Hi everyone,

Our Boatshed adventure continues, and from the feedback from those attending—around 20 members—it seems to be going rather well. Yes, it is a little cosy, and the technology is not quite ideal, but there is a wonderful sense of fun and camaraderie, which I am really enjoying.

Last night we had the pleasure of hearing from Josh Irwin, the youngest Touch New Zealand referee to attend the Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup in Mudgee, Australia. Josh gave an excellent and inspiring presentation, and it was clear to all of us that he is a talented young man with a very bright future ahead. He is also fortunate to have the exemplary support of his dad, Craig, and his wider family and our great community.

On 17 August, we will return to the Hilltop. Our guest speakers will be the Honourable Steve Maharey, Chair of Central Waters, and His Worship the Mayor.
We had originally planned to take a break on 31 August; however, following a conversation last night, we will now be heading out for a secret visit, kindly arranged by Mark Ammundsen. More details will follow next week.

A quick Rotary update: District 9949, covering the lower North Island, and District 9999, covering the South Island, are set to merge into one district from 1 July 2028. This is part of a wider Zone 8 restructuring, which will reduce the number of districts from 19 to 9 in response to declining membership and sustainability concerns.

A reminder that Quiz Night is now planned for Friday 25 September at the Chalet, all going well and the windows will be complete. A small committee has been formed, and planning is underway. We are looking for teams of 4–8 people, and they do not need to be Rotarians. We will also help place individuals or smaller groups into teams. The evening will run from 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm, with supper provided. It promises to be a fun night and a great opportunity to showcase the club to our friends and family.

If anyone has any quirky prizes tucked away at home, we would be very grateful for donations.

Have a great week, team. We look forward to seeing you again on 17 August at the Hilltop.

Kind regards,
Barb

Michael Parker — 3‑minute spot

Michael joined Milson Rotary earlier this year and comes to us from rural West Auckland, where he enjoys the wild West Coast beaches. He’s an occupational therapist, splitting his time between community rehab—visiting stroke and fracture patients across the region—and older‑persons mental health. Michael is also active in conservation work, from planting to pest control, supporting efforts to reintroduce kiwi to his local rohe. Married with three adult children, he’s loving the shift from long Auckland commutes to walking beside the river here in Palmerston North. He gets back to Auckland every four to six weeks.