The final meeting of 2017 was graced with the presence (for the nth consecutive year) of – wait for it – SANTA! Lots of Ho Ho Hos from he of the real and false white beard.

Santa then blustered his way through various fines, despite being upstaged by Ron Devlin. Mayor Greg has been featured (if that's the right word) in NZ Women's Weekly magazine, ostensibly as one of the best dressed men in the country. Gifts were distributed by Santa's little (well, not so little) helpers. and caused equal amounts of hilarity and bemusement. Notable gifts were blow-up dolls (both sexes), beach glass holders and bits to help the aspiring chef go Italian.
The inevitable 12 Days of Christmas was 'sung' with Number 5 once again gaining the 'Most Enthusiastic' award. For those who weren't there, or couldn't hear, the days went thus:
First The Toastmaster's new metal knee
Second Only two newbee members
Third Three Paul Harris Fellows
Fourth Four political guest speakers
Fifth Five Friday Fives
Seventh Seven Community collections
Eighth Eight Whisky Galore drams
Ninth Nine member resignations
Tenth Ten backup roles for Pat
Eleventh Eleven 'Have Funs' with Ursula
Twelfth Twelve reminders from Eric
Read, learn, mark and inwardly digest so we can get the singing right next year.