From the President
Meeting 3307 was well attended, with guests Meredith Smith, Honorary Member John Dawkins, DGE 9510 Damian Leach, and PDG 9790 Emma Davis joining us to hear local photographer—and supporter of our club—Mark Willoughby speak about the future of photography and offer insights into the Bunyip newspaper.
Mark took us behind the lens, sharing stories from his career in photography, including his early days working with a newspaper in Whyalla before eventually joining Gawler's own newspaper, The Bunyip.
He gave us a fascinating look at how much photography and newspaper production have changed over the years—from when taking and publishing a photo could be a lengthy process, to today’s technology where cameras at sporting events can connect directly to laptops and transmit images almost instantly.
Mark also demonstrated some of the modern tools now used in the industry, such as facial recognition technology, which can help identify people and speed up the captioning process. It is a remarkable contrast to the traditional workflow—a clear example of how technology continues to reshape journalism.
He told us about some of his favourite events he’s covered, including the unforgettable experience of photographing the Ashes Test while sitting in front of the Barmy Army—a personal challenge he had set himself.
Mark also shared the photograph he is most proud of, taken for Dalkeith CFS. Although an unfortunate mix-up meant it didn’t win, he was told that under different circumstances, the image would have been a contender for Photo of the Year.
A huge thank you to Mark for an entertaining and insightful evening, and for giving us a glimpse into the rapidly changing world of professional photography.
The club also congratulated Mark Forgie on being the recipient of the Funerals Australia Distinguished Service Award, presented by the SA/NT Division at their recent AGM. At Rotary, Mark never draws attention to himself, but does so much behind the scenes that he thinks it goes unnoticed. It was wonderful to be able to acknowledge his efforts and share this recognition with members—congratulations, Mark!
As I write this, our members are currently out for the second day, working alongside the Rotary Club of Gawler Light and the Gawler Girl Guides, helping to manage two car parks for the Gawler Show. I completed a shift yesterday morning and, although it was busy, it was wonderful to be outside in the sunshine. Not only were we raising funds to support our contributions to the community, but we also demonstrated the importance of collaborating with other groups. Overall, members of the public were patient and polite, even when we were busy and doing our best to find extra parking spaces for them.
Next week, members are reminded that we cannot meet at Nixon’s; instead, we will gather at the Salvation Army in Gawler. It promises to be a fun night of games and trivia, so dust off your trivia knowledge and be prepared to be challenged in many ways!
Please keep an eye out for the attendance email, which will still be sent out. There will be a set menu of chicken and chips as decided by members last week, but it is important to indicate if you are attending and/or eating so Kathy can order the correct amount.
Reminder
From this week when we meet at NIxon's members and guests are required to pay Nixon's directly for their meal. This must be done by card prior to 6:30. Bob and Geoff will still look forward to seeing you at the attendance table to purchase your washers by cash or card and also to select your table number.
Have you bought your tickets yet??
Remember you can help the club by supporting us in the current People First Lottery. Below you will find the flyer with our unique QR code. Please follow this link to buy tickets remembering that every $2 ticket you buy and nominate the Rotary Club of Gawler we receive the full $2. There are some great prizes so jump online and grab some while you are thinking about it! (tickets are only available online and with a debit card).
Yours in Rotary Angela Moore
President RCG 2026-27
