February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter 1

District 73 | February 2020 Edition | District Director Sue Pederick | d73.toastmasters.org.au

Southern Cross Newsletter

Inside this Issue:

SUE PEDERICK DTM ........................................................................................ 2

VICKI TRAVERS DTM ....................................................................................... 5

KARL HUGHES DTM ........................................................................................ 8

PATHWAYS CORNER .................................................................................... 10

HAVE YOU REGISTERED FOR THE D73 ANNUAL CONFERENCE? .................. 11

MEET GREG VAN BORSSUM ......................................................................... 12

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: 2020 IN FOCUS ............................................................ 12

AREA DIRECTOR CLUB VISITS ....................................................................... 14

OPPORTUNITY TO HELP THE DISTRICT GROW ............................................. 15

**IMPORTANT** GUIDANCE FROM WORLD HEADQUARTERS ON MULTI-

CLUB MEETINGS ................................................................................ 15

MEET ELIZABETH MOURIK (AGAIN!) ............................................................. 17

EASTERN DIVISION CONTEST – SUCCESS ..................................................... 18

NORTHERN DIVISION CONTEST ROUND UP ................................................ 20

3 ESSENTIAL LIFE SKILLS ............................................................................... 21

EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS JANUARY 2020 CONGRATULATIONS TO: .. 22

SAVE THESE DATES ...................................................................................... 24

Greg Van Borssum – Keynote Speaker

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

SUE PEDERICK DTM

District Director

districtdirector@d73.toastmasters.org.au

What an incredible energy we have in the District so many interactions with many members with COT and Division contests in motion. Such a powerful time as we gather those who can assist with functions in our own clubs in future. Swap details and visit other clubs, there is a lot to gain from experience from others. Welcome to the 803 new members in our district congratulations on taking this step into a worldwide educational environment: https://www.toastmasters.org/about/all-about-toastmasters the toastmasters magazine is full of useful information for al. We are well on track in the District: Looking forward to seeing all the clubs recording their achievements in the Distinguished Club Program - Toastmasters International and receiving recognition for attending training.

South Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania, Australia (as of 2020-02-22)

District Goal (to be dist)

Actual to date

Year's goal

Needs more

Percent complete

Rank in world

Percentile in world

Rank in region

Paid Clubs 155 159 4 97.5% 48 60.8% 7

Mem Payments 3550 6602 3052 53.8% 78 35.8% 3

Dist. Clubs 0 63 63 0.0% 1 100.0% 1

Sources: D73 Reports Renewals are due; training and education is in progress and now Historic membership, the toastmasters alumni is there to assist with keeping prior members in contact with the organisation. As we move forward be proactive and if you are looking for anything happening in the District make use of our calendar, District Conference (15th-17th May ) and Changeover dinner 4th July. Facebook: Open and Closed We have 765 members on the closed D73 facebook page. We have so many more members in D73 it would be optimal time to join and see snippets of many activities occurring in D73 – have a quick look. We also have an open facebook page for the district, please utilise this resource to engage with the public prior to becoming members.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

District contact Many times I hear from new members ‘where do I find the contact details of those who are in leadership of the district’, all officers are found on the district 73 web site, if you have a question start with the direct contact with those involved: https://d73.toastmasters.org.au/officers/ Renewals due Email was sent from TI to all club officers on the 4th February indicating all renewals are now due, you have until the 30th March to complete: Renewal Dues FAQ. This is vital for those competitors to remain in good standing Training and Education We started the year with District trio training and have now had our District officer training on the 1st February. In process are Club officer training finishing the 29th February. We all need guidance and support for our roles learning to work with conflict and moving ahead with our teams. Please engage in this last opportunity for recognition and knowledge in February. Historic membership - Toastmasters Alumni On the 30th January an email went out from Toastmasters International to individuals with expired memberships from April 2017 to September 2018. This email can be viewed here: View Online.

‘Welcome to 2020 and the first instalment of the new decade’s bi-annual Toastmasters Alumni Newsletter. As you embark on new beginnings, consider inspiring others with your Toastmasters journey. Encourage co-workers, colleagues, friends, and family to start a new chapter with Toastmasters. Pass forward this newsletter, full of news and ideas, and pass forward the power of communication and leadership!’

Rotary partnership As many of you may be aware we have now begun a partnership with Rotary International. Please take some time to understand the goals around this new liaison, it is a win-win for both Toastmasters International and Rotary. More information can be accessed here and further details here regarding Rotary resources. Many of us are very busy with COT and Division contests at this time of the year support in engaging with these opportunities is very important. A lot of effort goes into these functions please keep this in mind when offering comments or advice. Not everyone is proficient in each task, it is all a learning environment for those involved and should be safe and supported, use this opportunity to mentor others. We all gain so much from these interactions. District Directors continue to be engaged It has been so encouraging to see many previous District Directors and leaders still engaged in supporting the District. The following nine District Directors: IPDD Liz Allwood; Past District Directors: Marlene Sinclair, Bruce Hill, Catherine McGillivray, Tracy Green, Anthony Murray, Christine Dimitros, Andris Bilkins and Judith Talonoa,(dating back to 2001), are exceptional individuals and have been at many recent events, thank you for continuing to support the District. Their names are noted in the D73 Toastmasters Hall of Fame page. District Leader forum- open to all Looking forward to seeing many of you at the District Leader forum on the 5th April at the South Melbourne Community Centre, details to follow, all Welcome. Registration will be open on the District calendar and advertised shortly.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

District conference The District 73 ‘Year in Focus’ Conference 15-17th May is another opportunity to celebrate and support the best of the best compete as speakers for the district title and potential ticket to Paris in August for the International convention. The conference is far more than contests, check out the web site to see all the District 73 conference has to offer. Time to give back Be kind to your fellow toastmasters, we are all here to support one another, you have the opportunity to grow, make great use of your time to embrace the Toastmasters program with a wealth of resources. Take note of those who work well in teams - these are your future leaders.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

VICKI TRAVERS DTM Program Quality Director pqd@d73toastmasters.org.au

On 1st February our District 73 leaders attended District Officer Training (DOT) at the Community Hub in Docklands. What a great day! We listened and learned from some awesome presenters who shared great ideas that we can implement to assist us to become more effective leaders. We also had the opportunity to interact and network with other leaders. Following on from our District Officer Training on Sunday, 2nd February we participated in a District Leadership Forum. Another informative day. Thanks to all presenters who made both days a great success. Save the Date - Our next Leadership Forum to be held on Sunday, 5th April. All members welcome. Full details for this event will be available shortly on the District 73 Calendar of events along with links for registration and agenda. Pathways If you are already enrolled in Pathways that’s awesome. Congratulations. If you are not already enrolled in Pathways please do so now. Speak with your VPE and organise to give your first or next project/speech. If you are not enrolled and engaged in Pathways and need help to have this happen please ask your VPE or another member in your club who can help you do this. We are also holding Pathways drop in Zoom sessions during March. These sessions will be for 1 hour in length. You can drop in anytime during that hour and get answers to any questions you might have and learn what you need to know to effectively work within Pathways. Dates and Details will be available on the District Calendar. DTM Award Congratulations to the following member who has achieved their DTM in January. Your hard work and determination is applauded. It is an exciting achievement. DTM Award recipients will be recognised at the DTM breakfast to be held at the District 73 Conference in May 15th to 17th in Adelaide. Subramaniam Ramasubramanian RMIT Club Metro Division Moments of Truth How healthy is your Club? With just over four months to go until the end of the 2020/2021 Toastmasters year there is still time for your club to become distinguished or greater. I recommend that every club presents the “Moments of Truth” module from The Successful Club Series at least once, if not twice, per year. This module gives the members an opportunity to look at how healthy their club is and see if there are any area/s they need to improve in. This module (Moments of Truth) can be accessed here.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

Distinguished Club Program (DCP) How is your club doing in the DCP? Whilst this program is about Club achievement it really comes down to the individual achievement of each member. As each member achieves their goals your club will become a distinguished club. Congratulations to the following clubs for their achievements within the DCP to date. Achieving Distinguished status or greater is dependent on clubs having 20 plus members or an increase of 5 members from your club base membership. Please note the membership numbers will be counted as at 30th June, 2020 for the 2020/2021 Toastmaster year.

Division Club Name Distinguished Presidents

Distinguished Select

Distinguished

B1 Cranbourne Toastmasters Club 8

B2 Frankston Toastmasters Club 7

B3 East Gippsland Club 7

B4 Bayside Toastmasters Club 7

C6 Adelaide City 9

DWS Adelaide Toastmasters Club 8

C9 Southern Cross Toastmasters 6

C10 Rev-Anew 5

E15 Kew Toastmasters Club 6

Manningham Toastmasters 5

E16 Glen Iris Toastmasters Club 7

E17 Diamond Valley Toastmasters Club

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I46 505 Speakers Corner Toastmasters Club

5

I47 Telstra Exhibition Toastmasters 5

Happy Hour Toastmasters Club 7

I49 Serviantes Toastmasters Club 7

M20 Hobart Toastmasters Club 7

Eastern Shore Toastmasters 6

Spirit of Devonport 5

M22 Melbourne University Toastmasters

8

Carlton Toastmasters Club 9

Parkville Toastmasters Club 6

Fitzroy Toastmasters Club 6

M23 Williamstown Club 6

Port Melbourne Toastmasters 6

M24 RMIT Club 6

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

N28 Essendon Toastmasters Club 6

N29 Albury Wodonga Toastmasters 5

Indigo Speakers 5

N31 City of Greater Geelong Toastmasters Club

7

R34 Whitehorse Club 5

Ringwood Toastmasters Club 8

Dandenong Ranges Club 7

R35 Lilydale Toastmasters Club 8

Wandin Toastmasters Club 5

R36 Knox Toastmasters Club 8

Rowville Toastmasters 9

Rafters Toastmasters Club 9

R37 Glen Waverley Club 7

Dandenong-Mulgrave Toastmasters Club

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S39 City Centre Toastmasters Club 6

Mighty Docklands 5

S42 Toorak Toastmasters 6

Club Officer Training (COT) There have been some awesome COT sessions held throughout the District. Thank you to all Division Directors for organising and facilitating these events. We want every Club Officer to be trained. If you haven’t attended a COT session there is still time. You can attend a COT session held for any Division. The following COT sessions will be coming up during the next couple of weeks and are the final sessions being held during the second round: Friday, 21st February - Central Division Saturday, 22nd February - Metro (Melb) Division Tuesday, 25th February - Southern Division Saturday, 29th February - Bass Division Full details are available on the District 73 Calendar of Events.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

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It’s that time of year when many D73 Toastmasters clubs are starting up again after the Christmas and New Year break. Hopefully, you are rearing to go and wanting to get back into giving speeches and facing those unknown Table Topics questions. Recently, I attended the first meeting of the New Year at my home club, Rowville Toastmasters. It was good to get back into the swing of things after the break and just as exciting was having seven guests turn-up on the night. Membership Strength Having been back in the club environment and seeing guests come through the door, reminded me about the importance of focussing on making sure that our meetings are of a quality that we expect in Toastmasters. The district is currently performing very well having achieved our February membership target for being a Distinguished District. We have also increased the number of clubs that are at charter strength. I thank everyone who has contributed to these results. Club Growth We are also doing well with new clubs having chartered seven so far this year. There are three more Launch Meetings scheduled over the next three weeks and we are in talks with another two solid prospects about moving to the Launch Meeting Stage. Check-out the D73 Facebook page for sponsor and mentor opportunities as they arise. Area Director Club Visit Reports The second round of Area Director Club Visits has started. Club Visit Reports are due to Toastmasters International by 31 May 2020. The report template can be found at the TMI site, under Resources Please book-in a date with your Area Director for the visit as soon as possible. The sooner the visits take place, the sooner you have feedback and ideas to work on to improve your club and member experience. And don’t forget to follow-up on the actions suggested in the first round Club Visit Report. How You Can Help While the district is tracking healthily, we need to make sure we continue to grow our membership base and provide a friendly and results-driven meeting environment for our members. This will also showcase Toastmasters to guests in the best possible light. Here are some things you can do to increase membership and run a quality club meeting:

Make sure you attend meetings regularly. You are an important part of your club. When you

are not there, you are missed.

Be part of the Talk-Up Toastmasters membership drive that is taking place during February –

March 2020. If you get into a conversation with someone on the tram, train, or taking a break at

work, why not talk about Toastmasters and see if you can get them to visit a club. More

information on Toastmasters membership building programs can be found here.

KARL HUGHES DTM Club Growth Director cgd@d73.toastmasters.org.au

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

Conduct a Moments of Truth exercise with your club. This will help identify what the club is

doing well and where some improvement may be needed. The Moments of Truth handout is

easily accessible at the TMI site (again under Resources tab).

If you are a club officer, make sure you register and attend Club Officer Training. You will learn

how to make your club a quality club. You can find more information on how to create a quality

club at TMI Club Quality page.

Work with your Area Director during their second round of club visits. They are there to help

your club reach its full potential. Discuss with your Club Executive Team the actions they have

suggested and action these suggestions where appropriate.

Remember being part of a quality club means that many people benefit – Toastmasters International, the district, your club, and most importantly, the members of your club, and of course, you! Let’s keep on track and work together to make sure the second half of the year is a great one.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

PATHWAYS CORNER Drop in Sessions

D73 Team Pathways are happy to assist

members understand Pathways, Base Camp better and to get on board before the end of

June 2020. This season we begin with a series of drop-in Zoom sessions in March. If you have questions or concerns about your club reaching the target of 100% registration for Pathways, these will help. We offer advice on how to:

help the individual members take their first steps online

help them choose a relevant Path

help you in tracking member progress (in Base Camp for BCMs) and in Club Central

help your advanced Toastmasters lead the way (Pathways Mentor Program)

help members to download their projects and evaluations in print format

March Dates/Times:

Thursday 5 March 7:30 pm Tuesday 10 March 7:30 pm Saturday 21 March 10:30 am Wednesday 25 March 7:30 pm Join us at: https://zoom.us/j/5333799282 Register in the D73 Calendar of Events for one or more of these and invite your club members. We look forward to seeing you in Zoom. (Note you can access the Zoom app from your SmartPhone, laptop or tablet. Want to know how, see our online education tips.

Carole McCulloch DTM

Area N29 Director D73 Pathways Co-ordinator

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

HAVE YOU REGISTERED FOR THE D73 ANNUAL CONFERENCE?

2020 Your Future in Focus

D73 Conference Registration Adelaide, 15 to 17 May 2020

Earlybird Registrations

are still open but who knows when they will sell out so act now to secure your ticket at this low price!

Special accommodation rates are now available for conference attendees. Please visit the "Accommodation" tab on the conference website for details on how to

secure these special rates or see details below.

Please use the following link for your 2020 bookings: Toastmasters Conference 15-17 May 2020

1. Please type in the destination field ‘Pullman Adelaide’ in order to get your

corporate rates.

2. Then select your dates and press search.

3. Should you be asked for your client Business Identification:

1. SCP1750392 2. DI236AU821

Anna Weissmann District Conference Chair

February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter 12

MEET GREG VAN BORSSUM KEYNOTE SPEAKER: 2020 IN FOCUS

Have you booked your ticket to the District 73 Conference in Adelaide from 15th to 17th May, 2020? You won’t regret the decision to go. District Conference has so much to offer – Workshops, Master Classes, Networking, Speech Contests, Recognition of our Member’s achievements including the DTM Breakfast, the District Council Meeting where elections are held for our new leaders for the 2020/2021 Toastmasters year AND a fabulous Key Note speaker…Greg Van Borssum.

Hear Australia's first Toastmasters International Accredited Speaker at the District 73 Annual Conference 2020. Greg Van Borssum will be giving a keynote and workshops throughout the conference! Once a failed school kid, growing up in a neighbourhood nicknamed “Criminal Hill”, Greg Van Borssum has used strength, determination and goal-setting to focus on his future in several disciplines. Trained in martial arts, he used his skills with actors on the set of Mad Max: Fury Road, designing all the fight sequences and gunfighting scenes. He has also worked on the production of Happy Feet the movie. At 20, he won the heavyweight and overall Australian National

Bodybuilding Championships, and from there, went on to

represent Australia in the Mr. Universe competition in Italy. He

placed sixth out of 120 competitors.

Overcoming his own personal challenges led

him to work with suicide prevention. He is

currently an ambassador for Lifeline, Suicide

Prevention Australia and Mates in

Construction.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

Greg Van Borssum became the first and only

Australian Accredited Speaker during a

ceremony conducted by Toastmasters

International in Denver in August 2019.

He was honoured for his work as a youth

mental health speaker and service advocate

through his suicide prevention charity and

motivational speaking business, Mind Warriors

Foundation.

Excerpts from Watching Greg van Borssum - Toastmasters International Magazine - article by Caren Schnur Neile, Ph.D., ATMS, CL Read the full article here in the Toastmasters magazine.

Through focusing on his future, Greg Van Borssum has reached remarkable levels of

achievement. “I want to spread my story to help people overcome obstacles and grow like I did.

I want to help them crush their fears, own them and rewire them into fuel for success.”

February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter 14

AREA DIRECTOR CLUB VISITS

The second round period of Area Director Club Visits is now underway. The second round of club visits takes place from January until the end of May 2020. The report template can be found under the Resources tab on TMI. Club visits are a great opportunity to help clubs be the best they can be. They are also a chance to observe and educate on brand excellence – all the Toastmasters processes and activities that if done well, contribute to a quality club and a quality member experience. The earlier the visits are done, the better it is for the clubs. The sooner they can get constructive feedback on how they can improve, the quicker the clubs can start taking appropriate steps. This means the member can gain the benefits from an improved club earlier rather than later, which will help them greatly on their Toastmasters journey. If you are an Area Director now is the time to be booking-in with your clubs for a visit. Let’s make sure that our members are part of quality clubs that strive for brand excellence, and that District 73 has a strong foundation built on quality.

Karl Hughes DTM Club Growth Director

And so it begins… TALK UP TOASTMASTERS

PROGRAM

1 February to 31 March 2020

‘Talk-Up Toastmasters’ membership building program is currently underway. The promotion takes place from 1 February until the 31 March.

Information on the program can be found here.

This is a chance for club members to talk about Toastmasters and raise awareness in the community. Then invite guests to a club meeting where prospective members can learn about Toastmasters' many benefits.

How it works:

If a club adds five new, dual or reinstated members with a join date between February 1 and March 31, you’ll receive a special "Talk-Up Toastmasters" ribbon to display on your club’s banner (the addition of transfer and charter members does not count towards “Talk-Up Toastmasters” credit). Qualifying clubs can also earn a special discount code for 10% off their next club order with Toastmasters International.

Make sure you get your applications and payments for members in at World Headquarters or online no later than March 31 to qualify.

So let’s get talking and share what you are doing on the District’s Facebook page.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

OPPORTUNITY TO HELP THE DISTRICT GROW A fabulous opportunity has come up to help support your fellow members and the district.

District 73 is performing really well with a lot of excitement about the future. To keep the momentum going we need someone to help support the coordination of the Coaching Program. This role helps identify and match clubs who would like a coach with members who want to become a club coach.

If you want to make a positive difference and are interested in being part of a dynamic team,

send me an email at cgd@d73.toastmasters.org.au.

Karl Hughes Club Growth Director

**IMPORTANT** GUIDANCE FROM WORLD HEADQUARTERS ON

MULTI-CLUB MEETINGS Clubs sometimes conduct special meetings called ‘Speech-a-thons’ or ‘Speech Marathons’ that are solely devoted to project speeches. Some clubs may also want to have a meeting that combine clubs to create a larger meeting or ‘Mega Meeting’. Education Services from World Headquarters at Toastmasters International has provided guidance with such meetings. The information received states clubs cannot hold joint meetings with the intent to allow other clubs to participate, nor can a club host a Speak-a-thon in collaboration with other clubs. Speech-a-thons combining clubs and combined clubs holding standard meeting formats are not considered a valid Toastmasters meeting and members cannot earn credit for their educational projects in such meetings However, individual members can visit other clubs to give a speech as a guest. Information about Speech-a-thons can be found on page 27, Special Meeting for Prepared Speeches, in the Club Leadership Handbook. The manual is easily accessible at the TMI site, under Resources. Please be aware of this when planning your club meeting and education schedule.

Karl Hughes Club Growth Director

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

REGISTER NOW - YARRA VALLEY MYSTERY TOUR

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

MEET ELIZABETH MOURIK (AGAIN!) We cannot be more proud if we tried – Elizabeth Mourik was appointed Order of Australia acknowledging her community work over the years. For those who missed it, her story of courage and resilience featured in the December 2019 Southern Cross newsletter (p8). Needless to say, Area N29 is bursting at the seams for this member is simply amazing and we love her. Obviously her name was mentioned at this year’s Australia Day Honours List and made newspaper and facebook feed entry including ABC fb page -snippet below:

February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter 18

EASTERN DIVISION CONTEST – SUCCESS

The Eastern Division Contest held its contest on Saturday 15 February 2020. It was held at the Austin Hospital and it was great to see so many talented members from Eastern Division represent their clubs. The event was a success. The Trio Sue Pederick, District Director, Sue Travers, Quality Program Director and Karl Hughes, Club Growth Director attended the successful event. Area Directors Emmi Godau, E17 Area Director, Hubert Lobo, E14 Area Director, Peter Merange, E16 Area Director and the E15 Acting Area Director represented by myself were also present. Undertaking a leadership role in Toastmasters is a great way to develop and fine tune leadership skills as well as connect with members from other Clubs. Success through leadership, networking and communication are important skills one can develop. It is also great to see the Club Members doing so well and gaining in strength, character and confidence. Thank you to all the Contest Chairs on the day. They did a fantastic job. The Contest Chairs were: Stephen Lakey (Glen Iris TM), International Speech Contest Elizabeth Allwood (Immediate Past District Director), Evaluation Contest Christine Dimitros (Past District Director 2017-2018), Table Topics David Martin (Hawthorn, Toast of the Country Club, Flinders Lane TM), Humorous Speech Contest. Test speaker: Our Test Speaker was Victor Tan from Port Melbourne Toastmasters. He

was able to connect easily with the audience and share his story. To speak at this level is an incredible feat. It takes hours of preparation and rehearsal to win at this level. One must ponder what makes a great speaker. The following are great attributes and character traits to have to perform at this level. 1. Passion and purpose. 2. Personality, creativity and being able to

connect with the audience. 3. Not be afraid to fail and not be afraid of

hard work.

To think how far some of these contestants have come on their Toastmasters Journey is great. I have seen members grow in confidence and speaking ability. Eastern Division is a wonderful area to look after as the Eastern Division Director 2019/2020 The winners were: International Speech Contest – Andrew Kneebone Evaluation Contest – Ashley Coleman-Bock Table Topics – Sandra Glass Humorous Contest – Chris Hadjiantonakis A big thank you to all that assisted on the day and to all the winners. The winners will now represent Eastern Division at the District Contest to be held in Adelaide from 15 to 17 May 2020. See photos on next page.

Sina Marasco DTM Eastern Division Director

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

Eastern Division Contest – Success (cont’d)

A successful evening for Eastern Division – winners below!

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

NORTHERN DIVISION CONTEST ROUND UP

Northern Lights – Shine Bright

We may live in the Southern hemisphere – yet all the contestants are in fact our “Northern Lights”

A spectacular start to the D73 contest round. Sunday 9 February at the Bendigo Neighbourhood Hub, Strathdale.

The Northern Division Contest was the focus of a glorious day for many. Division members and friends travelled from as far as Albury to Colac as the Northern Division covers approx. and 466km separating the members of our group.

Even with the devastation of the recent bush fires our members resilience, commitment and positivity shines bright.

We were privileged and delighted to have the support, skill and expertise of two of our esteemed Trio. Sue Pederick, District Director and Vicki Travers Program Quality Director, who travelled from Adelaide and Devonport respectively.

Backing up the Dynamic Duo was Danielle Resnick-Jones the District Public Relations Manager.

I was blessed to the have the help and support of many members in and out of the Division.

There are far too many to thank individually, however special recognition to our test speaker Sue Webley from Geelong Toastmasters, delighting everyone with her storytelling ability, and mastery of the Chinese language.

Our Contest Chairs also need a special mention:

- Carole McCulloch, N29 Area Director – Evaluation Contest

- Clare Mehtonen – Immediate Past Northern Division Director – Humorous Contest

- Greg Bowlen, N31 Are Director – Table Topics Contest

- Myself – International Contest

Results in order (1st, 2nd, 3rd):

- Evaluation Contest Chris Smith, Clare Bunworth, Thuy Hoang

- Humorous Contest Leslie Norton, Michael Landry, David Coop

- Table Topics Contest Mandy Cooke, Chris Smith, Michael Landry

- International Contest Chris Smith, Stephen Cate, Julie Wacker

Thank you to everyone for making this event, the highlight in the Northern Calendar

I am extremely proud of all the contestants, helpers, judges and everyone for their support and kindness.

Debbie Horoba DTM Northern Division Director

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

3 ESSENTIAL LIFE SKILLS Three essential skills I wish I had learnt at school. EVA. Effective communication, Value of evaluation and Action planning. Yes. I wish I had learnt these skills a lot sooner. Without effective communication it can be difficult achieving the results you want out of life. I highly recommend teaching these skills to children. My parents were immigrants from Italy. They migrated to Melbourne, Australia in January 1967. It wasn’t easy not being able to speak English but they managed. My mother was a housewife and my dad suffered from a severe head injury which left him with depression. He was no longer fit for work. This reduced the household income. At that time, my parents didn’t see the benefits in learning English as they didn’t ‘need it’. The world has changed since the 1960s. We no longer want to be reactive to what life throws at us. We want to be proactive; confident in our ability to communicate and get our message across. I couldn’t be more different to my parents. I have learnt so many skills and continue to enjoy being a lifelong student. I joined Toastmasters International in October 2013 and I haven’t looked back since. I have also learnt the true value of being an effective communicator and evaluator and then taking the next action steps to make my goals and dreams a reality. Effective planning and taking the next action steps leads to better results and optimum success.

I truly believe these are essential life skills and should be taught in our schools and within our communities. Words have power. I see so many people taken advantage of because they don’t know the power of effective communication. To actually think through the results of their words. To actually guide the conversation rather than reacting to it and ‘losing out’. There would be much better outcomes through the power of effective communication, evaluation and action planning. Young people and everyone could make better decisions. Tears and tragedy could be averted with some foresight.

Sina Marasco DTM Eastern Division Director

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS JANUARY 2020

CONGRATULATIONS TO: AWARD MEMBER CLUB Distinguished Toastmaster Jack, Elinor Maree Ringwood Toastmasters Club

Adv Leader Silver Mudge, Natalie Jill Northern Stars Toastmasters Club

Adv Leader Silver Hancock, Bridh Aero Speakers Toastmasters

Adv Leader Bronze Hancock, Bridh Aero Speakers Toastmasters

Pathways Mentor Program Sinclair, Marlene C. Croydon - Yarra Valley Toastmasters

Visionary Communication (1) lucas, jan East Gippsland Club

Competent Communicator Dohnalek, Alan Jiri Tea Tree Gully Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (4) Brown, Malcom W Dandenong Ranges Club

Adv Communicator Silver Hancock, Anne Catherine Dolores

Aero Speakers Toastmasters

Competent Communicator Stockley, Derek Croydon - Yarra Valley Toastmasters

Presentation Mastery (3) Copland, Peter John Adelaide Central

Presentation Mastery (2) Copland, Peter John Adelaide Central

Innovative Planning (1) Wyllie, Andy DWS Adelaide Toastmasters Club

Dynamic Leadership (4) Ranieri, Sam Mario DWS Adelaide Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (1) Caputo, Francesco 505 Speakers Corner Toastmasters Club

Persuasive Influence (2) Lyons, Rebecca J. Hobart Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) Sheppard, Steven North Melbourne

Competent Communicator Sriharsha, Uma Devi Spirit Of Devonport

Competent Leadership Quilliam, Edwin E. Hobart Toastmasters Club

Adv Communicator Gold Skegg, Karina M. Hobart Toastmasters Club

Motivational Strategies (1) 01666218 - Name Unavail Hobart Toastmasters Club

Effective Coaching (1) Stokes, Danielle Hobart Toastmasters Club

Effective Coaching (3) Curiel, Alberto Payneham Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (3) Al-Talla, Suleiman Abdullah Hume Toastmasters Club

Adv Communicator Gold Jack, Elinor Maree Lilydale Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) Jerin, Kathy Lilydale Toastmasters Club

Effective Coaching (3) Barton, Nicholas Payneham Toastmasters Club

Engaging Humor (2) Cesco, Peter Colin Aldinga Toastmasters Club

Engaging Humor (1) Cesco, Peter Colin Aldinga Toastmasters Club

Leadership Development (3) Barbonio, Christina City of Greater Geelong Toastmasters Club

Competent Communicator Magnano, Alf Williamstown Club

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

Competent Leadership Kumara, Janaka Rafters Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (2) Do, Alison North Adelaide Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (1) Do, Alison North Adelaide Toastmasters Club

Distinguished Toastmaster Haynes, John H. Carlton Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (2) Patel, Shraddha Servianites Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) Wang, Calvin Servianites Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (5) Mahesan, Shiranee Rafters Toastmasters Club

Adv Leader Silver Haynes, John H. Speaking of Sustainability

Presentation Mastery (3) Kaftan, Steven Tea Tree Gully Toastmasters Club

Leadership Development (1) Pandey, Shivesh Whitehorse Club

Leadership Development (5) Broughton, Kevin Richard Sale Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (1) Black, Linda Rafters Toastmasters Club

Visionary Communication (1) 07189590 - Name Unavail Rafters Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) 07497113 - Name Unavail Rafters Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) Akbari, Shabir Rafters Toastmasters Club

Adv Leader Silver Guillaume, Laura Nathalie Rafters Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (1) Tuck, Ricky James Melton Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) Hartwell, Damien Jeffrey Payneham Toastmasters Club

Motivational Strategies (2) Leigh, Gary Reginald Kew Toastmasters Club

Visionary Communication (2) Mcdonald, Noel Raymond Kew Toastmasters Club

Innovative Planning (1) 06950595 - Name Unavail Kew Toastmasters Club

Persuasive Influence (3) Donahoo, David Ringwood Toastmasters Club

Presentation Mastery (3) Suraweera, Pramudi Whitehorse Club

Leadership Development (1) Fisher, Cameron Stewart Whitehorse Club

Competent Leadership Sutton, Adam UniSA Toastmasters Club

Competent Communicator Sutton, Adam UniSA Toastmasters Club

NEWSLETTER DEADLINES:

If you’d like to submit an article about your club, Area or Division or would like to start a conversation anything relating to our Toastmasters experience, please email me Mirella James. Your article must be submitted by the last week of the month. Issue goes out third week of the month. Thank you to all of our February contributors.

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter

SAVE THESE DATES

Save these District dates (registration links where appropriate will be on the D73 calendar)

Toastmasters of D73

1 November – 29 February Division Director led Club officer training round 1: (minimum of 4 club officers required)

5 April 2020 (TBC- save the date) District Leader Forum

15- 17 May 2020 ***** DISTRICT 73 CONFERENCE – ADELAIDE ******

16 May 2020

District Council Meeting (in person) @ D73 Conference, Adelaide (District Committee and Presidents and VPE’s- proxies can be assigned to eligible voting attendees) - all welcome

5- 8 August 2020

International Toastmasters Convention, Paris, France

(Proxies assigned to District director- voting delegates:

District Director, club presidents and secretaries) Events

- Toastmasters International

Area and Division Director Training:

4 April 2020 District Executive Committee meeting (in person) Melbourne

Division Contest Dates:

Division 2020 Dates

Bass Division: Fourth Saturday in March (28th March 2020)

Central Division: Third Saturday in March (21st March 2020)

Inner City Division: First Saturday in March (7th March 2020)

now 14th March due to public holiday

Metro Division: First Sunday in March (1st March 2020)

Ranges Division: Fourth Sunday in March (22nd March 2020)

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February 2020 | Southern Cross Newsletter