It was my pleasure to stand in again for President Malcolm who was absent completing a long-planned road trip with his family. A time for them to share memories and begin the process of healing.
I was delighted to welcome Ann Nicholls and Heather Savory, Sheanagh and Steve Knowles and of course our two special guests Zoe Dixon and Harry Gan, the two year 13 students from Howick College nominated by our club to attend the annual Rotary National Science and Technology Forum held in conjunction with AUT University, Massey University and The University of Auckland over the recent summer break.
It was so interesting to hear their story of life on campus so to speak, as they spent 14 days with over 160 like minded students taking the opportunity to be exposed to the more recent developments in the fields of Science, Maths and Technology.
Both Zoe and Harry had wide ranging expectations and perceptions of what the Forum might look like. Both obviously had an interest in the sciences and technology but that was fairly non specific or focussed. The Forum provided the catalyst to help them better appreciate what their main interests are.
Their timetable was structured and, at times, quite arduous, including academic lectures, forums, technical visits including HERA and The Liggins Institute, workshops and motivational speakers including Nano Girl.
They also experienced recreational activities and team building exercises including opportunities for groups to work together to share ideas, explore different theories and opinions and find solutions and outcomes.
The experience helped them get a better understanding of what it is really like to be a uni student. To understand the way universities work , the halls of residences, under and post grad opportunities.
Both Zoe and Harry gained so much from the experience and expressed their appreciation and gratitude to the club for the opportunity.
John Richardson paid tribute to John Sanders who is doing the big shift to his new apartment in Hudsonville, and while we won t see as much of John he is remaining a members and will maintain regular contact with John R continuing to support the financial side of the club. Hopefully we will see John from time to time at various functions. All the very best John.
Colin Monk gave an update on the Fun Walk Run. Another very successful event, with 500+ participants and over 5k to add to the contribution to Coastguard.
Sergeant Steve managed to find some pretty flimsy excuses for fines , but all with good grace and humour !!!
I trust you have all enjoyed the Easter break with not too much over indulgence in things chocolate!!
Nga mihi Nui
Madeleine East MNZM
