Downtown Auckland Rotary President for 2023-24 is James Billing.
James was born and spent his youth in Zimbabwe, and considers himself a "child of Africa".
His original exposure to Rotary was by joining and becoming President of his School's Interact Club, following which he was selected for a Rotary Youth Exchange to Germany in 2000 - 2001.
After moving to NZ, he was a founding charter member of the Rotaract club of Auckland and became a Rotarian in 2013 while living in Rotorua before transferring his membership from Rotorua Sunrise to Downtown in 2015.
James was drawn to his career in Hotel Management, as he always found hotels to be unique places where every day the hotel was a "new place" to the people who arrived that day. That challenge led him to a career in hotels and hospitality. Working in Hotel Management reinforces for him the concept that "every day is a new day", and he is motivated to provide a welcoming, safe and comfortable place for people to stay.
Add fuel to your fun-loving spirit with an electrifying night as our Battle of the Suits teams unleash their epic debating skills.
These witty and charismatic debaters are sure to charge up the atmosphere, keep you engaged and make you laugh until you literally peel with joy. This is truly a one-of-a-kind event.
This highly anticipated biennial black-tie dinner and debate, where you will mingle with industry leaders and like-minded professionals, is one of the most talked-about social events of this year. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to connect, this is an event you won’t want to miss. It won’t happen again for another two years.
So, gather your colleagues, clients, and friends and reserve your seats for a night full of high-energy and humorous entertainment. The speakers may even sling some insults your way.
When we were planning our Battle of the Suits event for 2021, it was an easy decision to make KiwiHarvest the major beneficiary. We'd had a relationship with them for a few years and could sadly, see the growing need for what they do in the community growing month by month. This week they released their 2022 annual report, which makes for great reading, take a peak at page 28 to see a write up about our Battle of the Suits event. https://bit.ly/3uXojUI
Our environmental team, Dan, Simon, Elaine and Mark headed out to Clevedon to help Remuera Intermediate plant out the seedlings they have nurtured over the last 12 months. Trees for Survival is a charitable trust that works with 150 schools and local communities across New Zealand to grow and plant native trees along waterways and on erosion prone hillsides. https://www.tfsnz.org.nz
We had a wonderful night of celebration and fellowship at our annual Changeover event on Friday 1 July at the Grand Millennium Hotel. Thanks were extended to out going president Christine who managed to keep members engaged through another year of Covid and lockdowns and a very warm welcome was extended to Simon as he starts his presidential term.
Congratulations to Frankie, a very deserving recipient of a PHF and to Christine who received a PHF+1. James Hook recognised Frankie and Elaine for their 100% attendance.
President Elect James Billing was a great MC and the Grand Millennium team looked after us extremely well with great food and beverages.
Battle of the Suits is returning on Thursday 11 May 2023 at the Cordis Hotel. The planning is underway and we promise that this event will be bigger and better than before. We are thrilled to advise that David Downs will once again MC the evening and negotiations are underway to secure our debate teams and adjudicators, as always we can guarantee that the teams will provide plenty of entertainment and laughter.
The main beneficiary will be a Well Foundation project dedicated to the mental health of our youth. The Skills Training for Emotional Problem Solving for Adolescents (STEPS-A) is a universal social-emotional learning curriculum specifically designed for intermediate and high school students.
Mark the date in your diary, this is an event you won't want to miss!
Sister Club (to Downtown Auckland Rotary), Osaka-Dojima Rotary Club, Osaka, Japan
The relationship between Downtown and Osaka-Dojima transcends many years. It is laden with a marvellous history of co-operation on funding and community service projects, life-long memories created via travel on the part of many members of both clubs between Osaka and Auckland, friendships that withstand the tests of time and change but most of all, mutual respect and empathy between two cultures that are so different and yet so much the same.
At the time of writing, the global Covid-19 pandemic has prevented the levels of engagement that the two clubs are used to - so far from 2020 through to 2022. However, we have just made a joint donation to the relief fund for Tonga (following the devastation caused by the eruptions of the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai volcano, Dec 2021 - Jan 2022), a total close to NZ$12,000 achieved by a 50:50 contribution between the two clubs. We are delighted to have achieved this contribution together.
We also look forward to a return to the past with projects reinstated post-pandemic and the unadulterated camaraderie and fun Downtown and Osaka-Dojima have shared with respective in-person visits.
Please contact the current President of the Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland (RCODA) or email downtownAKLrotary@gmail.com to find out more.
So many wonderful people out there doing great things in the #community. Another #RotaryDowntown#inspirationalspeaker, Jack Keeys, who went from answering a Facebook message from a stranger in need, to helping many others around him; running a #marathon in gumboots to raise money for #melanomaNZand doing 100km of NZ's #Greatwalks barefoot to support kids in need of shoes - and so much more!
Plus having time for his day job and graduate #RYLA 2021!
The Majestic Northern Club is the home of Downtown Auckland Rotary. We meet on a Tuesday morning from 7am for a 7:20am start, if you're interested in finding out more about Rotary, we extend a warm welcome to join us. Email downtownaklrotary@gmail.com for more details
Been using the downtime lately to do a bit of sorting? Turn those unused items in $$ for the End Polio Now. Head to https://thegoodsell.co.nz/ and find out how (It's just like TradeMe but you can select to donate a % of the sale price)
Following the success of our second 'Battle of the Suits' event in May 2021, we are pleased to have been able to donate $70,000 to KiwiHarvest. With the ongoing impact of Covid 19 and lockdowns, more and more people are having to reach out for support to feed their families.
KiwiHarvest collect surplus and donated food and distribute it to communities in need, for more information go to www.kiwiharvest.org.nz
It was great to have Auckland City MP, Chloe Swarbrick, join us for our Tuesday morning meeting on 12 October!
From radio host to entrepreneur to MP she’s tenacious and driven and it was an inspirational and thought provoking start to the day.
Covid lockdowns have not interrupted our weekly meetings, we are very adept now at moving on to the Zoom platform, and we have been fortunate that most of our speakers have also been able to transition their talks to the online format.
It was a night of entertainment and hilarity when the ‘Battle of the Suits’ debate organised and hosted by the Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland in association with Milford Asset Management featured again on the Auckland event scene on Wednesday 19 May 2021. 450 guests made their way to the 5-star Cordis Hotel ballroom in central Auckland, dressed-to-impress in their finery for the occasion and ready to enjoy the evening’s festivities.
On 19 May 2021, a ‘celebrity’ team comprising Steven Joyce, Dame Fran Wilde and Karl Budge argued the affirmative against the Legal Eagles, Julian Miles QC, Rachael Reed QC and Timothy Orr. The Honourable Justice Simon Moore of the High Court and Court of Appeal Justice Lyn Stevens adjudicated keeping everyone in line (between much hilarious commentary) and MC David Downs, failing at times NOT to favour the affirmative argument, brilliantly held everyone (including himself) in check and on track. The celebrity team were victorious on the night, as determined by a cheering audience.
The Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland, in association with Milford Asset Management is delighted to again present the ‘Battle of the Suits’ debate.
WEDNESDAY 19 MAY 2021, 6:15PM, CORDIS HOTEL, AUCKLAND
You will be entertained by a celebrity team armed with an abnormally high combination of intellect and humour advocating that ‘The Nation’s Capital Should Return to Auckland’. In opposition an equally astute team of lawyers – a class we know to be beyond comparison when it comes to the art of argument - will oppose the moot, no doubt vigorously and artfully.
You will enjoy a beautifully set environment, welcome canapés, a 3-course dinner and beverages and great company, during an evening of entertainment like no other, knowing that you are supporting New Zealand’s KiwiHarvest and other equally as worthy local charities.
Visit www.battleofthesuits.co.nz now for more information (including viewing our 2019 event video if you unfortunately missed out last time), and to purchase your tickets
Friday 22nd January saw a group of 9 volunteers from the club helping out at the Auckland City Mission Distribution Centre in Grafton.
Many thanks to Christine, Pam & Alan, James & Isaac, Harley, Celia, Des & Chris for the great job of making up food parcels and sorting pallets of donated food.
Battle of the Suits will be back on Wednesday 19 May 2021, at the Cordis Hotel. Planning is coming along well and we anticipate another fabulous evening of fine food, wine, entertainment and fundraising. This time the funds will be shared between KiwiHarvest and some of our other Downtown Rotary causes, like our Youth Programmes, Child and Adolescent Mental Health and environmental programmes.
How can our members help, we need your support in sourcing auction items for both our live and silent auctions. Items can range in value from around $50 to .......... the sky is the limit. There is no right or wrong item, anything from a bottle of good wine, to an experience i.e. golf, fishing charter, accommodation package, vouchers for local businesses, technology items, i.e. smart phone, TV, watch, camera, private dining experiences, restaurant/cafe vouchers, artwork or sporting memorabilia. If you can't muster up an item, we are happy to take donations that we can use to purchase items that we can then auction, if this is something you'd like to do, please contact Gill Johnston for details of the best way to action this. Please let Mark Jenkins know if you can help out with an item.
In the New Year we will be commencing ticket sales, so while you're catching up with family and friends over the holiday season keep this in mind and think about organising a table of 10 - tickets will be $250pp or $2500 a table of 10 (all pricing inc GST). However, if you know now that you want tickets let Gill now and she will be happy to send out an invoice.
More news about this event will be coming to you in the New Year.
At the AGM on Tuesday 8 December, Simon Walton was given an enthusiastic Downtown Auckland welcome by members as the President Nominee to lead the club in 2022/2023.
Elaine Ebbett and Frankie Crellin have been busy over the last few months delivering books to Edmund Hillary Primary School and to the spinal unit in South Auckland.
Elaine sources the books from friends and libraries and enjoys being able to provide books to children who would otherwise never have a book in their home.
The latest delivery to Edmund Hillary Primary School was welcomed with open arms as it was just in time for this years prize giving.
If anyone has access to books that Elaine could use in this way please let her know.
On Friday 27th November, Rob Wills, Elaine Ebbett, Harley Pope, Mark Jenkins, Celia Fullerton-Smith and Chris Hickey spent a morning packing emergency food parcels at the Auckland City Mission Distribution Centre in Grafton.
The Mission provides around 25,000 food parcels to Auckland-based individuals and families in desperate need each year.
The ‘Gardens in Schools’ team led by Greg Moyle has completed a new garden at Grey Lynn Primary School. (They wore masks, stayed 2m apart and there was plenty of breeze). The gardens look great and the signage provides good promotion for Downtown Rotary. We send a huge thank you to the team - who just get on with things and we're very lucky to have them.
On Friday 16th October, Rob & Joanne Wills, Elaine Ebbett, Gill Johnston and Chris Hickey spent a morning packing emergency food parcels at the Auckland City Mission Distribution Centre in Grafton.
The Mission provides around 25,000 food parcels to Auckland-based individuals and families in desperate need each year.
This year's subs invoices will be sent out shortly and you will be pleased to hear that subs will remain at $350 +GST, as always there is the option to donate $100 to The Rotary Foundation and $50 to Polio Plus, which will be included on the initial invoice. Should you prefer not to pay these amounts please request an amended invoice from our club Treasurer, Segun, shegsrotimi@yahoo.co.uk
The amount will be debited to your AP account, we will send out account statements so that you can check if you need to make a top up payment to cover this.
To understand more about the Rotary Foundation and End Polio Now click on read more
RLI is a fun interactive seminar that builds Rotary knowledge and develops leadership skills. Designed to provide a broad overview of Rotary it is open to all Rotarians and Rotaractors.
The next All-in-one weekend - RLI parts 1, 2 and 3 + Graduate will be held Sat 31 October and Sun 1 November 2020, 8:30am - 4:30pm
Graduate course is Sunday only
KPMG, 18 Viaduct Harbour Ave, Auckland. parking is available onsite.
Curriculum notes, morning tea and lunch are provided.
Class size is limited to 20 for maximum benefit, please contact Byran for more information btheunisen@kpmg.co.nz or 027 579 7930
First of all this month has been another really busy month!! Second, I finally got my visa! Better late than never I guess ahahaha. Third, I can't believe I officially only have one month left! My new favourite word is either “Ohrwurm” which refers to having a song stuck in your head or “Kopfkino” which pretty much means daydreaming.
This month I’ve learnt how to cook Kässpätzle and Tiroler Knödel which are both traditional Austrian dishes and taught my family how to make a Pavlova and Mince and Cheese Pies because I was horrified to hear that they had never had a Mince and Cheese Pie before!!! I also made vegan chocolate mousse and went through a pancake phase. I made pasta, a few curries, apple crumble and zucchini noodles with tomatoes and fries.
We have had some great speakers so far this year, covering a variety of topics from Covid 19 and the impact on tax and the economy, Auckland City Mission Home Ground Project, African Safari Parks, KiwiHarvest, Emotional Intelligence, Ronnie Biggs, the 2018 Inquiry into Mental Health and the upcoming election.
Our thanks go to Terry Baucher, Graeme Birkhead, Alex Pritchard, Peter & Robyn Doone, our own John Halstead, Prof Ron Patterson, Camelia Petrus, Gavin Findlay, Rod Oram and the Honorable Dr Jonathan Coleman for joining us, sometimes having to switch to Zoom or covering another speaker at late notice due to the implications of Covid 19 and lockdown levels.
These speakers have been of such a calibre that if you're not joining in, you're missing out!
Many thanks to Mark Jenkins, Rob Wills and the team for the hard work in seeking out these people. Don't hesitate to contact Mark or Rob if you have a speaker recommendation.
President - Stuart Rowe; President Elect - Christine Fenby; Immediate Past President - Byran Theunisen; Secretary - Keiko Murakami; Treasurer - Según Rotimi; Fellowship - Kat Trevor & Gareth Juddery; Fundraising - Gill Johnston; Membership - James Hook; PR - Susanne Loesser; Auckland City Mission - Chris Hickey; CAMH - Graham Hendry; Gardens in Schools - Greg Moyle; KiwiHarvest - Kerryn Downey; RMH - Mark Jenkins; Trees for Survival - Dan Turkel; Youth - Letitia Eyes
Zoom has become a part of our lives this year and it has enabled us to retain our weekly meetings, however, it's important that we follow some Zoom etiquette.
Please ensure you 'MUTE' your audio when the guest speaker is presenting.
If you are moving around your home/office and not watching the presentation 'STOP' your video, you will still be able to hear the audio.
Both of these actions are easy to do:
On your computer - move your cursor so that the menu options appear at the bottom of the screen, 'click on the microphone icon', a red line will appear across the microphone to show you are muted. When you want to unmute do the same and the red line will disappear to show you are unmuted. Likewise to stop your video, click on the 'Stop video icon' next to mute and your picture will be replaced with a black screen and your name, again to restart your video repeat the action.
Ensure you click on the microphone or video icon NOT the up arrow to the side.
If you are on a mobile device, tap the screen and tap the relevant icon
What a great way to start the day! We were very fortunate to have Peter and Robyn join us to share their experiences of living and managing several luxury safari lodges in Africa. They had us captivated with stories about the wildlife, tourists, getting supplies by boat and their personal camping trips which included lions cruising around their tent at night!
Picture shows member Mike Milne, giving the vote of thanks and presenting the clubs 'Good Oil'.
Our Club was thrilled to receive this award at District Changeover. Congratulations and a big thank you to David Graham, Mark Jenkins, Christine Fenby, Gill Johnston and Byran Theunisen who organised the 'Battle of the Suits' event and made it an unforgettable experience for Rotarians and Non-Rotarians.
The Project Excellence Award is given to a Rotary Club that has completed a club project that has impacted on Non-Rotarians.
Battle of the Suits will be back on 19 May 2021 at the Cordis Hotel.
It was great to have Nic Russell join us on Tuesday morning and to hear about her experience and founding of Kenzie's Gift. The charity supports the mental health of children, young people and families affected by serious illness or bereavement through the provision of one on one therapy with registered mental health professionals. A special thanks to Suzanne O'Leary for connecting us with Nic.
We were very fortunate to have Juliet Jones, Director Legal, Regulatory and Sustainability, Vodafone NZ at our guest speaker.
Juliet spoke about the future of business in the post COVID19 world, and it was great to run our second hybrid in-person and virtual meeting, consistent with that theme.
New Zealand is now down to level 1, which means we have been able to resume our regular weekly meetings at the Northern Club. We understand that some of our members are not ready to do that yet, so we are blending with technology and also sharing the meetings on the Zoom virtual platform.
On Friday 3 July we will hold our Changeover dinner at the Northern Club, this will be an opportunity for member's to enjoy the great Downtown fellowship, celebrate Byran's year as President and welcome incoming President Stuart.
Stay safe, be kind and don't forget to wash your hands
On Tuesday morning, club member Harley Pope shared with us his experiences serving in the armed forces in Vietnam, Northern Ireland and Malaya, amongst others.
Suzanne O'Leary, Co-Director for AGGS & Rotary Youth Programs, spoke at breakfast on Tuesday about members participating in the upcoming interviews for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) candidates.
On Tuesday morning, Heather Robinson, Co-Director for AGGS & Rotary Youth Programs, spoke about the upcoming mentoring program for AGGS (Auckland Girls Grammar). The details are outlined as follows:
On Saturday night, President Elect Stuart Rowe and President Byran Theunisen joined club member and Auckland City Rotaract President Rumbie Muzawazi at the Rotaract club's cultural evening to celebrate their 15th birthday.
In February, the visiting scholar that our club supports in conjunction with the Tedd & Mollie Carr Trust, Professor Chris Hollis, presented the latest research in the field at Auckland University Medical School. Several club members attended, and the photos are included below courtesy of the Medical School.
This Saturday, Greg Moyle was joined by some farm helpers from the club: Suzanne O'Leary, her daughter Claire and son William, along with President Byran.
We were excited to have KiwiHarvest CEO, Gavin Findlay, join us for breakfast on Tuesday morning. KiwiHarvest is one of the core charitable causes that our club supports, and will be the major recipient of our big annual fundraiser, Battle of the Suits, in August later this year.
In recognition of the great support that our club has provided to Kiwi Harvest, we have been invited to the official opening of their new Auckland premises.
An update to last week's notice about visiting Professor Chris Hollis of the University of Nottingham public lecture at the Medical School the evening of 17 February, as part of our support for Child & Adolescent Mental Health.
Following the success of Simon's previous dinner presentation on his war history tour, a sequel has been organised, planned for the evening of 24 March at the Rydges Hotel - covering Simon's most recent war history travels.
As part of our ongoing partnership with the Ted & Mollie Carr Trust and Auckland University, we are pleased to announce that we have Professor Chris Hollis of the University of Nottingham visiting in February, conducting training for medical clinicians in e-mental health.
We are excited to be invited to the next big event of the Rotaract Club of Auckland City, which is the Rotaract club sponsored by our club - a cultural night on 7 March.
On Saturday, the Rotaract Club of Auckland City, which our club is a co-sponsor of, held their Christmas party at Long Bay Beach and President Byran Theunisen attended on behalf of our club.
On behalf of the club, Youth/Auckland Girls Grammar Co-Director Heather Robinson and President Byran Theunisen attended the end of year awards at Eden Campus Teen Parent School, and Liz Thomson attended as well as a Trustee for the Further Chance Charitable Trust which runs the childcare centre attached to the school.
Our annual club AGM was held on Tuesday morning. In addition to announcing that Christine Fenby will be club President for 2021-2022 (covered separately in its own Story), the club and trust financial results were also presented.
Ronald McDonald House Cook Nights are great events that our club supports, not only as a hands on activity but also by providing some of the ingredients.
On Tuesday, Dr Hiran Thabrew of Auckland University joined us to talk about his research into Child and Adolescent Mental Health. We were very excited to host him as this is one of the social causes that our club supports.
Jolene Muir, one of our recent Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) graduates, joined us for breakfast on Tuesday to share what she's been up to, having recently completed an internship at the United Nations.
Jolene Muir, one of our recent Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) graduates, joined us for breakfast on Tuesday to share what she's been up to, having recently completed an internship at the United Nations.
For some time we’ve had a standing invitation to join the Kiwi Harvest team on one of their pick up and delivery runs. The aim of “Riding Shotgun” (as they call it) is to learn a bit more about Kiwi Harvest and experience the “feel good factor” as good nourishing food gets delivered to those who need it. Kerryn Downey, volunteered to “Ride Shotgun” on Friday and here are his comments and the photos:
On Tuesday, we were joined by the leadership from Auckland City Mission for us to officially present our $55,000 donation toward their HomeGround Project.
We were joined by Chris Farrelly - Auckland City Mission CEO, Mandy Mee - HomeGround Campaign Manager, and The Hon Justice Lyn Stevens of the Court of Appeal & HomeGround Campaign Executive.
Troy Churton, National Manager - Retirement Villages & Ageing Workforce at the Commission for Financial Capability, joined us for breakfast on Tuesday.
On Tuesday 5th November the club met at Sheila McCabe's house to enjoy the Melbourne Cup.A great time was had by all catching the race and enjoying dinner and drinks.
On Friday 1 November, our club participated in the Ride to End Polio event. Mark Jenkins, Gill Johnston and Byran Theunisen joined up with the Auckland and Waiheke clubs to participate at Britomart station. John Boscawen joined other Rotarians from across Auckland in riding the trains with Simon Bridges. And Pam Deal joined in to ride the trains with Miss New Zealand Lucy Brock.
On Wednesday night, the Youth/AGGS Committee hosted a Fashion Night fundraiser at Repertoire, Takapuna. Suzanne O'Leary and Heather Robinson put together a great evening in partnership with the Repertoire team. In attendance were several club members plus a range of other friends, family and supporters.
We had the great pleasure of being joined by two friends from out South on Tuesday: Tania Thomas - President of the Rotary Club of Otahuhu, and Walter Hsueh - President of the Rotary Club of Auckland South.
On Tuesday morning, Kenneth Winstone - Director for the Trees for Survival cause - provided an update on the activities of their committee. In recent months, the club has supported several schools in planting trees under the program, with many club members volunteering to attend planting days, and the plan is for this to continue going forward.
John Boscawen, as Foundation Director, provided a further update on the upcoming District fundraising project to address our continuing fight to end polio. Several members have already put their hands up to participate and more are always welcome. The key details are reproduced again below for reference - more details to follow.
John Boscawen, as Foundation Director, provided an update at breakfast on the upcoming District fundraising project to address our continuing fight to end polio.
On Friday evening, one of our newest club member's, Weilian Du, presented on Run for Freedom & Project Starfish, Rotary projects she is fundraising for which seek to help the plight of children in Southeast Asia who are caught in the crossroads of trafficking and abuse.
On Tuesday morning, we were privileged to have Chloe Marshall and Bex Baddeley, Fire Risk Management Officers for the Auckland City Area join us for breakfast.
We were excited to hear from the team at Parafed, NZ's oldest and largest disability sport organisation, including CEO Tom Smith, Development Manager Yann Roux and athlete Neelam O'Neill.
On Wednesday eve, John had a great presentation to a group of Rotarians from other clubs in our district about the microfinance project in the South Pacific.
On Tuesday morning, we had the great pleasure of having Grace Cussell, 2018 Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) recipient, joining us for breakfast. Grace mixed and mingled with members, and spoke about how her life has changed since completing RYLA, what she learnt from that experience and her future plans. Big thanks for coming in and sharing this with us Grace.
Great presentation by Brian Leonard of Thorndon Cook about his experience as an electrical engineer working in some very diverse locations, including Iraq, Iran, Indonesia and Mozambique, amongst a host of other places. Fascinating insights - many thanks Brian.
Greg Moyle has received some wonderful feedback from Sonia Davies, the Deputy Principal of Mt Albert Primary School. An extract is included - great stuff Greg:
WOW! what a night, 330 guests turned out in style to attend the inaugural 'Battle of the Suits' in August 2019. We all enjoyed fine food and wine and fabulous entertainment from our debaters and adjudicators and along with that we raised in excess of $50,000 for the Auckland City Mission HomeGround Project.
Debate adjudicators Honourable Justice Simon Moore of the High Court, Court of Appeal Justice Lyn Stevens, Debaters, Rt Hon Sir John Key, Tom Scott, David Downs, Katherine Anderson, Kathryn Beck and Michael Timmins, provided much entertainment and hilarity, the photos from the event tell it all, http://picti.net/kJ1q6
MC for the evening Miriama Kamo took the event to a whole other level, her professionalism along with her natural warmth ensured the event ran smoothly.
Last week, we noted that "Susan Benedek, James Hook, Gareth Juddery, Christine Fenby and Byran Theunisen, joined forces to form team Downtown Riser Racing Rotarians to compete in the annual Step Up Challenge - the race to the top of Sky Tower - as a fundraiser for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand". We've now received the official photo to share.
Great having Sir Jim McLay at the club today and hearing about his experience as NZ Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, amongst a whole host of other roles - including formerly as Deputy Prime Minister.
On Friday, Susan Benedek, Gareth Juddery, Christine Fenby and Byran Theunisen, joined forces to form team Downtown Riser Racing Rotarians to compete in the annual Step Up Challenge - the race to the top of Sky Tower - as a fundraiser for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand.
Great to have Shane Ellison, CEO at Auckland Transport, and Ludo Campbell-Reid Hon DINZ, Urban Design Champion at Auckland Council, at the club on Tuesday morning to talk about transport in Auckland.
On Tuesday, the 30thof July we welcomed the 26 RYLA students who were put forward by our club. They all held a little presentation about their experience and what they learned from their trainers. Listening to the Rylarians was very inspiring for all club members. We got to know 26 very different characters, but they all had something in common: They were radiant, they beamed with pride about what they had managed during the week and about their growth and what’s more: they were confident of becoming a good leader.
We have a fantastic line up of personalities for the night, a carefully selected group of 'Celebrities' - Rt Hon Sir John Key, Tom Scott and David Downs versus the 'Legal Beagle' team of Kathryn Beck, Katherine Anderson and Michael Timmins. Adjudicators of the debate are QC’s Simon Moore and Lynton (Lyn) Stevens, along with Miriama Kamo, our MC for the evening.
You will be wined and dined in style at the Cordis Hotel, with the opportunity to purchase some fabulous auction items, knowing that you are supporting a wonderful cause.
Club member Susanne Loesser was touring around Milan and while looking at her city map, was approached by an Italian man who offered to help. As he couldn't speak much English, he pointed to his Rotary pin. Susanne managed to explain that she was a Rotarian as well. A few minutes later, he showed her to where they hold their Rotary meetings in a very old villa.
Just goes to show there are helpful Rotarians everywhere!
Earlier this week Gill sent out a quick 1-question survey to help incoming President Byran complete his preparation for his 2019-2020 Presidential year.
Please look in your mailbox for an email from Gill dated 16th June which has a survey monkey link.
New Name Badges Are COMING! Please make sure to provide Past President Gill with 1) your preferred name for the new badge, 2) whether you would like a new Rotary Pin (also magnetic) and 3) if you have a pace maker and will need a clip instead of magnet.
Please get this information to Gill ASAP - so we can all be ready to go for the new Rotary year.
On 21st May, Karen demonstrated how to make 7 different Asian inspired goodies (Asian fish cakes, prawn wontons, Vietnamese cha ca fish noodles, Carmelised pork & grilled pineapple/veggies w/ coconut rice amongst others) to 22 of our Downtowners, family & friends.
Many thanks to Karen & Grant Hallyfor also generously donating $400 from the event to KiwiHarvest.
Wow! What a conference. We laughed, we cried and were inspired after hearing some great speakers share their personal stories of self-reflection and courage to step out of their comfort zone to achieve great things - both in the community and within themselves as leaders. Our team of Downtowners had a fantastic time getting to meet other Rotarians from around our District during the cocktails and networking sessions. We also learned about the various projects ranging from dictionaries for schools, water guttering and storage systems in Africa, fundraisers, and also a pitch from the current year's Rotary Youth Exchange Students for more host families to help support the program. The day and a half conference was also very effective in sharing best practices and ideas such as Dr. Tom Mulholland's KYND software app which helps individuals measure they overall wellbeing (https://www.kyndwellness.com). John Boscawen also introduced Gill & I to the Former Chair of the International Committee from Suva (and current Club President) who shared with us a local perspective of how the SPBD Microfinancing Program in Fiji is taking off and changing lives. More info in a separate story coming soon.
(John, Gill & President John Bainbridge from Suva Rotary, Lucy)
Trees for Survival is an environmental education programme which involves young people growing and planting native trees to restore natural habitats by helping landowners revegetate erosion prone land, improve stream flow and water quality and increase biodiversity. The Trees for Survival programme creates community partnerships by engaging schools, their community, local businesses and Councils all working together to restore our natural heritage.
Come out for one of our Tree Planting days at the following schools listed below:
Brian, Mike (and their lovely wives Sue & Cheryl), made it back to Auckland. Apparently there were "Banger window shopping" for their trip next year...
What's going to happen to Little Red?
Brian, Sue & Mike Made it to Bluff and Back...
As you are aware from last week’s bulletin, as a result of the generosity of Mal McLennan and other members of the club, we have been able to increase to the Trust capital by $102,500, whereby now stands at approximately $220,000.
As was advised at the Club’s AGM last December, the Trustees have resolved to undertake investment of the capital with the aim of increasing both income and capital growth.
The first initiative being a loan of of NZ$25,000 to SPBD Singapore to be on lent as micro-financing for particular purposes to individuals in the Pacific Islands, expected to be in Fiji. The loan will be for a period of 3 years with an interest rate of 6%. The Trustees have received confirmation that the Trust’s tax free Charitable Status is not exposed by the making of the loan outside New Zealand.
The Trustees are in process of completing the loan documentation with the intention that the loan be advanced within the next month.
The Trustees are cognisant of the need to diversity investments other than through the SPBD loan and bank term deposits and to seek capital growth of the Trust fund. Representatives of the Trust have met with a Fund investment advisor and the Trustees have resolved to invest up to N$100,000 in a diversified income fund being a conservative fund managed through the investment advisors firm. These funds can be redeemed on short notice.
The Trustees are in the process of completing all documentation and expect the initial investment to be made within he next month with funds to be invested as term deposits mature.
As to the balance of capital, being approximately $95,000 the Trustees will be arranging for this sum to be initially placed on term deposit while they consider it’s appropriate investment but ensuring diversification of the Trust’s investments.
Highlights of Auckland City Mission Foodservice for the Homeless (by Gareth Juddery)
Today we had a group of 5 Rotarians : Gareth, James PFL, Des, Mark J and Weilian (potential new member) and three people (Hayley, Eloise & Frances) from Dils Funeral Services on hand to help deliver meals at the Auckland City Mission.
RMHC Cook Nite - 14 members and friends prepared meals for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House and served approximately 100 meals. It was a great turnout and wonderful atmosphere. Thanks to our members and friends: Jan Malcolm, James PFL, Gareth & Kat, Pam & Alan Deal & their exchange student, Suzanne O'Leary and her two sons & friend, Frankie, Celia & Liz Thomson.
Every year our Club has sent a number of well deserving young adults to RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). We need volunteer interviewers to help with the selection process. Please contact Suzanne O’Leary for more information.
Calling for volunteers to help interview RYLA candidates
To celebrate 30 years of “Woman in Rotary”, D9910 & D9920 invite you to a “Fun 5km Walk” around Wynyard Quarter & Westhaven area on Saturday 6th April. (Rain, hail or shine, we are doing this……)
We will gather from 9am for a 9.30am start, at Wynyard Quarter Playground (Jellicoe Rd). Please note we will start & finish at the same spot for ease of parking. Gold coin donation for all attending, going to Polio Plus campaign.
As we want to promote Rotary, please wear Rotary branded t-shirts and/or caps. We have a limited quantity of new, bright lime green “Woman in Rotary” t-shirts for a $10 donation (Polio Plus for D9920). First in, first served for the current allocation, so pre order via e-mail to Leanne. Note t-shirt sizing on the small side, so it is recommended to go up one from your usual size (S,M,L,XL,2XL available).
Afterwards, head home to continue your day, or stop for a well-deserved coffee or something stronger. Lots of great cafes & restaurants around the immediate area. Register interest via e-mail to Leanne leanne@searlegroup.co.nz On registration, we will send you a map of the walk with additional information for the event.
Pam Deal shared with our Club a way to help the Rotary Club of Henderson fundraise for a major project aimed to send all Year 12 students from all West Auckland High Schools through the Roary Youth Driving Awareness (RYDA) driver education course.
All you need to do is vote online at www.milliondollarmission.co.nz from 1st March 2019
Each vote is worth $5 to The Trusts who will donate to the program.
Vote for the Trust's Million Dollar Mission - RYDA
Angela Caughey (author of books on Dementia), recommends everyone to get a good nights sleep as a way to increase brain health. In addition to avoiding alcohol and caffeine after 7pm, she also recommends stop using computers, i-pads etc. after dark because of blue light emitted from these devices, interferes with melatonin production. For those of you who are addicted to your screens, Kenneth Winstone provides a solution to help you stay connected while combating computer blue light emissions.
Our Downtown Club is fortunate to have a wonderful sister-club relationship with Osaka Dojima Rotary Club. Many of us have hosted our fellow Rotarians here in Auckland and have also traveled to Japan to visit them. How many of you would like to learn more about the Japanese Culture?
Downtowners Mike Campbell, Graham Hendry & Greg Moyle were part of a group of 14 Rotarians and 5 friends of members who joined forces on a 28 day tour of Sri Lanka, India, Sikkim and Nepal. Mike & Sheryl extended their trip to 36 days so they could include other regions such as Rajastan & Mumbai. While Mike states the purpose was to enjoy 36 days of curry, the highlights show otherwise. Read more below.
With today's technology of credit cards, EFTPOS, Paywave etc. not many of us are carrying cash in our wallets and the Sunshine fund is not getting as many donations each week as it used to from the Sergeants session.
Yacht Meet-up, First Meeting @ Northern Club, Registration & Other Useful Info for 2019
The Noticeboard will be on a break for the next 5 weeks. However, the latest activities planned for 2019 will still be posted on the website, so make sure to check it out to stay up to date.
To ease our way in the New Year, our first Rotary meet-up will be on luxury yacht The Savoy on 22 January 2019. Come join us for a casual get together with wine & nibbles, good conversations and fun. There are limited seats left so please go onto Clubrunner to register attendance to avoid disappointment.
We will begin our regular breakfast meeting at the Northern Club from 5th February, 2019. Stay tune for more information about the Speakers for the day.
We are going to start trialing Club Meeting Registration via club runner for our 5th February meeting. As with all other Rotary events, you will receive an email from Lucy (sent out by Dan) which will provide you with the meeting details. There will be a link for you to "accept/decline" attendance through your email. Please look out for an email notice mid January. Alternatively, you can go online to our Club website to register yourself and guests.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health is an area of concern our Club members feel passionate about. Join us for a free public lecture by Dr. Helen Christensen, visiting scholar from University of New South Wales and leading expert on using technology to deliver evidence-based interventions for th prevention & treatment of depression, anxiety, suicide and self-harm.
This public lecture is supported by our Club with the generous sponsorship of the Ted and Mollie Carr Medical Travel Fund.
Bryan & Sue Coyte's daughtergave birth to healthy twin boys on 23 November - making Bryan and Sue lucky grandparents of two more additions to the family. Make sure to ask to see photos of the gorgeous babies and congratulate them for being “grandparents extraordinaire”.
Congratulations to Bryan & Sue Coyte - Happy Grandparents
Downtown Rotarians with Dr. Sergei Gulyaev (Director of the IRASR) in front of 30m RadioTelescope
Twenty three of us braved the wind and rain on Saturday 24th Nov and made our way up to the Warkworth Radio Astronomical Observatory for an interesting tour of the 30meter RadioTelescope that is operated by Institute of Radio Astronomy & Space Research (IRASR) of Auckland University of Technology.
In the Supper Club Recipe Book you’ll find incredible gems from top restaurants which support Ronald McDonald House Supper Club events around the country.
You will also find some every day favourites lovingly gifted by families who have stayed at the House.
By purchasing this book, you will help provide a “home away from home” for families in need.
- All production costs have been covered by Sponsors so by buying this book 100% of sales go to the Ronald McDonald Houses
- Great for yourself or as a gift
- Superb quality packed with awesome meal ideas
- Hardback full colour over 200 pages
- Cost $45
Mark Jenkins will have a copies at our Tuesday meetings
CAROLE, FRANKIE, AND LUCY HONED THEIR HANDS-ON COOKING SKILLS AT THE ROTARACT COOKING CLASS WITH VANESSA BAXTER
FUNDS RAISED FROM THIS EVENT GOES TOWARDS THE REBUILD OF SAINT FRANCIS SCHOOL LIBRARY IN FIJI
What a great turn-out with Rotarians from St. John's, Auckland, and Harbourside Club in attendance. Things really started to heat up with the competition on whose food turned out best. We did a pretty good job- judge for yourself.
As part of the Auckland Heritage Festival on Saturday 6th October, four Downtown Rotarians (Phil Caughey, Mike Campbell, Karyn Spencer and David Graham), assisted with the Hillary Leadership Centre's Open House.
The house is located on school grounds near the entrance to the Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate Senior School in Franklyne Road, Otara
Child and adolescent mental health is a very serious problem in NZ. New Zealand has the highest rate of teenage suicides amongst all OECD countries.
Led by our Champion Graham Hendry, we are striving to support positive change by funding programmes that give clinicians access to the best practise solutions to help with their diagnosis and treatment.
On 22 September, Gareth was one of 5 judges at AGGS to judge teams from 65 year 10 students as they came to the close of their 3 day Business Challenge. Students grouped into companies, decided on a hypothetical product, write a business strategy, ‘sell’ their product, and launch their idea at an oral competition of the final day.
What a great turnout at our Fundraising dinner on 25 September at Wine Chambers!
62 guests including DG Ingrid Waugh, Rotarians, RYLARians, Rotaractors, corporate clients and supporters of Child & Adolescent Mental Health and Edmund Hillary Primary School all came out to listen to Michelle A'Court share with us her personal story about how she became a comedienne and the inspiration to her best selling books.
It was a great night out. Thanks to everyone for their support in making it happen.
ROMAC in Action - with help from our Club member Liz Thomson.
Another young life changed by the help of ROMAC...
Regine came to Auckland and had her surgery on Friday 5th October. She is here until end of November. For those interested to know more, please contact Liz.
Downtown members - Kat, Gareth, Carole, Frankie, Tim, Celia, Graham, and James prepared a home-cooked meal for the families staying at Ronald McDonald House in Grafton Mews.
Downtown Auckland Rotary Club working alongside PWC, KPMG, Deloittes, Kotahi and ASB sent 19 young people to this years RYLA programme. Along with young people from their own companies, they also sponsored applicants from CureKids, World Vision, Ronald McDonald House, Leukemia & Blood Cancer, Auckland Girls Grammar School and the Graeme Dingle Foundation. Downtown member Pam Deal along with husband Alan were this years camp Mum and Dad. Caroline Ash was the recipient of the Graeme Campbell Scholarship, she receives $1000 to use towards further Leadership education.
James Langton (Champion of Auckland City Mission) is organising a tinned food collection for the City Mission. Please bring your donated tinned goods to the next meeting 4 Sept.
Please show your support and contribute where you can. Drivers may also be required to help with logistics. Contact James for more information on how you can help.
At the District Changeover, John Boscawen was awarded the Dr. Catherine Hamlin - Rotarian of the Year award which our own member PDG Colin Nicholas created in 2006. PDG Malini selected John because “he is always very generous with his time and resources when it comes to Rotary… He has also made significant monetary contributions towards a now approved Microfinance global grant in Fiji which will enable small grassroots businesses in the rural areas of Fiji to get off the ground.” It was an extensive process that took a lot of time, perseverance, and collaboration across the clubs of Rotary Club of Suva, Auckland Rotary and Downtown Rotary to raise the NZ$100,000 which will make a big difference to the lives of many families in Fiji.
At the RYLA graduation dinner, Hilary Prior was awarded her third Paul Harris Fellow in recognition for her number of years fantastic service to RYLA. Going well beyond the call of duty to manage the many issues that arise before, during and after the event. A fabulous and highly regarded stalwart of RYLA.
Congratulations to both John & Hilary for their outstanding leadership & service to the community.
I am Hannah Sidonie Schwarzmann and I am a Rotary Youth Exchange student in District 9920 in Auckland 2017/18. I was hosted by the Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland.
During my Exchange I lived with several host families and went to St Cuthberts College in Epsom.
I arrived in New Zealand on the 30th of July 2017.
A BIG THANK YOU to all the members who bought raffle tickets (especially those who bought more than 1!). The girls are very happy to report they raised the $350 needed to print the Mindfulness Journals as part of the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Competition. A special thank you to Rob Wills for buying the gift basket in the end for $60 and to winner Peter Wilson for auctioning off the prize.
Auckland Girls Grammar School- Team Universal Fundraiser
Keith Robinson and Kerryn Downey both enjoyed an excellent time in the sunshine picking vegies at the growers in Pukekohe. Ably assisted by Gary from the grower they filled all the boxes and were back at KiwiHarvest HQ by 2:30pm. KiwiHarvest were thrilled to bits with a van load of fresh produce, some of which was immediately despatched to an agency feeding families in Penrose. The rest was distributed the following day.
Many thanks to Rob and Joanne Wills, Tony Gardner, Keith and Heather Robinson who went over to Motuihe Island last Sunday to help with the tree planting. By all reports a good day was had by all, with the added bonus being the sighting of a Tuatara on the Island.
We will let you know when the next tree planting day is going to be held.
Downtown Auckland Rotary members helping with the packing of some Emergency Response Kits (ERK’s). Rotary ERK’s are intended for use in civil disasters such as cyclones and floods in the Pacific Islands, and in particular, to assist families survive the first days after the disaster until large scale aid reaches them.
Yes, President Gill successfully completed the SkyTower jump on Wednesday 9th May in support of the Graeme Dingle Foundation and has the tee-shirt to prove it, that's Gill in the photo!
Many thanks to all those who supported this and we're thrilled to announce that Gill raised in excess of $2,800.
Music has been an important part of leading an ordinary life for students at the Music School for Children With Disabilities in Honor of Paul Harris in Lublin, Poland. Founded by Rotary members, the school serves 20 students with various disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, and visual impairments. The Rotary Club of Lublin-Centrum-Maria Curie-Sklodowska has provided funding with help from Rotary Foundation Matching Grants and the Henryk Wieniawski Musical Society, which houses the school.
After their son Mateusz was born with underdeveloped eyes, Mariusz and Joanna Kania looked for ways to help him be active. When he showed an aptitude for music, they looked for a teacher and were thrilled to find the Paul Harris music school.
For years, Angalia Bianca had slept in abandoned buildings throughout Chicago. She stole. She did drugs. She spent time in and out of jail for forgery, theft, trespassing, and possession of narcotics. But after she landed in prison for the seventh time, something changed -- Bianca knew she wanted a better life. She just didn’t know how to make it happen.
After serving her time, Bianca sought help from a local homeless organization, A Safe Haven, and moved to its shelter in the Rogers Park neighborhood. Bianca followed the program closely -- she attended all the required meetings, passed drug tests, and volunteered at every opportunity.
What is it like taking a large team to Africa? It has probably been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. In mid February, I began leading Rotary members from all over the East Coast of the United States through Ghana. I’ve tried to give the team a warm Ghanaian welcome like I’ve received on my earlier trips. A large trip is a real blessing because each person sees Ghana and our work in a different way.
A highlight for the team was greeting the chief of Sagadugu. The team got excited about buying goats and food for children in the villages where I support eight churches. It was good to see the pastors of most of the eight churches, and I had to explain that we were just passing through on our way to Bolgatanga.
Throughout India and around the world, Rotary clubs are celebrating a major milestone: India has gone three years without a new case of polio. The last reported case was a two-year-old girl in West Bengal on 13 January 2011. To mark this historic triumph, Rotary clubs illuminated landmarks and iconic structures throughout the country with four simple but powerful words, "India is polio free."
The three-year achievement sets the stage for polio-free certification of the entire Southeast Asia region by the World Health Organization. The Indian government also plans to convene a polio summit in February to commemorate this victory in the global effort to eradicate polio.
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I am Hannah Sidonie Schwarzmann and I am a Rotary Youth Exchange student in District 9920 in Auckland 2017/18. I was hosted by the Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland..png)
Many thanks to Rob and Joanne Wills, Tony Gardner, Keith and Heather Robinson who went over to Motuihe Island last Sunday to help with the tree planting. By all reports a good day was had by all, with the added bonus being the sighting of a Tuatara on the Island..jpg)
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For years, Angalia Bianca had slept in abandoned buildings throughout Chicago. She stole. She did drugs. She spent time in and out of jail for forgery, theft, trespassing, and possession of narcotics. But after she landed in prison for the seventh time, something changed -- Bianca knew she wanted a better life. She just didn’t know how to make it happen.
What is it like taking a large team to Africa? It has probably been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. In mid February, I began leading Rotary members from all over the East Coast of the United States through Ghana. I’ve tried to give the team a warm Ghanaian welcome like I’ve received on my earlier trips. A large trip is a real blessing because each person sees Ghana and our work in a different way.
Throughout India and around the world, Rotary clubs are celebrating a major milestone: India has gone three years without a new case of polio. The last reported case was a two-year-old girl in West Bengal on 13 January 2011. To mark this historic triumph, Rotary clubs illuminated landmarks and iconic structures throughout the country with four simple but powerful words, "India is polio free."