August is Membership and New Club Development Month, a time for Rotary leaders to focus on the most important part of our organization, our members.
This year, we are emphasizing comfort and care for our membership. Throughout the month of August, read inspiring stories of how districts and clubs are creating a nurturing environment and a welcoming culture that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. And find a variety of resources that will help you build and strengthen your membership.
President's Report
Hello and welcome to this weeks’ edition of the Springword.
The Board met on Monday and it was a very productive couple of hours spent discussing all the day to day things that any Club needs to keep on top of, as well as looking at possible projects and initiatives that work towards the objectives of Rotary and the good we can do in the world; we will as a Club discuss these at our future meetings.
I often consider our Club and its membership and reflect on why we have chosen Rotary as the cause we have aligned ourselves to, rather than the myriad of other organisations and activities that we could be involved with and put our time and energy into. I believe in fact it is the very foundation of Rotary that is our strength – service above self; it is such a simple but empowering ethos and one that binds us together; working towards a common goal where there is no personal gain except the satisfaction of doing something for others. I sincere admire our members who live these values and we have the opportunity to witness each and every day in the way in which they personify the virtues of the 4 way test:
Is it the truth
Is it fair to all concerned
Will it build goodwill and better friendships
Will it be beneficial to all concerned
There is no doubt when these four unpretentious but powerful statements are the basis of what we aspire to that we are empowered to achieve great things.
On Wednesday evening the Blue Mts Police Area Command acknowledged and celebrated the work and achievements of police officers within our region with the Police Officer of the Year Award 2025. Susan Wakefield of the Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mts along with several other members of the organising committee including our own Norm and Cheryl Kitto put on a fabulous event that highlighted the significant contribution so many servicing police officers make to our community. Our Club along with Lower Blue, Greater Blue Mts and Upper Blue Mts Sunrise all contributed to the event which really was a fantastic night of acknowledgement and celebration. A call out also goes to Valda Bray who was charged with doing the table decorations and centrepieces and along with her capable helpers, Geoff and Marilyn produced an innovative display. Well done to all connected with the organisation of this event and a hearty congratulations to all the police officers nominated and the eventual awardees.
A very quick observation from this evening and events such as this; it’s the opportunity to sit and talk more leisurely with fellow Rotarians. I had the pleasure of sitting beside our Immediate Past President, Frank Ross and during the evening the president of another Club came along and the discission turned to Sustainable Cambodia. Lots was discussed about the importance of the work that occurs in Cambodia and just how few Australian dollars are required to make a real difference to the lives of children and their families there. I was personally inspired to look more closely at what I can contribute and I would encourage other members to speak with Frank, Al and others who have visits Cambodia to gain that insight into the work of Rotary there and in particular the impact our own members are having there.
I look forward to seeing a few of you at Bunnings on Saturday and then again on Sunday at the Saints and Sinners event at St. Columba. A big thank you to Johannes and Adam for their ongoing organisation of these fund raising events and to the members who make themselves available to assist.
Until next week, take care….Liz
Liz Roberts
President 2025-2026
The Rotary Club of Springwood
RUNNING WILD 17TH AUGUST - SAINTS & SINNERS
The Running wild next event is on tomorrow 17th of August (Details Below).
Looking for 5 People to run a very easy day of serving runners at our BBQ as they finish the run. We may need a cashier as at the last event we could have sold a few extra on the side but this will be confirmed shortly. it’s a nice and relaxed 6 hours with plenty of sit down time so only one shift required. Norm and Cheryl have already put their hand up for the event.
Please let me know if you can help.
Adam Law
VOCATIONAL DIRECTOR'S REPORT
On Wednesday evening at the Katoomba RSL, the Annual Police Awards event was held. Each club participated financially to support the runnning of the event. The Springwood Clubhad agreed to provide the table decorations. Together Valda and Geoffrey provided a spectacular centre piece display recognising the Police, Rotary and a Congratulations flag surrounded by miniature Police Cars, Rescue vehicles and Helicopters. The blue and white theme spread across the tables from side to side.
The evening was Chaired by PDG Susan Wakefield who began the Police Awards for the Blue Mountains District in 2013. It has increased in size and interest each year. The raffle was held in support of the Police Legacy and to the delight of the 10 people from Springwood at our table, 5 were the lucky recipients of prizes. Bronwyn, Valda, Marilyn (2) and Mila (Al’s step daughter). The club should say a special thank you to Valda as she provided all the material which made up the display and which was highly praised by everyone. On each table an envelope with a message if you would like to take a car etc home place a donation in the envelope where the proceeds will go to Police legacy and $185.00 was received.
Geoff Glassock AM
Latest News
1. DATES TO LOOK FORWARD TO
Club General Meeting, 18th August at 6.30 pm. The special guest and speaker on Monday is the District Governor, Michele Ellery who is making her official visit to our Club. We encourage all members, Honorary members and friends of the Club to come to this special night.
Running Wild at St Columba's, 17th August, 6.30 am shift start.
Dogs Day Out at Norman Lindsay Gallery on Saturday 23rd August. We are helping with parking and providing the BBQ.
On Monday 25th August, Matt Cavanagh from Springwood Police and possibly a colleague, will talk about Security in Springwood and the need for Security Cameras in various areas to improve our business owner’s security.
2. PAST EXCHANGE STUDENT
Bronwyn has received from our past Austrian Exchange student, Renate Juelg, from over 20 years ago now. Renate is now Renate Zaiser Juelg a Doctor, married in 2016 if Bronwyn remembers correctly, and with three beautiful children. These photos were taken while they were in Italy on holidays. Renate is hoping to be able to bring her family to Australia for a visit in a couple of years when her youngest son is a bit older. She asked to say hello to any Rotarians who were part of Rotary when she was here.
3. MONSTER GARAGE SALE
Buckland Retirement Village,
39 Hawkesbury Rd, Springwood,
on Saturday 13 September, 9am-12pm
The Rotary stand alone stall will be held at the invitation of Buckland. All proceeds of sale from the Rotary stall, retained by Rotary. Light meals and drinks available at the on-site café.
We are seeking donations of saleable goods, including household items, furniture, antique/vintage items, new/near new clothing and general bric-a-brac.
Our first edition for the Rotary year 2025-2026 of Rotary Foundation on the Move (RFOTM), formerly Rotary on the Move is a bumper issue, and the first under the new editorship of Cheryl Pisterman (with the valuable mentoring of Dr Issa). We welcome our new personnel and introduce our new regional leaders.
RFOTM will appear in your inboxes on the 15th of August, October, December, February, April and June. Please share any information with your club members and encourage them to contribute stories and projects related to Our Charity, The Rotary Foundation.
5. BUSH POET GREGORY NORTH 125th Anniversary Banjo Paterson Boer War Lecture tour
Please find attached the TryBooking link for your registration at the Rotary Lower Blue Mountains event with guest presenter, Gregory North, Bush Poet, presenting " Life and Rhymes of Banjo Paterson "
We would be delighted to have you join in this re-enactment of history 125 years on.
Gregory North's book on the life of Banjo Paterson, Australia's most famous poet, covers the many aspects, travels and travails of Banjo's fascinating life.
Pamela Noal
President - Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains
6. ROTARIAN JOURNEY TO CAMBODIA
7. SPRINGWOOD FESTIVAL
Save the date. Come and enjoy working on the BBQ. All volunteers will be very welcome.
HERE ARE A FEW ROTARY STORIES...
1. ABOUT DG MICHELE ELLERY
Michele, a Mental Health facilitator by classification, brings a wealth of experience from her nursing background. She is the proud founder of a multi-award-winning charity that caters to men, women, and children who have experienced violence and abuse. Recognizing the significant waiting time for services in Western Sydney, Michele ensured that people were seen within seven days. She provided free counselling and court support, effectively reducing barriers to access.
Michele's journey with Rotary began in 2018 when she joined the Penrith Rotary Club. Her dedication and leadership skills quickly became evident as she served as Secretary and Public Relations. Later, she transferred to the Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains, where she continued to make a significant impact. Her roles included President (2020-21), Bulletin Editor, Admin Director, and Public Image Chair. In recognition of her contributions, Michele was awarded the prestigious Paul Harris recognition in 2021.
She has also served as the ROMAC Communications Coordinator, District Public Image team member, District Domestic and Family Violence Committee member, and Winter RYPEN camp mum, which she loves. Having spent three years as District 9685 Assistant Governor for the Blue Mountains and AG Convenor, she has learned much from the clubs and members. She is constantly inspired by the great projects delivered locally and internationally.
She has facilitated with the Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) for the last five years and enjoys delivering leadership training as part of a team of facilitators in the future.
Michele is passionate about Mental health and raising awareness about the stigma of mental illness in the community. This is achieved by providing Mental Health First Aid courses for adults and Youth and has provided, in the last 12 months, over 35 courses to many Rotarians and community members.
Michele was the District 9685 Learning and Development Chair for 2024-25 and a Rotary Community Leader under the Regionalisation Pilot, looking forward to an exciting year!
District Governor 2025-2027
Michele Ellery
Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains
Rotary District 9685
2. DG MICHELE ELLERY PARTNERS PROJECT 2025-2026
3. CUP-FULL OF CONNECTION - An Invitation From DG Michele Ellery
A Rotary Picnic in the Park – Reconnect, Recharge, Refill.
Join us for a relaxed and joyful Rotary District 9685 picnic designed to celebrate YOU – the people who give so much to others. This is a chance to fill your cup with laughter, connection, and gratitude, surrounded by fellow Rotarians, families, and friends.
Date: Sunday 1st February 2026 Time: 11.30 am - 3.30 pm Venue: Fagan Park, Carrs Road 1 & 2 Picnic Areas, Carrs Road, Galston NSW Event Highlights:
• Fun lawn games and light-hearted competitions
• Great food and drinks – BYO picnic or use the BBQ facilities available
• Family-friendly activities and picnic vibes
• Connection, conversation, and community
• Family and friends welcome
Why "Cup-Full of Connection"?
Because even the most generous hearts need time to pause, breathe, and be with those who understand the joy of service, let this day be a gentle reminder that you matter, your well-being matters, and fellowship is one of Rotary’s greatest gifts. Bring your picnic rug, your Rotary spirit, and your favourite people – and let’s fill our cups together. No agendas. No pressure. Just time well spent.
4. DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2026
Registration
Secure your spot and take advantage of early-bird pricing by registering before September 30, 2025. Some events have limited capacity, so we recommend booking early.
Join us in Newcastle to shape the future of Rotary—Together for Tomorrow.
Acknowledgement of Country
We would like to acknowledge the Gundungurra and Dharug peoples past, present and emerging as the traditional owners of the land where our Club resides and pay our respects to them.
