Last Meeting - Monday 20th May, 2024 - Geoff Pritchard - Cold War
Tom has mentioned Geoff's enthralling story.
In 1949 ASIO (Australian Security Intelligence Organisation) was set up to try and monitor the ‘Cold War’ which was secretly occurring around the world after the end of WWII. ASIO discovered that a young Russian doctor practising in the Wollongong area of NSW had been actively involved in espionage in Europe during WWII. They convinced the doctor to move to Sydney and set him up discreetly in practice in Macquarie St close to ASIO headquarters. He was then cultivated as a spy for Australia specifically against Russia who he despised due to their treatment of his family who had fled from Ukraine to Poland at the start of the war.
He was able to infiltrate the Russian embassy in Canberra by befriending their so-called third Secretary, Vladimir Petrov, a recent arrival to Australia and, as it turned out, a KGB agent. He was given the job of seducing the doctor to spy in Australia for Russia……a typical double agent.
He was successful, and the Petrovs settled in Australia. For more details there is a book available.
Thanks Geoff for an very interesting story.
Member news:
- We will be requesting a District Grant in June, and are looking for an appropriate project.
Please consider and let a board member know before their meeting on June 13th.
- Catherine is progressing the set-up of the Crowsnestrotarynswaustralia Instagram account
- ROMAC are still looking for an Operational Director.
- Mary House has requested urgent donations which will be considered at next month's board meeting.
- Tom has nominated the 'Buddy Benches' project for a District Award.
- Please response to Tom survey on improving member meeting attendance.
- Kate is updating WWC (Working with Children) information, please respond to her emails.
- East Timor RYLA is celebrating 15years. Members welcome to join Angelo in Dili in October.
- We have 3 requests for overseas projects, which will be considered at next month's board meeting.
- We have registered for the Crows Nest Fair on October 20th.
- Reminder Changeover is July 8th. Invite will issue soon.
Reminders:
-June 13th - Board Meeting 5pm
-14th June. Nominations for Inspirational Woman Award, Nomination due
-17-19th June, 2024 Rotary Leadership Course - (On-line), Louise to attend
-8th July Change-Over Dinner for Crows Nest -
