The Rotary Foundation – District 9780
Group Study Exchange 2006-2007
Part 5010- Eastern Russia/Siberia
December Update:
I am delighted to report that our Team to travel to Siberia next May/June has been meeting regularly and is extremely well advanced in its preparation. The Rotary Foundation in America has confirmed the receipt of all documentation required to approve travel arrangements for its members.
However our incoming Team is not so well organized. Their itinerary was finalized by PP Martin Hill in mid November and ready to send to clubs when we were advised that the Governor of 5010 was not satisfied with her Team.
She requested that selection processes be recommenced with an end of November deadline.
We were also asked if the arrival date of 5 February could be changed to later that month. We decided that it was possible to delay arrival until 22 February as that would be the latest the Team could arrive and have time for some involvement with our District before appearing at the Conference in Warrnambool.
Substantial ongoing three way discussions have been held at all levels between our two Districts and The Rotary Foundation, but as at the time of writing, we still do not have details of the Siberian Team, vocations of its members or the final date for arrival.
We are, however still confident we will receive the Team during February but cannot specify dates, its composition and interests or the sequence of the itinerary.
The patience and willingness of our clubs (who offered to host) has been magnificent. Each has confirmed its intention to continue with its involvement in spite of knowing that they may be operating with very short notice.
The printing and distribution of our usual GSE Booklet containing the itinerary and relevant information on the participants is currently on hold, and with printing companies about to close for the holiday season it is unlikely that we will be able distribute it as usual.
However we will be providing the booklet in the following ways:
To clubs – by email but because of the size of the file, with all photographs removed for the benefit of those
without Broadband.
On the District Website (complete with photos) – www.rotary9780.org and through ClubRunner.
On request (complete with photos) to me on valed@pipeline.com.au by 15 January 2007.
Please bear with us as we endeavour to ensure the arrival of the Team from Siberia and in particular, in time to be present at out Conference where we are confident they will receive a true 9780 welcome.
With every good wish for a wonderful and safe festive season to all Rotarians and their families.
On behalf of the District GSE Committee,
Eddie Loughnan
District Chairman 20 December 2006
