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"LOST PERTH"

11/11/2018

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​Attadale Rotary Club President Ian Pittaway had great pleasure in welcoming the Guest Speaker Warren Duffy and a very large number of guests to the meeting on November 5 at Tompkins on Swan. Chairman Mick Donnes introduced Warren who took everyone on a delightful trip down memory lane. He rekindled memories of years gone by and had everyone enjoying the experience. Warren explained that before writing the books he established the Facebook page 'Lost Perth'. It was dedicated to preserving photos and memories of the good old days in Perth. He wanted to unearth Perth's history to save it for the future. He started chatting to people, listening to their stories, collecting their old photos, and it went from there. He posted photos, films, stories, memories and they all touched a nerve. The site is a collection of old images and stories of Perth, focusing on the way things used to be and the old buildings and businesses that have disappeared, and it captured Perth's imagination. Warren attributes the site's success to people's fond memories of the 'good old days'! 
He wanted to put those memories and stories in print, so they'll have a place in history forever.

The books 'Lost Perth', Volumes 1 and 2 are picture-driven with images that follow the history of Perth, Western Australia and bringing back wonderful memories of times gone by. There are old family photos moving through the decades and the Great War, roaring twenties, the great depression, World War 11, the booming fifties with their hooped skirts and perfectly coiffed hair and the swinging sixties, seventies and eighties. 

Warren showed some film of many of the tv ads we all came to love (or hate) such as 'I Love Aeroplane Jelly' (still going around in my head each day), 'I'm Louis the Fly', 'Luigi Sava Da Money' as well as 'It takes two hands to handle a whopper' etc. We also enjoyed seeing some of the icecream delights we all grew up with.

Thank you Warren for starting the wonderful Facebook site and for the Lost Perth books to remind us all of some wonderful times we all had in days gone by.

Pictured are Chairman Mick Donnes, Attadale Rotary Club President Ian Pittaway and the Guest Speaker Warren Duffy. Pictures also show the 'Lost Perth' book Volume 1, Trams in the City, Lights on the Old Swan Brewery and the beautiful interior of the Ambassadors Theatre. Thank you also to Colin McCulloch for bringing along some of his memorabilia to display on the night. 
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It was a night to reminisce enjoyed by members and all their guests.
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True Blue Dreaming

5/11/2018

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​Francis Winfield was the Guest Speaker at the Attadale Rotary meeting held at Tompkins on Swan last Monday, 29 October. Francis spoke about 'True Blue Dreaming' which originated as a response to alarming rates of youth suicide and poor educational outcomes among young people in rural and remote Australian communities. It is a unique, holistic, youth mentoring and community development program which aims to inspire and build capacity in 11-18 year olds living in regional and remote areas, across Western Australia. The official launch of the True-Blue Dreaming Youth Mentoring Project took place at Wyalkatchem District High School on 27th June 2004. Although Wyalkatchem remains the flagship program, since 2004 True Blue Dreaming has grown and expanded significantly. They now provide youth mentoring and support services in eight locations across rural and regional WA, stretching from Bruce Rock in the Wheatbelt to as far north as Halls Creek in the Kimberley and many destinations in between.
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The mentors typically are University students often from a rural background. The mentoring programs are based on a 12 month contract between participants. Mentoring of young students has been shown to raise school attendance and completion, support transition from school to further training and employment and to help young people to feel better connected to their school and their peers and generally raise their self-esteem.

True Blue Dreaming is a registered not for profit charity and has received financial support from organisations such as the Forrest Foundation,Lottery West, Rio Tinto and the Rotary Club of Applecross.
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Francis Winfield is pictured with Attadale Rotary President Ian Pittaway and Rotarian Martin Houchin.




​Also speaking at the Rotary Club of Attadale on Monday, 29 October, was Louise Dinnie.  Louise is a Member of the Student Emerging Leaders Group- (MSEL). 

Louise reminded Rotary members of the workshops they ran with the students from Melville Senior High School. These workshops included the following:  Resume writing; Interpersonal skills and networking; as well as Interview skills.  Panel presentations from higher education institutions and professionals from industries the students were interested in.  The team found that engaging with students in smaller groups was easier and they were able to develop a better rapport with them.  The overall feedback was generally positive from the students.  The students indicated that they could use the workshops more before they select their ATAR courses for Years 11 and 12.
Rotarian Bev Moffat is pictured with Louise Dinnie.
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Also pictured are two happy Attadale Rotarians Winston Marsh and Greg James who were recently presented with their Birthday cupcakes by Club President Ian Pittaway.
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52,000Km Bicycle Ride Around the Planet

27/10/2018

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On Monday, October 22, members and friends of the Rotary Club of Attadale were inspired listening to guest speaker Jeremy Scott as he spoke about his '52,000KM Bicycle Ride Around the Planet'.

As a toddler, Jeremy had a huge hole in his aorta valve that cruelly denied him the opportunity to live the life of a normal healthy child. At just four years of age Jeremy underwent Open Heart Surgery at the hands of renowned surgeon Sir Brian Barratt-Boyes.

Thirty-four years later with practically no experience or training, Jeremy took the unbelievably courageous plunge and began a 2 ½ year, 51,916km solo bicycle ride that would see him cycle through 29 countries from London to New Zealand.

While separate encounters with the Iranian and Filipino Mafia had Jeremy fearing for his life, it was the beautiful acts of kindness offered by strangers throughout the world that will forever warm his heart.

Through his own incredible experiences, Jeremy highlights what is possible in life with a positive mindset, a bit of determination and the courage to take that first step.

At the completion of that life changing journey, Jeremy wrote his first book ‘The Long Road from a Broken Heart’. It is not only a story about life in the saddle, it is a story about the beautiful side of humanity and an example of what someone can achieve if they believe in themselves and have the courage to chase their dreams.  Ten percent of the RRP on each book sold will be donated to the New Zealand, Australian or British Heart Foundations.
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​This phenomenal journey was made possible thanks to the open-heart surgery which saved his life as a child.

Jeremy is a recipient of the Australian Heart Foundation ‘Heart Hero Award’, an Ambassador for Waterline Challenge, and has raised over $50,000 for the New Zealand, Australian and British Heart Foundations. He continues to support these charities through speaking engagements and book sales and now dedicates his life to inspire others.
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R. U. O. K.

22/10/2018

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Attadale Rotary were thrilled to have the Rotary District 9465 Membership Director John Stockbridge attend their meeting on Monday Oct 15th Tompkins on Swan. John presented lots of useful information and interesting ideas in his talk on Social Media and Business Networking. He also showed a video on social media statistics that had prompted him to take direct action by presenting to business networking groups.

Club President Ian Pittaway also had great pleasure in welcoming Andrea Poynton, Jacquie Pittaway and from Applecross Rotary Kenn Williams to the meeting. 

As the past week had focussed on 'Lifting the Lid' on mental health, members wore a hat to the meeting and donated to the Australian Rotary Health fund to be used for mental health research. 

Ian shared some thoughts with those present:
Four simple letters, R U O K but how often do we ask it? Suicide is the leading cause of death in children from the young age of 5 to 17. Peel Football club have now started their own 'Welfare and Education' program. Too late to save those lost, but will no doubt help others. He shared many other sad stories and stated that we can all do something as simple as calling a friend just to ask RUOK.  It may help and it can do no harm, but we should all be aware of how much it can help even in the smallest way.

Pictured at the meeting are John Stockbridge with Carole Maxwell and Club President Ian Pittaway, Garth Curran with Selwyn Castles, James Doogue and Rodney Rate. Colin McCulloch (artistically clever and highlighting the 'Lift the Lid' cause) is with his lovely wife Gail McCulloch & Jacquie & Ian Pittaway.

Others enjoying the fellowship on the evening included Neil & Giovanna McKay with Kenn Williams & Jim Calcei, Andrea Poynton pictured with John Sharp & Carole Maxwell, Bob Rodgers with Winston Marsh & Greg James.  Colin McCulloch and Jim Calcei are pictured donating.
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It was a great night.
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VINCENT'S PROJECT

8/10/2018

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​​On Monday Oct 8 Carole Maxwell was delighted to introduce the Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club of Attadale meeting young Vincent Pettinicchio. Vincent explained that in 2013 at only seven years of age he founded his charity - 'Vincent's Project for the Homeless'.

He got the idea for his project after coming home one day, upset from being bullied. He was sad and crying so his Mum told him to think of doing something nice for someone else. Vincent knew who he wanted to help. He had witnessed the homelessness crisis in WA while going on walks with his grandparents who live near Perth.

Vincent thought about what would be useful to a person living on the streets, to make their life more comfortable and came up with a careful list.

These days each of Vincent's packages are worth $66 and include a pillow and pillowcase, towel and facewasher, blanket, toothbrush and toothbrush container, toothpaste, soap and soap container, deodorant, hairbrush, razors and shaving cream, shampoo, a pack of tissues, a bottle of water, poncho, notepad and pen. The female bags also include feminine hygiene items. Hundreds of students and volunteers help pack the items into a duffle bag and the finishing touch is a tag with a simple note - 'Just to let you know that someone cares', written by school children Vincent has enlisted to help. Over the years Vincent's Project have filled 5615 bags that are in high demand from charities such as St Vincent de Paul and the Red Cross and have also been requested by the Department of Community Services.

Mrs Pettinicchio said while each year her son's project had grown beyond expectations, this year had been a bit more of a struggle because Vincent had fallen ill with chronic fatigue syndrome. Normally he goes out every weekend and fundraises but this year he just hasn't been able to do it as much she said. 

Without his family, especially his parents, Vincent said his project would not be what it is today. Beyond all the help he receives, Vincent said his Mum's role is essential. She gives up lots of weekends to take him places to speak, helps with the delivery and collection of items and co-ordinates the different schools for him, orders the stock and budgets the spending. Vincent's Mum Pina Pettinicchio admits it isn't always easy. Running a household, working two jobs and helping Vincent manage his project sometimes does not leave enough time for her to do the other things she needs to.

Vincent has deservedly been given many awards for his great work. In 2016 he was the youngest recipient of a Rotary Paul Harris Fellowship by the Rotary Club of Hillarys. Vincent has not only made a huge personal difference in the community, but is also a role model and inspiration for other children and young people showing what can be achieved with commitment and compassion.

Today Vincent knows 'That he can achieve his dreams if he works hard and perseveres' and that his Mum was right that 'Helping others does make you feel good about yourself'.

The Members and guests of the Rotary Club of Attadale were very impressed with Vincent, his Mum and the amazing and inspirational Project they work on and thanked them both for coming and speaking at the meeting. Everyone wishes Vincent a good recovery from his current Chronic Fatigue condition.

Club President Ian Pittaway was delighted to present Vincent with a cheque for $250 for his Project from the Rotary Club of Attadale and thanked those who had brought along some items for Vincent's project as well.

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If you would like to learn more about Vincent's project for the Homeless go to
https://www.facebook.com/vincentsprojectforthehomeless/

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Middle East Adventures

16/9/2018

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At the meeting of the Rotary Club of Attadale on September 10 President Ian Pittaway was delighted to welcome Club member James Doogue as the Guest Speaker for the evening and to welcome James' wife Shelly and sons Jacob and Jordan and friend Alice Walsh as well as guests Anne Lewkowski and Graeme Wishart. He was also pleased to welcome back Patricia Robertson who had returned from her Overseas holiday and to present Gillian Baker with her 'Birthday Cup-Cake'.

James spoke to the meeting about his wonderful 'Adventures in the Middle East'.  He visited a number of different countries in the area and had a range of amazing experiences. He flew over a huge refugee camp and said that Jordan receives hundreds of millions of dollars from the United Nations to house the refugees they take in. The camps are often near cities so that the refugees can try and find work. He saw many wind turbine farms in his travels and about 40% of the turbines were broken. They are very hard to maintain. In contrast to the modern inventions he was surrounded by Bedouins that live in tents and have goats and camels.

James visited Petra, the famous archaeological site in Jordan's southwestern desert. It is a vast, unique, carved city that is accessed via a narrow canyon called Al Siq and it contains tombs and temples carved into pink sandstone cliffs, earning its nickname, 'the Rose City'. Its most famous structure is 45m high 'Al Khazneh', a temple with an ornate, Greek-style facade and known as The Treasury.​
​James also shared his experiences in Egypt, such as visiting the pyramids, sailing down the Nile in a felucca, seeing Garbage City in Cairo and going to the biggest Christian Cave Church. He spoke about new homes and buildings in Israel now by law have to have a blast-proof room including air filters in case of gas attacks. He certainly saw and experienced a wide range of different cultures and landscapes.
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Thanks to James for a most interesting talk.

Pictured are Shelly & James Doogue with Alice Walsh, Jacob and Jordan Doogue.   Also enjoying the evening were Robin Hamilton and Graeme Wishart pictured with James and Gillian Baker with her Birthday cupcake.
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Petra Pics as follows:

Al Siq Narrow walkway through rock walls, Al-Khazneh Temple, Nabataeans, Mausoleum and Tomb, Ad Deir Monastery, Nabataeans, temple and tomb.
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Oh What a Night

9/9/2018

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WHAT A FUN NIGHT it was on Monday September 3 when the Rotary Club of Attadale President Ian Pittaway had great delight in welcoming the Rotary District 9465 Governor Robyn Yates and the Assistant Governor Lesley Coombs to the meetiung along with many partners and Guest Monika Kaur.

DG Robyn told members that Rotary International is always there to support Rotary Clubs. Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and act to create lasting change - across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves. . From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world and we stay committed to the end. Rotary is made up of three parts: our clubs, Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation. Together, we work to make lasting change in our communities and around the world.

Robyn also shared with everyone a little about her life growing up. She saw her parents always helping others in need and from a young age Robyn learnt about giving without expecting anything in return. She learnt that the smallest act of kindness can change someone's day for the better. Joining Rotary has allowed her to continue to help others in need. Robyn congratulated the Attadale club on the interesting, unique projects and initiatives that are being undertaken. Robyn also spoke about the Conference that will be held in the lovely town of Collie in March next year. We can't wait!

After all the formalities were over Greg James (acting as a Ringmaster for the night) in true theatrical style gave a great introduction to a Magic challenge between MARTIN THE MAGICIAN and COLIN THE CONJURER. Greg's costuming and introduction were superb. 

Martin needed the assistance of District Governor Robyn and Assistant Governor Lesley Coombs along with Rotarian Betty Bright and of course a 'bit of string'.

Then Colin, looking the part in his magician's cape had the DG sign a coin which he placed under the cup on the table. Of course with the help of some magic words and a wave of his wand the coin moved back and forwards. Members had to then vote for the most impressive act by placing a coin in a specially constructed voting box. Everyone enjoyed the fantastic showmanship, wit, humour and enormous talent of these members. It was good to see so many laughing and crying at the same time and the magical acts will be remembered and talked about for a long time. All the coins had slid down one end of the voting box, so depending which way the box was held, it was never proved which of the magicians actually won.

A BIG THANK YOU to Martin Houchin & Colin McCulloch.

Pictured is President Ian Pittaway with District 9465 Governor Robyn Yates with the Rotary Balloons, Also pictured is Past President Colin McCulloch and DG Robyn Yates on presentation of an Honorary Membership to a very thrilled Jacquie Pittaway. Robyn is also pictured with Rotary members Rodney Rate, Gail McCulloch & Colin McCulloch with her beautifully presented Shoebox for the Club's Love in a Shoebox project. Entertainment Ringmaster Greg James looking very dapper, Martin the Magician and Colin the Conjurer and the winner's coin box.
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Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children

3/9/2018

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Giovanna McKay is a committee member of Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC) and was very pleased to introduce Wilma McBain as Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club of Attadale meeting at Tompkins on Swan on Monday August 27.

Wilma trained as a nurse at Royal Perth Hospital and in 1988 she started work at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children as the coordinator of the Cleft Lip and Palate Unit, the only one of its kind in WA. She became the overall coordinator of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit in 1993 and in 2006 she became the Secretary of the Australasian Cleft Lip and Palate Association. In 2008 Wilma was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for service to the community through the care and support of children requiring craniofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. 

ROMAC commenced in March 1988 out of the actions of an Australian Rotarian who,with a group of surgeons, visited Lambasa in Fiji. They found the child mortality rate as high as 25% in some places and quickly identified that lack of medical and surgical facilities and skills for children of the island nations in Oceania, was a major cause. During the next four years, eight children were brought to Australia for major, often lifesaving, surgery. Soon 20 Australian Rotary Clubs were caught up in the success of each case and assisted in various ways. ROMAC established five regions representing clubs in the west, east, south, north and centre of the country. A New Zealand region was formally established in 2004. First and foremost ROMAC is quite a rare not-for-profit humanitarian organisation being run entirely with volunteers - no paid staff, no leased offices and the small expenses are recovered from investments.
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Rotarians volunteer their time and expertise to run this Rotary program that encompasses all the Districts of Australia and New Zealand, assisted by many eminent surgeons, who generously donate their time for the treatment of the patients. They need more financial assistance. To help, Rotarians and Rotary Clubs can:-
  • Request your clubs International Committee to allocate $2,000 each year to ROMAC - it is not a big amount but if every Club donated that each year ROMAC would be able to 'Give Life' to another 50 children every year!
  • Fundraise through Club activities like a Trivia Night - ROMAC can supply the format, questions and support which will not only add a great social day or evening to your Club's social calendar, but everyone participating has the joy of helping 'Give Life' to a child who would otherwise have no hope.
Individuals can also donate and benefit from their tax-deductible status.

Thank you to Wilma McBain for sharing the wonderful work done by all those involved in (ROMAC) - ROTARY OCEANIA MEDICAL AID FOR CHILDREN.

Pictured is the Attadale Rotary President Ian Pittaway with Wilma McBain and Giovanna McKay.

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Our very own 'Batman'

27/8/2018

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The Rotary Club of Attadale's very own 'Batman', Past President Colin McCulloch has recently completed the allocation and distribution of the one hundred subsidized microbat roosting boxes to the residents of the City of Melville, with just a few allocated boxes awaiting collection. Boxes are now being presented to schools and Booragoon Primary School has recently been given two and Colin and Gail McCulloch attended the Palmyra Primary School last Friday and presented them with two boxes. The incredible microbats will be really enjoying this coming summer as will the residents of the City of Melville who will be able to enjoy the outdoors more with a greatly reduced number of mosquitoes in the area. Colin is pictured after presenting a Bat Box to a Palmyra Primary School student.
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A different kind of meeting

20/8/2018

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Members and partners of The Rotary Club of Attadale were welcomed by President Ian Pittaway to a very different meeting on Monday August 13.  It was held at St Catherine's College, The University of Western Australia.  After a really delicious meal was served, the Chairman and organiser of the evening Rodney Rate was delighted to proudly introduce his long time friend Fiona Crowe, who he met when his wife Yvonne Rate was Head of St Catherine's College from 1993 to 2003 and Fiona was Dean of Students.

​Fiona has been Head of College since 2004.  Fiona gave us a very informative talk about the College over the years.  She also took us all on a interesting tour of the College and we were all impressed with the very high standard of student accommodation and were surprised to learn that they let out rooms and apartments to the public.  We were also privileged to hear two students speak about its flagship innovation program, Bloom. (Bloom.org.au), where students of the College and young people from across all five universities and outside of tertiary education are encouraged to embrace thinking about their future in a different way. Bloom runs workshops, seminars and social events aimed at supporting young people to start something - to take an idea, prototype or business along the entrepreneurial journey of learning, failure, more learning and success in its many forms. Over 50 young entrepreneurs work from Bloom and thousands of students participate in seminars and workshops.

St Catherine's also runs a dedicated indigenous access program, Dandjoo Darbalung, that has a proven track record in improving the retention rate and educational outcomes of indigenous students undertaking higher education.

It was a fantastic night with time as well for great fellowship.
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Pictured are some of the people who enjoyed the evening.
Neil McKay receiving his Birthday muffin from President Ian, Carole Maxwell& David, President Ian and Jacquie Pittaway, Giovanna and Neil McKay, Rod with Rachel & Simon Rate, Gill & Robin Hamilton, Mal & Elaine Bennettand Head of St Catherine's College Fiona Crowe is pictured with Rodney Rate
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August 6 meeting

10/8/2018

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Another great meeting was held at Tompkins on Swan by the Rotary Club of Attadale on Monday August 6. Club President Ian Pittaway welcomed the Guest Speaker for the evening Anne Cowie and was pleased to welcome back from their holidays club members Colin McCulloch and Gail McCulloch. Ian also had great delight in presenting Gail with the 'Best Bulletin Award' for Rotary District 9465. Gail was very grateful for the support of her husband Colin, mainly for the technical advice and help. Club members will look forward to another great year of Bulletins. 
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Ian also thanked Mick Donnes for picking up 250 blankets from South Guildford. These had been allocated to the Attadale Club as part of the deal Rotary District 9455 had done with Qantas to receive blankets and doonas for Rotary to distribute to Charities. He also thanked Kerry Parsons for providing the storage before they are distributed to the club's various charities including St Patrick's Community Service in Fremantle and the Salvation Army.
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Mick Donnes
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Greg James
​Ian also announced that a great group of Attadale Club Rotarians Mick Donnes, Greg James, Martin Houchin, Colin McCulloch and Rodney Ratewill make up a Fines Masters Group at Club Meetings. They will take turns performing this duty and at Monday's meeting Greg James made it a very entertaining fines session with lots of wit and humour.

July 30 meeting 
"An investment in the youth's future is an investment in our future".

​Rotary Club of Attadale President Ian Pittaway welcomed the Guest Speaker Carol Shannon and guest George Carter to the meeting at Tompkins on Swan on Monday night July 30 and had great delight in presenting the Chairman for the evening George Lewkowski with a candlelit birthday cupcake.

Carol Shannon is the Chief Executive Officer of Leeuwin Foundation which is a trusted not-for-profit organisation based in Fremantle. Since 1986 they have welcomed more than 40,000 young people onboard the STS Leeuwin 11.The Leeuwin Foundation is funded through a combination of grants, corporate sponsorships and donations by organisations and the general public. Rotary clubs across Western Australia have been extraordinary sponsors over the years, regularly topping up people's voyage fares. Their primary program is the Youth Explorer Voyages, a week-long opportunity designed for young people aged from 14 to 25 (although older participants with a sense of adventure can also apply) to sharpen their work-ready skills and enhance skills in communication, leadership and collaboration.

Participants are inspired and given opportunities to try completely new things. They are not taught to sail-- the aim is giving and receiving instructions, listening, taking challenges, accountability and responsibility. They do, however, make sure everyone understands how ships work - safety instructions, emergency drills, ship hierarchy, watching out for their mates, and that it's okay to feel sick. Learning to step out of their comfort zone and work together gives them a sense of achievement. Next year, their Future Connect voyage will have 20 Western Australians from a refugee background and 20 Western Australian youth raised in WA to come together through adventure, exploration and discovery that will encourage greater community connections and understanding. There are so many challenges facing young people these days and giving them opportunities to build confidence, courage, resilience personal development and leadership will provide key life skills that they will take into their studies, careers and community. 
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Thank you Carol for enlightening all present to the wonderful work done by the Leeuwin Foundation.  Very inspirational.
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"An investment in the youth's future is an investment in our future".
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Hands Up 4 Kids

25/7/2018

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PictureCarole Maxwell, Jan P, Attadale President Ian, and Jan A
Monday, 23 July

​Seven years ago, Jan Pedersen (right) decided she was concerned about children having difficulty with their reading and recognized that the best way to teach children at an early age was for someone to go in and help them.  She spread the word in the South West and later in the Metropolitan area.

Fast forward:  Hands Up 4 Kids is a community-based, student assistance program for primary schools to make a tangible contribution towards improved reading abilities for students selected as needing this help. 
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To address literacy barriers, Regional Coordinator Jan Akaczonek (second from left) expressed the need for more volunteers who can work a minimum of one hour a week - which is easy to find even in a very busy schedule.   Volunteers are placed under the direction of partnering schools and assigned to one teacher/classroom throughout the whole year which gives them the chance to develop a strong relationship with the children.  No training is needed as it’s really all about listening to the children, supporting and helping them break down words and, of course, comprehension comes into it as well. 
 
Volunteers are allowed to come and go as needed (e.g. family appointments/holidays) and HU4K try to keep in close contact with them.  Volunteers are, understandably, insisted upon to have a Working with Children Card, provide referees, abide by HU4K’s non-negotiable code of conduct, and sign a confidentiality agreement. 
 
Clearly, this is not something that Jan P and Jan A do for instant gratification.  They are here to try and help not just the community now, but the future community as well, and as an organisation, they act, belong, and commit to give children a better chance to achieve their life goals. 

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The business world as a force for good

18/7/2018

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On Monday night, July 9, President Ian had great pleasure welcoming guests Kendall Clifton-Short and Sabra Sayed.
 
Guest speaker Kendall talked about commodity crises, finance resource, situations we’ve never seen before, and what’s happening in the global scale.  Organisations are now being asked to be responsible for the things they have never been asked to be responsible for in the past.  And if we want to understand how we could help businesses navigate these changes, we really need to look at what’s going on, and the first thing to look at is ‘mindset’.  Process comes next, followed by Design, Packaging, and Waste.
 
A company, over a number of years, have transported their plants into zero waste facilities.  Not only are they able to profit from the product that they make, but they also made a boost in that what used to be a cost is now a profit.
 
So,  how can we make money by doing good, and  how can we use businesses to take the challenges that we are facing as a society and turn them into opportunities?   There’s lots of avenues and pathways to explore the viability of partnering with other organisations, building a relationship, and doing the right thing.  The key to doing any of this is great leadership.  We need leaders who will:  ask the tough questions, look for opportunities, and make hard decisions.  When we are willing to ask questions and reshape the way we think, connect and do business, we ultimately drive a systems-change and remould the business world as a force for good.
 
Pictured here are Kendall, Gillian and Fred, Greg, Sabra and Carol, and Robin and Bev with their birthday cupcakes, presented by Ian.
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Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment

16/7/2018

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The RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment) camp in September is fast approaching!

If you know someone who is 14-17 years of age who is
  • Wanting an opportunity to develop and challenge themselves
  • Looking to develop their self-esteem and confidence
  • Interested in developing skills including leadership, teamwork, communication, goal setting and problem solving
  • Wanting to build a network of young people and to make new friends
  • Excited for a weekend of fun
Then we'd love to have them attend the RYPEN camp from 21st to 23rd September 2018.

RYPEN depends on Rotary Clubs to sponsor participants, and the more participants we get the better the camp will be. We would love to welcome your applicant to the camp.

We've got an exciting and challenging program lined up for the weekend, so if you know of someone who would like to attend please get your applications in by 1st September. 

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Marcus Stafford, CEO, MSWA

12/7/2018

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PicturePresident Ian, Marcus Stafford, Celia Holdaway, Mal Bennett
As well as being an AIM awardee, Marcus Stafford has also been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in the General Division.   Marcus is a compassionate CEO and has improved the lives of people living with Multiple Sclerosis and other neurological conditions not only in Western Australia, but nationwide.  He learnt in his lifetime that leadership is flexibility and courage in an uncertain environment, and that the only things that stops CEOs today from making good, confident decisions is lack of courage.  He said that it should all start with values, and that the values of Rotary are beyond reproach.  He believes that those same types of values should actually exist within all organizations, whether they be for profit or not-for-profit organisations – not those things that sit framed on people’s walls and no one really knows what they mean.
 
Under his guidance and leadership, MSWA has been able to extend its various services to people with MS, Motor Neurone Disease, Parkinson’s, Stroke, Huntington’s, Acquired Brain Injury, and the list goes on.  The growth in services provided within the State in the range of  different areas  is one part of what they (MSWA) do.  The second part is their research contribution which is about Three Million Dollars. The combined contributions of New South Wales, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania – when doubled – is still less than the $3M WA contributes to research.  Marcus is very proud of that leadership status, but said that they’d be delighted to give that up if somebody else wanted to step up to that.

It is a long race in finding the cause and the cure of the many neurological conditions.  It is also a long race where their staff are concerned.  Marcus reminds people regularly that the people who work in their organisation are not a commodity to be bought and/or sold on the market, and if you look after them today, they will give you the most amazing returns for the journey you want to take tomorrow.

Pictured here are club president Ian, Marcus, Celia Holdaway, and Mal Bennett, whose birthday was celebrated that night.

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District 9465 Changeover Night

10/7/2018

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Ian, Jacquie & IPDG Bruce
by Jacquie Pittaway

​At the Rotary District 9465 Changeover Night on 7th July one of the many special presentations on the night by District Governor 
Bruce Lynch was the District Newsletter Award for 2017-2018. It was awarded to the Rotary Club of Attadale and Club President Ian Pittaway was thrilled to receive the certificate on behalf of the Bulletin Editor Gail McCulloch.

Gail has published a very interesting and informative bulletin each week containing lots of Rotary news and pictures.  A very big Congratulations to Gail and Club Past President Colin McCulloch.

Pictured are Attadale President Ian Pittaway and Jacquie with Past District Governor Bruce Lynch. Bruce is also pictured with 2018-2019 District Governor Robyn Yates.
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It was a great night with lots of time for fellowship.
 
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IPDG Bruce Lynch & DG Robyn Yates
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A night to remember

30/6/2018

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Change Over Night 2018 was a really wonderful occasion.

President Colin McCulloch was delighted to welcome many guests including PDG Melodie Kevan & PDG John P Kevan, as well as past Attadale members PDG Jim Trotter and Patricia Trotter, Alan Morecombe, Keith & Pat Timmel, Trevor & Pat Leaver, Peter Field, Joan Henley and Nancy Bray.

Guests Ann Kennedy, Linda Jackson and Ross Cusack, Julie Walker & Ben Walker and Marie Ricci were also given a big welcome. Colin also welcomed all the partners. Rotarian John Sharp was very informative when proposing the Toast to Rotary International which was followed by a very interesting and knowledgeable response by PDG John P Kevan who also related a story where he was mistaken for Ian Riseley, the current Rotary International President.

Giovanna McKay was awarded the Past Presidents Award for her outstanding work. This was an extremely popular choice as Giovanna has made a wonderful new website for the Club and has helped President Colin McCulloch and all members in so many ways. Peter Field and Mike Van Trier were presented with Honorary Membership Badges for their valued contribution to Rotary over many years.Then came the surprises, President Colin McCulloch was absolutely delighted to announce three amazingly dedicated members of the Rotary Club of Attadale had received a Paul Harris Fellow with Sapphire Pin. PDG Melodie Kevan and PDG John P Kevan made the presentations to John Sharp, Rodney Rate and Ian Pittaway. Colin gave a summary of the enormous contribution they have all made to the club and Rotary over a number of years.They all continue to put Service Above Self and have helped in so many ways to make the Club what it is today. They each received a well deserved and heartfelt standing ovation on their presentation.
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President Colin McCulloch thanked all members of the Club, Office Bearers and especially the Board for their hard work and wonderful support given to him during his year as President. Colin was then delighted to congratulate the new Attadale President Ian Pittaway and helped him with the 'Chains of Office'. Ian thanked Colin for the great work he did during the year, he will definitely be a hard act to follow. Ian is looking forward to a very enjoyable year with everyone's support. Colin and all members wished Ian and Jacquie all the best for the coming year. Neil McKay did a great job proposing a Toast to Partners to which Jacquie Pittaway responded on their behalf. Jacquie also gave a lovely presentation of beautiful orchids to Gail McCulloch as wife of the outgoing President as well as an extremely hard wor Rotarian throughout the year who assisted Colin in so many ways. Gail always showed great friendship to everyone. She also has great skill with a camera and always made sure to take photos at club meetings and functions during the year.

It was indeed a very enjoyable and special evening to remember.

The Rotary Club of Attadale certainly 'Made a Difference' during the past year and for this next Rotary year 2018-2019 will definitely 'Be The Inspiration'. 
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Incoming President Ian Pittaway is pictured receiving the 'Chains of Office' from outgoing President Colin McCulloch. Also pictured is President Ian's new Board who will be giving him great assistance during the year. Paul Harris Fellow Sapphire Pin recipients Rodney Rate, John Sharp and Ian Pittaway are pictured with outgoing President Colin McCulloch and Rotary District 9465 W.A. Past Governors John P Kevan and Melodie Kevan, Giovanna McKay receiving the Past Presidents Award. Also pictured enjoying the evening were PDG Jim Trotter and Patricia, Keith & Pat Timmel, Donna & Mike Van Trier, PDG's John & Melodie Kevan and Trevor & Pat Leaver, Jacquie Pittaway and new Attadale President Ian Pittaway, Carole Maxwell and David Maxwell and Jacquie Pittaway after presentation to Gail McCulloch.it.
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Changeover Dinner

22/6/2018

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​All members, honorary members, partners and friends are invited to our CHANGE OVER DINNER To be held at Tompkins on Swan On Monday, June 25th 6.00 for 6.30pm  (Pre-Dinner Drinks and Fellowship).

The Board has subsidized the total expenses of the evening to keep the cost at just $40. Please RSVP to the Attendance Officer on 0427 020 682 or email here.

Dinner Menu



Entrée: Pumpkin and Coconut Soup


Mains (alternate drop)
  • Chicken Breast Stuffed with Apricot and Macadamia with garlic potato mash, broccolini and a tomato beurre blanc sauce
  • Spanish Style Lamb Shank with garlic potato mash and green beans
Steamed vegetables for the table


Tea and Coffee with selected cakes
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School of St Yared, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

17/6/2018

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by Gail McCulloch

At the Rotary Club of Attadale meeting on Monday, June 11, President Colin McCulloch was delighted to welcome Guest Speaker Yared Wolde as well as a large number of other guests.  The Chairman for the evening Kerry Parsons had great pleasure introducing Yared and sharing with the meeting how he and Abby had travelled to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to visit the School of St Yared and were so impressed by Yared and the whole project and wanted to help them achieve their goals.

Kerry put forward the idea to the Club to build a Rotary Charity House which was done.  The proceeds were used to obtain a Global Grant which to assist with the re-location, refurbishment and expansion of the school.   Yared explained that the school was established in 2009 with the vision of giving the best opportunities to those children who would otherwise not get to school due to extreme poverty, poor health and family circumstance.  He spoke about the process used to select the children to attend the school.

The children receive two healthy meals plus a snack at the school each day, as well as school uniforms, essential learning materials and access to extra curricular activities.  With education the plan is for these children to grow into self-sufficient young adults and become the future leaders of their community. Through education, they are planning to break the poverty cycle. Previously we have heard about Yared's childhood and his dream to help educate children.  He is to be admired for what he has and continues to achieve.

​In a wonderful gesture David Lawson, guest at the meeting and who has been helping put up the bat boxes for the Attadale Rotary Club's Microbat Project, generously donated the $300 he received for doing this to the School of St Yared.  President Colin McCulloch was delighted to present the cheque to Yared.  Also pictured enjoying the evening with Yared were Amanda, Ann-Maree and Terry Huxtable, Craig Parsons & Eileen Pedrotti Parsons, Ciara Pedrotti Parsons with Abigail Joyce Santos Parsons, Elaine Bennett, Marie Finucane, Greg Caldwell and David Lawson, Michael Feeney and Rod and Dorothy Scrutton.

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ex Western Australia Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan

26/5/2018

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by Gail McCulloch

​It was a fantastic night at the Attadale Rotary Club meeting on Monday May 21.  President Colin McCulloch was delighted to welcome members, partners and such a great crowd. It was lovely to have Club member Carole Maxwell and her husband David attend as Carole has been on extended leave and she has been greatly missed.  It was also great to see Club Honorary members and many others from other Rotary and Probus clubs as well as many of the members' guests.

The Guest Speaker for the evening who drew the interest of this great attendance was the ex Western Australia Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan.  Karl was introduced to the meeting by President Elect Ian Pittaway who gave a brief history of Karl's background. Karl was born in the UK and arrived in Western Australia in 1970.  In January 1976 Karl graduated as Dux of his WA Police Academy class.  Since then he has served in numerous roles in a wide variety of places. He was promoted to Police Commissioner in 2004 where he served until 2017.  Karl O'Callaghan has been awarded the Australian Police Medal, the National Police Service Medal, the National Medal and the Western Australia Police Medal.  In 2006 he was made a ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PAUL HARRIS FELLOW for his work with communities in Western Australia.

Karl founded Bright Blue in 2011, with the aim of improving the lives of sick children both here and overseas.  It supports work to prevent and treat childhood illnesses, particularly ones linked to issues that police often see - drug and alcohol abuse and social disadvantage. Karl spoke about his years of service giving all present a great insight into the Western Australia Police Force.  He also shared a little of his personal life.  When the last of his four children left home he and his wife, a special needs teacher, realised they could make a difference to some children, who are in poor situations through no fault of their own.  They have cared for nine foster children, including two young brothers who have become a permanent fixture.

Music is another outlet for Karl.  He sings and plays guitar and keyboard with a rock band, despite only learning to play an instrument when he was in his 40's.  He is also a very knowledgeable and popular presenter on Curtin Radio as well as an accomplished and sought after public speaker.

Karl was an absolute delight to listen to.  We were very privileged to hear him talk on a wide range of both public and personal topics.  One of the visitors to the Club commented after the meeting that "Karl O'Callaghan is a very articulate and comfortable speaker.  He does it so effortlessly, like he is just having a chat with everyone.  Karl doesn't just talk the talk, but with his fostering and his charity work he walks the walk too". 

We especially thank him for making the time to also answer questions at the end of his talk and for staying for fellowship over coffee/tea/cake. 

Karl is pictured below.

Enjoying the evening are Astrid & Richard Gell, George & Anne Lewkowski and Elaine Bennett.  Jan & John Maiorana and Natalee & David Lawson and Garth Curran. Attadale Rotary Club President Colin McCulloch (or 'Batman' as he is often known), is pictured handing over a Microbat Box to David Lawson.  David is from Lawson's Tree and Garden Solutions and helps put up the bat boxes for the Attadale Rotary Club's Micro Bat project.
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