Welcome to this week’s Rotary Club of Boronia bulletin.
It is my great pleasure to thank everyone who attended and participated in last week’s working group meetings. It was fantastic to see such strong engagement and collaboration as we continue to move our club forward.
I’m especially excited about the Rotary Club of Boronia Golf Day tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to enjoying a great day together on the course.
I’m also keen to hear all about the Shitbox Rally on Tuesday. It promises to be a fantastic update and I’m sure it will be an inspiring story to share.
We’re also pleased to be welcoming a few guests from the Rowville-Lysterfield Club. It’s always wonderful to connect with neighbouring clubs and see the great work being done across our area.
Looking forward to another great week ahead.
Yours in Rotary
WEEKLY REMINDERS
ATTENDANCE
Please use ClubRunner to manage your attendance.
If you are unable to attend and/or wish to bring additional guests (including for special events or partners nights), please update your response by 5:00pm Monday.
Please note: we must provide Knox Club with final numbers and we are charged for meals even if you do not attend.
If you would like something included on the website, please contact Jim Sly. Content and photos are always welcome — especially of hard-working Rotarians!
If you’ve ever wondered what the Box Rallies “Shitbox Rally” is all about, here’s the simple version: it’s not a race — it’s a seriously fun (and slightly ridiculous) challenge where teams drive cars worth no more than $1,500 across some of Australia’s most demanding roads, all while raising vital funds to support the Cancer Council. (Shitbox Rally)
Over the last 15 years, Box Rallies have raised more than $50 million for Cancer Council — proving that a cheap car, a big heart, and a sense of humour can do some incredible things. (Shitbox Rally)
The Autumn 2026 rally runs from Port Douglas to Melbourne, from Friday 1 May to Saturday 9 May 2026. (Shitbox Rally)
Teams of two must also meet fundraising milestones (including a minimum $5,000 per team) before they hit the road. (Shitbox Rally)Why people love it (even when it goes pear-shaped)
Yes, there are long days, dusty roads, and the occasional “what’s that smell?” moment — but there’s also camaraderie, dress-ups, creative car themes, and the magic of people coming together for something that matters. The rally even travels with support crews, and teams often finish with an auction/buy-back that helps raise more for the cause. (Shitbox Rally)Next meeting: Mark Smith’s Shitbox stories
At our next meeting, Mark Smith will be sharing what it’s really like — the best bits, the hard bits, and the unforgettable moments from his past rallies. Expect plenty of laughs, a few “you wouldn’t believe it” stories, and a great reminder of how these adventures translate into real impact for families facing cancer. (Shitbox Rally)
CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY
The Environment Committee have decided to team up with RC Bayswater for Clean Up Australia Day. They‘re once again working with the Friends of Dandenong Creek team. It would be great to see many volunteers on Sunday 1st March,2026.
Details below;
Please Bring
Closed-toe shoes
Sun protection
A reusable water bottle
Gardening gloves
**Please note there is drinking water and toilet facilities at the Maroondah Nets**
All ages welcome. All helping hands appreciated.
Whether you're a regular along Dandenong Creek or visiting from the broader community, your contribution makes a difference. See you there!
DATE AND TIME
Sunday 1st March 2026
9:30am - 11:00am
LOCATION
Armstrong road Bayswater VIC
Landmark: End of Armstrong Road at the Dandenong Creek
Council: Knox City Council (VIC)
Site Type: River/Creek
EVENT INFO
Meeting Point: Armstrong Road, Bayswater VIC on the grassy area next to the access path to the creek trail. Parking in Armstrong road.
Sunrise has invited Westfield Local Hero Ray Siegersma to appear on Sunrise and talk about the Youth Skills Shed.
What an amazing opportunity to showcase the program and the work of Rotary Club of Boronia to a much wider audience.
The Sunrise broadcast will take place on Tuesday 3 March, from around 5:30–6:00am.
Location:3rd Doncaster East (Scout Hall) — corner of Blackburn Road & Saxonwood Drive, Doncaster East(located in Zerbes Reserve).
We’ll be running a BBQ on the morning, so come along, grab a snag, and help us create a great atmosphere for the broadcast.
On the day we’ll have 7 boys from the new Junior Tradies Skills Shed group, plus one past participant, and, at least four tradies, and two principals, along with Assistant Principal Kristy. It’s shaping up to be a terrific opportunity to highlight the value of the program and the support behind it.
Yes, it’s early — but it would be brilliant to have a strong member turnout.
Please come along if you can, wear your Rotary gear, and help us promote our Club and support the kids.
WORLD ROTARY DAY
Don't forget to wear your Rotary club shirt or Rotary branded apparel out in public on Rotary’s anniversary February 23rd.... and spark a conversation with people about your Rotary story.
The Ride for Medical Research is organised by the Rotary District 9815 Ride for Medical Research Team. Over the past 40 years, Rotary Districts 9810 and 9820 have raised an incredible $2,476,285 for Australian Rotary Health, supporting vital medical research across the country.
The next annual ride will be held 22–27 March 2026, marking 40 years of dedication to funding life-changing research. Riders will cover approximately 578 km, setting out each day from the Bendigo base and spending six days exploring the surrounding countryside.
Our community (Group 4) leader is Guz Rozycki (Belgrave) and our fellow community clubs are
Belgrave
Bunyip Garfield
Emerald & District
Ferntree Gully
Healesville
Koo Wee Rup Lang Lang
Lilydale
Monbulk & District
Pakenham
Upper Yarra
Wandin
REMINDERS
If members are unable to attend Tuesday night's meeting, please decline on ClubRunner by 5pm the Monday before. This is important for Knox Club staff and catering purposes.
You can update or find information on this website or contact Monique Smith to register or update your details. *Please remember to list Rotary Club of Boronia as a place you volunteer.
Our social media platforms are a great way to see what our club is up to and share our progress with others. If you're not yet connected, just click the icons below and follow.
Riders will cover approximately 578 km, setting out each day from the Bendigo base and spending six days exploring the surrounding countryside.
