Toastmasters reaches milestone

DANDENONG Ranges Toastmasters is marking its 15th anniversary with a special meeting and is inviting past members and guests to celebrate.
Inaugural president and club member Stephen Forrest still enjoys speaking and mentoring others in the craft after 15 years.
Mr Forrest returned to study as a mature aged engineering student and has made more than 1100 jumps as a skydiving instructor.
He was a founding member of Dandenong Ranges Toastmasters club with Ian Johnston.
Present president, Paula Ewington, said participants had much to gain.
“Public speaking is one of the most confronting things anyone can do, but it’s a huge thrill to get up in front of people and talk,” she said.
The club has been an inspiration to many people from all walks of life, who have been drawn together by their desire to master public speaking.
Local musician John MacDonald is a past member, as is retired scientist and poet Jan Rebgetz.
Both were inspired to start other groups as a result of their Toastmasters experience. Librarian and author, Andrew Barclay, and teacher, Ron Thomas, are among many club members who have developed their Toastmasters skills professionally and created new career pathways.
The club provides a safe, friendly atmosphere in which to practice speaking and leadership skills and to acquire knowledge about how to run effective meetings.
“The experience is an amazing confidence builder,” Paula said.
The 15-year anniversary meeting is on 20 May at 7.30pm, which will include drinks and nibbles.
“You can just pop in or stay for the whole evening,” Paula said.
“You can even give a quick speech if you’re game.”
Dandenong Ranges Toastmasters meets at 7.30pm on the first and third Wednesday of most months at Kallista Mechanics Institute Hall next to the CFA in Kallista.
For more information, phone Paula on 0431 633 913.