Karen and I must thank all the Clubs we have visited to date: Blackwater, Barcaldine, Longreach, Mt Isa South West and EClub of the Outback in Tennant Creek for the professional way you have conducted the meetings, and for the fun fellowship and opportunities to share your communities with us.

Most Rotarians are busy and successful, professional/business people because they hear opportunities knock and take advantage of them. We have really noticed that quality in the Rotarians we have met. Karen and I are certainly taking advantage of all the opportunities we are being offered by clubs as we go throughout the District. 

Once a week or fortnight the opportunity for Rotary fellowship occurs at each club meeting (in person or through technology), and we have been privileged to be part of that. I believe that the weekly or fortnightly club meeting is a special privilege of Rotary membership. It provides the occasion to visit with fellow members, to meet visitors you have not known before (your DG and his wife), and to share your personal friendship with other members.

From my observation “friendly" Rotary clubs follow these few simple steps: First, members are encouraged to sit in a different seat or at a different table each week. Second, Rotarians are urged to sit with a member they may not know as well as their long-time personal friends. Third, members invite new members or visitors to join their table just by saying: "Come join us, we have an empty chair at this table." We have really seen this at the EClub of the Outback meeting with invitations to join the DG Visit meeting taken up by representatives of Lions and CWA,  new teachers such as Phoebe Chan and friends of Rotary in Tennant Creek. Fourth, members share the conversation around the table rather than merely eating in silence or talking privately to the person next to them. Fifth, Rotarians make a special point of trying to get acquainted with all members of the club by seeking out those they may not know both before and after the meeting. 

I especially love the photo of Karen after the meeting with Mt Isa South West that Area Governor Trevor Hyatt took, which really shows this quality. We have experienced this and have felt at home.

When Rotarians follow these five easy steps, an entirely new opportunity for fellowship and new experiences knocks each week.

 Soon Rotarians realize that warm and personal friendship is the cornerstone of every great Rotary club. And this is why I can honestly say I am enjoying the position of District Governor so much.