President David started the proceedings at 7.33.
There were 14 members present
Apologies Rory, Peter, Jim (now ensconced in Adelaide but will be back to visit us from time to time) Max (tiki touring all over the world) Greg (various places north and east)
Announcements
Don C told us that the club now had 14 attendees at the forthcoming RYLA event.
He added that Probus had had its first AGM and now it had 90 members had to close to new members as the venue could only accommodate 90.
Malcolm had been talking with Epsom Lodge management and was able to pass on that the residents appreciated the support given by Rotary.
Some time ago we agreed that we would donate bathroom requisites to the Grace Foundation for their residents and these donations would be made on the first meeting of the month. It is suggested that during the Sargent's session anybody who forgot donate $10!
The District Changeover Breakfast is on Saturday 1st July at the Howick Club, 107 Botany Rd at 8.00 to 11.00 am . Tickets $35 - go to https://tinyurl.com/District9920Changeover
Sargent:
Sargent David told the members of when he was accosted by a cop on during his recent South Island trip. Fortunately the fellow was a personal friend who was not waving a speeding ticket!
Three minute speaker
Ted told us of when he, and his team at Placemakers Pakuranga were held at gunpoint by two robbers. He had been told, "Keep walking, I've got a gun in your back," then told to lay down as the robbers ransacked the safe.He said he had every sympathy for shop owners suffering breaking and entry and ram raids. He's not aware that the criminals were ever caught.
Guest Speaker
Don Cowie told us of his recent holiday to the Dolomites in north eastern Italy. The region is blessed by being both mountainous and relatively isolated. Historically it remained part of the Austro Hungarian empire until the Treaty of Versailles which transfeed the region to Italy. It is now a very well organised, all season tourist resort with numerous ski lifts, accommodation, eating and travel options. It seem that the local authorities and people have really got together to ensure that their region benefits from the growth of tourism. Don strongly advocates a visit!
As an encore he told us of a recent trip that he'd taken down the Clarence River which flows between the Kaikara ranges. This was a rafting / camping trip. All the gear is provided - but take your own wetsuit!
The meeting concluded at 8.29
