LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Ree Ali from ADA Australia, spoke with us last week. ADA Australia is a government-funded, independent, not‑for‑profit organisation providing free, confidential advocacy across Queensland. They support older people and people with disability, to understand and exercise their rights in aged care, home care and disability services, including help with My Aged Care, care agreements, fees and confusing invoices.

Their advocates assist with complaints, attend meetings and assessments, and help people self‑advocate so their wishes are heard and respected. Specialist financial advocates explain aged care fees, forms and hardship options. ADA Australia also addresses elder abuse - particularly financial and social abuse - by promoting planning (enduring powers of attorney, advance health directives), staying connected, and knowing your rights. Demand has risen sharply since changes to the Aged Care Act, leading to a six‑to‑eight‑week waiting list, but support remains free and accessible via phone, community visits or office appointments.

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WHAT'S THE BUZZ THIS WEEK?

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

See Upcoming Events in left column and click on blue link for sign up! 

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Meeting Information 

New Rotary Year & Leadership

Our club kicked off the 2026–2027 Rotary year with a warm welcome to President Vicki Kersey, celebrating an outstanding year of achievement. Michael Cooper was presented with the Community Service Award that he received at Changeover, while Vicki was recognised as a Paul Harris Fellow

Guests, Exchanges & Membership

We welcomed ‘home’ our exchange student, Luci from Argentina, to continue her exchange. Joining her were 2 other visiting exchange students from Japan and one from Brazil. Our club's former outbound student (to Italy in 2019, Emily Campbell) also visited. We also welcomed a number of other visitors, including prospective members. The club continues to focus on membership growth and aims for 50 members this year.

Key Projects & Events

Updates covered the duck race (sales from 11 September, race on 21 November), Kokoda ticketing via Square and Humanitix, Swell Arts Spectacular barbecue fundraising, and visits to support men transitioning out of homelessness.

Fellowship & Social Focus

Vicki emphasised more social events. Hannah spoke about the return of Luci's Friday night roster.

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The Buzz Box

Our first BBQ for the new Rotary year was held on 4 July. Mike Shambrook - Club Service Director - penned a fine letter of thanks to those who supported the ‘Humpbacks & Highrises’ BBQ on a fine Winter day. In it, Mike acknowledged the efforts of several members and identified some learnings from the day (cash float and tech issues). Unfortunately, Rita had a fall and broke her femur, resulting in surgery - we all wish Rita a speedy recovery.

Our own Ross Smith was DG Deb's representative at the Rotary Club of Parkwood Changeover dinner. Congratulations to PP Kate and President David for their leadership at that club.