Elmbrook Rotary Club President Tom Curl shared his presentation on the 105th annual Rotary International Convention in Sydney Australia at our meeting on August 15. He and his wife Lynda attended the convention and following are some of Tom's notes from their trip.

 

It's hard to find words to describe the experience.  "Educational, broadening, informative" come to mind.  Most of all, though, it was  inspirational .  The plenary sessions featured speakers who are making a difference in the world through programs ranging from basic sanitation (Professor Jack Sim, aka "Mr. Toilet") to a music program for destitute Indian children with life-threatening illnesses (started by Brett Lee, Australia's legendary cricket player who routinely threw at speeds equal to those of the best pitchers in baseball). And, of course, we heard an update on Rotary's signature international service project, eradicating polio in the three remaining countries where the disease is still endemic.

There were more than 90 informational break-out sessions.  Lynda generously took notes at sessions when I needed to be elsewhere.  I came back with some good ideas, along with a renewed appreciation for the good things our club is already doing.

Finally, it was inspiring to meet a few of the 18,000 Rotarians from all over the world who are making our planet a better place. I will condense my notes and give everyone a more complete report at an upcoming club meeting.  In the meantime, thanks to everyone in the Club for giving us this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Tom Curl
President, Elmbrook Rotary Club

 

 
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