Rotary Volunteers Ian, Jack, Dave, Mel, Andy and Stuart 

In a proud new partnership, the Rotary Club of Mount Barker helped launch the inaugural Rotary Mount Barker Gift this November - a vibrant celebration of athleticism, youth engagement, and community spirit.

The event welcomed participants of all ages to compete in a full day of running races, culminating in the exciting Mount Barker Mile. Despite stormy weather, the day saw over 160 participants and a strong turnout from the local community.

Rotary supported the event as part of its commitment to encouraging young people in meaningful activities and fostering community cohesion. Members were hands-on throughout the day, presenting prizes, cheering on competitors, and serving up our famous hot donuts, which kept spirits high and bellies warm.

"This marks the beginning of a promising new tradition for Mount Barker, and Rotary is proud to be part of it"; said President Andrew Scott; "we look forward to seeing the Rotary Mount Barker Gift grow in years to come."

Rotarians Andy, Diane, John and Justin are eagerly awaiting to delight your tastebuds

Every September, an army of Rotary volunteers descends on the Royal Adelaide Showgrounds to serve what many call the best donuts they've ever tasted.

Last year alone, we whipped up a staggering 41,000 donuts, powered by 1200kg of donut mix, 140kg of cinnamon sugar, and a small lake of 260 litres of cooking oil. As our biggest fundraising event of the year, we’re aiming even higher in 2025—because the more donuts we sell, the more good we can do.

These donuts have a fan club, and it’s easy to see why. They’re hot, fresh, and irresistibly sweet—but they’re also a force for good. Every bite helps fund Rotary’s community projects, especially those supporting young people.

So come find us at the Showgrounds. Taste the magic. And know that every donut you enjoy helps make a difference.

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It reminds us that Jesus came into this world to bring hope, peace on earth, and goodwill to all. 

It is also the time when we gather with friends and family and demonstrate a spirit of togetherness in our community. Our Rotary traditions have always included bringing cheer to the less fortunate. Giving and sharing, however, do not always mean giving money or material things. Sometimes taking time to help and comfort someone in need is worth as much or more. As individuals, let us find time in our busy schedules to offer a word of encouragement to someone with a broken spirit, a neighbour, a relative, or a friend going through a difficult time. Let us give of ourselves, not out of obligation, but out of desire. 

As we reflect on the past year and approach a new one, let us consider what we can do as a club to continue making a difference in our community. As Gandhi said, "you must be the change you want see in this world." What changes do you personally plan to make to bring about positive changes in our community?

Let us remind ourselves once again of the hope and joy we find in Christmas. With the global turmoil we are witnessing, it seems more appropriate than ever to say, "let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me."

Adapted from a Christmas Message by Former Rotary International President Bendt Haverberg