Another inspiring speaker this week. Cecile from Canteen walked us thru their ‘Memory Box’ project. (details below). This project was kicked off by our donation last year which allows for 150 memory boxes to be given to those in need. It was reassuring to hear the stories of the impact these memory boxes have on people who have lost loved ones.
To top it off, Past President Angelo announced that a donor was doubling all donations to Canteen last month, so his $2500 Giving night donation was moved forward, and doubled to $5000. Speedy board approval and a few phone calls meant we made the deadline by literally hours. Thanks Angelo.
Past President Angelo had another surprise, leftover from Changeover Night. He presented Kate a well-deserved Paul Harris Award for all her quiet work in the background.
Please note we had a successful board meeting on the 21st of August, and the link to the minutes is on the right-hand side of this eBulletin. We made a decision to hold the next board meeting during our lunch on Monday 1st December. This will allow us to engage all members and stop some duplication.
I would really appreciate everyone replying to my email about your availability in October. Even a few hours on a couple of occasions would greatly help.
I hope to see you all at our next dinner (Monday September 15th) when our District Governor (Michelle) will be visiting. A reminder that the District ‘Email Scam’ has resurfaced. Please ignore any emails from Michelle asking for money.
“Grief is just love with nowhere to go”. This impactful quote was shared by Cecile Pierron from Canteen - an Australian charity that has provides support to young people and their families impacted by cancer. Canteen also provides services for parents dealing with cancer in their family.
With the support of Rotary, Canteen has developed a memory box, which is based on a therapeutic framework. These boxes have become a vital part of support and treatment for young people and their families. The purpose of these boxes is to encourage and maintain memories. They contain materials- from art to souvenir -which are then further developed by the participant. The memories stored in these boxes have significantly helped children open-up and talk about their grief and keep memories alive.
Annually, 23,000 young people have their world turned upside down by cancer and most have difficulty coping. Canteen, with help from Kmart and Riot, have created 150 memory boxes. The development of the boxes is accompanied by therapy and support. 93% of participants have said this has been instrumental in opening-up dialogue and has had a very beneficial impact. Canteen has plans to leverage this success and develop similar bags for hospital cancer patients.
A very insightful presentation. Rotary gained knowledge into the impact of cancer on families and how Canteen is providing valuable support to the Community.
End Polio Now stage play.
Please support Rotary in the fight against polio. The below link will guide you to tickets for the play on Tuesday October 28. If you can't attend a donation would be much appreciated.
Announcements and Reminders
The Lane Cove Fair is October 12. We are looking for volunteers. Please contact Mark.
Crows Nest Fair is October 19.
Mary's House Walk is October 26, Six clubs (including us) will be running a BQQ prior to Mary’s House Walk.
End Polio Now live stage play is on Tuesday Oct 28th. at the Zenith Centre.
Giving night is December 15, 2025
The District Governor is planning a picnic for February 1, 2026 at Fagan Park, Carrs Road.
Intl Women's Day Rotary District 9685 Educational Scholarship Scheme — March 8, 2026.
District Conference March 20/21st 2026
Reminders:
Club fees are due
RYLA applications have kicked off
From the DG: Be aware of Club Runner SPAM. The DG has received calls and emails from members that they have received emails from her and Russell Zimmerman requesting help. Please do not respond to these emails. They are scams, so delete them immediately. Please do not respond.
Please Support our DG Partner Project – Mental Health PhD Scholarship in support of vital research into mental illness in children aged 0–12 years.
