bringing trails to people" focuses on developing accessible local paths and networks.
The benefits of walking include personal development, improved mental health, and connecting with nature.
HikeWest runs targeted programs for seniors, women, youth, and culturally diverse groups to make hiking accessible
Modern society encourages a sedentary lifestyle, leading to health issues like cardiovascular disease and growing social isolation, a problem exacerbated since COVID.
Hiking is a cheap, accessible, and effective activity to counteract these negative trends.
The 'why' behind HikeWest's work is similar to service organizations like Rotary: supporting community projects and helping people.
HikeWest partners with local government and other organizations to subsidize workshops and hikes, empowering people to become more active and adventurous.
Globally recognized trails like the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail are maintained by specially skilled volunteers who manage specific sections.
Other trails are the responsibility of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), which often has insufficient funding.
Local community groups, such as the Jarrahdale Heritage Society, step in to assist with maintenance. This demonstrates reliance on local community groups when government funding is insufficient. HikeWest are eager to work with groups such as Rotary to consider hiking as a business option when planning activities.
Watch this space!
Directors' Reports and Member Announcements
Veronica L : Next Friday (24th) please wear your End Polio T-shirts and after the meeting we will catch the Ferry over to Elizabeth Quay for coffee. At 6pm make your way over to Yagan Square for a mass photo, free pizza, cash bar and fellowship.
Ross S : 10 Volunteer cooks wanted for "Home for Dinner" at Ronald McDonald House 16 November. Contact Ross for more details lrcsmanor@westnet.com.au.
Lew T : OffTraq donations wanted to support the 4 cars from Mill Point RC. Contact Lew for more details lewis@tmaadvisory.com.au.
Gorby : Successful vocational visit to Mundaring last week - thank you to all who attended. Next vocational visit is 28 November to "Bicycles for Humanity" in Midvale, and lunch at the Rose & Crown in Guildford. Contact Gorby for details mjgwaconsulting@gmail.com
Gerry : International dinner details changed to 8 November at the John McGrath Pavillion. Contact Gerry for more details gerrycan2727@gmail.com
Brian J (in absentia) : Chinese Peace Pole
A finesse of fines...
- The late Alison Thair and double that for making excuses!
- Lorrie for failed attempt at re-arranging her car windows
- Gerry - you missed out 1972 and the great Chuck Berry's launch of "My Dingaling" as well as the 1814 great beer flood of London.
- All Superfunders - thanks to "Jim"
- Ken P - just because of his haircut...
- David T for being 'in the pink' and being here.
- Geoff L - is that really a elbisreveR jacket?
- DG Veronica L - having to be chastised by P1...
Couldn't resist posting this photo of our Four Fabulous Finesmeisters!
Winner of Heads and Tails
Thanks to Lyn and Margaret Metcalf for supplying the wine each week.
Attendance
31 attendees in all, including guest speaker Pascal Veyradier.
