DIK Movements for  2020/2021

 

ROTARY AUSTRALIA

WORLD COMMUNITY SERVICE LTD

Rear Shed 39, 400 Somerville Road West Footscray VIC 3012

 

 

 

Containers Shipped 2020 -21                                   20’ container units                             

 

 

The previous year we shipped 25 Club and 51 Store container units, but the above is not a true comparison as 4 containers / 6 container units have been ready to be shipped for some time.  There are also 11 containers in the queue, to be shipped as soon as we have the space to prepare and a confirmed shipping date.

 

As last reported shipping goods has become more challenging.  Shipping is slowing down, ports are being bi-passed and containers bookings on ships are being cancelled.   This has significantly reduced our capacity, as any delay in shipping prevents us working on other projects.  It also limits the amount of donations we can accept. 

 

The costs have also risen dramatically.  In December 40’ containers where reasonably easy to obtain and cost $3,500 to buy; today if you can get one its $7,250     Shipping costs and additional charges continue to rise.  It is also difficult to hire containers.

 

The uncertainty is also affecting Club projects, as it influences their planning.  Some of the shipments are designed to be utilized by Project Teams who will visit the country to unload. They can no longer plan their travel because of Covid19. 

 

RAWCS Southern Region is trying to support us, but is getting minimal support from the Districts.  They are advertising for a Regional DIK Coordinator, but there is little interest so far.  The RAWCS system requires the Districts to have a DIK Rep and to report on DIK activity, generally there are no reports and some Districts have no DIK Rep.   I am aware that a space has been allocated for DIK at the AGM in Rowville in August, but we don’t know who will man it.     

 

Promotion Our new video is on our website at the top of the home page.   We had excellent coverage at the Multi District Conference with our video as a major feature and a display.  Sadly the attendance was poor.

 

We were barely mentioned at the D9800 Assembly International Breakout session, but received excellent coverage in the Environmental Sustainability session. 

 

I believe that we will get a greater increase in awareness and support by promoting DIK as an Environmental Sustainably operation, rather than an International Project.  We are encouraging all DIK Inc. Clubs to talk to their Environmental Sustainably Committees if they have one and to see what support they need.

 

David Dippie