A Year I’ll Never Forget – Thank You
As I sit down to reflect on this past year as President of the Rotary Club of Boronia, I honestly feel a mix of pride, joy, and deep gratitude. What a year it has been! It's hard to put into words just how much this experience has meant to me.
From the bottom of my heart—'thank you’. Thank you for trusting me, supporting me, and working alongside me through one of the most rewarding chapters of my life. I’ve loved every moment, and it’s because of you—our wonderful members. We’ve done some truly amazing things together.
Some Special Highlights
The Interact Club at Boronia K-12
Seeing young people step up and take ownership of community projects—like their café idea—gives me so much hope for the future. It’s the start of something very special.
Youth Skills Shed
Now in its third round, this program has been life-changing for some of the young people involved. The energy and passion from our volunteers and tradies is inspiring—it’s what Rotary is all about.
A Defibrillator That Saved a Life
We donated a defib to Knox Infolink last year, and it was recently used to save a life. A huge thank you to Ben Giaurd—whose quick thinking made a world of difference.
Fundraisers & Fun
Whether it was Trivia Night, the High Tea, Bunnings BBQs, or Golf Day—what fun we’ve had, raising funds and lifting spirits at the same time.
Community Connections
The Knox Volunteer Expo, Knox Rocks concert, and our ANZAC service (with 450 children attending!) reminded me how valued we are in the community. We really do make a difference.
Paul Harris Fellow Recipients – presented at Changeover
This year, we celebrated some truly deserving people:
Geoff Griffin– always there for others with warmth and care.
Annette Griffin– our powerhouse Fundraising Chair.
Jim Sly– 36 years of service and does an incredible amount of work behind the scenes.
Lance Deveson– for community commitment and mentorship.
Glenn Tippett– a tireless contributor both in the Club and District
Ray Siegersma – full of innovation, drive, and heart.
Community Award – presented at Changeover
Penny Robinson from Knox Infolink—thank you for your passion, warmth, and tireless work with the Breakfast Program and Infolink. Your passion for the community is truly inspiring.
Wal Goodwin Award
This is award is voted on by Club Members in recognition of outstanding Service. This was presented to Ray Siegersma. Congratulations!
I honestly couldn’t have done this without the Board. Thank you for your time, guidance, and friendship:
Greg, Peter, Mark, Bernadette, Ray, Neville, Glenn, Annette, Gonny, and Geoff—you have been incredible. What a team.
Our Changeover was a great day and a chance to thank you all for your support and recognise the hard work we have all put in to make our Club amazing. Thank you to the Social Committee for organising, I’m sure those who attended enjoyed the day.
This year has taught me so much—not just about leadership, but about people, community, and the power of coming together for something bigger than ourselves. I’ve grown in ways I didn’t expect, and that’s because I’ve been surrounded by such passionate, kind, and generous people.
Being President has been an honour. But being a member of this Club—that’s what I’m most proud of. We are a family, and I’m excited for what comes next.
I wish Bernadette an incredible year, and sure with your support it will be wonderful.
Let’s keep going, keep giving, and keep lifting each other up.
Take Care,
Monique
