As we return from the Christmas break, it’s worth pausing to reflect on the past six months, half of our Rotary year done and dusted. The latter part of 2025 was busy and, at times, challenging, but it also reinforced the strength of our club and the value of turning up and being involved.
Last year we welcomed four new members, at a time when membership remains a challenge across Rotary. That doesn’t happen by chance. It reflects a club culture that is welcoming, active, and prepared to adapt. Our evening meetings, social catch-ups, and willingness to try things a little differently have all played a part. Growth matters, but so does the way we grow.
There have been vocational visits, school engagement, youth awards, and support for organisations working with the vulnerable. Alongside this, there has been no shortage of practical service. From Teen Challenge and Flexi School working bees, to RAWCS book collections, BBQs, and helping Dalby Rotary at the Stockhorse Sales, members have stepped up which is the backbone of what we do.
The Board has also made funding decisions that reflect the values of this club. Support for Polio Plus, Yellowbridge, YouTurn, Hope For Our Children, and our OBG allocations to Starlight, Momentum Mental Health Services, and Riding for the Disabled all point to a consistent focus on practical help and community impact. These commitments are underpinned by good governance and a strong financial position.
Looking ahead, the next six months will be a busy time for President Elect Peter Nalder as he assembles his Board and prepares to take the reins in July 2026.
There were, however, moments of sadness. We farewelled several respected members and friends. The loss of Peter Sommer and his wife Lucy, of Jock Psaros, and of Bill Klaassen and his wife Sophia reminded us that Rotary is as much about our people as it is about projects. Their lives of service, loyalty, and dedication have left a lasting mark.
Taken together, the past six months show a club that is steady, engaged, generous, and quietly confident. As we head into the second half of the year, that’s a solid place to be.
Happy New Year to you all. I look forward to seeing you Thursday (08/01/26) evening at the Toowoomba Sports Club.
Club News
2 Working Bees for Flexi School 16/17th Jan Please contact Ron Bowden for Details
Mark your diaries, phones or calendars!
Two upcoming social events are booked in.
Friday 23rd of January from 5pm at the Federal Hotel in James Street for a drink and or dinner. No cost and RSVP will be required in January. A good opportunity to bring a friend who maybe interested in Rotary along.
Sunday 15th February from 3pm to 5pm at Matho’s place, 11 Belgium St, South Toowoomba. A gin tasting to answer questions like tonic or soda, is there a sipping gin, how is gin made etc. There will be snacks provided. Cost to be confirmed in January and numbers will be limited to 22 people. Club members get priority, but the event will be opened to non-members in early February if not full.
A fee will apply to any member late with an apology regardless of whether the number attending on the meeting day of the meeting is over, under or equal to what the Club Secretary submitted to the Downs Club. This fee will only apply to meetings at the Downs Club or any other club meeting where attendance numbers have to be stipulated prior to the meeting.
A Club member will be charged a meal fee of $20 if they
fail to submit any apology before 11am on Tuesday for the meeting the following Thursday (48 hrs later)
need to submit a late apology due to changed circumstance.
Fail to show up after indicating they would be present.
The members owing a fee of $20 will notified by the Club Secretary and Club Treasurer via an emailed
Late apology fee notice.
The fee can be paid by direct credit into the RCTE Club account or by adding $20 to the $35 meal fee at the next club meeting
Apologies 18.12.2025
Cam Ashmore, Wayne Barnett, Dave Birrell, Ron Bowden, Rod Brilliant, Andy Burke, Peter Burrows, Jim Charlton, Bob Cheesman, Col Davidson, Steve Davis, Shane Fisher, Lex Franks, Peter Hardwick, Geoff Kapernick, Andrew Kratzmann, John Liley, Conor Martin, Craig Mathieson, Peter McLoughlin, Mark Redmond, Gav Roberts, Toby Sandell, Doc Smith, Matt Wentzel, Mark Winter
Apologies 08.01.2026 Sports Club
Rod Brilliant, Andy Burke, Pete Burrows, Phillip Charles, Col Davidson, Shane Fisher, Roger Klaassen, Toby Sandell, Doc Smith
