20 August 2026

President John welcomed Bronson Blake from the Salvation Army. Bronson is currently a cadet spending some time in Timaru with Stephen.

John also welcomed Bill Weir back following his holiday in the USA and recorded apologies from Tom Henderson and Harley Smithson.

Members were reminded that Artorama is currently underway at the Aigantighe Art Gallery. The presentation of prizes and awards will take place on Sunday, 6 September at 1.00 pm, while assistance will be needed for the pack-out on Sunday, 13 September at 3.00 pm.

It was also reported that the Christmas Parade received the Business and Community Award. The parade is a joint project organised by the two Rotary clubs in Timaru.

The upcoming Science Symposium in Auckland has attracted one potential nominee. It was approved that the club will interview the candidate and, if deemed suitable, provide a $1,000 grant towards the approximately $2,500 cost of attending the symposium.

Looking ahead to the national elections, members discussed once again hosting a Meet the Candidates evening at the West End Hall, an event Rotary has historically organised. The proposal was approved, and volunteers will be required on the night. A committee comprising Don, Robbie and Rod will coordinate arrangements and report back to the club.

Members were also advised that applications are open for the District Governor position. Anyone interested from our club is encouraged to speak with a director.

In closing, the President emphasised the ongoing importance of growing club membership and encouraged members to invite prospective members to attend club meetings and events.

 

David spoke about dangerous driving situations he has observed around Timaru, particularly involving large trucks and trailers negotiating roundabouts. He expressed concern that the available space is often inadequate and that there is a risk of accidents when trucks must manoeuvre around vehicles and pedestrians in close proximity. David would like to see improvements made to alleviate the tightness of some roundabouts.

In response, John noted that roundabouts are designed so trucks can mount the centre area when necessary, while the tighter design helps reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety.

 

The raffle was won by David, holding ticket number 67.

 

Steven and Adrian relieved members of a few dollars through a challenging quiz session. With not many correct answers forthcoming, the fines basket received a healthy contribution.

 

Our guest speaker for the evening was Bill Weir, who spoke about his recent six-week trip to the United States.

Bill travelled as a semi-tour guide for a group of friends attending the International Red Power event, a three-day gathering celebrating International Harvester tractors, trucks and machinery.

The trip began in chaotic fashion. On his flight to Auckland, Bill spilt coffee on himself, and after numerous delays on the journey to Texas, he developed significant swelling in his legs. Arriving in Chicago, he discovered that his luggage had not arrived and was still in Houston.

Despite these setbacks, Bill eventually reached South Dakota, travelling in a 30-foot campervan that consumed an impressive 40 gallons of fuel per day. During this time, he stayed with friends on a farm.

The challenges continued as the hot weather, reaching around 90°F (32°C), aggravated the swelling in his legs. Upon arriving in Montana, his leg condition required hospital treatment. Bill is still awaiting the final insurance account for that episode.

After spending some additional time helping on the Montana farm, Bill returned home and has now been back in New Zealand for two weeks. Members appreciated his entertaining account of a memorable and eventful journey.

 

The next meeting will be held on 3 September 2026, marking the club's first meeting of Spring.

 

Chairman: Bill Weir
3-minute Speaker: Harley Smithson
Thanks: Noel Crawford
Sargeant: Robbie Jackson
Corporal: Gavon Craig
Regalia: Dale Davey