Rotary shares an interest in protecting our common legacy: the environment.
We are committed to supporting activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of natural resources, advance ecological sustainability, and foster harmony between communities and the environment.
Supporting the environment is Rotary's seventh area of focus. It joined peace-building and conflict prevention; disease prevention and treatment; water, sanitation, and hygiene; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; and community economic development.
Welcome to this first edition of the Springword for April.
I know most of you are aware I had a couple of weeks away on a family cruise of the South Pacific islands, going as far north as New Caledonia. Whilst I’ve reported previously, I’m not really one for holidays and enjoy time at home; the opportunity to spend this extended period with 16 family and friends was certainly a treat. Having said this, it’s good to be home and to be getting on with a bit in the garden and back to the ‘Rotary family’.
A very big thank you to those who so ably ‘manned the fort’ in my absence, including Frank who chaired the meetings, and Al, Bruce, Frank and Johannes for the management and organisation of a number of community fund raising event in this period.
I would also like to acknowledge the wonderful efforts of Valda in organising the morning tea at the Singh’s on 16 March, with the proceeds of this event going towards
the purchase of a ride on mower for Grace’s Place. I understand it was really a marvellous morning that was enjoyed by all. The work undertaken at Grace’s Place is inspiring and I feel as a Club we should be rightly proud of the efforts we are putting into assisting them in more easily maintaining their grounds which is currently quiet time consuming and somewhat costly. Our Club continues to find additional avenues of fund raising for this mower and these will be reported on by others.
As noted above the Singh’s again opened their home to us for the above morning tea and have over the last several months donated a substantial number of items for our proposed garage sale later in the year.
On Thursday Archana and Satya moved from their Springwood home and will leave Australia on 15 April to retire ‘home to India’. I personally feel privileged to have known them as both members and friends of our Club. Their life story is inspiring both as health professionals, as well as the significant work they have undertaken in other countries under the Rotary banner. Valda and I had the opportunity to have a farewell lunch with them on Friday and they sent their best wishes to all in the Club.
Archana, Liz, Valda, Satya as we say goodbye
This week a very special member of our Club entered Buckland for a period of respite and by all accounts has settled well and is enjoying the facility and its program of activities. I know most of you are aware that in recent times Colin has experienced health issues, but in accord with his gentle nature he has maintained a genuine happy, dignified and affable persona that has continued to make him a much loved member of our Rotary family.
Beautiful photo of Colin as Marilyn settles him
into his room at Buckland
I’m very much looking forward to my first meeting back after my holiday and to see our own Deana Aitkins is the guest speaker. Deana will be presenting on her recent inclusion on the program at the Hub for International Women’s Day. By all accounts Deana’s address at the event was extremely well received. So please see if you can make it as I know Deana’s presentation will be informative, inspirational and as always with our Deana - a lot of fun.
Finally, a big thank you to the members and friends who so quickly responded to my email seeking volunteers for the our Running Wild event on 26 April and Variety Club Golf Day on 1 May – both rosters were filled on the day of the ‘callout’ and as I noted at the time, it really indicates to me that the true spirit of Rotary is alive and well in our Club.
Future upcoming events that I would ask you to consider:
17 April – Youth Expo at the Springwood Hub, BBQ provided by our Club – contact Sheryn sherynphillips@hotmail.com
16 May - Norman Lindsay Vintage Fair BBQ – 8 to 10 volunteers required – contact liz.roberts2783@outlook.com
16 May - Norman Lindsay Vintage Fair Parking - 4 to 5 volunteers required – contact alkellaway17@gmail.com
Cheers…Liz
Liz Roberts
President 2025-2026
The Rotary Club of Springwood
YOUTH DIRECTOR'S REPORT
1. Youth Expo Springwood 2026
We will be cooking up a storm this Friday (17th) afternoon at the Youth Expo to be held on the forecourt of the Hub in Springwood from 4:30-6:30pm. We have a handful of volunteers who will do a fantastic job. The idea is also for us to promote the Rotary Youth programs & all Rotary does for Youth. It should be a fun afternoon. If anyone else is feeling "young at heart" & would love to help out, you would be very welcome to join us, so please get in touch with me.
2. Western Sydney MUNA
The Western Sydney MUNA competition will be held on Sat 23rd & Sun 24th May at Nepean CAPA High School. We will be sponsoring two teams from Winmalee High & two teams from Springwood High and look forward to hearing about their experiences after the competition. The Western Sydney MUNA organisers would also be very pleased to have assistance from any interested Springwood Rotarians. If this sounds like something you would like to do, please let me know.
Sheryn Phillips
YOUTH DIRECTOR
COMMUNITY SERVICE REPORT
On Wednesday 1 April we assisted the BMGS School with a BBQ for the Students , Staff and Parents during the Schools annual cross-country carnival.It was a perfect day weather-wise and began with me assisting Deana to hitch the BBQ trailer to her car at Bucklands with the encouragement from Logan. This proved to be a little tricky but after about 15 minutes Deana set off for the School and arrived at about 7.45 am. Our eager volunteers also arrived shortly after and together with Deana we all set up the marquee and got the day underway. After a couple of teething issues we began food service at about 8.45am and eventually finished at around 1.50pm.
The School was not as organised as it had been last year, so we had to improvise here and there particularly with the food vouchers, so thanks to all our volunteers for their patience and flexibility. Frank and Alan did a sterling job with the tongs with the able assistance of Donna who kept the plate stocked with eggs; Paul, Belinda, Bronwyn, Warwick and Marilyn kept the food, sauces and drinks up to our customers all throughout the day. Pat was thrown into the deep end as the GOFOR for the first time, due to Deborah having twisted her ankle and couldn't attend, but she took to the task like a duck to water - well done. The actual numbers of meals we provided was difficult to work out due to the confusion with the vouchers but it was between 375 and 400.
When we were packing up, Belinda's husband Hugo arrived to tow the trailer back to Bucklands. He and his off-sider offered to assist with the pack up and their assistance was gratefully accepted and appreciated. On arrival at Bucklands Hugo's skill at backing the trailer into the only available parking slot was very admirable - my assistance during this manoeuvre provided some hilarity as I was using feet and inches to guide him - he and his Mate were too young to understand.
At the end of the day, we had a number of the School teachers/staff thank us for the Club's efforts in supporting the School's Carnival, the profits of which go to the Students special charity project - they were very appreciative.
All in all, a successful, different but enjoyable day. The atmosphere was very convivial, and we had a lot of fun. Thanks to all.
Cheers, Bruce
LAST CLUB MEETING
Andrea Tomastri from Hotel Entico spoke to our members at our last meeting. Hotel Etico is shaping a more inclusive world through the art of hospitality. As Australia’s first not-for-profit social enterprise hotel, Hotel Etico is a multi-award winning business, recognised for its innovative approach, combining hospitality excellence and social impact. At the heart of the hotel is their Employment and Independence Program, which empowers young people with disability, giving them life-changing hospitality and life skills to support their transition into open employment.
It’s more than a premium venue with elegant accommodation. The hotel offers an authentic and unique experience in a truly inclusive environment.
We thank Andrea for his fascinating presentation.
LATEST NEWS …
1. DATES TO LOOK FORWARD TO ...
Rotary Garden Care for April - Marilyn
Tuesday 14th April - Dcaf at the Sports Club
Friday 1st May - Ori Raffle night
Next Bunnings BBQ - 20th June
2. MORE DONATIONS TO GRACE'S PLACE
We have received a message from the President of the Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains and funds they have raised towards our purchase of a ride-on mower for Grace's Place.
Dear Valda and your Springwood RC team
I am so pleased to advise the outcome of the bucket collections at Rotary Glenbrook Markets for the community to support Grace's Place and the mighty ride-on lawnmower:
Total raised = $1,064.30 :)
Please share the details for this amount to be deposited into the Springwood Rotary account. It was Lower Blue's pleasure to lend a hand in supporting the purchase of the item for Grace's Place.
Sincere best wishes to you all from Pamela
Pamela Noal JP
President Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains
We are very grateful to the RCLBM for this donation towards our funds and particularly to Norm Kitto who collected the donations as people entered the gate for the Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountainsmarkets.
Thank your to all.
3. APRIL IS FALLS AWARENESS MONTH
Click on the image below to read more information about the issue of falls awareness.
Rachel Pagitz
Public image Director
4. A PAST CLUB MEETING SPEAKER
A Guest Speaker, Hosanna Siv from Destiny Rescue, has sent to us some information about their programs and their impacts:
I wanted to share something special with you: Destiny Rescue’s 2025 Impact Report. This report provides a snapshot of the incredible work made possible through the commitment and generosity of partners like you. Because of the support of people who care deeply about protecting children, 5,738 survivors were rescued in 2025, including 3,605 children. Each number represents a life changed and a future restored.
Inside the report, you’ll see how Destiny Rescue teams around the world are working together to bring freedom and lasting support to vulnerable children and young people. It highlights:
• Rescue operations carried out alongside law enforcement
• Border interventions stopping trafficking before exploitation occurs
• Covert rescue efforts reaching children trapped in hidden situations
• Freedom Plans™, which equip survivors with education, skills and long-term support to help them stay free
You’ll also read powerful stories from survivors whose lives have been transformed through rescue and care. These stories remind us that rescue is not just about statistics, but about restoring dignity, hope and opportunity. One of the most encouraging outcomes in this report is that 86.4% of survivors enrolled in Freedom Plans were confirmed to be free from exploitation 12–24 months after rescue, demonstrating the lasting impact of ongoing care and support. This progress is only possible because of people like you who stand with Destiny Rescue in the fight against exploitation. I hope you enjoy taking a few moments to explore the report and see the impact your partnership is helping make possible. Thank you again for being part of this mission. Together, we are helping bring freedom and hope to children around the world.
Hosanna Siv
Partnerships Manager NSW
Destiny Rescue Australia
To view and download the Impact Report 2025, click HERE.
5. ANZAC DAY IN SPRINGWOOD
Anzac Day on 25TH April is a national day of remembrance and commemoration. This solemn day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.
Anzac Day commemorations, services and events take place throughout Australia. The Springwood RSL Sub-Branch is conducting their annual Anzac Day March and Service. The Dawn Service will occur 6-6.30am at the War Memorial in Buckland Park, Springwood.
The Anzac Day March will occur 10.15-10.55am, concluding with a service until 11.45am at the War Memorial in Buckland Park, Springwood.
Bruce Wood from The Rotary Club of Springwood will be be repersenting us and laying a wreath on our behalf.
6. SPRINGWOOD ROTARY DONATIONS SURVEY - Your suggestions would be appreciated.
On behalf of President Liz and your Board we're inviting you to complete a short survey to identify your preferred organisations and charities for our Club to support. Your feedback is completely voluntary and to support decision making by the Board - it doesn't mean all of these causes will receive our support or otherwise. If worthy opportunities present themselves during the year they can be brought forward by members and considered by the Board at that time.
We are about to launch an exciting $5 for $5000 raffle and in addition to our regular excellent events, our ability to support good causes continues to be a highlight for us all. Please share your thoughts on how this good can be shared.
We would appreciate if you could complete the survey as soon as you receive it but no later than 30/3.
Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. Rotary is recognised globally as one of the most effective, transparent, and accountable service organisations. For more than 120 years, Rotary club members have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects.
Your Board is keen to get your views on what the money we raise together can be used for - not selecting a charity or organisation does not mean it won't be a beneficiary.
Rachel Pagitz
Public Image Chair
7. CENTURION DONATIONS - YOUR RESPONSE IS URGENT
It's that time of the year again! The date for the closing of donations for 2025-2026 will close soon. This is another message asking those who haven't yet made a payment of $100.00 to the foundation, as a Centurion fund contribution, to think about it in the next few weeks. Treasurer Bill has contacted me with the cutoff date on 20th April.
This is entirely up to each member, but the Foundation is the basis of Rotary, and we are able to apply for grants to help our fundraising efforts, Locally, Nationally and Internationally. To those who have contributed this year a big thank you.
Bank details are: The Rotary club of Springwood Inc. Community Account
BSB: 112-879
Account number: 098876456
Thank you
Valda Bray
Foundation Chair
STORIES FROM ROTARY...
1. ROTARY MEMBERS JOIN THE RACE TO FIND MALARIA VACCINES
Malaria has bedeviled humankind for millennia, afflicting generations back to the likes of Alexander the Great, believed to have been felled by the illness on the banks of the Euphrates. The magazine’s April cover story describes how scientists, at last, are starting to unravel how to make vaccines to target the shape-shifting parasite that causes the disease. Read how Rotarians are helping in: To catch a killer parasite.
2. WHEN PARENTS HAVE POLIO VACCINE QUESTIONS, THIS ROTARIAN HAS ANSWERS
With World Immunization Week approaching, learn about
Rotarian Diana Maria Pirga’s work for UNICEF Pakistan to manage disinformation and address hesitancy about polio vaccination. Small numbers of parents express worries about side effects or the need for several doses, and Pirga’s team provides health workers with simple, clear responses. Read: The specialist — Rotarian dispels myths about polio vaccines.
3. APRIL 1ST JOKE FOOLED EVERYONE - TODAY SHOW WITH KARL, SARAH ...ANDREW BEST & LIZ McDOUGALL
Andrew Best pranks Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo RI Director Jennifer Scott was on air with Ben Fordham on Australia’s #1 radio show. Together, we achieved a massive amount of air time. Yes, part of it was the joke but then there was ample opportunity to discuss the IMPORTANT work we do.
It has also created some direct contacts – producers and other staff – now we can pitch directly to them with a much better chance of being read! The fact we turned up, sparkled with energy, put in 100 per cent on the day means we at least have a chance of cutting through the myriad press releases that land in their emails. We gained around $250,000 of free promotion through this idea so sorry if we temporarily upset any BBQ’ers.
When Rotary’s April Fool’s joke was first suggested, I could see many Rotary members throwing their tongs in disgust. It was a deliberate plan. On the serious side – it is becoming increasingly difficult to get ANY coverage about Rotary in the mainstream media. We have a very experienced team working on this at all times and the frustration of sending out media releases which are possibly never read, let alone a response received, is so frustrating. It is a waste of our time and energy.
So, what might work? The idea came a few weeks ago. What do people know about Rotary? We cook sausages. So take it head on. With April 1 looming we pitched it to the media and NINE to take it up. Andrew Best who works at RISPPO (Rotary International South Pacific and Philippines Office) and I headed to NINE – Andrew to appear with Karl and Sarah, me to cook the snags.
RI Director Jennifer Scott was on air with Ben Fordham on Australia’s #1 radio show. Together, we achieved a massive amount of air time.
L to R: Sarah Abo, Karl Stefanovic, Liz McDougall and Andrew Best
4. INTRODUCING THE NEW PROSPECTIVE MEMBER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The system (formerly known as the membership leads management system) focuses on building momentum and relationships as we help more people discover the gift of Rotary membership.
People who visit rotary.org/join will now choose the club that they believe best aligns with their interests and needs. After they submit their membership inquiry, an email message will automatically notify club presidents, membership chairs, secretaries, and executive secretaries (if applicable). Club officers will then take action to help the prospective member begin their Rotary journey.
What can you do now? We recommend that you and your fellow club leaders:
I (DG Michele Ellery) am very fortunate that I have a husband, David, who is just as passionate as I am in advocating for Mental Illness. Please consider supporting the funding of a PhD scholarship, to continue the vital research into mental illness in children aged 0–12 years.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK...
"I would like to think that the pioneering days of Rotary have only just begun... Rotary simply must continue to pioneer or be left in the rear of progress." — Paul Harris. This reminds us to constantly innovate and advance, keeping Rotary relevant in a fast-changing world, focusing on service and action.
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.
Andrea Tomastri from Hotel Entico spoke to our members at our last meeting. Hotel Etico is shaping a more inclusive world through the art of hospitality. As Australia’s first not-for-profit social enterprise hotel, Hotel Etico is a multi-award winning business, recognised for its innovative approach, combining hospitality excellence and social impact. At the heart of the hotel is their Employment and Independence Program, which empowers young people with disability, giving them life-changing hospitality and life skills to support their transition into open employment.
Malaria has bedeviled humankind for millennia, afflicting generations back to the likes of Alexander the Great, believed to have been felled by the illness on the banks of the Euphrates. The magazine’s April cover story describes how scientists, at last, are starting to unravel how to make vaccines to target the shape-shifting parasite that causes the disease. Read how Rotarians are helping in: 
