Well the District 9810 Group Study Exchange has sadly come to an end. After 4 weeks packed with vocational and cultural visits, the "dream team from downunder" bid farewell from Eastbourne, home of District 1130 Conference.
The first Aussie to be deported was Brett (who was put on a plane to Rome for stealing 1 x loaf of bread).
Suhanya was sentenced to another week in London and then a week in Morocco for stealing a packet of ground coffee.
Our fearless leader (Merv), Roger & Kira were all sent back to London from Eastbourne on the train to face their fate. As Merv had led such a great team he was spared deportation and was allowed to be re-united with his lovely wife Kay to tour for another 2 weeks. Roger was sentenced to one evening in London before he was put on a plane to Melbourne, while Kira escaped to Ireland.
And then there were none.........
Thanks to EVERYONE involved for making the 2007/08 Group Study Exchange the best ever. We all look forward to sharing our experiences upon our return. More photos to follow......
Cheers for now.
Merv, Kira, Roger, Suhanya & Brett.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Thursday, October 18, 2007
THANKS TO ALL….
As a team, we would like to thank everyone who has been involved with us over the course of the last 4 weeks (as well as our respective Rotary clubs in Australia and our wonderful friends and family that have read about our amazing journey!!!!). From the host families that have allowed us to enter the homes, to the wonderful coordinators of each area West, North, East & South, right through to those that have taken us into many wonderful tourist and vocational areas and finally to those clubs that have had us speak (and those in attendance on these nights) we are appreciative of everything that you have all done for us. We have seen some amazing things (without you they wouldn’t be possible!!!) and met many wonderful people since being here. As you have read throughout our blog, we have had an outstanding time here and we hope that our district can reciprocate in the same fashion. Thank you again – we look forward to seeing you all in the next few days at District Conference in Eastbourne. Until then………
THE BILL, THE GLOBE & THE AUSSIE
Wednesday:
Our last day in London (as a team anyway) – we headed into Battersea Police Station – where we were met by Rotarians John & Re and past GSE Team members Justin (Pittsburgh 2005) & Andy (Charlotte 2006). Richard gave us a look at what policing is like in their area. We were toured around the station and had the opportunity to discuss both his and Andy’s past experiences with GSE, which was great. Heading out for a bite to eat (and nice ale to wash it down with – or glass of red) we continued our conversations, before having to move (as we had a tour at the Globe theatre – which you may – or should – have heard of).
Before arriving there, Re took us into Somerset House – where a creative display had been set up for London schools.
Arriving at the Globe Theatre, we were toured around as a small group, sitting in a number of areas whilst getting an informative tour of the theatre. It was rich with history and would be a fantastic place to see live theatre (unfortunately for us, the season ended two weeks ago – but we still got to have a look anyway!)
To finish our time off in the south in style, Re took us out to a beautiful restaurant before embarking on another wonderful event – Live Classical Music at Festival Hall (no – it’s not like ours back in Melbourne, about 1000 times classier!!!) It was a fantastic performance – which we all put down to the fact that it was led by an Aussie (can hear all the British that we have met so far laugh very loud at this comment!) – but they know it’s true!
Our last day in London (as a team anyway) – we headed into Battersea Police Station – where we were met by Rotarians John & Re and past GSE Team members Justin (Pittsburgh 2005) & Andy (Charlotte 2006). Richard gave us a look at what policing is like in their area. We were toured around the station and had the opportunity to discuss both his and Andy’s past experiences with GSE, which was great. Heading out for a bite to eat (and nice ale to wash it down with – or glass of red) we continued our conversations, before having to move (as we had a tour at the Globe theatre – which you may – or should – have heard of).
Before arriving there, Re took us into Somerset House – where a creative display had been set up for London schools.
Arriving at the Globe Theatre, we were toured around as a small group, sitting in a number of areas whilst getting an informative tour of the theatre. It was rich with history and would be a fantastic place to see live theatre (unfortunately for us, the season ended two weeks ago – but we still got to have a look anyway!)
To finish our time off in the south in style, Re took us out to a beautiful restaurant before embarking on another wonderful event – Live Classical Music at Festival Hall (no – it’s not like ours back in Melbourne, about 1000 times classier!!!) It was a fantastic performance – which we all put down to the fact that it was led by an Aussie (can hear all the British that we have met so far laugh very loud at this comment!) – but they know it’s true!
BBC – BRETT’S BBC VISIT
Tuesday:
Another day of Vocational visits. Today I headed into the BBC (yes, you did read correctly – letting me anywhere near a stage and camera is dangerous, but into one of the biggest networks around – well…..put it this way – I was well looked after – and yes – well behaved). The lovely Lorraine Dance toured me around (my own private tour!!! Normally reserved for VIP’s……) First we arrived to the Educational area (James Westhead – Education correspondent)– where I was shown the TV studio, working bays, editing facilities – graphics, sound etc (which I later saw the complete cutting to a story) and much more. Being mindful of not taking up too much of each person’s time, we headed over to discuss the CBBC (Stuart Dunn – Senior Content Producer - Children’s BBC) webpage, which has recently undergone a major overhaul and the new website was launched Sep 3rd (off the top of my head!) – With a new interactive interface. We spent quite some time discussing the market research that they undertake, as well as some of the new programs and initiatives that they will be implementing in the coming weeks, months and years.
Before eating we headed up to the News Production Gallery where I witnessed the lead up and the live transmission of the one o’clock news to the UK. It was an amazing experience to see all of this first hand (I wouldn’t imagine too many people would have this opportunity!)
Lorraine then took me for a quick bit to eat before we headed up to meet Rowzat & Ros (Partnership manager - People Production Training & Senior Broadcast Journalist) who was about to present to a group of journalists that undertake a program in schools (new initiative that was brought in by the BBC in 2006 to encourage schools to participate in presenting news items). In cooperation with Secondary schools, the BBC has a number of journalists volunteer their time to work with teachers and students to create a current news item. I had no prior knowledge of the program and it was great to learn about it first hand – something that I will definitely take back with me (and share with the Educational Department!!!)
With time fast running out (we had our final Rotary Presentation to do), we headed up to meet Alison Kempster (Studio Technical Organiser) who gave me an in depth Behind the Scenes look at the equipment and facilities used to produce the program NewsRound. She also gave me a few tips to take back and use at CGPS (my school) on lighting, backgrounds, green screen capabilities and tips to make the set look different. All in all, I was very lucky to have this opportunity!!! (as you can tell, I had an awesome day – and wouldn’t trade it for the world!!!!)
Another day of Vocational visits. Today I headed into the BBC (yes, you did read correctly – letting me anywhere near a stage and camera is dangerous, but into one of the biggest networks around – well…..put it this way – I was well looked after – and yes – well behaved). The lovely Lorraine Dance toured me around (my own private tour!!! Normally reserved for VIP’s……) First we arrived to the Educational area (James Westhead – Education correspondent)– where I was shown the TV studio, working bays, editing facilities – graphics, sound etc (which I later saw the complete cutting to a story) and much more. Being mindful of not taking up too much of each person’s time, we headed over to discuss the CBBC (Stuart Dunn – Senior Content Producer - Children’s BBC) webpage, which has recently undergone a major overhaul and the new website was launched Sep 3rd (off the top of my head!) – With a new interactive interface. We spent quite some time discussing the market research that they undertake, as well as some of the new programs and initiatives that they will be implementing in the coming weeks, months and years.
Before eating we headed up to the News Production Gallery where I witnessed the lead up and the live transmission of the one o’clock news to the UK. It was an amazing experience to see all of this first hand (I wouldn’t imagine too many people would have this opportunity!)
Lorraine then took me for a quick bit to eat before we headed up to meet Rowzat & Ros (Partnership manager - People Production Training & Senior Broadcast Journalist) who was about to present to a group of journalists that undertake a program in schools (new initiative that was brought in by the BBC in 2006 to encourage schools to participate in presenting news items). In cooperation with Secondary schools, the BBC has a number of journalists volunteer their time to work with teachers and students to create a current news item. I had no prior knowledge of the program and it was great to learn about it first hand – something that I will definitely take back with me (and share with the Educational Department!!!)
With time fast running out (we had our final Rotary Presentation to do), we headed up to meet Alison Kempster (Studio Technical Organiser) who gave me an in depth Behind the Scenes look at the equipment and facilities used to produce the program NewsRound. She also gave me a few tips to take back and use at CGPS (my school) on lighting, backgrounds, green screen capabilities and tips to make the set look different. All in all, I was very lucky to have this opportunity!!! (as you can tell, I had an awesome day – and wouldn’t trade it for the world!!!!)
TIME GOES BY....
Monday:
Arriving early at St.George’s Hospital (NHS), we were greeted by Karen and a number of other staff, who gave us an overview of the hospital – facilities, staff, finances etc. Then it was off for a tour of the hospital itself – looking at a number of different wards, artwork and facilities that the hospital had to offer E.g. A & E, Educational facilities for school aged students, religious facilities and much more. We then enjoyed a delightful dinner in the cafeteria.
Leaving the hospital in our wake, we sailed down the Thames on a boat (I know – it sounds like we’re having a very good holiday, rather than a working holiday, but we needed the boat ride in order to get to our next Rotary Club for a presentation – well – we did!) Where was I, that’s right, boat ride. Sailing gently along the Thames taking in all the sights surrounding us – with wonderful commentary from one of the workers, we made our way to Greenwich via the Thames Barrier. Going under London Tower Bridge and jetting past a Navy vessel, we soon found ourselves at Greenwich.John & Ilkay were on hand to meet us (and yes, the delightful Re was with us too!) and tour us around Greenwich. First we headed towards the old Naval Museum before encountering a filming crew, filming a movie that is due for release early 2008 – The Duchess (you read it here first……) Obviously no photos were allowed, but we did try…..Ilkay & John took us on a wonderful walk around the local area, where we were able to see driverless trains (we kid you not!) and then where time begins – with a beautiful view of the city to be had! With time running out, we raced in the car to our next Rotary meeting (Woolwich Rotary Club) held at Charlton Athletic Football (soccer) ground. The team was lucky enough to have a look through one of the corporate boxes at the size of the ground (holds 25,000 roughly) and also undertaking a tour of the trophy room (to the amusement of the crowd).
Arriving early at St.George’s Hospital (NHS), we were greeted by Karen and a number of other staff, who gave us an overview of the hospital – facilities, staff, finances etc. Then it was off for a tour of the hospital itself – looking at a number of different wards, artwork and facilities that the hospital had to offer E.g. A & E, Educational facilities for school aged students, religious facilities and much more. We then enjoyed a delightful dinner in the cafeteria.
Leaving the hospital in our wake, we sailed down the Thames on a boat (I know – it sounds like we’re having a very good holiday, rather than a working holiday, but we needed the boat ride in order to get to our next Rotary Club for a presentation – well – we did!) Where was I, that’s right, boat ride. Sailing gently along the Thames taking in all the sights surrounding us – with wonderful commentary from one of the workers, we made our way to Greenwich via the Thames Barrier. Going under London Tower Bridge and jetting past a Navy vessel, we soon found ourselves at Greenwich.John & Ilkay were on hand to meet us (and yes, the delightful Re was with us too!) and tour us around Greenwich. First we headed towards the old Naval Museum before encountering a filming crew, filming a movie that is due for release early 2008 – The Duchess (you read it here first……) Obviously no photos were allowed, but we did try…..Ilkay & John took us on a wonderful walk around the local area, where we were able to see driverless trains (we kid you not!) and then where time begins – with a beautiful view of the city to be had! With time running out, we raced in the car to our next Rotary meeting (Woolwich Rotary Club) held at Charlton Athletic Football (soccer) ground. The team was lucky enough to have a look through one of the corporate boxes at the size of the ground (holds 25,000 roughly) and also undertaking a tour of the trophy room (to the amusement of the crowd).
JOIN IN THE CHORUS AND SING IT ONE AND ALL
Sunday:
This morning we headed into Royal Hospital Chelsea, which is a fascinating place. The people that reside there are war veterans who conduct tours, run services and share their stories with a number of visitors. We were fortunate enough to have Derek Whiting take us around (a Rotarian) who was very passionate about the place. The team was also involved in a church ceremony, where we were able to listen to a very professional choir sing a number of hymns.
Derek had then organised for us to meet at the National Army Museum for lunch, where we had another huge meal (if we keep eating like this – we’ll end up like the 10 pound poms, but not in the financial sense!) Having a quick look around the museum, we headed back to our hosts for a relaxing afternoon.
This morning we headed into Royal Hospital Chelsea, which is a fascinating place. The people that reside there are war veterans who conduct tours, run services and share their stories with a number of visitors. We were fortunate enough to have Derek Whiting take us around (a Rotarian) who was very passionate about the place. The team was also involved in a church ceremony, where we were able to listen to a very professional choir sing a number of hymns.
Derek had then organised for us to meet at the National Army Museum for lunch, where we had another huge meal (if we keep eating like this – we’ll end up like the 10 pound poms, but not in the financial sense!) Having a quick look around the museum, we headed back to our hosts for a relaxing afternoon.
WOW WEMBLEY WOW
Saturday:
This was the day that we were to change hosts – except for Brett – who was fortunate enough to head into Wembley Stadium to watch England play Estonia in the Euro Cup Qualifiers (courtesy of Melvin – who had willingly donated a ticket to the team – which was then raffled off – resulting in me going!) A huge crowd gathered at the stadium (86,000 fans, chanting and singing English songs). I was privileged to have this opportunity – and the seats were amazing……I OWE YOU BIG TIME MELVIN!!!! The game was fantastic, well, if you were an English supporter – as they won 3-0.
After the game we were all sent to Re’s house, where we were to meet our new hosts – then subjected to watching England win the Rugby, ok ok ok, we loved it and supported England, but only because they were playing the French!
This was the day that we were to change hosts – except for Brett – who was fortunate enough to head into Wembley Stadium to watch England play Estonia in the Euro Cup Qualifiers (courtesy of Melvin – who had willingly donated a ticket to the team – which was then raffled off – resulting in me going!) A huge crowd gathered at the stadium (86,000 fans, chanting and singing English songs). I was privileged to have this opportunity – and the seats were amazing……I OWE YOU BIG TIME MELVIN!!!! The game was fantastic, well, if you were an English supporter – as they won 3-0.
After the game we were all sent to Re’s house, where we were to meet our new hosts – then subjected to watching England win the Rugby, ok ok ok, we loved it and supported England, but only because they were playing the French!
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