It's Christmas Time
Rotary Christmas Party 2023
On December 5, 2023, we held our Christmas Party in the Wine Room at Balgowlah RSL.
Rotarians, partners together with some members of our charity organisations attended the informal gathering and enjoyed the very nice 2 course Christmas buffet meal.
After welcoming all who attended, President Roger Gray said some Rotarians could not attend for various reasons including illness or travels and sent messages of good wishes to all.
He then asked PP Sue Terry to introduce Kerry Gwynne, Manager Dalwood Splistead Service who is well known to us all for the amazing work she does assisting vulnerable families who are experiencing stress and challenges in the care and parenting (including areas of health, education & welfare) of children under 9 years of age.
Kerry explained how the toys and presents donated by the club members will be added to Kerry’s purchases for the Spilstead annual Christmas Party.
Well done to Michael Brent, Lindy Myers and Sue Terry for organising the evening and making it so enjoyable. A great night and suitable celebration of Christmas spirit
All the great photos thanks to John O'Brien
DV Walk - Northern Beaches.
From Liz McDougall ( District Secretary, Warringah Rotary)
A large contingent took part in the Northern Beaches 16 Days of Activism Walk from Queenscliff to Shelly Beach.
At the end of the walk, orange cut out cardboard hands, prepared by students from Mackellar Girls High who walked with us, were pinned to a line.
They represented the 54 women known to have been killed by family or domestic violence in 2023. Mostly by intimate partners but also other family members and many in their homes where they should have been safe. A gong was sounded after each name was read out by Dr Lorna Scott from Northern Beaches Zonta. It was a truly moving remembrance.
The walk was organised by the Northern Beaches Domestic Violence Network, Northern Beaches Zonta and the Rotary Clubs of Balgowlah & Warringah.
It was supported by local police, politicians, groups involved in domestic violence support and individuals.
Detective Chief Inspector Michael Boutouridis walked with us, as did two mounted police on their magnificent horses.Above were two police helicopters and offshore a Water Police boat.
Dressed in sizzling orange, Mayor and ex Rotarian Sue Heins, spoke prior to the walk, as did Manly MP James Griffin. Representatives for our other local MPs attended (it was a parliament sitting day). Karen Smith gave acknowledgement of country.
The walk set off with Mackellar Girls holding our banner.
From Warringah Rotary , Sally Allen, Chrisy Savvides and Liz McDougall walked plus Sue Terry from the Rotary Club of Balgowlah and Phil and Beth Jackson filmed as we passed.
| Liz McDougall (Rotary Warringah), Detective Chief Inspector Michael Boutouridis | and PP Sue Terry (Balgowlah Rotary) |
Many people acknowledged and supported us, standing silently as we passed, encouraging us and some clapping in support. If only a few we passed take on our message it is a good thing.
Our Rotary Club took part in the organisation of the walk as part of the United Nations 16 Days of Activism (25thNovember to 10th December).
This coincides with Rotary District 9685’s Say NO to domestic and family violence and YES to respectful relationships campaign.
Our involvement with this campaign will continue with other initiatives in 2024 and beyond.
Photos : Sue Terry & Liz McDougall
It's In the Bag - Recognition in Parliament.
The club received a most complementary Community Recognition Statement from our local member, Hon James Griffin, member for Manly
Community Northern Beaches
Congratulations to Chris Lake the new chair of CNB who also received a Community Service Award from our club earlier this year.
3 Dates to note
- Alois and Nigi Lechner have invited members to join them at home on Boxing Day, 26th December, to view the start of the Sydney Hobart race. Please let Alois and Nigi know by 20th December if you would like to join them.
- Our annual club picnic/barbecue at the Clontarf reserve -5.00pm on Tuesday 16th January - bring your own/share salads etc and cutlery/plates. More details shortly. Meanwhile, please let Michael or Roger know by 7th January who will be joining us
- We have decided to hold a "Club Assembly" on Tuesday 30th January - venue to be determined. This will be an opportunity for members to put forward fresh ideas/initiatives for the future. We will be asking for these to be put to members in advance so that we can have informed/stimulating discussion.
Enjoy your Christmas and stay safe!
Finally:
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