Guest Speaker: Rose McQueen: Insects and their Genetics. Rose is currently completing a Bachelor of Science majoring in genetics at La Trobe University. She hopes to 
pursue post graduate studies focusing on bees and eventually work in academia. She would like to be a ‘Science communicator’ sharing her love and passion for insects. From a very early age she has bee
n fascinated by insects. With the aid of a powerpoint Rose defined what an insect is; the different classes of insects; insects in culture; threats to insects and finally what we can do to protect insects. Insects belong to the class Insecta which is the phylum Artropoda. The five different classes of insects are: Coleoptera (Beetles), Lepidoptera (Butterflies and moths), Hymenoptera (Wasps, bees and ants), Diptera (Flies) and Hemiptera (True bugs). Rose detailed the characteristics of each class of insect. Rose concluded by listing ways citizen scientists can help in-sects, many of whom are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, use of insecticides and climate change.
pursue post graduate studies focusing on bees and eventually work in academia. She would like to be a ‘Science communicator’ sharing her love and passion for insects. From a very early age she has been fascinated by insects. With the aid of a powerpoint Rose defined what an insect is; the different classes of insects; insects in culture; threats to insects and finally what we can do to protect insects. Insects belong to the class Insecta which is the phylum Artropoda. The five different classes of insects are: Coleoptera (Beetles), Lepidoptera (Butterflies and moths), Hymenoptera (Wasps, bees and ants), Diptera (Flies) and Hemiptera (True bugs). Rose detailed the characteristics of each class of insect. Rose concluded by listing ways citizen scientists can help in-sects, many of whom are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, use of insecticides and climate change. In our gardens: Limit the use of pesticides ·
Avoid removing native plants ·
Establish pollinator gardens
In the world: ·Use iNaturalist, find an invertebrate to be passionate about and be curious and share that curiosity
After questions, Jill moved a vote of thanks to Rose for her informative and interesting presentation.
Photo -Rose with her stick & leaf insect pets
3 minuter - Chris Kellett Chris referred to historical primary sources — namely letters, to share some of the experiences of her grandfather Ewen McColl McDonald. Ewen was a prolific letter writer to his family during his war service 
during WW1 from 1916 – 1919, with his first letter written to his sister when he was training at Seymour. Ewen chronicled the voyage to the conflict in Europe, including when two members of his unit died off the coast of Africa, and were subsequently buried at sea. Ewen was the recipient of the Military Medal when under the cover of darkness, he and two others neutralized a heavily fortified German bunker with a grenade. Ewen described the horrific battleground conditions his unit endured, particularly when gas shells fell like hail. He also described happier times when peace was finally declared. Ewen’s letters were typed up by his sister’s family, for Ewen’s own children and nieces and nephews. Chris reflected on the importance of taking note of our own family histories.
during WW1 from 1916 – 1919, with his first letter written to his sister when he was training at Seymour. Ewen chronicled the voyage to the conflict in Europe, including when two members of his unit died off the coast of Africa, and were subsequently buried at sea. Ewen was the recipient of the Military Medal when under the cover of darkness, he and two others neutralized a heavily fortified German bunker with a grenade. Ewen described the horrific battleground conditions his unit endured, particularly when gas shells fell like hail. He also described happier times when peace was finally declared. Ewen’s letters were typed up by his sister’s family, for Ewen’s own children and nieces and nephews. Chris reflected on the importance of taking note of our own family histories.Secretary’s Report: Glenda Woods · Members, Subs now due. · 3x3m Rotary branded marquee ordered · 60 Rotary Christmas Cake ordered. · Community Chair Sam, along with Secretary Glenda attended a community evening at Seymour Bunnings. Details of regulations for planned BBQ on Nov 22nd explained and roster to be drawn up from 9am — 4pm. Bunnings also offers opportunities to promote events, sell raffle tickets etc. at other opening times. · 2027 Art Show committee meeting held at Glenn’s with initial planning matters confirmed and tasks allocated. Friday 22nd January will be opening night with the Art Show closing on Tuesday 26th at 2pm.
Elizabeth, Sandy and Tai McQueen (L-R)
The caterers Deb Baynes and team were thanked, in absentia, for their delicious meal with Darryl noting that Deb ‘Makes the best crackling in Yea!’
Past President Darryl thanked Rosie for her attendance and presentation and wished her well for her future. Rose and family were then invited to sign the recently unearthed Visitors’ Book.
Next week’s guest speaker will be MS Councillor Paul Hildebrand, replacing Damien Gallagher who is an apology. The meeting closed at 8.15pm.
Past President Darryl thanked Rosie for her attendance and presentation and wished her well for her future. Rose and family were then invited to sign the recently unearthed Visitors’ Book.
Next week’s guest speaker will be MS Councillor Paul Hildebrand, replacing Damien Gallagher who is an apology. The meeting closed at 8.15pm.