International - overview

The chairman of the International Committee is currently Michael Austin, who has been a club member for 12 years.  Michael feels the role of International Services Chair gives him a wonderful opportunity to lead and to participate with club members in addressing key international issues, such as literacy and training, peace, health and sanitation, clean water supplies, disaster relief and building projects that are beyond the capability of local people.   Michael attends Rotary International conventions (next one New Orleans in May), gaining information and sharing experiences with Rotarians from all over the world.

Most recently, the committee’s interest has become focussed on providing basic, naturally sourced electricity supplies to remote communities in the Pacific.  Channelling a shared interest with Rotarians of other clubs and districts, the development of simple and affordable systems that will drive better communications systems are targetted, thus helping schools and clinics in the Pacific to power computers, refrigeration and lighting.

Historically, the Rotary Club of Sydney Cove has had an adventurous approach in responding to the needs of communities within “zone eight”, the little slice of the Rotary World that includes Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and East Timor. “Hands-on” projects, building clinics, toilet blocks and hospital buildings, led by a variety of talented “multi-taskers” (men and women, young and old) have assisted communities particularly in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

Recent and current projects are as follows:

Encouraging sponsorship of a Rotary peace student

Partnering with the George Institute on “e-health” development in the Solomon Islands

Funding numerous “ShelterBoxes” in response to natural disasters

Providing “Kits 4 Kids”, educational materials for children in the Solomon Islands

Monitoring poverty in the region

Partnering with local communities and other clubs in projects designed to improve health and education in the Solomon Islands

Helping local people to take-up trades and to provide them with basic tools.

Results over the past few years are encouraging.  The Club has learned from earlier endeavours and employs the skills and professions of members to the best possible effect.   It is gratifying to observe how islanders are becoming more self-reliant; hopefully the care and efforts of club members are contributing towards this.