Dear Heirisson Rotary Members,
those members who attended our last meeting would remember our 3 prize winners of the Doug Worthington "Best Photograph for 2023 by Rotary Exchange Students" competition.
Introduced by Penny Worthington, they were:
Madison Smith with this fabulous photo:
My host Country
This photo was taken looking at Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), near Stavanger on the West Coast of Norway. My host mum surprised me with a weekend trip to Stavanger so we could go on this hike together. The walk was breathtaking. My poor phone quality photo does not do it justice, but the hills were different greens from the trees and the fjord was bright blue. This walk was important to me because it was the first hike I went on after seriously injuring my ankle on another holiday (see Travails of Travel). My host mum and I took it slow and met some interesting people on the way up and way down. Even though the walk up was only two hours up, I felt accomplished and strong. The timing of the hike was perfect, because a few months after Preikestolen was closed for Mission Impossible filming. I admire Norway’s eco-tourism side, where tourists need to take care of their own safety and the views are not impeded by barriers and safety signs. Many tourists were eating lunch at the top and taking turns to take photos with the view and without the crowds. The calmness on top of Preikestolen reminded me of Norwegian cities in general, bustling with lots of people doing lots of different things, but with everyone respecting each other’s space, right to quiet and taking turns/sharing amenities
Also, Adrian Andonovski with this very fine shot:
My host Country
Cmentarz żydowski - Jewish Cemetery of Łódź, Poland, the largest outside of Israel. April, 2016.
Canon AE-1 + 50mm f/1.8 and Kodak ColourPlus 200.
This photo represents Poland through a number of layers. It portrays its struggles through centuries of conflict and has a specific tie to the epicenter of the largest conflict the world has seen, and the dark truths we have learned. However, this photograph also showcases Poland’s affluence and vast history, with intricate headstones carved from stone and marble tombs stretching to the height of trees. It also demonstrates Poland's lush and vibrant nature as deep and dense forests stretch across the landscape. Ultimately, what is pictured is an overgrown, sacred and unique cemetery that has been left to decay as its creators and believers have been banished from their homes.
Finally, Jasmin Hunt with this beautiful pic.
My host Country
Title: Sakta Vi Gå Genom Stan (2020)
This is a photo taken in Stockholm during my year as a Rotary Exchange student in Sweden. This photograph reminds me of the beauty of Sweden’s traditional architecture and its rich history. I loved wandering around Gamlastad (old town) with my fellow exchange students, ferrying between the many islands that connect together to form Stockholm, and wandering down every alleyway to discover the sights - new and old.
And a very big congratulations to you all.
Also, our guest speaker for the night was our very own exchange student Emi who entertained all with her interesting talk about her country, our country and how she is having a great time here. Thank you Emi.
Recently, Greg, Rick and Jim took on the not too inconsiderable task of rolling out the the very large Duck Derby floating snagger to help contain Master's Milk Cartons from the Mix 94.5 Masters Milk Carton Regatta held at Hillarys Boat Harbor sheltered beach.
$1,000 was earned by the threesome for our Rotary General Revenue bank account. Well done Greg, Rick and dare I say it? Me.
Here's a couple of pics sent by our roving reporters Don and Bev whilst on their second big bash to India. One thought they were chasing the cricket but no, history again!! Plus the odd cow!!
Classic Cars & Coffee
was held once again on Saturday last with all the usual panel and paint that bordered on the amazing not to mention the exhaust notes. A special display of a ten million dollar Bugatti was a huge hit which drew and equally huge crowd. Here's a pic or two.
And Finally, those lucky persons who attended Bronwyn's delicious Christmas Dinner last Saturday night had a terrific night hosted of course by Bronwyn, Dai and son James at their beautiful home in East Perth. A big highlight was when our own Rod Slater, making a special visit although feeling a little fragile, presented a gift of $25,000 to our Rotary Club to continue with our community support efforts. This is a moment that will never be forgotten Rod, words fail me but a huge thanks from all of us.
