MUNA - this wonderful project, hosted by Auckland Downtown Rotary, was held Friday 24 and Saturday 25 May. Model United Nations - 105 students from 48 secondary schools took part and debated critical issues - to Remits on Climate Change, Equality of Women, Territorial Sovereignty and the Conduct of Nations in Space. Topics that required considerable research beforehand and then a spirited presentation in the 3 minutes allowed. We, Remuera Rotary, sponsored two Diocesan School teams - representing Spain and Mongolia - ad two from Dilworth - Algeria and Indonesia and all four acquitted themselves extremely well. The Dio Spain team, in fact impressed hugely for following UN rules and protocol and won the Secretary General's prize for their knowledge of the UN Charter. I was one of 3 judges and can report that Selwyn College's Nicaragua was the Supreme Champion. A very rewarding two days - and the 3-400 students were all exceedingly enthusiastic and positive - a real credit to their schools and to our youth today! The venue this year was Rosmini College over at Takapuna who provided the hall and facilities free of charge.

MONDAY 27 SPEAKER - JEFF THOMPSON - Jeff has spoken to us once before, some years ago. However it was fascinating hearing how this artist developed his interest in creating art from corrugated iron and the life like animals and other remarkable pieces of art work that he creates. Elephants in Epsom, a giraffe on the Kaipara and kangaroos in Canberra - utterly fascinating  and, as Jeff said, his giraffe satisfied the live one on the Gibbs' Farm!

QUIZ & SILENT AUCTION  - MONDAY 17 JUNE -  we are looking at having tables of 6 and suggest that you all form teams to take part in the Quiz. Also, we need items for the Auction - how about searching cupboards and garages for collectibles long forgotten but deserving a new home.
ingrid.grieve@nzsir.com Ingrid Grieve is heading this project.

ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE - late July we have a 16 year old Danish lass arriving who needs board and lodging though till December. Is any member able to help or, perhaps one of your sons or daughters may be able to assist. She is likely to attend either St Cuthbert's College or Epsom Girls' Grammar School. If able to help, please contact
deeanahwinders@gmail.com Deeanah Winders.

RESIGNATION - JOHN COWAN - John, very sadly, has written to advise that he is resigning from 30 June. A great shame - John has been a wonderful Rotarian for many years a past President, Community Director until quite recently and a most effective, and humorous, Sergeant. John will stay on as an Honorary Member and we do hope that he and Carol will attend Meetings from time to time.

Bryan Haggitt 29 May 2024