The meeting was held on Zoom. Chair was Peter Nolan and the guest speaker was Brad Rowswell MP, Member for Sandringham. President Helen welcomed all members and wished our Jewish members a happy Jewish New Year. She also reminded board members of the board meeting on 14 September 2021.
Peter Nolan welcomed Brad and gave a brief summary of his background. This is Brad’s first term aa Member of Parliament. He replaced Murray Thompson and was successful in getting elected in 2018. Brad was born and raised in Sandringham. He went to local schools and graduated from university with an Arts and Philosophy degree. Brad stated that, his obligation as a member of parliament is threefold. Firstly, to look after his constituents, secondly to ensure that Victoria does not become a one-party state, and thirdly to offer a credible alternative as government.
He regards politics as a vocation which is inspired by an underlying desire to help. The opportunity to help is the motivating force for him. He touched on Liberal policies and proposals and stated that, in his view, the health advice from which decisions on covid have been made should be released. It has been reported to him that mental health issues in schools have increased significantly. In addition, the effects of mental health, hope and relationships on the wider population beyond the covid immediacy have a “longer and sharper tail.” He indicated that volunteers are the foundation of the community and thanked Rotarians for their service to the community.
In response to questions, Brad stated that when the Liberals get into Government, the first thing that needs to be done is to “go through the finances” as there is waste and mismanagement in projects. It is hurtful to see so many missed opportunities as a result of projects being over budget or not completed on time. In responding to what RCBMC can do during this time, Brad indicated that in a crisis, the first thing do is to look after the people. One opportunity is to contact the school principals to ascertain what assistance can be provided to the students particularly in the area of mental health. Brad was thanked for his presence and talk.
Sergeant John Mason noted that Spring had sprung, and extracted a range of fines related to footballers names, absence of haircuts, and Ron’s optimistic Market Roster. President Helen closed the meeting and reminded members of the Zoom trivia night (about footy) on Thursday 9 September 23021 at 7.30pm.
