Gloucesters’ Service Club signs get a revamp

Constructing new Service Club signs at the three entrances to Gloucester was a club project started a couple of years ago by John Read. Willing helpers Sam deWitte, Graham Stelzer, Ray Martin (and nephew Paul) John Faull, Li Wong’s fiance, David, Pete Markey, Brian Dixon, Paul Hedditch, Ernie Abeysekera, Don McLeod were helped by local Chris Maslen who bored the 6 x 1.8 metre holes. 135 bags of rapid set concrete were required. Much needed refreshments were supplied by Valda Baron, Ashleigh Hickman and Sharee Abeysekera.

signs

 

Ode to Ken , by Geoff Teece, 18th May, 2014

ODE to KEN

 

Vale thou great yeoman of Gloucester Rotary

with your infectious jolly humour

and your rollicking company.

 

No more we’ll hear that jolly laughter,

nor see that wicked, cheeky frown;

there was nothing that this world could bring

to quash your dauntless spirit down.

Never demanding, always giving

Nothing short of anything at all;

A heart as big as Phar Lap,

You’d respond to any call.

 

We’re proud of your achievements,

Of all you’ve given heretofore,

Now rest peacefully in His arms,

And there live forever more.

Geoff Teece

18th May, 2014

Support for the Philippines

There are a number of options when considering support for the disaster ravaged citizens of The Philippines:

Direct support to The Philippines

The two most effected districts have both set up Disaster Funds and contributions can be made directly to those funds. The two District Governors have taken charge of operations in this regard and will ensure that the money is spent wisely and in those areas most in need. The immediate urgent needs are food and water, closely followed by clothing and shelter.

These contributions would be made directly into the bank accounts set up for the disaster funds and would not qualify for tax deductibility.

Support through RAWCS and Village Aid

Contributions can be made to RAWCS and these contributions would be used for a whole range of activities that would align with the needs of the communities we are assisting. In many cases, RAWCS projects embrace the building of houses, schools, hospitals, etc. and these are things not generally allowed through Rotary Foundation Grant projects/

Personal contributions made to RAWCS would qualify for tax deductibility in Australia.

The Rotary Foundation / Support through a district fund

Some districts are building a ‘war chest’ so that TRF grant projects can be put together once the initial clean-up work has been done. The possibilities to help in this regard are limitless and funds contributed in this way will ultimately qualify for Rotary Foundation grant funds being added to the project. This is a more studied and focused approach to a huge problem and will allow a much higher level of planning.

Personal contributions to a district fund will receive tax deductibility once the funds have been applied to the project (if not already given by the district).

Support through Shelter Box/Disaster Aid

It’s possible to support the Philippine people by supporting one or both of these organisations. The Philippines already has a stock pile of these.  Many boxes are already en route to The Philippines ( 8000 from UK) and both organisations need additional funding to replace those boxes. Both organisations have people on the ground in The Philippines to ensure the boxes are placed where most needed.

Personal contributions to both organisations will qualify for tax deductibility in Australia.