Rotary Melbourne's 3rd Meeting of this Rotary year and our 5,041st all time Club meeting, in its one 104th year reminding us of Rotary Melbourne’s commitment over many years to support the Melbourne based, self-funding charity – Very Special Kids.
Meeting MC was Past President Peter Dakin who opened the meeting reflecting engagement with Very Special Kids over many years. The reflection was delivered by Ruth Carlos Martinez and is published in full later in this bulletin and President Catherine led the loyal toast.
After the meal break President Catherine welcomed members, visiting Rotarians and guests to the meeting. Details are included later in this Bulletin.
Past President Reg Smith then came to the podium for one last reminder that bookings for the 3rd Annual Environment Sustainability luncheon on 24 July that bookings closed on 18 July. For those planning to attend, details of the Fundraiser raffle prizes are dominated by organic and bio-dynamic wines and you can view by clicking HERE.
Returning to the podium President Catherine reminded members of the Annual visit to the Winter masterpieces booked for Friday 9 August which includes an introductory lecture before viewing the exhibition. Details and access to bookings are included later in this bulletin.
In concluding general business, President Catherine highlighted that club Member Malcolm Simpson would be celebrating his 51st anniversary since joining the Club. Members joined in warm congratulations and Malcolm received a pair of 50 year a member socks in recognition.
Catherine then invited Philip Endersbee to come to the podium s Chair to introduce guest speaker Michael Wasley, CEO of Very Special Kids.
Michael spoke about the history, mission, and future plans of Very Special Kids (VSK), an organization supporting families with children who have life-limiting conditions.
Michael outlined the long-standing relationship between VSK and the Rotary Club of Melbourne, the variety of services provided including clinical respite, counselling, and end-of-life care, and the development of Australia's first children's hospice by Sister Margaret Noon.
He highlighted the challenges faced by families and how VSK aims to provide holistic support, including their new state-of-the-art hospice. Michael's address ended with the usual Q&A.
In closing the meeting Past President Philip thanked Michael for addressing the meeting and presented the usual token gift.
You can view Michael's address by Clicking here. The video of the full meeting is viewable here.
