Combined Meeting of 12 August 2013 (ACMF)

Posted by David Fisher

on Aug 14, 2013

A combined meeting was held with the Rotary clubs of Taree on Manning, Taree North and Wingham. The meeting was chaired by Maurie Stack (President of Taree on Manning). Guests were entertained by the Manning Valley Youth Concert Band prior to the meeting.

The evening was opened by a wonderful performance of “Les Poissons” from the film “The Little Mermaid” by Charlotte Reece. Guests included Mayor Paul Hogan, District Governor Rob Anderson, Founder of the Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF) – Don Spencer OAM.

Don Spencer spoke of the importance of music and how it is an incredible thread through our lives. He spoke of his experiences when he first started working with children in juvenile detention centres and the impact his work had on these children. Out of this work he went on to found the Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF). More than 75% of public schools in Australia do not have funds for a music teacher or instruments. The ACMF is a charity that provides free music education and instruments to disadvantaged and Indigenous children and youth at risk. The ACMF has now been running for over 10 years and has programs in every juvenile detention centre in Australia and will soon be helping young asylum seekers. The ACMF currently has programs at Taree High School, Chatham Primary School, Taree Primary School & Manning Gardens Primary School.

The Manning Valley Schools Spectacular will be held on 23 November 2013 and will feature performances from many school children from Taree and surrounding areas. The spectacular will be hosted by George Houvardas (Packed to the Rafters, East West 101). There will be two concerts at the Manning Entertainment Centre, showcasing the talent of our local school students. This will feature students who are taking part in programs run by the ACMF. The Manning Valley Schools Spectacular will raise funds for the ACMF programs in Taree. It is being supported by the 4 Rotary clubs in our area.

Katy Hardyman spoke of her work with the ACMF over the past 12 months and presented a short film showing some highlights of the work of ACMF.

Local musician Matt Zarb, who works with students in ACMF programs, spoke passionately about his experience with students and the difference that music makes in their lives. He also performed a favourite song of his students, “Cigarettes & Beer”.

Finally, District Governor Rob Anderson addressed the meeting and encouraged the clubs in our area to apply for a Rotary Foundation Grant to assist the ACMF program in Taree. Don Spencer was made a Paul Harris Fellow and presented with his citation and award by the District Governor.

More photos of the evening are in the Photo Album.