Past Presidents Report 2007 - 2008 I started the year with a burst like all Presidents; however I was brought up short by Sergeant John who soon let me know in no uncertain terms that he was in fact running the meetings with help from me. This I was greatly appreciative of and would like to thank him for, and his ability in keeping the meetings organized and running smoothly. My year was helped greatly by the assistance and support of the board, which yet again were hardworking and efficient. On behalf of all the Thornlie Rotary Member’s we Thank you. President Elect: Mike Raspa in Vocational. Also Visits to Salamat and once again a successful Thornlie Senior high School Scholarship Evening. International Service: Geoff Wiltshire and his committee for the two Grants provided to Organisations such as the shelter boxes for the Victoria bushfire emergency which I feel is one of the best projects that Rotary has at this time and the funding of the RAWCS project. Also am very appreciative of the concentration of identifying future larger projects to endeavor to provide help and support with. Community Services: Ron Braddock and his committee on the hardwork on their 13 Projects at the cost of $13,465.00 which included 2 x Heartstart Defibrillators to the Fremantle Lifesaving Club and Araluen Botanic park, and once again making contributions to the Foodbank Program at the cost of $2800.00. Also having a successful Bowel Scan Program. New Generation: Vin Rogers and committee this year took part in our first Rotary Youth Driving Awareness program with the Thornlie Senior high School and continued our help with Wendy Smith for Show bags. We also participated in Handi Camp, RYDA and RYPEM programs. Fundraising Director: Colin Waters and his able deputy Andy Hopper who successfully managed to ensure that each week “Bring and Buy” was running smoothly, and filling in wherever necessary to ensure that numbers were there. Not to mention the extra grey hairs on Colin from the constant arguments with the bin. Secretary: Doug parker thank you for your efficient and shorthand of the board minutes and also the communication between Rotary clubs etc. Treasurer: Wayne Brouwer and John Mitchell and their efforts to ensure all payments were on time despite the failing of the computer. Special Projects: Ray Smith thank you for having the patience and perseverance to at last see the start of the Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Project. PDG Frank Keys for his help with our Paul Harris Fellows Awards and his advice and help during the year. I would like to take this moment to mention my Highlights for the year being: Paul Harris Fellows to: Ted Evans – which was very worthy and overdue. And Wendy Smith - In recognition of her Show Bag Program The RYDA Program The District Conference which was a well presented conference with a great range of speakers, and I feel everyone would have got something out of it being tears/ laughter/ learning and Rotary Information. To President Elect Mike Raspa and Louise I would like to wish you a successful and rewarding year. Finally to all my fellow Rotarians thank you for your patience on my stumbling of pronunciations and I know now “I am a better Indian than a Chief….” Ron Bradborn