Rotary District 9800 GSE Team

Excess Baggage

2012-02-03T11:27:00.002+11:00

The time to head back to Nagpur for the District Conference had arrived. Mel still wasn't well but was feeling well enough to travel so we were all up bright and (far too) early to be driven in to Mumbai where we could catch a flight to Nagpur.

Now we have written proof that we seem to have forgotten to pack lightly.

OK, the additional luggage didn't ALL belong to Lizz, we all contributed a little!

To be fair, we have less right now than we did when we first arrived.

R & R

2012-02-02T19:01:00.000+11:00

After 2 weeks of non-stop GSE action we were all starting to feel the wear; Mel was still unwell, Lizz had only just recovered from what can only be described as a funky tummy and Jim was injured. In short, we were all in need of some rest and relaxation. To our rescue came Vivek and Rupali - they whisked us out to their farm just outside of Nasik to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the fresh country air.

We had a wonderful breakfast on the terrace overlooking the orchard full of tropical fruit trees - mango, coconut, banana, chicco and more that led down to the lake.

After too much food, we wandered down through the orchard to the lake that marked the border of the farm and enjoyed being able to laze about in the sun and chat with our new found friends.

Enjoying the sunshine and the chance to relax.

Before long it was time to head back to Nasik and reality. We still had a lot of work to do before heading back to Nagpur and the District Conference. Thanks Vivek and Rupali and all of the other wonderful Nasik hosts who took such great care of us all.

Another One Bites the Dust

2012-02-01T21:51:00.000+11:00

A few of us decided that we needed some fresh air and a walk in the country. We were up bright and early and drove out to a nearby mountain for some trekking.

The walk to the top of the mountain was hard work but great. We would have taken photos on the way up if we were able to hold a camera and walk safely but the walk was so steep in parts that we were forced to scramble up using trees and rocks to support us.

The view from the top was amazing.

Once we made it to the top we all gathered to sing Happy Birthday to one of the trekkers. Naturally, after singing Happy Birthday we all ate cake, there were 3 different chocolate cakes to choose from!

Chocolate cake - the perfect breakfast food!

To enjoy the views, we walked down the other side of mountain before stopping to enjoy the beauty of the caves that were carved into the face of the mountain. The caves were similar to those we saw in Ajanta but without the crowds so we had the opportunity to explore the area in peace.

The scramble down from the top to the car park was even tougher in places than the walk up the hill. Along the way someone decided to tempt fate and pretend to fall...

Not long after the pretend fall came a huge crash as Jim hit the ground in most spectacular fashion, injuring his ankle. Again there were no cameras about as everyone rushed to help him up.

Fortunately the fall was towards the end of the walk and he was able to hobble slowly back to the car and head home for painkillers and some ice to attempt to reduce the swelling. Hopefully he will be back in action soon.

Cricket Crazy

2012-02-01T21:40:00.000+11:00

Before arriving in India we suspected that many people in the Indian community were a little obsessed with cricket but with the results of the International Test Matches being played in Australia not being favourable for our local hosts, we didn't want to spend too much time talking about this apparently beloved pastime. Our suspicions that India truly was a cricket loving nation were confirmed when we went to visit a market place. Here we found a group of people watching the cricket on a tv mounted to a pole outside a temple in the market place!

Unfortunately all the cricket support from the community in Nasik doesn't seem to be helping the Indian cricket team.

It had to happen to one of us eventually ...

2012-01-30T23:27:00.000+11:00

So it went a little something like this ...

We're departing Jalgaon for the long drive to Nasik for our next visit. After a great farewell dinner the night before and another opportunity for the girls to play 'Indian Princess' dress-ups, we were sad to again such welcoming and hospitable host families, but excited for the onward journey to a new destination!

Prior to departure I wasn't feeling 100%, so Del hooked me up with some meds to get me through the three hour drive (which later turned out to be around five hours) with no air conditioning (except for the time Jim asked for it and resulted in the car breaking down), and the great Indian sun streamed through the un-tinted windows. Sleeping on and off throughout the journey, I woke in Nasik with muscular pain to my lower back and legs and slightly nauseas.

Explaining I wasn't feeling well, we were quickly escorted to our new 'homes' where the shakes started to set it.. Not a good sign.

I went straight to bed once at my host's home and slept for about three hours, waking feeling pretty refreshed for a welcome dinner at Rtn Prashant Nathe's beautiful architecturally designed home (helps when you, your wife, and your father are all distinguished architects!).

At dinner, I didn't feel up to eating at all, although the spread put on looked amazing. The thought of eating was increasing that feeling of nausea and runs to the bathroom were becoming more frequent, if only for the cold water on the forehead and deep breaths. I ended up lying on a sofa in the kids' room watching them attempt to play Cluedo, when people were making their move to their respective homes. It was not until now that Jim realised I was freezing and shaking.. Apparently it wasn't as cold as I thought it was!!

I spent the night in bed, tossing and turning, in pain and hot/cold flushes, and it was decided that I would not join the group on their days activities, but stay in bed and recover. Upon the group's return and the Doc's further check up of my condition, it was decided it was off the hospital I go for a check up! *Note I had not eaten for about two days now with limited fluid intake..

Dr Gokhale at Sushrut Hospital prescribed some meds to get me through, and I thought I was feeling better (only after having some anti-nausea medication) - but the worst was yet to come!!

I had to pass on the evening's presentation, and moved to where Del was staying to allow her to keep an eye on me (I didn't want to be a burden on anyone's families) and spent the night in pain, hot/cold flushes, and unable to keep the medication down, or any food or drink.. Uh oh..

The next morning I was taken back to Sushrut Hospital feeling the full brunt of it (whatever 'it' is). Dr Gokhale was to my rescue again! 4 pints of fluid and 2 of antibiotics by I/V as well as some other meds thrown in by 9pm I started to feel human again! Extremely exhausted, but alive.. There were a few moments, I have to be honest, of "I want my mum.." Haha..

Today, I feel like I am recovering from the flu with moments of inspiration and even bigger moments of crashing and lying in the coma position, but I feel amazingly better than a few days ago.

I must thank everyone in Nasik and Rotary, India, Dr Gokhale and the amazing staff at the Sushrut Hospital for making my very FIRST time in hospital a great as it could have been (considering).. I had the closest thing to my mum's home made chicken and sweet corn soup in Rupali Jaykhedkar's chicken soup and toast!

I am well on the road to recovery and am looking forward to the rest of our trip and District Conference in Nagpur!!!! And a steak..

Closer to the Gods - a journey to a Jain Temple

2012-01-30T22:45:00.000+11:00

Following our (mostly silent) visit to the Visspasana Meditation Centre, we returned via the Nashik - Bombay Highway to take lunch at the Shree Dharmachakra Prabhav Tirth, an impressive Jain temple constructed entirely from white marble and pink sandstone.

More popularly known as Jain Mandir, this temple is also home to a huge 12 ton idol of the 24th, and last, Jain Tirthankar (Guru), known as Mahavira. The detail in this idol and that of its sculptured surroundings was simply astounding and served to only reaffirm to us again how important religion and spirituality is to the people of India.

Lunch itself was a very delicious affair with our attendants made up of young boys studying within the temple itself. Round and round they came with more food until our stomachs reaching overflow (again!) Not only was it our first time eating lunch at Jain Mandir, it was also Prashant Nathe (Nashik GSE Coordinator) first time, so we could not help but take a snap to preserve the first timers moment!

What really impressed the team however was the delicate stone workmanship being carried out by young men in a large event room adjoining the temple. Hindi words were being meticulously hand carved into large granite blocks and each line of each Hindi letter was as straight as an arrow! As a fan of the art of carving, Jim was very keen to take snaps of these talented young men at work!

We are glad you could come on this glance into the Jain religion with us and to close this snippet of a blog, we shall leave you with some interesting facts about Jainism:

- The word Jain is derived from 'Jina' which means 'the one victorious over self and the external world'

- Jainism extends the non-violence approach found many Indian regions to include non-violence towards all living beings including soil, oceans, microbes and plants. Jains therefore follow a strict vegan diet.

The BBC UK also has a write up on this religion if you would like to take a peek!

HYPERLINK "http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/jainism/"http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/jainism/

Oh So Quiet

2012-01-30T22:11:00.007+11:00

After a couple of weeks of hectic schedules we had a relaxing morning planned for us - a trip to Vipassana Kendra, a school of meditation where vipassana is taught and practiced. We weren't actually registered for a course in meditation as courses are 10 days long. Even if we did have the 10 days free in our crazy schedule we aren't sure how long we would last as all students who participate in the course are required to remain silent for the duration of the stay!

Needless to say, it was a very quiet location.

Once we had become accustomed to the silence, something we have struggled to find since arriving in India, the peace and tranquility of the location was profound. We could imagine that practicing vipassana, which means to see things as they really are, could be a beautiful experience. Simply wandering through the beautiful grounds to see the golden pagoda was relaxing.

The pagoda was surrounded by rows and rows of individual meditation rooms where course participants spend hours each day seeking inner peace and harmony. After a few really long days with the team, Murray was in need of some time out to try and seek peace and harmony.

We aren't too sure if it worked for him, he really wasn't there long enough - after spending 2 weeks with us he is more likely to need to study the extended 30 day course!

If you do want to find out more about Vipassana Meditation and the Art of Living, check out their website, they run courses all over the world, including Australia.

On the Road Again

2012-01-29T16:33:00.001+11:00

After experiencing train travel to Jalgaon on a 'waiting ticket', we knew to check if our train tickets from Jalgaon to Nasik were 'confirmed' or 'waiting'. When we found out the tickets hadn't been confirmed our Jalgaon hosts quickly jumped to action and re-arranged our travel plans. Before we knew it we had 2 cars booked to pick us up for the drive to Nasik.

Now the drive from Jalgaon to Nasik is about 250 km, with most of that being on a highway so in Australian travel time 3 hours would be plenty of time to get to our destination, even including a stop for a cuppa along the way. Being in India we estimated that the trip would take 4 hours or more. That turned into more than 5 hours, one of which which involved being in a traffic jam. Now a traffic jam in India is like no other traffic jam we have ever experienced. For about an hour we were trapped in the middle of a 2 lane road, inching forwards slowly, surrounded by cars, bikes, trucks, buses and bullock wagons who were all trying to make headway towards their destinations.

Now to make some sense of this picture, we are following the truck that carrying human cargo, this truck is overtaking another truck that is in turn overtaking an auto-rickshaw. The truck that is travelling towards us is forced to drive on the verge to be able to continue its journey. Of course this is all taking place on a 2 lane road!

Despite the noise and confusion of the traffic jam what we noticed was the sense of peace. No one was angry trying to push forward or honk their horn angrily. People were happy to sit back and relax, or were at least resigned to the fact that there was nothing that they could do so why not relax! The entrepreneurial local kids got into action and started to wander amongst the traffic selling drinks and snacks to those stuck in the traffic.

Eventually we made it through the traffic jam, unable to see what the cause of the delay was, and continued our journey to Nasik. We arrived to another warm welcome, safe and sound, thankful for the skills of our Indian drivers.

Wonderful Welcomes

2012-01-28T21:58:00.000+11:00

It isn't every day that you are welcomed to an event by a brass band but that is exactly what happened today when we arrived to present to the Rotary Club of Bhusaval Tapti Valley!

Once the band finished playing the choir sang a beautiful song to welcome us to their school.

All this of course happened after our 'official welcome' to town where we were greeted by new friends with a personalised banner, beautiful flowers and cool refreshing drinks.

Perhaps as Aussies we can learn from the beautiful welcomes we have received whilst in India!

Train Training

2012-01-28T20:32:00.002+11:00

Today we found out that whilst train travel in India may be challenging for some, driving a train is far more challenging! We were fortunate enough to be taken to the Zonal Training Institute Bhusawal, the premier training facility of India Rail, where you can learn to become a train driver.

We toured the facilities and saw the miniature train set that is used in training that has replica tracks, trains and fully operational switchboards to control the trains to ensure that the drivers in training can learn in a safe environment.

From the miniature railway it was time to try out what was almost the real thing - the train simulators where the driver could stand in the simulator and watch the view from the front of the train and respond accordingly. To complete the learning experience, as the driver is controlling the train, the remainder of the class are seeing the same view as the train driver and watching the monitors remotely so they can learn how to, or in our case how not to, respond to any given situation.

Let's just say that driving a train is much harder than it looks.

The second simulator added movement and if you thought the ride as a passenger was rough, the feeling in the front of the train was no better but more cramped than many of the passenger compartments!

As the GSE9800 train pulled out from the station, there were mutterings heard from the trainers viewing the journey in the classroom of "God help the passengers", then when a simulated cow on the track was hit, they added "and the cows too!" By the time the train had driven through a fallen tree, a car that was on the track and crashed into a stationary train they were all too busy laughing to make any further comment.

We will forever have a new appreciation for train travel!

Republic Day and Australia Day

2012-01-26T17:07:00.000+11:00

January 26th, the day we know as Australia Day is also the day that India celebrates Republic Day. We were fortunate enough to celebrate both occasions with our wonderful hosts in Jalgaon.

First stop for the day was the Jalgaon Police Grounds where we were officially welcomed to the celebrations for Republic Day. It was announced that James was a photographer and was even invited to spend time with the official program photographers and was invited to shoot photos from beside the parade ground.

We were treated to an amazing performance ranging from drill to cultural dance and even a display of how the police would respond to terrorists who had hijacked a school bus.

It was a wonderful way to start the day.

Next stop... The amazing Ajanta Caves. Now when many people think of caves, they think of small dark alcoves in rock. Ajanta Caves is far from a small dark alcove, it is in fact a Buddhist Temple carved from the basalt rock of the hill. The Ajanta Caves website describes the area thatconjure before one's vision, a dream of beauty- of caves, hidden in the midst of a lonely glen with a streamlet flowing down below, caves that were scooped out into the heart of the rock so that the pious Buddhist monk, out on mission to spread the tenets of Buddhism could dwell and pray, caves that the followers of Lord Buddha, embellished with architectural details with a skilful command of the hammer over the chisel, with sculpture of highest craftsmanship and above all, with the paintings of infinite charm.

Photos of the area really do not do it justice, they can not convey the majestic beauty and tranquility of the the area and of the caves themselves.

It is no wonder that the caves were hidden from the world until last century!

Even amongst the throngs of tourists who were enjoying the holiday we managed to enjoy the peaceful nature of the area.

Naturally we needed a photo of us playing tourist!

From Ajanta we headed back towards Jalgaon, stopping for a bite to eat along the way. In true Australia Day tradition, a footy was dragged from someone’s backpack and we all played kick to kick (badly!) in the carpark before heading home.

We all had a fantastic Australia Day, we hope that you did too.

Train Travel

2012-01-25T23:56:00.000+11:00

Transport in India is something that we are still to get used to. Today we experienced travel on the rail network from Akola to Jalgaon.

We had tickets but didn't realise that the tickets were 'waiting' tickets. To be honest, even if we knew they were waiting tickets we wouldn't have know what that meant until we were on board. It turns out that the waiting tickets meant that we were waiting for our tickets to be confirmed. It turns out that we only had one seat con for the 6 of us - we did have a porter travelling with us to help us negotiate the journey! We managed to charm our way into 'seats'.

As we began the hunt for 'seat', Mel guarded our luggage that was left in the corridor...

We found a spot to perch on top bunk...

but were moved to a single bunk, it was still squishy but we had a little more head space...

Apologies for the fuzzy pics, the journey was a little bumpy. Once we settled into the ride, we were able to laugh at our situation and enjoy the ride!

Our wonderful hosts think that it is a negative aspect of our journey thus far, we however think that it is a real Indian experience that we wouldn't change for the world.

Anand Sagar, Shegaon (near Akola).

2012-01-22T20:58:00.000+11:00

Anand Sagar is a famous holy place near Akola. The name means 'ocean of pleasure' and is a man-made 300 acre garden with temples and shrines throughout manicured gardens. More than 15,000 people visit the main holy temple on a Sunday to say prayers and the line to enter can stretch a kilometre!

Fortunately it wasnt too busy when we were there and we were able to enjoy a wander through the gardens at last light of the day and experienced night driving 40km back to town, which was interesting.

We were thrilled to discover that Murray was entitled to a free wheelchair because he has a senior citizens card!

Sanitising a village in 2012 - Akola, India.

2012-01-22T19:46:00.000+11:00

We visited the Rotarty Club of Akola Midtown's sanitation and Check Dam project at a small rural village, Gaunpur near Akola. The project was funded by matching grants, raised by RC Akola Midtown and RC Mercer Island, USA.

The ongoing sanitisation project aims to build self-composting toilets for most homes in the village. The village has 5000 people and is a farming community growing gam and other grains. RC Akola Midtown purchased the supplies of building materials to erect common toilets in the village and the villagers laboured with rotary club members to construct the facilities.

We saw two completed toilets and one nearing completion, 100 toilets have been built so far and the aim is to complete 300.

So how do you install a toilet we asked. Firstly the site is selected and the ground is prepared. A ventilated and raised brick enclosure is built, complete with indian style tiled floor and toilet basin and a locking door. The waste is drained into a composting tank located at the rear of the toilet block. These basic self-composting tanks are made of bricks and concrete allowing for liquid to seep out of the well into the under-ground. Before the sanitisation project, the villagers would use nearby fields or improvised toilets in the homes.

The new toilets have a dramatic impact on the village. The improved sanitisation is evident and having these toilets near the homes means the residents can manage better during the cold winter and raining monsoon. It is apparent that the quality of life has improved for the villagers.

Photo Caption: each toilet has a deep well that the waste drains into. the gaps in the bricks allow the fluid to seep into the deep underground, the wells are capped with concrete lids and covered with dirt. These is no smell of exposure of waste once the wells are covered.

Another initiative of the RC clubs are the Check Dam walls. These have been built in a nearby seasonal waterway and are designed to slow the flow of water so there is irrigation water during the dry season. Construction of the dam walls was done by the nearby villagers. The walls are made from rocks and concrete and are rudimentary but effective. The river has a mix of black soil which is firmer and can hold the walls in place, but unfortunately further up stream the river bed soil is very fine and the check dam walls have been washed away due to erosion of the fine soil during the high water season.

The team visit to see the check dam and toilets was very positive. It demonstrated the hands-on community focus of the RC Akola and it was a reminder that with good sanitisation and a good water supply a village can thrive.

A highlight during the visit was a ride on the bullock wagon to see the Check Dam wall. The basic wagons, used to transport crops and supplies as well as carrying people when required are bumpy and uncomfortable. It is said in India, after a day on the bullock wagon you need a pillow for your bottom, not your head to sleep well.

By James Mepham GSE D9800 to India 2012.

The experience of Chikaldra through Lizz's eyes

2012-01-21T22:25:00.002+11:00

It was in my GSE interview on the 9th of October that I first conveyed to District 9800 my desire to become more than an unworldly one dimensional person and on Saturday 21st of January, my wish was granted on the Maharashtra hill station, Chikaldara. Via the Melghat Medical Camp, the passionate and dedicated vision of Rotary Club Nagpur South has brought much needed medical care and attention to the villagers of Chikaldara. At every turn throughout our visit to Melghat, I was struck by the generosity and care of the medical team from both India and the UK. Each doctor, nurse, surgeon and specialist had come to this 4 day camp to provide their services free of charge and to open their hearts to their patients.

What struck further and deeper love in my heart however, was the uncomplaining patience and silent thankfulness of the villagers in attendance to the camp. Lying silent on an operating bed, one man's eyes shone with trust that the medical staff would attend to and remove the tumor on his hand so that he could return to the forest and continue to survive.

There are no Department of Human Services in this village, nor is there any concept of a social support system to provide for this man or his family while the tumor was removed, or while he underwent the usual western approach to tumor treatment, including primary and secondary treatment options. The needs of these people demand that the medical staff provide immediate action and attention to the presenting issue without complicating or delaying surgery or sending them on their way with numerous different drugs, treatment plans, or specialist referrals to see how their medical issue responds or progresses over the coming months. This villagers bodies are the tools of their livelihood and the services Melghat Surgical Camp enable them to receive treatment, return to their lives and forest homes within a timeframe that would seem almost impossible for Western Doctors to grasp.

Melghat Surgical Camp touched my soul in ways I have never before experienced and I will be eternally grateful to the Rotary Club of Nagpur South and their associated partners for both setting this project up and for sharing their wonderful vision and work with us.

Industrial Amravati

2012-01-19T18:52:00.000+11:00

With so many industrious members of Rotary in the Amravati area, we have had an opportunity to visit many different work places. These visits have been very eye opening. It is amazing the amount of work that can be accomplished in an environment that would make Work Safe Victoria panic.

In a glass recycling plant we saw some amazing glass products being produced, from mirrors to wall panels, furniture and homewares.

The highlight of the tour was when we were presented with some gems to bring home with us. (Note to the men of Melbourne - the girls love their new bling!)

From the glass recycling plant we visited the workplace of the District Governor Nominee for 2013-2014, Kishor Kedia, where we saw all manner of goods produced from aluminum scraps.

Who knows, the pots and canisters that we have seen at Footscray Market could well have been made right here!

A View from the Top of the World

2012-01-19T18:49:00.000+11:00

After rushing madly from place to place, jumping in and out of the car for days it was great to get out and enjoy the fresh air of Amravati. A gentle stroll to the top of the hill and we could see the city spread out below us. You can see Jim's hosts house (and hospital), it is the one near the centre of the frame with the red panel on it.

Jim even found a chance to do a spot of wildlife photography...

...and give us a chance to do some 'wildlife' photography of our own!

Physical Feats

2012-01-18T21:27:00.005+11:00

We were invited to see the students of the HVP Mandal Institute of Amravati perform some traditional sports such as mellakhamb. We had never seen these traditional sports and were amazed at the skills of performers, some as young as 3 years old!

Of course the GSE team couldn’t help but get in on the action with Del climbing to the top of the rope...

then Mel climbing the khamb (pole).

I wonder if activities like these are covered by Rotary Insurance?

We tried hard but couldn’t convince Murray and Jim to get in on the action and try kushti, a traditional style of wrestling on the packed dirt floor!

The journey has only just begun so there is plenty of time to see what sporting prowess the rest of the team is hiding.

Feeling Famous

2012-01-17T23:36:00.000+11:00

The day we arrived in Amravati we had a full schedule booked but just because the schedule was full it didn’t mean that we didn’t have room for another activity. We were invited to attend a Rotary Fair in Arvi, a smaller town ‘just up the road’ from Amravati. Of course just up the road meant more than an hour of driving along narrow roads best suited for a 4WD.

The drive made us all a little apprehensive about what was in store for us but our welcome was amazing. Never before had we felt like Hollywood stars. Wherever we walked we were followed by groups of young people wanting to talk to us, to touch us and have their photo taken with us.

We were taken to the stage area of the fair ground to watch the final performances of the dance competition. The dancing was amazing but we were distracting the crowd from watching the dancing.

We were then called to the stage to award prizes to all of the competitors, a process that should have been quick and simple but took some time as every performer wanted their photograph taken with the strange folk from out of town!

What an incredible start to our time in rural India!

Nagpur to Amravati

2012-01-17T21:04:00.001+11:00

After spending a few days in India, we thought we had our heads around the traffic and road usage. We were wrong! Driving from Nagpur to Amravati was a an eye opening, white knuckled adventure. It was like there were no rules. Sure there were line markings and in places even directional arrows but it appeared that following them was optional.

2-way traffic, India style!

With our lack of Hindi and the driver not understanding English, we couldn’t ask him to slow down or take care. We thought that our looks of terror in the rear-view mirror would convey our terror, but that would be based on the assumption that he was actually looking into the rear-view mirror!

We would love to post a video of the traffic but fear it may be too traumatic for some viewers! We are fortunate to say that we all survived the trip and made it to Amravati in one piece.

My First full day in Nagpur

2012-01-16T23:25:00.006+11:00

Our day began with a 2 hour orientation meeting. D3030 GSE Chair Vinay Tule and District Secretaries Rajinder Kurana & Kiran Kilkarni and a past District Governor gave us a wonderful overview of GSE, our itinerary, social etiquette, dress codes and healthy eating habits. They exuded warmth and understanding. Their insights and tips were all very useful.

We were then taken to a hospital where we met a team of 40 volunteer British surgeons and nurses who were spending 2 weeks operating on children with cleft lips and palates. This magnificent project was coordinated by the RC Nagpur West . The club had spent months finding children needing the surgery, often in isolated villages, and bringing them to Nagpur for the surgical team to work on. We were privileged to meet some of the patients and even watch an operation in progress.

It has been a while since I have scrubbed up!

It is amazing the work that is done by the team here.

Vinay took us to his club the Gondawa club for lunch. When the British ran it, it used to have a sign saying "No dogs or Indians allowed". Vinay was amused by this.

In the evening we were taken on a tour of the magnificent new Nagpur Cricket Stadium. A visiting test umpire had told them it was the second best cricket stadium in the world after the MCG. They were very proud of this accolade and rightly so.

Relaxing in the chair favoured by Sachin Tendulkar at VCA

Our Welcome Dinner was an informal event held held in a garden adjacent to the stadium. DG Gopal Shiralker was there and warmly greeted us all. We made many new friends and I was asked to cut the Welcome Cake.

It was a very long and amazing day. Next stop Amravati.

Cheers from The Doc “Dr Moorai”

Nagpur - Jim

2012-01-16T12:50:00.007+11:00

A pre-wedding party for the groom (don't worry, not for me!), casual cocktail party under the stars? That sounds good ... WOW, 'GOOD' was an understatement!

This casual party had a buffet three times as long as a cricket pitch, the elevated bar sloshing drinks complete with complimentary cigarettes (I don't smoke), dance floor with a skilled techno DJ and live musician and well as fairy lights in the trees, red carpet entrance, skilfully decorated seating tables and a few hundred excited and friendly Nagpur West club members to enjoy a beer with.

This arranged marriage business is quite an event!

Vinay's wife loaned Mel, Del and Lizz sarees for the party (requested by the girls) and dressed them at the hotel. They looked FANTASTIC! Although, we forgot to ask what the other party guests would be wearing, which turned out to be just about anything BUT a saree! None-the-less it was brilliant to see their delight and hear all about the complications of visiting the ladies loo with a saree on (we are in squat toilet territory now folks!).

We are staying at the Pride Hotel at Nagpur West, along with 40 UK doctors and nurses who are working at the Cleft Palate surgery camp, they are also being hosted and organised by RC Nagpur West. They are well ahead of the operating schedule so we have shuffled the itinerary to visit the camp before lunch so we can see the last operation take place. I am out of bed too early with the anticipation to visit the camp, hence I have time to write a few thoughts.

I can describe our hosts as very generous and extremely good at anticipating our needs and answering my rapid fire of questions. Clearly leaders and highly sophisticated, they impress me with the down-to-earth way everybody is treated.

I'm having a lot of fun, it's fantastic to finally be in Nagpur and learn more about what we can anticipate in the coming weeks. Last night I met a man that owns a tiger reserve but so far I only know for certain that I will have a couple of days working with Nagpur's best commercial photographer. After orientation this morning hopefully I will have more details, but it is safe to say the visits have been thought through very carefully and I am looking forward to it all.

Cool bananas,

Jungle Jim

Goodbye Mumbai, Hello Nagpur!

2012-01-15T18:19:00.000+11:00

Leaving Mumbai at 1pm, we hopped on a domestic plane flight at 3.10pm and settled in to a quick 1.5 hours flight to Nagpur. After a split 13 hour flight to India...1.5 hours literally flew by!

As 5 weary travellers walked through the Nagpur airport to collect their bags, a slightly worried look crossed their faces. The airport was desolate and remained so as we collected out bags. We couldn't help but wonder, where was our welcome party?? Lo and behold, as we walked out the airport doors, an amazing party of Rotarian's and their wives were waiting for us!

Cheers and exuberant 'Namastas' greeted us and we were warmly welcomed with gorgeous flower necklaces placed around our necks by the ladies and and delicate roses handed to us by the men. A large Welcome banner created from our brochure photo was also placed up against a wall and words can't quite describe how welcomed and special we felt!

Our heartfelt thanks go out to the District 3030 Welcome Party.

As we were driven to the Pride Hotel, the realisation hit us...we had arrived in Nagpur and had started the beginning of our month long adventure!

The Journey So Far - Melbourne to Mumbai

2012-01-15T00:16:00.000+11:00

Bright and early Saturday morning we met at Melbourne Airport. We were farewelled by DG Keith and Gabrielle, Pres. Peter and Clara from the Altona club and our family and friends.

Before too long we were aboard our flight to Singapore, excited for our adventure to begin. The polo shirts were a hit onboard and we practised our GSE spiel with lots of passengers and the flight crew.

The flight to Singapore was long but pleasant. We found time at Changi Airport to send an e-postcard to family and friends back home before boarding our second flight to Mumbai.

Mumbai must have been expecting us - there were fireworks over the city as our plane landed. Negotiating the airport was easier than expected.

The short drive from the airport to our hotel gave us a brief introduction to traffic in India.

In the hotel, we celebrated Lizz's first international adventure and crossing the equator.

We didn't celebrate for too long, by this time it was about midnight in Mumbai and we had been awake for more than 24 hours!

A great sleep, a delicious breakfast and we were ready to explore Mumbai. First stop, was an attempt to get a pre-paid sim card so we could call home. That of course involved braving the the traffic madness. We weren't brave enough to explore on our own, we were accompanied by Raj from the hotel who showed us around, and guided us through the traffic safely.

We were told that being Sunday, there wasn't much traffic, it also meant that many of the shops weren't open - including the shops that sold pre-paid sim cards. We didn't have any luck buying a sim card locally or at the mega mall we visited but we did enjoy the company of the people around us.

Our taxi driver drove took a detour through the central business district of Mumbai on the way back to the hotel to show us some of the contrast within the huge city. None of us thought to take photos during the ride, we were all to busy trying to take in the sights.

Luckily we will be back in Mumbai at the end of our adventure and hopefully won't be so overwhelmed by everything we see and can take photos of our surroundings.

Next stop... Nagpur

India Team Farewell Dinner

2012-01-12T09:06:00.006+11:00

What a send off!

RC Brimbank Central organised a spectacular farewell for us at Taylors Lakes Family Hotel. We left the night buzzing with encouragement and are very grateful for the show of support.

District Foundation Chair John Davis, District CSE Chair Anne Peace and District Governor Keith Ryall attended and spoke on the strong history of GSE in D9800. We heard their messages of friendship, support and pride and will take these words with us.

It was fantastic to meet past leaders and members of other GSE teams.

The team depart from Tullamarine airport on Saturday Morning at 11am, next stop MUMBAI!

We are also on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/rotaryd9800gse

D9800 GSE Team sets off for D3030 India

2012-01-11T11:07:00.000+11:00

On January 14 the D9800 GSE Team, lead by Murray Verso of RC Williamstown, depart for Maharashtra, India to fellowship with D3030. It has been 23 years since a Victoria GSE team exchanged with India. Please follow the adventures Melissa Mom, Elizabeth Bailey, Delvene King and James Mepham on the D9800 GSE Blog and facebook page!

GSE TEAM - India 2012

2011-12-19T14:14:00.001+11:00

COMING SOON in 2012!

Very soon you will notice a change of team on this blog. Outbound D9800 Melbourne, Victoria GSE team to D3030 Marharastra, India will be documenting their experiences here and invite you to follow them on their adventure.

Stay tuned for exciting photography and articles!

Thank you for your understanding while the blog changes hands, we will reveal ourselves very soon ...

Texas - The District Conference

2011-06-26T20:25:00.006+10:00

After a night in San Antonio, we all boarded a Rotary Bus for the four hour drive to Galveston - the departure point for the Cruise to the Island of Cozumel - Mexico. Liam and Paul decided it would be hilarious to find the lairiest Hawaiian shirts they could find, and a quick trip to the nearest "Goodwill" (like a Salvation Army store) did the trick! They felt a little out of place - until they arrived at the dock and Paul found he had picked out a shirt that was almost a carbon copy of the ship's porters!! He almost made money in tips!

The District Conference itself was a bit different to that held by District 9800, but reasonably well-attended as far as District Conferences in the States go. About 80-odd people joined the Cruise, and the team did another stellar job presenting on themselves and Australia. After over a dozen presentations, our one-liners were down pat! We listened to RI's outgoing Vice President Thomas Thorfinnson present a couple of times on the direction Rotary is taking, and we participated in round table discussions - specifically about the future of the GSE program.

One benefit of smaller numbers than the 9800 District Conference was the chance to speak to Tom and others on a more intimate level - and really there are only so many places you can escape to on a ship!!!

The Conference sessions were well scheduled to allow for some relaxation time, and the team could frequesntly be found in and around the pool, mini-golf course, various bars, the dining area and on board casino.

On the day we arrived in Cozumel, most of the conference participants attended to assist in presenting a local special school with tools and equipment to assist them in catering for blind and deaf kids - a rewarding experience. The whole team also swam with stingrays - an experience we won't soon forget.

We arrived back in Galveston with only two days left in Texas and immediately returned to San Antonino to finish the trip.

Texas - Gonzales

2011-06-15T14:29:00.003+10:00

Gonzales - and finally the man the boys (at least) had been waiting to meet...CHUCK NORRIS!!!!! (You know - the guy ghosts sit around campfires telling stories about).

Sure - we all assumed it wasn't going to be THE Chuck Norris, but having met this one - we now know there is only one Chuck Norris and he's the one who looked after the Aussie GSE Team!!! The schedule was amended at the last minute so we only had two days in Gonzales, however, it was worth every second coming here - did we mention we met Chuck Norris? (Incidentally Chuck Norris doesn't do push-ups - he pushes the Earth down).

Gonzales holds a unique position in the history of Texas and we were filled in on all the details. We could type for hours, but prefer you to Wikipedia it! Basically the Mexicans demanded a small cannon back and on principle the Gonzalians told the Mexicans to shove it. The Mexicans came back with more soldiers to find the town ready to fight waving a flag made from a wedding dress saying "Come and Take it"...we all liked their style! (You may be interested to know that Chuck Norris beat Van Halen in a guitar dual with an air guitar).

We also went to a Egg breaking facility - which was truly remarkable. they break over 850,000 eggs a day and separate the yolks from the whites...it was very eggciting, we are now somewhat eggspert on the topic. It's also probably time to stop all the bad yolks! All white, all white - I'll stop!!!!

Tonight we've had a New Orleans themed Club dinner and will be leaving here tomorrow...the stay in Gonzales was / is short (I hope people appreciate the update at near midnight!!! - especially after several "hurricanes") but we are moving on to San Antonio in the morning in order to get to the Cruise on Thursday... so there will be (probably) be no updates for at least 5 days! Damn this MUST attend Rotary District Conference Clause!!

By the way - Chuck Norris once forgot to pay his mortgage - this incident is now known as the Global Financial Crisis.

Texas - San Marcos

2011-06-15T13:58:00.002+10:00

We were dropped off at the Embassy Suites Hotel in San Marcos, and the "break" weekend began...however!!! Given New Braunfels Rotary Club's send off the night before, we all decided to have a quiet night and we located a Thai Restaurant (a rarity in Texas!!) and all enjoyed a green chicken curry or similar...Next morning, driven by the girls ... and Ross... we located the San Marcos shopping mall and BANG - it was on...

Shopping...

Later in the day we hired a car for the weekend, which was extremely handy to have. Paul and Liam are the driver's of the group and with only one or two small scares - mainly pulling out onto roads between them they successfully navigated over 300 miles for the weekend!

Aside from a bit of relaxation we caught up with the Texan GSE team girls on the Saturday night in San Marcos, travelled to Austin - the capital of Texas on Saturday. Most of the time in Austin was spent at the Capital Building which was an immense structure and really hammered home the history of Texas and why it is a completely unique State in the USA. The history depicted within the building is huge and matches the soaring dome and huge marble seal on the floor under the dome showing a pictorial view of the "6 flags" that have flown over Texas.

More shopping...

Sunday arvo saw us head into San Angelo where we all caught up with Miles from the Texan GSE team. Paul took the opportunity for a bit of late night vocational experience while the rest of the team relaxed on the Riverwalk watching the Dallas Mavericks win the NBA championship. Monday morning and we were off to Gonzales.

Texas - New Braunfels

2011-06-14T13:16:00.003+10:00

New Braunfels...We arrived and after receiving our now familiar but no less humbleing warm welcome and being taken home to our host families, it was off to Schlitterbahn - which is an absolutely massive water park utilising the water of the Comal and Guadalope Rivers to run it's slides and other water attractions. Could have spent days there, but we only had a couple of hours - no time for non-waterproof camera phots, so memories will be held in ourheads...except that Liam lost the great water slide challenge to Paul in an embarrassing fashion - A win for Victoria over NSW!

Day 2 was spent being hosted by the Seguin Rotary Club, where we toured a County hospital - as opposed to the private "for profit" hospital hospital in Jourdanton. Same services, different motivation - really helped getting our heads around what the debate here around the pros and cons of "socialised medicine". That night we went to the Gruene Dance Hall -the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Vocational days followed the following day, then interesting tour of "Leisure Pools" a company set up by an Aussie ex-pat about 10 years ago and thriving here, then the Natural Bridge Caves - awesome underground (derrrr) caverns!

Canyon Lake Gorge was the next stop - a Gorge created in 2002 by extraordinary amounts of rain which uncovered 110 Million years of geology - pretty mind blowing, then a "tube" (float) down the Comal River - 3 hours floating (and possibly enjoying an adult beverage of two) down a crystal clear river...awesome!

That night was our farewell dinner from New Braunfels and a great opportunity to catch up with John Dierksen who can now be confirmed as the maker of the most toxic Margaritas in the world! - and the other Rotarians of Seguin, Canyon Lake and New Braunfels. Friday saw a presentation to San Marcos Rotary Club before we were delivered to the Embassy Suites in San Marcos for our break weekend. Very welcome and well timed....apart from the fact that the biggest shopping mall in Texas (possibly the world) was about 200 meters away!

Photos - Karnes City

2011-06-13T00:37:00.003+10:00

Texas - Karnes City

2011-06-11T13:06:00.002+10:00

Hello again and apologies for the delay in updates - we've had a huge few days in New Braunfels - but we'll get to that later!
Also sorry for this photoless edition!
Karnes City - we arrived and most of us were warmly welcomed in to the house - and guest house of the fabulous Bianchi family. Chrissy met her host - the gorgeous and bubbly Meredith Carter - who is 25 and will be the President of her Rotary Club next year. We all met our first ever real life "Cletus" - Cletus Bianchi, and immediately felt like we'd stepped into an Australian family's house...like all the other families we've stayed with who've been so welcoming, this was no different, but Daphne and Cletus and their two gorgeous girls really did seem as "Australian" as all of us!
Cletus immediately asked if we had an Australian flag we could fly and he actually took down his Texas flag and replaced it with ours. It was fantastic to see the Stars and Strips and the Aussie Southern Cross flanking each side of the driveway when we came and went. We had numerous discussions about the proliferation of oil wells in the area - Karnes County has traditionally been one of the poorest counties in Texas, but is about to become the richest thanks to an estimated 15 year oil boom that has just started - it's complicated, but if you own land in this county - you probably don't need to worry too much about working ever again! We met a number of Rotary clubs over the 4 days we were there and undertook a number of visits to various places including: a guar processing plant with a pretty unique organisational structure; Kimbles Longhorn breeding Ranch where we met possibly the coolest 80-something year old woman on the planet - Dr Joyce KIMBLE who regaled us with stories and observations for a solid two hours and we got to meet 'WOW' the 7 time world champion longhorn bull...seriously long horns! 120 inches tip-to-tip!!!We met an American Idol contestant and the girls were blown away by the local lads introducing themselves while lifting their cowboy hats off their heads!!! Thanks Texas - the Aussies have now had to lift our standards in the manners stakes for our GSE princesses!!!! Let's not forget attending Jimmy B's learning the Texas 2 step!
Saturday saw us prepare an 'Aussie' meal for the Bianchi's and friends - a lamb roast affair with Pav and Choc Ripple log (well - Chocolate Fudge Cookie log)!!
Monday saw us move onto New Braunfels... again very sad to move on - it is becoming a common theme that you always want to spend one or two more days in every location...but then as soon as you move on there are more fantastic people to meet and things to do - and while not forgotton, the days and weeks start to blur! Speaking of which - New Braunfels will be up next...I will try and find a way of getting some pictures on - stay tuned!

Texas- Pleasanton

2011-06-06T23:08:00.003+10:00

From Hondo we travelled to Pleasanton via the Jourdanton Rotary Club who meet at a local Hospital. We then toured the hospital (who knew that you could use the word "tour" as a verb?!!) which was not specifically related to any of our vocations, but was interesting none the less. Although there are many similarities between Victoria / Australia and South-west Texas / United States, Health Care and Education systems are NOT the same!! This was the equivalent of a Country Base Hospital in a small town complete with Emergency Department, Day-surgical centre and maternity ward, but it was a for profit private hospital...very different to Aus.

We then moved on to our hosts - again blown away by the generosity of people opening their homes to the "Crazy Aussies" - Liam and Paul lucked out moving in with Lee and Jan Ricks who literally live on a golf course...only time for 17 holes before it got dark!!

Next day we journied to Poteet, where we presented to the Strawberry capital of Texas at the Poteet RotaryClub before tasting some...ummm...interesting strawberry and blackberry wine!

Of note was the fact that Texas is in the midst of a 6 month drought, and obviously in Australia we've had drought conditions for 10 years...it really brought home how water conscious Australias now are vis a vis tanks on houses and dual flush toilets etc. Not one water tank in sight here!!! - There's a market for some ambitious reader!

Thursday saw a tour of a peanut processing plant - 25,000 tonnes of peanuts a year!! and they only represent about 3-5% of the market?! Lunch at whataburger - with the biggest "medium" size drinks we've ever seen before Specific vocational vists, and a presentation to a joint Rotary meeting which degenerated into a "Teach the Texans how to kick a footy" lesson! - Some naturals, but I don't think Australia needs to be concerned about these guys taking over our league just yet!

Friday saw us once again farewell some fabulous people and move onto Karnes City...

Texas - Hondo

2011-06-05T07:57:00.004+10:00

We were all sad to leave San Angelo, but on arrival at Hondo, we were quickly exposed to yet another new experience - staying at the Texas Mountain Ranch over the Memorial Day long weekend. We are finding that hunting is a MASSIVE part of everyday life in Texas, and this place is set up as a fully functioning 2000 acre hunting ranch, where you can spend the weekend trapsing around the bush hunting whitetail deer, elk, and some other exotic antlered beasts. Our hosts, Susan and Robert Patterson, also breed the animals in an effort to achieve the perfect trophy buck (ie. big antlers)...there is more money in the breeding than in the hunting, and it is a very well set up business akin to what some of us had seen behind the scenes at some Australian zoos.

This experience proved to be a tad confronting for some members of the team, especially the 10's of trophy animals hanging in the main living area of the house!! But as stated, this is a cultural exchange and we all made an effort to understand the history of this industry.

Some things that made it easier to understand were the pool, luxurious accomodation, hand feeding beautiful white tail deer and the fully functioning clay shooting range!!! (Or clay missing range as the case may be!!)

Other new experiences included attending the Memorial Day ceremony in Hondo, attending a Baptist Church service and community lunch; visiting the local Hondo Police Department; touring the Hondo Airport - which trains 100 Chinese pilots a year and continuing our exposure to the vast array of Texan food!!! Also attending the Bandera Rodeo, and spending an afternoon tubing behind a speedboat on Lake Dunlap at a Lakehouse.

We've now moved on via Pleasanton to Karnes City and the full schedule is meaning we're a little behind on blogging, but we'll catch up over the next few days! Keep tuned!!

TEXAS!!! - San Angelo

2011-05-30T14:16:00.004+10:00

Our GSE experience got off to a fantastic start when we attended one of the world's biggest Rotary Clubs - San Antonio Rotary Club and were privileged to hear Lieutenant General Guy C. SWAN III speak about the true meaning of Memorial Day (the American version of ANZAC Day). We then headed north-west to San Angelo where we really commenced our experience. We met some of the most generous people and were warmly welcomed into 5 families and by 4 Rotary Clubs. Special thanks has to go to Shelley Burnett, Shawn Lewis and Luke Brame who organised a busy, but entertaining schedule...activities included:

A Welcome Dinner - and informal presentation;

Vocational visits to: San Angelo Country Club and Visitor Centre for Liam and Ross; YMCA and Mosaic (Disabled program) for Tin; FBI and District Attorney Investigators for Paul; and Goodfellow Air Force Base for Chrissy;

Lunch at a famous restaurant named after the town's first madame! Miss Hattie;

A tour of Miss Hattie's bordello;

Tour of San Angelo's International Lily collection;

Tour of ML Leddy's Cowboy Boot and Saddle shop (who knew cowboy boots could cost up to $10,000!!!);

Tour of Fort Concho - a key location in the army's settling of the wild wild west;

A Chuck wagon dinner...chicken fried steak AND chicken fried chicken!!! - We now know it's a cooking process - not some freaky edible animal!;

A Cowboy breakfast - sort of spicy bacon and eggs with halepinos on tortillas...delicious;

A formal presentation to the San Angelo Rotary Club;

Golf for Liam and Paul at the San Angelo Country Club;

AND we still found time to develop lasting friendships with a number of people - not least our host families!!

No wonder that the 3 hour drive to Hondo resulted in ALL of us falling asleep on the back seat of the giant trucks they are using to get us around this fantastic state!!!!

Next report on events in Hondo will follow soon.

New Orleans - Part 3

2011-05-28T01:18:00.002+10:00

New Orleans finished with an amazing couple of presentations by Penny LeGate and Bill Gates. It was inspirational to hear how much Bill Gates has done and continues to do to eradicate polio, and without putting words into his mouth, it really came across that while he has undoubtably contributed to making the world a better place through his work with Microsoft, he sees the eradication of polio as a true legacy. At times he became quite emotional talking about how he sees the last 1% of the job being done. He showed a truly inspirational ad that I haven't been able to find online as yet, but as soon as it is available to view, you'll see it hear first!
Our time ended with a magnificent dinner at "Commander's Palace" - a dining experience hosted by the generous and magnificent John Dierksen - the Team Leader of the Texan GSE team - a meal we won't be forgetting any time soon.
We are now in Texas, and the true nature of GSE has revealed itself!!! Apologies for the delay in blogging - we truly have not had the time!!!! Suffice to say, we are being looked after beyond any expectations and are currently in San Angelo - excuse the delay in updates, and please find individual members on facebook for more regular snatches of commentary!

New Orleans - Part 2

2011-05-24T06:09:00.002+10:00

It's all very well being told that 20,000 people will be at a conference, but walking into the main conference area to find an area the size of an Aussie Rules Football ground about 180-200 meters across lined with thousands and thousands of chairs was something to behold!

The above photo does not do it justice, but this is taken from the back row. If you look very, very carefully under the blue arch you can see a small cluster of white pixels!!! That would be the performer on stage!!! Than god for the biggest TV's of all time every 60 meters or so!

If you ever needed an appreciation of how truly International Rotary is, you only need to walk around the foyer area, where literally 100's of accents and languages are being spoken...all by Rotarians.

The team are all looking forward to Tuesday afternoon our time to hear Bill Gates speaking.

New Orleans - Part 1

2011-05-22T15:32:00.005+10:00

The team has voted...here are the results:

We can't tell you what happened on night 1.

We definitely can't tell you what happened on night 2.

We can tell you what happened on night 3...but we'd have to kill you!! :)

Seriously though, we have achieved A+ results in Team Bonding 101, and the music and food has been fantastic. The Rotary Convention officially starts tomorrow, and you cannot walk down the street without bumping into Rotarians from all sorts of far-flung places.

The team went on a 'Katrina' tour this morning which combined with an exhibition at a local museum really brought home just how devastated the city of New Orleans was. On rough numbers, the population of NO (as we locals like to call it!) dropped from 425,000 to 300,000. There are still empty tracts of land that once were suburbs.

It's all dat! Bye for now.

Farewell!

2011-05-19T04:23:00.003+10:00

Here we are, 6 months of preparation, and the plane leaves in 6 hours 20 minutes...not that we've been counting down!!

A massive thank you to all the people who have got us to departure day - you all know who you are - and we all hope we can repay the time and effort you've put in. Thanks again to the Western cluster for the great farewell dinner the other night.

We'll be updating here as regularly as we can - apparently the Americans have the Internet!

So for now...see y'all later!

2011-05-01T16:12:00.003+10:00

Here we are - May the 1st and only 18 sleeps to go til the District 9800 GSE Team leaves for Texas - via New Orleans and the Rotary International Conference.

We've done more preparation that Will and Kate did for their wedding, including timing our trip to coincide with the Aussie dollar at an all time high!

For all District 9800 Rotarians, we are looking forward to saying goodbye to you at Tabcorp Park on the 17th of May. If there's still people out there who don't know about it, you need to get in touch with the Western Cluster of clubs (Melton, Melton Valley, Bacchus Marsh, Daylesford and Sunshine) ...just be aware that we WILL NOT be arresting any past, present or future District Governors!!
(For anyone not at the District 9800 conference in Adelaide this won't make much sense - suffice to say that our team has been slightly disturbed at the extraordinary number of requests we've had from Rotarians wishing to have their Club Presidents handcuffed - and even more alarmingly - the number of Rotarians that fancy being handcuffed themselves!!!)

Christine Waugh - Team Member

2011-03-30T12:17:00.004+11:00

Christine was born in Melbourne in 1981 and has a younger sister, Adrianna and now lives in Berwick, an outer eastern suburb of Melbourne. In her spare time, Chrissy loves to cook, particularly Italian food and to catch up with friends over a good glass of wine. She also enjoys water-skiing and is a proud Melbourne supporter in the Australian Football League. She developed an early love of travel from her parents and she lists Cambodia as her favourite destination so far. Her travel motto is “try anything once”!

Christine is the Work Experience Liaison Officer for the Department of Defence. Christine’s role involves co-ordinating Work Experience opportunities for students interested in a career with the Australian Defence Force. Christine has been working with the Department of Defence since early 2006 after graduating from
Deakin University with a Bachelor of Education. Christine is passionate about youth engagement and educational opportunities for young people at risk. Christine would one day like to open a learning centre for young people whose preferred learning style does not fit the mainstream educational model. An experiential based learning environment that fosters creativity, responsibility and community participation.

Christine has been involved with Rotary in District 9800 since 2002 when she was a participant on Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Christine was invited to join the RYLA team in 2004 and has remained involved ever since. 2010 will be her outgoing year as Co-Director of RYLA. In District 9800, RYLA is run entirely by a team of young people who have been past participants in the program. Christine feels incredibly privileged to have been involved in such a forward thinking district and believes RYLA has played a huge role in shaping who she is today.

Chrissy is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Southbank.

Liam Fleming - Team Member

2011-03-27T12:15:00.004+11:00

Liam was born 300 kilometres north of Melbourne in the rural township of Deniliquin in 1982 and has two younger sisters, Melodie and Bridie. Liam attended Charles Sturt University at Wagga, studying Accounting and Management/Marketing.

Initially employed as an Accountant and managing the Deniliquin Sports and Entertainment centre, Liam commenced a casual hospitality position at the Moama Bowling Club. After twelve months Liam was promoted to Trainee Manager and soon offered the position of Duty Manager. He will shortly receive recognition of 5 years service. In the short term, Liam hopes to obtain a role in Gaming Management, whilst his long term ambition would see him obtain a CEO or GM role in the industry.

Liam is a popular and highly effective trainer within the club and was recently awarded the ClubsNSW Young Achiever in Clubs Award. Personal interests are Aussie Rules football, cricket, golf, tennis, basketball (pretty much anything and everything both participating and viewing. He has been told he has a sports problem!)

Liam is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Echuca-Moama.

Tinika Van Dort - Team Member

2011-03-23T12:12:00.004+11:00

Tinika was born in Melbourne in 1974 and has two older sisters. Tinika resides in Elwood, a bayside suburb of Melbourne. Her interests include travelling, keeping fit and healthy, attending the (horse) races and enjoying a quiet wine and good conversation with friends. Tinika recently participated in the Eyes Wide Open tour of Nepal, a project supported by Rotary and currently holds memberships for Victoria Racing Club and Melbourne Racing Club (Thoroughbred Racing).

Tinika has completed a Bachelor of Applied Science - Physical Education degree, a Graduate Certificate of Sports Nutrition and Master of Sport Business. She is employed as Marketing and Events Manager for Reclink - a national not-for-profit providing sport and arts opportunities for disadvantaged Australians. The role has the primary focus of delivering high quality events for participants along with a wide range of community and corporate events which generate revenue for the organisation. Tinika has also been a personal trainer for the past 18 years and currently still works part time with approximately 20 clients per week.

Prior to Reclink, Tinika worked at the Australian Football League (AFL) for five years. Initially starting as National AFL Auskick Manager, the largest junior sporting program in the country, Tinika was then appointed as Project Manager for delivery of the AFL’s 150 Year Celebrations to communities around the country. Tinika has also worked at Softball Australia where her focus was on delivering junior sports programs and programs for Indigenous Australians.

Tinika is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Melbourne South.

Paul Bertoncello - Team Member

2011-03-21T12:05:00.004+11:00

Paul Bertoncello was born in Melbourne in 1975. He and wife, Kate married in 1997 and they have four children, Sarah, Joel, Ethan and Lauren. They live in Ballan, approximately 75km west of Melbourne.
Paul’s interests include his family activities, playing golf (fairly average), self-taught guitar; and completing mind-challenging logic puzzles. He is a tragic Essendon Bombers supporter in the Australian Football League. Paul and Kate enjoy outdoor camping with the family.

After obtaining a Bachelor of Applied Science (Phys Ed), Paul joined Victoria Police in 1998. He has attained several professional qualifications including Diplomas of Police Investigation and Management (Frontline). He is an experienced Detective with aspirations for promotion to the formal leadership ranks of Victoria Police.

Since 1999 he has been stationed within Rotary District 9800 at locations including: the Transit Safety Division; Melbourne West Police Station; Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit; Melbourne Embona Robbery Taskforce; Sexual Crimes Squad; and the Arson and Explosives Squad. Since the 7th of February 2009, he has been stationed at the Phoenix Taskforce investigating all aspects of the Black Saturday Bushfires – specifically the Churchill Bushfire that killed 11 people. He is very excited to have been selected as part of the Texas GSE Team, especially as he has not been overseas before.

Paul is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh.

Ross Butterworth - Team Leader

2011-03-17T12:05:00.000+11:00

Ross’s awards include Paul Harris Fellow with Double Sapphire Recognition and Above & Beyond Award – Deputy Prime Minister’s Community Award 2009.

Ross commenced his working career in 1968 at a premier hotel in Melbourne and had a distinguished career within the hospitality industry. In 1988 Ross and Annette commenced a catering and hire business in the western suburbs of Melbourne. Following the sale of the catering business in 2007 Annette and Ross have been involved in several property developments in and around Melton.

• Ross’s interests have revolved around international Community Service. Family Sporting Interests and Pursuits include Table Tennis, Australian Rules & Junior Football, wine appreciation, thoroughbred horse racing and travel. He currently holds memberships with Essendon Football Club & Victoria Racing Club.

Ross was born in Melbourne in 1953 and he and wife, Annette have four children and three grandchildren. Past President Ross has been a member of the Rotary Club of Melton Valley since 1994, holding a number of Club and District positions including Assistant Governor, Executive Assistant Governor, Rotary Leadership Training Facilitator along with serving as the District Director, Community Service for the past two years.

D9800 GSE Team Selected

2010-11-10T13:41:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to our District's Group Study Exchange team for 2011. They will be heading to District 5840 in Texas next May.

The team is as follows:

Team Leader Ross Butterworth (RC Melton Valley)

and Team Members:
Paul Bertoncello (RC Bacchus Marsh)
Liam Fleming (RC Echuca Moama)
Tinika Van Dort (RC Melbourne South)
Christine Waugh (RC Southbank)

The team has already started their team building activities!

GSE 2011

2010-07-01T11:00:00.002+10:00

Our District is delighted to announce that in 2010-11, our Group Study Exchange will be with Rotary District 5840 in South-West Texas.

The visiting team from Texas will be in our District in March/April 2011. Our team will be in District 5840 in May/June 2011.

It promises to be a great exchange. Please contact your nearest D9800 Rotary Club for more information about becoming a team member or team leader.

Alternatively, see our District's web site GSE page for more information about District 9800, including application forms, key dates and a video about San Antonio.

Alcoy (The final blog)

2010-06-02T03:50:00.007+10:00

Alcoy:

It seemed appropriate to leave the highlight of the any Rotary districts year until last - The Conference. This year it was held at the District Governer's (Vincentis) home town of Alcoy.

This town is absolutely beautiful and the conference commenced with the perfect way to experience a town - drinks & tapas. A group of approxiamtely 50 rotarians 'hopped' from bar to monumement to cathedral to bar to bar to bar. The best thing about the night was the chance meet many familiar faces we had met on our journey throughout Spain and also to make some new friends too.

Our most important task of the conference was too present to all Rotarians the following:

* a snapshot of Australia - Rotary, Food, Business, Sport, Landscapes & wildlife

* photo's of our trip so far (we planned to play with some Spanish music but unfortunately did not work)

* what we had learned from our trip (refer to conclusion)

* and an opportunity to say thankyou

We all tried our best to do our presentation in Spanish again and maybe demonstrate to the clubs that we had met early in the trip we were learning and improving (slowly). The feedback was sensational and all participants were most complementary. This was fantastic as we definately wanted to put on a good 'show' to say thanks for all the effort that many had made to facilitate such an experience for our team.

The highlight of the conference was the recreation of the battle between the Christians and the Moors. This is something that Alcoy is famous for. Each year the town puts an incredible show which attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. For the Rotarians attending the conference we were lucky enough to get a flavour of the town's festival - made possible by Vincentis. Please refer to photo's attached above. This was truly an incredible experience and one that we will need to detailed upon our return (We have video). I hope the photo's give you some insight into the effort that makes the festival so popular. You will notice that in the photo with the white Uniforms there is an enormous band (on the right) that plays extremely loud music which adds to the affect. It was also great to see that all the participants that were dressed up were all Rotarians!

I'm starting to get mindful of the word count for this post. I'm sure the Alcoy conference will play a large part in our presentation at our welcome back dinner so i might leave some surprises until then.

Conclusion:

This exchange has been such an amazing experience that it is difficult for us to highlight only a few of the things we learnt about:
* Spanish life,
* how our vocations function here,
* the community benefit provided by Rotary in Spain, and
* what the Spanish families have shared with us.

The Spanish culture seems so balanced. They work hard, but also prioritise family and fun. Each one of us has developed a love for extended meals sampling wonderful Spanish food and enjoying the company of friends. Spain has shown us how to take time for the things that are important.

Our vocational visits have been exceptional. Rotary facilitated access to very influential people working in our fields. Some of our learnings include:
* an appreciation of the advanced technology used in Spanish businesses,
* the difference between our countries due to economic cycles and trading partners, and
* similarities between Spain and Australia in terms of the challenges we face in protecting the environment and managing drought.

Most importantly, from the many Rotarians who welcomed us, hosted us during cultural and vocational visits, and shared their homes with us, we learnt about your sense of giving.

It was difficult to leave every town and every host family. Since we haven’t yet worked out a way to stay in Spain, we will return to Australia with every one of you in our hearts.

So thank you to all. Particularly:

* Vincente and Franz, who did so much organising and supported us throughout the trip

* Ken, a fantastic team leader that did his all to ensure we got the most out of the trip

* Colin and Denis, for making this trip possible and selecting such a great location

* Our family, friends & colleagues back home that supported all of us

While we don't want to leave, we can't wait to come back home and share all of our stories. See you soon.

Hasta luego!

Altea & Benidorm

2010-05-30T07:06:00.005+10:00

Believe it or not our last stop! (However, Alcoy will be the last blog)

Altea, Altea, Altea - what a way to finish.

This might sound a bit repititive, however, we finished on the perfect note with great food, rotarians, people, culture, vocational visits and much much more.

Our first day in Altea was a day trip to Benidorm for vocational visits, a Rotary meeting and a visit with the mayor. Known by the locals as 'Beni-York' due to the large number of high rise buildings. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. This area is doing better than many other parts of Spain (and Europe) as it success is based on low cost holidays. Normally, this is heavily populated by visitors from all over northern Europe. Dispite economic difficulties occupancy rates at the hotels are still greater than 80%. However, the mix of visitors has changed. Less visitors from other parts of Europe and more visitors from Spain. From my vocational visit to a beverage company it was interesting to learn how this changes demand. Less Northern Europeans visitors = less liqour sales. More Spainsh visitors = more wine sales (after this trip we can definately agree the Spanish like a wine or two). This was a great city but like the rest of the trip it all went very quickly and we were back home to Altea.

We started official duties in Altea with a vocational visit to a critical produce business to Alcoy (Cooperative Agricola de Altea). It was incredible to see the processes and technology used to allow the business to be competitive in their industry. Their hospitality was amazing as we finished off with a fantastic lunch (on site). We were in for a special surprise when a familiar flag was unveiled (photo attached).

Later that night it was to be our last presentation. After visiting 22 rotary clubs throughout the district of 2203 we were keen to finsh on a high...all reports confirm we did a pretty good job- practice makes perfect (well almost perfect). It was a great night and we were delighted to see some friends from Benissa return for our final presentation. The dinner was held at the local golf course, one of the GSE team members managed to find some time to test the course - purely for vocational reasons :)

Our last day was finished with a press conference at the town hall and shortly followed for our last long lunch. Our last lunch was held in a public park & very appropriate - relaxed, great food, many drinks and great company. The specialty of the day was the paella (of course!) which was cooked in a large dish and had a special rotary message written in capsicum. Unfortunately, it had to end and once again we had the difficult task to say goodbye to the friends we had made in a very short time. However, it provides a good excuse to comeback and spend more time with them...

The day would finish with a GSE team meeting with special guests Franz, Rolf & Danni. This was our last meeting in Spain and it was held on the balcony of Rolf's villa (photo above - not a bad view!). It was a pleasure for Franz (unfortunately Franz's partner was not there but we missed her), Rolf and Danni to join us for our last drink as their hospitality during our stay was amazing - Thanks very much! It was great to reflect on a wonderful trip with the team before we all went our seperate ways:

1. Ken - Flying home to run his business

2. Adam - a few days in Barcelona

3. Prue - 1 week in Ibiza

4. Trudy & Ana - 2 weeks including Ibiza, Madrid & Barcelona

I'll save the conclusions for the last post - ALCOY.

Benissa

2010-05-30T05:46:00.004+10:00

As we approach the finishing line it is difficult to imagine there could possibly be more to see in Spain - we were wrong...again!

We were very fortunate to have a day trip to Benissa as we travelled from Valencia to Altea. This town has a population of approximately 12,000 people and is located on Costa Blanco (White Coast). This amazing town possesses over 4km of beach, hence the label of the White Coast.

As usual, the local Rotary club (Benissa) were there in great numbers to welcome the GSE team, however this time there was a familiar face - Josepha (Spanish GSE member). All the Aussie members were happy to see Josepha again and discussed the similarities between our two trips. Two main points stood out:

1. How fantastic the rotarians have been (in Spain & Aus)

2. This program provides the trip of a life time and we are all very lucky to have participated

Josepha says a big hello to all of her Aussie Amigo's.

We were guided through the city in the morning seeing many important buildings of the city, such as the cathedral, town hall, house of Juan Vives, the university and the location for the new library plus much more.

After another fantastic lunch and successful GSE presentation it was critical to experience the White Coast first hand. We took a minibus down to the beach were some took a nice walk along the coast line and others had a little drink at this fantastic restaurant on the water & rocks (literrally). While keeping one eye on your drink it was critical to watch the sea at the same time to avoid an unwated bath - it was fantastic (Photo above).

Thanks again to everyone at Benissa for making us feel welcome, it was a shame we couldnt stay longer.

PS Alcoi & Altea still to come.

Valencia

2010-05-28T17:17:00.005+10:00

Hi All,

Sorry but we are going to jump a little out of order. The Valencia post will be published before Alcoi. Alcoi will be up and running tomorrow. Thanks to Prue for compiling the Valencia post.

The Conference and sights of Alcoy complete, we made our way to Valencia by car convoy. Upon arriving we were greeted by Carlos Ferrandis, our Valencian Rotarian and Tom Hanks look-alike who organised storage for our ever-increasing luggage and explained the plan for the day: we would explore the Parque Natural de la Albufera and enjoy Paella before seeing the sights in town.

Valencia is the home not only to famous oranges but also to the Spanish national dish of Paella. Realising the potential of the large amounts of water provided by Lake Albufera, a proportion of the lake was built up to form shallow rice fields. The lake also has a channel out to the nearby ocean, which can be closed to alter the level of the water and assist in flooding the rice fields and enhance the production of rice. Once upon a time, the lake was also home to small villages of fisherman, however these families are now restaurant owners as tourism increased and the lake gained ‘Natural Parque’protection.

After a fantastic large dish of Paella and numerous dishes of jamon and cheese we jumped aboard a small boat to explore the large lake. Albufera is an important resting point for lots of migratory birds heading south in winter and protected breeding grounds for ducks and other wetland birds. Once back on dry land we inched back to the city in Sunday traffic to catch up with the Rotaract members. These young enthusiastic individuals showed us the futuristic sights of the Opera House and Valencia’s expansive parkland. We also tried the traditional Horchata de Chufas - a sweet, nutty, milky drink made from Chufa nuts and later the Agua de Valencia - a wonderful mix of orange juice, champagne and Cointreau! Delicious!

The next day, after a quiet night with our host families we ventured to our different professional visits - poor Adam had to squeeze in four different visits!! The rest of us later enjoyed a lunch in a classy restaurant, then retired for a few hours to prepare for the late night ahead. Carlos took us on a walking tour of the city, visiting the Cathedral and wandering through the lovely streets to the restaurant. Prue was sick so had to go home, but the rest of us had a hilarious night with the Valencia-Centro Rotary group that, like many dinners in Spain, didn’t finish until 1am.

We had a fantastic time in Valencia and a big thank you to Carlos and all the Rotarians who organised our time there, catered to our needs and made sure we had an amazing experience. Like much of this busy schedule, it was far too short to fully appreciate such a vibrant city, so we’ll be sure to try to return in the future!

Alicante

2010-05-27T01:56:00.004+10:00

We arrived in Alicante in the afternoon and had our first presentation with the Rotary Club of Alicante at the Hotel Sidi San Juan overlooking the beach. After lunch we visited the Enigma of the Mummy exhibition at MARQ Museum (Museo Arquelogico de Alicante). This archaeological exhibition is dedicated to Ancient Egyptian civilization (about 1000BC) bringing together more than 250 exhibits from major Frlity ench museums .

In the evening we enjoyed the hospitality (and dinner of course) of our host families.

The next morning we all attended a tour at OHIM (the European Union agency responsible for registering trade marks and designs that are valid in all 27 countries of the EU.)

Some interesting facts:

The EU was established in 1958 starting with 6 countries, now there are 27
The combined population of the EU is 508million (3rd behind China and India)
The GDP of the EU represents 25% of the world
63% of the worlds corporations originate from the EU
The main goals of the EU are peace, economic & social stability, unity, solidarity

Following the visit to OHIM we all went our seperate ways

Ken - INUSA waste and recovery plant

Adam - CEMEX concrete manufacturing

Ana - CAM bank

Trudy - University of Alicante

Prue - Science of the earth and environment

We had a beautiful lunch and presentation with the newly chartered Rotary Club in Alicante at La Ereta restaurant in the Santa Barbara Castle overlooking Alicante and surroundings.

Folloiwng lunch we took a minibus to the 2203 district conference in Alcoy.

Mallorca (KING KEN)

2010-05-27T00:52:00.004+10:00

Next stop was Mallorca. Checking in was interesting because somehow everyone’s luggage had gained about 3 kgs in the last two weeks. We can’t wait to weigh ourselves when we return to Australia!

The welcome rivaled our initial welcome at Alicante airport. Many Rotary members were there to greet us with banners, huge hugs and kisses. We each dropped bags off at our homes for the next few days then went to another fabulous restaurant for dinner. Hard to believe there are still food highlights, but this time it was a drink made with the local gin and fresh lemons, served in a ceramic jug.

The next day we met at the plaza de Cort de Palma to begin a walking tour of the city. We visited the Local Government building (where Ken had the opportunity to sit in the King's chair - KING KEN!), Cathedral, Palace of the Almudaina and some beautiful patios. Part way through Trudy had the opportunity to meet with the Director General of Budget and Finance.

We were received by the Rotary Club of Calvia for lunch at the Hotel Bendinat – a fantastic location on the water. It was quite a treat to meet with an English speaking club! Lunch was followed by a visit to the TIRME waste treatment centre, then dinner with the members of several Rotary Clubs.

On Tuesday we enjoyed a minibus trip of the Sierra Tramontana, guided by several Rotarians including the President of RC Calvia, Monique Bateson. There were many highlights including La Granja de Esporlas, Cartioxa (where Chopin spent time), the Mirador de La Foradada and Fornalutx. Lunch at the Restaurant El Mirador de Ses Barques took in beautiful views of the Soller Valley and the ocean. Each member of the team then enjoyed a final dinner with his or her host family.

Benahavis, Malaga and Marbella (Costa del Sol)

2010-05-21T16:32:00.004+10:00

Hi All,

Apologies for the long time between blogs. A busy travelling schedule and preparation for the District 2203 Conference has made it difficult. So 2 blogs for the price of 1 (Benahavis & co plus Jerez)... and kindly written by Prue and Ana. Enjoy.

We arrived in Benahavis and enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at a restaurant owned by Ramiro (one of the local Rotarians and our fantastic guide and driver for the four days) and then headed off to our respective host’s amazing homes to settle in for the night.

On Day 2 we journeyed to the nearby city of Malaga for our professional visits. Ana visited Halifax Bank, Trudy and Adam were hosted by Alejandro at the Technology Park and Prue and Ken experienced the exciting world of rubbish and sewerage. They enjoyed it so much they didn’t get a chance to see Picasso’s house with the rest of the group.

Adam managed to find AFL football on the TV - believe it or not!

After our professional visits, our marvellous hosts Paco, Guillermo and Alejandro took us out for food, wine, coffee, more food, more wine and more coffee at El Pimpi, famous for its visiting Hollywood stars and Grande festival posters.

Day 3 was a free day with families – Daniella (Ana’s host) took Trudy and Ana shopping, Prue spent the day chilling out with her host Sandra and the menagerie and Adam enjoyed a round of golf and beer with random Germans. That night, we enjoyed feasts with our families and at the very respectable hour of 1am Alfonso took us to the Ana-Maria Flamenco in old town Marbella. In this tiny bar the flamenco dancers twirled while the band clapped the flamenco rhythm.

Our final day on the beautiful Costa del Sol was enjoyed by touring the Alcazhar Castle with our Malaga hosts, enjoyed more delicious Spanish food and wine. We left Malaga in the afternoon bound for the airport and the idyllic island of Mallorca.

Jerez

2010-05-21T16:25:00.006+10:00

We arrived in Jerez late in the afternoon and checked into a fantastic Jerez Spa Hotel. All the girls were sad there was no time to take advantage of the spa packages.

We had time to get settled before our hosts picked us up for an evening walking tour followed by another fantastic dinner at a locally-famous restaurant, known for a special artichoke dish. The owner joined us during dinner and entertained us with his crazy and infectious laugh (which we recorded). As Jerez is known world-wide for producing fine sherry, we had several types with our numerous courses.
After our sensational laughter-filled dinner our hosts took us for a wander through the quiet streets of the town in search of a flamenco show. Unfortunately we were too late for the show (but it was only 1:30am!!), prompting an impromptu singing, clapping and dancing by our hosts on the cobbled laneway under the pale street lights of the sleepy town.

The next morning we headed out to experience the town’s most famous exports: sherry and horses. A trip to the Sandeman Sherry distillery gave us an appreciation of sherry production and most importantly, a taste of the many different types. George Sandeman was a visionary in regards to exporting sherry to London and created one of the earliest branded products in the 1790’s and the product has remained a success through excellent marketing and product recognition. Their trademark symbol of a mysterious man, The Don, represents the sherry’s origins with the Spanish hat and Portuguese cape and the brand has become well known over the many years throughout Europe.

Jerez is also the Andalusian birthplace and home of the famous Spanish dancing horses. First bred in Carteghena monastery by monks, this iconic horse has been bred throughout the generations and appreciated for their grace, agility and pure white colour. The artistic dancing shows combine excellent horsemanship with the horses’ showy movement and are renowned throughout Europe. As a horse-lover, Prue was in heaven! We visited the carriage museum and even got a chance to look around the stables and make friends with the Andalusian carriage horses.

Jerez was a charming town, with an interesting history of honing and developing products over the centuries which have made them famous throughout the world. Big thanks need to go to our Rotarian hosts for their wonderful hospitality and friendly tour guiding.

Sevilla

2010-05-15T05:57:00.002+10:00

Sevilla is one of eight parts of the Andalucia community. Andalucia has a population of approximately 8 million people (almost equivalent to Melbourne plus Sydney). The area is divided into 8 main provinces = Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Heulva, Jaen, Malaga & Sevilla. Our super GSE tour visits Cordoba, Granada, Malage & Sevilla (and other cities within these provinces).

Sevilla has more than 700,000 inhabitants. The city of Sevilla is located on the plain of the Guadalquivir river which crosses the city from North to South. In the past the port of Sevilla played an important role in commerce between Spain and the Americas and it remains today one of the most active river ports of the Iberian peninsula.

Today we have two guest bloggers – Prue & Trudy. Prue will give an insight into her last vocational visit and Trudy will provide some insight into the shopping habits of the female GSE members. Please remember that we are tight for time which limits our blogging ability...

VOCATIONAL BLOG (By Prue):
Our professional visits have been varied & as the environmentalist, I’ve been taken to everything from waste recycling facilities, to wildlife research departments and sewerage farms. One of my favourites was heading into the Spanish countryside to learn more about farming the famous Spanish ham (“hamon”). Amidst the rolling hills and Mediterranean forest the black pigs dwell. From October to February these free range pigs eat the sweet fruit from the Quercus tree and the rest of the year, the sweet green pasture grass. These important foods give the ham a delicate, sweet flavour that the Spanish enjoy for breakfast, lunch, dinner, tapas & snacks with copious amounts of wine!
It was an interesting day out looking at cows, pigs & scenery, complete with a hearty lunch in a tiny village (population of 2,000). And much better than being stuck in an office (sorry to those reading this from their office!!!).

SHOPPING BLOG (By Trudy):
On Tuesday (our rest day), Ana, Prue and Trudy hit central Sevilla. Ana’s mission was to purchase a large number of clothes – since she’s already blown her luggage limit, exercising restraint was pointless. Prue’s mission was to take as many photos as possible and pretend she was sightseeing rather than shopping. Trudy’s mission was to find more jewellery and handbags, because you can never have too many.
It was a successful outing, despite not being nearly long enough for two of the operators (guess who???)
The girls spent 30 minutes looking for the perfect lunch venue, which was finally located down the cutest lane way – just a little hole in the wall. Bocadillos and drinks for three euros per person!
So much fun was had that two of the girls have another shopping expedition planned for Marbella on Saturday.

As for the blokes rest day:
Ken spent the day resting at the apartment.
I tried McDonalds (Big Macs taste the same – very important research). I also visited the museum for Plaza del toro – the city’s bull ring. The bull ring was extremely interesting. Apart from the bloodshed – 600 bulls per annum, this was an incredible insight into Spanish culture. I liked the story of the ‘best bullfighter ever' (sorry i cant remember his name). He started fighting bulls at the age of 9, turned professional at 14 and was killed at the age of 25 – by a bull...

Sevilla was a great city that we all enjoyed. Thanks to all the rotarians for their assistance (especially Pedro - future DG - and his wife Carmen). We achieved bot cultural and vocational learnings. Great place.

Thanks to the msgs from DG Colin and DGE Iven - terrific! I will pass onto the team.

Buenos Noche

Cordoba

2010-05-12T15:11:00.005+10:00

Next stop was Sevilla (Seviya), a 3.5 hour bus ride from Granada (Prue did not miss the bus this time).

Our first day of action at Sevilla involved a short train ride to Cordoba. To our surprise we quickly learned it does rain in Spain. Trudy, Prue & Ana were not keen for their to get hair wet and our guides were kind enough to source some very attractive ponchos (Photo included). Furtunately, by lunchtime the rain had passed and it did not slow us down too much.

After visiting Granada it was difficult to imagine that future sights would be comparable to Alhambra. We were wrong.

The highlight of the day was the The Great Mosque of Cordoba. This is considered to be a wonder of the medieval world by both Muslims and Christians. The Great Mosque of Cordoba begun between 784 and 786 & took over 500 years to complete. The Mosque was originally built as a Mosque but has an interesting combination of Romon catholic & Christian Gothic churches.

I'm reluctant to try and describe this masterpeice as any description will not come close. This is big (4 MCG's could fit inside) and hopefully the photo's can provide a 'taste' of the incredibile architecture. If you are coming to Spain (highly recommend you do), then you must also visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba.

Alhambra Photo's

2010-05-12T15:06:00.002+10:00

Granada

2010-05-11T02:28:00.003+10:00

We had a great dinner with the Rotary club of Murcia and Murcia North. I particularly liked the charitable work Murcia North were conducting – a statue for the blind to appreciate their local cathedral.

We were up early the next morning to take a bus from Murcia to Granada (250km). Actually, not all of us were...Prue missed the bus! Unfortunately her ‘taxi’ slept in and she was 5 minutes late. This resulted in a delayed departure (just for Prue) by 90 minutes and additional travel time of 2 hours as she got to enjoy the ‘scenic’ route,stopping at every little town along the way - she did make it safely!

The population of the city of Granada is 240,000, and the population of the entire urban area is estimated to be 473,000, ranking as the 13th-largest urban area of Spain. Granada was first settled by native tribes in the prehistoric period, and was known as Ilbyr. When the Romans colonised southern Spain, they built their own city here and called it Illibris. The Arabs, invading the peninsula in the 8th century, gave it its current name of Granada. It was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492, at the hands of Queen Isabel of Castile and her husband Ferdinand of Aragon. One of the most brilliant jewels of universal architecture is the Alhambra, a series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th C. This mighty compound of buildings – including the summer palace called Generalife, with its fountains and gardens - stands at the foot of Spain's highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada, and overlooks the city below and the fertile plain of Granada. (I didn’t write this paragraph, time constraints resulted in a quick grab from the internet – but ‘ditto’ nonetheless).

I can't upload photo's at the moment which is frustrating. If you are going to Spain you MUST VISIT ALHAMBRA!

A special thanks to the president of Granada Rotary Club – Jaun Pablo. Terrific host who requested we say Granada is #1 is Spain – we can’t plays favourites but it was terrific.

Thanks to all those back who have started to post comments on the blog (DG Colin & Julie V). Keep the msg’s of support coming and they will be passed onto the crew.

Cya.

Happy Mothers day from Spain!

2010-05-09T17:33:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone,

Planes, trains & automobiles...

We are currently on a train to Cordoba for a day of cultural visits and rotary club meetings.

We thought it would be nice to send home a special note to our mums back home:

Ana:
Mum, Mama, Mamo , Vase
Happy Mothers Day!
Hope you have a great day in Melbourne.
With love from Espana.
Ana
Muchos Besos

Prue:
Dear Mum,
Thinking of you & missing you lots in Spain. I hope you have a wonderful 21st birthday and mothers day and I am looking forward to celebrating with you when i return. I'll drink some yummy Spanish red wine in your honuor tonight (and every day for the rest of the trip!)
Lots of love.
Prue

Trudy:
Querida Mama y Abuela
Deseo que tengas un feliz Dia de las Madres. Estoy pensando en vosotas!
Con mucho amor
Trudy

Ken:
Julie
Happy Mothers Day from Espana.
El Torero

Adam:
Hi Mum,
Happy Mothers Day! I hope you have a great dinner tonight...say hi to everyone.
I'll sure the time will pass quickly before I'm back home.
Lots of love
Adam

We all miss you very much!

Adios.

Murcia (Murthia)

2010-05-08T14:52:00.005+10:00

Murcia is its own province within Spain. The population within the Murcian region = 1.5m people, 500,000 live within the city. Murcia is well known for producing oranges & lemons. The people are very proud of the quality of their food and wine and were keen to share with team. This is a dry part of Spain and water management is very stringent. The town often receives visitors from the Middle East to learn techniques on how to make the most of minimal rainfall. There are approximate 320 days of ‘Sunny’ weather per annum. The weather is promoting a strong increase in population, however, Murcia is deeply affected by the economic crisis and unemployment exceeds 23%. This city was founded in the 9th century by the Muslims and conquered by the Christians in the 13th century. This provides a unique blend of cultural attractions.

We started with a group vocational visit to the Cajamurcia (Cahamurthia) bank. Cajamurcia are well positioned for growth and are looking to expand into northern Europe. It is currently the 15th largest bank in Spain. This is a savings bank (similar to the Bendigo community bank), 1/3 f the profits are allocated to the Cajamurcia Foundation. This foundation supports culture (art exhibitions), research programs and provides social support.

Murcia provided several fantastic cultural visits:
• Casino Murcia – We were ready to gamble but quickly realised this was not Crown Casino Espania. Built in 1847 this is one the most visited and historic buildings in Spain. I’ll let the photo do the talking...very nice!

• Museo Murcia – A museum dedicated to one of the greatest exponents of Spanish sculpture in the 18th century, Francisco Salzillo. Something you didn’t know about Francisco Salzillo, he invented Rap music...
• Murcia Convent – Again another impressive cultural visit. A great insight into the nuns of Murcia. They were not allowed to leave the convent and the building was heavily guarded to stop intruders. The nuns were only allowed to talk for 15 minutes per day.

• Murcia Cathedral – This is the second largest Cathedral in Spain (Only to Sevilla by 1.5m, who added a flag pole. The provinces seem to be competitive).

Individual vocational visits:
I’m sorry I don’t have enough time to report on each visit but every member was very happy. We also need to leave some things to explain when we get home.

Tonight we are off to a formal Rotarian dinner with the two clubs of Murcia (Murcia & Murcia North). A special mention must be made to Conchita (Spanish GSE team leader). Conchita has not only put up with Ken & I for two nights, but has also coordinated an extraordinary experience for the Aussie GSE team. Thanks ‘Conchi’!

Important Spanish word of the day, PESCADO – Fish – Peskado.

Asta Luego (Until Later)
PS Francisco did not really invent rap music, but he was very good at sculptures.

Elche

2010-05-07T16:35:00.006+10:00

It was time to hit the road and take a short drive south to the town of Elche (phonetically = Elchay). Elche has a Population of 250 000 people and is famous for the palm trees. At one stage of their history there were more than 2 million palms trees, there are now only 200,000. The most famous of all the palm trees is the 'Imperial Palm' - 8 trunks (photo provided). The town also possesses very rich bird life as it is a 'rest break' for migration between northern Europe and Africa. Do you like our photo of the peacock from the palm tree garden?

After the short drive it was time for our vocational visit of the day, Gioseppo Shoes. This is a family business that has been in operation for 20 years. One of the features of this business was the emphasis on the construction of the building. Every aspect was considered e.g. the eco-friendly walls, floors, lighting, renewable energy etc. This business was truly innovative in many areas. Gioseppo attempt to treat their employees as an extension of their own family. The business recently received awards from the Government for their human relations management. Gioseppo allow flexible work hours, child care support & provide medical support plus much more. The highlight of the visit was the 1000 sqm showroom and the 30% discount from the factory outlet store (some special gifts Already Have Been Purchased for the return to Melbourne). Ana's shoe collection increaser from 57 to 58. We also enjoyed their business motto = HAVE A NICE DAY.

Next we were straight to the City Centre to enjoy the cultural sites. The common trend in Spain is there is so much history to appreciate. We Had a tour of the local church, they were very proud of their annual festival - Festa Elche (feast). The religion is a recreation of the virgin Mary's death.

Then we proceeded to Have a fantastic lunch with the Rotary Club of Elche. Again, the club was very hospitable and we Enjoyed Some Great Spanish food. During lunch we had an informal Q & A session about the similarities and differences Between Australia & Spain about many topics eg Rotary, Politics, Environment & Business.

Our 'guides' were fantastic once again (thanks Ana & Jose). I think it is fitting to finish this blog with a quote from Jose (Who Also Looked Like Edward Norton):

"Never look down!"

2010-05-06T16:19:00.005+10:00

Buenos tardes (Good afternoon),

We left Australia prepared for the trip of a lifetime. In just a few days our expectations have been exceeded. Spain is such a fantastic place.

After a day of recovery it was time to hit the road and get straight into our vocational visits. We started by visiting ‘Hospital de Torrejevia’ and we were all stunned by this innovative hospital. The hospital has worked closely with Microsoft to develop an information system called ‘Florence’. The system has lead to incredible patient satisfaction and recent surveys rated the hospitals performance 9.2/10 – a result that would not be too common in Australia. Patients are able to SMS the hospital to gain information on waiting times. If times are starting to become too long it may even recommend the patient visit another facility not too far away for quicker assistance. Florence also provides a significant amount of critical information to doctors so that they can manage the hospital better. I was speaking to a dentist last night who works for the hospital and if there is an emergency and he is at home, Florence allows him to work over the internet with the use of robots...

After the hospital it was straight into the city centre to meet the Mayor of Torrejeiva. Upon arrival we were greeted with film crews and photographers. We were now local celebrities (we would like to think so anyway). The meeting was published on the internet & in the newspaper.

Next stop was the local radio station where Ken, Trudy and Prue were interviewed.

The time was nearing 2:30pm so it was time for lunch. The GSE group would learn quickly that lunch is very different in Spain. The food was terrific and did not stop coming, nor did the cerverza (beer) and red wine. 2 hours later it was clear that we needed to pace ourselves or we will need to buy new wardrobes halfway through our trip.

We then went to the Torrejevia nortica (sailing club). This is where we met our first Aussie expatriate. After a few days we can definitely understand why people choose to stay.
Our last vocational visit for the day was to the towns largest exporter - Torrejevia Salins (Salt Farm). This farm produces over 700,000 tonnes of salt per annum. The salt is drawn from a large salt water lake that is 6km wide by 5km long and 1.5m deep. The water is allowed to evaporate to produce concentrated salt. Mining Boats are controlled by GPS systems to ensure accurate farming. The salt is used for food and industrial applications. Sales have been quite strong as the cold winter in Europe requires large amounts of salt to melt the snow & ice off the roads.

The last vocational visit finished at around 7pm – but wait there is more (and this is something we would soon have to get used to). We each went back to our families homes to quickly get changed for our welcoming dinner by the rotary club of Torrejeiva. This was a fantastic night and we were given several nice gifts from DG Vincenti before we conducted our presentations for the first time... in Espanol. While the girls shined and the boys struggled a little, our presentations were very well received.

Dinner finished at 1am (something else we would also have to adapt to pretty quickly) and we went back to our host families for some much needed sleep.

Unfortunately, I can't post any photographs today due to internet issues.

Town report - Torrejevia:
Torrevieja is a seaside city and municipality located on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante. A town with a Spanish population of 175,000. The three main revenues are the export of salt, fishing and tourism. During summer the population swells to over 600,000 people – it is not hard to see why.

2010-05-03T15:20:00.005+10:00

Good Morning (Good Morning).

Day 1: Rest

Our first day Thankfully Was a much needed day of rest.

After a good nights sleep, we all Have Avoid the dreaded jet lag. Most of the day relaxing and doing Was Spent Some last minute fine tuning to Our presentations.

Highlights for the day:
• Prue, Ana & Trudy met a famous Spanish singer (We will upload photo in the next Few Days)
We witness • Our first bull fight! (Refer to photo below - well done Ken)
• Ken & I Decided we needed to research Some local pubs. Our While doing research we discovered Possibly one of the Most Innovative bars in the world. Each bar table bar HAD ITS own tap (photo below)! Also, it tracks how much you consume i.e. how many liters of beer. Just wait, it gets Even better. The taps are linked to a LCD screen on the wall That Publishes how much beer you Consumed your table and you Against the ranks Other tables in the bar. It Also Provides a list of the record holders. AMAZING!
• Spanish hospitality - A Few Rotarians took the group out to a lovely dinner on the wharf Torrevieja (Photos below). It was interesting as Australians went to an Irish Restaurant in Spain!
• We Were Also surprised to meet Angela (Spanish GSE team member). She says her friends Hello to all back in Australia.
Unfortunately, That is all for today. I need to start Preparing for Our First Day of vocational visits. We are going to a local hospital and visiting Torrevieja's largest manufacturer of salt.

Adios (Bye)!

Welcome to Spain

2010-05-02T20:50:00.007+10:00

Hola! (Hello)

We have officially made it to Spain (yes, they did let us in the country).

Well, where do I start?

Firstly, let me start by apologising for any spelling and grammatical errors that will be made over the next month (I think there is a couple of mistakes there already). Time & fatigue are likely to dictate the quality of the English posted on the Blog during this trip. I hope that by following the blog during our journey we can provide an insight as to what we are actually doing on the other side of the world. I’ll aim to keep the blog posts simple and ultimately try and share our vocational & cultural experiences (and try to have a laugh or two along the way). Anyway, let’s get into it...

The journey – Part 1 - Preparation
By now we all know the GSE is a very big journey. The interview process to select candidates began over 8 months ago. Since the ‘lucky ones’ have been selected (Ken, Prue, Ana, Trudy & myself) we have worked diligently to prepare for our trip – countless group meetings, Perth conference, presentations, language lessons, uniforms, host family gifts, business cards, brochures, Blogs, sponsorships etc. We have also been well supported by so many within Rotary to give us the best opportunity to succeed. I’m reluctant to say thank you to particular individuals (because you always leave somebody out), we would just like to say a special thanks to the 9800 District Governor, Colin Muir and Dennis Shore for all of their efforts to make this experience possible.

The journey – Part 2 – Travel, travel & more travel

Despite our best efforts to prepare for a trip of a lifetime, we all felt a little nervous when we arrived at Melbourne airport on Friday night. The DG Colin Muir and Dennis Shore were kind enough to wish us farewell from the airport (thanks for the support). There was also the difficulty in saying goodbye to our loved ones as we would not see them for 5+ weeks. We miss you all already!

Once we said our goodbyes we began our long trek across the globe:
• 7.45am - meet Melbourne Airport 7:45pm
• 11:00pm - depart Melbourne, Qatar Airways (very good airline)
• Approximately 14 hours later arrive at Doha airport (Qatar)
• 2 hour stop-over at Doha. Depart Doha and arrive in Madrid, Spain 8 hours later
• 5 hour stop-over in Madrid before our final 1 hour flight to Alicante, Spain
• Rock star reception at Alicante airport (see below) by the District 2203 then to Torrevieja (30 mins drive)
• An approximate travel time of 32 hours...
• Arrive @ hotel Madrid (in Alicante) & welcomed by Pepe (President of Terrevieja).
• Finally we slept

Welcome to Spain!

Highlights that need to be mentioned during the travel:
• Ken taking over Qatar airways – Ken couldn’t sleep between Melb and Doha, so he decided to stand down the back of the plane and entertain the crew and help himself to many cokes (the occasional one with scotch) and any food he could get his hands on.
• Trudy and Ana’s ability to sleep – They almost slept from Melbourne to Alicante
• Trudy’s appetite – I’m sure this will be a regular feature on the blog
• Prue battled sickness – Don’t stress she’s fine now
• Me – not much sleep, 4 movies, a few Heinekens & temporary paralysis of the legs. I’m also ashamed to admit that I let the males down - I had the heaviest bag to check in and needed to cull a few kgs before departure – big shoes!

Doha, Qatar:

I will try and provide some information on the destinations we visit throughout the journey. While I’m definitely not auditioning for a spot on Getaway, i hope you find the ‘snapshots’ interesting.

Before I start, it is important to note that we didn’t actually get out of the airport, so these are only my impressions from the plane and the bus transfer. I’m definitely no expert when it comes to Qatar.

From the plane all we could see was sand, sand and more sand. This is a hot place – it was 28 degrees at 6:15am! Qatar is located just west of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Similarly to its neighbours, Qatar generates extreme wealth from its natural resource – gas and oil. The land mass is not overly large and the population is approximately 1.5m people. While the population numbers are not large, this is a country that is rapidly growing. The current airport is in the process of a US$1b upgrade and this will be surpassed with the addition of a new airport in 2012. BY 2015, Qatar aims to process 50million travellers per annum! Qatar is really trying to put itself on the map at the moment with aggressive expansion of their airline (Qatar), setting up luxurious resorts & hosting many large sporting events – golf & racing. A country to watch over the coming years.

Well that’s enough from me for now.

Hasta Luego (Until Later)

DG's speech at Farewell Dinner

2010-04-23T23:48:00.003+10:00

GSE Farewell Dinner Hosted by RC of Altona City 23 Apr 10. Speech from District 9800 Governor, Colin Muir:

"Firstly a big welcome to the outgoing GSE Team members: Team Leader Ken Vazquez, and members Adam Booth, Trudy Hart, Prue Simmons, and Anna Gerkovska and a big welcome to all Rotarians, Partners and friends.

Tonight I would like to talk about the GSE from a personal point of view; how this exchange came about and importantly what it will mean to the members of our outgoing team.

This year’s GSE story all began on New Year’s Day 2008 when I was governor nominee, can you believe it over two years ago, when I was surfing the internet for possible GSE partners.

Why – because DGN’s are obsessed with finding a good GSE partner. DGN Keith is going thru it right now and I am sure DGND designate Dennis Shore will go through the same when his time comes.

Nobody really knows why however I can tell you that it is one of the most important decisions to be made in one’s Rotary career. Probably because it is one of the most respected and best supported programs of the Foundation; and of course nobody wants to fail on GSE pairing.

There is a lot at stake when selecting a Partner. GSE has a huge impact on those participating; and to many it is a life changing experience, so we really do need to get it right.

So why was Spain selected:

1. Cultural diversity, Language, their education system their government and society,
2. A location that would hopefully engage Rotarians in both countries – bridging continents; as our incoming World President Ray Klinginsmith has delivered in his theme for next year.
3. Spain is on the other side of the world – as different as we could get without getting into trouble, and
4. It’s an exciting place that we Australians don’t know a lot about.
In summary the perfect location for a Study Exchange.

The first leg of the exchange has now been completed with the visit of the D2203 team here in Feb/ Mar this year.

I would hope that many of you here this evening would have had the opportunity to meet the incoming team as they toured our district.

Six (6) very talented and competent individuals and great ambassadors for their country visited 9 clubs in this district. From all reports the team had a wonderful experience here in Australia and they certainly provided our Rotarians a snapshot of their country and its people.

Also, could I say a big thank you to those involved in receiving the incoming team, your efforts were greatly appreciated. I thank you so very much as I believe the success of the program relies to a great extent on good hosting and valued vocational visits.

To our outgoing Team, Ken V, Adam, Trudy, Prue and Anna can I wish you the best of luck? You have prepared well and I am sure you are well and truly ready for the experience of a lifetime.

Can I say that I have the utmost confidence in your ability to represent this District and our country in the best way possible. That was confirmed to me in the way you handled yourselves at the recent Perth conference – I believe you will be outstanding ambassadors.

I would like to share with you something that came from your appearance at Perth, one that made me extremely proud. When I am asked by Rotarians what was the highlight of the Perth conference I say the outgoing GSE teams presentation. You may think that a strange one to highlight out of what was a wonderful line up however the reason is that the outgoing GSE segment is probably the most difficult presentation in the entire conference program to get right; to engage and capture the audience’s attention, normally the incoming team takes all the glory however you guys did it with such style that every one sat up and noticed – well done it was a great effort.

As you near the departure for your GSE experience in D2203, Spain, you will join a very special group of people. You will become an alumnus of the Rotary Foundation Educational & Youth programs.
Each year, thousands participate in Rotary’s educational and youth programs, all with the objective of fostering international understanding and friendship.

As participants you have chosen Rotary because of its commitment to world understanding and as alumni, you will have an extended network of people who share a common bond. You will always be part of the Family of Rotary.

Rotary Foundation Educational Programs have a way of forging bonds between alumni and Rotarians that can last a lifetime.

Former Ambassadorial Scholars, Rotary World Peace Fellows, and Group Study Exchange team members have participated in a unique experience that can probably only be truly appreciated by those who have had this experience.

More than 110,000 people call themselves Rotary Foundation alumni.

Our District tries to stay in touch with its alumni and we urge you to maintain your association, not only in this District but with Rotary International.

Pinning
I would now like to present you with your very special pin Rotary Foundation Alumni Pin. With this pin I formally welcome you into the network of The Rotary Foundation Alumni. Wear the pin with pride while on exchange and also after you return to demonstrate what you have achieved through Rotary.
I would also like to present a District 9800 and 2009-10 theme pin “The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands” and a Rotary kangaroo pin to complete the set.

Could I now ask everyone to please charge your glasses and be upstanding and join me in a toast to the outgoing GSE Team and Rotary International.

Thank you everyone for coming to this farewell dinner the team appreciates you support and good wishes.
To everyone involved in this wonderful exchange program could I remind you that The Future of Vocational Exchanges are in Your Hands. Thank You"

Farewell Dinner for this year's outgoing team

2010-04-17T10:31:00.000+10:00

The Australian team (Led by Past AG Ken Vazquez) will go to Spain at the end of April. Expect a surprise at the Farewell Dinner and a mystery guest. With a floorshow and music to dance too, the evening will not be boring! A fast paced, Spanish filled theme of fun and frivolity will prevail with the usual formalities entwined. We have kept the cost low so you will attend and have a great night.

Don’t Miss This Opportunity to Show Your Support and Have a Great Nights Entertainment Full of Fun, Dance, Frivolity and GSE Information! ONLY $50 PER PERSON ALL INCLUSIVE

WHERE: Grand Star Reception Centre, Cnr Doherty’s Road & Grieve Parade, North Altona (At the Westgate Fwy exit - Melways Map Ref: 54-G1)

WHEN: Friday 23rd April – 7 for 7.30pm till midnight.

WHAT: 6 Course Dinner with Beer, Wine, Soft drink, Orange Juice, Tea and coffee included all night The Rotary Club of Altona City is proud to host the 2010 Outbound GSE Farewell Dinner

Enquiries: Bryan Goodwin phone 9226 3821 or Email: bgoodwin@bigpond.com

Don't make me leave!

2009-05-18T07:14:00.005+10:00

Do you think it's possible to fall in love within 5 weeks? I do.

The tour is now officially over with all of us heading our separate ways early tomorrow morning. We had our farewell dinner with hosts and Rotarians from across the district yesterday and I know I speak for everyone when I say you honoured us by your presence. Or, in the case of Gustaw, by your willingness to dance!

We've seen and done so much that to describe it all would likely end in tears - my tears, as I am having trouble coming to terms with leaving. The attachment and love that we have developed for Sweden are so great that there don't seem to be enough words to describe our feelings.

Two words, however, will have to do for now.

THANK YOU.

To our hosts, for opening your hearts, doors (and kitchens!) to us. For being yourselves and accepting us as ourselves.

To all the GSE coordinators, who made sure that we were well looked after and stimulated vocationally everywhere we went.

To all the Rotary clubs, who invited us to present a little bit about Australia. We appreciate it all the more for your enthusiasm to get up and sing like kookaburras!

To all the organisations which took time out of their very busy schedules to welcome us and teach us new perspectives.

To our sponsor Rotary clubs in District 9800. We will never be able to thank you enough for this opportunity.

To my teammates, for being so supportive, encouraging and inspiring.

To everyone who has donated to the Rotary Foundation. Your generosity allows programs such as the GSE to run - and believe me when I say this is peace-making in motion.

TACK SÅ MYCKET!

Här gör vi så gott vi kan

2009-05-18T06:26:00.003+10:00

Mmmmm chocolate!

Hand-made!

The team visited Ryfors Konfektyrer.

Vegemite and Pavs

2009-05-18T06:02:00.003+10:00

While the Aussies gave Surstömming a go, we have also made sure to introduce vegemite to our hosts.

Most seemed to prefer our pavlova!

Surströmming is not Paul McCartney Playing The Guitar

2009-05-16T17:43:00.002+10:00

Surstömming (pronounced a bit like sir strumming) is a Swedish speciality - fermented fish.

Last night we took our chances and gave it a go despite being asked by the Swedes whether we had deathwishes. Surströmming needs to be opened outside its stench is so putrid - it's a bit like rotten oysters meets bluevein cheese meets Boss Hogg's underpants after 6 days straight of wearing them. Graphic yes, but it's the only way I could convey the visceral experience!

Anyway, it tastes ...interesting...we're still here to tell the tale.

But before you ask, unfortunately we can't bring any back into Australia with us because of the danger of a can exploding in the cargo hold during our flight. I'm sure you're all very disappointed back home...

Lake Vättern, what a team!

2009-05-16T08:58:00.005+10:00

By Lake Vättern, near Jönköping,

some adventures and daring hatched,

with friends, some leadership required,

and a dash into Vättern in 6 degrees - go team!

Final presentation

2009-05-15T22:07:00.004+10:00

It's hard to believe that we have just completed our final presentation to a Rotary club in Sweden. We are so grateful to the many clubs that have hosted us and shown us around their area during our 5 week visit. When attending club meetings we have been provided with wonderful meals, lovely conversation and members have shown genuine interest in both us as individuals and the information that we presented about Australia. We hope that we have been able to provide some insight into the Australian way of life and perhaps even persuaded a few people to visit 'down under' at some stage in the future. The clubs that have hosted us have shown tremendous support for and commitment to the GSE program, investing their time, knowledge and money into ensuring that we have had a magnificent time in Sweden. We have learnt more about Swedish culture through this exchange than we could possibly learn simply by 'travelling' through a country and we have met people that will never be forgotten.

A BIG tack så mycket!!!!

By the way, I need to add that Jamie and Mike were fortunate to have met the Swedish swinger Jessica Andersson when dining at a restaurant in Hjo, and for all of the non-believers, here is the photographic evidence.

Industries in the Forest

2009-05-14T05:25:00.013+10:00

The forests are so important to Sweden: for export of timber product, furniture, heating for homes. In Småland we stayed with families in the forest, who for generations have been harvesting the trees. It must be quite something to harvest trees planted by your grandfather! Small villages we experienced in the forest were really groups of homes with neighbours helping each other. For example, one of our hosts in a small community called Pålskog, Magnus is a Smide (Smithy) who continues a family business and tradition in ironwork.

[Read more in the post below from Catherine]

This area near Skillingaryd was also an important area building stagecoaches and buggies.

Some Eksjö and Värnamo memories

2009-05-14T04:38:00.006+10:00

We farewelled our host families in Pålskog this morning, after a wonderful stay at Pålskog Smithery, including a very memorable horse carriage ride through the village and opportunities to see wild deer and cranes. Koren, Belinda and I stayed in the yellow cottage which is pictured on the website.

We had a terrific traditional Smorgasbord dinner last night consisting of herring, potato bake, meatballs, sausages, cheese and knäckerbrod, accompanied of course by snaps and songs. The meal was punctuated with an Aussie pavlova made by the boys, to add an Aussie touch. While the Aussies mumbled their way through the Swedish drinking songs our Swedish hosts had strong voices and knew all the words for the Waltzing Matilda chorus. The Swedish singing tradition is very strong, and most towns will have at least one choir.

Now we're enjoying ourselves in the city of Jönköping - home of Husqvarna, SAAB and Agnetha from ABBA. It is also where the safety match was invented. Jönkoping County is a highly forested area with over 2,300 small lakes, and the air is so fresh from all the birch, pine and spruce trees. In 2005 and 2007 some devastating storms destroyed many of the trees in the area, and the effects can still be seen today.

Jönköping has a population of around 120,000, and is situated at the Southern tip of Lake Vättern, which is the second largest lake in Sweden, and is famous for its crystal clear icy waters. This is our second stay on Lake Vättern. We stayed in the lovely town of Hjo (pronounced "you") a couple of weeks ago - we love Hjo, and have the badges and caps to prove it!

Swedes who skate on the crystal waters of Lake Vättern in Winter say it is like flying, because you can see up to 15 metres underneath the ice. On the topic of ice skating, I was speaking to a Swede who fell through the ice while skating just 6 weeks ago. Apparently there is a different freqency of the sound of the skates on the ice, depending on the thickness of the ice. As it gets thinner, the noise gets higher pitched, so you can really hear when you're skating on thin ice. If you end up in the water there is only around 15 seconds when you can speak, and after 3 minutes in you will lose consciousness! Skaters usually carry little picks with them, to hoist themselves out in the event of a swim.

Since my last posting, we have been in the Eksjö and Värnamo regions, so I thought I would add some memories and impressions from the past week or so:

The Gnosjö Spirit - The Gnosjö region consists of the four municipalities of Sweden Gislaved, Gnosjö, Vaggeryd and Värnamo. The area is nationally renowned for the high number of small industries, enterprises and a high employment rate. Collaboration, inventiveness, high working capacity and good monetary policy are characteristic of this region. We have certainly witnessed pride yet humility in all workers we have met in local industry. It seems that the Swedish focus on outcomes in the absence of ego and status anxiety.
Visit to Store Mosse National Park - we enjoyed a beautiful Spring day walking through the largest Swedish marshland south of Lapland, which contains one of the best known bird habitats in Sweden.
Anderstorp Scandinavian Raceway and GSE go-cart racing tournament - Jamie took the winner's t-shirt in this event, with Mike the runner up and Belinda proving to be a fearless driver coming in at third place. Koren showed excellent skills in dodging my car as it spun out a few times. I would have done brilliantly if I hadn't spent so much time facing the opposite direction.
Shooting tournament at Sävsjo Skytte Center http://www.savsjoskyttecenter.se/ - we showed our skill in air rifle shooting, archery and blow darts. Mike won a T-shirt for being the best male competitor, and I won an...er-hem...much smaller garment of clothing for the best female competitor.
Ostkaka Swedish cheesecake is scrumptious!
Kosta Boda - founded in 1742, this is the oldest Swedish glassworks factory.
Komstad - we had a picnic in this town which is over 500 years old and where Jonas Jonson Bronck was born, after whom the Bronx River in New York is named.

It doesn't mean the same in Swedish?

2009-05-13T02:57:00.005+10:00

The team have had a lot of fun with words that mean different things in English!

Sweden: Land of Innovation

2009-05-11T05:51:00.003+10:00

Our days have actually been busy though, with lots of vocational visits, cultural programs and presentations keeping us busy. We’re learning a lot about Sweden and the pillars of Swedish industry – education, big picture thinking, cooperation and of course innovative Swedish design. Everything here seems to be designed with so much logic, efficiency, rational thinking and pragmatism. But despite all its modern ingenuity, it seems modern Swedish design, as with most innovations, came about due to the need to fill a distinct void – Swedes weren’t always so pragmatic.

We’ve observed a waist-height counter door at the (completely un-security screened) bank which required the staff to enter a 4-digit pass code in order to pass through when serving trays of coffee and biscuits while customers wait for the teller.

Then there’s the fact until the 1960’s, the Swedes drove on the left hand side of the road – despite the fact that they all owned left hand drive cars.

Then there was this great example of Swedish design in our hosts’ house – three doors which opened into the same space ("to make it easier to get out of in a fire"??):

But perhaps the best example of the Swedes’ less than pragmatic past lies a little further back in their history. The fortress at Karlsborg in the centre of Sweden was created out of limestone and was designed as the Swedes’ Fort Knox – its purpose was to hold the nation’s Crown Jewels, gold reserves and fighting forces in a secure, impenetrable stronghold– at the time the largest defence post in all of Europe.

However someone forgot to tell the designers that limestone crumbles like knäckebröd when you shoot it with cannonballs. The fortress was a house of straw.

But the clever Swedes had a solution: they installed super-powerful cannons to fire upon their enemy, these cannons able to shoot cannonballs to a range of 300 metres.

Unfortunately (once again) they hadn’t counted on the fact that their enemy’s cannons could already shoot accurately at a range of up to 7 kilometres at Karlborg’s eggshell walls.

But never at a loss, the Swedes insisted on another, far more innovative response – lining the fort with foot-deep iron armour plating purchased from Great Britain. This armour plating would protect their brittle limestone walls from even the most vicious of Russian cannon attacks.

After successful testing of a 1.5 metre x 1 metre plate of iron against 3 cannonball firings, the Swedes were heartened greatly...until it dawned on them that there was not enough iron in all of Europe to cover even a quarter of their fortress' outside walls, and that to attempt to even cover this much would send the country bankrupt.

But as we know from modern Swedish design, innovation, pragmatism, positivity and ingenuity always will always prevail.

Thus the story goes that in 1904 the Swedes solved this problem with a simple solution – they asked all the fortress designers, architects of doorways and others whom they might put into the class of "intellectual weakling" (In Swedish, "intellektuell vekling") to move themselves out to the far West of Sweden. Hence a new word was born, "utveckling", or in English, "development". (ut means "out" in Swedish)

Once these people had all moved to the West, the Swedes promptly seceded this land from Sweden and granted the region its nationhood.

Today that place to the West of Sweden is known simply as “Norway”.

Or so we’re told.

A very cold Jamie under the flag of Sweden from before the secession of Norway in 1905.

Glass craftmanship, power cables and aluminium in Småland

2009-05-09T08:20:00.007+10:00

The GSE team are now in Småland, staying in Sävsjö, and visiting industries in the Vetlanda and Nässjo area.

Sapa (http://www.sapa.se/) in Vetlanda is a world leader in the production of aluminium products. We saw a production process showing proactive involvement on the factory floor from the operators being particularly impressive, along with a philosophy of education within the local community and strong engagement with suppliers.

Draka (http://www.draka.se/) in Nässjo manufacture power lines specialising in 1KV to medium voltage lines. The factory tour showed us how efficient and streamlined manufacture can be when there is a strong focus on specialisation.

A highlight was a tour of the factory floor at Kosta Boda where glassware is designed and manufactured. We were amongst it all - the furnaces, craftsman and even saw designer Anna Ehrner http://www.kostaboda.com/.

Göteborg

2009-05-09T04:32:00.005+10:00

For our mid-break, the team went to Göteborg (Gothenburg). The highlight was an afternoon in Scandinavia's best amusement park, Liseberg.

We screamed and laughed on rollercoaster rides and Mike got very wet when he was sitting in the front on a water ride!

Anthony & Heidi

Jamie has friends in Göteborg. They showed us an excellent time!

We love Hjo, Jessica Andersson

2009-05-09T04:03:00.005+10:00

The cute town of Hjo (pronounced somewhat like 'you' in English) by Lake Vättern is known for its beautiful timber houses and its nice aspect on the lake. The surrounding farming country is also wonderful with with forests, smaller lakes and historic homes. Jamie and I were staying with hosts at the largest ecological farm in Sweden. We couldn't stop smiling and enjoyed many fun times with our hosts as well as time to ourselves for jogging and walking by the lake (and even swimming in the freezing Vättern water).

One highlight was meeting Swedish singer, Jessica Andersson here and her performance of an energetic Proud Mary (Rollin' on the River). http://www.jessicaandersson.com/

Pratar Engelska och Svenska

2009-05-08T00:41:00.006+10:00

As a Speech Pathologist I have been dazzled by the English skills of even the youngest Swedes. Students of 8 years of age have been able to have basic conversations with us, and have done so with not even the slightest hint of any accent other than English or American. Words are articulated perfectly, except where there is occasional confusion about our insane English spelling. I was talking to a Swede who was telling me about a diet in which you eat a lot of soap. She immediately realised the error and had a laugh, and since then I have realised how many words must be difficult to learn in English. I mean how can you know to pronounce the word "soup" as soop, not soap or sowp, when we have other words like "cantaloupe"?

The young Primary students we have visited have been enthusiastic and brave about practising their English, while the upper Primary and lower secondary students tend to be shy (in spite of their competence with English). By the time students reach upper Secondary School they are able to have conversations with us about anything at all. I have been intrigued as to why this is the case, even when Swedes haven't spent time in an English speaking country.

Aside from the fact that English is the most common language other than Swedish to be taught at school, most English television programs shown here have Swedish subtitles, which allow children to hear English words from a very young age. Believe it or not, there are several Australian television shows which are well known here (and they don't include "Neighbours" or "Home and Away" - amazing). The most commonly mentioned programs are "Flying Doctors", "Border Control" and "Rain Shadow". I have even seen "We Can Be Heroes" and "The Librarian". In many other European countries, English television programs are dubbed, which means that children aren't able to develop the same speech-sound recognition, or hear different accents.

It has been a good exercise for me to try and learn the very difficult sound in words like "sju" (Swedish for 7), and town names "Skövde", "Sävsjö" and "Eksjö". It's taken quite some time to work on the sound in isolation, and now I'm practising it at the word and phrase level. The sound is a bit like a double "hh". We are proud of Jamie who is now doing his speeches in Swedish. His tip to make this difficult sound was to imagine clearing a fly from the back of your throat at a posh dinner party.

I have also been interested to learn how Swedish language and learning happens in early childhood. To start with, there is a year of paid maternity (or paternity) leave, which means that parents can really focus on their little ones in their first year. After this time, there is affordable "nursery school" which can be attended from the age of 1 to 6. Interestingly, when Primary School teachers are trained, they are qualified to teach all ages from 1 to 12, which gives them a broad understanding of childhood development. Children start Primary School at 7 years and they don't start reading and writing until this year, even though foundation literacy and numeracy skills are focussed on in nursery school through play.

Everybody's Working for the Fika

2009-05-03T07:16:00.005+10:00

While the incredible things we've experienced over here have led us to talk lots about the wonderful sights and experiences, it's worth also relaying back home a little of the vocational learning we've experienced over here too.

To cut to the chase, here's 5 things I've noticed from a Human Resources perspective which seem to differentiate the Swedish approach a little from our own Australian ways in business and organisations. It's hard to generalise and remain accurate from my admittedly limited perspective, but anyway, here's my naive Aussie stab:

1. Swedes tend to dress down for work and up for dinner.
Open collars and jeans are often the norm in many organisations. Apparently this stems back to Viking times, when Italian silk ties were easily spoiled during a hard day's looting and pillaging.

2.Swedes very often love their work.
Maybe it's the generous working conditions, maybe it's just that they're too addicted to organisational fika, but Swedes seem genuinely appreciative to have their jobs - with all the efficiency and lean production methods, having a job means you are doing it well - at least better than the very advanced robotics that are so common to see in the factories here - so it's a source of pride. In the 1960's organisational theorist Douglas McGregor proposed that organisations commonly used one of two theories when motivating their workforce; Theory X held that management assumes employees are inherently lazy and will avoid work if they can. Theory Y on the other hand assumed that employees may be ambitious and self-motivated and exercise self-control. With very flat organisational structures, the typical Swedish organisation seems to place its belief in Theory Y and is willing to provide much autonomy to its highly skilled, motivated and educated staff. As such, I had hoped to get a job as a janitor in Sweden some day - it's usually one level below CEO, but the downside is that it also requires a masters degree in engineering and a doctorate in business management. Bugger.

3. You're ~~Fired~~ Massaged?.
Apparently when Donald Trump's "The Apprentice" was subtitled into Swedish, "You're Fired" was translated to "As your performance has not improved following our provision of 6 weeks of job counselling, 3 positve thinking seminars, 7 short courses on motivation, 5 weeks annual leave, company supplied therapeutic massage, and 15 written warnings, we now regret to say we will provide you with 3 months of outplacement and career transition counselling in line with Government legislation."

4. Industrial Relations - "Lagom is the word".
While the term "militant unionism" might be familiar to Australians, here the relationship between unions and organisations appears much more civil, sensible and concilliatory. The Swedish term for a "just right" balance, "lagom" seems to prevail. In comparison to Australia, employers listen more avidly to union perspectives, unions are more understanding when decisions must be made, and consequently there are fewer threats of strikes. Take away Fika breaks however and the whole country would stop faster than you can say "Sju skönsjungande sjuksköterskor skötte sjuttiosju sjösjuka sjömän på skeppet Skovde."

5. Seeing The Big Picture
While the big picture to some Australians may mean having the latest 72 inch plasma screen TV, Swedes seem to really look for the big picture when it comes to business.

Education is geared strongly to vocational rather than academic interests

Training investment in the workplace is often rewarded with long career tenures

The environment AND economic concerns are considered strongly when developing new technologies and very often solutions are developed where neither are compromised adversely

The community are often consulted and involved in new investment and development

Businesses frequently see opportunities instead of obstacles in defying convention or taking risks

and

A small population does not limit their perspective in regard to the size of their potential market

"Vinnarskalle" (winner's mentality) is a pervasive mindset here and the world is their oyster. Talking of seafood, Mike and I had a great meal of seasoned and seared salmon tonight. I am starting to worry that the big picture I bring home might be a picture of my stomach.

Forsvik's big ship project

2009-05-03T07:15:00.011+10:00

In Forsvik on Lake Vättern, we met the people of Föreningen Forsviks Varv, the shipyard association who are building a paddlesteamer, Eric Nordevall II. This steamship will be a replica of the Eric Nordevall (1836) which sank 20 years after it was built. We met many of the volunteers involved and learnt that this project is a true labour of love.

The Eric Nordevall II will go on the water this summer.

Under beautiful skies and the flag or Norway and Sweden from the 19th century we were then treated to a trip on Lake Vättern in a little steamboat which looked just like the boat from the movie The African Queen.

Furniture design and pride in achievement: Tibro

2009-05-03T03:44:00.005+10:00

In Tibro we visited the Hantverkscentrum (Folksuniversitet). We discovered that it is more than a technical training centre in craftsmanship. This a centre for new ideas in the business development cycle for furniture design, youth engagement in the arts of furniture craftsmanship, design through to furniture expositions and the showroom floor. Examples of the work include woodcarving, guilding, and furtniture restoration. We would like to thank the student pictured, Pernilla Blixt for talking to us about her work with antique furniture and we wish her well with her ambition to work in the Royal Danish Court.

At the Tibro Fågelviksgymnasiet we were each assigned a student in their final year of studies (economics and English). We were impressed by their enthusiasm for their studies, their careers and other ideas for their future including travel. Some of them are pictured with us below. I would particularly like to thank the students I talked to, Carolina Enlund and Louise Johansson.

Rock band

2009-05-03T01:32:00.003+10:00

All work and no play makes a GSE team pretty boring. Luckily for us, our host families are providing us with plenty of opportunties to have a laugh and get to know them and each other a little better. Last night we were lucky enough to be invited to have dinner at a beautiful lakeside restaurant where, in what is quickly becoming GSE tradition, we were joined by the Rotarians in some quite amusing and very enjoyable dancing. It is all a part of the true cultural exchange and is helping us all to get a better understanding of the Swedish sense of fun (which is actually very much like our own).

Recipe for a perfect Saturday

2009-05-03T01:29:00.006+10:00

Ingredients:
- glorious Swedish spring day
- fantastic food
- good friends
- beautiful scenery

Directions:

1. Take all ingredients and combine.

2. Hike through picturesque forest until you come to an equally picturesque lake. Unpack, start campfire.

3. Play Kubb, girls versus boys (thanks to Anders for becoming an honorary girl to even out the team!).

4. Prepare a lunch of fire-toasted sausages and cold Swedish beer.

5. Stand with some of your best friends on a rock for a photo - just because you can.

6. Beat boys at Kubb.

7. Indulge in some fika.

8. Take a leisurely path home, finishing the day by baking pavlova for your hosts.

Serves many, satisfies all!

Spring has sprung

2009-05-01T18:28:00.005+10:00

Last night we celebrated "Valborgsmässoafton", which marks the official beginning of Spring. Traditionally, bonfires are lit, but due to the very dry weather conditions (in spite of Sweden looking greener than Melbourne in September) it was considered too dangerous to light fires, so we had a lovely dinner at Bodil Olsson's house, and watched fireworks instead in Tibro. Now today is Labour Day National Holiday!

Ten random, interesting things I have learnt about Sweden:

There are 4 different types of /r/ sound, which vary from the trilled /r/ at the front of the palate to a kind of throat-clearing noise at the very back. It's hard enough for children in Australia to learn just one, so thank goodness I'm not a "logoped"/"talpedagog" (Speech Pathologist) in Sweden
When you say "skol" (cheers) in Sweden, you must make eye contact with everyone in the room, take a sip, then make eye contact again before putting your glass down. I am yet to learn the consequences if you don't follow the rules....
There are hundreds of songs which have been written specifically for drinking snaps (vodka), and there is a competition each year to write a new one
If it's your birthday, you get an extra cheer (ie. 4 cheers instead of our traditional 3)
The distance from the Southern to Northernmost point of Sweden is equivalent to the distance between the Southermost point of Sweden and Rome.
The word "Fika" (coffee break) actually originates from the word "Kaffe". The syllables were swapped around to "Fe-Ka" and then it eventually became Fika
ABBA won Eurovision in 1974, and we will later be visiting the home town of Agnetha, which is Jönköping (pronounced "yernsherping")
This is the time of year when the mother moose rejects her calf, forcing him to head out on his own, which means the roads are a little more dangerous with confused orphaned moose wandering around
Half of the land surface of Sweden is covered by forest
The highest mountain in Sweden (Mt. Kebnaise) is 2,111 metres.

Front Page!

2009-04-30T06:44:00.002+10:00

I say potatoes, you say potatis

2009-04-30T05:56:00.003+10:00

I always thought a potato was a potato... Until I arrived in Sweden. Oh my goodness, they are fantastic here! Any way you have them - roasted, mashed, pressed or plain old boiled. They really have a superior spud over here. Even the birds and animals here think so. The cranes which stop in Falköping on their way from Spain to northern Scandinavia originally did so so that they could feed on the potatoes. Just a bit of carbo loading for them on their marathon journey north. When I was out riding with my host family this morning I passed a pile of potatoes around the size of a child's sandpit, just lying out in a field. They were NQR for human consumption, so the farmer had left them out to be eaten by moose, deer and wild boars. Apparently they would be gone in days.

On the topic of potatoes, we've been here only two weeks, and the GSE (aka Girth Size Expansion) program is going really well. I'm happy with the stretchy fabric of our uniforms, but am a little concerned that polysester/viscose/elastane may not be able to take another 3 weeks of fabulous Swedish food. Which is why I'm setting my alarm early each morning to go for a shuffle and try and even up the energy input-output ratio. It gets light by about 5.30, so it's pretty easy to get going early. And we're still being treated to such glorious Spring weather, so it's quite lovely once you get out. There's a Swedish saying about this time of the year that says "the birch trees have mouse ears" which means tiny green leaves have appeared. It looks lovelier each day. When I get back there's usually a breakfast of bread with caviar and cheese waiting, which derails earlier efforts to a certain extent, but I am determined to embrace all aspects of Swedish culture. I wonder why Aussies haven't cottoned on to the cheese and caviar for breakfast concept yet... I plan to import that one.

MI: climb that windmill

2009-04-29T08:15:00.004+10:00

Jag pratar Golf?

2009-04-29T07:20:00.004+10:00

After today, I've decided I play golf much like I speak Swedish - I try hard and do my best, I often put things in the wrong spot, I sometimes embarrass myself, and while I'm not really good at it, the Swedes are patient in encouraging me despite my frequent rough patches.

...where better to talk about organisational psychology, recruitment and HR?

"No building of other towns called Ekedalen here" ("Ekedalen förbjuden! Ej Ekedalen!")

Tack till Patrick, Katta, Conny, Nils och speciellt tack till Familjen Wärmegård... Tack också till alla vem har varit så snälla till mig i Tidaholm / Falköping. Jag hoppas vi ses snart! Och som jag får tackar på bloggen, jag måste också säger speciellt tackar till Jonas och Carina Ahlström, Göran och Kerstin Grahn och Anders Ånborg!

Just like heaven

2009-04-29T04:52:00.002+10:00

Did you ever imagine yourself climbing 98 metres into the sky, the last 20 metres being held up only by a harness and your own upper body strength? No?

Well, we did yesterday. Four of the team spent yesterday afternoon ascending to dizzying heights in what felt like (but we're sure wasn't!) a rather rickety elevator, then climbing a ladder for the final 20 metres to stand at the top of a 98-metre tall wind turbine.

Pictures will follow, but I assure you the view was incredible!

The Beautiful Redheads of Tidaholm

2009-04-28T09:17:00.004+10:00

Today we visited Swedish Match Industries AB and saw where the Aussie Redheads come from. Tidaholm has been significant in match production since 1868 when Tändsticksfabriks AB Vulcan was founded.

Retire! Retire! Tjäder Attack!

2009-04-28T08:38:00.003+10:00

Here's the bird that Koren wrote about in her post which caused us to run! Hiking in the Billingen near Skövde we were priviliged enough to see a beautiful tjäder (grouse or black woodcock). It is rare to see one in the wild. The tjäder wasn't too happy though and quickly defended its territory.

Fartlek is not a dirty word...

2009-04-27T15:53:00.002+10:00

Nothing like a fartlek run in the Swedish country side to start your day! (Click the link to find out more)

Images in the countryside

2009-04-27T07:14:00.006+10:00

Swedish country side where we have hiked and beautiful timber homes

Cold weather outside Läckö Slott Castle, and Jamie running from a smelly forest pit toilet

A Lazy Swedish Sunday

2009-04-27T04:31:00.002+10:00

It's a quiet Sunday evening in the lovely land of Tidaholm

http://www.maplandia.com/sweden/skaraborgs-lan/tidaholm-kommun/tidaholm/

and I (along with the rest of the team) have had the last few hours to take a breath, sigh, pinch myself a few more times and marvel at the range of experiences we've had over the last 9 days. Apologies for the the run of blog entries today after a long quiet spell from many of us, but as you can see, there has been way too much Swedish fun to be had to sit down and write about it!

Jamie was right in saying that it's impossible to know where to start when we have already seen and experienced SO much. Let me start by saying "Tack så mycket" to the families who have given us a bundle of magnificent memories so far. I would like to personally thank:

Kalle & Eiwor Bynke in Skara
Katharina Grahn & Tobias Mann and their children Carl and Anna in Mariestad
Kenneth Franzen & Jörel Holmberg and their children Ida, Astrid and Jens in Skövde
Sven and Birgitta Ingvar-Nilsson in Tidaholm (where I am staying now)

While all of us have been fortunate enough to have travelled a bit of the globe in our lives, we are so grateful to have this amazing experience of being welcomed into homes, families and very busy life routines. It's been terrific to be part of it all - cruising the supermarket aisles, meeting extended family members, walking dogs, chatting over the breakfast table, playing piano duets, going to concerts, riding horses and enjoying lots of Fika (coffee and cake break).

I remember marvelling at the glossy photos in my Sweden guidebook before I left Australia, but now that I'm here I can't believe how beautiful this country is in real life! The churches and houses which are nestled in the countryside are all so beautiful and so....Swedish. Words don't adequately explain, so as soon as we're able we'll post some photos. But for now, just imagine how you would design a perfect doll's house, and there you have your average Swedish country home, which usually comes with rows of daffodils and a long tapered Swedish flag flying. Most of the houses and barns are painted in red, the pigment of which was originally surplus copper from mining. With the white trim, they're a bit like gingerbread houses (or maybe I've just been eating too much cake at Fika time...)

We have really arrived at the prettiest time of the year. In less than 2 weeks we have seen some magical Spring transitions. Carpets of blue flowers gave way to tiny white flowers speckling the forest floors. More and more birds are bursting into song, and there are hints of brilliant green on many of the trees now. Also, the weather has been just glorious over the past few days. We even saw a Swedish lady gardening in her bikinis yesterday. We did freeze in the first few days we were here, which wasn't helped by our Aussie false assumption that a blue sky meant leave the warm clothes at home. Whoah, Jamie and Mike learnt their lesson when we visited Läckö Slott castle on the edge of Lake Vänern. Our experience of the initial cold snap (and pathetic coping skills with it) means that like the Swedes, we can really celebrate the arrival of the Spring now. We had a glorious walk through the forest in Billingen near Skövde on Thursday, and I assert that if there is a forest in heaven, that would be it.

Well, I think that's nearly enough from me for today. I'm going to sleep well tonight after the District 2380 Conference Gala Dinner last night, the conference today. Thanks to Conny for translating some of the speeches into English. It was really terrific to catch up with our friends from the Swedish GSE team this weekend. After the conference this afternoon I went riding with my host-mother Birgitta on her Icelandic Horses. This breed was brought to Sweden by the Vikings around a thousand years ago. They have a lovely temperament, and are well known for their extra pace, the "running walk" in which you can hold a pint of beer while riding and not spill a drop. I'm yet to test that out. These horses are also stable-trained, and can take a whizz on Birgitta's command! It was exciting to see my first deer in the forest when we were riding, and then come home to a wonderful meal of moose and potatoes - all from the farm.

Falköping

2009-04-27T03:30:00.002+10:00

Wow, the wonderful GSE committee in district 2380 has created the most amazing program for us during our stay in Sweden. Each of us has already had wonderful experiences with our host families, seen incredible sights and made informative and eventful vocational visits. Right now the team members are breathing a little easier after making our presentation at the district conference. Thank you to all of the rotarians who got up early on a Sunday morning to listen to us speak and offered us such lovely comments. However, the formalities are by no means over and we look forward to our next presentation tomorrow at Titaholm Rotary Club.

Disco Mania

2009-04-27T02:29:00.004+10:00

After anointing District Governor Jim Studebaker 'Disco Jim' at the 2009 District Conference in Launceston, it appears we have found his Swedish counterpart here in District 2380!

During the banquet dinner at Conference in Falköping last night, several groups made toasts and entertained us with songs. Not to be outdone, the Swedish GSE team soon took the stage, dragging the Aussie team up with them to sing Mama Mia. Who should suddenly appear alongside the group, dancing with Helena, but District Governor Sigvard Oscarsson. It seems that dancing is a pre-requisite skill of District Governors worldwide!

The legend of Disco Jim has spread far and wide, as in front of all gathered at the Conference plenary session this morning, District Governor Sigvard asked the team to pass best regards to 'Disco Jim' from 'Disco Siggy'!

Perhaps we need to consider changing the title from District Governor to Disco Governor?