John Birrell’s Job Talk
Members were delighted to hear John speak briefly and so modestly about his sporting life, career and community activities.
John was raised in the eastern suburbs of Geelong and attended the Tate Street Primary School and later the Junior Technical School in Moorabool Street. He qualified as an electrician and after working for a Geelong company for a number of years, he moved to the Geelong Waterworks and Sewerage Trust (now Barwon Water) and stayed for about 30 years until his retirement.
In his younger days John played several sports that included badminton, cricket and table tennis.He managed an elite squad of badminton players that took him around the world, including China, Europe, USA and New Zealand to name a few.
He was an excellent cricketer as a batsman and wicketkeeper. He proudly told us that he still holds a batting record of 252 runs from when he played for the Shenton Methodist team. He not only played but coached cricket for over 25 years.
Apart from his work as a Rotarian, John is deeply involved in the Social Organisation for the Handicapped that conducts social evenings (including dancing to live music) twice a month and bus trips once a month. John is convenor of Neighbourhood Watch in the Newcomb/St Alban’s Park/East Geelong area. He is also a stalwart of the East Geelong Uniting Church where he looks after the Property Committee, as well as other duties.
More recently he has taken on the position of Acting Caretaker at the Geelong Showgrounds, and enjoys looking after the campers who use the facilities there.
John’s life so far has been exemplified by ‘service above self’ and is an inspiration to us all.
Committee Reports
President David invited representatives to give a one minute summary of their committees’ discussion/decisions.
Youth
The Youth Committee agreed to donate to the Science and Engineering Challenge to be held at Deakin in early April. They also called for volunteers for the two-day event.
On a show of hands, about 20 members indicated they had spoken to others about Rotary and the ben fits of joining Rotary. David advised that two new members will be inducted shortly.
Peter Cook reported that he was planning to have the Rotary logo on the shirts of players of the Newcomb Power Football Club that we hope to support through a District 9780 grant. Peter is also inquiring about the cost of signage around the perimeter of the Newcomb Power home ground in Coppards Road, and the St Alban’s Football Club grounds.
Public Relations
Tony Alsop reported on:
- the Club’s new purchases: a large tear-drop banner with logo on display, and a strong table covering with the Rotary logo for use at sausage sizzles.
- the official launch of the Barwon River safety markers is planned for 11 April at 10.30am, yet to be confirmed.
- the need to order new Rotary shirts: the Frankston Club will be used as a likely model.
Laurnet advised that his committee:
- will donate to the Science and Engineering Challenge
- is seeking nominations for Trainee of the Year and RYLA
- has a nomination for the Pride and Professionalism Award.
International
Warren reported on the following matters:
- the success of the recent Friendship Exchange with Canadians from Manitoba and Saskatchewan
- donation of $1,000 to the Peace Scholar program of The Rotary Foundation, with $500 from the International Committee and $500 from the Foundation Committee
- there are plans to hold another International Dinner - culture/country yet to be decided.
Fundraising
Yannick reported that her committee discussed other ways of raising revenue, including a board games event aimed at families.
Next week’s meeting 19 March:
Presentation of the R J Vague Award
Presentation of a cheque to the Lithuanian Club
A Board meeting will follow the dinner meeting.
