Message from Pres John.
There will be a Board meeting this evening. Due to sickness and holidays we have had many absences from our meetings over the past two months. We need to have a Board meeting as there is pressing business that we need to deal with this evening.
As supported by PP John Mansour and PP Keith Weeding, I think our Club should have a high attendance at this year's District Conference. This year is only a one day conference and being held at Brighton Le Sands. DG Regna told me that he chose to hold the Conference in Sydney and only for one day to keep the costs down for attendees. ( https://www.rotarydistrict9675.org/ )
PP John Mansour has volunteered to organise our delegation (remember in the past it was Ron Lucas' job) and I thank you John for offering.
From our Last Meeting 15th September 2025
Meeting opened at 6.25 by PP Keith Weeding with the Rotary Affirmation
Keith welcomed our guest Speaker Dianne North. He apologised that we have many members away on holidays and some are currently sick.
Apologies: Pres John Kane, PP Dennise Herrick ( LOA) Patricia Abraham, PP Fred Walker, PP Sana Kamalesan, PP John Mansour, PP Walter Bock, PP Hugo Robinson, PP Irene Giardino, Anna-Marie Sanni, PDG Paul Sarks
Secretary Report PP Peter Moore
- New suggested Bylaws from Rotary International
- End Polio Train 24th October
- District Conference. 14th March
- Bank Balances
Fundraising – Bunnings Ashfield Sausage Sizzle BBQ Alf Dimarco
Final report re money banked and quantities of food required for out next Sausage sizzle.
New Generations / Youth / PRISCA - Rob Whitney
PRISCA Planning meetings: every second Monday organised by Liam via Zoom (8pm)
NYSF application accepted and money to be re imbursed
PP Keith introduced Dianne North OAM Interplast
We were privileged to hear from Diane North OAM who presented a powerful presentation about the life-changing work being carried out by surgical missions supported by Rotary and partner organisations.
Interplast sends teams of volunteer plastic and reconstructive surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and allied health professionals to provide life-changing surgery and medical training in 17 countries across the Asia Pacific region.
We were introduced to Jaden, a young boy who was severely burned as a baby when boiling water spilled on him. In 2013, he underwent surgery with renowned burns specialist Dr. Peter Hirsch. Over time, contractures returned, but in 2024 Dr. Hirsch was once again able to operate on Jaden during a surgical mission. The outcome was a success, giving this young man greater mobility and a brighter future.
Dr. Hirsch has also been the surgeon for Australian ultra-marathon runner Turia Pitt, who suffered catastrophic burns during a race in the Kimberley. Her survival and recovery, she says, were only possible because of the exceptional treatment available in Australia — treatment that is far beyond the reach of many in developing countries.
These missions highlight a stark reality: in places such as Papua New Guinea, burns are tragically common. Families rely on open fires inside huts for warmth and cooking, and children often suffer accidents from flames or boiling water. With little or no access to medical care, injuries that could be treated quickly in Australia develop into severe, lifelong disabilities.
Cleft lip and palate is another condition addressed by these missions. While in Australia babies receive corrective surgery within their first year of life, in developing nations it is not uncommon to see adults living with untreated conditions. For these individuals, surgery is not only life-changing but also restores dignity and social acceptance.
The costs of these missions have risen significantly since COVID-19. What once cost $40,000–$45,000 per mission now requires around $70,000. Airfares, accommodation, and medical supplies have all increased, with approximately 300 kilograms of surgical equipment transported on every trip. Despite these challenges, each surgery costs only around $1,500 — a fraction of the cost in Australia. Volunteers cover their own travel and accommodation, ensuring donations go directly toward patient care.
The organisation is one of only 30 worldwide accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, enabling access to government support and ensuring the highest standards of accountability.
The message for us as Rotarians is clear: our support truly transforms lives. Through contributions to these missions, we are giving children like Jaden the chance to move, to smile, and to live without pain. We are enabling adults with cleft lips to walk into their communities without stigma. And we are showing families in remote villages that they are not forgotten.
PP Keith thanked Dianne for reminding us of both the great needs that exist and the extraordinary difference Rotary can make by supporting Interplast.
Meeting closed at 7.40
Raffle won by PP Keith who donated the prize to the Guest speaker
From Burwood Mayor John Faker's Bulletin - Burwood voted Australia's coolest neighbourhood.
There’s so much to celebrate in Burwood this week! Time Out has named our suburb Australia’s coolest neighbourhood for 2025 and we’ve been ranked 16th in the world. This is an extraordinary recognition that shines a spotlight on everything that makes our suburb unique: our buzzing Chinatown, vibrant night markets, thriving food scene, beautiful parks, and the energy of our community that keeps Burwood alive day and night. This is more than just a title. It’s a celebration of you, the people who call Burwood home, the stories we share, and the culture we create together. And the most exciting part? This is just the beginning. You can read the full article here.
Rotary Pacific Zone Conference
Coolangatta is the venue for the 2025 Rotary Pacific Zone Conference, taking place from 30 October to 2 November 2025. We are encouraging all Rotarians and Rotaractors to come together. All are welcome. You will be inspired and motivated as we connect and share ideas to grow Rotary and activate the strategic priorities of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation. Our 2025 event will be held at the Twin Towns Conference Centre. There are plenty of things you can do in this famous part of Australia and its hinterland before or after the conference.
Meeting Apologies
Please remember to send your apologies to Past President Sergeant Keith if you are unable to attend a club meeting. Email: Keith.Weeding@gmail.com
