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President's Notes
Tom ATKINSON
0433 117 568
member photo
Dear Rotarians and Friends, 
 
We are approaching the end of the financial year, a critical time for the charity sector as the opportunity to solicit tax deductible donations before the EOFY provides important support for year round activities. At Rotary, our major charity partner is the Rotary Foundation, one of the world's largest international charities with one of the world's best donation to cause ratios, that's the % of money that is donated that ends up in the hands of those who it was raised for. In the case of the Rotary Foundation, this number is well over 90%.
 
Donations to the Rotary Foundation support projects all over the world. One such project was the recent work funded partly by Applecross Rotary to build a special needs education unit in Kenya which produced tremendous results for the local community, a worthy cause you will agree. While this work is critical, and ongoing, the Rotary Foundation can be of benefit closer to home. Applecross Rotary has recently started discussions to fund badly needed medical support for communities in the Eastern Wheatbelt of WA, in partnership with the Telethon Speech and Hearing Institute. By collaborating with other Rotary clubs locally and across the world, we aim to secure funds from the Rotary Foundation to allow greater testing and ongoing support for children in need within our own state. This project has captured the attention of many and is progressing at speed.
 
The Rotary Foundation provides funds to Rotary Districts around the world in alignment to donations received from that region. In other words, the more we give, the more we get back and choose where it is applied. I encourage you, at this crucial time of year, to consider a donation to the Rotary Foundation, keeping in mind the many worthy projects across the world driven by Rotary volunteers including our own.
 
See the website for more details and to donate - https://www.rotary.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give 
 
Yours in Rotary
 
Tom Atkinson
President 2023/24
0433 117 568

 
VALE Jo Cook
PP Chris Dawson sadly advises the passing of Mrs Jo Cook.  Jo was the wife of our FOUNDING President Tom Cook (dec) and was "very active and supportive of the fledging club in the early days".  
 
Jo died peacefully at the Frederick Guest Hostel in Bull Creek on 1.6.2024.  A private family celebration of Jo's life will be held on what would have been her 100th birthday in July.
 
The following photo is from the Applecross Rotary archives, and I believe it was taken when Tom was District Governor in 1984/85. 
 

 
GUEST SPEAKER:  Brad Franken
In the Steps of Michelangelo?
 
Like Michelangelo, Brad Franken used to paint ceilings, but with a paint roller.  In fact he painted so many ceilings that one day he climbed up on his platform, filled his roller with paint, and discovered he couldn’t raise his arm above his shoulder.  There was no warning about this happening, it just happened!  Turns out his shoulder joint was hanging on by a few threads of previously strong ligaments.
 
Brad went to Melville SHS, before leaving for an apprenticeship as a Painter and Decorator with the Public Works Department.  His Dad was also a Painter and Decorator.  He and his older brother played soccer and cricket, and also enjoyed waterskiing.  While his brother went on to become associated with the best of Australian Football though the Socceroos and the Matildas, Brad excelled in water skiing, appearing on the Swan River for Skyshow, and also at Crabfest in Mandurah.  He also got the travel bug, backpacking around Europe and North America.
 
Brad started his own Painting and Decorating business over 30 years ago and his niche was helping fix up houses after severe damage like hail storms.  As soon as others had fixed the damaged walls and ceilings, Brad would paint them.  He painted so many that one day his right shoulder said enough is enough!
 
Surgery followed but eventually he had to face reality, he had painted his last ceiling!  Fortunately he had Income Protection Insurance, but the insurance company’s default mode was Brad was trying to commit fraud.  Every week Brad had to report to the insurer’s doctor and it took two years to convince the doctor he probably wasn’t faking his injuries.  Must have been pretty skilled fraudster to fake all those definitive MRIs, eh Doc!
 
Brad married Astrid 28 years ago.  Astrid has a Fashion business that does all its business at places like Perth Makers’ Market and they will be showing and selling their stuff at JacFest this year too.  All of the fashions are made in Bali so they go there five times a year.  And most weekends in Perth, Brad is engaged setting up and packing up Astrid’s displays.  
 
This means he is unavailable to help at quite a few Applecross Rotary events, so he has decided to serve his new Club by learning and then slowly taking over the role of Treasurer next Rotary year.
 
In the Q&A that followed, Brad was asked about how house paints have evolved.  He said that we know that lead based paints are no longer able to be sold in Australia, and shortly oil based paints will be totally phased out.  This is also for health reasons and it is made easier by the newer water based paints that are every bit as good if not better than the oil based paints, and much better for a painter’s long term health.
 
Brad joined Applecross Rotary on 12 March this year.
 

 
ROTARY ART SHOW AND SALE IS NOW ON!
 
Following a successful set up on Sunday afternoon/evening the 49th Art Show and Sale is now on at the GARDEN CITY SHOPPING CENTRE.
 
A combined project of the Applecross and Melville Rotary Clubs with the aim "To encourage Artists and afford them the opportunity to exhibit their works to the public."
 
A fantastic collaborative effort from everyone setting up the panels, registering and hanging the paintings. We even had Pete from the Applecross Rotary Wiggles join us! wink
 

 
 
 
Kenn's Musings

TO SUNDOWNERS, OR NOT TO SUNDOWNERS? THAT IS THE QUESTION...

PROPOSED CLUB DISCUSSION - JUNE 18th (Coordinated with incoming Co President Murray)

Throughout my nearly three decades in Applecross Rotary, our beloved Sundowners have stood as pillars within the club's social fabric, consistently drawing in a robust attendance of members, partners, and guests. Personally, and I know I speak for many, these gatherings hold a special place in our hearts.

They serve not only as a means of socializing but as a platform for strengthening the bonds of friendship forged through our Rotary connections. As time marches on, the significance of cultivating these meaningful relationships becomes increasingly apparent in enriching our overall quality of life.

Yet, recent gatherings have witnessed a decline in attendance, prompting us to ponder: IS IT TIME TO REIMAGINE OUR SOCIAL ENGAGEMENTS FOR THE FUTURE? And at its core: DOES THIS ALIGN WITH THE DESIRES OF THE MAJORITY AMIDST OUR EVER-EVOLVING WORLD?

Examining the landscape of post-Covid social dynamics, a noticeable hesitancy towards traditional communal activities emerges. Could this reluctance be contributing to our current situation? Or are other factors at play:

  • Are our schedules more packed?
  • Have we prioritized other activities?
  • Has the appeal of such gatherings diminished?
  • Should we reconsider the timing or venue?
  • Is the economic climate influencing perceptions of affordability?

Moreover, is the current rotation of hosting venues becoming stale? Could we revitalize our gatherings by establishing a regular social evening at Tompkins Park, perhaps with the option of dining together?

Should we explore the possibility of inviting neighboring Rotary clubs on a quarterly basis to inject fresh perspectives and excitement?

Are there alternative formats that offer ease of management while fostering stronger connections outside of formal club meetings? Some organizations are opting for fewer regular meetings in favor of occasional social dinner events. Could this model resonate with our younger members or entice new recruits?

Might a hiatus for Sundowners allow for new ideas to percolate, or should we persist and adapt?

For those unfamiliar, Sundowners typically occur from 5:30 to 7 PM on the last Thursday of each month, with no entry fee—just bring your own refreshments. It couldn't be simpler!

Let's collectively ponder the future of our social engagements and come prepared for a Club discussion on June 18th.

We, who champion the enduring value of these gatherings to our club's vitality, eagerly await your insights!

Kenn Williams 0428 472619


 
Sponsorship from MLA Kim & Thankyou from SPYC
The following correspondence was received from MLA Kim Giddens and SoPYC Commodore Troy Daglish thanking Applecross Rotary for our support of the 'Cruising Butterflies' event.
 
 

 
COMO ROTARY Winter Wine Offer
Members and friends,
 
After an almost endless summer, winter has arrived with a vengeance this week. What better time to stock up your cellars for the long cold, dark days ahead.
 
This is an opportunity to buy some wine you have had before plus a couple of new entries from the same stable.
 
With the continued assistance of our Corporate member and long- time valued sponsor , Pierre at Preston Street IGA, Karalee Tavern and Liquor Barons on Angelo, we are again making available to you 
the West Cape Howe Wines “Cape to Cape” range , Vinaceous Wines and Risky Business Wines  at $140 per dozen ( $11.66 per bottle) which includes $30 per case donation to Rotary.
 
These wines are well- known Western Australian brands from vineyards in the Great Southern and Margaret River regions and we are sure you will find the quality to be outstanding value.  And they will be delivered to your door free of charge.
 
The following varieties are available:
2023  WCH Semillon Sauvignon Blanc                   
2023  WCH Chardonnay                            
2023  Risky Business Reisling  
2022 Vinaceous Rose
2022 Vinaceous Fiano
2021  WCH Shiraz                                                     
2021  WCH Cabernet Merlot 
2023 WCH Regional Pinot Noir  
2022 Vinaceous  Voodoo Moon Malbec
 
The Risky Business Reisling and Vinaceous Malbec are new offers and the tasting notes are included at end of this story. I have tried both and find them to be very interesting and enjoyable inclusions.
 
This offer is limited to Rotary members, family and friends.
 
Please email your order to me at alram@live.com.au  as soon as possible so we can deliver before 30 June.
 
Payment should be made direct to Como Rotary Charity Account as follows:
 
Rotary Club of Como
Commonwealth Bank
BSB 066-153
Account 10865422
Note Surname &” Wine”
 
 Regards
 
Alan Ramsay
Rotary Club of Como
0408090753
 

 
FOOTY TIPPING ROUND 13

Round 13 WINNER - ? smiley

 
 
 
 

SEASON LEADER BOARD as at R12

 

 
 
Upcoming Events
2024 ROTARY ART SHOW AND SALE
Westfield Booragoon Shopping Centre
Jun 10, 2024 – Jun 16, 2024
 
BREAKFAST MEETING 11th June 2024
DOME Deep Water Point
Jun 11, 2024
7:30 am – 8:30 am
 
BREAKFAST MEETING 18th June 2024
DOME Deep Water Point
Jun 18, 2024
7:30 am – 8:30 am
 
BREAKFAST MEETING 25th June 2024
DOME Deep Water Point
Jun 25, 2024
7:30 am – 8:30 am
 
BREAKFAST MEETING 2nd July 2024
DOME Deep Water Point
Jul 02, 2024
7:30 am – 8:30 am
 
Perth Makers Market
Goolugatup Heathcote
Sep 22, 2024
 
Perth Makers Market
Goolugatup Heathcote
Nov 03, 2024
 
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Guest Speaker Schedule 
Jun 11, 2024 7:30 AM
Shelter Box Update
Shelter Box Update

Shelter Box is one of those great successes our Club funds every year.  

Mike has been involved with ShelterBox since 2006 when he deployed to Papua New Guinea as a volunteer Response Team member. Since then, he has deployed 22 times as a Response Team member and team leader.

He became CEO of ShelterBox Australia in 2016, after serving as General Manager since 2013. He leads a small, hardworking team of staff and volunteers, responsible for raising more than $14 million for disaster relief.

Jun 18, 2024 7:30 AM
My Story
Jun 25, 2024 7:30 AM
Using matching funds from District and Rotary Foundation
Jul 02, 2024 7:30 AM
The current state of shipping trade in Australia & world wide & the impact on our goods and services
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Member Birthdays
Hamish TURNER
June 4
 
Marianne THOMPSON
June 10
 
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June 10
 
Peter McEWEN
June 26
 
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June 27
 
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June 6
 
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June 11
 
Lee WHELAN
June 16
 
Join Date
George MAVROS
June 4, 1991
33 years
 
Ronald BOWER
June 4, 1991
33 years
 
Meeting Duties 11th June 2024
RECEPTION
HAEUSLER, Tony
 
SERGEANT
DAWSON, Chris
 
HOST
BLUETT, Nik
 
SETUP
BRAZIER, Lorri
 
PACKUP
PALMER, Liz
 
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