Alexandra Rotary rolled out the red carpet for District 9999 Governor Jan Boustead and her husband David when they visited us on Tuesday September 6. It is a huge undertaking for the new Governor of the new District 9999 to get around all 64 clubs in Te Wai Pounamu and show her face but I have no doubt she will get it done. She is a resourceful and capable lady and gave us an outline of her vision and goals for this new District (see Jan's picture below right).

 

In 1998 she joined Pahiatua Rotary Club, serving as President 2002–3. After relocating to Christchurch she joined Ferrymead Club serving as President 2011–12. Her involvement in district leadership includes District Training 2014–19, and Assistant Governor in Christchurch 2017-20. In 2019 she transferred to Lincoln Rotary Club.

 

Jan comes from a farming background, as a child spending time with her parents at Telford Farm in Balclutha – now part of the Southern Institute of Technology – and Dairy farming in the Wairarapa. Her current work outside of Rotary is a full time position as Capability Facilitator with National Library – working with schools in the greater Canterbury region around the development of their school libraries, and providing training both face to face and online around digital literacy and reading engagement.

 

 The District Governor's Breast Plate (Kouma)

The District 9999 Transition Management Team gave a lot of thought to creating a District Governor’s ‘chain’ that was relevant and represented our new District 9999. As a result, a Breast Plate carved from West Coast Pounamu was created. The Breast Plate is housed in a handcrafted box made of Southland Beech (pictures below).

 

Combining the Pounamu and the Southland Beech symbolises the bringing of the districts together. The Pounamu comes from Rotary District 9970 and the Beech comes from Rotary District 9980.

 

The koru represents the opening of new shoots of the fern plant, a symbol of growth, harmony, and new beginnings.

          

The sunflower has long held a meaningful place in the hearts of many Ukrainians as the national flower. But since Russia invaded their country, the plant has become a global symbol of resistance, unity and hope (picture below right).

Support President Gordon’s initiative and for $10.00 you can buy a packet of seeds and grow a plant or two – or five. You can even harvest the seeds and throw them in your salads. Put some pressure on your friends to buy a packet as well – all the proceeds are going to the Ukraine Appeal. There was even discussion at this week’s meeting around running a competition for the biggest bloom. Owen Philip reckons he can grow a better Sunflower than he managed with his pumpkin.

 

It is with sadness that we acknowledge the very recent passing of: -

The club’s condolences and thoughts are with the families of these two ladies.

 

A message from DG Jan Boustead on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

 

Rotary District 9999 joins New Zealand and the Commonwealth in mourning the loss of our beloved Queen Elizabeth II, and our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family at this sad time.

 

Her Majesty dedicated a lifetime of service to public service and is an example to us all.  She provided a supportive and steady presence to New Zealanders over the time of her reign. She will be missed.

 

 

Andrew’s request is for Alex Rotary to: -

 

(a) underwrite the financial cost of the event (less than $2000)

(b) take the lead in the organization and management of the event

 

This is the opportunity for this club to take over an event, initiated by Andrew, that is proving such a success in the community, and ensure it continues to grow and provide some Xmas cheer to those who are less fortunate. The Alexandra Rotary “Christmas is for Everyone” Lunch sounds like a great Community project. The Board gave it’s OK for this and we need to discuss it at the next club meeting and find a member(s) willing to take the lead and make this happen.

 

 

I have booked Ferris Road Brewery for a Pint, Pinot and Pizza night for Tuesday the 4th of October at 5.30pm. We will make this a partners night as well. 

 

Just a reminder about the Lancaster movie at the Central Cinema on Tuesday the 18th of October. I have 20 tickets left so please if you want to attend contact me by Sunday at the latest.

 

John Whitaker

Rotary Charity Dinner reminder

The Rotary Charity Dinner and Auction is on again - this year Saturday the 19th of November at the popular Orchard Garden. (This is likely to be the last hurrah of the Orchard Garden as we know it as Dale and Wendy have sold the property). 

This year’s speaker is Matt Chisholm, well known television reporter and celebrity host, author and now Central Otago farmer. Matt will talk on his life as detailed in his autobiography, ‘Imposter’. It will be an entertaining and emotional talk as he shares his own life’s highs and lows. 

We are privileged to have someone of Matt’s caliber to talk to us.  

Given the timing of the event we hope that the evening appeals again as a Christmas function. 

The format is dinner and drinks, the guest speaker and then the charity auction with a silent auction running in the background. 

The funds raised will go the Otago Rescue Helicopter Trust, they provide a magnificent service to the community of Central Otago. (Last year the funds raised went to the longer-term replacement of the Central Otago Health Shuttle). 

John (convenor)