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| Our hosts IPDG Colin and Colleen |
Conference in Hamilton - a big success!
From the very start, the delegates gathered to celebrate achievements, to learn more and to enjoy each others company. This was a Conference where DG Peter led from the front - ably supported by PDG Ian Holyoake and the impressive line up of speakers.
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| Danae with an inspirational story |
RI Director Stuart was present and gave those who attended a very clear message that if Rotary was to remain relevant there was the need for change and encouraged all Clubs to embrace the new strategic plan focused on strengthening Clubs, increasing humanitarian service and enhancing our public image.
It was wonderful to have Past RI President Frank Devlyn at the conference. His personality, his message and his humour was a great input into a very full programme.
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| The youth exchange students entering into the spirit of Kiwiana |
We were moved by the personal story of Didi Kalika from the Lotus Children's Centre in Mongolia - a programme of love and dedication and with some much Rotary can do to assist young orphaned children in such a harsh land. The international students presented a humorous and entertaining session and demonstrated once again how valuable this programme is. The Group Study Exchange team from Georgie presented an informative session and we also heard from the 9930 team recently returned from Tanzania. Throughout the Conference there were presentations from various Clubs on environmental projects (Kawerau), art displays (Greenmeadows), internal music competitions (Gisborne) and fund raising activities
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| Such a great MC - PDG Ian |
from 4x4 rallies (Te Awamutu) to the wonderful 'Plenty' Cookbook fundraising project from Whakatane West.
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| DG Peter and Wal (aka Rebecca) |
Professor Welby Ings gave a very provocative and challenging presentation on the approach to education and Wiremu Kawiti spoke of his achievements with his own wonderful art. Sir Colin Meads and Lady Verna were present on Sunday and Sir Colin had all chuckling about the approach to team nutrition, or more importantly his own approach to the advice given to the All Blacks and his approach - telling the conference of the benefit of red meat and 6 teaspoons of sugar! And they were both honoured with a PHF.
My personal highlight was the inspirational presentation by Danae Cooney - a 17 year old Interactor and
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| Sir Colin entertained! |
Head Girl of Hillcrest High School. A young adult who has grasped the real meaning of service and the passion of wanting to serve others through humanitarian projects. Truely inspirational. Read more here ...
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| Sir Colin honoured with a PHF |
And Saturday night of course was a night of Kiwiana costume and fun. Thanks DG Peter and team.
