Sergeant Patrick introduced Co-President Gary who opened the meeting with a special introduction to our guest speaker Wayne Brown. He also acknowledge other guests, (7 in total), including Desley Simpson and, of course, a warm welcome was extended to all 21 club members present.Club Notices:
Regionalistion: Gary apologised for the amount of information that had been shared over the last 2 months surrounding this move and he thanked all members who had participated in the process which has ended up with the St. Johns vote exceeding the minimum 75% eligible voters voting in favour of the "pilot" going ahead. We will now need to wait until all votes from clubs in Zone 8 to know the final result.
Quiz Night: Now only 18 days away. To date there are only 10 tables sold and we need at least 20 to be sold. Please see separate story below and please buy your tickets now.
Presidential Citation: Gary extended the clubs congratulations to our last years Co-Presidents Penny & Lesley who have just received this award. Well done for your achievement ladies, and well deserved.
Beyond Waters founders, Sharon and Peter Crean: were also present and Sharon provided a brief update on the organisation, as well as inviting all members to attend their upcoming Dessert Meeting event to help raise further funds for their "Peddle Against Poverty" 27 day bike ride, from Cape Reianga to Bluff. The cost is only $20 pp on 18th November, at Mellons Bay. Check out Sharon's Facebook page for more details.
Guest Speaker - Wayne Brown Auckland Mayoral Candidate:
Kevin had the honor of introducing Wayne, who before commencing his talk, extended his sincere congratulations and thanks to St. Johns Rotary for the efforts they are putting in to help the environment via the numerous activities that we are involved with.Wayne decided to run for mayor about two and half years ago after it was frequently suggested to him by many individuals and organisations who liked his style, his knowledge, and understanding of the issues facing Auckland. He also commented that another reason to stand was to help to stem the flow of the one third of Aucklander's either leaving Auckland, or considering doing so.
Wayne speaks his mind and is not slow to share his thoughts and position when he sees so many areas in Auckland that are not performing as they should be. Some of the sound bites from his talk were;
- There is an overspend in most areas of council and their activities.
- The City Rail Link is way over budget and there is still no announcement on completion date.
- Covid is being used as an excuse far to often - yes there has been an impact, but Covid cannot be used as an excuse for every delay and overspend.
- Three Waters is a nonsense and he has had personal experience in other similar type situations to know it won't work.
- Carless Housing Developments won't work, particularly in areas where there is no public transport or plans for such.
- Ports of Auckland are a disgrace.
Wayne stated that he has a great track record dealing successfully with issues like Auckland is facing, as well as doing so on-time and within budget and will bring a no nonsense approach to the job.
He finished his talk stating that Auckland needs a truly independent Mayor and one that will stand up to Government in Wellington and he believes he is the only candidate who can do this.
Many thanks Wayne for your time, and for sharing your thoughts - we wish you well in your endeavours.