The best week of my life

2008-04-21T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hey there RYLArians of District 9650

Well what can I say but THANK YOU. Thank you to Craig, Ivanna, and Joy for the great program and fun times that we had over the last week. THANK YOU to Rian, Simmo ( We will, we will, BOX YOU), Flugel and Sally for the ENTHUSIASM that you guys hadf over the week and thanks for the fun times also. Finally to the fellow RYLArians, THANK YOU for making my week so special.

A big thanks to The Cookie Theif master, John Carroll for his interesting and eye-opening topics that were covered in 5 Steps to BRAND new. The topics that i learnt in this section was amazing and I will defineatley be using them in my day-to-day job.

A thanks to Kate for the great tips about bookings. These topics will be used in my work as I look after our bookings for venue use that come through the PCYC.

Thanks to Wendy for the great stress relief topics that we learnt. I will definately be using these.

Thanks to David for the great microphone techniques and laughs with the great words that he said and those that we could not here when he steped away from the microphone.

Another thanks to the fabulous Joy for her great talk about ROTARY and what she got out of it. I will definately be thinking about joing ROtary in my later years.

If I forgot to mention you I do apologise but you guys were also a great talker and the topics that i learnt will always help me in my work and leadership roles.

My last thanks goes out to my fellow RYLArians. THANK YOU for your support and friendship that i have reieved from you guys.

I hope that we can keep in touch with each other as networking is one of the great things that leadership can dio for us. Remember, it is not what you know but WHO you know.

The last week was by far one of the best weeks of my life and I would like to thank everyone for allowing me to share this with you guys. You guys have so much potential and I would like to wish you guys all the best for the future with all your dreams and aspirations that you hold. Rember to shoot for the stars. You have the ability to do anything that you aspire to and I know that you can do it. I look forward to seeing you all in two months at our reunion.

Peace out guys and keep it real. Shoot for the stars and you will acheive your dreams.

CIao

Ayman Barbaresco
Coffs Harbour Rotary

I suppose it's unfair to do this, but...

2008-04-20T03:27:00.000-07:00

I'm going to make one more contribution to this blog, even though I'm fairly certain I shouldn't. (This post will most be a response to all the posts made by the leaders.)

I, on behalf of the 2008 RYLArians, would like to thank Craig, Ivana and Joy, who ran RYLA '08 wonderfully, even if everything didn't quite go according to plan. To Natalie (Flugel), Sally, Simon (Simmo), and Rian, the team leaders, you have been inspirational to us all, and a shoulder when we needed it; we thank you for all your help.

Finally, on a personal note, I would love to thank and congratulate all the RYLArians who attended this year (you all know who you are). The experience has been absolutely marvellous, as I'm sure you would agree. I hope that some of you do make it back as leaders for RYLA '09.

Congrats, and well done!

James Burling
RYLArian, Rotary Tamworth

Extra books

2008-04-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

I forgot to include in my last post the two books I had with me on Friday:

"Purple Cow" (Seth Godin)
"When They Zig You Zag" Siimon Reynolds (and yes, Siimon is with 2 i's - I guess that's one way of differentiating yourself)

Best wishes again
John

Greetings Cookie Thieves!

2008-04-18T21:05:00.000-07:00

I have to say, first of all, a very big congratulations to Craig, Ivana, Joy, the team leaders and all the Rotarians who put together what was obviously a FANtastic week! Then, a very big congratulations and thank you to all the 08 Ryalarians - I have seldom had the privelage of speaking to such a positive, enthusiastic, wonderful group of people. The level and standard of particpation was brilliant, which made my role so much easier. Thank you all again.

I just want to give you a quick reminder (so you don't forget in the excitement of getting home)about how to stay on track, then I'll list some of the material I suggested you take a look at:

Please, please, please (!!!) review and update your notes from the week within the next 24 hours, then at least weekly for the next three weeks, monthly for the next 3 months, then at least every year. That's the way to get and stay on track.
Put the projects you came up with on Friday afternoon (and any others) into your weekly plan and schedule time to do something towards them daily, or at least regularly. Remember, like the plane on auto-pilot, you'll frequently get blown off course. It's important to keep correcting your direction so you end up at the right destination. But also remember, the direction you want to head in is more important than how you will get there. The first and most important thing, is to have a direction!

Speaking of that, I was watching my DVD of The Secret again this morning and a few things really jumped out at me:

Your purpose should be to find what it is that brings you joy and fulfilment. Your mission is to spend your life living that.
Your job is not to change the world, but rather to be the best you can be. If you can do that, you will have a very major impact on the world, in whatever way is right for you.

Here's a brief list of recomended reading / viewing / listening (put CD's in your car, remember!):

"The Secret" (Rhonda Byrne) - DVD / book / CD. (BRILLIANT, A MUST FOR EVERYONE!)
"The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" (Stephen Covey) - Book / CD (Also lots of follow-on Covey material, but look at the original 7 Habits one first)
"Awaken the Giant Within" (Tony Robbins) - Book / CD (There's also plenty of other Robbins material -find something that looks interesting. It's real motivational stuff and all very well presented.)
"How to Get What you Really, Really, Really Really Want" or "Your Erroneous Zones" (both by Dr Wayne Dyer) - Book / CD. (He has a whole range of pretty philosphical, but I think fascinating, work. Find anything that appeals to you.)

That's probably enough to keep you busy for a while, but contact me if you want more. I'm more than happy to help.

Finally, may I wish you all the very best for a bright and hugely successful future, whatever that means to you. Please contact me if you'd like to, on john@johncarroll.com.au.

Cheers and best wishes.

John Carroll

Chief Cookie Thief

Flugels amazing week at RYLA go stompedoes!!

2008-04-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hey there cubies! I have just had the most amazing week! I went to ryla as a rylarian in 2007 which was its last year in armidale. To be invited back this year in 2008 as a leader was just amazing! It was hard work but i enjoyed every second of it. Even if i was chucking a fit to get them all to bed on time lol! I would like to thank my team the Stompedoes! and elephant bus as it were...... hmmm. To Stacey Clarke i knew you from tafe but i have gotten to know you so much better this week your courage inspires me and i look forward to seeing you next week as we return to study. Shaun Fraser you amazed me so much this week you were very quite in the begining but i am so happy to see you enjoying yourself more and yes on ocasion i did get you to smile you still owe me a nick name pally! Shandelle Watson your kind nature was a real joy in our team im so glad you are more confident now and i enjoyed your compony. Rhana Hobson your a bubble of joy always having a laugh and you enlightened us upon your fustrations... James Burling your unique and were always up for a chalenge you were never afraid to get in there and have a go. Isaac Sesay you charmed the ladys wih your poems and danceing ou are so spiritual and love to help your fellows in anyway you can. Hollie Young you have gained confidence and worked hard this week you wernt shy to share your ideas and you kick ass on the dance floor. Damien Jackson you are an inspiration to us all joy wants to take you home your fun loving kind and helpful to everyone around you and i see your light touch everyone you meet. Quinton Wilkinson you have been a rock for alot of your team mates not afraid to call it like you see it honest and kind but you can be a trouble maker sometimes:P. and lastly to Kathryn Charlier you are a crazy fun smart women with i need to lift everyone around you i have had so much fun watching you grow and i just think your swell! I couldnt of asked for a better team and also to all the other rylarians too i will remember this week for the rest of my life and i am so glad to have shared this with you all. thank you so much. Flugel

Atlantas Blog

2008-04-18T15:46:00.000-07:00

This week as been an amazing journey for everyone. Everyone has been so supportive of each other and we have made friendships that will last forever. I want to thank everyone for making this week possible and so success full and with out each other this week wouldnt have been the same. The week has now come to the end and i have a completely different attitude from when i first arrived here. I came with no idea what to expect only that i would have the opportunity to make new friends. I never expected to become apart of a group that is so wonderfu. the support, respect and loyalty from everyone is what brought us together. I have made friendships that i will have for a lifetime. I have learnt so much from all our speakers and activities.
Thankyou to everyone!!!!
this week has been amazing and its all because of you!

Bec Brady

2008-04-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

Well hello cyber space!
Its saturday morning and its all over! This week has had it's ups and downs, but it has been fun from day one. To watch people transform and grow has been a true and unique experience. From movie and poker night to kareoke and a newspaper ball, there hasn't been a dull moment. The seminars have been great and i know everyone has taken a whole new look on life and ourselves. there are too many people to mention, however the leaders have to take a bow for their support and ENTHUSIASM this week. (applause) It has been a wonderfully unique experience and we have only each other to thank.
Cheers from the big house
Bec Brady

2008-04-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone Jessie G here,

This experience has been truly amazing. I have learnt so much and hopefully passed on a few things to other people as well. The highlight for me would be being completly out of my comfort zone, feeling a little insecure but realising that the best quality anyone can ever have is truly being themselves. This enviornment is the most encouraging and supportive ever. I would reccomend RYLA to anyone especially if you need a confidence boost. I have made some awesome friends that I will definatley keep in contact with.
It's time now to back my bags and go home and treasure the many memories that I made here at RYLA 08.
Cheers,
Jess...

2008-04-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone Cameron here

My experience at ryla has been amazing i have learnt so much like gettin up in front of a big crowd workin in groups and workin as a teams. It got me out t of my comfort zone meeting new people and making new friends everybody is so supportive and willing to help thanks guys.

Rian Loves RYLA 2008

2008-04-18T06:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Rian here,

It's Friday night and everyone has just wound down and started to hit the sack, the clamor of the day has all but ceased and I can only feel sad that -for all the lack of sleep, long days and late nights- this is actually over.

For a week we had our own world and wasn't it amazing? To go from stranger to life long friends within a week is both a pleasure and a gift -that I will always always treasure.

I'm just so immensely proud of the progress that I have seen both in my team and amongst the group as a whole.

Some of the more memorable moments for me were being asked to the dinner on wednesday on live air, and Ivana's prank on Craig. Also my teams amazing effort on Wednesday night with the rotary dinner -you all totally amazed me with your enthusiasm and commitment to pulling off a great night!

It has also been so amazing and encouraging to see the way that everyone has so totally embraced the RYLA experience and the way in which everyone has made such a concerted effort to really stretch themselves and pursue greater leadership skills and new friendships.

I wish I had better and more profound parting words to share with you all but really I just want to let you all know how much I've loved this experience and how much it has surpassed even my highest expectations. I came filled with hope and anticipation and I will leave having those hopes entirely fulfilled.

I'd like to give a special thanks to Joy, Craig and Ivana for all of their input and encouragement I really appreciate all of your efforts.

I'd also like to thank you RYLARIANS you amazed and impressed me constantly.

P.s Nice work Ivana on Craigs sheets!

With Greatest Respect and Love,

Rian,

xoxoxox

Leaders Appreciation - Sally

2008-04-18T06:47:00.000-07:00

Hello to all readers,

Its Sally Randall here, one of this years mad, crazy, warn out leaders for RYLA 2008!
I am from Gloucester, and attended RYLA in 2007 at Armidale. I believed that my week at RYLA as a Rylarian was the best week of my life until I attended RYLA this week as a leader at Bonny Hills. I believe that not only has my experience as a leader helped me to expand on my leadership skills, it has also helped to realise that as an individual I am reaching more and more of my goals everyday.

The real appreciation of becoming a leader for me was the 53 Rylarians that I helped to lead, grow and hopefully inspire this week. We had a great bunch of people that attended and without each and every one, this week wouldn't have been the same. Everyone has such different personalities and they each have contributed to the week in different ways. Some people from the group were so quiet and unknown of their abilities and the further that the week has gone on they are surprising me more and more. For example one person in my group was so quiet and shy at the start of the week and you never heard them say boo but tonight at the talent quest they are going to be singing solo and this makes me so happy to know that i have been able to help this people even if it was only one person that i was able to help, then i consider my job complete!!

Ivana (AKA Drama Queen of RYLA) this is for you!!!
I couldn't have done this week without you! You had no idea who i was or even if i was an axe murderer and you took a chance on me! And i thank you so much for this opportunity and i hope that i have fulfilled my leadership requirements! I now consider you as a friend and a mentor and am grateful for you kind words of wisdom over the past week.

It can't go unmentioned the other mad, crazy and warn out team leaders Rian, Simon and Natalie. Each one of you have different ways of using your leadership skills and i hope that i can take a little bit of each of you to make me a better person and to improve my own leadership skills. Also i can't forget Craig & Joy this week you have made me feel so welcome have definitely given us all a laugh!

Overall it has been a fantastic week one that both Rylarians and Leaders will never forget!!!

Thank you Everyone
Sally xoxoxo

Quinton's Amazing Blog 2008

2008-04-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

Well everyone what a week it has been... Friday night and im stuffed... There is no way anyone could have prepared me for this week at RYLA 2008.

Arriving on saturday morning i was very tired and unsure of what to expect from not only the program but also who was going to be here!!! Walking up to the conference centre, checking in my bags and walking out into the court yard i looked around to find someone i could relate to... the rest is history...

The seminars, activities and programs that have been ran over the past week have not only broaden my understanding of leadership but have also allowed me develop some special relationships with the people around me, especially in my team "The Stompedoes".

The most enjoyable moments for myself would have been when we undertook hiphop dancing lessions, putting the tent up activity and the sensual dancing lessions that Rian took us through. The dancing lessions were great in that they broke up the structure abit while also learning how to move our hips (thanks Rian). The tent activity really showed how far we had come as a team from the saturday before when we hardly knew each other to an effective efficient team whereby everyone knew when to lead and when to allow someone else to take charge which allowed us to put the tent up in a record time.

The most memorable moment for myself however, would be witnessing the other people in RYLA 2008 developing and opening up to show their true colours and talents. Watching people like Shandelle, Stacey, Nic and Caine and many others getting up and talking in front of 50+ people will be the thing i remember the most. Having the opportunity to help these people and learn from them is by far the most enjoyable part of my week.

I would like to thank everyone who participated, the organisers and team leaders for the help and guidance over the past week. I have not only learnt so much from the program but also formed some amazing friendships with the people here. I am already excited about seeing you all in the near future and wanted to thank you all for your friendship, kindness and ENTHUSIASUM over the past week.

To those of you out there who decide to come to RYLA 2009, come with an open mind, don't be afraid to try something new and you will have the greatest week of your life. A quote that one of the Rylarians mentioned over the duration of the week that i will remember is...

"Its not the destination, but the journy that counts"

Thankyou to all the Rylarians 2008. All the best for the future and whatever it is that you undertake, im already looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

Quinton Wilkinson (RYLA 2008)

my journey of ryla

2008-04-18T04:58:00.000-07:00

to be frank i had no idea what my purpose at ryla was, but like many journeys you learn many things.....
i learnt that listening is a quality to adopt in life as you can learn so many things from many people. the people here have influenced me so much that they themselves are just as much as lecturers as john carroll and kate wood-foy to name a few yet one word keeps running through my mind and that is enthusiam ETHUSIAM i have learnt that this can change ur approach on anything u wish to tackle and also change who you are. im at a stage where i dont wont to leave here as i have created so many great bonds that shall last me a lifetime. i would like to say everyone had an great influence on me with little smiles and i would like to make special mention to Brooke and Alysse who constantly show positives in life and are great role models to myself. and also aurora she is so talented and her transformation here is amazing. bravo girl!
i have learnt so many things here at ryl that cant be taught in textbooks and teachers at school they are shown be example so special thank you to the ryla comitee and leaders u guys ROCK
qualities of leadership include patience and communication. i have developed patience and i have also developed in communcation skills hence staying up till 3 in the morning chatting away.....

i would love to thank ryla commitee for this journey and once again the rylaians for shaping me for the future.
love you all
zoe

Simmo regarding the Awesome week

2008-04-18T04:28:00.000-07:00

G'day
Getting asked to come back as a leader this year was a great feeling in itself, but to be able to guide the 2008 RYLARIAN newbies through their well thought out program was exceptional.
Witnessing and being apart of this life changing experience, this time from another perspective I couldn't ask for anything more, besides to be asked back for next years R.Y.L.A week.
The enthusiasm and intelligence of all of these gifted youth is outstanding in many different ways, and is very inspiring.

Signing out with my best wishes to all of you and good luck in your chosen future.

Simmo (LBK leader) Yeh LBK

2008-04-18T04:17:00.000-07:00

WOW..... :-D
What a FANTASTIC time I have had at RYLA 2008.
My name is Alysse Iverson and I just want to thank Taree North Rotary club for sponsoring me and all the Rotarians in district 9650 for this wonderful experience and for the chance to be part of this awesome programme. I have really learnt so much about being a leader and also that being a leader is not only leading but being able to follow as well.
I cannot express how much thanks I have for our OUT OF THIS WORLD leaders who have stuck it out to the end with all of us.
Craig aka Swifty, Ivana, Joy, Sally (Best leader ever-leader of Wanted...whooo haaa!) :), Rian, Simon and Natalie have taught us, cried with us and laughed with us and most importantly lead us.
The start of the week there were 53 awardees that were not so sure what to expect or what would happen and it is now Friday night and you would think that we all knew each other from way back :).
I have grown so much from this experience and learnt so much from my fellow Rylarians aka good mates for life. I would like to say thanks to you ALL for teaching me new things and inspiring me to become a better person and leader. You have all instilled something different into my life from this week and I will be sure when I go back home to use the skills in my community and life.
The speakers who came to talk to us were really fantastic and I want to thank each and every one of them for teaching us new skills and giving us new information on all kinds of topics.
May you all stay safe and happy in all you do Class of 2008 Rylarians and GO FOR IT! oooozzzze that enthusiasm you now are all filled with :) WORRRD :-D

God bless you all lots of love and prayers,
Alysse Iverson.
AIverson
p.s my email : lil_ivo87@hotmail.com

Brooke's Blog

2008-04-18T03:01:00.000-07:00

Hi All!
What can I say? what an amazing week I have had here at the RYLA Leadership Awards 2008. Words cant describe the experience this week has brought for me! The sporting activities including touch football, basketball, hip hop dance lessons, rope courses, treasure hunts and boxing just to name a few- have been thoroughly enjoyable. However, I have definately got a few sore muscles from all of these activities! The varied range of workshops and discussions have been inspirational, informative and interesting and I have gained something from each one. A highlight from the week has definately been the RYLA dinner held on wednesday night. The antbus team really worked so well together in order to get everything done and make the night a success. Despite nearly burning the place down (a couple of times) it was an incredibly successful night, and as each of the RYLA crew got together for a dance at the end of the night, I began to realise just how special this experience has been for each and every one of us. From the extremely confident to the shy and softly spoken, each of us have gained some vital skills, knowledge and information to empower us for our future endevours and help us to be good leaders. Finally, I would like to say thank you to all of the leaders- Craig, Ivana, Joy, Rian, Simon, Sally and Flugel- thanks very much for all of your organisation, planning, late nights and patience with all of us- you have made the experience one we will never forget. I am already looking forward to our reuninion when i can see all of my ryla friends again!
Regards
Brooke Spokes
Rylarian, 2008

2008-04-18T01:46:00.000-07:00

Hey All,
Today i've been asked to write a blog about my experiences at RYLA.
You'll have to bare with me though as this is my first time blogging.
Well today is my last full day here at Bonny Hills and i must say it has
been one hectic week. We have been busy with various lectures throughout the days
from some of the most amazing business people within the Mid North Coast region.
These lecturers have given all of us here including myself some interesting knowledge
to take back home.
Along with all of this we have had outdoors activities including one very fun treasure hunt
run by the 'wanted' team, which was so funny to watch. The winning team of this challenge
was 'Antbus 2' as well as the best dressed winners.
We have also had a hip hop dance class that worked us out firmly and left us in a layer of sweat.
It was so good to learn another genre of dance, although i am paying for it today with some tight
leg muscles.
For those who are reading this and are early birds there would be something for you too, with early morning runs to the
beach and a game of touch footy once we get there. Now for a person who doesn't really like early mornings i quite enjoyed
it, even the game of footy.
Night time activities have been very interesting to say the least, with theme nights like karoke, newspaper ball as well as a slave auction.
Of course this was all in the name of fundraising and fun. On wednesday night we had the big dinner were over 150 rotarians and rylarians
attended, the night went off without a hitch thanks to the host group 'Antbus'. That night we managed to raise enough money to bring our total to just
under $4000. This allowed out 2008 RYLA group to purchase a total of 3 shelter boxes.
The week has been so much fun and i encourage others to attend of given the chance. You will learn lessons of life and take a journey
with others, i know personally that i have learnt a lot from this camp and have also made some great friends!
RYLA 2008
Courtney Stewart & Stephen Coombes

2008-04-18T01:37:00.001-07:00

Hi All

My name is Carissa Graham, and I am proud to say I am part of
the RYLA program 2008. Its been a busy week, with lots
of great experiences and lots of great friends, but more specifically,
I want to let everyone know about the Shelter Box challenge, which has
been held over the past week.

For those of you who do not know, a Shelter Box is a tool
used to help those affected by natural disasters or any situation, or where
people are in need. It is a large box, which contains a 10 person tent, Multipurpose cooker,
cooking utensils, sleeping bags, radio, kids fun packs, water purification tablets etc.
The RYLA teams were told at the beginning of camp that by the end of the week,
we would need to attempt to erect the tent, from the start to finish, as quick as possible
and the winning team would be awarded a prize.

The first team to attempt to erect the shelter box was my own team
"Wanted" (Who Ha) who managed to erect the shelter box tent in
17 minutes, which was a great effort on our part, considering
we had no idea what to expect.

Antbus was the next team to take on the challenge, and
came up with a super fast time of 15 minutes!
Stompedos followed on, crushing "Antbus' " time
by only using 9 minutes 30 seconds, but the most impressive of the shleter box erection
was the final attempt by LBK, who came up with an absolutley awesome time
of 7 minutes 10 seconds, which is the new record!

Overall it has been a jam-packed week, with lots of activites
and fun, and as the week draws to an end, it has become clear that the week
has been successful in all aspects of everything RYLA stands for.

Joy's blog

2008-04-18T00:59:00.000-07:00

at 74 years of age I felt that there would be no more highs in my life, no things to amaze me, no great loves to warm my heart but then I was asked to assist 52 RYLARians & help keep things real. Oh what highs, what amazment, oh to love 52 people. I do not expect in my lifetime to top this and I will be a long time coming down from the height that these Rylarians have taken me to. To watch your talent, your kindness to each other (and to me) your participation is everything that was put to you makes me realise that this country of ours is in safe hands. I can only wish you all everything wonderful that life has to offer. Take it with both hands and enjoy. I love you all very much and for one week you made an old blonde feel special!

What an Experience!!

2008-04-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

I have had what I would consider to be a fairly charmed life. I have a beautiful wife, an extraordinary marriage, wonderful children and a successful career, all of which has taken a great deal of time and dedication. However nothing had prepared me for the impact of RYLA. I took on the job of Chairperson back in August 2007 and with a great team we put together a programme for our awardees. To see the growth of these people has been an incredible experience and one that I will never forget. As a leader, it is my job to 'enable' other people and to allow people to find their voice and looking at the class of 2008, I think we have achieved this. I cannot speak highly enough of the awardees for 2008, they are all extraordinary people who will go on to great things...the future of our nation is in good hands. I thank all the participants for their contributions and for making this RYLA such a success...including raising enough money for 3 x Shelter Boxes...truly unbelievable !!
Regards,
Swifty (Craig Swift-McNair)

RYLArians - You have inspired me - Ivana

2008-04-17T20:57:00.000-07:00

I feel very privildged - rarely in ones life do you have an opportunity to spend an entire week with such an enthusiastic, energetic, creative, and motivated group of young people.
I have had this honour. I witnessed the courage, determination and the willingness to step out of comfort zones, I saw the fears and the tears. Strangers becoming friends, people helping others - "lifting whilst they climbed", those who struggled were comforted and supported by others. This provided a safe and nuturing environment for all to grow and even make some mistakes. I thank you for helping others and allowing the opportunity for others to shine - a mark of great leadership.
I have had the best time, and I have also learnt so much from you -Thank you!
Ivana

2008-04-17T20:15:00.001-07:00

you are not a leader unless u are williing to get your hands dirty. that is wat hit me the most....

jimmy

My RYLA Experience

2008-04-17T00:13:00.000-07:00

Hi my name is Kathryn Charlier, and I'm a nursing student from Armidale, NSW. This is my RYLA experience:
RYLA 2008 has been the best experience. I have learnt a wealth of knowledge that I will use constantly throughout my life. I have done many leadership activities in the past including attending the Global Young Leaders Conference in Vienna, Prague and Budepest in 2005, but I have learnt so much more at RYLA, and RYLA was extremely well balance with just as many active team activities as well as the academic and theory side of leadership. For example, putting up a tent as a team and timing it to see how fast we could do it; this reflects how efficiently we can work as a team. RYLA was heaps of fun, I have had surfing and Hip-hop lessons, and also sung karaoke (which was a little scary) and so many other activities that allow us to relax, and unwind but also put our leadership into practice.
This camp has also taught us all how to bond with new people and allow intraverted people to speak up and become more actively involved.
RYLA 2008 will always be a memorable experience in my life.

Karina's update on Day 6

2008-04-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

Howdy! My name is Karina and I'm a 24 year old accountant from Armidale.

Today is Day 6 (Thursday) of our RYLA experience. After a HUUUUUGE night at the Rotary Dinner we all struggled out of bed for an early brekkie at 7:30am. Pancakes and maple syrup yummo!

We were packed into a bus and taken off on a mystery trip towards Port Macquarie. Oh and by the way, it was pouring rain.

We arrived down at the Town Green where we were given instructions to split into our teams (Go Antbus!) and find answers to particular questions about the area and the breakwall. It was still pouring rain.

Antbus (yeah wooh!) and LBK took off together down towards the wharf whilst Wanted and Stompedos went off in search of answers.

The first group found ourselves boarding a wonderful tour boat with lounges and plush red cushions. It was great! Except... it was still pouring rain.

After that we set off on our own quest for answers, except it was still pouring so we decided to wait out the rain at Starbucks (mmmmm... white choc mocha and a ginger bread man...). Here we split into 3 random groups and each performed a nursery ryhme complete with actions, to the amusement of staff and other customers.

The rain stopped and the sun came out! Oh yay! We headed out along the breakwall. The tide was ripping out and the swell was rolling in. This was a great time for photographs and stomping in puddles (hehehe...).

Special mention must go to Maddy, Tim and Ally who each sat on a rock that had wet paint on it. We left the breakwall with a few red faces and red backsides (hahaha!).

After some lunch and a scenic drive back to Bonny Hills we all had a much deserved rest before hip hop classes began. Those not having a go at hip hop are busy preparing their newspaper outfits for tonight's fun and games.

That's the wrap up for today so far!

Now for a few words on RYLA... This has been a very thought provoking week so far and I think has been a catalyst for change in most, if not all, RYLArians here this year. I usually take quite some time to make friends and get to know people, but this week it has been very easy for me. Perhaps this is an indication of the type of people we have here at RYLA, people who are easy-going and keen to get to know every one and give everyone an opportunity to be heard.

I can honestly say that I have seen positve growth in every single RYLArian here. It is a very special thing to be a part of.

Thanks for reading :)

Karina

Day 2 Sunday

2008-04-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

Today we were given the task to ask out 2 girls that we randomly selected out of a hat to take to the RYLA Dinner on Wednesday night.
I did my first girl Kathrine Charlier (who is a lovely pretty girl) by walking in the dining room with my Trumpet and called her out in front of everybody, got down on my knees and played "You are my sunshine, my only Sunshine....." it was a really romantic moment and the groups cheering made it all the better! If I didn't' have a girlfriend (who I love and adore) it would a romantic beginning. I think she really liked it, I hope so she's a lovely girl.

RYLA 2008 has been a real eye opener so far and the group is bonding really well, we are like one big family and are very close with each other. There are two leaders Simon Morrison and Sally Randall I have really got I have got on well with and they are definitely the right people for the job.

Daniel Moore (Ducky) you will see on the main page a picture of me with my two dates!!!

chris' adventure

2008-04-15T23:48:00.000-07:00

Hi people

First attempt at my 'blog'. So much has happened since first arriving on saturday morning. My main highlights would have to include the talk from Andrew Latta, General Manager Mid North Coast for Country Energy, Surfing lessons from Hudo Surf's School and off course our slave auction.

Heading out to dinner but will add more in time.

Cheers

Chris

Caines experience at ryla

2008-04-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

My experience at ryla has been amazing i have learnt so much it got me out of my comfort zone meeting new people and making new friends everybody is so supportive and willing to help thanks guys.

Best week of my life!

2008-04-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

My experiences with RYLA have been simply inspirational. The people I have met in this program have come from a variety of experiences, areas, jobs and backgrounds. This week was designed with getting us out of our comfort zones and I know this has been achieved.

Today we had Kate Wood-Foye to teach us manners that matter, event coordination and organisation. It was a wonderful learning oppotunity. I appreciate that people of this calibre took the time to talk to us.

The people I have met here will be fantastic friends for life and I know I will want to know them forever. The stories that have been told make you laugh until tears run down your face, they make think and smile. Thank you all for making this week interesting and very eventful for me.

Team Wanted organised the bast Karoke night (and just because I'm in the team I'm not biased) and I would like to say whoo hah (we all would like to tell TIM that is the bast catch phrase) to you all for the most awesome of efforts!!! Last night the slave auction held by LBK was a smashing success and one of the funniest and best charitable nights ever. Thanks to their efforts and participation the goal of a shelter box has been reached!! Well done to all and especially Joy who knows how to shake it!!

Katherine Simpson

Surf's Up (Tuesday 15 April 2008)

2008-04-15T03:56:00.000-07:00

Co-writers Nicholas Kable and Rebecca Naylor

We both shared one exciting if almost fatal experience that has changed our minds and the way we shall live our life for as we long as know.

The morning began with a gruelling chant around breakfast as RYLA Team 'LBK' led us into a hearty if deluded singing of 'grace'; true grace for those who couldn't hear it.

We had many informative and useful talks today: Stress Managment, Health and Wellbeing, Country Energy Manager- Andrew Latta, and Financial Planning by Newcastle Permenant Team.

Following a self evaluation using the 'Champagne- Hogan personal style inventory' we came to the physical part of the day, and a whole new experience for most of us, if absolutely terrifying; but we lived, just!!!

We all headed to the beach, chucked on our wet suits and ran into the surf with our trusty trainers from Hudo's Learn to surf team. Trust me when i say "It is not as easy as it looks". After many attempts and so much FUN we finally made it into a half stand.

After this incrdible experience and dinner we were then struck down with some horrifying entertainment for the night; you wouldn't believe it if we told you, but all in the name of charity, allowing us to purchase a shelter box for the disadvantaged, providing a home for ten people under less advantaged circumstances.

That's all for tonight, Surf's out!

what an experience on only day 3 post from Grace

2008-04-14T04:50:00.000-07:00

Coming to a place with all new people has been exciting and lots of fun. Creating friendships that will hopefully last a life time. For me it was hard for me to get out there and meet new people but once I put some effort intot it and began to just be myself I am having the best time. I am looking forward to the next few days while here at RYLA. By Saturday I probably wont want to go home. To tell you all about today what we have been up to is: This morning Ivana spoke to us about John Carroll (our guests speaker from yesterday & Sat) and what we learnt from him. Also she encouraged us about speaking up and leading others. Joy spoke to us about her journey with Rotary and how much she loves it and that it is her passion, in what Rotary does for the community. After Lunch we had another guest speaker Cindy who runs her own business about helping young people set goals and find their career in life and go for it. Then we had to go on a tresure hunt with various activities like push ups, skipping, basketball, hopping while collecting clothes to dress someone up in our team. And of course the best team of the week won which was Antbus thats my team. My team also set the new record for setting up the shelter box. YAH!!!!. The night finished off with a loud night of karoke. Many of the boys made their proposals to girls for Wednesday nights dinner. Tim asked me with his own poem he wrote. He is so sweet. Good on ya Tim. To all you readers enjoy reading about our time while we are here at RYLA 2008

Allison's RYLA experience - Day 3

2008-04-14T04:28:00.001-07:00

Soo... Day 3 of RYLA...

As I write this blog, my fellow RYLArians are finishing off a karaoeke night with the Nutbush. It is topping off another great day here at Bonny Hills with the RYLA crew. We have recapped what we learnt from John Carroll over the weekend - 5 Steps to Brand New - thinking about who we are, and who we want to be. We also had a session on Career Development, and were made to think hard about what our goals are in the short term and the long term, and who we want to achieve them - what steps will we need to take? As well, we have also been initiated into the purpose of Rotary what it does - locally, nationally and internationally. Some of the different programs that we looked into were Interact, Rotaract, The Rotary Foundation, and Rotary Youth Exchange. In 2004 I was a Rotary Youth Exchange student to Finland. It was one of the best times of my life, and without the experiences that I had while I was on exchange, I would be no where near as confidant or as independent as I am now. RYLA is giving me the opportunity to build on that experience and to become a 'Brand New Me'.

I can't say how much I am looking forward to the rest of the week and being challenged to think outside of the square, building teamwork skills and strengthening my leadership abilities so that I can go back to the community and be the best person that I can, and share the knowledge that I have learnt this week.

Cheers,
Ally =)

RYLA 08

2008-04-14T00:42:00.000-07:00

Before coming to RYLA I had been told by past RYLArians how great the course is. They described it as one of the best things they had ever done and now I can understand why. It has been great for challenging myself, building teamwork and leadership skills and meeting so many fantastic new people. The leaders, organisers and speakers have done such a great job with all of the sessions and activities and made it really fun. Today we had a session on career development which was great and the speaker was very inspirational. We have had some great entertainment from the boys making public/creative proposals to the girls to escort them to the special dinner on Wednesday night. I'm looking forward to the rest of the week!

Louise

WELCOME tomorrow's leaders!

2008-04-13T23:50:00.000-07:00

WELCOME tomorrow's leaders!
This is what you are going to get when you throw together more than 50 young adults who ooze potential, creativity and good will in an unknown situation - way outside their comf0rt zones and cram them full of knowledge experiences and a whole lot of fun and friendship.
These great new faces range in age from 18-25 and are currently in school, university, jobs or careers and have been nominated for RYLA08 (Rotary Young Leadership Award) based on showing leadership skills... and I tell you what - at the end of this week, with our powers combined (to take a leaf out of Captain Planet's book) we really will be a force to recon with!
So many amazing strengths that are so different - we are so much learning from each other, we will all grow so much and I am already seeing such great advances, with some very outgoing people standing back to let others blossom and those flower buds (as one Rylarian Riannon said) taking the opportunity to really take the stage and bloom - good on you guys! Really proud of you all!
As I noted in one speech we were in, move over Kevin Rudd Alexander is ready for bigger and better things! And he is just one of us - realistically everyone of these 50-odd up-and-coming stars will all be leading their chosen fields in life and I am sure if we all take note of the names we will see books written about them, speeches, companies names after them and so much more...
So many of us had reached points in our lives where we were happy and might not have been pushed as much as we could be, and it great to see us all learning and growing still - as Joy and our other motivational mentors said "never stop learning"!
I must say I was apprehensive and for the first day and half I can't say I really enjoyed myself as it was very full-on, constantly being around people you don't know - eating, sleeping and doing some really in-depth self evaluations, but by Monday afternoon I had got to know some amazing people and started to feel at home and it is just growing from there! I can't wait for each day so that we can bond further and I can get to the end of the week and say (like the past Rylarians who are helping us find our way this year) "this was the best week of my life, I have made friends for life, this was life-changing and I don't want to go home".
It is hard to start writing and sharing this experience so early into the week, so I might try to steal some time to jump back on here near the end when I have learnt more and know more and had the full-RYLA08 experience.
Something I will share with readers is about a Rotary club that a small group of Tamworthians set up last year-to prove that Rotary is for EVERYONE and not just the "oldies"- although we do thank you for leading and teaching us!
The Young Foundation Tamworth North Rotary Club is a group of people in their 20s who gather each Wednesday night at 7pm at "the Goodies" just for an hour for a drink and a chat. We are very casual and would love more members and I am very willing to help others set up the same type of group in other areas as it is a great way to get involved in the local, State, national and internation community as well as have fun and network.
We have fun fundraising activities such as cocktail nights, race day tents, wine and cheese nights etc and raise money to send support packages overseas, we are trying to start a soup kitchen in Tamworth and raise money for depression, so if you're interested please feel free to contact me on auroradaniels@hotmail.com
Keep checking in, if you get the chance take it and a big thank you to all our supporters who made this possible! And Rylarians take not of my email and keep in contact - I wanna hear from you when you're in high places!
Cheers guys,
Aurora!

Stacey's experience

2008-04-13T23:46:00.001-07:00

My experience at RYLA...
..Wow..I honestly cannot put it into words. It is an amazing experience and not what i was expecting.. It is so much more!!! I have learnt so much already and it is only day 2. I have met so many amazing people and made many new, amazing friends. Ivana is wonderful.. (Yes, she did tell me to say that).. but it is definately true.. All of the other leaders are also awesome! They have done such a good job in organising group activities and other events.
When i first arrived i was a little nervous and didn't know what to expect to get out of RYLA, but as each day passes i am getting more of an idea and am truly loving it!
Everyone that old me that "RYLA is a life changing experience" was 100% correct.
If anyone was to ask me about my RYLA experience, the first thing i would say is that you have to come along and experience it for yourself because it really is amazing and i am so grateful to be here. Every moment so far has been so much fun and i am loving every minute of it! I cant wait to see what else is ahead of my RYLA experience..
And to anyone that is thinkin about participating in RYLA, all i have to say is just DO IT!! I promise that you will not regret it and it will be one of the best weeks of your life and will carry the memories with you forever..
That is all from me for now..
From Stacey McCarroll... Proud to be a 2008 RYLArian =)
xxx

RYLA !!!

2008-04-13T23:46:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not it all started in Supre change rooms. Getting a phone call from some crazy loud lady called Ivana, wanting me to go to some thing called RYLA ?
Well i tell you now, im so glad i managed to accept the offer while trying to put on a charming voice and not making it obvious i was half undressed in a change room.
First arriving at bonny hills was a nerve racking experience, huddled around thinking 'what have i got myself into?', quickly trying to make conversation with anyone about anything.
Its now only day two and i have learnt so much, from self identity to goal setting. I have met some amazing people that are courageous and inspiring... all this in two days, i cant wait to see what the rest of the week holds. The atmopshere is so supportive, and if u ever get a chance for it COME !! you'l have so much fun and learn things about yourself, you didnt think was impossible.
Thanks Ivana for the phone call, i can honestly say that you are that little bit extra that i will remeber from Ryla.

peace out ....
Rhiannon Tange =]

Hey there

2008-04-13T02:03:00.000-07:00

Hey there guys!

What a fantastic time i at RYLA....The last wo days have been absolutely amazing. I love John Carroll who has helped us through self help issues and looking at ouThe crew here,rselves. The crew here (Natalie, Simon, Craig, Rian and Ivanna including Joy (who o is the best) have been really supportive.

Thanks so much guys...

Signing out....Ayman

RYLA Day one and two Impressions.

2008-04-13T00:37:00.000-07:00

Well,
Firstly all the people who have been here before and a few Rotarians gave me a little snapshot of what I had to expect. Then I turned up here and the Leaders said, "OK guys, forget what everyone has told you about RYLA." So after the first hour I knew less about RYLA than before I left Narrabri.
Going to bed after the first day all of my fears and expectations had been allayed. I was confident that it was going to be a great week. It is only day 2 now so that is a great hurdle to have jumped because once you decide it is going to be a good thing, you can involve yourself, contribute, discover and start to enjoy the week instead of trying to work out what the hell is going on!

I now have already thought of several people who could really benefit from RYLA as much as the Academy could benefit from them. Have no idea why my home Rotary guys have trouble rounding up nominees for this.!

Righto, over and out.

Stu Southwell.

2008-04-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

Hi my name is Damien Jackson.

Today I woke up at 6:15 and left the cabin with a group led by Simon, we ran to the beach then played a short game of touch football on the beach, followed by a swim.
We had breakfast which the Stompedos had to sing the RYLA grace

then had another amazing talk from john Carrol

after lunch we had edge Edge Adventures where we had to work as a team to find our way through the rope maze then after that we all the guys had to choose there dates for Wednesday night.

I'm a Rylarian

2008-04-12T03:30:00.000-07:00

Hi all this is Victoria Wilkinson.
I am a Taree girl, sponsered by the Taree North Club
I have now been doubed a Rylarian.
It has been a very busy first day but packed full of fun must I add!
Team WANTED one first prize for the creative team brand (which I am a part of).
Plus may I add we just set up a Shelter Box in a rcord 17minutes (it goes without saying that our team rox).
Having sooooo much fun, meeting the most amazing people.
Quote for the day: "only blame yourself once then get over it"
Thats all from me (time for beb)

Cheers,
Vic

So far at RYLA 08...

2008-04-12T02:29:00.003-07:00

Hi all!
This is 'Lightning Lana' Anderson from Lightning Ridge.
Im here at the 2008 RYLA hosted in Bonny Hills, about twenty minutes from Port Macquarie. I have managed to make friends with fifty one other RYLArians all between the ages of 18 and 25. I came here with no expectations and so far everything has been outstanding!!!
The atmosphere is so fun and exciting, the food is great, and the people are laid back and so easy to get along with.
So far we have had a motivational speaker (John Carroll) talk to us about Me - You - Us. The program is all about building self image. Many interesting points were bought up and discussed. Mr Carroll asked us all to think about our own personal brand, core values and how we will succeed in life. After the session with Mr Carroll we all headed for the beach (most ran) for group photos and a quick dip before heading back to base for some relaxation. Later, split up into 4 teams we hade to work together to create a name, a logo, themes and values and if we were a car and animal what would it be... Kinda weird, yeah i know but it was great bonding and a lot of fun. I am proudly apart of the LBK Team, which obviously stands for Lithium Boxing Kangaroo which pretty much speaks for itself (we of course were the most original and creative but however the judges were a bit objective and so we placed 3rd)
Anyway i have writters block so I'm off.
Night night.

Rebecca Brady

2008-04-12T02:29:00.002-07:00

Hey there from RYLA 08,
My name is Rebecca Brady and I come from Moree in north West NSW. I am stoked to be here and it is an honour in it's self to be asked. I want to tell you a bit about our first day here.
Nervous was the only word i could describe how i felt when i walked in, at twenty years of age i still needed my mum and dad to hold my hand (hi mum). then i met lana from lightening rigde, yes i said a friend!
But i was yet to meet the imfamous grandma slash security of ryla, Jo. What a champ, anyway she had me in stitches within a few minuties. I knew then i was in for the time of my life. Moving into the hall the rules were thrown down and we were officially in lock down. Meeting with the leaders was fun and hearing their experiences means we have a fun week ahead of us.

This was followed by a not so friendly game of dodge ball, thanks guys you could have told me you can get hit from behind! LUNCHTIME!!! after lunch i was hopeing for a nanna nap, but this wasn't meant to be. We were then lectured about personal and life goals by a fantastic speaker called John Carrol. This was a great seminar and I could tell I got a lot out of it. This led us to our team activity and presentation. I was lucky enough to be a member of antbus! ( go team) Our leader is Rian who is a fantastic woman, fun and passionate about why she is here. Then we had to decide if we were a car or animal what would we be. We chose a bus and an ant. our core values and beliefs were untiy, strength and teamwork. which i believe are universal for everyone involved in RYLA 08. Time for chow and presentaion followed by induction. Oh my god they've just put Tina Turner on and I'm sorry but i must go and lay my moves down on the dance floor.
I just have to thank the Moree Rotary club and Jim Crawford for giving me the oppertunity to be apart of this, and Sarah Crawford my favourite showgirl cooridinator, for convincing me to go

Cheers from the big house and sorry for the long blog.
Bec

RebecA]

2008-04-12T02:29:00.001-07:00

It's not even been 24 hours...

2008-04-12T02:28:00.000-07:00

Hey, this is James "Burlo" Burling, Rotary Tamworth's esteemed representative. It only makes sense (or at least to me) that I contribute one of the first three blogs for RYLA '08. So, here goes...ermm...something:

We (the RYLArians) all turned up somwehere between 9 and 10am on Saturday 12 April, at Bonny Hills Conference Centre, and immediately had our baggage tagged and taken to our rooms (we were forbidden to follow, unfortunately). After this moment, we enjoyed forty-five minutes of socialisation as we waited for the opening address. I met nine people in those forty-five minutes (not bad considering there are 53 of us here), and subsequently formed a bit of a clique. (You'll see why I mentioned this very soon.)

After the opening, and introductions by everyone (RYLArians and senior leaders), we were split into four teams of about thirteen each. During this time, we were asked to think of team names (we found out why later), and played a round of dodgeball (at which most of us were very bad) before lunch.

The post-lunch activities took a serious turn (which in turn took some comic twists), as we looked at Us (as compared to the Me and You) in a thing session called, aptly enough, Me-You-Us. This was run by John Carroll, who also did a thing on personal "branding" in Your Own Personal Brand, which lead to us developing a "brand" for our team, including our team animal and car. As a member of the Stompedoes (not my idea, thank goodness), we came up with an Elephant (wise, strong, respected, works in a team—feel free to correct me there) and a Double-Decker Bus (unique, fun, and can be repainted). We even went so far as to create a three-dimensional version of our logo, the Elephant Bus (which we shall be auctioning off internally). Dinner followed along with what sounded like a disco (the bass-pounding of which can still be heard as I type); I feel we shall be dancing long into 10pm.

Now, as for me, as usual, I stuck my foot in it twice(!). I won't go into detail on one of them, but the other concerned me picking up another fellow RYLArian to read a cap (she was short, I was tall...it was set to happen).

Well, that's it from me. Expect photos and more posts from us in the future (not from me, unfortunately), as well as more mania.

So, for now,

James Burling
Stompedoes

2008-03-01T17:56:00.000-08:00

DISTRICT 9650 RYLA

What is RYLA?

The Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a recognition programme where local Rotary Clubs select young people who currently hold leadership positions in community groups, or have shown potential to lead these groups. The major part of this award is an opportunity to participate in a challenging week long residential conference.

What are the benefits?

The RYLA conference provides an opportunity to extend leadership skills and rapidly assists with personal growth; it provides a rare opportunity to focus on leadership talents and on your personal direction in life and RYLA nominees have the opportunity to mix with other leaders their own age from a wide range of backgrounds, who like themselves, are enthusiastic about their leadership responsibilities and self development.

When & where is RYLA 2008?

Rotary District 9650 will conduct its RYLA Conference from the 12th – 19th April 2008. It will be held at the Bonny Hills Conference Centre.