Newmarket Rotary is an active club of dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. We focus on a wide range areas where we can make a difference, including helping those in need, giving young people amazing opportunities for development, and improving the health of our environment. We welcome anyone who wants to come along and help and have some fun at the same time.
Programs that we are involved with are:
Bryan Leyland
Brayn spoke to us on Tuesday about NZ's electricity system and the energy crisis that we face.
He ran through the situation we presently face highlighting low hydro lake levels and potential blackouts.
He made the point that reducing our carbon dioxide emissions will not make any significant difference in the fight against climate change. In particular, we are fighting a losing battle against carbon dioxide emissions from countries like China and the USA.
Bryan then addressed NZ's role in reducing carbon emissions, despite challenges. He doubts New Zealand's ability to lead the world in reducing carbon emissions especially given our size.
Bryan spoke about renewable energy, electric cars, and carbon emissions. He highlighted the need for energy storage to address intermittency in renewable energy sources. He argued that renewable energy sources like pumped hydro wind and solar are expensive and inefficient.
Bryan suggested the Government needs to act to address power shortages, with options including more hydropower, geothermal, and nuclear power. He pointed out flaws flaws in NZ's electricity market, including lack of long-term investment incentives, The limitations of renewable energy and the potential for economic damage. we are potentially doomed due to expensive electricity and reliance on fossil fuels.
On other matters, Bryan commented on Climate change evidence and consensus vs. scientific evidence. He questioned the scientific evidence for man-made global warming, citing lack of real-world data. In this part of his address Bryan noted that climate change happens, we are coming out of a little ice age that occurred in the 1800s. He drew our attention to carbon dioxide levels, and weather patterns. 570 million years ago, CO2 levels were 1500 parts per million, four times current levels.
Bryan pointed out that the current levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are enabling expansion of green areas in places like the Sahara. More ominously he noted that CO2 levels are only just above the minimum needed to sustain life on the planet - Something that is not spoken about.
Bryan's address sparked a lively question and answer session which was a tribute to its quality
Rotary Apprenticeship Program - Chrissi Bollard
Chrissi spoke to us about her involvement in the Trade Academy at One Tree Hill College, emphasizing the importance of working with decile one to decile five schools.
The mentoring program, which Chrissi is a part, helps young people who lack guidance and opportunities. Each mentor spends a couple of hours a week with two students, building a strong relationship over the year.
Chrissi's role with RAP involves interviewing Year 12 students to understand their interests and career aspirations and to identify pathways for them during the year.
Chrissi explained the process of helping students explore different trades and the impact of guest speakers from the industry at classes or supervising practical work. The program aims to provide students with practical experience and exposure to various trade industries. Chrissi shared a story about a student who was sick but still attended work experience, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities. The program encourages students to take responsibility and make the most of their experiences.
Chrissi spoke of the challenges of securing work placements for students, often due to economic conditions. One company expressed a strong interest in hiring students but couldn't take them on due to workload. The program aims to help students understand the value of apprenticeships and further study in trade fields. Chrissi noted efforts to secure scholarships and financial assistance for students who need it.
An important feature of the program is the Kainga Ora Project and Community Support that it has generated.
This project was one where year 13 students worked on a relocated (to One Tree Hill College) house from demolition to completion, gaining practical experience in many aspects of trade life. Various trade industries supported the project by providing free services and equipment. The house is to be auctioned, and the project has garnered significant media coverage and high-lighting the success of the Trade Academy. Ex-students who worked on the house were involved in installing triple-glazed windows, a significant achievement for them.
The trade academy impacts not only the student but also their families and the wider community. There is a significant ripple effect. The program helps young people develop a healthy mindset and take responsibility for their futures. The students learn the value of teamwork and coopperation. The Trade Academy provides students with essential tools and equipment, ensuring they are well-prepared for their placements.
The academy is wider than trade training. On top of that the Penrose Rotary assists with helping students get drivers licences - a requirement for apprenticeships.
The program relies on warm contacts and community support to secure work placements and apprenticeships for students. The program administration is also exploring additional avenues to provide students with more opportunities for work placements and further training.
Chrissi encourages community members to contact herself or other organizers to offer work placements or mentorship opportunities.
Chrissi commented, in relation to a question about attendance statistics of the Trade Academy participants, that the 25 students in the Trade Academy move as a group, attend classes together and have become a cohesive unit. The program instills a sense of responsibility and opportunity in students, leading to high attendance and participation rates. This is supported by good tutoring and mentoring which aids in fostering self-responsibility and motivation in young people.
Footnote
Chrissi asks if any members have contacts in the auto mechanics industry. RAP has 2 students interested in the field.
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Auckland, 1051
New Zealand