Our Guest Speaker PP Ted Burton was introduced to talk about Smart Aid and the Safe Water Program. Smart Aid is an initiative of Disaster Aid Australia which was established to provide emergency relief aid. Tents were provided for shelter but eventually the tent cities became a problem. Smart Aid was then introduced to involve the affected community in the solution to their needs and then responding accordingly. Building supplies etc are sourced locally giving the locals a sense of purpose and supporting the local economy. Safe Water Solutions: Ted gave a fascinating demonstration as to the use of the SkyHydrant Water Filtration system. Australian made, the SkyHydrant is a proven sustainable method of removing all bacteria and dirt, produces 1000 litres of safe water an hour and will last 10 years. Villages using them have a proven decrease in dysentery. 120 schools in Bhutan have been identified as needing safer water to prevent widespread illness. Costing $5000 to provide each school, the project is needing to raise $1 million dollars and Disaster Aid is looking for sponsorship from clubs and organisations. Muriel thanked Ted for making the long journey down from Youngtown to update us on another wonderful humanitarian project initiated by Rotary.
The Annual Grandparents Xmas in July Lunch could not be possible with out the continued support of the many Rotarian volunteers and sponsors.A combined project for the Rotary Clubs of Moonah, Glenorchy and Claremont and in its seventh year it provides a wonderful day out for the many Grandparents who care full time for their grandchildren. Often struggling themselves with financial and health difficulties a day out where they are can enjoy companionship and laughter is a welcome event. The children are entertained by a variety of craft activities as well as Balloon Animals and Face painting. Thank you once again to Glenview Nursing home. Each year they have given their time to provide a fabulous Xmas Lunch. This year they and the volunteers had the extra challenge of the lift not working and having to bring all the food and equipment up four flights of stairs! Of course Xmas has to have a visit from Santa who with much "Ho Ho Hoing" gave all the children and grandparents toys and gifts. Thank you to Toy world for their ongoing support. Everyone left with big smiles and full tummies looking forward to next year's event.
How wonderful to see all our members and partners both present and past celebrating both the end and beginning of another successful Rotary year. We were also pleased that outgoing IPDG Tony Coleman and Liz chose to be with us after their busy year also. The Glenorchy RSL provided a choice of meals and members enjoyed fellowship and catching up with past members Merv Floyd, Frank Hill and John Parr.
President Barry has committed to be our Inspiration. What a fun year it will be!