Last year at my induction I spoke of "recession times" being with us - nothing much has changed - each of us is aware of the difficulties faced not only by this community, but also nationally and internationally but I feel confident that our efforts this year have embodied the Rotary International theme given to us by President Rajendra Saboo, "Look Beyond Yourself".

During the year 14 people were inducted into our club resulting in a net gain of 9 new people, the second highest in the district. To assist with raising funds for ongoing projects the club purchased a fairy floss machine to use at events.

The club became aware of the plight of a Sebastopol resident who required a respirator to live at home whilst recovering from a brain tumour. The club held a dance in November and along with other fundraising activities and donations $5,500 was raised to help purchase the respirator.

An "Afternoon with Friends" was organised for the residents of the Queen Elizabeth Geriatric Centre with Rotarians gathering a troupe of entertainers to entertain the residents and club members portered residents to and from the theatre venue.

We assisted Filipino Scouts to attend the Scout Jambouree in Ballarat and fourteen scouts were hosted for breakfast, it was a delight to hear them share a little about their lifestyle at home.