Punching Above Our Weight

Graeme opened the meeting with a warm welcome to everyone especially our guest Peter Crofskey.

Graeme and his Gavel

Following from words from our General Evaluator (Netta) and her assistants Duncan who shared his word of the night – Bevy, and Colin who did our time keeping duties admirably, Amy introduced Table Topics.

Amy asked participants to take on the role of advisers for readers/listeners who had issues they needed help with. A very original topic that had our speakers advising on how to deal with a difficult child, an ailing mother, bullying, amnesia and even killer cats! Emma and James did a sterling job evaluating Table Topics including much humour and sincere comments. Once again we saw Amy, James and Emma and the ‘counsellors’, punching above their weight to deliver a very entertaining Table Topic session.

Kate - Providing Advice for Dealing with a Difficult Child

Peter - How to Deal to a Troublesome Cat

It was a little disappointing to have only one speaker on the agenda, however our speaker and her speech were far from disappointing. Ian introduced Christine who spoke on “Our proud History – New Zealanders punching above their weight”. Christine used a flip chart to identify many Toastmasters from NZ who have excelled in the art of speaking to gain awards to the highest level in the world. Christine also mentioned members of our club and local clubs who have punched above their weight to do extremely well at competitions. Ian gave Christine a very honest and valuable evaluation.

Ian - Introducing Christine

Christine - Excelling in Toastmasters

An educational from Chris informed us of the challenges and awards we are able to strive for in Toastmasters. The use of technology made Chris’s presentation very easy to follow and hopefully our members will all strive to achieve something beyond being a competent communicator and leader. The explanations Chris gave us made it less challenging to complete manuals and the simplicity of gaining further awards to becoming a DTM – Distinguished Toastmaster. Thanks for the challenge Chris.

Peter Croskery presented Ian Wright with the engraved trophy he won at Division D Evaluation competition earlier in the year – once again one of our members doing what Christine spoke about – punching above his weight.

Our awards night will be held on 1st August at Indigo restaurant. Chris will get invitations out soon, so keep this date free.

Grammarian Duncan reported on the use of his word ‘bevy’ that was used several times, and ‘umm’ was detected several times also throughout the night. Colin gave a comprehensive report on the timing of the night’s procedures and Netta gave commendations and recommendations to those among us that did not have an evaluator designated.

Graeme closed the meeting after awarding:

• Best Speaker to Christine
• Best Evaluator to Ian. 
• Our visitor Peter took home the Best Table Topic award – he told us how to deal with a killer cat!

Netta