Bulletin #16 - 17 October 2025

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!

L to R: Joy Burnett, Wayne Muller, Owen Ferguson, Jenny McLean (for new members' info).

Winner of Heads and Tails

Two weeks in a row and Howard Nelson won it again much to the angst of Gorby who tells us every week that he has NEVER got past first base...

Thanks to Lyn and Margaret Metcalf for supplying the wine each week.

Attendance

31 attendees in all, including guest speaker Pascal Veyradier.

 

Bulletin #15 10 October 2025

Presidential Ponderings

P1 (Gerry McGann) opened the meeting to thunderous applause and reminded us that on this day:

• The song 'From Russian With Love' was released in 1963, and 
• Dame Joan Sutherland passed away in 2010

It's also Rotary Mental Health Day and (almost) everyone contributed to "Hat Day" by wearing their favourite head-piece thereby missing out on being fined for not remembering! Members and guests were asked to donate $5 each to go to the "Lift The Lid (on mental health)" campaign.

Guest Speaker : DG Veronica Lawrance - "Re-Image, Re-Engage, Re-Build Rotary"

Veronica's presentation outlined her  District Governor's vision for Rotary WA over the next two years, focusing on revitalizing the organization through enhanced public image, increased membership, and reduced costs. 

Key strategies included adapting to change, re-engaging with communities, and empowering the next generation of leaders, emphasizing the need to re-image, re-engage, and re-build Rotary for the future.

Veronica addressed the challenges of declining membership and the need for a locally-driven approach, emphasizing collaboration between District leaders, Club leaders, and Rotary Community Leaders. 

As District Governor, she encouraged clubs to focus on the Rotary Action Plan, re-imagine the Rotary experience and showcase projects to the public to build awareness and attract new members.

Important dates for upcoming events are also highlighted, including the Ride the Train to End Polio,  24 October: the Rotary WA District Conference in 13-15 March 2026, the 100 years of Rotary in WA celebration in 2027, and the new District Incentive for Clubs to initiate an event, campaign or project to increase their visibility in the community and/or to increase membership. 

The full powerpoint presentation will be sent to all members and will be available on the shared drive. 

Directors' Reports and Member Announcements

•  P1 : informed everyone that an International Dinner is to be held on 8 November (new date) at Veronica's apartment complex and everyone will be asked to BYO everything - especially food with an international flavour.
• On behalf of PDG Pat Schraven, Veronica present a Club Excellence Award to David Rowell (on behalf of Kelly Gillen), and their Rotary Action Day banner to President Les Ozsdolay (a left over from the Rotary Action Day in 2023)
• Gorby - reminded everyone that the next vocational visit to Mundaring Pump Station #1
• P2 - "OffTraq" coming at the end of October, a four-day extravaganza out in the bush. We have four cars entered and looking for support. Raelene Lorrie, David R/Wayne and John Mansfield. See Lew's flyer about how to make donations
• Raelene - will be in car #31 and also the Medic
• Lyn M - Last member's forum asked for update on Fines and Copper Kettle and this will be done quarterly.  To date Fines = $1,000 (on track to usually approx $4,000 pa) and Copper Kettle tod ate $7000 (usually about $3,000 pa)

Fines - Wayne the Elder

• Guest speaker Geoff L for birthday and Veronica for extra talk
• Anyone not wearing a hat for World Mental Health day, or one that doesn't quite fit!
• Anyone who didn't wear a hat when younger and now having 'things cut off'

Winner of Heads and Tails

Howard Nelson was the lucky winner today of top grog!

Best hat was won by Vic Stoyanoff! 

Attendance

 40 attendees in all, including guest speaker DG Veronica Lawrance, and visiting Rotarians from Como RC, President Les Ozsdolay, Kim Larsen, Sharon Sutton, Tim & Heike Davey, Dennis Menzies,  and Ian Spencer.

Bulletin #14 - 3 October 2025

Presidential Pride

P1 stated as we all live up to the 4 Way Test (or at least he hoped so) there was no need to repeat it! He did however tell us it was International Boyfriend Day and several hands went up for a request for one! We were reminded that on this day in 1990 the two Germanies were united, and the British, in an operation code named Hurricane, detonated an atomic weapon in a bay of one of the islands off Montebelo. 

Guest Speaker : Laura Turner, Local Guardians

Laura is an experienced leader and business professional in the aged care industry, she’s skilled in managing large teams and providing care for clients with high care needs. With a deep understanding of Home Care Package funding, she helps clients navigate the aged care system and maximise the value of their package—ensuring they remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible.

 

Her strengths lie in customer service, problem-solving, and providing culturally sensitive care. She is passionate about building genuine, lasting relationships with clients and their families, making their aged care journey as positive and empowering as possible.

 

Outside of work, Laura enjoys travelling, outdoor activities by the water, and spending time with her dog.

 

Local Guardians is an organisation that maintains oversight of Self-Managed Home Care Packages. This is a Government-sponsored program that provides a range of services and support for older Australians who wish to continue living at home. Laura observed, as the program is for 65 and older, “looking around the room I would say that is none of you…..”

 

From November 2025, Home Care Packages will be replaced by the new Support at Home program.

A Home Care Package is a pool of government funding available to older Australians to help them live independently at home for longer. Funding is tailored to their care needs.

What Can Be Funded?

Depending on their needs, they could receive between $10,000–$80,000 per year. This can go towards:

• Care workers (cleaning, personal care, transport, meal prep and delivery etc.)
• Allied health (physio, OT, nursing, podiatry)
• Equipment, aids, and home modifications
• Home maintenance (cleaning, gardening etc)

What Will It Cost?

From November 2025, their income and assets will determine the cost of services.

The new system includes three funding categories:

Clinical Services – Free for everyone

No matter their financial situation, they won’t pay out-of-pocket for:

• Nursing
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy
• Podiatry

(This is a major improvement – previously some people paid daily fees even without receiving services.)

 

Independence Support – 50% to 95% government-funded

Services such as:

• Personal care
• Mobility and safety aids
• Transport
• Minor home modifications
• Everyday Supports – 20% to 82.5% government-funded
• Services like:
• Cleaning
• Laundry
• Shopping
• Meal preparation or delivery

How to Get Started

Call MyAgedCare on 1800 200 422 to request a phone assessment (usually 1–2 hours).

Once assessed, they may be placed on a national waitlist, which can take several months.

Tip: Be ready to talk about 3 or more care needs during the assessment.

If they only need 1 or 2 services, they may be eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Program, which funds individual services with a small co-contribution.

Once assigned a package, they must choose a provider – the government does not give funds directly to individuals.

 

When choosing a provider:

• Check staff availability for their needs
• Look for prompt responsiveness from the provider
• Compare fees and hourly rates

 

About Local Guardians – Our Self-Managed Option

Local Guardians offers a self-managed model that gives:

• Freedom to choose their carers
• No strangers or rotating workers
• More hours of care for their budget
• Flexible schedules
• Local Guardians are 100% online and do not hire their own workers. The client (or a family member) will need:
• A device with email
• Ability to join video calls with their coordinator

Clients can engage someone or a company of their choice, such as a cleaner or support worker with an ABN and insurance. This might be someone they’ve spoken with, are happy with, or already know and trust. Local Guardians help the client set them up and pay them directly using their government funds. Need help finding someone? Local Guardians also have a register clients can access of companies that have previously signed up to support other clients.

 

Fees

All providers will charge a 10% care management fee from November – this comes from their package, not out of their pocket.

With self-management, clients get more value because:

• they choose the service providers (e.g. a $50/hr cleaner is paid the full $50)
• Local Guardians charge 10% per invoice to process payments – not on the whole package
• Clients avoid inflated provider staff rates (some charge $80–$110/hr)

This leaves more funding for them to use on actual care.

 

In Summary

If older Australians have care needs – they should apply now.

Joining the wait-list is free, and puts them in line to access free clinical services and heavily discounted support when they need it.

As a Care Adviser, Laura is available to chat about options and next steps. She can discuss specific care needs, go through the list of available inclusions to identify three or more needs for their MyAgedCare assessment, use an online planner to estimate their discounts, and explore self-managed care options.

 Directors' Reports and Member Announcements

• Jenny & Lorrie : gave an update on the success of the Sewing Sister's Tanzania project - going great guns! The DG there has authorised hygiene packs for 8 schools in the area by 23 October!
• Alison : Reminder OffTraq is on 30 October to 2 November and good opportunity to sponsor cars who are fundraising for Global Hands Sri Lankan Eye Project. See Events for more details.
• Joy : Needs a volunteer to help her at SOS on Wednesday 8 October from 9am. Please contact Joy on 0437 936 732
• Brian J : Club service meeting after breakfast; 10 October is HAT Day for mental health and donations of $5 per person expected (can pay by square) and also the DG visit with several Rotarians attending from Como RC.
• Gorby : Mundaring Weir vocational visit next week, please email Gorby direct on mjgwaconsulting@gmail.com; Como RC Classic Cars event last Sunday was attended well even though the rain spoiled play.
• Rick : Will be away from next week for 4 weeks, so next Friday is last day to organise and pick up meals for PICYS.
• Kelly : Reminder about Ride The Train to End Polio Friday 24 October. Ride the Train, Wear your T-shirt all day (even if you can't ride the train) and gather at Yagan Square 6pm for a mass photo, Pizza and drinks. Please register though for catering purposes whether you are riding the train or not at  https://www.trybooking.com/CYVGP

As Fine(s) a lady as you can get...

• Visitors of the week, recently MIA - Peter D, Di Allen and Eunice.
• 1st Friday of the month is World Smile Day so get those pearly-whites flashing - if you didn't know this $1 please.
• All coffee lovers for International Coffee Day celebrated on Wednesday 1st October.
• All those 'Great' aunts, uncles, grandma's, grandpa's or those who just simply identify as GREAT!
• To fit with the topic of the day - all those retirees who have 'downsized.'
• Kelly and other 'beardies' (or who forgot to shave this morning) practicing for Dial-A-Santa.
• Brian J whose birthday it is and doesn't look a day older...

Winner of Heads and Tails

New member Carole O'Brien won the wine this week - following in hubby's footsteps (Shaun) who won it last week - think they may be stocking their wine cellar! Well done Carole!

Attendance

36 attendees in all, including guest speaker Laura Turner, and visitor Chris Pittman.

Bulletin #13 - 26 September 2025

President Missing In Action!

The bell rang and P2 was MIA! Must be worth a fine or two...he eventually surfaced to formally open the meeting and remind us that on this day in 1969, the Beatles launched their Abbey Road album and China successfully landed the un-crewed Chang'-4 on the Moon's far side in 2019. 

Club Service Director Brian Johnson - Club Forum 2025

Brian chaired the Annual Club Forum 2025.

There were 35 members present, which constituted a quorum for the meeting being at least one third (19 members) of the Club membership (57 members).

Strategic Plan

The Club’s Strategic Plan was circulated to members prior to the Club Forum.  Members approved the Strategic Plan. 

Rotary Club of Mill Point Members’ Satisfaction Survey

The Club Survey was prepared, distributed and analysed by Veronica Lawrance.  There was a 50% return which has provided some good suggestions.  Survey results were circulated to members prior to the Club Forum.

Overall, satisfaction with the Club is 88%.  The focus now is on areas of improvement and suggestions for what the Club can do into the future.  Areas of consideration are within “service and the community” e.g. the number of local projects the Club undertakes; how much does the community value the Club’s involvement in the community etc.

Suggested new projects include youth homelessness and international health. Suggested additional activities include Christmas in July, visits to other Clubs and organisations, Swan Valley tour, sundowners, theatre nights.

Activities least enjoyed include the Art Show, Duck Derby, end-of-year Club Dinners (Changeover), all day Santa visits, Australia Day parking (longer shifts), Handover night, Club Forum. 

How to attract new members includes continuing with the Angelo Street Markets, reaching out to new people, inviting friends to meetings.  Stop/Start/Continue aspects were highlighted along with how the Club can increase leadership development opportunities. 

Changeover Dinner

Members were asked if they prefer a traditional dinner, Friday lunch or Friday dinner.  The general consensus was an evening dinner with a buffet style menu.  Factors to consider are costs associated with evening entertainment, venue (if not at the RPGC) and the cost that members are prepared to pay for the event.  Some members felt that there was an increase in camaraderie and vibrancy by having a lunch function, however this precludes those members who work from attending.  If music is not available at an evening function then some members suggested an option of light-hearted entertainment.  It was suggested that a survey specific to the Changeover be distributed to members.

Directors:

Community (Rick Sneeuwjagt for Gerry McGann)

International dinner night.  The format is yet to be decided but the objective is to encourage newer members to attend.  If members have any ideas please contact Gerry, Gorby, Bassem or Alison.

Container of linen has been filled (12,000-13,000 items of at least $100,000) and is ready to be shipped.

SOS Volunteers -  Joy organises the roster so please contact her.

Fundraising (Angus Florence)

Projects are Dial-a-Santa and appreciation goes to Margaret Walton (more Santas are required); contributing to the OffTraq project; SOS; and a potential to develop What Three Words.

International (Raelene George)

Support has continued for the Sewing Sisters (within Papua New Guinea) and the Global Hand Eye Camp Charity.  Other projects include the water project in Bali and Borderless Friendships. Thanks go to Jenny for the Sewing Sisters and to Reggie, Gerry, Astrid for the various Eye Camps. 

There will be an Eye Camp in March 2026.  Previously Rotary Clubs in the area have provided incredible support, especially in Sri Lanka.

Membership (Ian Kremmer)

There is a target of an increase of 6 members and 2 corporate memberships.  Members are encouraged think about family and friends who would be interested in attending a meeting.  There is also a focus on member retention.  Ian encourages newer members to become involved in the Club Leadership.

Vocational (Michael “Gorby” Gottschalk)

75% approval of the types of vocational visits which have been undertaken by the Club; however, it is only approximately 20% of the Club membership who attends.  The aim is to hold four Vocational visits/year (one every three months).  Please provide suggestions to Gorby for vocational visits.

There is a need to recognise the value of what the Club does in terms of “in kind support” e.g. linen project ($100,000), distribution of bread ($20,000) to communities.

Youth (Garrick McCamey)

Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment (RYPEN) candidate (September) will come and talk to the Club.  The Club will sponsor an exchange student and families are needed to host.  The Club is supporting three students for the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) and is seeking candidates for RYPEN.

Other Business

Michael Gottschalk: When does the Club find out about its incoming Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) student so that planning e.g. education can occur as soon as possible?  District will have information early in 2026.

Mike Collett: Does the Club do Exit interview as it would be beneficial knowing why members are leaving (Lessons Learnt).

Raelene George:  For those on Attendance, there are two options for the Attendance Sheet (listed alphabetically by first names; listed alphabetically by surname).

David Rowell:  Extended his thanks to Veronica Lawrance for the Club Survey and analysis of results.  David encouraged all members to look at survey results.  Gerry and David will look at feedback re community perceptions and value of the Club and will also provide look at providing Board summaries to members.

The full Minutes of the Forum have been circulated, via email, by Secretary Alison Thair.
 

Directors' Reports and Member Announcements
Joy B: Congratulations to the organisers of Guess Who's Coming to Dinner and thank you to all the hosts and diners. A great night as usual.

Kelly G: Ride the Train to End Polio on 24 October or just wear your T-shirt all day! Help create awareness of how Rotary is succeeding in eradicating Polio from the world. Register on line (free) and/or buy your T-shirt ($20) which Veronica will deliver here https://www.trybooking.com/CYVGP.

Gorby: Sign up now for the vocational visit to Mundaring #1 Pump station on 10th October by contacting Gorby direct at mjgwaconsulting@gmail.com or phone 0417 935 504

David R: Como RC Classic Car Show is on this Sunday at Wesley College 9am - 2pm. Volunteers wanted, just show up and they will put you to work.
In Fine(s) Fettle...

• Hottest day since May 10 so all those who got our their shorts, thongs or singlets.
• Everyone still in their winter woollies.
• 3 outages in as many years so if you haven't 'Opted' out already pay a delay tax
• Green-wearers  in view of Trump's warning to move away from the green energy scammers (you of course if you're wearing green)
• All Sarah's, Jeffereys or Fergusons in our presence as per ABC's Sarah Ferguson's  "Excruciating Diplomacy"and the other SF losing millions of dollars for naming Jeffrey Epstein as her "supreme friend"
• RCMP members who did NOT complete the membership survey - we know who you are!
• Or very own Champion Poser Shaun O'Brien - stand up and show us your moves! 

Winner of Heads and Tails : 

A very happy and smiling Brian Johnson grinning from ear to ear. 

Attendance : 36 attendees in all, including presenter extraordinairre Brian Johnson and special visitor Maria Lynn Tenoria all the way from the Phillipines who arrived at 4am this morning!

Maria presented P2 with her Club's banner and presented Veronica with a coffee mug and red pashmina! 

In turn P2 presented Maria with our own Club banner, made her welcome and sat her on the top table where she enjoyed great fellowship sitting next to Peggy Leung.

We wish Maria well on her journey around Australia. 
 

Bulletin #12 - 19 September 2025

For Whom the Bell Tolls...

P2 informed us that today he would focus on the present and future and not the past - so...It's World Peace day; It's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner tomorrow and it's the Spring Equinox on 23 September, when day equals night, so be ready! P2 welcomed ex member (all the way from Canberra), Eric (Carmody) the younger!

Presentation by Wayne Muller & Brian Johnson "What3Words Car Rally Trial"

Wayne and Brian combined to give a presentation on a potential Fundraising car rally using the what3words location App. This was a precursor to a planned trial on Sunday using some keen volunteers and a few vehicles to validate the technical aspects of the concept.

Wayne began by giving some background on our previous events.

1960s – 1990s
Just for fun, team in each car were given cryptic clues with a BBQ at the end. A sealed envelope would contain the final destination for those who got lost….

2011 – 2017

Perth City Ramble.
Six one day events were held, for teams of 2 – 6 people, all dressed up, pay for entry.
40 to 50 locations in the city with 6 questions at each location.

Teams were given a sheet of cryptic clues for locations, to decipher and plan their route.
Mobile phone technology was employed at checkpoints.

The event started with over 4,000 participants and raised $0.5million.

2019 – 2025
BulldustNBack
Participants would register a vehicle (20+ years old) and raise $2,000+ per vehicle.
The Rotary Charity Trust was created for tax deductibility.
Routes were planned and surveyed, some difficult roads.
BnB would run for four days/three overnights with entertainment.  $0.5million raised.
However, the Club came to believe the risk was too high and have handed over to Global Hand.

New Event Proposed
Based upon a free App, what3words, available on Apple, Android and on Tom Tom GPS.
It can be used with a vehicle, bicycle or on foot.
Every 3m x 3m square on earth assigned a unique three words separated by a full stop (e.g. rock.supply.serves).
Until you enter the three-word string into the what3words App, you have no idea where it will take you. It’s a mystery.

Advantages
You can’t get lost, you can always retrace your route, always have a map. Risk is diminished.

Scalable:    

• as many people as you want

• as many vehicles as you want

• from local to district to state to country.

All can be planned from Wayne’s home office……

Brian explained how what3words works.

what3words is a Location App that can then be integrated/input into a Navigation App or GPS. It is very useful in every-day use, and has already been used worldwide in emergencies.

The world is divided into 3 metre squares and each square given a

unique combination of three words. It’s the easiest way to find and share exact locations, especially for Emergency Services who all are able to use it.

It starts by downloading the free what3words App to your mobile phone or tablet. Locations can be found by typing an address into the search bar (similar to Google), scrolling the map, inputting a given combination of three words or selecting Present Position (Arrow symbol common to most Apps). 

Having designated your w3w square, you must then select Navigate. This is an essential step, as w3w will recognise which Navigation Apps you have installed (e.g. Google Maps, Apple Maps, Tom Tom….). You can select Car or Walk mode for appropriate guidance.

Alternately Google Maps will display the destination latitude/longitude, in digital format, to manually input into your car GPS.

Once you get the hang of it, what3words is a very useful App. It has also been integrated into another “must have” App Emergency Plus Australia.

This App displays your present position in all three formats and selectable emergency phone numbers, all on one page.

Directors' Reports and Member Announcements

• Veronica L : World Polio Day 24 October, Buy a t-shirt, wear it all day and/or Ride the Train to End Polio. On sale now $20 (heavily subsidised by a PDG, we cater for all sizes from the svelte to the ample! Please support this very worthy cause.Brian J : Please complete the club survey which was sent out via email, if you are not into completing online, then print of and send/give to Brian/Veronica/Kelly.
• Alison T : The OffTraq event is taking place from Thursday 30 October to Sunday 2 November and is being run by Global Hand Charity, with monies raised going to support the Global Hand Eye Camp next year, Kids Cancer Project and Royal Flying Doctors.Mark Horwood and the team are looking for volunteers from Mill Point to run a number of fun stops for the cars similar to some of the events on the BulldustNBack e.g. a holiday elf who says they are stranded and looking to fund their way back to the North Pole through fines from teams in the event.  These fun stops help to raise additional money for OffTraq and its beneficiaries.  Other ideas include lawn bowls or a gymkhana or even a fun idea of your own.
• The route will start from Mandurah and night one will be in Dryandra (near Narrogin) and nights two and three in Donnybrook.  Lunch stops will be near Boddington (Day 1), Darkan (Day 2) and near Bridgetown (Day 3) which will give a rough idea of where some of these fun stops could be located and there is the option to create a fun stop closer to a bitumen road if your car can’t go offtrack. 
• You could do the fun stop during a fun day out into this area (about 2.5 hours from Perth) or if you want to spend a night there is still shared accommodation available at the Lions Dryandra Village and also some rooms at the Donnybrook Hotel with shared facilities.  Or you might want to organise your own accommodation in Narrogin for night one (we’ll have a bus with a nominal cost to go from Narrogin to Dryandra) or alternative accommodation in Donnybrook.
• If you are interested in helping out with these fun stops or would like more information  please let me as soon as possible.
• Owen F : Guess Who's Coming to Dinner is on Saturday you will be phoned at approximately 4pm to let you know where to go.
• Ian K : Membership committee meeting after breakfast.
• Gerry McG: Linen project went well and being shipped on Monday to PNG via Melbourne.
• Dietmar M : Fundraising  committee want cans/bottles etc
• Gorby : Vocational visit to Mundaring Pump station N.1 Friday 10 October 11.00am RSVP directly to Gorby. Scroll down to  see flyer.
• Lyn M : T-shirts can be paid by the square
• Rick S : Thanks for the meals for PICYs - please keep them coming.
• David R : RC of Como Classic Car event 28 September at Wesley college, volunteers wanted. 

 

Not to put too Fine(s) a point on it...

• P2 - Keep to the script... 
• Ken P - Happy birthday, it will cost you $1 per year
• Gorby - Back from holiday 3Kilo heavier, pay $1 a kilo
• Ian K - The only Collingwood supporter left
• Workers - If you're getting paid, then you can pay up
• All those NOT going to Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
• Raelene - NOT hosting this year
• Geoff L - new coffee shop within walking distance
• Happy people - post-children empty-nesters
• Michelle - on the face of it
• Alison - wearing jeans? Oops yes she can so Finesmaster can pay up, and also for saying 4 inductees were the 'biggest' number at any one time - wrong! 21 inductees at the charter of the club with only Rick, Owen and Vic left as originals.
• New member Shaun - $1 please.
• Eric the younger - something to do with a lawnmower hair cut
• Everyone who has visited the Floreat Forum, now celebrating its 40th year. 

Heads and Tails and Attendance

2 lots of Heads and Tails then 2 heads

and Michelle was the lucky winner.

 

32 attendees in all, including visiting ex-Rotarian Eric Carmody.

 

 

Bulletin #11 - 12 September 2025

 P2 Ponderings.

Ever the optimist, P2 welcomed Rotarians, visitors, guests, Tom Cobley and all to a sunny -but not for long - meeting! 

Our Master of Ceremonies Alison Thair conducted the induction of our four new members:

L to R:

Alison Thair, Carole O'Brien, Shaun O'Brien, Nargie Gasiroek and Lucy Gasiorek.

 Guest Speaker - Nick Lee OAM - Jodi Lee Foundation

Nick Lee was a director with Unilever, on posting in Vietnam in 2008 with his wife Jodi and their two children. Nick was away when Jodi rang complaining of constipation, abdominal pain and some bloating. Her doctor quickly recognised an obstruction in her bowel and ordered sans. Jodie had cancer and the tumor had all but blocked her bowel.

She was only 39 years old. 

After emergency surgery to remove the cancer Jodi and Nick received the worst news possible – the cancer had spread to Jodi’s lymph and liver. At best, she only had two years to live. One of the hardest things was telling their children, Jack and Arabella their mum was going to die.

Jodi passed away on 16 January 2010, a few days before her 41st birthday.

Before Jodi’s diagnosis she was fit and healthy. She had no family history and no symptoms
whatsoever, which is typical of bowel cancer. The saddest part of Jodi’s story is that it could have had a different ending if her bowel cancer had been detected early.
 
With that simple fact as the driving force, the Jodi Lee Bowel Cancer Foundation was established in 2010.

Nick has worked with Rotary groups across the country and particularly in South Australia, raising awareness and fundraising. He was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) in 2019 and is keen to continue with Rotary partnerships here in WA.
 
Nick presented some facts about Bowel Cancer.

Jodi was only 39, yet the Government had only been sending out screening tests to people from the age of 50. You can now opt-in from 45, but the JLF is lobbying for it to be earlier. A sad fact is only 40% of Australians actually take the test…the message is Trust Your Gut and persist in checking.
 
We also heard from Kris Butler, who had his symptoms dismissed as being too young for bowel cancer. It was initially diagnosed as hemorrhoids. After persisting on further testing, his cancer was diagnosed in time for successful treatment. He continued an active life, including playing football with an Ostomy bag! 

 Nick gave guidelines on how to "BEAT" bowel cancer:

 B = Be healthy and active; quit smoking, limit alcohol, exercise regularly, sit less, increase fibre in your diet, avoid charred & processed meat, eat fruit & vegetables every day

E = Explore your family history
A = Act on symptoms

T = Take a screening test

The JLF is conducting workplace programs and education about bowel cancer. A major initiative will be a special breakfast to be held during the upcoming Perth Cricket Test in late November, as part of the Ashes series against England. Well known International cricketers Ian Botham and Justin Langer will be Ambassadors for the Foundation.
 
Nick asked that we include the Symptom Checker in our Bulletin. That can be accessed via using the QR code below, or go to www.trustyourgut.com.au (http://www.trustyourgut.com.au/) 

Directors' Reports and Member Announcements
Angus F - Fundraising committee meeting following breakfast

Brian J - Member satisfaction survey been sent out - please complete as per instructions or ask for a hard copy.

Owen F - Guess Who's Coming to Dinner on Saturday 20th, register now as host or guest

Gerry McG - Thanked everyone for attending Peter Craig's memorial service and read out a letter of thanks from Denny Craig.

Gerry McG - Linen project is on 8am tomorrow so please bring gloves.

Wayne M - Remember pilot car adventure 9.30am Sunday 21 September for about 90 minutes to follow a route. RSVP Wayne on 0414 249 972 for further details.

 
The very "Fine(s)" Madame Lash strikes again!

• One Acronym too far - PP, DG Veronica who was sent a pic of past member and wife (Jon and Maryellen Godfrey, who send their fondest retards to everyone) and failed, FAILED to insert into last week's Bulletin - so here it is!

• P2 - for his bicycle turning his pinkie blue...
• Who knows what a NIMBY is or what FOMO means? Pay up if you don't know.
• P1 - lovely speech at Peter Craig's memorial of life - but a bit disconcerting when you pace...
• Alison Thair - for all those soppy posts Colin puts on FB about his "wonderful/lovely" wife whilst on holiday... we all know you're fabulous! 
• The three R's - "reading 'riting and 'rithmatic" now its 'Roger, Rita and Raceway' - dollars from those who don't support it.
• Owen for not turning up in time to dress the club
• New inductees Lucy, Nargie, Shaun and Carole
• Kim Paine for her colourful 'travelogue' of Lucy and Nargie 

Attendees

42 attendees including guest speaker Nick Lee and his guests Alison Neish, & Kris Butler, visitors Shaun and Carole O'Brien, Lucy and Nargie Gasiorek, Rhonda Kremmer, Chris Pittman, Nick Brew and visiting Rotarian Bill Boekman.