Hi all,

This week we had apologies from, Karen Armstrong, Geoff Adcock, Kylie Rowbottom, Mick
Costello, Brian Fitzpatrick, Carmel Fitzpatrick, Barb Leane, Rita O’Brien, and Ben Hill.

We had a quick visit from Sue Foley to thank us for the sponsorship of the Celtic Festival.

Our Guest Speaker this week was Rachel Mason who is the Senior Manager for Development at La Trobe University.  Rachel was an Eaglehawk girl and studied Business and Management then specialised in Philanthropy, she has worked in various roles around the country and returned to Bendigo to raise her family.  She worked for Bendigo Health raising much needed funds and has moved on to the University.  Rachel explained that the La Trobe University is wanting to re-engage with the community. She is involved with “Regional Pathways” and explained that regional students deserve the same opportunities as their city peers – but the education gap between these two groups continues to widen. Approximately 33% of adults in Melbourne hold a university degree, but the numbers drop sharply in regional areas. In Shepparton for example the numbers are as low as 13%.

 

Without targeted support, talented students miss out on opportunities, and regional communities miss out on the skilled professionals they urgently need.  Her role at the University is to seek funding from philanthropic organisations and individuals for scholarships to assist bridging this gap.

 

I reported that Mary and Laurie, Mick and his daughter Sophie and I assisted in supervising events at the recent Science and Engineering Challenge which was held at SE Secondary Collage and was organised by the RC of Bendigo South, this was well attended by surrounding schools and was sponsored by various Rotary Clubs, including ours.  A great success and it was terrific to see our District Governor in attendance, along with
representatives from many district clubs.

John Gurr reported that the Book Shop took $400.00 on the Wednesday, a marvellous result.

 

Tim reported that his daughter Sarah will be coming down from Canberra shortly to do a
book reading and distribute “Marvellous Miles” to local schools and childcare centres.

 

Our Bonfire night at Gary and Lola’s place on the 6th of September may have an
internationality acclaimed musician in attendance, keep the date free.

Lynne reported that applications for NYSF are still open and was concerned that applications may be much slower coming in this year.

 

Please try to come along to the Gala celebration marking the 100 years of the Rotary Club of Bendigo on the 23rd of August, 2 seats are still available on our tables.

Our club has offered assistance to Peter Cox’s family in contributing to the cost of his
memorial service which is to be held at the Eaglehawk Town Hall next Wednesday.

It is with regret that I inform you of the passing of Mandy Costello’s mother, Betty, last
Wednesday.  On behalf of everyone, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Mandy and her
family during this difficult time.

Until next week stay safe.
Geoff Gallagher