Another Wonderful Year with the Apollo Bay Discussion Group
6th November 2015
The Discussion Group held its first meeting on 8th August, 2013 and we are thrilled to say we're now into our third year of operation. Well done Apollo Bay! You may recall Ron Clark thought this would be a good idea to involve the community in relevant and sometimes controversial life issues. Our new Committee – Barb Birkett, Wendy Cookes and Margie Murphy and me – Di Clark, are looking to continue Ron's legacy and have been so thrilled with the past year.
We've had amazing speakers – many of whom are now being recommended by you the attendees – which has made for stimulating discussions at our Q & A segment. The group has grown in numbers with an average of around 35 each meeting – even through winter.
As you know we ask for "donations" each meeting which, after paying any costs associated with our speakers, we hold for the end of the year to distribute to worthwhile groups in the community – hopefully in time for the summer, Christmas period.
This year we are happy to report three recipients – these being: Sisters of Mercy (to distribute at their discretion), the CFA (an amazing voluntary and often forgotten resource we are so fortunate to have in Apollo Bay) and the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden at the Apollo Bay P-12 College.
As most will know we have cancelled the November meeting (due to the renovations being undertaken at the Apollo Bay Hotel), and will recommence next February, 2016 with a past speaker that you'll be pleased to hear about – THOM COOKES - who holds the record for number of attendees -being 92!!
So keep the potential speaker names coming and let one of us know so we can make contact. Already we have quite a few names for 2016 but are always interested in building that list.
We thank you all for your support and look forward to seeing you all in 2016 and more importantly thank you for continuing Ron's initiative – he would be so thrilled. All the best for a safe and happy Christmas to you all.
Di Clark
On behalf of our Committee
