Book lovers, bargain hunters and families are warmly invited to one of the Surf Coast’s most loved community events — the Rotary Club of Torquay Book Fair 2026.
Held over three big days on Friday 16, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 January, the Book Fair will once again take over Surf Coast Secondary College on Hillside Parade, Torquay, offering thousands of quality pre-loved books at an unbeatable price — just $2 per book.
Whether you’re searching for a great holiday read, children’s favourites, cookbooks, novels, history, biographies or hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. With new stock added daily, many visitors return more than once to see what treasures they might discover next.
2026,book collectors,book fair,book fair address,book lovers,books,cheap books,community fundraiser,events in torquay,great ocean road,hillside parade torquay,january 2026,rotary club of torquay,story dogs,surf coast,surf coast secondary college,things to do in torquay,torquay
Book Fair sales are from 9 am to 4 pm each day during 17th - 19th January 2025.
A pop up BOOK FAIR is a major fund raising activity for the Torquay Rotary Club.
Environmental impact - recycling of reading material
Collaboration of Community - Secondary College and Rotary
Community Impact - provides Rotary with funds to support a variety of activities within our local community as well as the broader national and international projects
Grab something to read and then pass it on to someone else to read - from just $2.
Polio is the world’s forgotten disease and something that should have been made history a long time ago. It is a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease. There is no cure, but there are safe and effective vaccines. The strategy to eradicate polio is therefore based on preventing infection by immunizing every child until transmission stops and the world is polio-free.
This October we are asking you to Walk With Us for those who can’t. We are challenging you to walk, run or roll 10, 20 or 50km throughout the month and raise vital funds that will help eradicate and prepare us for a Polio free world.
It has taken nearly three years to finally see some progress. We have been provided with a Global Grant from The Rotary Foundation and from Rotary Clubs, Rotary Districts and private donors from many parts of Australia and from Singapore. The value of this grant is over USD $85,000, and this has now been deposited in the Global Grant bank account of the Rotary Club of Manly. We have commenced ordering from suppliers in Port Moresby and Brisbane. Lucy and Craig will go to Lese Oalai via the LooCube centre in Brisbane (to fine-tune their construction knowledge) to supervise the building of the toilets.
Amy Hunter, our guest speaker at the RCOT dinner meeting last Monday, gave us the insight into a wonderful opportunity to support a soon to arrive Syrian family looking to resettle in Torquay. The 23 year old couple have two preschool age children, a boy and a girl.
Eight experienced folk make up the Welcome to Barwon Group which have trained and worked hard to raise funds and develop a support network to make the transition for the young family from a long term stay in a refugee camp in Turkey to a new life here in Torquay as comfortable and successful as possible. Amy and Steve Richards, another member of the Welcome to Barwon Group, spoke about their motivation for investing so much of their time to the community refugee program.
An absolute priority for the group is to source comfortable and affordable short term accommodation for the family in Torquay or the surrounding area.
Amy shared information about how Rotary can partner with Welcome to Barwon to support this beautiful family to start a new life here on the Surf Coast. Members were keen to ask questions and find out more about the program and how we can help. The empathy for the family was palpable. Let’s all work together to convert our willingness to help into effective action.
Community Refugee Integration and Settlement on the Surfcoast
Rotary members have already shown amazing generosity to the people of Ukraine. Because we continue to receive an outpouring of requests to provide humanitarian aid, The Rotary Foundation has created a new temporary fund. The Ukraine Response Fund is a response to the ongoing, urgent need and the wish of Rotary members to keep making a difference for people affected by the war.
Together, we can offer our support to these communities. Here is how you can help.
Fundraise among your colleagues, friends, and family using Raise for Rotary
Learn how Rotary members are helping the people of Ukraine
Thank you for supporting this new fund and helping communities in Ukraine recover.
Sincerely,
Ian H.S. Riseley 2022-23 Trustee Chair The Rotary Foundation
When you donate to the Ukraine Response Fund, please note that these are temporarily restricted funds. Any unused funds may be transferred to our general Disaster Response Fund to help communities affected by disasters.
In his presentation to the recent International Assembly of incoming District Governors from around the world, RI President Elect Gordon McInally introduced the Rotary theme for 2023-2024 'Create Hope in the World'.
If you haven't seen it, Gordon’s entire presentation is well worth a watch and listen. It runs for just 22 minutes.
Create Hope in the World - the 2023-2024 Rotary Theme
Our next chapter meeting will be held on Thursday 12th December at 6.30pm.
Hello and greetings from the Rotary Club of Sydney’s Climate Action Group:
Shared vision, shared ideas: A Rotary Recap In 2021, Rotary International declared Protecting the Environment as the 7th and newest Area of Focus for Rotary. Rotary Clubs have been involved in a range of environment related projects and initiatives to engage Rotarians and the broader community to contribute to protecting the environment.
The Rotary Club of Sydney’s Climate Action Group will host an online discussion with members from some Rotary clubs who will share what their clubs have been doing. The projects include beach clean-ups, tree planting and an eyewear project, involving members, local councils and schools, and indigenous communities.
Come and join us to learn about these fantastic projects and also discuss other projects that Rotarians can get involved with. Date: Monday 12th December 2022 Time: 5.30 – 6.30pm AEDT
I am excited to let you know that our 2023 District 9780 Conference website and Try-booking is now open so please share with your members and encourage them to come along.
you can reserve your booking for our weekend of fun.
We even have a special prize draw for early bird booking prior to the 31 January 2023 so get in early to be in the draw.
We have some fantastic speakers lined up for our conference -
Jelena Dokic - Tennis legend, TV commentator, refugee, author,
John Marsden - multi award winning author, educator and founder of two schools,
Professor Anthony Holmes AO - reconstructive surgeon who separated co-joined twins Krishna and Trishna,
Lyndon Galea - CEO and founder of the 'Eat-up' program,
Rosie Lotawa - ROMAC's 5th patient and Ambassador,
Jessica Trijsburg - Peace scholar and leader in strategic diversity
and
Mark O'Toole - legend in Lismore for not only his own helicopter rescue, but also his on-going support and assistance for flood displaced locals.
We are also giving you the opportunity of choosing a song for your club to be played at our dinner dance on Saturday evening. The list to choose from is attached so let me know which song represents your club's fun side.
Don't forget there are prizes for individuals and groups who embrace the conference theme of 'We are the World' so dress to impress and come along as a group to ensure we all have a fun night to remember.
I look forward to catching up with you all again as we join together for a fun weekend of celebrating Rotary and our District - working together to make a difference in the World.
Rotary has been working to eradicate polio for more than 35 years. Our goal of ridding the world of this disease is closer than ever. As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, we’ve reduced polio cases by 99.9% since our first project in the Philippines in 1979.
Today polio remains endemic in only Afghanistan and Pakistan. But it’s crucial to continue working to keep other countries polio free. If all eradication efforts stopped today, within 10 years, polio could paralyse as many as 200,000 children per year.
Walk With Us To End Polio
This is an invitation for you to join Team Torquay Rotary as we raise funds to End Polio by walking throughout the month of October.
This October, we are challenging you to walk, run or roll 10, 20 or 50km throughout the month and raise vital funds that will help eradicate and prepare us for a Polio free world.
2. Get a team together – Getting on the journey with friends, family or colleagues will be more fun.
3. Walk with Us! Track your journey goal and aim to get yourself on our leader board.
When and where is Rotary Walk With Us 2022?
Rotary Walk With Us 2022 is an online fitness challenge which runs for one month from 1st October 2021 to 31st October 2022. You decide where and when to complete your challenge.
What do I have to do?
Walk, run or roll 10, 20 or 50km throughout the month and raise vital funds that will help eradicate and prepare us for a Polio free world. Wherever you live, whatever your fitness level, you can decide where, when and how you Walk With Us to end Polio. Setting a challenging personal goal will make it more likely others will sponsor you.
As the Rotary District 9780 representative for End Trachoma over the years many Clubs were involved in producing hygeine bags which were delivered to school children in Northern Territory.
Part of the program has been collecting used stamps which have raised over $30K for a water trailer.
Thank you to the Rotarians and friends for collecting used stamps and contributing to the Rotary Club of Torquay's collection which PP Michael Reed delivered to me on Friday.
An amazing 275 old hearing aids were also delivered. These will be delivered to a business in Melbourne which refurbishes hearing aids and provides them to disadvantaged people (many are indigenous) in Australia.
Thanks you to Michael Reed, the Rotary Club of Torquay and everyone else involved in the collection. Reflect on how something so simple as collecting an old hearing aid or a used stamp can provide a significant improvement on the quality of life of disadvantaged people in Australia.
For those who chose not to go to the Trots on Friday 22nd we have also scheduled Christmas in July Fireside chats on Monday Night 25th July. You will need to register via the invitation you will receive by email.
“ We have had a good response to the Trots night, but we still have 4 more seats to make up 2 tables of 8“
Please contact Maggie Isom if you are interested
_____________
"Christmas in July" at the Trots Friday 22nd July a few Tickets Still Available
Monday 4th July saw, our now Past President Michael Reed hand over the reins of the Club to Incoming President Ben Featherston and his management team for 2022-23. Congratulations to all concerned and may this be another successful year for Torquay Rotary as Ben and his team embraces this year's theme "Imagine Rotary"
To view the full Photo Album from Changeover go to Changeover Pics
You as a member of our Club can do something about Plastics !!!
Supporting the Lids for Kids program and attending the World environment dinner at Geelong Bowls Club on Monday 6th June 6 for 6.30pm will give you some great ideas about how each one of you can help with this massive problem for the World
For only $30 you will get a great 2 course dinner,
A complimentary drink and meet with other Rotarians in the Geelong District ,
Hear great speakers, and join in some fun with environment games and get some more ideas about you personally contribute to saving the planet !!!
Torquay Rotary Club has a great Environment Program so we would like as many members to come along and share ideas with other Clubs
Please register through TRY Booking – by Wednesday June1st see poster
Maggie Isom
_____________
World Environment Day 6th June - RSVP's CLOSE 1st June
Gerard Sell from the Rotary Club of Belmont joined us recently to launch the 2022 Social Inclusion Program fundraiser lunch. This event is the main fundraiser for this unique program under the Headspace umbrella which provides support and treatment for young people in the Geelong Region, suffering for mental health issues.
For a number of years our Club has been a supporting partner of the event and Gerard informed us that there at several things that we can do to assist them this year:-
Sell tickets to the Luncheon (we have always taken at least one table of 10)
Help to source items to be included in either the Silent Auction, Live Auction or Raffle
Provide people power assistance at the event.
Gerard has reiterated that whilst support and donations will be most appreciated they would prefer to see this as an opportunity to invite corporate/business support from our network of contacts. This would also provide an opportunity for us to develop our Club's relationship with these people/businesses.
Many of us who have previously attended these events have always found them to be both enjoyable and the speakers inspirational. It is intention to fill at least 1 table, hopefully 2.
If anyone would like to either book tickets to the Luncheon or to donate goods or services to the Auctions and Raffle please contact either Michael Reed.
_____________
Rotary Club of Belmont Social Inclusion Fundraiser Program 2022
As an aside, Lucy received the following message re our project from the Governor of the Gulf Province Chris Haiveta
Thank you, Sis, for your tireless efforts to Assist our village over the years through the foundation.
I am committed to supporting you and the foundation as you prepare to widen your coverage on critical issues.
We are working with a couple NGOs in the Province already and can provide you the letter of support.
I suggest that we formalize the support and collaboration through an MOU.
In the meantime it would be much better to send a profile and EOI from the foundation to me aa head of the Provincial Government so that we can commence to formalize the relationship.
God bless and thank you Sis.
John Oswald
International Committee
Project to Redevelop Classrooms at Lese Oalai village school PNG
WHAT WE ARE COLLECTING AND WHERE TO DROP OFF ITEMS
Bottle Top Lids
Cause:- Lids4Kids is a nationwide 100% volunteer project to rescue plastic bottle lids
from landfill to benefit the environment and kids. Lids4Kids hopes to rescue eligible lids from landfill for projects that benefit all Australian kids in need.
So if you could collect milk bottle tops for recycling to reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill., you will contribute to Torquay Rotary’s Environment Project
Just remove the yellow, blue or red plastic top from milk bottles, wash clean & pop into a container .
Maggie Isom will let us know when we can drop off to a bin at Coles Supermarket 41 Bristol Rd Torquay
Cause :- Aussie Bread Tags for Wheelchairs, who collect them, sell them to recyclers and turn the cash into wheelchairs for people who can’t afford them.
Cause :- Recycle for Sight Australia a joint effort with Torquay Lions Club to send old prescription glasses to overseas communities where people cannot afford them.
Cause :- A Rotary "Donations in Kind" joint exercise with the Rotary Club of Boroko to disperse to needing schools in PNG. They need books that are used in Australian schools from Grades Prep to 8. Plus story books for younger children for grades Prep to 3.
The Clean Up at Pt Addis this morning was wet, wild and blustery.
Friends of Pt Addis extended a warm thank you to Torquay Rotary Members, Partners, Friends and volunteers.
We collected many papers, bottles, wrappers, cigarette butts and miscellaneous items too gross to mention :).
It was wonderful seeing so many members doing a great job in such trying conditions, not only does Pt Addis look so much better, the environment for the wildlife and sea life will be greater enhanced.
Further to the question posed at dinner on Monday night, I have booked the Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park for Thursday, 16th to Sunday 19th of February 2023 for a muster of the Recreational Vehicle Fellowship of Rotarians. This is the week after the Motor show.
Usual bookings are for 30 powered caravan sites and 10 cabins. Cut-off date for bookings is mid-November, so we will have a good idea of the numbers that will come by then.
Kelly, Sue (Currie) and one other have very kindly offered to help with the planning of the social side of the muster. I hope we can meet up later in this week.
For any further information regarding the Recreational Vehicle Fellowship of Rotarians and their planned trips please contact John Oswald.
__________________
Recreational Vehicle Fellowship of Rotarians 2023 Musters
The Rotary Club of Torquay recently purchased 2 sewing machines and donated them to Torquay College to use in the Wellbeing Area where they have an amazing project underway to sew 'Joey' pouches for local injured wildlife.
The same day they received them, Deb Russell, Student Wellbeing Officer stated "We actually had an opportunity to use the machines this afternoon in the last session for 2021 and they were fabulous!
We are really looking forward to having these machines as part of the ongoing program in 2022".
A fantastic outcome for all involved and an example of how we can support our local schools and wildlife carers!
Hi Malcolm & Kelly
Thank you so much for purchasing and donating the sewing machines to help with the Joey Pouch – Student Wellbeing program. We actually had an opportunity to use the machines this afternoon in the last session for 2021 and they were fabulous! We are really looking forward to having these machines as part of the ongoing program in 2022. I have attached a couple of photos (permission has been received by parents to share and use in newsletters etc). The first two photos were taken today showing the new sewing machines. The rest of the photos are moments from the Joey program at various times throughout the year.
President Michael represented our Club on Thursday at Community afternoon tea held at the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club hosted by Senator Sarah Henderson which was attended by Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Clearly, by these pics there was some good banter going on and Scomo was most interested in our Rotary Club and the current projects we have underway, particularly the PNG Lese Oalai School refurb.
I'm sure that we will receive a more detailed report from the Pres on Monday Night
John McDonald has been in Epworth Hospital for 2 weeks now and probably another week .
The Doctors are investigating reasons for his decline in his health and various other things that have arisen since the radiation treatment for another skin cancer.
The only thing is that John cannot have visitors and this is one thing that he dearly misses !!!
He can receive phone calls and in some instance he can get himself down to the foyer and you can meet with him outside in the little garden off the café.
He is attending rehab each day and improving slowly and he certainly hopes to be home soon
But he would love to hear from his mates at Torquay Rotary Club – his mobile is 0405146443
Please ring Maggie on 0412713102 if you have any queries
A great social evening was had on Friday night at the Beckley Park Trots. Lots of laughs and social banter was had by everyone present. Although I doubt anyone will be retiring on the strength of picking winners but the actual races were secondary to the social fun and Face to Face activity that was enjoyed.
From time to time we receive requests to assist individuals in our community and often these requests don't always fall within the scope of our usual support guideliness.
Last week we received one of these requests from Shaun, who had been the Carer for Jan Juc resident, Wilbur Stawns who had recently passed away. Wibur's landlord had placed his remaining belongings on the nature strip and with no family in Victoria to assist there was no-one able to deal with the disposal of the items. The Shire had suggested that Shaun contact one of the local service clubs but he was becomeing quite distressed as to how he might be able to solve the problem.
So after a few phone calls Cr Rose Hodge manged to arrange for the Shire to waive the usual fees at the Anglesea Transfer Station, Many thanks to Rose for arranging this and to Geoff Dawson for providing the Ute & Trailer, who along with President Michael managed to get the job done in one load.
Thank you all for solving this problem for one of our local residents and to once again promote Rotary in our Community.
DIK are running a book sale on Sat Nov 20, 1000 to 1600. This will also include a raffle and sausage sizzle. It will be at The Easter Hub, 285A McKillop St, East Geelong. The objective is to raise funds towards the ongoing operations of DIK. As you would be aware DIK provides much needed support to developing countries, particularly in the South Pacific by recycling and repurposing donated goods which otherwise would have ended up in land fill. It also provides much appreciated support to around 30 regular volunteers. As evidence of this please find attached a collage of photos of our most recent container to Port Moresby PNG.
Your club can help in 3 areas:
We need people to cover 3 shifts on the day of the Sale. A total of 18 people are needed to cover 4-hour shifts starting at 0800,1200 and 1600. Details attached. Please advise me of people who can help, their preferred shift and their email address and phone number. I will then revert confirming details when the roster is finalised.
We will finalise posters for the sale over the next couple of days. I will forward them when complete. Please place them on your website, Facebook page or in other appropriate public places to promote this event.
Are you able to sell some raffle tickets? Total prize value will be around $1200, ticket prices have been set at $5 each or 5 for $20. If so, please advise and I will arrange to email you a detailed list of prizes and deliver book/s of tickets to your preferred address.
Presidents, assistance from your cubs in this important fund raiser will be much appreciated and will significantly assist to ensure the ongoing operations of your DIK.
Thanks to the Torquay Community for the overwhelming support of our Pop-Up Art Sale. We have SOLD OUT in only 2 Days with takings in excess of $4,500 so the Sale is now ended and the shop closed.
Thanks to all the Rotarians who assisted with the Sale, so all those who were rostered for tomorrow and Tuesday can now enjoy a couple of days off
Hello Fellow Rotarians, Families and Friends of Rotary,
I am sending out this message to you all so that there will be NO confusion when we resume our meetings at Kithbrooke Park as of Monday 8th November.
I do realise that this can be a controversial subject but for those of you who haven’t been vaccinated for any reason whatsoever, you will not, unfortunately, be able to enter the Clubhouse unless you have proof of reason why you are not immunised, i.e health reasons….!!
They have very strict rules, as you will understand, and it is up to us all to respect that and follow their entry rules and guidelines. Although a few of us in Rotary are actual residents here most are visitors, so this applies to everyone coming to Kithbrooke Park.
We are expected, as everywhere else, to be fully vaccinated, have proof of our vaccinations and must wear face masks at all times unless sitting down with a drink and/or food.
We will have a Covid Monitor at the door who will record everyone’s certificate of proof of vaccinations. This does include any family members, friends and our guests that have been invited.
We really appreciate your patience on our first visit to the Clubhouse as we take record of everyone’s proof of vaccinations, if this hasn’t been done already, etc., as this might be a bit slow to start off, so please remain outside (or in your cars if raining) until you’re able to enter the premises in a safe and proper manner.
Many thanks for your understanding from Kithbrooke Park and Torquay Rotary Club.
Jan 😊
IPP/Club Service Vice Chair
___________
Important Information Regarding the Return to Face 2 Face Meetings at Kithbrooke Park
Our club for many years has had a Welfare Officer.
Over recent years, Maggie Isom has looked after this role. Maggie has stayed connected with members and their families in times of need, has helped out when needed, and kept the club well informed.
This year, Jan Emmett has stepped into this role.
The position of this role can be very extensive…
The main purpose is to stay connected with any member of the club in times of need, and to be aware of the welfare of that member, so that contact can be maintained, and information reported back to the President and the club members as required.
It is the responsibility of the welfare officer to report information that is public knowledge, or the member wishes to be conveyed, about a members’ well-being to the President.
Situations such as - illness, a death or injury in the family, being re-trenched from work or just need assistance in some way.
Although every effort is made to make sure that we all know if a member is unwell, in hospital or had an accident etc., it helps if it is reported asap so that we can maintain a close-knit bond between the member and the club members.
Please, if you know of, or are yourself in a position where you may need any assistance, please let President Michael or Jan Emmett know so they can connect with you.
Thank You…
Whilst on this subject our thoughts have been with Vernon and Charmain D'Souza who have been having a busy time with firstly with Vernon's recent visit to Epworth for some tests, which we all hope went well, followed up with his and Charmaine’s 50th Wedding Anniversary as well as his Birthday… so here are some wishes to the D'Souza's from all of us!
Those who were online for Kester Bains ESRAG presentation last week will remember "The Blue Dot" well Trevor pickles has suggested that we all listen to Carl Sagan's speech in regard to the Blue Dot - Earth photographed from 4 BILLION MILES away.
His speech is just mind-blowing, for me anyway!!..... Trev Pickles
Spring Clean Your Patch is back after a successful 2020 event!
Let's see if we can go bigger and better this year!
Last year BeachPatrol and Love Our Street mobilised 500+ people across Victoria and together we: - Cleaned 186km - Collected 1,848kgs of plastic waste and litter - Collected 3,636 bottles and cans - Collected 649 coffee cups and lids - Collected 188 masks and PPE - Collected 3,029 butts
This data was used to collaborate with local organisations and the Local Government to keep advocating for plastic waste reform and plastic recycling across the state.
So join us on Sunday 26th September. Everyone is invited - everyone is needed to collect and document the plastic litter in your neighbourhood
The data will be directly loaded to the state government's new database for them to track the type of litter and locations.
Grab the gloves, waste collection bags, COVID safe equipment and head out into your local neighbourhood, town, streets, parks and schools for 1 hour between 9-12pm.
All within COVID State Government regulations in your area.
Event directions on the day: 1. Gather your bags, safety gear, personal protective equipment and anything else you'll need, and head out into your neighbourhood for 1 hour between 9-12pm. Pay attention to the items you collect: bottles, cans, coffee cups/lids, PPE items and butts. 2. Download the Litter Stopper app https://litterstopper.com 3. Log the collected waste and plastic litter in the app using the ‘Full Audit’ clean option to record the 5 items listed in step 2. Add other items you wish recorded. 4. Share your experience and photos into this event page or on your social media and include hashtags
Directions on how to use the app version 3.9: 1. Take a photo of your group or litter collection 2. Press 'Start Clean' 3. Select 'Love Our Street', then select 'Spring Clean Your Patch' 4. Select 'Begin Without Timer' 5. Type in 'Your Location' (ignore the default postcode 3000) 6. Choose your 'Type of Cleaning Area' 7. Select ‘Full Audit Clean' to enter your collected rubbish. Finish collection when done. 8. Follow the prompts in the app to enter details 9. Hit 'Submit' and upload a pre-taken photo if you wish
If experiencing difficulty refer to instructions on each page.
Make sure you dispose of waste appropriately – rubbish in the rubbish bins, recycling in the recycling bins and drop off any clean soft plastics at REDcycle – you know the drill. And make sure you stay COVID safe!
What better way to kick start Grand Final week than to hear from someone who has actually umpired 7 of the big matches. AFL Hall of Fame umpire Brett Allen entertained us for nearly 45 minutes with stories, anecdotes and his journey to reach the pinnacle of umpiring.
Brett hails from Geelong and played his junior football there, but decided his small stature needed a year off to grow. In that gap year he discovered he could earn $50 per match by umpiring and so started an illustrious career. Towards the end of his career he was earning $100,000 pa and today that has climbed to around $150,000 for the top umps. This is still well less than the best players and coaches but Brett thinks it is around the right level. Umpires normally have other employment as well, but this can be difficult to juggle around training and interstate travel requirements. It was these last 2 factors that lead Brett to retire in 2007 aged 41.
Brett’s early Grand Finals were one sided affairs so his worries about close scrutiny of decisions was unnecessary. In fact Brett preferred preliminary finals as these were extremely passionate games and with passionate crowds. The Grand Final crowd hosts many “theatre goers” in Brett’s words. His best players? Gary Ablett snr – a stand out – followed by Carey and Voss.
Should umpires still issue Brownlow votes rather than a “panel of experts”? His surprise response was YES because of GAMBLING! The betting houses need uncertainty in the result to make money. Figure that out! He agrees umpires do not always get it right. Once Modra kicked 13 goals in a match and they awarded him 1 point – because they thought he’d only kicked 4! Brett said the best rule change has been that umpires can now award a 50 metre penalty for abuse. Prior to this player abuse to umpires was rife, and umpires often dished it back too. Miking up the umpires meant this had to be quelled, and Brett is hopeful that the rising respect now given to umpires will continue – although he was not happy with the recent lenient Toby Greene penalty. Junior football looks to the top for guidance so this respect must be in place at top level to filter down.
It was great to see many members get into the mood of the evening by displaying their club allegiances. We all enjoyed Brett’s most entertaining presentation. _____________
Report AFL Footy Meeting with ex Umpire Brett Allen
The Environmental Committee have had a great start to the recycling arm of community service with the LIDS FOR KIDS collection from John McDonald's gate at 2/58 Zeally Bay Rd . Thanks go to Rotarian Geoff Dawson for installing the collection bin that has been filling up regularly
We would ask you all to collect milk bottle tops & other lids for recycling to reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill., in that way you will contribute to Torquay Rotary’s Environment Project !
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
An extract from the poem presented at the first inauguration of Bill Clinton by Maya Angelou who was an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, several books of poetry, and is credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning over 50 years. She received dozens of awards and more than 50 honorary degrees
How relevant this is to everything that we do in Rotary!
President-elect 2021-22 Jennifer E. Jones reflected on this at this weekends International Conference saying that as Rotarians"we should be brave and intentional in our actions to say and do nice things to our fellow members and families" .......so appropriate at this time during the COVID pandemic.
Visiting Rotarian Daryl Lee has revealed to us that when you purchase from Amazon Smile your purchases can actually contribute to Rotary
Members maybe unaware that by using Amazon Smile to buy things on line they can contribute to Rotary Foundation. There are other charities that can be nominated but Rotary Foundation would suit Rotarians. To register go to this link Amazon Smile
________________
Did you Know that buying from Amazon Smile can contribute to Rotary
There has been some great feed back from last weeks presentation by Michael McQueen that he delivered to the Presidents Elect Training Sessions last year.
Michael McQueen is a Sydney-based social researcher, professional speaker and bestselling author. He is a also a member of the Rotary Club of Crows Nest in NSW.
In 2004 he founded a training consultancy called The Nexgen Group. Since then, he and his team have presented to and worked with over 85,000 senior students on topics such as career planning, interview skills and financial literacy. Michael is a sought-after internationally as conference keynote speaker and is a leading authority on youth trends and strategies for engaging with Generation Y.
Michael's presentation was focussed on how can Rotary Club's plan for survival in the world post CVID.
For anyone who missed the presentation and would like to view the recording simply CLICK HERE.
As August is Membership Month there has been a very good Article RID Jessie Harmon from Ballarat published which is well worth having a read of - CLICK HERE
Lids4Kids is a nationwide 100% volunteer project to rescue plastic bottle lids from landfill to benefit the environment and kids. ... Lids4Kids hopes to rescue eligible lids from landfill for projects that benefit all Australian kids in need.
So if you could collect milk bottle tops for recycling to reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill., you will contribute to Torquay Rotary’s Environment Project
Just remove the yellow, blue or red plastic top from milk bottles, wash clean & pop into a container .
When this is full or half full you can drop off to John McDonald’s home 2/ 58 Zeally Bay Rd Torquay Maggie will then drop these off at Collection points around the Geelong Region
Lucy’s Stationery drive for PNG – an easy non-pandemic restricted overseas aid program for Rotary Clubs in D9780
These photos represent the targets for a new DIK drive to find TEXT BOOKS for the RC of Boroko to disperse to needing schools in PNG. They are used in Australian schools from. Grades Prep to 8.
The RC of Boroko has been very helpful with our programs in PNG. It would be good if you could include the photos in the Club Newsletter so that our Rotarians can now help find copies of these books.
We also have received several large boxes of story books for younger children for Lucy's original targets (grades Prep to 3). PP Kelly facilitated this collection.
John Oswald
International Committee
The Rotary Club of Torquay
_____________
DIK - Rotary Club of Boroko PNG School Drive for TEXT BOOKS
Do you know someone who would benefit from joining an organisation that brings together young professionals and students aged 18 to 35 years to develop professional and leadership skills, and have fun through community service?
Rotaract is a global organisation that empowers young professionals and students to create positive and lasting change in themselves, their local community and around the world.
Rotaractors help, learn, and enjoy. They help those in need, learn through professional development opportunities, and enjoy social activities.
Rotaract will support young people to become emerging leaders in their study, work and local community.
There are 70 Rotaract Clubs across Australia that are part of a worldwide organisation of 250,792 individuals in 10,904 clubs covering 184 countries. This is a diverse network to engage with.
Please encourage your friends, family and colleagues aged 18-35 years old, to attend to learn more about Rotaract and the benefits of participating.
200 students live in Lese village, the rest of the students are all from neighbouring villages.
The students of Lese Oalai were told at assembly on Monday, that the orange container from Lucy has arrived in POM.
And the teachers and headmistress said, the loud cheering from their 1,000 students has given them extra motivation and inspired them all to excel. They are ready to deliver donations to their neighbouring schools and will take photos to share on Facebook.
Even the teachers, and the village are ready to help distribute to the other schools in Gulf.
We have given them hope. It's a small gift to them, but for them, it's like a brand new Xmas gift. They will forever been grateful 💝🇵🇬 John Oswald International Committee
Could you be a friend to an international student studying in Geelong? Study Geelong is looking for local residents in the Geelong region to participate in the program and help show an international student what a friendly, amazing place Geelong is. The program lasts for 12 weeks and is NOT a live-in program.
Study Geelong runs a couple of events for all participants, but it is up to participants to arrange when and how they will catch-up during the program. It has been challenging for many students being isolated and away from their families and friends back home.The International Friends Program provides an opportunity for locals to show that we are a welcoming and inclusive community. You can develop friendships with students from around the world, enjoy sharing your favourite places to go in Geelong, the Australian culture, language, food and your interests and hobbies. You will also learn about another culture and develop intercultural skills.
If interested please apply before 31 July. There will be an online orientation session on 11 August at 5.30pm and you will meet the student you have been matched with at the Kick-Off event, 5.30pm on 23August. For further information and to apply go to http://studygeelong.com.au/international-friends-program
Don Shields, is Club President & Membership Director of The Rotary Club of Geelong Central.
Don writes …
Simone was a guest speaker at Geelong Central several months ago, and as a result of which I volunteer with Study Geelong, and I am currently mentoring a final year Construction Management student at Deakin. KP is from Gujarat in India, loves cricket and on return to India, will work in his father’s Construction company. KP was looking for mentoring on the “soft skills”, and as a result on a monthly basis we meet to discuss the practical side of dealing with people and leading them.
On return to India KP will know about Rotary too, and hopefully, his family’s company can install donated playgrounds in Gujarat. Its not a great deal of time required, and I commend the program to you and your members.
Rhonda Anchen has now had two zoom meetings with Simone and members of this program. Rhonda writes the following ….
Just an update to the status re the International Student Program.
I had a Zoom interview with Simone on Wednesday and the next phase is a Zoom orientation session Aug 11 which covers the guidelines and parameters of the program. Simone and her team then do a ‘perfect match’ and I get to meet our student FtF on Aug 23. The program runs for 12 weeks with the option to continue the friendship if both parties are keen. The program looks extremely well organised.
Simone and I discussed networking opportunities for ‘our’ student and I was wondering if others would be keen to join a bush walk or activity. Obviously an invitation to one of our more interesting Rotary meetings will be extended to our student.
Please contact Rhonda for further information and how to join them on the next zoom meeting.
For three hundred and sixty-five days a year, we should be thinking about organ donation, not just focus on it for a week. Because it can touch us personally at any time. That could be losing a loved one and making that very unselfish decision of organ donation. Or it could be a family member or friend receiving that gift of life.
Did you know there are more that 1600 Australians are on the waitlist for a life-saving transplant, every new registration counts.
Bayside Rotarian Ian understands the importance of organ donation when losing his wife Heather in a dreadful car accident in 2019, he and his family made the decision to say YES
Consider the ripple effect this had on so many families. It isn’t just the 5 organs that were donated to those 5 people. It is the other lives that are touched because a family in their time of grief made the decision to say Yes
This picture shows the Aranyosi family. Ian with his children their partners and his grandchildren. This Sprint car was dressed to bring attention to the Donatelife campaign and to remember Heather, it was displayed and raced January 2020 at the Warrnambool Grand Annual Sprint Car Classic, which is the second largest event of its kind in the world.
This year, the goal is to have 100,000 registrations. Please check your registrations to see they are still current, chat with your family and friends - and encourage them to check theirs.
If updating is required, or registration is needed ---- register using the above link.
I spotted this story on FaceBook last week which gives recognition our support of the Motivation International Project. Click on the story to go to their Fb page.
Calling all supporters... We'd like your help, please, to find some scaffolding to borrow or hire for our stage lights!
A strange request, I know, but we've discovered recently that the lighting "trees" we have used in the past need to be higher (to avoid casting light on the audience from behind). A solution to this is to put up two aluminium scaffolding towers of about 3.9 metres height each (on wheels) and run a lighting bar between them (see picture below). This is perfectly legal and structurally sound and safe.
We've contacted suppliers but they charge over $1300 for hiring such structures. A cost that we can't 'absorb'.
If you happen to have some aluminium scaffolding sitting around (!) or know someone who could lend us (or hire us, or give us) such equipment by the middle of next week (depending on lockdown duration), please contact Michael Baker on 0413 040 976 to find out more.
Thanks so much for using your networks to help us out. We will give appropriate promotion and gratitude to any suppliers through our media outlets.
Hi my name is Cherie Pilkington and l am organising a trivia night on the 14 th August at Kardinia church to raise money for a beautiful five year old boy who had Nueroblastoma a cancer in children. His only option after extensive treatment here in Australia is to go overseas which will cost his family $300,000. I was wondering if you could support the evening by either booking a table of 8 or by making a donation . We are in desperate need of your help.
Please contact Greg Plumridge on 0418521321 if you are interested in getting a table together for this fundraiser.
As most Rotarians in District 9780 are not able to attend our District Changover in person next Sunday 11 July in Port Fairy, here is the Teams meeting link to join the formalities from 1:00pm (Vic Time).
As many of you know we recently farewelled Palila who secured full-time employment and we wish her every success. Our Activities Officer Fiona Bramham has also been offered a wonderful opportunity to work for a great organisation called Our Community, and we congratulate Fiona and thank her for her time and contribution to the community house this term.
With these changes, I’ve been working with our Board of Management and we’ve done some thinking about the future of the house – looking to see how we can best address our community’s needs, especially for those of you who come each week to activities and groups. We’ve decided it’s time for a fresh start and with that, I would like to let you all know that after 21 years as the Co-ordinator, I have made the decision to retire.
I'm sure you'll agree that 21 years is quite an innings and I have been privileged to have held this position and to have worked in a sector that advocates for and identifies the needs of local communities. I have gained great fulfillment and satisfaction in serving my community. Most importantly I hope I have been able to develop a friendly and welcoming environment that honours basic human values of respect equality and inclusion.
So – now is a perfect time for me to take a curtain call, say a fond farewell and pass on the baton to make way for a dynamic passionate co-ordinator who will bring new life to the Community House. I hope that once appointed, the coordinator will continue our proud history of enriching the lives of the local people within Torquay and surrounds, in keeping with our original founder’s vision.
Opening Times
Given these big changes,the Torquay Community House will be closed to the general public from 28th June to Monday 2nd August. All Term 3 programs and activities will continue at the House and staff are contactable via email at administration@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au<mailto:administration@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au> or phone 5261 2583. During this time the Board of Management will be recruiting a new Co-ordinator and the House will be repainted.
Torquay Community House staff will work from home at this time, but they will answer all emails/phone messages. We have let all facilitators and tutors know of the extended closure and they understand the processes involved for you to continue with Covid-safe classes during this time.
It's been an honour to be part of the Community House family for so long and I thank each and every one of you for supporting the house and being part of that family. Every effort is being made to bring you a new exciting team and I know that you will embrace this change.
So here's a last Cheers from me with much love and gratitude.
If for some reason this link does not work from this email , you can access the link from the Tuckers Funeral Service website and click on the link for John Lionel Crawford to watch the funeral.
Obviously our Fine Dining Evening cannot go ahead thanks to COVID Lockdown, so once the future becomes clearer we will book another date with Graham and revisit who is available for an alternative date at that time. So watch this space please.
We are to be the guests of Graham Jefferies, Head Chef at SAMESYN, 3/24 Bell St, Torquay.
Graham owns 2 other restaurants, Tulip in Geelong and Wildflower in Melbourne. He has an impeccable record of providing an enjoyable and delicious dining experience.
"The restaurant speaks of the region, showcasing local suppliers with seasonal, everchanging dishes designed to share"
Graham will then speak, telling of his International Career in Fine Dining, the sourcing, supply and the business of food, and of course the creation of his restaurants, including his Torquay venture of Samesyn.
Unfortunately all 32 available seas are almost all filled so if if for any reason you are going to be unable to take your place please contact me ASAP rather than having any "NO SHOWS"
If you have any queries please contact me.
Amanda Hough
____________
Social Fine Dining Experience at Samesyn Tuesday 1st June
This week Lesley and Michael represented our Club in the on-line District 9780 celebration of the Australian Rotary Centenary.
The food spread at the Torquay venue certainly looked inviting and fitting for a 100 Year Birthday Party. (Good Job Lesley) We look forward to hearing an expanded report from them tomorrow night.
Whilst we were unable to proceed with our usual Motor Show for 2021 thanks to COVID-19 our decision to hold a "Virtual" Show was made to maintain the connection with our supporters and to continue to promote our Annual Motor Show and the Rotary Brand. Whilst we did not attract a massive number of entries we were able to to run the "Virtual" Show very economically thanks to support from our generous sponsors and the fact that we already had 4 Trophies left over from previous Shows.
Proof that we achieved our goals were reinforced when we received the message below from one of the Class winners this week
You will see that in a very generous gesture Val & Dave Perkins winner of the Muscle Car Class have donated the prize money back to our Club.
To the kind members of the Torquay Motor Show Committee,
I would like to thank you all for the commitment of continuing to offer an online virtual car show during the Covid-19 pandemic. With many events cancelled for the year it was a wonderful opportunity to still be able to showcase our cars via social media and continue to support the Rotary Club by way of cash donations via photo entries for the classes.
I am extremely honoured and excited to win the Muscle Car section and receiving a lovely trophy which is proudly displayed.
I thank the sponsor Bannockburn Panel Beaters for your prize of $100 which I would like to donate back to Rotary Club of Torquay. The Rotary Clubs across our country do a massive job in all ways from community support and projects to volunteering their services for catastrophic events we seem to have so frequently - you are always there to step in when required.
Once again thank you for the great show and we look forward to be at the 2022 Torquay Rotary Motor Show.
Chris and Christine, you have both been chosen for the ‘Honorary Membership’ of the Rotary Club of Torquay because our members believe your commitment to this club over the years warrants this recognition.
Chris, this distinction recognises the numerous contributions you have made over many years, with your year as our clubs’ President in 1993-1994, Director of the Rotary Foundation, a Paul Harris Fellow and for the never-ending involvement in all club activities throughout your years as a Rotarian. This distinction also recognises your role as District Governor in 2009-2010. Christine, you have also been chosen to become an ‘Honorary Member’ of the Rotary Club of Torquay in gratitude for all the contributions you have made to the Club and its activities and events. You have been a constant presence not only with our club but have been at Chris’s side throughout the whole time he has served in Rotary.
It is now my pleasure and honour to present you both, Chris, and Christine, with the ‘Honorary Membership Certificates’ and hope you will hang them in prominence somewhere by which your fellow Rotarians and friends will recognise you as Honorary Rotarians.
Congratulations to both of you and we hope you will still thoroughly enjoy your involvement with Rotary for many years to come.
_____________
Chris & Chrissy Sims Presented with Honorary Memberships
2021: we celebrate the Centenary of Rotary in Australia and New Zealand!
The Geelong Clubs Rotary Centenary Baton Relay began in Torquay today , with many Club members walking with President Jan Emmett and District Governor Phil Beasley to the Rob Emmett Play ground President Jan then travel through the Bellarine Peninsular into Geelong , with a display and an afternoon of activities in the garden at Christ Church cnr Moorabool & McKillop Streets, Geelong.
The celebrations and formalities in the Christ Church garden included our very own Trevor Pickles and the Shy Boys playing the music, and was an enjoyable afternoon to celebrate this momentous year in Rotary Down Under .
Most of you know local identity Michael Reed whether through his many community involvements or his photography with Arthur Reed Reed Photos, but you may not recognise him right now!
When COVID-19 first hit and shut downs occurred, Mike decided to neither shave nor have his hair cut. You can see the result here.
But the time has come for it all to come off and the question is – what is this worth?
Mike has offered himself up for a fund raising ‘shave’ on 20 December. The Rotary Club is very grateful to Mike for putting himself in this positions and hopes to really make it worth hids while. All funds raised will be used for locallocal, national and international Rotary porjects.
Torquay Rotary Club brings you Pets on Parade 2020 - our online pet show where you can showcase these favourite family members and at the same time, help us to raise funds to End Trachoma in Australia.
You're invited by the Rotary Club of Kardinia to hear from Sarah Henderson @ 6.45pm for a 7pm start. Ms Henderson is an Australian politician and former journalist. She has been a Senator for Victoria since September 2019, representing the Liberal Party. She previously held the Division of Corangamite in the House of Representatives from 2013 to 2019.
This event is a fundraiser sponsored by the Kardinia Rotary Club and all proceeds will go towards the club continuing to support Indigenous Nursing Scholarships.
Australian Rotary Health provides scholarships for medical and nursing students to undertake placements at a rural and remote health care service. Students experience what these facilities have to offer and provide an incentive for recipients to pursue a career in rural Australia upon graduation. The National Indigenous Knowledges Education Research Innovation (NIKERI) Institute at Deakin enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians the flexibility to access higher education while maintaining their family, work and community commitments.
To book please contact President Henry Brockman at henrybrockman@bigpond.com or Secretary Geoff Caddy at geoffandbron@tpg.com.au and they can add you to the meeting attendees list.
_______________
You're Invited to a Meeting with Sen. Sarah Henderson at RC Kardinia 23rd Sept
President for 2020-21 Jan Emmett and now Past President Kelly Binyon with the Rotary International Theme banner - "Rotary Opens Opportunities"
The Board for 2020-21 fr left Robyn O'Loughlin- International Director, Trevor Hall - Vocational Director, Kelly Binyon - Immediate Past President,
Greg Plumridge - Public Image Director, Rhonda Anchen Membership Director, President Jan Emmett, Maggie Isom - Secretary,
Michael Reed - Community Service Director, Ben Featherston - Youth Director, Mal Slater - Treasurer, Chris Sims - Foundation Director
(Absent, Amanda Hough - Club Service Director)
In a year when we have learned to do most things differently our Club was forced to hold a "Virtual" Function to celebrate the official change of office bearers.So having to adhere to the current Social Distancing rules we met in groups of 7 for lunch in Members homes with many other guests including Mayor Rose Hodge connecting in on ZOOM to join in the event. Out-going President Kelly Binyon recapped on the past year before handing over the reins of the Club along with the Presidents Collar, Club Charter and the Rotary International 2020-21 Theme Banner to incoming President Jan Emmett. The Club pre-recorded a video of the induction of the new Board on the Torquay foreshore, which was played during the Zoom event. The video was fittingly recorded in front of the playground named in honour of Jan's late husband Rob who had also been President of the Torquay Rotary Club back in 2001.
We wish Jan and her Team the best for the coming year which will be exciting as the Club discovers new ways to function in a COVID world.
This year's Annual Changeover of the Club will be held
on Sunday 5th July 2pm
and due to COVID-19 will be a totally different format to previous Changeover events
The Changeover ceremony will be held via ZOOM , which you can view in your own homes or join with others at various host homes-
Since the new restrictions of 5 visitors per family home , we are still able to manage this with sufficient host homes available - thanks to those members who have their offered their homes
Hosts will be organising lunch from 12 noon or afternoon tea after the Changeover
- Details of homes will be given when we know final numbers
Many Thanks to those who have responded to the invitation .
Could those who have not yet responded to the invite sent on 12th &19th June
If any "Friends of the Club" or visitors from afar would like to join us either at a host home or on ZOOM for the official proceedings, please contact our Secretary at secretarytorquayrotary@gmail.com
This is a very important event for the Club as we celebrate the achievements of the Club over the past year under the leadership of President Kelly and welcome President Elect Jan Emmett to take over the reins
Hope to see as many of you as possible attend this very important event in the Rotary year
This years Annual Changeover Luncheon of the Club will be held on Sunday 5th and due to COVID-19 will be a totally different format to previous Changeover events for which final arrangements are currently being made.
So please stay tuned for your email invitation to from me in the coming days and to assist with planning please could you please advise of your RSVP as soon as possible.
This is a very important event for the Club as we celebrate the achievements of the Club over the past year under the leadership of President Kelly and welcome President Elect Jan Emmett to take over the reins for the next Rotary Year
Thank you to an amazing team who began the 2020 Book Fair set up today - this will continue tomorrow & Tuesday , before starting sales on Thursday 23rd
Thanks to the wonderful turn up of trailers, trolleys & muscle power at Bellbrae,early this morning to transport all the books from the container to the Scout Hall in preparation for unpacking & then another team of helpers for the sorting
Special thanks to volunteers - Alison ,Oliver & Ryan Reed, Gabby Hinchy & her partner Adrian , Gail Rooney , Val Oswald Lois Gill - & of course John Hinchy - what a great effort !!
Much needed food for the troops was provided by the catering team Robyn O'Loughlin & Mary Henderson & Maggie Isom
Special thanks also must go to Paul Desbrow- Annear , Bill Trengrove & David Carlyle from the Grovedale- Waurn Ponds Rotary Club and good to see Lynda Neill helping out as well as Ken Beall back in Torquay from Canada
A great effort and just a good feeling of Comradery all day -
Monday & Tuesday will be more busy days, we hope to see as many people there to continue heavy unpacking & sorting
More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population.
Our goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. We support education for all children and literacy for children and adults.
The Parkinsons "A Walk in the Park" will be held on Sunday August 18th. For those who wish to join Pete's Pals on this years walk will be leaving on the 7.56am train from Waurn Ponds Station
All of us know at least one person that might be a good fit for Rotary, whether that person be a colleague, family member or frien
We would like you to ask them to
A Dinner with a Difference
VENUE - The Sands Torquay
Cost for Members is $25 with Drinks at Bar Prices
The Club will meet the dinner cost of guests
To assist with catering the registrations for this event will close on Friday 9th Aug
Be sure to Register your Guest/s The evening’s program will include music, a photo slide show, stories from Rotary members, a trivia quiz with prizes, fun and just getting to know each other!
The Annual Changeover Luncheon was held on Sunday 23rd June 2019 at the Sands with 62 people witnessing
President Trevor Pickles handing over the to the new President Kelly Binyon
The Mayor of the Surf Coast Shire Rose Hodge , a Paul Harris Fellow , opened the day with an acknowledgement of the traditional owners of the land. We were fortunate to have Guests from Rotary Clubs of Geelong East, Grovedale , Alfredton, Bayside, Geelong Central and Darwin North in attendance District Governor Elect Phil Beasley proposed the Toast to Rotary International & Past District Governor Alan Anderson responded to the Toast After the buffet luncheon - President Trevor presented his report and thanked all members for their support throughout the year
Munkhtuul Nyamdorf, from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, checks out the four priorities of
Rotary’s new strategic plan in the Future of Rotary Booth during the 2019 Rotary
International Convention in Hamburg. Photo by Monika Lozinska/Rotary International
By Jessie Harman, chair of the Rotary International Membership Committee and a member of the Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast, Victoria, Australia
Rotary’snew strategic planis underpinned by four key priorities – to increase our impact, expand our reach, enhance participant engagement, and increase our ability to adapt. The emergence of new club models is evidence that Rotary clubs and districts are working actively to advance these priorities.
These new club models represent an opportunity to connect with a more diverse group of individuals – particularly those who are unable or unwilling to join our traditional clubs. While new club models have been emerging for some time, the 2016 Council on Legislation decision to promote flexibility and innovation has arguably accelerated their development.
At the present time, it’s possible to recognize at least seven different types of clubs:
Traditional clubs– at the heart of Rotary: a group of professionals and aspiring leaders who meet regularly for service, connections and personal growth
Satellite clubs– sponsored by a traditional club, but with their own meetings, projects, bylaws and board
Passport clubs– that allow members to attend other Rotary club meetings and service projects, so long as they attend a specified number of meetings in their own club
Corporate clubs– whose members are employed by the same employer, but who have different roles in their workplace
Cause-based clubs– whose members share a passion for a particular cause and whose service projects and activities center around that cause, and
Rotaract clubs– sponsored by Rotary clubs, whose members are aged between 18 and 30 and who meet together for service, friendship, and connections
Amid this landscape there are also hybrids of these types – adding further to the diversity of Rotary, and there can be little doubt that new club models will continue to emerge – including the possibility of a model of participation which is not club-based.
Development of new club models and new ways to engage with Rotary is a healthy sign – indeed some would say a critical ingredient – of our ongoing sustainability and success. Our challenge is to continue to evolve – to meet the needs of our members and our communities and to ensure Rotary stays relevant, innovative,and engaging long into the future.
We will celebrate this year's theme 'Walk Together With Courage' with a light supper and guest lecture on indigenous languages with Corrina Eccles, Cultural Education Co-ordinator at Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation.
This is a free event and RSVPs are essential. Please call 5261 2583, 9am-5pm Monday to Thursday, email fiona.raw@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au or click the link below.
We will celebrate this year's theme 'Walk Together With Courage' with a light supper and guest lecture on indigenous languages with Corrina Eccles, Cultural Education Co-ordinator at Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation.
This is a free event and RSVPs are essential. Please call 5261 2583, 9am-5pm Monday to Thursday, email fiona.raw@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au or click the link below. ____________________
Our next Club activity is to assist the RSL with the Anzac Day Dawn Service & Gunfire Breakfast. If you have not yet received the email from Alan Anderson with the Roster then Click the link below
Congratulations – you did it! Rotary Club of Torquay raised an amazing $2,146.80.
Thanks to your hard work, the Surf Coast 2019 Relay has already raised $42,821.90 – with more still coming in – to help the 95 Victorians diagnosed with cancer each day.
Results from today’s (Saturday) Book Fair activities were another EXCELLENT RESULT !!!
In excess of $3100 .........…
With only one day to go , we should easily achieve the $10,000 target set by the Committee
Once again the food supplied by the catering Team was of the usual high standard we have come to expect 😊
The particular highlight today was the scones , jam & cream provided by Secretary Lesley
Thanks to all the extra volunteers today too
We do require a few more tip waste vouchers if anyone has some to spare to enable us to dump the scrap books. If you could please bring them with you today to the Scout Hall.
In Australia, farmers are the lifeblood of our country and they are in crisis. Record breaking heat and lack of rain means farmers are struggling to feed sheep and cattle, and keep crops alive. Families on the land are suffering and they need our help. Channel 9 and Rotary Australia have partnered with the National Farmers' Federation, launching an appeal to big business and everyday Australians, so we can provide some emergency relief. 100% of donations goes to the farmers and is tax deductible via Rotary and RAWCS. Every dollar counts.
The link for the donation page for the project is:
Monday night our Club was proud to recognise our long serving caterers Lorraine and Rodney Sullivan as Paul Harris Fellows. For many years their flexibility and personal service has added to the ambiance of our weekly dinner meeting.
This also represents a huge thank you to Lorraine and Rodney for your support at so many of our Club function events.
Our 2108 Motor Show Raffle has been run and won and we would like to congratulate the winners and thank everyone who purchased tickets for you support. Also to our sponsors, for without their support there would be no raffle at all. Your contributions enable our Club to support those less fortunate than ourselves locally and aboard,
1st Prize Bathurst Commemorative Bar Fridge Ticket 112 - Chris. Prize supplied by Bar Fridges Australia
Online Conference Registrations will be close Midnight Sunday 1st of April 2018. Please Contact Brian Shanahan 0438 875 289 for further registrations and queries after that date.
CLICK HERE to find out everything you need to know about the event including
A great night was had by all, it was wonderful to celebrate our Club's 30th with the extended family of our Club, including our sponsor Club Grovedale.
It was a memorable occasion and a testament to the enjoyment we gain from our Club to still have active Charter members in the Club. Big thanks to the many people who arranged the Celebration
As you will have probably seen today Rudi has placed an album of pics on the Club Facebook page which you can follow with this link PHOTO ALBUM
Thank you to those of you who have registered for our Rotary Relay for Life Team.
This years event is being held at Polworth Oval, Banyul Warri Fields
The Event will commence at 6.45pm on Friday 16th March and conclude at 3.00pm Sat 17th as per the link below.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ROSTER and remember to arrive 15 minutes before you start time and advise the walker before you that you have arrived on site and ready to go for the Torquay Rotary Club Team
If you would like any further details please contact me.
Thanks to everyone who assisted with the Book Fair Working Bee today. It was a beautiful day weather wise and much was achieved. Although there is still a lot more to be done prior to January.
District 9780 Governor Ray Herbert and his lovely wife, Deidre together with Assistant Governor Judy Beasley were our special guests at our regular Monday night dinner meeting. DG Ray had a busy day meeting with our Board members and being updated on the progress of all projects currently underway or about to be implemented by the Rotary Club of Torquay. DG Ray and ADG Judy were both very impressed with the briefing and provided positive feedback to members. Thank you also to Rob Shedden for chaperoning Deidre whilst DG Ray attended to official matters.
DG Ray presented President Elect 2018/19 Trevor Pickles with his badge of office and congratulated him on stepping up.
After three years of planning, the joint Rotary/Lions shed, which is located behind the tennis courts at the Football Oval, is ready for use. A number of Rotarians joined the Lions members for the official opening on Monday 11th September and following Sunday's Cowrie Market our BBQ trailer moved into its new home. It still requires shelving and water at a later stage. Thanks to Mal Slater, John McDonald and all others involved in this project.
On Monday 28th August Torquay Rotarians enjoyed good fellowship, good food and good wine at the homes of three of our members who graciously offered to host this year's Fireside Chats. By all accounts it was a fabulous evening and a terrific way to get to know members on a more personal level.
Rotary’s 2017-18 International President, Australia’s Ian Riseley, wants a trachoma-free Australia by 2021, Rotary’s 100th year in Australia. We are the world's only developed country with trachoma, an infectious eye disease that can be prevented with good hygiene practices. It is still present in remote Aboriginal communities and can lead to permanent blindness.to hear our Ron's challenge to beat trachoma by Australia's 100th Rotary Anniversary.
Pictures for the Rotary Club of Torquay's 2017 Presidential Changeover Lunch may be viewed by clicking on the PHOTO ALBUM button above. There are 13 photos for you to enjoy with an extra special one of Mary Elliott as she was honoured with a Paul Harris Fellowship late on Sunday afternoon 2 Jul 2017.
RSVP by Friday 16 June to Maggie Isom at marg.isom@gmail.com or Ph 0412713102
Please include names of all attendees in your group and any dietary requirements.
Cost: $45.00 per person (includes two course meal)
This will be a "Partners" function and all members and partners are encouraged to attend to join with Lesley Shedden in the celebrating the hand over the President’s badge & responsibilities to President Elect Gaynor Schols and her new team.
If you have not already done so could you please "Accept or Decline" the invitation that you received by email on the 5th June immediately.
President Lesley Shedden and members of the Torquay Rotary Club were delighted to welcome the District Governor Stephen Lamont and his wife Gaye to our 100 years celebration of Rotary Foundation.
Is a three part series of fast paced, interactive one day courses offered to refine a Rotarian's leadership skills and increase their knowledge of Rotary.
The dates for the 2017-18 Program have just been released.
The 3 full-day training courses will be held in Geelong on Aug 5, 2017, Oct 14, 2017 and Feb 3, 2018
The club generally pays the fees and registrations close on 30 June.
Who Should Attend RLI:
Rotary Clubs are encouraged to select at leasttwo candidates for RLI annually. Participants return to their Club with enthusiasm new contacts, fresh ideas, an increased understanding of their potential as Rotarians, and valuable skills impacting their potential leadership in the Club. In particular, It's good for all Rotarians but especially recommended for new members, those with board positions and Presidents Elect.
In recent years Vernon D'Souza and PE Gaynor Schols have graduated from RLI so if you are interested in the course I encourage you to discuss with either of them.
Please contact Chris Sims on 0439 209 036 for more details or
Cadel is on his way back to Australia, from the Tour de France - in readiness for our dinner next week. Get a ticket now. This is a unique opportunity to dine with Cadel and listen to Ian Cover chat with Cadel about his career as a cyclist and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. A limited number of tickets will be available for this event with such an amazing athlete to be held at the Surf Coast Hotel in Torquay. Included will be an opportunity to participate in an auction that will include a winner's jersey for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, signed by Cadel. Tickets are on sale now.
Monday 27 February 201 7 saw Torquay Rotarians gathering on the front patio area at Jan Juc Surf Club with drinks and nibbles. enjoying the fellowship and taking in the million-dollar beach views. For the second year in a row we had picked the weather.
Our host and chef for the evening, Jan Juc life member, Greg Touzel, had assembled a group of Jan Juc club volunteers, including Graeme and Sandy Kennedy. to set up the venue and prepare the food. Rotary President Lesley was amused to learn that Greg is widely known throughout the Torquay community by his lifesaving nickname of "Pig '.
We were then joined by a panel of Jan Juc young gun lifesavers and their mothers on our tables to share in the meal. After a hearty and tasty meal of steak, salad. potato and all the trimmngs or the vegetarian option, Pig introduced the first of his panel members Charlie Dent. Using a question answer format and prompted by Pig's probing we learned that young Charlie has already had a strong involvement in school and leadership activates, has been successful in surf lifesaving competitions, has already earned the title of Juc lifesaver of the month and has been appointed Patrol captain, responsible for beach safety on busy summer days on Jan Juc beach. Like most of the panelists Charlie started at a young age with the Jan Juc Rippers learning water and lifesaving skills from such experienced mentors as Greg Touzel. John Jacoby and Doug Bartlett.
Next Isabella Heather. an outstanding young boat rower explained how she planned to use her experiences in aquatics to fashion a career in leadership activities. professional life guarding and perhaps as a personal trainer.
Drew Green is a champion swimmer who has scored many achievements in open water swims and carnivals and is a member of the Victorian state team.
This was followed by a short break for desert
Greg then introduced David Inguanti who is mixing a successful academic career and university course with training and competition in canoeing and kayaking. David is a member of Barwon Sports Academy and a member of the Victorian State canoe team. After winning the Australian K2 and coming second in the Ki championships, he competed in the world championships in Germany. He also patrols and competes in carnivals for Jan Juc. After a stellar VCE score he has enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering and Biomedical Science double degree at Monash University. 'This is aimed at a career in designing advanced technology and bio medical innovation such as a bionic eye or 4d lung imaging method. David is clearly a gifted scholar and gifted athlete who has developed his skills from the Nippers program on within Jan Juc surf club. He and his mother Masree were also great dinner guests at my table.
After the young guns. Pig introduced an old hand to lifesaving in Daryl Moss (Mossy) who outlined an amazing career in lifesaving leadership development and mentoring over a period of some 40 years which has earned him a life membership of Jan Juc surf club and the DHL Volunteer of the year award at the Surf Lifesaving National awards of Excellence 201 6 recognising his massive contribution through mentoring and fund raising programs at Jan Juc
Tea and coffee was served. By this time we were gob smacked at the amount of talent being nurtured within Jan Juc Surf Lifesaving Club among such fine Australian young adults. As we left the Jan Juc volunteers began packing up the room and the kitchen area. Thanks Greg Touzel and your team for another uplifting event at Jan Juc Surf Club.
To view photos of the 2017 Torquay Motor Show Class Winners, you go to our Motorshow Website and then click on the link "Gallery" (See link below on left)
Alternatively you may wish to view these in 2 Photo Albums on our - Facebook page. (see link below)
Torquay Rotary Fitness Trail launched in time for Christmas
The official launch of four new fitness stations on Torquay’s foreshore marks an early Christmas gift from the Torquay Rotary Club to the local community.
“With our beautiful beach as a backdrop, locals and visitors alike can now enjoy a gym work-out in the open air – in between enjoying their usual walk or jog along the Torquay Front Beach foreshore,” said Torquay Rotary Club President Lesley Shedden.
“After three years of planning and fundraising, it is a thrill to see this major Rotary project finally come to fruition to benefit our community.”
Spaced along the foreshore footpath, each of the four stations provides unique exercise functionality, offering the ability to target specific muscle groups. One station, for example, targets calves, quadriceps and thighs while another biceps, triceps, pectorals and shoulders.
Together, the Torquay Rotary Fitness Trail affords users a total body work-out.
After much consideration the equipment chosen was ordered from A_Space, a company who Design and Manufacture in locally in Melbourne. Their “Fit for Parks” equipment meets all Australian Safety Standards, does not contain any dangerous crush points and was able to be manufactured in a special “Marine Grade” finish for added protection given our harsh coastal climate. In the past 4 years their equipment has been used in more than 200 projects all over Australia.
According to Ms Shedden, the club raised $23,000 to help fund the project and worked closely with the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee on developing and installing the new trail.
“We are very grateful to our project sponsors – RACV, Torquay Community Enterprise and Surf Coast Medical Clinic – for their generous support and to GORCC for providing assistance with constructing the equipment on-site. Thanks also go to the members of the local community who also contributed to the project through “Bendigo Bank Communities” crowd funding platform promoted via social media, which is a new concept in fundraising for these types of community project recently rolled out by the Bendigo Bank
“On behalf of the Torquay Rotary Club, I thank all concerned in helping to make this project a reality and trust everyone will enjoy and benefit from using this new equipment,” Ms Shedden said.
The Torquay Rotary Annual Christmas function was held at the Torquay Hotel this year and what a lively night of chatter, song and merriment it was.
Rotarian Maggie Isom announced her retirement from the paid workforce after many many years, but would continue her work with Rotary and other charities.
Trevor Pickles led us on guitar to 4 rousing Christmas Carols (all verses) which was enjoyed by many. We also said "Goodbye" to Trevor Brown and wished him well on his solo sail across Bass Strait to Tassie.
On behalf of the Torquay Rotary John McDonald (pictured with Cr Rose Hodge) gratefully accepted a Small Grants award from the Surfcoast Shire for the purchase of a laptop computer. John spoke well in thanking the Shire and snuck in a promotion for all our upcoming Rotary fundraising events.
Did anyone see the "Thank You" from the Mayor in the latest Surfcoast Times? Reproduced below, with a partial photo of our President Lesley Shedden distributing sausages.
The Torquay Djila Tjarri Park, Play and Skate Park on Merrjig Road, was opened today at 2.30 pm by the Mayor Rose Hodge and members of Federal and State Parliament. It is a wonderful addition to the infrastructure of our Torquay Community. Rotary was on hand to cook and distribute sausages.
Posted by John McDonald - Secretary on Jul 07, 2016
The wheels of Progress turn slowly but good things come to those who wait !!!
Here is an update on our 2 large forthcoming Construction Projects -
a: Fitness Trail : Rotarian Ben Smith and I had a very constructive meeting with Phil Brown ,Acting Foreman GORCC and finalised the construction details for this project , It was agreed Rotary would order and pay for the equipment. Current delivery date is July 26 in Melb. Ben Smith will arrange to collect it from the Fabrication Factory, transport it to Torquay where it will be stored by GORRC until required for installation. In the meantime GORRC will arrange for the preparation of the sites including any necessary excavation, installation of concrete bases, suitable cover over the concrete and framework to stop the spreading of loose material. Rotary will then install the frames of the different pieces of equipment at each site.
b. Trailer Storage Shed:Surf Coast Shire approval has now been granted for our ( Lions and Rotary) preferred site at the Recreation Reserve. The next step in the process will be to meet with the Lions Club to finalise the Design and get quotes for the construction of the shed. Rotarian Geoff Dawson has kindly volunteered to lead the process on our behalf. Any other member who wishes to volunteer to help Geoff will be most welcome. It has been assumed that Mal Slater, should he ever return, will be our QA manager!!
Posted by Rudi and Maggie and the Brewins on Jul 03, 2016
Gaynor and I visited Mary Elliott yesterday (Sun 26 Jun) and were pleased to see she has improved greatly in the past few weeks. Although our stay was short, Mary was not without company. As we were preparing to leave her son Rickand husband Ken appeared, as did many other visitors during the day. Including Maggie, who took this lovely photo of Mary. We all wish Mary a very speedy recovery and that she will soon be back at our Rotary Club and taking pictures of the sunrise in Torquay. We miss you Mary.
The Brewins visited Mary after our Annual Changeover meeting 3 July 2016 and have sent another photo.
The RYDA program is a road safety education program for 17 – 18 year old students.
This Rotary program was initiated 14 years ago by members in the northern suburbs of Sydney. Since then over 400,000 students across Australia and NZ have had the opportunity to attend this outstanding program for young people.
The RYDA program aims to reduce the number of teenagers killed and injured on our roads each year and is a one day school excursion which involves six interactive sessions presented by professional facilitators. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes that will contribute to their safe and responsible behaviour as drivers and passengers.
The RYDA program content is provided by not-for-profit organisation Road Safety Education and is funded by Rotary Clubs, a small student fee, and support from Local Government grants and local business sponsorship.
Earlier this year the Rotary Clubs in the Geelong area were contacted by Wayne Pecar, President of the Rotary Club of Queenscliff seeking pledges of funding from Rotary Clubs to assist in the launching of a RYDA Pilot Program in the Geelong area. As a result the Board of the Rotary Club of Torquay agreed to a pledge of $200.00.
We have now been advised that RYDA is happening on Thursday 11th August at Beckley Park! The day is scheduled to commence at 8.30am and to go through until 2.30pm
At the moment three schools are participating , three Rotarians have expressed interest in being trained as facilitators for the program in the future, and a further three have offered to be on the RYDA organising committee . The program still needs more committee members and facilitators with experience as driving instructors or with working with young people. On 11th August the RYDA committee will need volunteers to guide student groups around the venue.
If you are able to attend on the 11th August and assist in any capacity it would be most appreciated if you could contact me as soon as possible.
Lois and Graham Gill have recently returned from Cebu in the Philippines, where they visited daughter Dr Melinda, husband Sam and grandchildren Benjamin and Grace.
The highlight – in addition to enjoying the family visit – was getting a firsthand visit to Sam’s business.
About two years ago Sam took part in a Government project where he heard about the problems women have in trying to escape prostitution and violence in the home. At times they were able to find employment, but if that finished, they inevitably returned to prostitution – the lifestyle they knew.
Sam was so moved by the presentation that he decided to investigate and plan a business model to try and help these people break out of the lifestyle. He resigned from his job with the Deutsch Bank, and moved from Manila to Cebu to start an IT business which could train these people and give them the prospect of meaningful work. Now, with the help of World Vision and other homes for young people he is able to source staff who would most benefit from the type of employment he offers.
The business model is teaching needy people to develop computer skills and now, 2 years from starting, he has developed a relationship with some large corporations who support this vision and provide contracts.
On their last night in Cebu, the Gills went out to dinner with all the staff – the first time in a restaurant for many of them. It was very touching to see the wonderful way Sam is helping these young people.
Gaynor and Rudi Schols told us about their trip to South Korea and the 107th Rotary International Convention, in Seoul
The highlights of the Convention included:
The changeover of RI Presidents from KR Ravindran (Sri Lanka) to John F Germ (Chattanooga, Tennessee). President John's theme for 2016/17 will be "Rotary Serving Humanity".
The President Elect is Ian Risely, from the Rotary Club off Sandringham, Victoria, Australia.
The next International Convention will be in Atlanta, Georgia from 10-14 June 2017. To register click on http://www.rotaryconvention2017.org
Gaynor highlighted two of the convention talks in particular:
1. "Until All are Free: How to End Slavery in Our Lifetime", Gary Haugen, CEO of International Justice Mission (IJM) -
There are an estimated 46 million slaves in 167 countries. That's three times the number taken from Africa during 400 years of Atlantic slave trading.
4 Billion people live outside the protection of the law - police, courts and laws are broken, corrupt and dysfunctional so there is nothing to shield poor people from violence.
IJM partner with local authorities to rescue victims, bring criminals to justice, restore survivors and strengthen justice systems.
There is a ROTARY ACTION GROUP AGAINST CHILD SLAVERY (RACSRAG). For further information please go to www.racsrag.org or contact Gaynor for a newsletter.
2. "The End of Orphanages: Another Milestone in the making for Rotary International" - Mark Waddington, CEO, Hope and Home for Children -
The vision is a world in which children no longer suffer institutional care
It is a proven fact that every 3 months spent in an institution before the age of 3 stunts a child's growth by one month
In the last year Hope and Home have closed 18 orphanages, freeing 1,429 children
and placing them in families.
They have trained 3,576 volunteers and professionals to support 160,000 children in vulnerable families.
Rudi also updated us on Polio Eradication, for which Rotary has pledged another US$35 million:
Polio Type 2 has been eradicated from the world
There have only been 16 cases of Wild Polio Virus Type 1 in 2016
Only 2 countries remain endemic, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Nigeria has not had a case since August 2014.
Videos of all the Convention presentations are available at the "My Rotary" website
If you cannot meet one of your assigned duties, Please contact Maggie Isom to advise.
The duty team should arrive no later than 6:00 p.m. Besides the below duties, the assigned team is responsible for Room Setup, Greeting Members and Guests, and Room Tidy at the end of our meeting - see checklist in storeroom or click here .
Date
Duty Team
Program
Chair
GREETING
INVOCATION
Event details
Sun 3 July
Amanda Hough
Lesley Shedden
John McDonald
Maggie Isom
Mayor Rose Hodge
Welcome
SURF COAST HOTEL
THE ESPLANADE
TORQUAY
Mon 4 July
No meeting
Following Changeover
Mon 11 July
Lesley Shedden
Gerard McNamara
Linda Neale
New Rotary Year Committees
Mon 18 July
Lesley Shedden
Trevor Pickles
Amanda Hough
TBD
Mon 25 July
Lesley Shedden
Alan Anderson
PDG Chris Sims
District Governor Stephen Lamont Visit
Mon Aug 1
Lesley Shedden
Maggie Isom
Gail Chrisfield
Mayor Surf Coast Shire
Rose Hodge
Please note: The assigned Chairperson for the evening is responsible for writing a short review on the topic presented by the guest speaker of the night and for emailing the review to the Bulletin editor by noon of the following Wednesday
The Torquay Rotary Book Fair raised much needed funds for the Strive2Thrive program currently operating in Geelong. Strive2Thrive is a program, which empowers men and women in the Geelong region to regain life after a cancer treatment. Dr Karen White, Barb Cummins and Sue Bowles delivered an informative seminar detailing the program’s framework and outcomes.
Proceeds and sponsorship totaling $6500 was presented to this worthy organisation. Supporters and sponsors of the Book Fair were present to enjoy the evening.
It was wonderful to see Mayor Rose Hodge and so many Torquay businesses and clubs getting behind the Book Fair ensuring its success.
18 April 2016 Rotary Book Fair Community Celebration
The length & breadth we go to to get a good speaker. For this weeks' speaker we ventured as far as Geelong West for Zoe Waters. Zoe is Geelong Hospital's (AKA Barwon Health AKA University Hospital) Volunteer Co-ordinator. She has a Social Work background, and is clearly skilled in marketing & promotion. She's been working with Jim Marendaz from Geelong West Rotary, to provide Patient Vehicle Transport in the Geelong region, and with our assistance, the service will be expanded deeper into the Surf Coast.
Zoe spoke of the service, skills & hours that hundreds of Volunteers put in for the hospital.
I would also like to mention one particular Volunteer who stood out when I was a Nurse there some years ago. This beautifully groomed, high heeled lady seemed to always be coming in or out of a lift, talking to patients, couriering to every corner of the building. Always smiling & gracious. As it turned out, she was the Mum, Cath, of our own, Greg Plumridge.
Amanda Hough
This years Dawn Service will be on Monday 25th April , starting at 4.30am for us Rotarians
We should expect another massive crowd , we will have our normal activities of car parking, crowd control, program distribution & donation collection to assist the RSL on the day.
We have organised Raffle tickets for the ANZAC Bar Fridge the collectable ANZAC print @ $2 a ticket & will be distributed to members next week.
Raffle Ticket sales can be sold before the event & outside the Gun Fire breakfast tent on ANZAC morning .
I will be advising members at our Monday Meeting on April 18, of our requirements & their specific tasks .
It is important that you advise me if you are NOT available on that day. 0405146443 0r johnmcdonald78@bigpond.com
During a morning run, Sean Purcell's heart stopped beating. He collapsed and landed face first in the water on White's Beach, Torquay, Victoria. What happened next was truly remarkable.
A group of quick-thinking locals came together to administer life-saving CPR that kept Sean alive long enough to enable Paramedics to stabilize him and airlift him to Hospital.
Sean's prognosis was bleak; if he was to survive, doctors thought he was likely to suffer permanent brain damage. But Sean survived and thrived. On Monday night Shaun told us his story: the collapse, the five-day coma, the journey of recovery and his quest to find and thank the locals who saved his life, which went global!
Sean is now committed to sharing this story, hoping to shed light on the importance of CPR training and accessibility to public defibrillators. In his role with Cotton On community projects, he has headed up The Unite Project, putting a water bottle to market that will assist in housing homeless youth Australia wide.
What a wonderful community response to our 2016 fund raising Rotary Torquay MOTORSHOW held yesterday, 14th Feb 2016. A great day was had by all, I'm sure.
None more so than Graham Cronin who, along with his 1963 Studebaker Avanti, took out the OUTRIGHT WINNER award and trophy
The Torquay & Geelong West Rotary Book Fair has been another highly successful fundraising event for our club, raising many $$$ for the "Strive to Thrive" cause.
A huge thanks to one of our newest members, Rhonda Anchen for the great job coordinating the event and to her team of volunteers who ably assisted.
Pictured (L-R) Torquay Rotary President - Amanda Hough, Surfcoast Shire Mayor - Rose Hodge, and Rotarian - Rhonda Anchen
Photo from our successful book show 23 - 25 Jan 16
It’s time again for our annual fun event – the Graeme Price Memorial Golf Game, especially designed for non-golfers. So join in and win the Trophy, anyone can.
The game will be held at the RACV Resort Golf Course on Monday 2nd March.
This will be followed with catered dinner, awards and some Rotary business at Brewin’s place at 41 Golden Beach Way, Torquay.
BE AT THE COURSE AT 3.00PM FOR PAYMENT AND INSTRUCTIONS
GAME STARTS AT 4.00PM.
Don’t worry if you haven’t played golf, most haven’t. Limited numbers of golf clubs will be available free on request to any golf committee members.
Sign up yourself and your friends for the fun of it. If you don’t have a team of four that’s okay, we’ll find you places. We can arrange for a golfer in your team if wanted.
This is a nine-holes social game with novelty rules for the non-golfer. It will all be explained.
The team gets one free kick of the ball per hole and you hit your ball from the best-placed ball on the fairway. So don’t worry about going in the water or bushes.
There are prizes for the winning team, straightest drive, longest drive and nearest the pin. The winners also get the trophy.
If you really don’t want to play golf, then we have the New Chums Putting and Chipping competition in the practice area. Prizes here also.
PLEASE REGISTER YOURSELF AND FRIENDS NOW BY EMAILING
We need to have the numbers to prepare the draw and for catering by
24th February
Here are your choices and the costs:
Event and Cost
Novelty golf only
$18
Novelty golf and dinner
$43
New Chums Putting and Chipping only
$18
New Chums Putting and Chipping and dinner
$43
Dinner only
$25
JOIN IN, IT’S GREAT FUN TIME.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A GOLFER, MOST PLAYERS AREN’T!!
Dress standards at the Course: Neat casual, collared shirt, soft flat shoes
For Further details please talk to one of the Golf Committee members: Darrel Brewin, Graham Gill, Graeme Kennedy, Greg Birchall, Peter Hehir, John McDonald, Richard Mierzejewski
Congratulations to the Outright Winner Chris Webb with his immaculate 1953Jaguar: XK120 DHC Having been crowned winner of Class: 11 - "Best Jaguar" the judges concluded that this was the best car in show.
President Gerard McNamara recently presented PP Peter Bollen with a $500 sponsorship cheque on behalf of his team, Bollens Babes (pictured) who participated in the Walk in the Park for Parkinsons. Peter is an Ambassador for Parkinsons
Rotary Radio is on 94.7 the Pulse the first Tuesday of every month at 12-1.00 pm.
If you are having trouble getting to a radio to listen to Rotary Radio on a Tuesday, then you can subscribe to this program as a Podcast for free. You can then listen to the programs any time you wish. You can also listen to individual episodes? If so then simply Click Here and play the session you choose.
This program is supported by the District Public Relations grant for all clubs in District 9780 to promote their projects. Live streaming means that this can be listened to globally via your computer. Click below to listen live....
The Rotary Club of Torquay is offering two 3rd year building industry apprentices the opportunity of a lifetime.
The Club will be sending a work team to Fiji in May 2014 to build affordable housing for local villagers. The intention is to provide two local apprentices with the opportunity to be part of that team. Those participating will gain some insight into living conditions in a developing country and also have the opportunity to give something back to those communities.
The ROTAHOME project is based at Koroipita which is near Lautoka in Fiji and involves building low cost accommodation for local villagers. The work team will be away for two weeks. The successful applicants will each be provided with $2,000 sponsorship towards the cost of airfares, accommodation and meals.
A Rotary Team on the job construction Rotahomes at Koroipita in Fiji
We are particularly seeking 3rd year building apprentices who will have valuable trade skills to offer to the team as well as being able to assist with “on the job” training to the local workers on the project. The personal development and life skills opportunities from this trip will be life changing for the participants.
If you are and employer of, or know of a 3rd year apprentice who may be interested then please ask them to send a written application to Rotarian Gerard McNamara c/- Rotary Club of Torquay at PO Box 341, Torquay 3228. The applicant should state their full name, postal address, contact phone number, age and trade and include written approval from the tradesman to whom they are apprenticed. Initial inquiries can also be made to Mr. McNamara by contacting him on his mobile, 0407 780 619. All applicants will need to have their own passports. Applications should be at the Rotary Club address by close of business 31st December 2013.
The Rotary Club of Torquay recognised the hard work of two of its members last Friday night
One of the final responsibilities for retiring President Peter Bollen was to recognise Rotarians Darrel Brewin and Rob Harris as Paul Harris Fellows.
The presentation of Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. It is named after our founder, Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer who started Rotary International with three business associates in 1905.
Darrel Brewin who is well known for his work as Chairman of the Surf Coast “Relay for Life” event is a Past President of the Rotary Club and has been heavily involved in organising the Club Golf Day fundraiser.
Rob Harris, also a Past President of the club was momentarily left speechless following his recognition as a Paul Harris Fellow. Rob has been a Rotarian for 30 years at four different Clubs in Tasmania and Victoria.
Rob later said that “this was one of the proudest moments in his life….and that of the four clubs he had been a member of, his time at the Torquay Rotary Club had been his most enjoyable”
The Rotary Club of Torquay held its annual function for the changeover of office bearers Friday 14th June at The Sands.
This was the first Changeover event in District 9780 and was an event with a difference.
President Peter Bollen recognised Paul Harris Fellows, Past Presidents Darrel Brewin and Rob Harris before handing over the reins of the Club to Jeanette Crowther for 2013-14.
Pres. Jeanette presented her new Board (well at least the ones who are still in the Country) Then the celebrations began with Poppin Circus Girl Bronwyn Beard and her Circus Troupe who entertained us all. A recently formed band with President Jeanette’s Husband Rod on lead vocals then provided the dance music. Retiring President Peter Bollen passes the Presidents Collar to incoming President for 2013-14 Jeanette Crowther
The 2013 Rotary Club of Torquay Motor Show what a success!!!
Despite the forecast of clearing showers Torquay turned on a perfect day of sunshine and the cars came in their 100's. A record crowd of spectators were provided with a stunning display of cars from all ages. Thanks must go (a) to the entire membership of the Rotary Club of Torquay who managed to put this event together (b) The entrants without whom there would be no show (c) Gary & Karen Grant and their judging team who somehow got through some 400 cars and delivered the results on time (d) The many sponsors & vendors who provided assistance before and on the day......and finally the 1,000's of spectators who came from far and wide, even several overseas visitors.
This day has been a record breaking event for our club with close to $20,000 nett being raised 100% of which will go to Local, National and International Rotary Projects
This years Outright winner Daryl Meek with his 1904 Ellis - A record number stunning cars and scenery
Rotary International, the world's first service club organization, is made up of over 45,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Its members form a global network of business and professional leaders who volunteer their time and talents to serve their communities and the world.
This history summary demonstrates some of the projects the Rotary Club of Torquay has undertaken over its 20 years of service. Click here to see the history.
Welcome to the Rotary Club of Torquay's website (based in Torquay, Victoria, Australia). Our Club was formed in 1988. It has a strong, local community focus. At any one time, the Club supports a range of local, district, national and international projects. www.torquayrotary.org.au
The town of Torquay is the starting point of the world famous Great Ocean Road (click here). Many Rotarians who are on holiday from around the world often visit our Club, where they are always made most welcome.
If you would like to do a make-up at our Club, or would like to become a member of Rotary in the town of Torquay, you are always welcomed!
To inform us of your attendance, and learn about any potential functions during your time of visit, please contact our Club at the telephone number listed at the top of our web site.
Rotary International provides training opportunities for all Rotarians. The Rotary E-Learning Center is your online resource for the independent study of Rotary, particularly for new members and club officers.
Adherence to and promotion of the highest ethical standards in all occupations, including fair treatment of employers, employees, associates, competitors, and the public.
The recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, not just those that are pursued by Rotarians.
The contribution of your vocational talents to solving the problems of society and meeting the needs of the community.
Adherence to and promotion of the highest ethical standards in all occupations, including fair treatment of employers, employees, associates, competitors, and the public.
The recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, not just those that are pursued by Rotarians.
The contribution of your vocational talents to solving the problems of society and meeting the needs of the community
by Carl-Willhelm Stenhammar, Chairman of The Rotary Foundation
It is interesting to note that three countries – India, Japan, and the United States – alone account for 46 per cent of the Rotary population worldwide.
Together with Korea and Taiwan, they are among the largest contributors to The Rotary Foundation. This is, of course, of greatest importance to The Rotary Foundation, as the possibility for it to support various programs is totally dependent on contributions from Rotarians, clubs, and Districts. I am happy that in spite of the world financial crisis, Rotarians have been very generous and supported their own Rotary Foundation. This is something that we shall never forget – The Rotary Foundation belongs to the Rotarians.
.png)
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.JPG)
.jpg)
.jpg)
For all those who missed Wednesday the 21st Dec 2016 Age newspaper, here's a copy. It feature's our very own Book FAIR
Did anyone see the "Thank You" from the Mayor in the latest Surfcoast Times? Reproduced below, with a partial photo of our President Lesley Shedden distributing sausages.
Snapped in our local newspaper the ECHO our own Ben Smith and Gaynor Schols, on what will be the Rotary Fitness park on the Torquay foreshore..jpg)
Gaynor and I visited Mary Elliott yesterday (Sun 26 Jun) and were pleased to see she has improved greatly in the past few weeks. Although our stay was short, Mary was not without company. As we were preparing to leave her son Rick
.JPG)
.JPG)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.jpg)
This program is supported by the District Public Relations grant for all clubs in District 9780 to promote their projects. Live streaming means that this can be listened to globally via your computer. Click below to listen live....
