Next week: SA Schools Services for the Visually Impaired
Last Meeting
Venue: Living Choice with Nature's Providore
Guest Speaker: None
Guests: Marylin Jolliffe, Rodrigo Gouveie,Rowena Barbosa and Rob's Assistants Eukumbeth and Joanne
Attendance: 30 members 5 guests
Welcome
President Rhonda opened the meeting on time, a discipline that is yet to apply to meeting closing times. The torturous process of getting the technology to work ensued and despite Simon Becket's best efforts success eluded us, at least for the start.
No Guest Speaker: - International Service Committee Presentation
Paul Duke, the Chair of the International Service committee introduced us to the members. They are Deborah Forbes, Jason Booth, Jan Rice, Bronwyn and Brenden Kenny, and Bob Mills. A key initiative is WASH, Water Sanitation and Health of young women in third world countries. The committee has donated $2,000 to the Nepal Eye Care programme (although we later heard that this wasn’t used for eye care), $1,000 to Malaria eradication and treatment, $1,000 towards ending polio, and $1,000 towards the programme that brings children from Oceania to Adelaide for life changing surgery.
The committee has a budget of $15,000 and is asking the Board to increase this to $20,000 and they plan to spend the lot (more if they can).
Jason Booth, Jan Rice and Bronwyn Kenny then provided information about the eye test programme in Nepal that Jason has been involved with for over 20 years. This truly amazing programme has annually (when not Covidish) sent a team of 20 from Australia (Optometrists, Dispensers and support folk), who join up with 20 Nepalese folk (2 optometrists and the remainder facilitators) to test people’s eyes, dispense glasses and treat cataracts. In the past two years there have been two teams.
They have operated in a large number of regions in Nepal (and previously also in Cambodia), the conditions are challenging, and there is always a huge queue of people to service. The sense of achievement is, however, enormous. The venture does not rely on money from the Unley Rotary Club as the activities funded by the participants, and the financial contribution over the journey add up to $500,000.
The $2,000 donated by the club was used to assist the communities visited in other ways.
Deborah Forbes spoke of her visit to Siem Reap in Cambodia where she met with the local Rotaract club that started in 2022. They have 54 members of current and recent students, and they involve themselves in numerous projects to improve the lives of young people in their city. They support those attending Uni, they have their own WASH programme, they supply used bicycles to needy young people, and solar lights so kids without electricity can study at night. They do these things, along with other projects. They are highly organised and careful with the money they get from Rotary Clubs in Australia and other countries.
Behind the Badge
Graham Beckett
Graham is an endearing and sprightly 87 year old chappy, born and raised across the ditch, schooled on the South Island and a graduate of the University of Auckland, where he managed to get the hockey team into a FIAT 500, only to be outdone by the bigger boys of the rugby team achieving the same feat. He undertook military training and whilst this was before involvement in the Vietnam war, he was involved in the planning for it.
He moved to Sydney, and after a brief engagement with the Australian military he set up a business importing chemicals, only to be put out of business by a change in the tariff regime.
Encouraged by an old flame he reluctantly went on a blind date 58 years ago and discovered that love is in fact blind, dating and then marrying the lovely Patsy.
He studied law, embarked on a career as a Merchant Banker and from there drifted into finance, mortgages and Property Valuation that became his specialty. He lectured at the Hawkesbury College and then briefly at the University of NSW. He was instrumental in establish ongoing Professional Development in the Valuation profession.
He was encouraged to join the Rotary Club of Penrith by his Father in Law and was instrumental in them raising $1 million to build a 16 room residential facility to be used by the parents of oncology patients in the hospital.
Upon retirement they visited Adelaide where they had an investment property where the tenant was leaving. They decided to stay in the property for a while and eventually decided to relocate to our fine city.
Graeme and Patsy have three children including our member Simon, their daughter who is with Anglicare in Sydney and their other son involved in Property valuation, living in the lovely town of Moss Vale in the Southern Tablelands of NSW.
Over time he has enjoyed swimming, surfing, skin diving and snorkelling, and he and Patsy have enjoyed travelling.
Spots
Hayden Baillie spoke of the Police Officer of the Year (POOTY) Presentation at the Royal Show on 5th September and drew member’s attention to the email sent to all by Chris Davis asking them to advise if they are attending.
He also advised that the Foodbank he has volunteered at and that is supported by the Rotary Club of Edwardstown is shifting to Pooraka and may no longer attract that club’s support.
Marie Roth spoke of the Quiz Night on 30th August and implored those who haven’t yet booked to do so. If they can’t put a table together but would like to attend they should let her know. She mentioned that Ross Smith is also seeking further wine donations.
Vivienne Wood spoke of the Mosaic event on 13th September that is supported by the club and requiring 8 volunteers to staff the table at the event. She encouraged members to attend.
She went on to mention there are gaps in the Thrift Shop roster for September especially on Fridays and to a lesser extent on Thursdays. She asked members who are able to, to consider making a long term commitment to these time slots.
Simon Beckett advised of progress in moving our trailer to its new home in Robert Freak’s shed, and that the Barbecue stuff currently in the Thrift Shop will be relocated there in the near future.
Bronwyn Kenny advised that the Brass Ensemble of which she and Brendan are members are playing in September outdoors in McLaren Vale where the performance may be interrupted or cancelled due to inclement weather. She asked to use the club’s marquee as they have previously, and there seemed to be general agreement. She also asked if there were any who could help with the erection and the pull down at the end. The date is 21st September (I think) and anyone who can help should contact Bronwyn or Brendan.
John Peacham needs two people to help with the Bunnings BBQ on Monday morning and two more in the afternoon. Please contact John if you can help.
He also advised of the BBQ at the Zoo on Wednesday 24th September where the help of 20 members or friends is required at times during the day.
Awards
Vera-Ann Stacey
Past President John harked back to the changeover night where the retiring President awards things to members and others who have provided extraordinary service over the year. Unfortunately, Vera-Ann was unable to attend and John was now able to complete the happy task. Vera-Ann was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship, the highest award made to club members and provided by Rotary International as a result of a donation made by the club to the Rotary Foundation. John spoke of Vera-Ann’s substantial contribution to the success of the club’s agenda over the past Rotary year and congratulated her on the award.
Bob Mullins
President Rhonda then called Bob Mullins forward to receive a Significant Service Awards due to his 44 years of Rotary membership. There is no doubt that Bob’s contribution to the club over that period as a Past President, the head of various committees and the driving force behind much of the work in getting the Thrift Shop refitted from tine to time has been substantial and the award is richly deserved.
Virginia Cossid
President Rhonda called Virginia forward to receive an award from the Rotary Foundation to recognise her contribution. Rhonda encourage others in the club to emulate Virginia’s largess. Sorry Virginia, I took a picture but it was all fuzzy.
Finale
President Rhonda reminded us that Simon Beckett is seeking photographic material to fulfil the project of the Public Image Committee.
She also mentioned the intention to occupy part of the Unley shopping centre for a promotional event that may involve members knotting scarves
The Raffle was drawn. Robert Freak won the money and Brenton Judge won the sweetness.
In closing, the President asked us all to think about helping those who are less privileged than ourselves. And then, finally, having shoved two pounds of sugar into a one pound bag, the overflowing meeting closed 25 minutes late.
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Rotary projects around the globe
August 2025
By Brad Webber
United States
To help people affected by the financial crisis of 2008, the Rotary Club of Summit County (Frisco) began serving a weekly dinner free of charge in the Colorado ski town. Sixteen years later, they haven’t stopped. In January, the club and its partners served their 200,000th meal. “The housing and mortgage crisis deeply affected people in Summit County, so in November 2008 I went to a nonprofit in the county and asked the director what was needed to help people through it,” says club member Deborah Hage. “For people displaced, living in their cars, or sofa surfing, there was no way for them to prepare meals with the food being distributed by the food banks and pantries.” On a typical Tuesday night, 100 to 500 people — children, families, retirees, and even donors who simply enjoy the camaraderie — come together to share restaurant-quality dinners and good company.
Canada
Dogs are feeling especially lucky in the Yukon territory thanks to the Rotary Club of Whitehorse-Rendezvous, which bakes, packages, and sells pet treats to raise funds. The club’s annual dog biscuit sale has generated about CA$3,000 since it began three years ago. Proceeds benefit the Mae Bachur Animal Shelter and the Food Bank Society of the Yukon in Whitehorse. “This fundraiser brings Rotarians together for enjoyable social occasions in our various homes, and local people love the biscuits for their dogs,” says Kevin Rumsey, immediate past president of the club. Rumsey’s mother created the recipe, which includes pumpkin and peanut butter. “We always sell out,” he adds. “We even deliver to people’s homes.”
Greece
In December, the Rotary E-Club of Greece began delivering wheelchairs to archeological sites and museums throughout the country. Through May, the e-club and three other clubs — Halandri, Preveza, and Psychico — had distributed 17 wheelchairs valued at $2,600. Benefiting institutions included the Aegean Maritime Museum on Mykonos, the Archaeological Museum of Patras, the ESIEPIN Press Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art. “This is a large-scale project covering almost all of Greece, with deliveries planned for 14 museums and archeological sites,” says George Stavropoulos, immediate past president of the e-club.
Rwanda
The Rotary Club of Kigali Golf is passionate about more than just hitting the links. Within months of its formation, the club began supporting programs to foster entrepreneurship within the deaf community and other underrepresented groups. In November the club delivered more than a dozen sewing, knitting, and textile heat-press machines to the Rwanda National Union of the Deaf and to Empower the Future, an organization supporting mothers of former street children. The equipment, valued at about $8,500, was paid for with member donations as well as a golf tournament (naturally).
“We look forward to building a long-term partnership with the Rwanda Union of the Deaf, Empower the Future, and other organizations supporting marginalized communities,” says Tabvi “Mellow” Motsi, a member of the club’s public relations committee.
Korea
In March, the largest wildfires in Korea’s history swept across the country’s southeast, scorching nearly 120,000 acres and forcing more than 37,000 people to evacuate. Rotary districts swiftly assessed the needs and delivered food, water, hygiene kits, and other essential supplies to shelters and affected communities. Rotarians were able to reach even more people in need through $100,000 in funding from The Rotary Foundation. Rotary members also assisted with clearing orchards and with home demolition in devastated areas. Some even provided heavy equipment, including to assist with reconstruction of the historic Gounsa temple in Uiseong. “Disasters like these strike without warning,” says Ung Seop Jeong, immediate past governor of District 3590. “No one is truly prepared, but Rotary is always there for the community.”
Coffee Chat at Impressa, Unley Shopping Centre
10.30 am on the first Friday of the month is good for a chat with Rotary friends and a caffeine fix - Next one is Friday 5 September 2025
Upcoming Meetings
Tuesday 26 August 2025 6 for 6.30pm Living Choice
Guest Speaker: Jo Minniss SA School & Services for Vision Impaired
Welcoming team: Ross Burton and Robyn Carnachan
Saturday 30 August is our SUPER QUIZ at Fullarton Park Community Centre
Apologies and Meeting Enquiries to: Secretary Greg McLeod on 0417 811 838 or email to secretary@unleyrotary.org.au
Venue Set-up Enquiries to: Bulletin Editor Stephen Baker on 0403 687 015
Saturday Thrift Shop Roster
Early Shift: 10.00am to 1.00pm Late Shift: 1.00pm to 4.00pm
Early: David Middleton & Nathan White | Late: Deb Forbes (Vera Holt) & Rhonda Hoare
Week 4: 23 August 2025
Early: John Kikkert (Stephen Baker) & Judi Corcoran | Late: Jason Booth & Vera-Ann Stacy
Week 5: 30 August 2025
Early: Bob Mullins & Wendy Andrews | Late: Virginia Cossid & Paul Duke
Rotarians, who are unable to attend as rostered, please arrange a swap or as a very last resort contact: Vivienne Wood 0408 819 630; e-mail: vwood@ozemail.com.au
Mitre 10 and Bunnings Barbeques
The Mitre 10 BBQs are the first and third Saturdays of each month. Morning shift 8.30am - 12 noon; afternoon shift 12.00 - 3.30pm, then clean-up.....next scheduled is Saturday 6 September 2025
ALL the Bunnings Mile End Barbeque shifts are from 8am to 5pm
We have been allocated the last Monday of each month, the next being Monday 25 August 2025
The Tale End.....
International Flavour
An International School Teacher
...starts a lesson with her 4 students, who are an American kid, an African kid, a European kid and a Chinese kid. She asks "what's your opinion on food scarcity in other countries?"
first, the African kid asks "what's food?"
the European kid asks "what's scarcity?"
the American kid asks "what's other countries?"
and finally the Chinese kid asks "what's my own opinion?"
I work for the Big, International Non-Governmental Organization.
And BINGO is its name-o.
Have you heard of the international bathroom?
When you go there, you're Russian.
Once there, European.
At the the end, you're Finnish.
Rotary
Club of Unley
This email was sent by Stephen Baker
Rotary Club of Unley | PO Box 18 | Unley | SA | 5061 | Australia
Jason Booth, Jan Rice and Bronwyn Kenny then provided information about the eye test programme in Nepal that Jason has been involved with for over 20 years. This truly amazing programme has annually (when not Covidish) sent a team of 20 from Australia (Optometrists, Dispensers and support folk), who join up with 20 Nepalese folk (2 optometrists and the remainder facilitators) to test people’s eyes, dispense glasses and treat cataracts. In the past two years there have been two teams.
Deborah Forbes spoke of her visit to Siem Reap in Cambodia where she met with the local Rotaract club that started in 2022. They have 54 members of current and recent students, and they involve themselves in numerous projects to improve the lives of young people in their city. They support those attending Uni, they have their own WASH programme, they supply used bicycles to needy young people, and solar lights so kids without electricity can study at night. They do these things, along with other projects. They are highly organised and careful with the money they get from Rotary Clubs in Australia and other countries.
Graham is an endearing and sprightly 87 year old chappy, born and raised across the ditch, schooled on the South Island and a graduate of the University of Auckland, where he managed to get the hockey team into a FIAT 500, only to be outdone by the bigger boys of the rugby team achieving the same feat. He undertook military training and whilst this was before involvement in the Vietnam war, he was involved in the planning for it.
Past President John harked back to the changeover night where the retiring President awards things to members and others who have provided extraordinary service over the year. Unfortunately, Vera-Ann was unable to attend and John was now able to complete the happy task. Vera-Ann was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship, the highest award made to club members and provided by Rotary International as a result of a donation made by the club to the Rotary Foundation. John spoke of Vera-Ann’s substantial contribution to the success of the club’s agenda over the past Rotary year and congratulated her on the award.
President Rhonda then called Bob Mullins forward to receive a Significant Service Awards due to his 44 years of Rotary membership. There is no doubt that Bob’s contribution to the club over that period as a Past President, the head of various committees and the driving force behind much of the work in getting the Thrift Shop refitted from tine to time has been substantial and the award is richly deserved.
To help people affected by the financial crisis of 2008, the Rotary Club of Summit County (Frisco) began serving a weekly dinner free of charge in the Colorado ski town. Sixteen years later, they haven’t stopped. In January, the club and its partners served their 200,000th meal. “The housing and mortgage crisis deeply affected people in Summit County, so in November 2008 I went to a nonprofit in the county and asked the director what was needed to help people through it,” says club member Deborah Hage. “For people displaced, living in their cars, or sofa surfing, there was no way for them to prepare meals with the food being distributed by the food banks and pantries.” On a typical Tuesday night, 100 to 500 people — children, families, retirees, and even donors who simply enjoy the camaraderie — come together to share restaurant-quality dinners and good company.
Dogs are feeling especially lucky in the Yukon territory thanks to the Rotary Club of Whitehorse-Rendezvous, which bakes, packages, and sells pet treats to raise funds. The club’s annual dog biscuit sale has generated about CA$3,000 since it began three years ago. Proceeds benefit the 
In December, the Rotary E-Club of Greece began delivering wheelchairs to archeological sites and museums throughout the country. Through May, the e-club and three other clubs — Halandri, Preveza, and Psychico — had distributed 17 wheelchairs valued at $2,600. Benefiting institutions included the Aegean Maritime Museum on Mykonos, the Archaeological Museum of Patras, the ESIEPIN Press Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art. “This is a large-scale project covering almost all of Greece, with deliveries planned for 14 museums and archeological sites,” says George Stavropoulos, immediate past president of the e-club.
The Rotary Club of Kigali Golf is passionate about more than just hitting the links. Within months of its formation, the club began supporting programs to foster entrepreneurship within the deaf community and other underrepresented groups. In November the club delivered more than a dozen sewing, knitting, and textile heat-press machines to the 
In March, the largest wildfires in Korea’s history swept across the country’s southeast, scorching nearly 120,000 acres and forcing more than 37,000 people to evacuate. Rotary districts swiftly assessed the needs and delivered food, water, hygiene kits, and other essential supplies to shelters and affected communities. Rotarians were able to reach even more people in need through $100,000 in funding from 
