The meeting opened with a warm welcome to visiting Rotarian Boris Stokker, and members were reminded that 24 October is World Polio Day. Our club has registered its attendance at the Mount Gambier Show as an official End Polio Now awareness event. Members were encouraged to wear their red End Polio Now shirts, have information available for the public, and perhaps recruit a willing "spruiker" to help spread the message.
Members were also advised of correspondence from Andrew Mattherson regarding the upcoming Regional Community Leadership (RCL) meeting in Penola on Sunday, 22 November 2026.
Show Preparations Well Advanced
With only days remaining until the Mount Gambier Show, Neville reported that preparations are progressing well. Following a few last-minute additions, volunteer numbers are now sufficient to cover the roster. The cool room has been booked, with Brian arranging collection, while Michael will collect the pizza van. Vans will be positioned on-site on Thursday morning.
After producing 175 pizza pans two years ago, the club has opted for a slightly reduced order of 150 pans this year, taking into account lower attendance experienced at the recent Mil-Lel Show. Brian also advised that Chris Klassans has kindly assisted by tagging and updating equipment in the van, ensuring everything is ready for a smooth operation. Ticket arrangements are also being finalised.
Party in the Park Plans Taking Shape
Matthew reported receiving a message from Jodie Swiggs at Tension, offering additional performers for this year's Party in the Park. To provide younger performers with greater exposure, a band will perform before the parade passes through the area.
Planning is also underway to ensure food service is ready by 11:00am, reflecting lessons learned from last year's early crowds. Although the Farmers Market will not be operating this year, another market-style group will be present to add to the event atmosphere. All vehicles and vans will need to be in position by 6:30am due to road closures, with Matthew to advise the order of arrival to assist with setup.
Over the next two weeks, Matthew will circulate rosters covering event setup, pack-up duties and pizza van staffing. Members were also reminded that Party in the Park will be held on 21 November.
Around the Club
In his report, Greg shared highlights from a recent trip to Melbourne, where he supported his son-in-law competing in the Melbourne Marathon. Greg remarked that television coverage does not fully capture the scale of the event, describing a "sea of people" and an incredible atmosphere generated by more than 18,000 competitors and countless supporters.
With the winning time just over two hours and his son-in-law completing the course in an impressive 4 hours and 1 minute, the event showcased both elite athleticism and community spirit. Greg was particularly struck by stories of runners helping fellow competitors who struggled near the finish line, reflecting the camaraderie and determination that make the marathon such a memorable spectacle.
The evening concluded with members looking forward to a busy and successful few weeks ahead, with both the Mount Gambier Show and Party in the Park fast approaching.
Until next time...
Photo by Neil
Photo by Frank
Photo by Neil
There is still time to Donate to Rotary International using the QR code above.
Photos in this row by Brian.
Thank you to all our Volunteers.
Next Week
Meeting 2902 on Tuesday will be at Macs Parlour Room to welcome Keira Quill who is seeking funding for her participation in the Young Rotary Program. We will also have a special Sergeant Session with Frank running a quiz.
October Sergeants
Michael Brooksby
Frank Monger
Upcoming projects
27 October presentation by Keira Quill.
28 October is National First Responders Day Bunnings SA/NT and RI fundraiser
30 October-1 November 2026 - Zone 8 Conference - Melbourne
31 October - 141 Xmas function, Pizza Van
3 November – Sharon SMLC
10 November – Visit to Air Museum
20 November Reidy Park Sports Day
21 November - Mount Gambier Christmas Parade
22 November - RLC Meeting, Penola
25 November - Nominations for 2028/29 DG close
29 November - Blue Lake Fun Run
1 December AGM – Nomination for next year’s office bearers.
9 December Reidy Park Christmas Carols
16-18 April 2027 - Multi District Conference - Warrnambool Vic
TBC - Graeme Cox, District 9780 Youth Protection Officer, Commodore Motel hosted by Lakes
Photos by Frank from our Bunnings BBQ.
Zone 8 Conference - This Week
Some ideas start with a conversation. Others start by hearing what someone on the other side of the region is already making possible This October, Rotary and Rotaract members from across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific will come together in Melbourne for the Rotary South Pacific Conference 2026.
Under the theme People. Planet. Peace.
But the value isn’t only in what happens on stage. It’s in the conversations between sessions, the ideas you take back to your club, the people you learn from and the possibility of turning a new connection into something bigger.
Indulge in the ultimate Greek celebration at "My Big Fat Greek Party"! Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere with live music by the sensational Greek band, Sizmos.
Brace yourself for the exhilarating plate-smashing tradition and show off your Greek spirit in their Best Greek Costume competition.
Join them for an unforgettable night of dancing, music, and unforgettable moments. Opa!
Rotary South Pacific is shaping a stronger, more connected future across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
The strategy focuses on strengthening clubs and member experience, growing membership, increasing reach and impact, building a stronger public voice and creating a sustainable regional model for the future.
Rotary South Pacific have published the full report alongside a two-page easy to read snapshot of the goals and how we will measure success. Both are available at the link below.
Green Industries SA is partnering with local councils and charities to help South Australians set their clothes free.
Unwanted clothing, footwear and household linens can be dropped-off on Saturday 31 October, from 9 am to 3 pm at Mount Gambier Waste Transfer Station / Lifeline South East (5 Eucalypt Drive, Mount Gambier SA 5290).
High-quality items will be donated to participating charities for resale, while lower-quality items will be recycled through Upparel into new products.
Visit St Mary’s Garden and enjoy a weekend of plant stalls, trades, drystone walling, gourmet food and coffee, wine and spirits, with a children’s activity area and much more.
Rotary clubs across Australia are making a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation by combining hands-on environmental action with community service. From the Rotary Club of SEQ Wildlife Rescue, which rescues and rehabilitates native animals for release back into the wild, to the Rotary clubs of Morisset and East Maitland supporting the protection of endangered Tasmanian Devils, Rotary members are helping create a future where both people and nature can thrive.
Read the Rotary South Pacific Article via the link below, which includes links to the two projects.
Coonawarra Woof & Wine Walk brings wine lovers and their four-legged companions together in Coonawarra for a relaxed day of wine, food and dog-friendly fun across six iconic cellar doors.
Stroll the Coonawarra Walking Trail at your own pace, stopping at Brand's Laira, DiGiorgio Family Wines, Ottelia, Redman Wines, Wynns Coonawarra and Zema Estate. Each stop offers something different, from premium wine tastings and regional food to live music, market stalls, dog treats and playful canine experiences. A take-home tasting glass and welcome gift for dogs add to the day, while competitions including Best Dressed Dog, Dog and Owner Look-Alike and Best Dog Trick bring plenty of personality to the trail. Dogs remain on leads throughout the event, with water and shade available at participating stops.
Save the Date! The Lakes Rotary Club of Mount Gambier's Blue Lake Fun Run returns on Sunday, 29 November 2026. This much-loved community event showcases some of the region's most spectacular scenery, taking participants past iconic landmarks including the Cave Gardens, Blue Lake, and the stunning Lakes precinct. Whether you're a serious runner, casual walker, or simply looking for a great family day out, this is one event not to miss. Keep an eye out for registration details and start planning for an epic day of fitness, fun, and community spirit!
