Dear Members and Guests,
This month is a busy one, probably our busiest of the year. The Art Show is our biggest fundraiser and provides the foundation for many of the wonderful projects our club supports throughout the year. It is an event that relies on all of us, so please register for the Gala Opening, sign up for a volunteer shift if you can, and help spread the word to your family, friends and networks.
This weekend was another fantastic example of what we can achieve together. Our raffle ticket sales at The Paddo on Saturday night were a great success. Thank you to Geoff, Tanya, Julian and Peter for raising an incredible $965.
Our Bunnings barbecue was equally successful, with 858 sausages sold and an estimated $2,500 raised after expenses. We even sold out by 3.30 pm! A huge thank you to Richard, Margaret, Denise, Alison, Julian, Lyn, David, Leonie, James and Stephen, and a special thank you to Peter and Kerstin for doing double shifts. What an outstanding team effort!
On Sunday, I attended the District Changeover Lunch at the United Service Club in Spring Hill. It was a great opportunity to catch up with fellow Rotarians and friends from our District. Congratulations to Immediate Past District Governor Mark Williams on a fantastic year of leadership, and a warm welcome to our new District Governor, Ian Hope.
This Thursday, we will hear from Peace Fellow Class 23, Khrizzy Avila. Join us to hear her inspiring journey from the Philippines to Australia before she heads back home.
As we settle into the new Rotary year, I also wanted to share a little of the vision I spoke about at our first meeting for those who couldn't join us.
We are entering an exciting period of transition, with new Board members, new members and many people stepping into new roles. One of our club's greatest strengths is the experience
and knowledge within our members. This year, I encourage those who have served in roles before to mentor and support those taking them on for the first time. Likewise, if you're new
to a role, or new to Rotary, please don't hesitate to ask questions. Every one of us started somewhere, and we all continue to learn.
My hope is that we continue building a culture of collaboration, mentorship and shared leadership. By supporting one another and sharing our knowledge, we strengthen not only individuals but our entire club, ensuring it remains vibrant and sustainable for years to come.
Thank you to each and every one of you for your ongoing contribution to our club and to our community. I am excited for what we will achieve together this year.
Warm regards,
Mademoiselle President Valerie
President 2026-27.
