On Monday night we had an amazing, and interesting talk by Mallika Sinha, an astrophysicist who is doing a PhD in topics relating to black holes. We learned that a black hole is simply a huge star that big became so solid that it exploded. At least this is my interpretation of her talk and if I’m incorrect I’m happy to be corrected. The club was also reassured to know that this is unlikely to happen in our lifetime. It was really encouraging to see a young scientist who was so enthusiastic about her work and the need for further research. 

On Tuesday last week we travelled to Belgrave for a FORaMEAL event.  Two clubs were involved – Belgrave which only has 6 members, and Emerald which has around 50. Approximately 40 members took part of all ages and this was the loudest group of packers that I have ever experienced. It made the evening great fun. We will be having another event next year and I would recommend anyone interested in FORaMEAL to go.

Other news about the club is that we will be hosting an exchange student from Czechoslovakia. Alan Stevens will be his first host parent and Michael Stillwell and I will follow. We really do need another family to offer to host him. I realise that it is a big commitment. If hosting is impossible hopefully club members will be able to participate in keeping him entertained although Rotary students usually manage to do this themselves. We also need people to take on the roles of student counsellor while he is here. This involves meeting regularly to write a report but also helping with logistics such as school books etc. I would be grateful if anyone would be able to help in this position.

Changeover is on 29 June. I haven’t quite worked out all the logistics especially as to how we will have a change over from me to me at the event. It should be a fun night and maybe the magician will be able to help with the transition.

Our New Members evening is to be held next Monday night, 25 May. We will be providing a glass of bubbles and cheese and biscuits before dinner so it is important that all club members be on time or even early so that this does not delay the evening. It is also absolutely vital that Pam is aware of the numbers who are eating so if you are not eating or not attending or have other guests coming, please notify Alan Stevens before Thursday. This is very important.

I’ll just let you know about a student public speaking event that will be held by Balwyn Rotary on 2 June. Further information will be forthcoming but I thought those who will attend our student debate might be interested hearing how other students perform.

There were no birthdays this week but it was World Bee Day yesterday, Thank you Joe Flinn for bringing two jars of your home honey for raffle prices. They were eagerly grabbed by the winners. John McCaskill spoke briefly about Rotarians for Bees but will provide further information next week.

I’m heading down to Hobart for the week but I’ll be back next Monday. Please remember to let Alan know so that Pam can manage the catering.

I hope you all have a nice week

Cheers,
Jill