Welcome to the first Bulletin for 2021. I trust everyone had the opportunity to connect with loved ones over the Christmas and New Year period, although for some, once again, COVID-19 restrictions did prevent special plans from going ahead. I wish everyone a safe and prosperous year and look forward to seeing you at our meetings and events as they occur throughout the year.
At our AGM and subsequent Board meeting on 14th December, we discussed what our meetings will look like this year. It is hoped we can continue to have regular face to face meetings at the Commonwealth Club and interspersed with some less formal activities and the occasional Zoom meeting to allow others not physically in Canberra to also join in.
You may have noticed a couple of changes to our Board last year. Judith Connelly has not been able to continue in her role as Secretary because of work commitments and Helen Moore has generously stepped back into the role - thank you Helen. Director Betsy Dixon has swapped with President Elect Sandra Turner as Betsy is our contact for the upcoming Rotary Peace Walk and Sandra has been learning to manage the website and Bulletin production. I thank everyone for their flexibility.
Like most, I was pleased to see the end of 2020 and hope we can begin to see the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel in the coming months. Our first activity for the year was a relaxed BBQ/picnic on the 11th January near the Nara Peace Bell by the Lake. Long-term Rotarian, Lachlan Lewis, took a ritual dip on behalf of everyone in Lake Burley Griffin at the event and says this year he will celebrate being a Rotarian for 50 years. Lachie is a living example of what vigorous daily exercise can do to preserve the mind and spirit. Well done Lachie. Go for Gold in 2021!
We have some very interesting speakers for the next few meetings and also a vocational visit to the Early Morning Centre in February, as well as the chance to have more fellowship and some fun at barefoot bowls later in the month. Please keep an eye out on our Facebook page for updates in-between Bulletins.