The day started early for me at Eastern Beach. The temperature was a brisk 6 degrees, the tide was in, the sun was rising over Waiheke Island and the sea was flat calm. The start of a beautiful day! It was so good that making a noise might break the spell. However it was a working day so I had to get on with my job. As you know while it was sunny the day remained cool and it got cooler (cold even) when the sun set. By the time we arrived at the Coastguard base at Howick Beach it was decidedly chilly.
Eighteen brave souls from our Club suitable dressed with lifejackets received a safety briefing and climbed aboard (on dry land!), the tractor backed us into the sea and we were treated to an exhilarating ride. Who knew the boat was capable of 40 knots (reassuring if we ever need their help in a hurry)? We went as far as Musick Point under a glorious full moon. The lights of Howick to Eastern Beach, the lights at MacLean's College playing fields (rugby training would have been very chilly) right across to Gulf Harbour made it special.
We had a great trip followed by social time between 25 Rotarians and guests and 20 Coastguard members where they wined and dined us. It is a great partnership between both clubs, long may it continue.
The night was made even more memorable because John Osborne joined us. It was great to see him looking so well and able to handle the stairs after such major back surgery. I have to say it was a rather drastic way to lose weight John! John assisted by Colin Monk and their team have been outstanding running the Howick Fun Walk and Run again this year. As a result the Rotary Club of Howick was able to make a donation of $6,000 to the coastguard and it was appropriate that John did the honours on behalf of us all. A big thanks to all involved in the Fun Run and our visit to Howick Coastguard.
Friday 1st June - Don’t forget to come along and support Marie's fundraising efforts to pay for an ERK (Emergency Response Kit) 7pm at Howick Bowling Club $15 per head entry bring friends, family etc and make up a group. a fun night for all!
Tuesday we have committee meetings and the following week Police Awards - see Keyway and website
www.hopwickrotary.org.nz
Thought for the week
Enjoy what you are doing
or find something that you enjoy.
Have a great week
Gavin