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Chairman’s Report opportunity. The Board unanimously supported Greg for Life Membership. It has been a pleasure working with you Greg - congratulations. Board Appointments The Board welcomed new directors Lorraine Coffey, John Campbell, Don Ripper, DGE Representative Pat Schraven and DGN Representative Amanda Wendt.
Retiring Chairman Greg Ross completed his vibrant three year term at the last AGM, which for the first time, was conducted via zoom. During the past year the pandemic has had a significant effect on all our lives with lockdowns, restrictions on gatherings and travel, all of which have severely limited Rotary club activities. Despite these difficulties, ARH was able to continue all existing research projects with only minor interruptions. It was however decided not to award the usual number of research grants this year. During the year the Board adopted a number of new initiatives. These included a major review of the ARH Business Plan, a decision to focus research on the 0-12 year age group and to conduct a Symposium early next year to launch this new area of research. Other developments have included planning for the 40th Anniversary of ARH and the establishment of a national committee to assist in promoting Lift the Lid Walks. Life Membership Retiring Chairman Greg Ross served on the Board for seven years, the last three as Chairman. Greg introduced ‘Lift the Lid on Mental Illness’ which was adopted by the Board and is now widely used in ARH promotion. A gifted speaker and entertainer, Greg used his talents to publicise ARH at every
Leaving the Board at this AGM will be Jane Cox and Mark Lean. Jane has served for five years and Mark four, both have given outstanding service to ARH and I thank them sincerely for their involvement and friendship. Also leaving the Board at the end of his term was DG representative David Jones, thank you David, your contribution has been much appreciated. ARH 40th Anniversary This year is an important one in the history of Australian Rotary Health as we celebrate forty years of ARH achievement. It was back in 1981 that Ian Scott, a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Mornington, became concerned that SIDS was causing the tragic death of approximately 500 babies each year. After hearing Professor Williams speak about the urgent need for research into this problem, Ian suggested to his Rotary
club that a fund be established to support medical research in Australia. His concept not only reduced the incidence of SIDS by 80% but went on to establish a great Rotary Project that supports a wide range of medical research. It has become one of the largest non-government funders of mental health research in Australia. Celebratory dinners are deferred for the coming year when it is expected a large number of Rotarians and supporters will gather to mark this important occasion. Change of Research Focus After careful consideration the Board decided that the next round of Mental Health Grants would focus on the 0 -12 age group. Medical advice has indicated that 50% of those who develop mental illness as adults show symptoms by the age of 14. We are advised that by giving attention to this younger age group, it may be possible to reduce the incidence of mental illness in later life. Symposium To launch the new research program a Symposium is planned for late March 2022, this will be the eleventh Symposium ARH has conducted. It will be held in Sydney and bring together approximately 30 eminent clinicians and researchers who
CEO Joy, outgoing Chairman and Life Member Greg with new Chairman Kevin.
