Meeting 2857 was a combined meeting hosted by Mount Gambier. The District Governor was in town for a visit, so we met on Wednesday at the RSL.
The District Governor has made a request for all clubs to donate $1,000 US to Polio Plus. Jessie Harman recently did a walk to Everest Base Camp and raised $40,000 US. With the club's contributions this will increase to approx. $100,000 US to be matched 2:1 by Bill Gates for an impressive $300,000 US.
There was also significant discussion on Rotary District 9780 liability insurance which only covers volunteers up to 79 years old. The insurance is very basic and only covers items not already covered by private health insurance or business insurance didn't cover. For activities that don't have risk management plans in place, the insurance is not valid anyway.
The District Governor expressed disappointment at all the Mount Gambier clubs for failing to support a local student exchange hopeful. The Rotary Club of Nhill had to provide support and counselling for the student.
Youth Exchanges are an important way to encourage lifelong participation in Rotary for students and host families. There are currently 8 outbound and 9 inbound students across the district.
District 9780 currently has 1,231 members which is likely to drop in 2026 when memberships are reviewed. With a potential restructure pending to redistribute districts from 15 down to 8, our district is likely to be split into larger membership zones.
It was a really positive meeting and great to share some fellowship with the Mount Gambier Club,
Until next time.
The DG with the Presidents (West, and Mount Gambier)
Next Week
Meeting 2858 is the clubs Annual General Meeting. This is David and Mary's chance to shine as sergents amongst a month of festivities. Will we see the much loved but absent Mary? or will David take the reigns with a show stopping Santa sack?
December Sergeants:
David Burt
Mary Irwin-Davies
Upcoming Events
AGM, 9 December 2025
Christmas Meeting, 16 December 2025 - Partners Evening
Rawdon Mitchell Challenge Mini Golf, Wednesday January 7th 2026
Australian Sprint Car Catering 30-31 January 2026 TBC
Peter Johnstone
Did you notice all the typos in last weeks bulletin? Either Neil pulled a dictator and created it himself... unlikely or Mary is trying to get fired... either way the Editors would like to apologise to Peter for spelling his name incorrectly.
Border Clubs Luncheon
Next Weekend - Get your RSVP in.
The Border Clubs Christmas function has been arranged. A time to reconnect across our regions network with some Christmas cheer.
Meeting Details
Date: Saturday, 13 December 2025
Time: 11:00 am
Venue: Royal Oaks Hotel
31 Church Street, Penola
Menu: Order from menu
This meeting is open to ALL members of the Border Clubs.
Please advise Neil or Ray if you would like to attend.
Be part of the Solution!
Did you know that Tuesday was Giving Tuesday?
The Rotary Foundation launched their campaign to seek donations towards important campaigns like Miles to End Polio and Hurricane Melissa Response Fund.
Still thinking about the impact y0u could make on the board? Or a burning idea you have bring fun or speakers to the club? Or maybe you have secretly always coveted the board members shiny new badge every year? Whatever your motivation, this is your year!
We are encouraging all members — especially our long-term Rotarians who have a deep understanding of our club’s values and vision to consider taking on a board position. Your experience, insight, and enthusiasm can help shape the next chapter of Mount Gambier West Rotary.
Serving on the board isn’t just about responsibility, it’s about opportunity:
Opportunity to influence the direction of the club and ensure it remains vibrant and community focused.
Opportunity to mentor and inspire newer members, passing on the wisdom gained through years of service.
Opportunity to bring fresh ideas and energy to our projects and events.
Let’s build on our strong foundation by embracing renewal and sharing leadership across our membership.
Together, we can ensure our club continues to grow and thrive for years to come.
If you’ve ever thought about stepping up, now is the time. Your Rotary journey still has new chapters to write.
Can peace be measured?
By Clara Germani
Read Clara's interesting article from Novembers Rotary about an innovative new approach to measuring and fostering peace by looking at everyday habits and behaviors not high-level statistics on crime rates and arms imports.
Rymill Cellar Door are hosting a festive afternoon of wreath making!
When: Sunday 7 December 2025
Time: 3-5 pm
Where: 110 Clayfield Road, Glenroy
Cost: $60 per person
Ticket price includes:
A glass of mulled wine on arrival
Materials to make your own beautiful wreath comprising of succulents, gum nuts and foliage.
Cheese platters and Christmas cake
Discounts on wine purchases!
The 2026 summit brings together three districts to amplify the collective power and drive meaningful change. We'll be focusing on the incredible things we can achieve when we work together, sharing our successes, and planning our future impact.
What to expect:
Inspiring Speakers: Hear from visionary leaders.
Collaborative Workshops: Engage in hands-on sessions.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow members from across the districts.
Celebration of Service: We'll be showcasing amazing projects and celebrating the impact we've all made.
Experience Horsham: Discover the best of the Wimmera region with a Paddock to Plate-themed Gala Dinner and more.
