2017 is off and running. We are starting already to bring together all the details for next years match. 2016 was big, 2017 will be bigger. Plans are underway but not yet confirmed for a number of people to be involved. We hope to see Mick Crocker and Tom Learoyd-Lahrs back for the Magpies and of course the Governor of NSW and Mrs Hurley have been invited along with our patron Ben Roberts-Smith VC MG.

Rumour has it a large contingent from WA and Sydney will be in attendance and I have it on good authority that Hogs for Homeless will be calling in for a visit, with perhaps some 9s games. I am even hoping that Navy and Airforce will make it as well. But let’s not jump ahead of ourselves.

uses. We hope to continue the same assistance in 2017.
Soldier On

Bellingen-Dorrigo Juniors

The Grub Club’s preschool project.

Dorrigo Swim Club

I have been lucky enough to visit Bei Cala, Timor Leste twice this year. Most recently I took my sister Belinda with me and was able to introduce her to the wonderful people. In Bei Cala we attended the official opening of the pre-school and checked out other projects we are involved in. Still a lot of work to do.

The pre-school opened for business on Monday 3rd October and the new volunteer teachers Zumira and Eira Clara will be registering students and getting used to the program. We wish them all the best and look forward to catching up again, hopefully next year. We will also be arranging training for the ladies to help them on this journey.

I also dropped in on Darryl Mills OAM and Mario de Jesus who run the Rotary office in Dili. We will be collaborating with friends to undertake another project in the Oecussi Province. More details to come. Darryl is about to step down after 13 years in Dili undertaking all sorts of poverty relief projects for Rotary Melbourne.

I am also about to start working on another book drive and will be contacting Rotary Melbourne regarding this project, so stay turned for more information. Books are desperately needed for all age groups.

We had wonderful weather, awesome hosts and I once again come away immensly satisfied with our progress. None of this could have been achieved if not for the friendship of Jino Perriera, who as always chauffered us, advised us and translated for us throughout the entire journey. Thank you Jino, you are a man amongst men. To your family Karbina and Anisetto, Lily, Jackie, Zumira and Lala and of course the boys and the twins, thank you for your hospitality. It is much appreciated.

Jino Perriera MCing the official opening of the pre-school

Zumira and Eira Clara (Lala)

Escola Kaisera