At our last meeting, we had the pleasure of welcoming The Rotary Club of Bayswater for a joint meeting. It was a great to have them join us, we showed them great hospitality and we extend an open invitation for future visits and collaborative ventures.
During our meeting, we were fortunate to hear from Past District Governor Shia Smart, who presented the "Simple Steps" program. This initiative aims to secure funding to support approved counsellors in preventing mental health decline among youth and young adults, in collaboration with Headspace Knox. The program also seeks to provide access to preventative mental health support for all young individuals. In today's world, mental health support is more crucial than ever, and Simple Steps has proven to be an invaluable resource. For more information, please visit [Simple Steps] (
https://www.simplesteps.org.au/).
Additionally, we had the honour of presenting a Paul Harris Fellow award to Ben Giraud, a remarkable member of our community who exemplifies heroism and service. Ben, the breakfast coordinator at Knox Infolink, responded to an emergency involving an unconscious male near the Boronia Progress Hall. Thanks to our Club's donation of a defibrillator last year, he was able to confirm its availability when he called 000. Ben maintained his composure and followed the defibrillator's instructions, performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and stabilizing the young man until paramedics arrived. We are relieved to report that the individual has survived and is now on the road to recovery.
This experience highlights the vital importance of accessible defibrillators in our community and the impact of our contributions. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ben for his courageous actions, which truly embody the spirit of community service. His dedication to enhancing engagement and support for those in need at Knox Infolink is commendable. Ben’s attention to detail and the care he provides, is remarkable, and the relationships he has built with the guests of the breakfast program are a testament to his commitment.
As Rotarians, we share a common goal centred around the motto "Service Above Self." The Rotary Foundation Australia embodies this mission, promoting global understanding, goodwill, and peace through health improvement, educational support, and poverty alleviation. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition honours individuals who significantly contribute to these humanitarian and educational programs.
At our last Board meeting, the decision was made to present Ben with this recognition as a special expression of appreciation from our Club. Ben’s heroism and commitment to the community resonate with our motto and motivate all of us to continue making impactful contributions.
This weekend, both Bernadette and I will be attending the PELDS (President Elect Learning & Development Seminar) at Philip Island. Bernadette will attend as President Elect, while I will be presenting the Youth Skills Shed and networking with fellow President Elects in my capacity as District Conference Chair for 2026. It promises to be a fantastic weekend, and I look forward to connecting with many wonderful individuals.
I would like to extend my wishes to all the riders and support teams in The Ride for Medical Research, departing on Sunday 16th March, riding approx 580km. May you all have a safe and enjoyable ride! I hope the weather is kind to you, and that everyone stays safe along the way. Your efforts in raising money for Australian Rotary Health are commendable.
Since the 1st ride in 1985-86, they have ridden in excess of 30,741kms and raised $1,325,424 (as at 30/6/24) for ARH. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the ride.
Australian Rotary Health plays a crucial role in advancing health research across Australia. As one of the largest independent funders of mental health research in the country, they are dedicated to addressing the pressing mental health challenges faced by many Australians. Their funding extends beyond mental health, supporting a diverse range of general health areas that contribute to overall community well-being.
You will see further in the bulletin a flyer I have created, which I encourage you to share around the community. It’s focus is on ‘volunteering’, and encouraging people to find out more what we do as a Club. I will have copies available at our meeting for you to take. Please spread the word on the wonderful work we do.
I would also like to express my best wishes to our members who are currently unwell, recovering from injuries, traveling, or managing other commitments at this time. We truly miss you and look forward to seeing your smiling faces back with us soon. Your presence is greatly valued, and we hope for your swift recovery and safe travels. Take care and know that you are in our thoughts!
Thank you for your ongoing dedication and commitment.
