Meeting 888 "Practice Makes Perfect"

Possums

No, this photo has nothing to do with Toastmasters. But it's the reason I was late for the meeting. The possums that had been living in my ceiling had been trapped & I had to wait until after dark before setting them  free. I just had to show you because they are so cute!

So I missed the beginning of the meeting & arrived during the Table Topics. Monica had chosen some excellent topics - they were brief, no long introduction needed and could be answered by anyone. (At least in theory.)

The topics were, "I should have known," "They were wrong," "It's going to take time," and "It's the best option for me." They were answered by Terry, Robert, Dave and Anne.

Amanda

Amanda evaluated the Table Topics. It was her first time as evaluator and she handled it very well.

A lot of our members were absent.  Some were ill, some on holiday and a few had studies. It was good to have our guests Jaya and Christine back again as well as Anne, a first time visitor.

 Toastmaster Rhys kept the meeting running smoothly.

Maureen presented her second speech, entitled "Holiday Times" and had some helpful suggestions to make holidays stress free.
John T's speech, his second also, was "Australia - Where to Now?" with a lot of tongue in cheek humour.

The speeches were evaluated by June, another first time evaluator, and Leesa.

In preparation for the Area Conference, Annette delivered her contest speech, and was given a group evaluation, which was led by Liz Wo. We wish Annette success in the  speech contest, as well as the evaluation contest. Also Dave in the table topics contest.

The business session was also conducted by Annette. The main business was the position of treasurer, as Kylie is taking an extended break from Toastmasters, because of other commitments.  We were unable to elect a new treasurer at the meeting, but don't worry, someone has come forward since to take on the position. Stay tuned!

Grammarian Kylie commented on the ums & aahs as well as some good word usage during the meeting.

Robert's guide dog Homer took control of the lectern for a few minutes.

John S was General Evaluator. He suggested putting "6.30 pm for 7 pm" on the programme, as quite a few members had turned up right on 7 pm. He also stressed the need to have a copy of the minutes at the business session and for executive members to send a report if they could not be present.

Annette closed the meeting & presented the evening's awards to Anne (Best Table Topic,) John T (Best Speech,) Leesa (Best Evaluation,) Amanda (Personal Best,) & Rhys (Best Contribution,)

Sorry, I didn't get a photo. My battery had gone flat taking photos of possums & I forgot to take a spare one.)

Don't forget there are 5 Tuesdays in this month, so it will be an extra week till the next meeting on the 13th November.

Meanwhile, see you at the Area Conference on Saturday.