The Weekend Goulash Newsletter

The Weekend Goulash Newsletter
12 May 2022
 
 
   
We had a successful Lawson Breakfast Club on Friday. I would, once again, like to thank our wonderful volunteers; we all work together like a well-oiled machine.
 
  I must share this with you; a little young lady approached me as I was doing a playground check for cups, and very seriously told me how much she appreciated all the work and yummy food that we produce every Friday.  I told her she was welcome and started to walk away, however she stepped in front of me again, pulled herself up straight and tall to say:  “on behalf of ALL Lawson Public School I would like to thank you for providing us with breakfast”. I was speechless, how nice is that? This is my favourite project.
 
Our 11th May meeting was great, we listened to guests Phill Isaacs and Bill Pixton from Upper Blue Sunrise speak so passionately about their projects;
  • Bill about homelessness, the need for a block of land, to build Tiny Homes in conjunction with Wentworth Housing and  
  • Phill telling us about ABCD, the Association of Bell Clarence & Dargan Inc.  This was formed after the Black Summer fires of December 2019 and has recently been formed in collaboration with the Blue Mountains Rotary Clubs. The association wants to build a large community hall (at Clarence) so that people can meet in a safe place to discuss issues during a disaster.  
Lithgow Council has provided a block of land for this purpose. The ABCD has received a Grant of $130,000.00 and Phill has made a submission for a Global Grant to assist with the approval process and to help with the fit-out. All the Upper Mountains Rotary Clubs are being asked to contribute.  
  • Bill finished up by telling us about the “Push up the challenge.” The challenge is to do 3,139 push-ups over the 24 days between 1 June and 24 June. The significance of 3,139 is that is how many people have died from suicide in 2020.  The money raised is for Lifeline to help with suicide prevention and related family trauma.
 
Brian Turner spoke about Pride of Workmanship and reminded us about this prestigious award. He is encouraging as many members and their family and friends to attend this function.  Please let Brian or I know (or you can register on our Club’s web page by clicking on 26 May on the calendar and following the prompts) that you are coming by the 20th May. 
 
Guest Speaker, Eric Cantor.  
This was a fascinating tale of the Austro/Hungarian Cantor’s history. From the Viennese Grossmutter with her mother starting a home for young unwed mothers in Vienna, through to Eric’s involvement and fundraising for International Children’s Aid in Sri Lanka, to a Rotary Project supplying over 100 milking buffalos to impoverished villagers in Andre Pradesh in India to now being an advocate for poor undereducated girls in Nepal.
He entertained us with his family’s history, with his adventures around the world. His final plea was to encourage donations to boost the Club’s allocated funding for Sakriya Lama and Manish Lama, two new girls that have been brought into the Astha Home.  The goal is to raise an additional $1,000.
To start the ball rolling Eric committed to donating $200 and has asked other members of the Club to make contributions. Cash (to Eric or Lora) or direct deposit to the Charities Account, BSB 633 000 ACN 182 082 487, marked with your surname and “Sakriya and Manish” so we know what the deposit is for.
Thank you very much, Eric.
 
The survey:  I was very pleased to have six completed surveys placed in the “poll” box. Some members apologised to me as they had forgotten to bring their survey to the meeting.  What a great start, thank you and I look forward to receiving the rest of them in the next coming weeks.  Remember I need them before the 15th of June.  
 
My planning committee and I have been working on our agenda from May to 30 June. The burning question being “change over”, do we hold it at the Grandview?  Do you want it to be at an ordinary Wednesday meeting or do we make it a Sunday lunch so that family and friends can join us?  Possible dates are Wednesday 29th June or Sunday the 4th July (that will be with apple pie). Please let me know your thoughts, sooner rather than later.
 
 A number of Club Directors are required to attend District training on 28 May at St Joseph’s in Bella Vista. Attending will be Elaine Manners (Youth), Eric Cantor (International), Ric Tasker (Community) and Brian Turner (Vocational).  
 
When the next BBQ van roster is published please see where you can help from towing the van to set-up, cooking and serving, maybe even being able to work through for the whole day.
 
Have a great week, stay safe and healthy.
 
Lora
President
 
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Astha Children’s Home for Girls, Nepal Justine Murphy 2019-03-14 13:00:00Z 0

Australia Day Family Fun Day

 

Australia Day Family Fun Day 2019

Australia Day 2019, saw Central Blue Mountains Rotary along with the four other Upper Blue Mountains Rotary Clubs and numerous local community organisations got together with friends and family at the Wentworth Falls Lake to celebrate our great Australian summer.  All those at The Lake on Australia Day 2019 enjoyed the 'fun in the sun', various musical performances, entertainment and a Fishing Competition.  Of course, all of this was accompanied by food and drinks of all descriptions.

Australia Day Family Fun Day Justine Murphy 2018-12-15 13:00:00Z 0
Our Vision and Mission Justine Murphy 2018-10-18 13:00:00Z 0
'HORIZONS" Archive Justine Murphy 2018-09-21 14:00:00Z 0

Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club History

Central Blue Mountains Rotary: Our Beginnings
 
 
 
 
 
As a group of dedicated people, Central Blue Mountains Rotary, over the past 43 years, has grown in strength to become recognised for its 'get up and go' attitude and determination to assist people locally and internationally whenever a need arises.
 
We have built a reputation in the community as People of Action!
 
It was an exciting occasion.  Wednesday, June 9, 1976, when the Rotary Club of Central Blue Mountains received its charter from the Governor, Rotary International, District 269, Allan L’Green. Held at Springwood Civic Centre, 29 Rotary Clubs were represented among the 434 people who attended the charter night presentation.
 
In his official message Allan L’Green said it had been 12 years since a Rotary club was first considered in this area but thanks to the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Katoomba, charter president Stephen Wright, and with assistance from local citizens, the charter was finally granted to the Rotary Club of Central Blue Mountains on May 22, 1976.
 
He said the formation of a Rotary club with members drawn from the citizens of the small communities that straddle the Great Western Highway as it winds its way along the mountain ridge from Woodford to Leura is significant to all Rotarians in District 269 and to the citizens of this area, which we have entitled the “Central Blue Mountains”.
 
It is the wish of us all that the new club will grow in strength and, like its sponsor club, Katoomba, will still be rendering great service to the community 40 years and more after receiving its charter.”
 
Official guests included mayor of Blue Mountains City Council, Ald. E.N. Lesslie and the State Member for Blue Mountains Ald. R.J. Clough, District Governor’s Representative Past president Terry Body and sponsor club President Allen Dickinson, Katoomba Rotary.
 
The mayor said: We are indeed fortunate to have so many service clubs in our area, the members of which are always ready and willing to serve the community and assist those in less fortunate circumstances.”
Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club History Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Hampers for the Needy

Mid-Year and Christmas Hampers
Central Blue Mountains Rotary has, since around 2002, been assembling and delivering food hampers in July and December each year.
 
The hampers go to families in need in the upper and mid mountains and are distributed by our partner local neighbourhood centres and community groups.
 
Delivering the goods: Rotarians Chris Van der Kley and Steve Gillett 
Bulk goods awaiting packing for distributionPacked and ready for distribution
It's all happening !  Almost ready for distribution !Rotarians Tom Hickey and Chris Van der Kley loaded up and about ready to commence distribution.
Hampers for the Needy Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Food Hampers for the Local Community

Food Hampers for the Local Community
Central Blue Mountains Rotary supports the disadvantaged folk in the local community with the donation of goods fro food hampers.  The hampers are distributed twice an year at Christmas and mid-year.
 
In early December 2018 hamper goods were delivered to Blue Mountains Family Support Inc (Thrive) and to Mid Mountains Neighbourhood Centre for inclusion in food hampers to be distributed to families for Christmas.
 
Rotarians and staff members of "THRIVE" during the delivery of food for hampers.
 
CBM Rotary received the following in acknowledgements:
"A big thank you for the donation again this year. We know that there are a  lot of  families and individuals in the mountains that will really appreciate this gift. Also thank you for the support that you give Thrive services throughout the year. It is really appreciated throughout the community.
Kind regards,   Jaime Mack, Coordinator, Blue Mountains Family Support Inc (Thrive)"
 
"Dear Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club,
Thank you so much for your wonderful food hamper donations delivered this Christmas. lt's always lovely when your team turn up with goodies. Your continued generosity and efforts ensure that some of our families and individuals will eat better than they have in a long while this week. Having food provisions onsite also creates an opportunity for us to connect with the community and often increases our ability to ascertain if further help is needed. Many of our hamper recipients are some of our most needy who quite often go unnoticed. This is the third Christmas that you have included Mid Mountains Neighbourhood Centre in your distribution and we really appreciate all your efforts.
Regards,
Danielle Wilding-Forbes,  Community Development Worker, Mid Mountains Neighbourhood Centre"
 
CBM Rotary utilises approximately $1,600.00 of the funds raised from various functions during the year.
 
CBM Rotary also delivered 250 wrapped Christmas gifts to a number of community support organisations throughout the Blue mountains.  The 250 gifts were donated to our "Christmas Giving Tree" located outside Woolworths' Supermarket, Leura. Many thanks to 'Woolworths' for their generous use of their space at Leura and Katoomba along with their kind cooperation in allowing our 'Santa' to be on hand for the many children and families visiting Woolworths.
 
The following 'Thank You' note was received from 'Thrive Services'.
 
"Thanks so much for your special delivery of Christmas gifts this morning.  Could you please extend our appreciation to all at Central Blue Mountains Rotary.  We’ve already managed to give some out to families that have come in already.  I wish you all the best for Christmas & New Year – hope you have a happy & safe holidays.  Lots of cheer,
Angelique 
Sasagi | Executive Officer, 
Blue Mountains Family Support Service Inc."
 
Food Hampers for the Local Community Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

CBM Rotary Supporting Local 'Days for Girls' Chapter

Support for Local Chapter of 'Days for Girls'
 
In early December 2018 CBM Rotarians Ava and Lora were delighted to spend the morning with 'Days For For Girls' Vice President Margaret. 
 
The Club donated a further $300 to support the work of the Emu Plains Chapter.
 
Ava and Lora with the three of the Emu Plains 'Days for Girls' team
 
 
 
CBM Rotary Supporting Local 'Days for Girls' Chapter Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0
Days for Girls Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0
'HORIZONS" Archive (TWO) John Sim 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0
Lift the Lid Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Rotary Foundation

 
The Rotary Foundation is a non-profit corporation that supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs. It is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world.
 
The Foundation was created in 1917 as an endowment fund for Rotary "to do good in the world." It has grown from an initial contribution of US$26.50 to more than US$1 billion. It has one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world.
 
The following programs are funded and driven by the Rotary Foundation.
 
Polio Eradication
 
Rotarians have mobilised by the hundreds of thousands to ensure that children are immunised against this crippling disease and that surveillance is strong despite the poor infrastructure, extreme poverty and civil strife of many countries.  
 
Since the program’s inception in 1985 more than two billion children have received oral polio vaccine. Since 1988, we’ve seen a worldwide reduction in polio cases of 99.9%. 2017 saw wild polio cases in only three countries. From the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988, more than 17.4 million people, mainly in the developing world, who would otherwise have been paralysed, are walking because they have been immunised against polio. More than 650,000 paralytic cases of polio are now prevented every year.
 
By the time the world is certified polio-free, the Rotary Foundation’s contributions to the global polio eradication effort will exceed US$2.2 billion. 
 
Humanitarian Grants Program
Disaster Recovery: Facilitates club efforts to support disaster preparedness and recovery.
 
District Simplified Grants: Support for short-term service activities or humanitarian endeavours of districts in communities locally or internationally.  This program began in 2003–2004 and projects in 44 countries at a cost of US$5.2 million were awarded.
 
Matching Grants: Provide matching funds for the international service projects of Rotary clubs and districts.  Since 1965, more than 20,000 Matching Grants projects in 166 countries have been funded at a cost of more than US$198 million.
 
Educational Programs
Group Study Exchange (GSE): These annual awards are made to paired Rotary districts to provide travel expenses for a team of non-Rotarians from a variety of vocations.  Rotarian hosts organize a four- to six-week itinerary of educational and cultural points of interest.  Since 1965, almost 48,000 individuals in more than 11,000 teams from more than 100 countries have participated at a cost of US$85 million.
 
Rotary Peace Fellowships: Up to 100 fellows are selected every year in a globally competitive process based on personal, academic, and professional achievements.  Fellows earn a master’s-level degree or a professional development certificate in peace and conflict studies at one of six Rotary Peace Centres at leading universities in Australia, England, Sweden, Japan, the United States and Thailand.
 
A Short History of the Rotary Foundation
In 1917, RI President Arch C. Klumph proposed that an endowment be set up “for the purpose of doing good in the world.”  In 1928, when the endowment fund had grown to more than US$5,000, it was renamed The Rotary Foundation, and it became a distinct entity within Rotary International. Five Trustees, including Klumph, were appointed to “hold, invest, manage, and administer all of its property...as a single trust, for the furtherance of the purposes of RI.”   Two years later, the Foundation made its first grant of $500 to the International Society for Crippled Children.
 
The Great Depression and World War II both impeded the Foundation’s growth, but the need for lasting world peace generated great post war interest in its development.  After Rotary’s founder, Paul P. Harris  died in 1947, contributions began pouring into Rotary International, and the Paul Harris Memorial Fund was created to build the Foundation.
 
That year, the first Foundation program – the forerunner of Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarships – was established.   In 1965-66, three new programs were launched: Group Study Exchange, Awards for Technical Training, and Grants for Activities in Keeping with the Objective of The Rotary Foundation, which was later called Matching Grants.
 
The Health, Hunger and Humanity (3-H) Grants program was launched in 1978, and Rotary Volunteers was created as a part of that program in 1980.  PolioPlus was announced in 1984-85, and the next year brought Rotary Grants for University Teachers.  The first peace forums were held in 1987-88, leading to the Foundation's peace and conflict studies programs.
 
Throughout this time, support of the Foundation grew tremendously.  Since the first donation of $26.50 in 1917, it has received contributions totaling more than $1 billion.  More than $70 million was donated in 2003-04 alone.  To date, more than one million individuals have been recognised as Paul Harris Fellows – people who have given US$1,000 to the Annual Programs Fund or have had that amount contributed in their name.
 
Such strong support, along with Rotarian involvement worldwide, ensures a secure future for The Rotary Foundation as it continues its vital work for international understanding and world peace.
 
The Rotary Foundation Goals
♦   Eradicate polio, our top priority
♦    Build a sense of ownership of our Foundation among Rotarians through their contributions to the Annual Programs Fund, the Permanent Fund, and our Rotary Peace Centres
♦   Continue our progress on the Future Vision plan and align our service projects with the six areas of focus
♦   Peace and conflict prevention/ resolution
♦   Disease prevention and treatment
♦   Water and sanitation
♦   Maternal and child health
♦   Basic education and literacy
♦   Economic and community development
Rotary Foundation Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Pride of Workmanship

Pride of Workmanship Awards
     
Central Blue Mountains Rotary conducts an annual Pride of Workmanship Awards Dinner, at which the Club recognises local businesses, entrepreneurs, tradespeople and other professionals for their outstanding contribution to their profession and/or the local community.   
 
The Pride of Workmanship Award, as a concept, was instigated by a number of Rotary clubs in Australia in 1975. A theme was developed as part of the programDo it once, Do it well, Build a Better Australia.

Pride of Workmanship Awards are now presented annually across many communities in Australia and have even extended into New Zealand.
 

Apart from the recognition of outstanding individuals in our community, the presentation of the Pride of Workmanship Awards is an excellent opportunity to network with local business leaders.

Pride of Workmanship Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Catering

Catering Services
 
 
One of the prominent fundraising activities of Central Blue Mountains Rotary is our mobile catering.  Our friendly Rotarians are regularly seen out there in the community proudly representing Rotary and serving delicious food and refreshments.
 
aside from regular catering at community events, we also jump in during times of need. For example, we've fed hundreds of firefighters during bushfires in the Blue Mountains.
 
With two BBQs, a bain-marie, fridge, hot water system, loads of storage bins, a pop-up gazebo to keep our volunteers out of the sun (or dry, depending on the mountain weather!) and stainless steel everywhere, our catering van is state of the art when it comes to Rotary catering.  
 
                     
Whenever or wherever you see us come and enjoy our delicious fare and meet some of our friendly Rotarians.
 
You might even consider learning more about the community service work we do across the Mountains and beyond. Have a chat with us, we'd be more than happy to tell you more.
Catering Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Trivia Night

Trivia Night
 
 
Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club conducts an Trivia Night from time to time to raise funds for local charities.
 
Raffles, Silent Auction and Auction with monster prizes in addition to the great team prizes for Trivia winners.
 
Bundles of friendship, fun, frivolity and laughter!
 
 
Keep an eye out on our facebook site and in local media for details of our next Trivia Night.
 
Trivia Night Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Garage Sale

Garage Sale
 
Related image
 
Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club conducts a Garage Sale from time to time to raise funds for our local projects.
 
Keep an eye out on our facebook site and in local media for details of our next Garage Sale.
 
We sincerely thank the local people who are kind enough to donate their unwanted goods for re-sale and those who come along and support the Garage Sale.
 
Garage Sale Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Book Sale

Book Sale
 
 
Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club conducts a Book Sale from time to time to raise funds for our local projects.
 
Keep an eye out on our facebook site and in local media for details of our next book sale.
 
We sincerely thank the local people who are kind enough to donate their unwanted books for re-sale and those who come along and support the Book Sale.
Book Sale Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Rotary's Areas of Focus

 
From humble beginnings in 1905, when founded by Chicago lawyer Paul Harris, Rotary has grown into an organisation with more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, with each and every member donating time and talent to serve both their own community and those in need around the world.
 
 Rotarians are leaders in their field who represent the values of integrity and ethics in business and within the community. They share a common purpose: to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards and help build goodwill and peace in the world.
 
Today, the power of Rotary is best demonstrated by the enormous success of their biggest ever project: the worldwide eradication of Polio. We have not yet reached that goal, however the end is very much in sight.
Membership of Rotary clubs is open to men and women of every ethnic group, political persuasion, language and religious belief. Rotary’s 34,000 clubs and 1.2 million members serve communities around the world, each with unique concerns and needs.
 
The most successful and sustainable Rotary service tends to fall within one of the following six strategic focus areas of Rotary:
 
►    Peace and conflict prevention/resolution
►     Disease prevention and treatment
►    Water and Sanitation
►    Maternal and child health
►    Basic education and literacy
►    Economic and community development
Rotary's Areas of Focus Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day - 24th October 2017

Posted on Sep 21, 2018
World Polio Day - 24th October 2018

World Polio Day was established by Rotary International over a decade ago to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis.

Use of this inactivated poliovirus vaccine and subsequent widespread use of the oral poliovirus, developed by Albert Sabin, led to the establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988.
 
As of 2013, GPEI had reduced polio worldwide by 99%.
 
World Polio Day - 24th October 2017 Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0
Rotary Links Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Handshake for Peace Memorial

Handshake for Peace Memorial
Lone Pine, Leura NSW
 
 
The Handshake for Peace Memorial, an initiative of Tom Colless OAM and Central Blue Mountains Rotary, in conjunction with the Ambassador of Turkey, His Excellency Mr Reha Keskintepe and Katoomba RSL, was unveiled Saturday, April 18, 2015. 
 
To honour the 100th anniversary of ANZAC the two metre high sandstone memorial, depicts two military hands shaking, one representing Turkey and the other Australia, celebrating peace between our two nations. 
 
There are also two inscriptions of Ataturk’s poem to mothers in both Turkish and English. Written in 1934 as a tribute to the men killed at Gallipoli, the words of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, Turkey’s first President, also appear on the Australian War Memorial, at Anzac Cove. 
 
Peace Park Dedication
 
Gates at the entrance to Lone Pine memorial
 
The area surrounding the Handshake for Peace Memorial was dedicated as a Peace Park, part of the Global International Institute for Peace through Tourism and SKAL International Peace Parks, the first of its kind in Australia.
 
SKAL International is a worldwide association of travel and tourism professionals promoting global tourism and friendship.
 
 
 
The inscription reads: “His Excellency Mr Reha Keskintepe, Ambassador of Turkey, dedicated this reserve as the Lone Pine Peace Park on 18 April, 2015. The dedication coincided with The Great Gathering of Peace, Friendship and Understanding in Istanbul on the same day, marking the centenary of the Gallipoli Campaign of World War 1 and wishing for peace across all nations.”       
Handshake for Peace Memorial Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Graffiti Removal Days

Upper Blue Mountains Graffiti Removal 
 
 
GRAFFITI REMOVAL DAYS 2017
(A story from Robert Ralston)
 
"What have the Romans ever done for us?"
 
Is there any place on Earth, so ugly, that it is improved by graffiti?
 
Of course there is justification for such historical examples, as "Long live the Republic" and "Viva Zapata!"
 But against these, today's ego-driven tags of "Pesk", "Porn" or "Parksy" do not merit a mention.
 
Classical Rome has given us many treasures, but graffiti is not among them. It deserves a 'thumbs down'; along with slavery, mass crucifixions and pickled bat's wings. And they had had enough of it, too. A recent excavation in Pompeii has uncovered a notice that can be loosely translated as,"O Walls! How can you still stand with such rubbish written upon you!"
 
So, no wonder that 17 people volunteered on 28 and 29 October 2017 in the upper Blue Mountains. After two hard days and a combined effort of 129 hours, they had removed 486 square metres of graffiti by 'painting-out' and by the use of chemicals and high-pressure spray.
 
The villages of Bulluburra, Wentworth Falls, Leura, Katoomba, Medlow Bath and Blackheath look greatly refreshed; with - perhaps - 95% of their graffiti removed.
 
You can ask, "How long will this last?"
 
Well, not until the vandals give up; because Central Blue never will.
 
And the Vandals did give up, at Rome, didn't they ? ! 
Graffiti Removal Days Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Sustainable Cambodia

Sustainable Cambodia
Central Blue Mountains Rotary actively supports the Sustainable Cambodia project and members regularly visit the project in Pursat, Cambodia as volunteers.
 
 

 

What is "Sustainable Cambodia"?

Sustainable Cambodia works with the families of rural Cambodian villages to help them achieve sustainability and self-sufficiency through wells, irrigation systems, schools, training and empowerment. 

            
 
Cambodian village families have been slowly rebuilding their lives after the Khmer Rouge genocide, but Cambodia remains one of the poorest countries in the world. Rural areas of Cambodia still face severe poverty, lack of health care, and low levels of education, economic opportunity, and resources. Sustainable Cambodia works with YOU to make a huge difference in the lives of these deserving families. 

We are not an "aid" organisation; we are an empowerment organisation. We "teach a person to fish", but we go one step further:  Each village uses a "pass-it-on" element of community service, so the village families not only help themselves, but help neighbouring villages. The result is sustainability within the villages, and replication of the model as village families volunteer to help surrounding villages. The work is comprehensive: We empower the village families to create a sustainable quality of life, helping them acquire fresh water, irrigation, schools, agriculture, skills and income generation. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
We employ ONLY native Cambodians as paid staff.  ALL international officers, directors and consultants are volunteers who are unpaid. This allows us to keep our overhead and fundraising expenses under 3%, and funding from the founders pays more than this modest amount. 
 
So literally 100% of funding goes into helping the rural village families. 

Since 2004, Sustainable Cambodia's unique empowerment model has helped tens of thousands of Cambodian men, women and children to rebuild their shattered lives. YOU can make a huge difference. Any way you choose to help, 100% of your contribution will go directly to on-the-ground projects in rural Cambodia. Please join us and see what a difference you can make in a child's life!
 
 
Click here to learn more.
Sustainable Cambodia Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Greystanes Golf Day 2018

Greystanes Golf Day
 
 
General David John Hurley, AC, DSC, Governor of New South Wales with Central Blue Mountains Rotarians
Tom Hickey, Chris Van Der Kley and Ray Wiles OAM.
The Greystanes Golf Day is an event with which the Rotary Club of Central Blue Mountains is proud to be involved.  It provides the Rotary Club with an excellent opportunity to support the wonderful work of Greystanes Disability Services.
 
Rotary Club members really cooked up a storm and served around 80 Hungry people including some 60 players.
 
Proceeds of the day made it possible to purchase a Mazda 3 Sedan to transport staff and clients.
 
General David John Hurley, AC, DSC, Governor of New South Wales is Patron of Greystanes Disability Services.  His Excellency attended the Golf Day and enjoyed a game of Golf.
 
Greystanes Golf Day 2018 Justine Murphy 2018-09-20 14:00:00Z 0

Youth Projects

Rotary Youth Programs

OUR YOUTH ARE OUR FUTURE
 
Rotary Clubs across Australia sponsor young people in the development of skills in the areas of communication, leadership, road safety / driver awareness, resilience and self esteem and in furthering their career aspirations in the areas of mathematics and science.
 
Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club is keen to see the youth of the Mountains develop in all of the above areas.  The Club participates in many of these Rotary Youth Programs.  A few examples are set out below.
 
ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD - RYLA
 
 RYLA is a 7 day residential leadership seminar for aspiring leaders aged 18 - 25 years.  The week incorporates a lot of self development through a variety of mechanisms including reflection (individually & as a team), team work, sports and outdoor activities, dancing and many others.  Participants can seize the opportunity to develop leadership, communication and problem solving skills, can practice new behaviours, forge life-long friends and challenge their own personal belief systems and values.
 
 
ROTARY YOUTH PROGRAM OF ENRICHMENT - RYPEN
 
RYPEN provides a group of young people aged 15-17 an opportunity to develop valuable leadership skills.
 
This weekend long program will see you engage with like-minded people, while having fun and learning new skills in areas such as problem solving and public speaking. On top of learning these skills RYPEN will give you a chance to put them to practical use, through debate and physical activity.
 
 
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE
Exchange Information
Rotary Youth Exchange is registrated with State and Territory Education Authorities to provide Secondary Student Exchange Programs.
 
Each year thousands of young people worldwide are given an opportunity to experience the cultures And accomplishments of people in other countries.
 
During your exchange, you will grow considerably in self-confidence, tolerance and self-reliance.
 
You'll also learn to accept greater responsibility in your everyday life.
 
From a returning exchange student - "My youth exchange year was one of incredible change and growth for me. In addition to seeing so much of the rest of the world, and making such wonderful friends, I changed in ways I never knew were possible. Thank you Rotary for the best year of my life!"
 
You will have to adapt to unfamiliar and different surroundings and ways of life that are different from home.
For some this will be the first extended period of separation from their family.
 
This will bring about many trials and tribulations which you will need to overcome and by so doing develop many "survival skills".
 
To live away from home for the 50 weeks duration of the exchange is a demanding yet rewarding experience. It is not always smooth sailing and requires a great strength of character, tolerance and an understanding of the acceptance personal responsibility.

The exchange provides a unique opportunity for young Australians to experience at first hand the many cultures of a different country, a new way of life and in some instances another language. Often, the friendships they make will be life long and important in achieving the aims of the exchange - the building of goodwill and understanding between countries.

As a Rotary Youth Exchange you'll have:
 
♦  An opportunity to develop your personal self confidence and maturity
 
♦  An opportunity to develop a lifetime of international friendships
 
♦  An opportunity to develop a real understanding of many different cultures
 
♦  An opportunity to develop new language skills
 
♦  An opportunity to develop a base for future education and career goals
 
♦  An opportunity to develop in many ways
 
 
  NATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM - NYSF
 
For Year 11 students passionate about science, NYSF gives an opportunity to visit a large variety of some of Australia’s leading scientific facilities and talk to many of our top scientists enabling informed career choices to be made.
 
It's also a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded people and establish professional relations and life-long friendships.
 
 
 
 
 

 
MODEL UNITED NATIONS ASSEMBLY - MUNA
 
The Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA) is a significant international Rotary youth program in which our District participates.
 
 Senior high school students develop an awareness of the United Nations and the countries they represent at a simulated UN Assembly.  The event provides an excellent forum for students to develop and practice their public speaking skills whilst debating on topical world issues.
 
 MUNA has been held in many Rotary Districts around Australia since 1980.  The team that places first in MUNA in our district is invited to compete at the Australian National MUNA at the Old Parliament House in Canberra.   The first National MUNA took place in August 1997.
 
The United Nations continues to give enthusiastic support for the ongoing growth of this worthwhile project for youth.

ROTARY SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING CHALLENGE
The Science & Engineering Challenge is a one day event designed to show Year 10 students that science isn’t just for nerds.
 
It can be fun so should be considered for their year 11 and 12 curriculum.  Each school sends a team of 24-32 students to compete against teams from 7 other schools.  The activities involve the involuntary application of principles of science, engineering and technology with a minimum of introduction and theory.
 
There is no cost to students or schools. Invitations are sent to all high schools in March for events held at various venues in May, June and July.
 
Visit www.newcastle.edu.au/challenge for more information.
 

 
Youth Projects John Sim 2017-08-10 14:00:00Z 0

Bowel Care

BOWEL CARE
 
 
 
Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club in association with several local pharmacies, participates in "BowelCare" each year.  "BowelCare" kits are distributed by the pharmacies at a nominal cost and any profits assist in other Rotary community projects.
 
BowelCare (formerly Bowelscan) is in its 25th year of service in Rotary District 9685. In order for the Program to continue its growth and benefit the community, all Clubs in our Rotary District are invited to promote bowel cancer awareness by participating in our BowelCare Program.

Object of BowelCare

1.   Develop a Community Awareness of the nature of Bowel cancer.
 
2.   Early detection of potential or actual bowel cancer.
 
NOTE: Rotary does not perform a medical service, we are creating Bowel Cancer awareness. We are not testing for Cancer, but rather for invisible blood in the stool, which if present may indicate a cancer, polyp or one of the many other diseases - there may be a cancer or polyp that does not bleed and therefore will not be picked up, but most cancers and polyps do bleed intermittently.

For those who do the program annually, 90% will be detected before it is too late.

The earlier a Cancer or Polyp is detected and treated, the better the outcome. 

Bowel Cancer Awareness Campaign

CANCER OF THE LARGE BOWEL is the most common internal cancer in Australia.

One in 21 Australians will develop bowel cancer, equal for men and women. Age is a very important factor. The risk begins at age 40, doubling every 5 years until age 60 and even more rapidly as the person gets older.

Australia has the world highest incidence of bowel cancer. This year in Australia over 11,000 people will be detected with bowel cancer and over 4,600 deaths will result from bowel cancer. Indeed double our National road toll.

POLYPS are growths that occur in the lining of the bowel. Not all polyps develop into a cancer but most bowel cancers begin as polyps. They may or may not bleed and cause diarrhoea and pain. Because a polyp can develop into cancer, early diagnosis and removal is important.


HIGH RISK 

The risk of bowel cancer increases 3 to 4 times the average if:
 
►   One or more of your blood relatives have had bowel cancer or polyps
 
►   You previously had bowel cancer or polyps or an extensive inflammatory bowel disease (Cohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, etc).
 
►   You have a history of bleeding with or in the stool
 

Persons in any of the above categories or who are in doubt, should consult their doctor.

Bowel Care John Sim 2017-08-10 14:00:00Z 0

Shelter Box

SHELTER BOX

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
READ MORE ABOUT ShelterBOX
 
 
Every year hundreds and thousands of communities, often with no warning, lose their homes, their possessions and their livelihoods. Every day they are faced with a battle for survival. 
 
We provide emergency shelter and vital supplies to support communities around the world overwhelmed by disaster and humanitarian crisis. 
 
Since ShelterBOX began in 2000, we have responded to earthquakes, floods, volcanoes, tsunamis, hurricanes, landslides, typhoons and conflict, delivering emergency humanitarian aid to communities in need.
 
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the Syria crisis, and the biggest storm to ever make landfall – Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines; ShelterBOX have responded to some of the largest humanitarian crises the modern world has ever known. Alongside this, we have also helped many thousands of people displaced by disasters that are not featured in the media. Simply put, if there are families in need of emergency shelter, we will do everything we can to help them. 
 

Sponsoring a box costs $1,000, including delivery direct to those who need it. Each box bears its own unique number so as a donor you can track the box all the way to its recipient country via the website.

Highly trained ShelterBox Response Teams distribute boxes on the ground, working closely with local organisations, international aid agencies and Rotary clubs worldwide.

Shelter Box John Sim 2017-08-10 14:00:00Z 0

Various Interesting Links

The following are interesting links gleaned in some case from guests speakers who have visited our club. 
Blue Mountains Bird Observers Club
 
 

 
Nepean/Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group Inc
"You are not alone"
 
 
Prostate Cancer - an insidious disease that most men either fear or don’t want to know about.
 
But it is real. It is out there. It can sneak up on you without symptoms.
 
Maybe you need to get out of bed more than twice a night and go to the toilet. If that’s the case, and you are over the age of 45 years, seek medical advice.
 
David Wilkinson, president, Nepean/Blue Mountains Prostate Support Group, brought this message home to us at Central Blue Mountains Rotary, Wednesday 6th August 2017, when he was our guest speaker.
 
David is a prostate cancer survivor and he travels around as a member of the support group speaking to men and their partners about the need for men to have regular medical checks after the age of 45 years.
 
Prostate cancer is generally a slow growing disease and the majority of men with low grade prostate cancer live for many years without symptoms and without it spreading and becoming life-threatening. However, high-grade prostate cancer can spread quickly and can be lethal. Appropriate management is necessary.
 
David Wilkinson says his association is there to help.  It supports those who have prostate cancer, or suspect that they may have it and their carer’s, to ensure that such people know They are Not Alone.
 
“We have been operating for some years now and became an incorporated Association in March 2007, we are an approved DGR recipient with Australian tax office, which means that donations made to our association are tax deductible,” David said.
 
Further information is available on the association’s website: just ask Google to search for nepean blue mountains prostate cancer support group or contact David Wilkinson on 1300 13 38 78.
 
Phone: 1300 13 38 78
 
 
Various Interesting Links John Sim 2017-08-09 14:00:00Z 0
Grace's Place John Sim 2017-08-02 14:00:00Z 0

The Importance of Engaging Youth

Zac Franklin, Leala Harris, Melissa Li, Ava Emdin, Laura Clyne, Alice Hill-Butler, John Manners.
 
The importance of Rotary engaging with youth
Story by Ava Emdin
 
What concerns today’s young people? Where do they go for information and what do they do with that information? What do they want from local Rotarians....The best way to find out is to ask them.
 
Invite local high school students to a meeting and you will be impressed with what you hear, their passion and how articulate they are in sharing their views.
 
Last week, Central Blue hosted four students from Blue Mountains Grammar School, and Abottsleigh High student, Melissa Li to our meeting, where they shared their concerns about our world and country and their hopes for the future as well as going some way to express what they would like to see happen in their communities and in the community at large. They also told us how little they know about Rotary other than sausage sizzles!
 
Marginally disadvantaged and isolated youth, Indigenous rights, LGBTI issues, racial and religious tension and the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers are among the concerns of socially aware young people.
But, being aware is only the beginning; empathy and action are what they would like to encourage for any change to happen. All five students agreed that the only way to make a difference is for multi generations to work together.
 
“Rotary can be such a powerful platform upon which to amplify the voices of my generation, because we need more avenues through which to vocalise our concerns and work towards solving them.”
 
Guest speaker Melissa Li said: “It’s so incredibly important for Rotary to engage with my generation. Rotary does great things and has made huge changes through its service programs. It can be such a good platform for youth action.
 
“My generation is the generation with the biggest capacity, and arguably the most responsibility to effect social change in an increasingly turbulent world. It’s our future that we have to anticipate.
“We’re aware. We recognise that it is time for change. But we need ways to create change, and a potential way to do that is to open a larger youth sector of Rotary so that we can pair up with an already established organisation.
 
“Rotary can be such a powerful platform upon which to amplify the voices of my generation, because we need more avenues through which to vocalise our concerns and work towards solving them,” Melissa Li concluded.
Today’s millennials are extremely aware and have a great deal to offer but as young people, as students, they are limited in what they can do in any practical way.
 
Working together with people who are in a position to help move awareness to empathy and action, engaging with people of faiths other than their own, and not being afraid to talk openly about religion and politics are important to them.
 
Social media is the go to for their information. Newspapers, radio and television cannot compete with the currency of social media and this medium is how young people communicate with their peers and their community.
 
What did we as Rotarians take away from the meeting? Engage with the students in our schools in ways that are meaningful to them. Don’t limit that engagement only to Rotary International programs. Find these young people and together find the ways of helping them achieve their goals.
 
The Importance of Engaging Youth John Sim 2017-08-01 14:00:00Z 0

All smiles at Lawson Public

ALL SMILES AT LAWSON PUBLIC
FREE TUCKER: Lawson Public School Principal, Matthew Jacobson and Ray Wiles of Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club serving breakfast.
 
It is well documented that kids who do not eat breakfast before going to school have a shorter attention span, tend to be listless and are unable to concentrate on their school work.
Lawson Public School accepted the challenge by establishing a school breakfast club which operates from 8.30am every Friday during school term. It’s free to all students.

Blue Mountains Gazette reported the story recently saying P&C members, Central Blue Mountains Rotary and Mountains Outreach Community Services (MOCS) set up the service each Friday to serve the hungry customers.

Students enjoy fresh fruit, cereal and warm creamy oats followed by honey or Vegemite toast.
 
Lawson Cake Shop supplies bread and Blue Mountains Food Co-op provides organic fruit.

Central Blue Mountains Rotary supplies milk and cereals and is delighted to be involved, ensuring that breakfast before school is available and kids do not start the day feeling hungry.
All smiles at Lawson Public John Sim 2017-07-30 14:00:00Z 0

Polio Plus

POLIO PLUS
REMEMBER . . . . AUSTRALIA IS ONLY A SHORT INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT AWAY FROM HAVING POLIO CARRIED TO OUR SHORES.
 
 
Rotary, along with our partners, has reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent worldwide since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. We are close to eradicating polio, but we need your help. Whether you have a few minutes or a few hours, here are some ways to make a global impact and protect children against polio forever.
 
Rotarians have helped immunise more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries. For as little as $0.60, a child can be protected against this crippling disease for life.
 
 
 
Every last child !
 
We are this close !
 
Polio Plus John Sim 2017-07-29 14:00:00Z 0
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