Officer Training

All members of the executive received training on updating our club website. All members found it quite easy to update, and we look forward to many more news items from our executive team. Thanks to John Lizzio and Integrated Solutions for allowing us to use their office, computer training room and coffee machine.

TLI training was also presented this month, however the responses from our executive have been overwhelmingly disappointed. I am pleased to announce though that our Area Governor Anne McKinnon has raised the inadequate training at a recent Northern Division meeting and is possibly designing our next training date.

Funding Application

John Lizzio and I have beavered away on a hefty application for funding to purchase equipment to assist us in our speech polishing. We are seeking almost $8,000, and look to purchase a PA system with microphones, a video camera and a projector with a screen.

I Love Cairns Speech Competition

I am immensely proud of the amazing effort invested in the inaugural I Love Cairns speech competition by our members, but of course most proud of the 1st and 2nd place getters, Celia Berrell and Rod Sheather. Celia won $500 for her efforts, and officially opened Speakers’ Corner in City Place, and Rod won the People’s Choice award taking home a beautiful hamper donated by Jill Morris at Simply Hampers.

Thank you to John Lizzio and Kaj Haffenden for their Herculean efforts with the microphones, audio and PA system. Anne McKinnon for judging the competition and Cheryl McLeod for coming along and supporting our speakers.

Strategic Direction

I have recently been appointed the Northern Division member of the District 69 Strategic Direction committee which gives us a strong voice in the future of our District. My expertise with regards to the web, internet marketing and social media will be utilised heavily.

Club Visits

Anne, Kaj and I continue to visit the Innisfail club to boost their numbers and assist with their growth. Any other members who are looking for additional speech opportunities please car pool with us on the 1st and 3rd Monday nights of the month. We have also attended the Marlin Coast club to assist with their recent competitions.

I am continually on the lookout for new ideas and inspiration from the meetings of other clubs to assist our club in future growth and opportunities.