On Monday the 11th August in front of a record attendance of two hundred and twenty Interactors, sponsor club Interact advisors and teacher coordinators, this year's Interact Conference was successfully held at Balwyn High school in North Balwyn. DG Peter Shepheard who formally opened the Conference was busy snapping photos during the day. The program included three Guest speakers from Youth Mental Health support team at Headspace, current Rotaractors describing the pathway to Rotaract, and also a representative of UNHCR ( Aust) about support for refugees.
The multi District Humanitarian project for all Interact clubs in both Districts chosen at last year Interact District Assembly/training day in December was fundraising for UNHCR and once projects are complete, profits will be directed to UNHCR.
There were also a series of break out sessions held, providing opportunities for students from all clubs to mix, learn from each other and develop strategies for future projects. It was great to see students from various schools making connections .
Each club presented to the forum showcasing the activities undertaken throughout the year.
Mac Rob Interact Board supporting the conference.
It was noteworthy that other than some guidance from me, the entire Conference was planned and run by a Work group of five Interactors from various clubs ably led by Intearct District Council Chair Simar who proved once again that she is a future leader, MCing the day with her usual quiet and assured confidence .
Her support team included Harris and Shauri from District 9815, Sophia from Albert Park Secondary College and Neha and Alina from Balwyn High.
Rehana Ziyad (Mac Rob representative addressing the forum with Des O'Shanassy and Joan (9800 District Interact Co-ordinator Chair and Secretary)
It is noteworthy that our two Executive leaders of the IDC this year are both Interactors with less than one years experience, proving that if we identify the right people , notwithstanding their level of experience they can assume leadership roles, if they are willing to learn on the job. Both Simar from Tarneit Senior College and Sophia, her secretary from Balwyn High have provided wonderful support in guiding the Interact Council.
We have our once per term District Interact Committee meeting on Friday evening and Jane and I will be happy to take any questions about the Conference. The next Multi District Council meeting will be held in early September ( awaiting date from Simar). Following the Conference, there has been renewed interest from District 9815 Intearct clubs and several are expected to join us for that meeting. Please note that only Interact Chairs or deputies may join these meetings, which are entirely run by Intearctors . We are merely observers and respond to any questions.
Des O'Shanessy