From the president
Amazing work being done at the Malaghan Institute on Covid and Cancer research…and much more, as informed by Dr Kjesten Wiig. Another visit by the Club to the Institute is being arranged, to catch a glimpse of some of this – with IP and security, of course, closely guarded. Once the finances of the Auction are completed, a presentation will be made to them of the Malaghan Institute’s share of the proceeds.
Very well done to the whole RCPN team, led so capably by Hayley, who did a brilliant job of raising funds for End Polio Now, along with AG Carol Green and others who volunteered – another demonstration of the benefits of our Network collaborations.
On that, as we know, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is a huge contributor to the End Polio global project. It has also just been honoured to collaborate with Obama Foundation & Girls Opportunity Alliance and the Clooney Foundation for Justice to support the amazing organisations around the world that are working to end child marriage, advance gender equality, and help girls everywhere reach their full potential. This is another international objective of Rotary.
On another international note, what a thrill to have Ben Baker back, sharing a snatch of the wonderful work he, as Artistic Director, and Justine Cormack, Festival Director, are coordinating annually in Queenstown and Wanaka in their programme, AWE, for mentoring and enhancing Emerging Music Artists. Wellington-born Ben, having moved to the UK when he was 8 to pursue his career, with assistance for a number of years from RCPN, has certainly paid off. Now he is delighted to be ‘paying back’ by assisting younger players and bringing music to central Otago. What a treat to hear him play fellow Wellingtonian, Gareth Farr’s Wakatipu – based on a Maori legend about Queenstown’s lake (and rarely before 9am, as noted!).
Those who attended the Auction will be pleased to hear that we have made a contribution to the Virtuoso Strings, more worthy recipients, whom we have engaged from time to time.
In another joint venture, Christmas puddings are available through the Karori Club. More information on purchasing these at the next meeting…and another plea for someone (or 2 co-jointly) to take over the role of Secretary, currently temporarily undertaken by Heather, only until Christmas. Many thanks for standing in.
Looking forward to another highly notable Wellingtonian, and creative artist in his own right, Dr Swee Tan. Bring your friends to hear him this week!
Dawn
President
