Reports on Events and Meetings

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting – Incoming President Ronnie Pook

Thursday 3rd July 2025.

Members: 25

Guests: 0

Outgoing President David Walker opened the meeting and welcomed members present.

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris and included musings on:

How nice it was to see Ronnie managing to come along this week (just 51 to go).

Wimbledon and the British Rain.

Tears from the Chancellor of the Exchequer under pressure.

King Charles visited Fife and obviously got lost as he wound up in Kirkcaldy.

Pres. David then welcomed incoming President Ronnie to the role and presented him with the President’s Jewel and Chain.

New President Ronnie then took on the meeting.

Ronnie’s first Presidential acts were to thank David for his very successful year as President, thank everyone for attending and supporting the club, apologise for missing his first week as President due to Holiday commitments, and then introduce his new SVP Ian Wilson who also received a modest jewel (size isn’t everything).

President Ronnie gave us an overview of the size and spread of Rotary worldwide – now 1.4M members across 200 countries – and reiterated the good that the organization has done and will continue to do.

Ronnie reminded us of our new Rotary International President for 2025/26 - Francesco Arezzo Club of Ragusa Italy, and the motto he has adopted for his year: “Unite for Good”.

Ronnie went on to give us a short version of his biography, from roles in Banking and Building Societies, then moving into the Leisure and Tourism sector with his Golfing tourism business, Ronnie was more than happy to be able to turn his hobby into his business.

As all members will know Ronnie and Carol have worked long and hard to make the business the huge success that it is today, and on the crest of that wave Ronnie is now looking at a well-earned retirement.

Ronnie’s vision for the Club in his Year is to keep the club growing and evolving. We have seen several members leave the club this year through retirement and (sadly) passing away, and Ronnie is keen to see new members come through the door.

Ronnie is also keen on us being flexible, if necessary, adjusting the shape and direction of the club as the demands on us change.

Ronnie wants us to continue to engage within the club membership through Friendship, Social events, Fundraising activities, local events such as Kids Out and the Schools Tech Challenge, where possibly combining with Other Clubs.

There then followed a brief Intermission for dinner and Tablet.

Ronnie then picked back up on membership growth, every member is an ambassador for the club, and Ronnie encouraged every member to find at least one friend / colleague / acquaintance / relative who could be inducted into the club; Ronnie has set a target of six new members in his year.

Ronnie then advised that this year’s Program Team will be chaired by Brian Blanchflower with support from Ian Morris who did such a fine job of it in the last year. They already have c.80% of the year “programmed” and are actively working on the other 20%. All members are asked to look out for possible speakers and outside events – details and ideas to Brian if you have any.

Business / Reports: Ronnie with support from Alan Condie, Ian Morris, Andrew Watson and David Fraser

1. The High Schools Technology was held on Monday 30 June and a great success, winning team was from St Columbus HS with runners up from Dunfermline HS and Woodmill HS. Alan expressed thanks to all members who were able to support the event on the day. A special thanks to David Brown who stepped in as chief judge at the 11th hour as well as trying the challenge for himself to show how easy it was….

2. Social evening at BOOFI fusion buffet in Dunfermline. Andrew Watson has organized this and asks all members to pay him, and he will then settle the bill with the Restaurant, £22 pp and buy your own drinks.

3. Treasurer David Fraser advised that membership subs are due for the coming year: £125pp for membership plus an additional £60 if members wish to take part in the monthly draw (Prizes £50 and £30 pm).

· Payment (£125 or £185) to Rotary General Account: 82-62-19 6046 1378

4. Ian Morris announced that the first social away day for the club will be an event at the Festival Fringe – on a Friday or Saturday in August – event and date TBA. Ian is also looking at events in The Outwith Festival to see if there’s anything we may want to support, again TBA.

5. Upcoming Golf events: Ronnie summarised these, as above more details to come in due course. If members are interested in any of these then names please to Keith McFarlane.

· Friendly 4-somes – Details TBA

· Family Golf event (for golfers and non-golfers). Planned for 2nd last Sunday in August. Details due from Keith McFarlane

· SCLAR trophy competition will be held at Kinross Golf Club, planned for the 1st Sunday in October. Again, details TBA

6. Membership, after some discussion it was agreed that Babcock remain on our “books” as a corporate member, represented by George White.

· (George if you manage to see this minute and have any comments, please let me know (Neil Wilson, Sec.)

No further business.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 10th July 2025.

Members: 22

Guests: 1 Bill (Dusty) Miller – “I wish I’d thought of that”.

President Ronnie’s first full meeting, Ronnie welcomed 22 members and one guest to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris. Ian shared some thoughts on the warm sunny weather we have seen recently and the need to protect ourselves from it as we are unaccustomed to it, it isn’t made of leather so don’t risk your skin; but on the other hand, enjoy it while it lasts.

“Oh, and if you haven’t already… pay your Dues”

1. The Club has been asked to put forward a member who is willing to be our point person on all things PVG – Mike Williams generously offered to take this on.

2. Mike Williams then discussed the upcoming District 1010 Conference, to be held on Sat 25 October at The Glen in Dunfermline 09.00 - 1230. Mike has been asked to arrange an activity or event on the Friday (24th) for those District Reps who have travelled the day before. The original idea was for a “mini gavel” competition, but given the numbers involved this is not possible. The Idea of Quiz instead was mooted and largely (informally) agreed. Additionally, our Club has been asked to provide stewarding support for the Saturday event; also, members are asked to attend the event if possible as club representatives. Mike agreed to follow up on this and keep members advised.

3. Ian Morris advised us of the upcoming Couples event at the Edinburgh Festival/Fringe. Ian has bought the requisite number of tickets and has published the QR Code and details of meal options. Ian asks all those interested to advise their meal options as soon as possible.

4. Brian Blanchflower gave us an update on the program for the coming year.

· This evening Dusty Miller (see below)

· Thursday 24th July: Sandy Masterton & Martin Rogers with an illustrated talk on the history of Rosyth Dockyard

· The Program year is now pretty-much complete, and the Google Sheets have been updated to reflect this. Brian expressed his thanks to his team for making this happen so quickly and so seamlessly. Brian expressed particular thanks to Ian Morris for keeping a hand on the tiller until Brian returned from his vacation.

· Brian also mentioned some of the external (non-meeting) events coming up:

i. Festival Fringe visit

ii. Couples’ Golf at the Halkett course on Sunday 24th August

iii. Indoor Bowling at Headwell club on Thursday 28th August.

5. Dunfermline Whisky Association who supports a local charity “Sailability” are having a photo shoot at Lochore Meadows Park on Saturday 26th July and have asked for a Club representative to support this. Mike Williams kindly agreed to do this.

Dinner and conversation

Speaker Dusty Miller – I wish I’d thought of that

After a brief resume of Bill’s Resume by President Ronnie, Dusty addressed the club for the second time in recent months. Bill’s last talk was about memory, how it works, why it stops working and how to train it to “keep it fit”.

This time Dusty gave us a talk about lateral thinking, cool ideas and problem solving…

What makes us think of things? Where do “good ideas” come from?

In fact, it’s always the result of lateral thinking or “thinking outside the box” and often comes from taking a fresh look at a problem or having someone from a different background take a look.

Bill gave us a host of examples.

· Torvill and Dean making full use of Ravel’s “Bolero”, rather than edit the music to fit their routine they simply stayed kneeling on the ice, with skates off the floor, for the first 17 seconds of the piece, they then skated for the full piece of music, hit the crescendo at the end and won gold.

· Then there was the car that wouldn’t start if the kids wanted Vanilla Ice Cream, but any other flavour was OK.

· The soap factory in Japan that occasionally produced an empty box

· How to track an Afghani Warlord in his Mercedes.

· How to not spend $Millions on a NASA pen that works in zero gravity.

· Basketball hoops over recycle bins

· Where’s Wally poster above a Dentist Chair.

· Green lights in a car park

· Elevator buttons on the floor

· The Hotel Fire Escape Plan board at the foot of the door, not above it.

· Tuxedo pizza boxes

· Using a bus to clean the lights in the Clyde Tunnel

· Proving there’s more space in an iPod by drowning it and finally….

· A mute button on your microwave oven so your dinner guests don’t know you reheated the meal….

Bill gave us a fair few more, but you get the picture.

His final example was of an idea that didn’t go quite so well.

After a lengthy and costly project with the Folks on Madison Avenue Electrolux proudly unveiled their new slogan….” Nothing sucks like an Electrolux”. Wasn’t received by the buying public in quite the way they’d hoped.

VOT: the vote of thanks was delivered by David Gemmel, gamely working with his new joint.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 24th July 2025.

Members: 22

Guests: 4 Sandy Masterton & Sandy Rogers - speakers.

Andy Gordon & Gerry Moriarty – friends of members

Errata: two notes from the previous meeting minutes to be corrected.

1. Andrew Croxford, not Mike Williams, volunteered to be the club representative for all things PVG – thanks Andrew

2. John Haxton, not David Gemmel, delivered the VOT for Bill Dusty Miller’s talk – thanks John

President Ronnie welcomed twenty-two members and four guests to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Sean Doran. Given recent sporting events, Sean shared some thoughts on winning Vs. losing Vs. just being in the game. While we may aim for gold, achieving it or not isn’t as important as taking part; it’s the work done, the preparation made, and then being in the moment. That said, winning does make it better…

Business and Social.

1. SVP Ian Wilson gave an update on the weekend’s event with Rotary Club of Cowdenbeath. As part of their centenary celebrations RC of Cowdenbeath produced a plaque in-memory of the miners of the area who worked and often suffered injury or worse, either during their working day or in later life. After some lengthy speeches, in the rain, Jim Leishman unveiled the plaque, which is on display at The Mining Heritage, in Brunton Square, Cowdenbeath.

2. Ian went on to note that Craig Bennet from the Cowdenbeath Club is planning to visit us on an upcoming Thursday.

3. Ronnie updated the club on the Dunfermline Whisky Association’s photo-shoot for their charity “Sailability”, which Mike Williams was to represent the club at, has been postponed, still planned for Lochore Meadows Country Park; update to be advised.

4. Ronnie asked a reluctant Keith McFarlane to update us on the golf pairs: Ralph McCran and John Sim beat Keith and Ronnie to move onto the next round.

5. Ian Morris advised us of the upcoming Couples event at the Edinburgh Festival/Fringe. All is done, meals requested, tickets purchased, 17 people attending.

6. Finally, Ronnie reminded the club that the next Council meeting (his first as Pres.) will be held at his address on Monday 28th July at 19.00 hrs. An agenda is currently being worked up and will be forwarded to Council members over the weekend.

Dinner and conversation

Speaker: Sandy Masterton supported by Martin Rogers on the subject of Rosyth Garden City and the Royal Dockyard.

After a brief introduction by Pres. Ronnie Sandy gave us an overview of the history of Rosyth and the Royal Dockyard.

The Dockyard was very busy during the two world wars and part of the Cold War, is less so now. However, 110 years ago there was nothing there, no dockyard, no Rosyth, just farmland and a few buildings.

Due to the advantageous aspects of the River Forth, wide estuary, deep water etc. a dockyard at Rosyth was given the go ahead and work started in it in 1909. The town of Rosyth was developed, in part, to accommodate the 5,000+ workers (“Navvies”) employed to build the Dockyard.

It is estimated that around 60 workers lost their lives during the building, about the same as those lost during the construction of the Forth Bridge. There is no record of the number of injuries.

As well as the men, there was a huge amount of plant and material brought into the area including over 50 locomotives, for the railway they built to move equipment around.

As the Dockyard was a Military / Naval Project, the work on the dockyard spawned the development of ancillary Military sites in the area:

o Communications towers on Castlandhill

o Hospital and Barracks in Rosyth

o Barrage Balloons at North Queensferry

o A Destroyer Base at Port Edgar

o An Air Station at Donibristle

o An Ordnance Store and Gunnery School at Crombie.

Additionally, Rosyth started to grow (Bungalow City, Dolly Town etc.) initially to accommodate the working men but then to accommodate military personnel and their families; and finally, as people moved to the area through natural growth. In 1916 “The Garden City” build commenced.

The first RN vessel to enter the dockyard was HMS Crescent.

During its early days the Dockyard was visited by various dignitaries including Kings, Emperors and Prime Ministers. The list of Ships that docked there is equally impressive including the previous and current Naval vessels named Queen Elizabeth.

The Dockyard was busy throughout the 1914-18 war and was host to the surrender of the German fleet before they were escorted to Scapa Floe. There the German crews scuttled and sank them rather than see them broken up or re-tasked under the British Flag.

Between 1918 and 1924 the dockyard was used as a port and a breakers’ yard for military ships that were no longer required; after a few years this work dried up and came to an end in 1924.

In 1925 the Dockyard was mothballed as there was little need for a naval dockyard; however, the peace wasn’t to last, and in 1938 the Dockyard re-opened as the prospect of hostilities with Germany (again) became a reality. It was at this time that HMS Caledonia was established.

The Dockyard’s increased relevance in the new war effort resulted in an influx of work and men again – both military and civilian. It also attracted the attention of The Luftwaffe who bombed the dockyard in October 1939, resulting in the death of sixteen people. Martin then showed a short film of the burial service for those lost in the bombing.

The flow of men back into the area meant more house building – this time in the Kings Road area and Dollytown.

After the end of WW2, it was feared that The Dockyard would again be shut down, but this time it remained open.

Over the following years the fortunes of the Dockyard have changed for better and for worse, however the relevance of the site has remained and during the brief Falklands War a great deal of activity was seen around both the Dockyard and The Ordnance Stores at Crombie.

Today The Dockyard is in private ownership with many businesses working out of the port and surrounding area.

Similarly, Rosyth as a town has continued to grow with new housing and businesses coming into the area.

Martin then closed the presentation with a short (very dated) film entitled “Commissioning at Battleship”. An enjoyable and interesting film with some fascinating views of the dockyard and the ship involved; members also enjoyed the voice-over from an over-excited Narrator with marbles in his mouth talking about 2x normal speed and a deafeningly jingoistic soundtrack. (they really don’t make them like they used to…)

The talk concluded with 3 or 4 good questions from the members.

VOT: Jim Leggat gave Sandy and Martin a respectful, grateful and succinct Vote of Thanks.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 31st 2025.

Members: 18

Guests: 1 Alan Donaldson (Speaker)

President Ronnie welcomed eighteen members and one guest to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris. Ian made an excellent start with a mouthful of bread (great timing Ronnie), then commenced a lengthy dump on the US President after his short self-interested visit to Scotland.

A visit in which he complained about wind turbines and European Immigration, attacked Sadiq Khan in front of his friend Kier Starmer, attacked Nicola Sturgeon as being “an awful person” (she later said “the feeling is mutual”) and managed to get a ludicrously one-sided trade deal with the EU. All the while playing (and shamelessly cheating at) golf and saying how much he loves Scotland.

No dissenting voices in the room, and a promise of something more uplifting next week (maybe it was the bread)

Business and Social.

· Sports Correspondent Keith McFarlane gave an update on the recently completed Golf Contest – “Friendly Fours”.

o 2024 Winners Graham Steedman & David Chalmers

o This now puts David clear 2nd in number of times winning the cup - five x. David's first win was with David Smith was in 1991

o Graham is now in 3rd equal place, with Ken Fraser on 4 wins.

o Jim Barnet's record of 10 wins is well out in front. (He won 4 times in the first 5 years of the competition which began in 1978)

o David Chalmers now equals Jim Barnet's record of twice having consecutive wins.

o Other consecutive winners have been Ken Fraser, Chris Morris and Graham Steedman, but the record for most consecutive wins is George Adamson with 3 between 1996 to 99.

· Pres. Ronnie advised members of his first Council meeting held on Monday 28th July in which, in addition to the standard agenda items, the following items were discussed

o The Club website which has fallen somewhat into disrepair and lack-of-use is to be reviewed and upgraded. Douglas Scott, who will be our speaker on Thursday 4th September will be asked to help with this necessary work.

o A new WhatsApp group is to be introduced for prospective new members, and anyone identified as being interested in Rotary; this so they can be made aware of any talks and activities that they may want to join in.

o Ronnie mentioned that we have a busy August coming up; thanks are due to Brian Blanchflower and Ian Morris for leading the program effort.

o August includes a full slew of meetings plus some external events: including

§ A visit to the Festival Fringe

§ The annual Couples’ Golf tourney at the Halkett course

§ A visit to Headwell Bowling club

§ Ronnie / Brian / Ian encouraged all members to support these events as much as possible.

o The Royal Marines Band concert will again take place just before Christmas in Dunfermline Abbey, ticket prices have been adjusted to £15 for concessions (including parents of school choir children) and £20 for everyone else.

o The Program for 2025/26 is very full but not quite complete, there are still a handful of “empty” slots which Brian and Ian

· Ian M reminded us of an event at this year’s Outwith Festival – “Mary, Queen of Rock” – and again asks members to support if they are interested. Details of this show have been shared on the Club’s WhatsApp page.

· Brian Mitchell (ADG) made a request to the Club that our Program be published or advised to other clubs in the district in case their members are interested in joining us; also, so they may share their own programs with us. A copy of the program has been forwarded to Brian Mitchell as requested.

Dinner and conversation… and tablet… then…

Speaker: Alan Donaldson – Water Polo

Alan has represented Dunfermline, Scotland and Great Britain at Water Polo, he is now a much-respected Coach and instructor for the sport. Alan is a Dunfermline man and throughout his talk referred to Dunfermline people and places that have meant so much to him in his life and his chosen sport through the years.

Alan started out as an avid sports fan and keen swimmer, encouraged by his Father who played Water Polo before it had any prominence in Scotland.

Alan described his career, from early days when he was placed in the U/10 rankings for local swimming, through to his first forays into Water Polo (WP) in 1970, described by himself then as playing “heeders in the bath”.

Alan’s swimming career stalled in 1972, and he became more fully engaged with WP; in 1976 Alan made it into the Scottish U/18 team during which he trained in Aberdeen and Dundee and represented Dunfermline in competitions in England. It was here that Alan first realized that, although barely a footnote in Scottish Sport, WP was big elsewhere.

In 1979 Alan was in the Scottish U/21 team and found himself competing across Europe.

During the period 1977-81 Alan’s WP took time out to train at Jordan hill College as a PE Teacher; that said he continued with his swimming and WP training throughout.

In 1980 Alan joined the Scottish Senior WP team for a tournament in Malta; they didn’t do well but learned a huge amount about WP and how it was played in other countries.

Alan and his team had been absent from Dunfermline due to refurbishment of the Carnegie centre, but in 1982 that was complete, and the team were again able to train in Dunfermline. When the team returned to Malta in 1984, they won.

Through the 19890’s and 90’s the Scottish team competed at a variety of tournaments both in Europe and here, against the other home nations. In 1980 Scotland placed 4th out of 4, in 1990 Scotland placed 1st.

Alan stressed the point here that of the 15 players in the Scotland team at that time 6 were from Dunfermline and another 4 from Portobello – “local lads make good”.

Alan’s talk completed the 90’s and 00’s with growing success of the Scottish and GB teams, culminating in his retirement from the game in 2009.

However, by 2022 Alan found himself coaching Ladies WP teams in various age groups including the Edinburgh University Ladies Team and the Scotland Ladies team.

Alan went on to give a short quiz on Water Polo, internationally and from Scotland’s POV. A good set of questions which our members largely failed to answer. Alan went on to show us a video of the highlights of a recent championship WP match (Men’s) between Hungary and Spain; it was interesting to note that when Alan thought we’d had enough and offered to stop the video we all kept watching. Even for a room full of people with little knowledge of the game, the match was electric.

Alan concluded his talk after the video and welcomed several questions.

VOT: Keith McFarlane gave Alan the Vote of Thanks (plus a couple more questions).

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 21 August 2025.

Members: 19

Guests: 9 Ivy Partridge – Speaker – “The Brech boys Vs. The Beatles”.

Wendy Spence, Kath Haxton, Claire Blanchflower, Moira Watson, Isa Anderson,

Carol Pook, Jo Morgan, Mark Todd (Past Pres. Rotary Club of W. Fife)

President Ronnie welcomed 19 members and 9 guests to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Sean Doran, reproduced here in full with, more than a nod to this evening’s speaker…

Should have composed this ditty on Tuesday

Then the men in suites (Heroes) would have met in DC Yesterday

Discussing all those troubles seeming so far away

We all hoped for good vibrations

A path to peaceful nations

But, back in the USSR

Putin’s (Villians) still with his militar

He’s for “Let it be?”

And not let people be free

Let’s hope the suites are not too rash

Or could end up a bit of a bus crash

Beatles v Beach Boys, We are curious

I am the Walrus

Business and Social.

· Pres. Ronnie reminded members that the 1010 75th Annual District Conference is planned for Saturday 25th October, at the Glen Pavilion Dunfermline. Preceded on the Friday evening by a Rotary Quiz night, to be held either at Canmore Golf Club; Ronnie again asked that members both register for attending the conference and the quiz.

Members can obtain tickets by following this link:

Rotary District 1010 Conference 2025/26 Tickets, Sat, Oct 25, 2025 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite

Quiz proceeds are earmarked to support World Polio Day.

· Ralph McCran reported on the success of the Members+ visit to the Edinburgh Festival fringe event and dinner. A very enjoyable event, despite the collision suffered by the bus on the way home – thankfully no-one injured…

· Andrew Watson has requested names and numbers for the Club Christmas Dinner; Andrew has collected 44 names so far but is looking for at least 60. After the success of last year’s dinner members are recommended to contact Andrew for some seats.

· There will be a members + partners wine and cheese evening on Friday 28 November, cost £25pp, more information on this to follow.

· Brian Blanchflower reminded members that next week’s meeting will be an outside event at Headwell Bowling club – indoor bowls. Please arrive 18.50 hrs for a 19.00 hrs start. Members are asked to pay £10 pp IN CASH, for the bowling, tuition and refreshments.

· Brian described three other upcoming events in September.

o Wed 3rd – Mary Queen of Rock show at Carnegie Hall – more details TBA

o Thu 4th – Internal meeting: Douglas Scott “Know your beef”.

o Fri 5th – Concert at Dunfermline Abbey

· Ronnie reminded Members about the couples Golf event at Dunfermline Pitfirrane Golf Club – Halkett course on Sunday 24th August – Little or no golf experience is required – it’s a fun day

Dinner and conversation.

Speaker: Ivy Partridge – The Beach Boys Vs. The Beatles.

Pres. Ronnie introduced this evening’s speaker.

Ivy had a presentation comparing the music of the Beach Boys and The Beatles, the influences that shaped their music, and their influence on the music scene as well as on the wider social scene, and finally their influence on each other.

Ivy presented a fascinating insight into their songs and albums as well as some deeper analysis of their more popular songs and what made them unique.

Throughout her presentation Ivy played a selection of songs from both Bands and gave insightful comments on them.

It was interesting to hear described, not so much the competition between the two Bands but more how each spurred the other onto greater achievements, in an environment of mutual respect. The best example of this was the release of Pet Sounds (Beach Boys) which was in turn a major spur to the writing and release of Sgt Pepper (Beatles); Ivy gave a quote from Paul McCartney that “God only know” (Pet Sounds) was the best Pop song ever written.

Ivy described some of the more unusual instruments and effects used including the Harpsichord on My Life (Beatles) and the Sitar on Norwegian Wood (also Beatles); Ivy went on to describe how this didn’t always work with the example of Phil Spector’s “wall of sound” being widely deployed across Paul McCartney’s ballad “The long and Winding Road”; McCartney didn’t like it but was overruled.

Similarly, the Beach Boys music also employed “effects” such as bicycle bells and barking dogs.

Ivy gave us some statistics.

Rolling Stone Magazine top Albums of all time:

#1. Sgt Pepper – The Beatles.

#2. Pet Sounds – The Beach Boys

Most Popular songs:

Good Vibrations, God Only Knows, A Day in the Life, Strawberry Fields, While My Guitar Gently Weeps.

Finally, Ivy ended with a sing-along of “When I’m Sixty-Four”, thankfully all members and guests joined in.

VOT: Blair Morgan delivered a worthy vote of thanks referring to our shared musical backgrounds and how Ivy had helped us all remember when we were sixty-four. Blair finished with a verse from ABBA’s “Thank-you For the Music”, very apposite lyrics which, thankfully, he didn’t sing.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 31st 2025.

Members: 18

Guests: 1 Alan Donaldson (Speaker)

President Ronnie welcomed eighteen members and one guest to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris. Ian made an excellent start with a mouthful of bread (great timing Ronnie), then commenced a lengthy dump on the US President after his short self-interested visit to Scotland.

A visit in which he complained about wind turbines and European Immigration, attacked Sadiq Khan in front of his friend Kier Starmer, attacked Nicola Sturgeon as being “an awful person” (she later said “the feeling is mutual”) and managed to get a ludicrously one-sided trade deal with the EU. All the while playing (and shamelessly cheating at) golf and saying how much he loves Scotland.

No dissenting voices in the room, and a promise of something more uplifting next week (maybe it was the bread)

Business and Social.

· Sports Correspondent Keith McFarlane gave an update on the recently completed Golf Contest – “Friendly Fours”.

o 2024 Winners Graham Steedman & David Chalmers

o This now puts David clear 2nd in number of times winning the cup - five x. David's first win was with David Smith was in 1991

o Graham is now in 3rd equal place, with Ken Fraser on 4 wins.

o Jim Barnet's record of 10 wins is well out in front. (He won 4 times in the first 5 years of the competition which began in 1978)

o David Chalmers now equals Jim Barnet's record of twice having consecutive wins.

o Other consecutive winners have been Ken Fraser, Chris Morris and Graham Steedman, but the record for most consecutive wins is George Adamson with 3 between 1996 to 99.

· Pres. Ronnie advised members of his first Council meeting held on Monday 28th July in which, in addition to the standard agenda items, the following items were discussed

o The Club website which has fallen somewhat into disrepair and lack-of-use is to be reviewed and upgraded. Douglas Scott, who will be our speaker on Thursday 4th September will be asked to help with this necessary work.

o A new WhatsApp group is to be introduced for prospective new members, and anyone identified as being interested in Rotary; this so they can be made aware of any talks and activities that they may want to join in.

o Ronnie mentioned that we have a busy August coming up; thanks are due to Brian Blanchflower and Ian Morris for leading the program effort.

o August includes a full slew of meetings plus some external events: including

§ A visit to the Festival Fringe

§ The annual Couples’ Golf tourney at the Halkett course

§ A visit to Headwell Bowling club

§ Ronnie / Brian / Ian encouraged all members to support these events as much as possible.

o The Royal Marines Band concert will again take place just before Christmas in Dunfermline Abbey, ticket prices have been adjusted to £15 for concessions (including parents of school choir children) and £20 for everyone else.

o The Program for 2025/26 is very full but not quite complete, there are still a handful of “empty” slots which Brian and Ian

· Ian M reminded us of an event at this year’s Outwith Festival – “Mary, Queen of Rock” – and again asks members to support if they are interested. Details of this show have been shared on the Club’s WhatsApp page.

· Brian Mitchell (ADG) made a request to the Club that our Program be published or advised to other clubs in the district in case their members are interested in joining us; also, so they may share their own programs with us. A copy of the program has been forwarded to Brian Mitchell as requested.

Dinner and conversation… and tablet… then…

Speaker: Alan Donaldson – Water Polo

Alan has represented Dunfermline, Scotland and Great Britain at Water Polo, he is now a much-respected Coach and instructor for the sport. Alan is a Dunfermline man and throughout his talk referred to Dunfermline people and places that have meant so much to him in his life and his chosen sport through the years.

Alan started out as an avid sports fan and keen swimmer, encouraged by his Father who played Water Polo before it had any prominence in Scotland.

Alan described his career, from early days when he was placed in the U/10 rankings for local swimming, through to his first forays into Water Polo (WP) in 1970, described by himself then as playing “heeders in the bath”.

Alan’s swimming career stalled in 1972, and he became more fully engaged with WP; in 1976 Alan made it into the Scottish U/18 team during which he trained in Aberdeen and Dundee and represented Dunfermline in competitions in England. It was here that Alan first realized that, although barely a footnote in Scottish Sport, WP was big elsewhere.

In 1979 Alan was in the Scottish U/21 team and found himself competing across Europe.

During the period 1977-81 Alan’s WP took time out to train at Jordan hill College as a PE Teacher; that said he continued with his swimming and WP training throughout.

In 1980 Alan joined the Scottish Senior WP team for a tournament in Malta; they didn’t do well but learned a huge amount about WP and how it was played in other countries.

Alan and his team had been absent from Dunfermline due to refurbishment of the Carnegie centre, but in 1982 that was complete, and the team were again able to train in Dunfermline. When the team returned to Malta in 1984, they won.

Through the 19890’s and 90’s the Scottish team competed at a variety of tournaments both in Europe and here, against the other home nations. In 1980 Scotland placed 4th out of 4, in 1990 Scotland placed 1st.

Alan stressed the point here that of the 15 players in the Scotland team at that time 6 were from Dunfermline and another 4 from Portobello – “local lads make good”.

Alan’s talk completed the 90’s and 00’s with growing success of the Scottish and GB teams, culminating in his retirement from the game in 2009.

However, by 2022 Alan found himself coaching Ladies WP teams in various age groups including the Edinburgh University Ladies Team and the Scotland Ladies team.

Alan went on to give a short quiz on Water Polo, internationally and from Scotland’s POV. A good set of questions which our members largely failed to answer. Alan went on to show us a video of the highlights of a recent championship WP match (Men’s) between Hungary and Spain; it was interesting to note that when Alan thought we’d had enough and offered to stop the video we all kept watching. Even for a room full of people with little knowledge of the game, the match was electric.

Alan concluded his talk after the video and welcomed several questions.

VOT: Keith McFarlane gave Alan the Vote of Thanks (plus a couple more questions).

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 09 October 2025.

Members: 16 – enough for two tables

Guest: 0

President Ronnie welcomed 16 members to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris. Ian gave us his musings on the past week’s events.

A meteor was spotted over England last week…….that was cool
Not so great when they discovered the likely point of impact was Liverpool
The downside was they reckoned the whole city could be destroyed in the event
The upside was that house prices in the area were expected to go up 30%

An African Tribal King has moved out of a forest on the Scottish Border
Well more specifically he was evicted due to a court order
He said he was going back to Africa which they had left because of the wholesale deforestation by the loggers
But in hindsight he said “the forest near Jedburgh was a more dangerous place as it was full of winos & doggers”

Trump is still angling for a humanitarian award
By claiming he’s trying to stop Gaza being put to the sword
Despite all his buffoonery & lies
This sadly might just get him his nefariously coveted Nobel Peace Prize

This week there’s a lot to get through
So I’ll keep things short & hand back to President Ronnie & Pip to…..

Business and Social. Ronnie reported a few items of notes and interest.

· President Ronnie told members about the new short-form version of the printed Member’s handbook, then handed copies to members present. I will have more of these to distribute at subsequent meetings.

· Ronnie announced that there was a successful Council meeting last Sunday, minutes being distributed today.

· Ian Morris announced his annual collection for the Dunfermline foodbank. Over the next two weeks Ian will welcome donations from members to hand to the Foodbank.

o This year Ian asked Members to donate money instead of bags of groceries this time. The rationale being that, with cash, the Foodbank can gift-aid the donation and enhance it by another 30%.

o Additionally, the cash enables the Foodbank to buy the items they need.

o So, cash donations to Ian’s bank account please. NB: the donation range last year was £20 - £40.

· Ronnie advised members of the results of last Sunday’s Golf competition

o SCLAR prize went to David Walker for the best Stableford Points score

o JC Thomson prize went to Andrew Croxford for the best net score

· JVP Sean Doran reminded members advised members that Shoe Boxes are available for this year’s donations, boxes can be obtained through Sean. The timeline is tight this year with filled boxes to be returned to Perth, no later than 5th November.

· Jim Leggatt reminded members of the upcoming Rotary / Inner Wheel joint Burns Supper at GHH on Thursday 29th January.

o Garvock House Hotel. Start at 7pm, drink on arrival and a toast for the haggis. Two courses plus Tea / Coffee.

o Jim is asking for a volunteer to give the “Toast to the Lassies”, he has every other speaker covered but needs to find a speaker for this important part of the ceremonies.

o Tickets to be requested by email or in-person to Jim Leggatt

· This year’s Santa Dash and Santa Sleigh collections will be an effort to outdo last year’s 200 Santas and cash collections. John Sim is asking for volunteers to support the Santa Dash on the day as well as with the publicity. Social media postings and leafleting will kick off over the next two weeks.

· Ronnie told members about an invitation from RC of Burntisland & Kinghorn to take part in the Pilgrim’s Walk (Dunfermline to St Andrews), probably in the April / May’26 timeframe. If any members are interested in participating or in helping with the event, please advise Pres. Ronnie. NB: next meeting to discuss the event will be on 17th November.

· A charitable donation to be made on behalf of Alastair Brown will be handled by David Fraser.

· Keith McFarlane advised members about this year’s Remembrance Poppy Appeal, he has sent out an email to all members – the text from that is reproduced below. Please respond to be Keith by Phone, Text Message, Email, In Person, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tinder, GRNDR, Carrier Pigeon, Boy Scout with cleft stick…..

Dear All Members,

Yes, it's that time of the year again. In fact, the necessary tins and boxes are ensconced in my front room already.

I understand from Christine Evans - the local organiser; that Brian Blanchflower has arranged his to be picked up direct with Christine - which is fine.

The purpose of this email was to garner the names of those who are willing to help with the distribution and/or collection of the tins and Poppies.

If there is anyone thinking about it, here is a guide as to what is involved -

No area run takes much more than an afternoon or a morning I'd say. We basically drop off the tins and Poppies before the collection starts (around late Oct) and collect them in afterwards; after 11th Nov. A car is essential.

I look forward to hearing from anyone who may be interested in helping, whether you're an experienced regular or wish to offer yourself as a new helper. No need for those with onerous Rotary duties to apply – EG: Pres, Sec. etc and those still working,

Thank you all in anticipation.

Kind regards,

Keith

Dinner with Cadburys Chocolate

Speaker: Our own Pip Yeates with a worthy Member’s Tale – “Gorillas in the Mist”

Ronnie introduced fellow member Pip (Philip) who has been a member in good standing for over 28 years (1997), Pip has had a long relations ship with The Dunfermline Athletic (Pars) Football Club as their Physiotherapist of choice, however he also spent time working with Production Staff at Pinewood Studios in London.

It was this relationship that led to Pip being asked to join the team filming “Gorillas in the Mist”, the Bio-Pic of Dian Fossey who studied African Mountain Gorillas in the 1960’s.

Pip was necessary because of the extreme physical demands made on the production team, in particular the Director Michael Apted as well as the principal lead Actor Sigourney Weaver who played the titular role.

Working in extremes of heat and cold, humidity and high altitudes, Pip was kept busy helping the Director (and his ankle) stay fit enough for the arduous climb into and out of the mountains for each day’s filming; both preparing before starting out and again at the end of the day.

Pip also managed to spend a little time working with Ms. Weaver.

Most impressive to Pip through was when he was able, with a single Tracker, to travel into the hills himself for some up-close interaction with the wild mountain gorillas.

Pip described both the landscape and the people of Africa that he encountered during this time on-location, as well as observing the seldom-seen mechanics and logistics of filming in the bush, far from caterers, studios and the nearest Starbucks.

Pip described his encounter with a family group of Gorillas watched over by a 400LB “silverback” bull male. The large male seemed cool with the visitors provided they showed restraint and respect, something Pip felt happy to do.

Pip described the direct and assertive approach Dian Fossey took to the local poachers and those who overlooked the crimes or profited from them. In doing so she made some dangerous enemies and ultimately paid the price when she was brutally murdered for defending the gorillas.

One of her acts was to establish a cemetery for those Gorillas murdered by poachers, and after her death she was buried alongside them.

Pip was thanked profusely for his talk and received several good questions.

VOT: The Vote of thanks was delivered by David Brown.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 16 October 2025.

Members: 25

Guest: 1 Frazer McKenzie – “From professional Rugby to Traffic Management”

In President Ronnie’s absence SVP Ian Wilson welcomed 25 members and 1 guest (Frazer McKenzie) to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris. Ian gave us some perspectives on distance and space.

Did you know that, driving at 70 mph, it would take:

- 15 days to drive around the Earth

- 142 days to drive to the Moon

- 157 years to drive to the Sun

- 228 years to drive to Mars

- 6,000 years to drive to Pluto

- 40,000,000 years to drive to our closest star Proxima Centauri

- (Ian went on a bit more but my pen ran out after the first million…)

But we moan about walking 100 metres to the nearest bus stop….

Business and Social. Ian asked Members to report items of business and notes of interest.

· SVP Ian advised Members about RC of Stirling’s upcoming centenary Charter (10th April 2026) and that all members are invited to attend. If interested Members are asked to save the date, more information will follow.

· Ian Morris reminded members about his annual collection for the Dunfermline foodbank. Over the next two weeks Ian will welcome donations from members to hand to the Foodbank.

o This year Ian asked Members to donate money instead of bags of groceries this time. The rationale being that, with cash, the Foodbank can gift-aid the donation and enhance it by another 30%.

o Additionally, the cash enables the Foodbank to buy the items they need.

o So, cash donations to Ian’s bank account please. NB: the donation range last year was £20 - £40.

· There’s been a good response from members supporting the upcoming District Conference on Sat 25th October and the Mini-Gavel competition on the preceding Friday 24th October.

o Brian Blanchflower has a list of participants for both events and will send out a rota of duties before our next weekly meeting.

o As always, if any members have not yet expressed an interest, but wish to support or attend the events, please let Brian know ASAP.

o Mini Gavel, entry to the Glen Pavilion will be possible from 12 noon although it is recommended that there is ample time to set up if members arrive around 6pm for a 7pm kick off.

o The District Conference itself is an opportunity to highlight some of our current activities, so it is proposed that we set up a stall describing our fund-raising efforts – RMB Concert, Santa Dash, and Gin-Fest.

· The annual District Gavel competition has Dunfermline competing with RCs of Perth, Carse of Stirling and Bridge of Allen. First round to be completed before year-end. Mike Williams and Keith McFarlane will contact members for volunteer-contestants shortly.

· Treasurer David Fraser advised that all Member’s Subs have now been paid and banked.

· Brian Blanchflower gave a short update on the forthcoming program – see note at the end of this Minute.

· This year’s Santa Dash and Santa Sleigh collections are being headed up by John Sim and Graham Steedman. We are hoping to outdo last year’s 200 Santas and cash collections. John Sim is asking for volunteers to support the Santa Dash on the day as well as with the publicity. Social media postings have started and leafleting will kick off once some volunteers have been secured to support this.

· Andrew Watson reminded Members of the Christmas Lunch, to be held at GHH on Sunday 7th December. So far over 70 tickets sold, anyone else interested please let Andrew know ASAP.

· Ian announced the birthdays of two of our members: Jim Leggat and Graham Steedman.

Dinner: Indian themed meal choices, well received by Members.

Speaker: Frazer McKenzie: “From Professional Rugby to Traffic Management”

Frazer introduced himself – Dunfermline born and bred, Grew up in Baldridge burn and attended Queen Anne HS where he discovered a love of Rugby. Rugby has been in Frazer’s family for several generations, so he described it as “Rugby chose me”.

Frazer has been playing at a professional level since he was 16 and has, over the years played professionally for Edinburgh, Sale and Newcastle, before returning to Edinburgh in the latter part of his Rugby career.

During his time in Professional Rugby Frazer was able to meet and learn from some stalwarts of the game (including Doddie Weir). Frazer developed valuable people skills and a drive to succeed. Frazer’s work ethic on and off the field would stand him in good stead in a post-rugby life.

Like all sportsmen Frazer understood Professional sports is “a young man’s game” and knew well that, when he reached his 30’s, he’d have to find something else to do to “keep the lights on”.

Having providently saved during his career Frazer was able to take his time, upon retirement, to find the right thing to invest himself into.

Frazer bought into a modest Traffic Management Business based in Lochgelly. Using the transferrable people skills, drive and work ethic Frazer already had he has been able to jump into his new business with energy and enthusiasm.

His business is growing and finding new contracts throughout Fife.

Frazer’s talk was well received by an appreciative audience, indeed after a fair few Rugby-based questions (EG: “who’s the dirtiest player you came across?”) SVP Ian was forced to bring things to a close.

The two most notable non-rugby questions were:

- “What is the legal status of a temporary Red Light?” – answer “it means stop”.

- “Does your company get paid by the number of cones you put out?” – answer “no, but it’s something we will look into”.

VOT: The Vote of thanks was delivered by Andrew Watson

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 23 October 2025.

Members: 19

Guest: 2 Frances McCafferty – “Tales from the Footlights”, Jo Morgan

President Ronnie welcomed 19 members and 2 guests to the weekly meeting.

TFTD was presented by Sean Doran.

A short topical ditty

Arts and culture by Footlights Sporting endeavours under the Floodlights

But who’s under the spotlight Our unfortunate Prince Andy

Who once thought he was so privileged a dandy

His life now such a drama You have to believe in Karma

Reminds me of a Prince becoming the Pauper Will it be justice proper?

Who’s next?

Business and Social. Ronnie reported and asked Members to report items of business and notes of interest.

· John Sim reminded members that the Santa Dash will be held on Saturday 16th November in the High Street, gathering as usual in MJM car park.

o Marketing has kicked off on social media and leaflets have been prepared, John has asked for members to help hand out leaflets at Tesco F/S on Sunday 26th October – volunteers please.

o Also, a table will be set up in the Kingsgate the following weekend to continue the leafleting, as John will be away Graham Steedman has agreed to oversee this activity.

· Ian Morris reminded members about his annual collection for the Dunfermline foodbank. Ian’s timescales are such that, if members are yet to donate, he will require that donation - £££ or food - before Monday 27th October.

· There’s been a good response from members supporting the upcoming District Conference on Sat 25th October and the Mini-Gavel competition on the preceding Friday 24th October.

o Brian Blanchflower has sent out a rota of duties for Friday and Saturday.

o Gather at Glen Pavilion on Fri 24th 18.00 hrs

o Gather at Glen Pavilion on Sat 25th 09.00 hrs

· The annual District Gavel competition has Dunfermline competing with RCs of Perth, Carse of Stirling and Bridge of Allan. First round to be completed before year-end. Mike Williams and Keith McFarlane will contact members for volunteer-contestants shortly.

· Sean Doran reminded Members that anyone interested in filling a shoebox needs to have them back to Sean no later than 30th October.

· Kerr Fulton Peebles (really?), District 1010 Co-ordinator for ShelterBox has asked if our club will donate this year. In fact, the club donates every year, this to be further discussed by President Ronnie.

· RMBC tickets are now available, if you have ordered or paid for them, please get in touch with Brian Blanchflower asap. Ticket sales are going well but as always if you have the option to promote the event further (EG: Facebook) please do so.

· Andrew Watson reminded Members of the Christmas Lunch, to be held at GHH on Sunday 7th December. So far almost 80 tickets sold, anyone else interested please let Andrew know ASAP.

o Please note that the payment for tickets is now due and Andrew has asked that everyone please pay for the tickets they have reserved asap

o Cost £37.50pp

· Burns Supper Thursday 29th January – Jim Leggat is managing this event and is still in need of a speaker to present The Toast to the Lassies. Please note that the speaker does not need to “know Burns” but simply be willing to offer a fulsome toast to our better halves in the evening – preferably a funny one… Volunteers or suggestions (EG volunteering someone else) please to Jim.

Dinner:

Speaker: Frances McCafferty: “Tales from the Footlights”.

President Ronnie introduced the evening’s speaker.

Frances McCafferty is originally from Edinburgh, although her mother was a Fifer. She

moved to Dunfermline in 1981 and then to Cairneyhill in 1985, where she still lives. She

is Honorary President of the Dunfermline Gilbert and Sullivan Society and Patron of

Dunfermline Choral Union.

An elder in Dunfermline Abbey, she became Joint Session Clerk in 2019. Giving talks about her career in opera is a relatively new venture and one that came as a surprise to her, given someone had once commented that “she had a lovely voice – it was just a pity she had to speak”.

Frances, a familiar figure at Dunfermline musical events gave us a 20-minute run through of her career (to-date) and some of the highlights she was happy to share.

Frances always enjoyed singing but was unaware of Opera until she was asked to “help out” in a local production of Carmen. She was hooked.

Early performances in productions of Carmen and La Gioconda ensured Frances that this was what she wanted to spend her life doing.

Frances trained as a Mezze-Contralto briefly at the Glasgow Conservatoire then through a Scholarship she was able to train at a private school in London.

Over the following years Frances was able to travel throughout the UK and overseas for musical events – as part of the Gilbert & Sullivan fraternity (or perhaps sorority) as well as with other productions varying from Opera to Car promotion (Jaguar).

Frances’ engagement with the Dunfermline G&S society continues to this day although she has also been engaged with an English initiative for The Homeless called Streetwise Opera, a very worthwhile project that Frances hopes to see develop in Scotland too.

Through her career Frances has performed everywhere:

Tel Aviv, Stuttgart, Venice, Prague, Oslo, Netherlands, London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Ravenna, Singapore, Chicago, Ireland… to name a few…

Frances had several anecdotes from her career, the most memorable being a performance of “Orpheus and the Underworld” in which Euridice (imprisoned in Hades) was carried centre stage on the shoulders of a Bacchus (God of wine and revelry) who was wearing a flowing red wig that hadn’t been glued to his head. When Bacchus knelt to let Euridice slide over his head and onto the stage to strike a final pose, the red wig slipped off and travelled on down with Euridice. Her pose, with additional prop, brought the house down…

When asked what her favourite role was her answer was “whichever role I’m doing just now”

Frances received several questions and a fitting ovation.

VOT: The Vote of thanks was delivered by Mike Williams

President Ronnie Closed the meeting in the usual manner with a reminder that the clocks go back one hour on Saturday night.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 13 November 2025.

Members: 17

Guest: 2 Ian Mitchell – Commonwealth War Graves & Claire Blanchflower.

President Ronnie welcomed 17 members and 2 guests to our weekly meeting.

Two busy tables…

TFTD was presented by David Walker.

David, an eager critic of the US President, delivered a short poem on the latest depredations of the Halloween Pumpkin currently running (ruining) America.

The Orange One, known for having a thin skin, an easily bruised ego, and a penchant for litigation is suing the BBC for (rather stupidly) editing his infamous speech in January 2021, delivered just before an inflamed mob assaulted the Capitol Building.

It seems the Petulant Tangerine has fathered around 4,000 lawsuits since 1974, making a lot of Lawyers very wealthy and everyone else afraid of him. The recent release of (some of) the “Epstein Files” may see the start of his next lawsuit in 2026.

Business and Social.

Ronnie reported, and asked Members to report, items of business and interest.

· Remembrance Sunday

o The event went well with President Ronnie representing The RC of Dunfermline. Photographs of the event have been published in the Dunfermline Press.

o The event was notable for the rain and the fainting of 2 Air Cadets.

· Santa Dash (16 Nov)

o Graham Steedman and John Sim organising the event this year, all plans and permissions are in place.

o Those Members supporting the set up and ticket sales / suit distribution are asked to arrive at MJM car park for 11 am

o Those members marshalling the 5K in the Glen are asked to arrive at MJM car park around 12.30.

· Christmas Lunch (7 Dec)

o Over 80 tickets sold, still some availability.

o 2/3 of tickets have been paid for, Andrew Watson asks that unpaid members cough up the cash ASAP.

· Royal Marines Band Concert (10/11 Dec)

o Everything is in-hand for the two evening concerts; Rehearsals are running well.

o The two primary schools providing choirs are each putting forward 40 children – this has helped ticket sales among parents.

o Ticket sales have been strong with 180 sold for Wed 10th and 280 sold for Thu 11th

· Burns Supper (29 Jan)

o Jim Leggat is managing the Burns Supper with a good response for tickets.

o Jim has all speakers in-place except for someone to deliver the Toast to the Lassies. Anyone who is willing to give it a try, or who knows someone who is, please talk to Jim ASAP.

· 2025 poppy collection

o Christine Evans has yet again done a fantastic job organizing the Remembrance Poppy Appeal collections in this, her final year.

o The club’s contact for the poppy appeal, Keith McFarlane, expressed his thanks to everyone in the club who took part in the collections.

· The Gavel Competition

o Next round will be held in Perth on Wednesday 26th November. Keith McFarlane is organising this, he believes we will only require a team of six for this one.

o Can the “usual suspects” please let Keith know if they are available for the upcoming round?

· Pilgrim’s Way walk sponsored walk – fundraiser.

o No interest expressed by any members, the Club will pass on this.

· Program 2025/26

o There is a minor change to the program, Thursday 27th November speaker Will Jordan (local author) is now not available and has rescheduled to a date in the new year.

o In his place Keith McFarlane will entertain members with his tales of Mountains…

o Thursday 4th December’s Speaker – Dr James Robson (Retired SRU and British lions Team medic) is expected to draw a larger than usual crowd. If you are planning to bring guests to this event please let Brian Blanchflower know ASAP so we can help planning at GHH.

Dinner:

Speaker: Ian Mitchell – Commonwealth War Graves.

President Ronnie introduced the evening’s speaker.

Welcome to Ian Mitchell who has kindly journeyed here from Kinglassie this evening.
Ian was a Sciences Teacher in Fife for many years having had the misfortune of working at Lochgelly HS with Brian Blanchflower and then latterly at Beath HS until his early retirement in 2023.
As a teacher he assisted with a number of History Dept trips abroad including one to the Western Front around Ypres.
This inspired him to volunteer to help with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and he now has three roles with them.
Ian is tonight going to speak on Commonwealth War Graves, particularly in a local context……

Ian gave us an overview of the CWGC since it’s inception through it’s founder Sir Fabian Ware in 1917.

The CWGC is the largest horticultural organization in the world managing and maintaining cemeteries across the globe. They employ (literally) an army of gardeners and stonemasons to maintain and care for war graves in all the theatres that have seen action across The Commonwealth.

Ian described the appearance, format and the uniformity of the headstones in every cemetery and the ethos behind caring for them.

Ian described in some detail the ways in which information about the servicemen and women lost was recovered, verified and stored. There is now a mass of information (though the records are still incomplete) which is searchable online.

In Fife there are 71 cemeteries holding service personnel graves, Ian is part of a team that cares for and maintains 13 of these cemeteries. They look after these graves on a voluntary basis. Ian’s passion for the subject and his love for what he does – preserving the memory – are evident.

As well as caring for the cemeteries Ian is happy to conduct tours and discuss headstones and the stories behind them, as well as coming to events like this to talk about the CWGC and what they do.

Ian showed a short video promoting the CWGC and their work and encouraged members to get involved if they have an interest.

Finally, Ian gave a few examples, and the stories behind some of the local men and women who died in-service and are interred in Fife.

- Flight Cadet Andrew Hepburn – RAF

- Lance Corporal James Addison – 12th Battalion Royal Scots

- Chief Engine room Artificer Alexander Smith – HMS President

- Telegraphist Alexander James Smith (his son) – HM Submarine C23

- Nurse Catherine Cook Miller – Territorial Force Nursing Service

- Musketeer Christian Meyer – German Army – POW Inverkeithing

- Flight Sergeant Navigator John Fraser Leonard – RAF Volunteer Reserves

VOT: An excellent Vote of thanks was delivered by Brian Blanchflower who has known Ian and worked beside him for years.

Rotary Club of Dunfermline Weekly Meeting.

Thursday 20 November 2025.

Members: 24

Guests: 3. Alastair McCallum (Speaker), Brian Mitchell (ADG),

Graham McFarlane (brother of Keith)

President Ronnie welcomed 24 members and 3 guests to our weekly meeting.

Three full tables…

TFTD was presented by Keith McFarlane.

Keith gave a thoughtful and nostalgic reflection on growing up in Dunfermline, although his family are from Edinburgh. Of being a lifelong Hearts fan and feeling the connection between the football club of today and the Club’s history which is intertwined with the McCrae Battalion and their fortunes.

The McCrae Battalion is the topic from tonight’s Speaker.

Keith finished with a recital of a wartime poem, on the topic of “losing your mates”.

Business and Social.

Ronnie reported and asked Members to report on items of business and interest.

· Santa Dash (16 Nov)

o Ian Wilson offered thanks to Graham Steedman and John Sim for organising the event this year, he went on to thank all other members who were able to support the day.

o Ian went on to describe the success of the event, once again a great event with (this year) over 180 “dashers” (no mention of dancers or prancers).

o The publicity online and in The Courier has been excellent, giving a healthy boost to the Club’s profile.

· Gavel first round contest – planned for Wed 26th November – event cancelled after Perth Club pulled out of the race.

o If you had a note in your calendar for this – now you’re free.

o Keith McFarlane will advise the team when a new date and venue has been established

· Couples’ Cheese and Wine evening Friday 28th November (Juniper)

o Andrew advised that this event is sold out, members should arrive at 18.45hrs to enable a quick start to the evening.

· Christmas Lunch (7 Dec)

o Over 80 tickets sold, still some availability.

o Payment for most tickets has been received; Andrew Watson asked that unpaid members cough up the cash ASAP.

· Royal Marines Band Concert (10/11 Dec)

o Ticket sales have stalled slightly after a healthy start.

o Thursday 11th is almost sold out,

o Wednesday 10th still has plenty of availability

o Brian Blanchflower asked that all members try to sell a few more tickets and, for those who have not paid yet, it’s time to pony-up.

· Program note. Dr James Robson (Medical officer for SRU) is our guest speaker on the evening of Thursday 4th December (GHH).

o Brian Blanchflower asked that, as this is expected to be a well-attended talk, for members to let him know if you are / are not planning to attend and if you are bringing guests with you. This will enable us to have the optimum-sized room for the evening

· Burns Supper (29 Jan)

o Jim Leggat is managing the Burns Supper with a good response for tickets.

o Jim has all speakers in-place except for someone to deliver the Toast to the Lassies. Anyone who is willing to give it a try, or who knows someone who is, please talk to Jim ASAP.

· The Big Fat Quiz 2026 will be held at The Canmore House Bar and Restaurant, Canmore Street Dunfermline, on Thursday 8th January.

o The quiz has been organized and will be hosted by Jim Miller. Those wishing to take part please let Jim know ASAP so he can finalise numbers and menu choices.

o Two course meal costing £30pp, 7pm start for meal followed by quiz.

o This is always a good event, and members are encouraged to come along

o If nothing else, it will pull you out of hibernation for a few hours…

· New Business items (2)

· 1. Foodbank Van Dash-Cams

o Dunfermline Foodbank has asked if the Club would be interested in contributing to the cost of fitting Dash-Cams in the two Foodbank vans.

o This follows a few “near misses” over recent months so the Foodbank Team are keen to enhance the safety of the vehicles.

o Halfords have submitted a competitive quote of £350 to fit out both vehicles, our options to donate:

§ Donate £350 meeting the full cost of the fit-out.

§ Invite The Foodbank to use £350 of the £1,380 recently donated from the Club for food purchases

§ Do nothing

o Adoption of the first option (£350 to cover the full cost) was proposed by Brian Blanchflower and seconded by John Haxton, this was agreed with a unanimous show of hands.

o Funds to be transferred ASAP.

o Foodbank Trustee (A. Mutter) has been advised.

· 2. “Secret Santa” with Carlton Bingo

o A request has come from RGB&I for support in the distribution of Toys, donated to Carlton Bingo, out to deserving Children’s charities

o The request has been fielded by Brian Mitchell who gave a brief description of the task to the club

§ Visitors to Carlton Bingo are invited to buy a toy and donate it to the Bingo club

§ Rotarians would then collect those toys and deliver them to a local Children’s charity

§ As there are three active Rotary Clubs in Dunfermline and only one Carlton Bingo location, Brian offered that West Fife Rotary would take the lead on this and engage with our members if extra manpower is required.

§ Brian will keep us advised.

Speaker: Alastair McCallum – “The McCrae’s Battalion”

President Ronnie introduced the evening’s speaker. – Alastair McCallum

· Married with one daughter.

· Politics Honours Degree from Edinburgh University.

· Worked in steel industry and in various fabrication yards in west of Scotland constructing modules for the offshore oil and gas industries where he was responsible for recruitment and industrial relations.

· He spent 20 years at the French owned UIE yard in Clydebank-formerly the John Brown Shipyard-with 2000 employees and then transferred to France to recruit staff for a major infrastructure project for Chad, North Africa.

· Interests

o Current affairs

o Watching sport especially football and cricket, foreign travel.

o Volunteer gardener in The Glen

· Volunteer reader at Dunfermline Sound of the Dunfermline Press for the partially sighted.

· Volunteer at Dunfermline macular Group for the partially sighted.

Alastair delivered a lengthy and detailed talk on the creation of The McCrae Battalion and its brief history during WW1.

Alastair delivered this word-perfectly, names, dates, facts and numbers without notes or any sort of presentation material. A masterful performance from this intelligent and engaging gentleman.

The history of the Hearts Football squad of 1914, joining up to the British army as the core of The McCrae Battalion is noteworthy; Alasdair shone a light on this.

Alastair described George’s early years, born into relative poverty in Aberdeen then moving with his Family to Edinburgh. Finding a job in a local business (haberdashery) George was a successful employee, then store manager, eventually George left to start his own business; hard work drove success which bred further success.

Alastair described George’s middle years and successes:

Joined the Town council where he was able to have an impact on local poverty.

Joined the TA following an interest in The Army.

Became an MP in 1899.

Received a knighthood in 1908.

Retired from the TA in 1912.

Widowed in 1913.

Through all this George had been an avid fan of Hearts Football Club and found himself becoming more engaged with the club and their manager John McCartney.

Alastair then gave a brief history / biography of John McCartney; the other half of the story of how the McCrae Battalion came into being.

In 1914 when the call to arms came, thousands of young (and not so young) men applied to join the army, for the glory or taking part in the war in Europe that would have them “home by Christmas”. Not knowing that it would become known as “the war to end all wars”.

George McCrae wanted the whole of the Hearts Football squad to sign up at the same time and John McCartney was happy to make that happen.

George contacted the ministry for War and said he would raise a Battalion (1000 men) who would be part of the 16th Regiment of the Royal Scots Regiment.

The Hearts squad joined up, as did many of their supporters, then players from other Scottish teams, then their supporters.

George had his thousand volunteers in a matter of days. The Ministry were so impressed they asked if he could make is 1200 men, nae bother.

Over the next few months the battalion trained by day and night and then tried to play football at the weekends. Understandably their performance suffered and what should have been a championship win for Hearts turned into defeat (Celtic won the league that year).

So, the McCrae Battalion went to war.

The first thing they did was learn to dig trenches and live in them. Turns out the Germans were much better at this, been doing it longer perhaps but their organization and care for their troops was much better than the British counterparts.

Then came the fighting, of the 1200 volunteers who signed up in 1914 on 30 were still standing unscathed in 1918.

1st July 1916, The Somme.

In the first day 20,000 British soldiers died and another 40,000 were injured.

On that day 800 McCrea’s’ went over the top, 250 died, another 350 were injured, 200 survived intact. Half the battalion was gone in a single day.

1917 Arras

200 McCrae’s’ killed

1917 Passchendaele

Many killed (numbers unclear)

1918, Battalion disbanded – only 30 of the original volunteers remained.

During the war John McCartney took on the job of communicating the fortunes of the Battalion back to the families at home and to the Football club.

After The Armistice George McCrae stood again for Government office, he became a Liberal MP in 1919 taking his seat at Westminster. In this role he was one of the drivers for the Housing Act of 1919. He was also able to champion the cause of the poor and enact legislation to fight poverty (the poverty he had been subject to as a child).

George McCrae died in 1929; he was followed in 1932 when John McCartney passed.

Alastair concluded his talk with a poem.

This was a different type of talk, thoughtful and poignant.

Alastair received a couple of questions which he was able to answer and enlarge upon. Then a hearty round of applause.

VOT: Vote of thanks was delivered by John Allen.

President Ronnie opened the weekly meeting and welcomed five guests, all along to hear Keith McFarlane’s talk –

Danny McLauchlin, Gary McFarlane Brian Robb, Tom Mitchell & Tom Stuart

TFTD was provided by Ian Morris, who intended to deliver some insights into the recent budget and the lead up fear mongering, but instead opted for some celebrity quotations. Amongst others this one stood out -

Barack and Michelle Obama decide to have a casual dinner at a non-luxurious restaurant. The restaurant owner recognizes Michelle from their teenage years and asks to speak with her privately. After the conversation, Barack asks Michelle why the owner was so interested in talking to her. Michelle reveals they were in love when they were younger. President Obama jokingly remarks, "So if you had married him, you would now be the owner of this lovely restaurant?" Michelle's retort was: "No, if I had married him, he would now be the President of the United States."

David Fraser announced the November draw –

£50 – Andrew Croxford

£30 – Andrew Watson

After last years success at same time of year, David Walker is arranging a Visit to the Scotch Malt Whisky Society on 17th December. So far nine people have signed up, so if you want to come along let David know ASAP dmwalker7@outlook.com

Keith McFarlane confirmed there has been no progress on a new date with our next round opponents in The Gavel. However, this has to be played before end December, so watch for correspondence looking for team members.

Carlton Bingo Christmas Gifts distribution assistance, as reported by Brian Mitcell (ADG) last week - so far, the hall in Dunfermline has received 100 gifts and more are expected. This is too much for West Fife so they are hoping we can assist. Suggestions for recipients would be welcome, so any suggestions to our President please.

Cheese and Wine on Friday evening (tomorrow), please note it is a 6:45pm start. Three tickets have just come available, although one taken already. So, if your available and want to join the fun, please contact Andrew Watson a.watson@watinvest.com

The Burns Night, Jim Leggat is still looking for somebody to give the Toast to The Lassie. Also, numbers are at 50 currently. There is a minimum number for the hall which we are some ways of, and we are aiming for 80 anyway. So please do not delay in letting Jim know if you plan to attend (no payment required now), as without numbers we may need to think again regarding this event, which is one of the highlights of the year. jpleggat26@googlemail.com

Quiz Night on 8th January at The Canmore House is now at 26 names. Two more would help Jim Millar create four teams of seven. jimmillar57@gmail.com

Brian Blanchflower reported the Marine Band Christmas Concert for Thursday 11th December is now sold out. There are still tickets for Wednesday, but you need to be quick. Anyone with unsold tickets please return them to Brian ASAP. brian.blanchflower@btinternet.com

Presentation

President Ronnie gave introduction to Keith McFarlane, a stalwart of our club –

Our golf competitions and outings “groupie”, a proud technophobe, Past President in 2010/11, our skiing supremo and architectural aristocrat!

Keith gave all a presentation using a slide projector (see President’s intro) and as a result lights were out, so the stand-in Secretary could not scribble any notes for non-attendees. However, some quick thinking means I can share something better – pictures of Keiths talk, with the projector and Keith’s head often in shot. Enjoy!

VOT was given by Jim Millar, a former skier, and now a huge admirer of Keith’s extreme skiing.

Thursday 4 December 2025.

Members: 26

Guests: 7. Including Dr James Robson MBE (Speaker) and Mark Todd from West fife club

Required two extra tables including one in the corner facing the wall

TFTD was presented by Ian Morris who recited some funny quotes from celebrities

Business and Social.

Ronnie reported and asked Members to report on items of business and interest.

· Couples’ Cheese and Wine evening Friday 28th November (Juniper)

o A sold out event which was a great success

· Christmas Lunch (7 Dec)

o Over 80 tickets sold.

o Andrew Watson reminded everyone that it was 2pm for a 2.30pm start

· Royal Marines Band Concert (10/11 Dec)

o Thursday 11th is sold out,

o Wednesday 10th approx. 40 tickets remaining

o Brian Blanchflower thanked those who had volunteered to help at the event

· President Ronnie congratulated Sean on his performance at the World senior judo champs held in Paris

· Burns Supper (29 Jan)

o Jim Leggat is managing the Burns Supper with a good response for tickets.

o Jim has all speakers in-place except for someone to deliver the Toast to the Lassies. Anyone who is willing to give it a try, or who knows someone who is, please talk to Jim ASAP.

· The Big Fat Quiz 2026 will be held at The Canmore House Bar and Restaurant, Canmore Street Dunfermline, on Thursday 8th January.

o The quiz has been organized and will be hosted by Jim Miller. Those wishing to take part please let Jim know ASAP so he can finalise numbers and menu choices.

o Two course meal costing £30pp, 7pm start for meal followed by quiz.

o This is always a good event, and members are encouraged to come along

o If nothing else, it will pull you out of hibernation for a few hours…

· Mike Williams circulated a rota sheet for the Santa Xmas collection. A great response from members meant that every slot was covered.

· “Secret Santa” with Carlton Bingo

o A request has come from RGB&I for support in the distribution of Toys, donated to Carlton Bingo, out to deserving Children’s charities

Volunteers required tomorrow (Friday) at 12 noon to help load gifts into the foodbank van and deliver them to the Fife social work for onward distribution. Over 300 presents have been donated. Sufficient volunteers came forward and are being co-ordinated by President Ronnie.

Speaker: Dr James Robson MBE – My Rugby life with Scotland and the British Lions

President Ronnie introduced the evening’s speaker. – Dr James Robson

· GP for 13 years, becoming national team doctor for the SRU in 2002

· Retired in 2024 with a Rugby career spanning 6 world cups with Scotland and 6 Lions tours

· Received his MBE in 2018

James started his talk by saying that he was the first male physio student ever at Queen Margaret so with 33 girls in his year, the physio practice sessions were interesting!

A very interesting and funny talk, James contrasted his early experiences in the amateur game with today`s professional set ups. Today all staff are miked up but he remembered when he used to attend players on the pitch and signal to the coach with two towels – a blue one meant that the player had to come off, whilst the white towel would mean giving the player a few minutes to recover

Contrasting the Lions tour in 1993 when everyone was still an amateur, with the 2005 professional tour, the 1993 one had 36 players; 5 management;1 doctor and 1 physio whilst the 2005 one had 44 players; 28 management; 2 doctors ; 3 physios and 1 masseur

James played several video clips from games with collisions and incidents where he had intervened, the most notable of which was when Thom Evans broke his neck playing for Scotland. It was only due to James and his team that Thom did not die or become paralysed – half a centimetre of movement the wrong way in getting him onto the stretcher would have spelled disaster. Now that Thom is engaged to Nicole Scherzinger, James is hoping for an invite to the wedding.

Most notable moment – David Sole famously walking out the Scotland team to play ( and win) the championship in 1990

Best coach – Ian McGeehan. A great listener

Best Lions tour – 1997 against south Africa where Ian McGeehan got his head shaved after the tour win

Best Captain – Martin Johnston of England

Best opposition hospitality – Argentina

If he had been a player, he would have retired with 284 caps for Scotland. In his final game, the team allowed him to hold the Calcutta Cup for the team photo. A fitting way to end his career.

.

VOT: Vote of thanks was delivered by fellow Physio student and long-term friend, Pip Yeates, who noted the sacrifice he had given to lost family time due to travelling abroad so often, making decisions under pressure and in the camera spotlight,, having the courage to protect players when the pressure was to play them and finally acknowledging the tremendous research James had done into head injuries and dementia.

Overall, a great talk by James followed by a great VOT.

Reports on Events and Meetings

Details of our meetings for the year

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Santa Dash

Christmas Marine Band Concert

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This Year - 2025/26