Happy Easter!

 

To all who attended the Group 4 Rotary Community Group meeting last week—what a fantastic night! It was incredibly informative, and it was wonderful to share ideas and connect with members from other Clubs. There was a real sense of unity in the room, and the discussions highlighted just how powerful collaboration can be. Let’s keep that spirit front of mind as we plan future projects and events. I certainly felt a positive energy throughout the evening, and I think the College of Governors would agree.

 

Looking ahead, I will be an apology for our next meeting, but I’m excited to share that we’ll be welcoming **Leanne Penfold** and **Mel Murphy**, who will speak about the *Hope Katalo Nursery School* in Kenya. They’ll also be bringing copies of the book ‘Girl Child’, which will be available for purchase. The books are $32, with 40% of proceeds going directly to Georgina and the nursery school. Payments can be made in cash, by bank transfer, or via PayPal. I believe this will be a truly inspiring and meaningful session—one not to miss.

 

On Tuesday morning, we will be holding our annual ANZAC service for the local Primary Schools, with over 400 students attending. A huge thank you to Lance Leveson and Glenn Tippet for their exceptional organisation and dedication in making this special day a success. We’ll be joined by a number of dignitaries, including DG Colin Byron, DGE Peter Behm, local councillors, and parliamentarians.

 

As Rotarians, we share a deep connection with the ANZAC spirit—service above self, courage, and a commitment to community. The values of Rotary and the legacy of the ANZACs both remind us of the importance of coming together for a greater purpose.

 

Also coming up—Disaster Aid Australia is hosting a ‘Comedy for a Cause’ night on Thursday, 8th May. Mark and I will be attending, and it would be wonderful to see others from our Club there to support the event. They’ve consistently backed our Trivia Nights, and this is a great opportunity to return the favour. All funds raised on the night will be matched by the Payton Foundation, with proceeds going to Disaster Aid Australia. Expect a night of laughter, silent auctions, and raffles—more details can be found later in this bulletin.

 

A heartfelt thank you to Peter and Jan Malden for their efforts in delivering dental and medical equipment to Rotary Donations in Kind (DIK). Late last year, Peter was approached by Dr Himashi Amarapala of Cathies Lane Dental, who offered up valuable equipment. Thanks to Peter and Jan and with help from Mark Smith’s Office Choice van—these items were safely transported to DIK on 27th March. The goods are now part of the ongoing shipping project to Ukraine, and the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) were deeply grateful to receive them at no cost. This is a perfect example of the work that often goes unseen but makes a significant impact.

 

There’s always so much happening behind the scenes at our Rotary Club, and it's important we take the time to recognise and celebrate it. Together, we are truly making a difference.