ZEST PASSED THE TEST!
After being momentarily “venueless” last meeting, we finally got to enjoy the hospitality of Zest café who made us all very welcome and put a delicious menu together.
Marcus Adams did a sterling job stepping in to fill the President’s role in Catherine’s absence and we were delighted to be joined by a number of guests and enjoy two speakers – Dick Bartley of Emerald Village Association and Michael Small of the Rotary Club of Upper Blue Mountains in NSW.
Congratulations were extended to Susie Wilson on winning two gold medals and a silver medal at the recent Masters Games in various running events. Now we know where she gets all her energy from!
Our next meeting will be at the newly-renovated Paradise Hotel and the new owner will join us for dinner.
GUEST SPEAKER DICK BARTLEY
Dick gave an update on activities of the Emerald Village Association. This group aims to be the voice of Emerald and wants to increase its membership from 40 to 100.
Below is a summary of key points:
- The association is working on publishing a new newsletter with current news for fortnightly distribution.
- The association meets with Cardinia Shire Council ward councillors once a month to discuss various issues. Carol Jeffs, the new CEO of Cardinia Council, came to the last meeting which focussed on town planning matters. Concern was expressed about the quality and style of some buildings being constructed in Emerald. Concern was also raised about whether or not Emerald Lake Road would have the capacity to cope with the expected increase in cars with the opening of the new Puffing Billy Discovery Centre.
- The new Hills Hub building is expected to open in November this year. Council will appoint a manager to run operations for the next two years. The U3A, Men’s Shed and other community groups will operate from the hub. There is potential to store equipment on site and the opportunity to share resources such as photocopying. Prices to hire rooms are expected to be acceptable for community groups.
- Nominations for the annual Emerald Citizen of the Year Awards are now open. Awards will be given to Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year. Nominations close on 4 October and will be presented at the EVA community networking night being held at the RSL on 22 October.
- The annual Emerald Community Network Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 22 October at the RSL. Community groups are invited to attend and will have an opportunity to talk about their own group.
GUEST SPEAKER MICHAEL SMALL
A member of the Rotary Club of Upper Blue Mountains, Michael said that each Rotary club has its own personality and our club is similar to his club with a happy vibe and people who really enjoy each other’s company while achieving great things for their community.
Michael told of us a wonderful story where Rotary was able to help a young local boy by accessing funds through the Rotary Australia Compassionate Grants program. Dick Smith has provided two lots of one million dollars to make the program possible.
In closing, Michael reminded us that when out and about in the community or at a social function, have the conversation and ask “Have I ever spoken to you about Rotary?” as you never know when you may be speaking with a prospective member.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Community Service
John Henderson gave an update on the forthcoming Fun Run with Thomas being held on Sunday, 24 November. He reminded new members to ensure they get a Working with Children Check and for others to renew them. Posters are being printed within the next two weeks. Members are asked to help distribute the posters, and to like and share Facebook posts. There is a meeting on Monday, 16 September at Falcone and Adams.
Susie Wilson thanked Shalini and Catherine for helping out at last month’s Dig In Café. Susie needs two volunteers on the last Friday of each month to help out so please consider assisting if you are able.
Selby Community House is running a festival on Friday, 4 October and looking for volunteers. They are needing two people to assist with road traffic control and one person to assist with giving out information.
RIDE LIKE A GIRL
There are still some tickets for the End Polio Now fundraiser Ride Like a Girl movie night at the Cameo theatre on Friday, 20 September. Click here for tickets or speak with Gayle who can organise tickets on your behalf.
