Traditionally your New Year’s resolutions are expected to fall by the wayside by about the 15th of January each year. It seems that Peninsula members and guests are the exception to this rule, as we had a bumper first meeting of the year, held on Thursday 28 January at the Tafelberg Tavern.

And if the number of guests who joined up there and then are anything to go by, it looks like Peninsula members will be sticking to their New Year’s resolutions – well the ones to do with improving their presentation and leadership skills in any case.

It was also great to hear three Ice breakers on the evening – I look forward to many more presentations from these speakers.

Remember though, it’s never to late to make a resolution In fact, today is as good a day as any, so why not join us at our next meeting, on Thursday 22 February.

To get you in the mood, here are some pics taken at the January meeting.

Solveig delivers her inspiring Icebreaker speech

Tim delivers yet another excellent evaluation

Ana pays attention

Time keeper Hans also pays attention

Meeting review: Vanessa Clark

Photos: Craig Strachan

A warm welcome to Thomas Bowman, one of Peninsula’s newest members. Proving that public speaking is only one of his skills, here Thomas shares with us a poem about delivery his first speech, known as the icebreaker.

THE FIRST

Words tumble out as thoughts tumble in
trying to write a speech adds paper to the bin!
Planning, practice, hours of toil -
it almost makes me want to boil!

The big night comes and many applaud
as I head up front feeling put to the sword!
The butterflies flood my pounding chest
and the words begin – here goes my greatest test.

As smiling faces receive these heart-felt words
and confidence grows – my butterflies begin to fly like birds.
These Toastmasters really care that you do well!
Madame Toastmaster – my conclusion rings clear as a bell!

I stepped up and delivered my first,
and now I have developed a great thirst!
A thirst for speeches, fun, friendship and caring!
Soon the news headlines will be blaring -

TOASTMASTERS IS THE BEST!!