I opened the 6 October meeting by accepting a NSW Government Community Recognition Award from local MP Tim James on behalf of the club. The award recognised the success of our Pride of Workmanship Awards held in April and also acknowledged the many years of dedication to the program by the late Tom Sweeney.
Thanks to the efforts of George, Leah and many other volunteers, we enjoyed another highly successful Crows Nest Fair. The event generated 21 leads from people interested in learning more about Rotary. Bev has already followed up with many of these contacts, resulting in six visitors attending last week's meeting, with more expected to join us before Christmas. The fair also provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen our connection with the local community.
Following the fair, we joined the Rotary Clubs of Lane Cove, Northbridge and North Sydney Sunrise to host the BBQ before the annual Mary's House Walk. Supporting Mary's House, a refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence, has been a long-standing commitment of our club and remains an important focus of our community service efforts.
Another key focus is the Crows Nest Community Centre, which has recently faced funding reductions from North Sydney Council. I am delighted to report that our District Grant application to upgrade the Centre's shower facilities has been approved. The Centre has seen demand increase dramatically, from one person using the showers each day to around ten.
Thanks to Louise's efforts, we have already provided a new washing machine and dryer, helping to significantly reduce the Centre's substantial laundry costs.
Our fundraising activities continue to deliver strong results. The October Bunnings BBQ raised an impressive $1,800, and members are encouraged to support Angelo in selling the remaining Melbourne Cup Trifecta tickets.
Looking ahead, Gloria is coordinating our club's trip to the District Conference in Mudgee next March. The conference program features a range of outstanding keynote speakers and enjoyable social activities. Members interested in attending are asked to contact Gloria before the 3 November meeting.
Ending the year on a high note, I encourage everyone to mark what I believe is our most inspiring and enjoyable meeting of the year in your diary.
Our Giving Night will be held on Wednesday, 16 December, providing a wonderful opportunity to hear directly from the organisations and community groups whose work has been supported through our fundraising and donations. Their stories offer a powerful reminder of the real difference Rotary makes in our community.
One of the highlights of last year's event was hearing from the recipients themselves. In fact, two recipients told me they almost felt embarrassed accepting their donations because they believed the other organisations were even more deserving. Their humility and appreciation perfectly captured the spirit of Giving Night and made the evening both memorable and uplifting.
Thank you all for your continued support, service and fellowship.
YIR
W
