Dear Rotarians and Friends,
Our breakfast meeting at Moonyah Recovery Centre on Thursday was a wonderful reminder of our why.
Why did we join Rotary? Why do we give our time to fundraising and community service? Why do we continue to volunteer, even when life is busy?
Danielle and Wayne shared powerful stories of resilience, hardship and hope. Their journeys reminded us that, even through life's darkest moments, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
It was also a pleasure to connect with Tom Booth, the new Queensland State Manager for The Salvation Army, and Rachael Lette, who was recently appointed Centre Manager at Moonyah. Maintaining and strengthening our relationship with Moonyah Recovery Centre is important to our club, and we look forward to continuing this valued partnership.
Friday marked the final day of our 2026 Rotary Art Show, and Saturday was dedicated to packing up the exhibition and handing paintings over to their new owners or returning unsold works to the artists. There were plenty of steps walked, metres of bubble wrap used, and countless screws removed from display panels!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who gave up part of their Saturday to help pack down the exhibition. Events like this are only possible because of the generosity, teamwork and commitment of our volunteers.
Volunteering is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging. We all bring different personalities, experiences and perspectives, and at times it isn't always easy to work together. Unlike a workplace, we are not here because we are paid, we are here because we care. We all share a common purpose and want to make a positive difference in our community.
Whenever challenges arise, I find it helpful to reflect on Rotary's Four-Way Test:
- Is it the TRUTH? Focuses on honesty, reality and factual integrity.
- Is it FAIR to all concerned? Encourages equity, justice and consideration for everyone involved.
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Promotes respect, understanding and positive relationships.
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? Reminds us to seek outcomes that create value for the greater good.
These simple questions continue to guide us, not only as Rotarians but also in our everyday lives.
This Thursday, we have the pleasure of welcoming Tommy Nyawir back to our club. Tommy will share updates on the work of Mirror of Hope in Kibera, the impact being made, and the exciting next steps for the organisation.
On Sunday, 9 August, Kathy and David Frost and I will be hosting a fundraising lunch with Tommy at their home. Rotarians, friends and supporters of Mirror of Hope will come together to enjoy a delicious lunch, share stories and enjoy wonderful fellowship while supporting an important cause.
Please register via TryBooking:
https://www.trybooking.com/DNWKP
For those who sponsor a student through Mirror of Hope, please feel free to bring a letter for your sponsored child. Tommy will be happy to take it back to Kenya on your behalf.
I look forward to seeing many of you this Thursday and Sunday.
Yours in Rotary,
Mademoiselle President Valerie
President 2026-27.
