Merril Gillman returned from her home in Australia to give members a talk on her course at Brisbane University, and her work experiences as a qualified social worker in Queensland.

Eight years ago when she was our youth exchange student, the Rotary Club hosted and supported her for the one year she was in the Stourbridge area. She now plans to stay and gain more experience working in the North Worcestershire area.

Sue Jubb, a teacher at Hagley Primary School, told members about the ‘Life Education Caravan’.

This project was a Rotary initiative started in North Worcestershire about 10 years ago, providing a mobile exhibition which is parked in school playgrounds for a day or two and the specialist teacher, using very interesting exhibits, explains to the children the effects and dangers of taking drugs, smoking and drinking alcohol.

The club contributes round £900 each year for the cost of this very important service.

Sue Hyne also gave members an illustrated talk about the many and varied activities of the Hagley Guides. The Rotary Club has donated over £3,000 during the last two years to help refurbish the building which they share with the Scouts and Brownies.

For more information on Rotary, call David Dewhirst on 07966 116612.