Rotary Club supports budding Science studentsAs part of its program to support community programs, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy (RCPF) has teamed with other Warrnambool-based Rotary clubs to sponsor students' attendance at the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) to be held in January 2025. This will be the second time the club has joined this collaborative program. |
|||||||
Local "hero" receives special Rotary recognition award
Jill Gleeson, a longstanding member of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy, was recently awarded a "District Governor's Outstanding Service Recognition award". |
|||||||
Vale Gordon Harman
It is with a degree of sadness that the Rotary Club of Port Fairy acknowledges the passing of former Club President, Gordon Harman. Gordon joined the Rotary Club in 2000 and served until June 2012. He took over the role of President in 2004 at a very challenging time when the Club membership was at an all-time low of some 9 members. He passed on the role in 2004/5 to Alan Rasmussen and between them they gradually restored the membership back towards the long term average membership of around 20. |
|||||||
Rotary Club supports Community projects
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy recently distributed $13,336 back into community projects from monies it accrued from its 23/24 fundraising efforts. Rotary clubs are obliged to distribute all fundraising monies raised back into community projects and the $13,336 was covered by the $15,302 raised from fundraising in 23/24. The remaining balance of $1,996, at 30th June 2024, will be carried over into the next Rotary year to support secondary students attending the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) to be held in Canberra in January 2025. |
|||||||
Special Rotary award for Rotarian Bill Moore
At its meeting held at the Star of the West Hotel last night, members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy were delighted when President, Andrew Long, awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship to Bill Moore in recognition of his services to the Club and community. |
|||||||
Rotary Club Changover Dinner 2024
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held its annual Changeover Dinner for 2024 where, traditionally, the Club Presidency changes hands. However, moving into Rotary year 2024-25, the club will be led by the same joint-presidents that were elected for 23-24. In this regard, apart for a few minor changes to other Board members, joint Presidents - Jed Macartney and Andrew Long remain at the helm - meaning there was little change going into the new Rotary year. Nevertheless, it was an opportunity for Club members to gather in what was a fairly low key event.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club's Winter Trivia Quiz - a great success!
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held its annual Winter Trivia Quiz as part of the 2024 Port Fairy Winter Weekends Festival on Saturday 8th June 2024. The event was held at the Port Fairy Senior Citizen's Rooms. Fifty competitors, making up eight teams, enjoyed a fun few hours testing their mettle over 6 rounds of 10 questions that were set by Rotary's "Quiz Master", Michael Crowe. A ninth team, comprising the fantastic people working in the kitchen preparing the scrumptious afternoon tea, which was served at the mid-way point, formed an add-on 9th team. The winning team could only be separated by a "quick-fire" tie-breaker round of 5 questions. |
|||||||
Report on Rotary Club Fashion Parade
The Rotary Club Fashion Parade 2024 was held on 19th April the Port Fairy Presbyterian Church hall. The event was a good fundraiser for the Club with approx $1000 raised towards Rotary's community projects. Many thanks to Decked Out on Bank for their involvement and sponsorship of this event, and to the public that attended the Fashion Parade and the Rotarians and others that doubled as models on the day! |
|||||||
Rotary Club's latest environmental project gets underway!
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy's project to enhance the walkway to the Moyne River walking bridge - between Gipps Street and the bridge - came to fruition last Tuesday, 23rd April when a small gang of willing volunteers completed Stage 1 of the project. This involved laying down mulch and planting over 300 small shrubs in the garden beds each side of the walkway. |
|||||||
Inspirational speaker - Tommy Quick - presents his story to Rotary Club
At its meeting on 8th April 2024 the Rotary Club of Port Fairy hosted guest speaker, Tommy Quick, who told us of his life's challenges since suffering a stroke at age 12. Tommy's talk highlighted his inspirational journey's to raise monies for the Australian Stroke Foundation and his 4-points challenge - a 9000 Km ride to visit all four of the extreme points of Australia. |
|||||||
Prize winners drawn for Wilma Preston painting raffle.
Rotary Annual Painting Raffle - winner announced. The Rotary Club of Port Fairy finalised its annual Wilma Preston Painting Raffle on Saturday 27th January 2024 with the drawing of prize winners taking place at the Community market in Port Fairy. The winner of the 1st Prize (Wilma Preston painting) was Liz Kenna of Port Fairy. |
|||||||
Rotary gets an update on the Bandari project
At its meeting on 27th November 2023, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy welcomed guests - Seif Sakata and Martin Dunstan from the Bandari project. In introducing Martin, Seif recognised the long-standing relationship between Bandari and the Rotary club as it was Rotary that first helped Seif get started on providing support to the children in his home town of Mto Wambu in Tanzania. In those early days, the Club helped send the first batch of support equipment to Tanzania and also had some of our Club's members pioneer visits to MtoWambu to start the first building project. |
|||||||
RC of Port Fairy welcomes District Governor, Ian McKay
At its dinner meeting on 13th November, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy hosted Ian McKay, District Governor for Rotary District 9780. Ian now lives in Mount Gambier but was formerly a Principal at Kings College in Warrnambool. The meeting was essentially a social event with a chance for Ian to meet members and also deliver a short speech covering his goals and vision for Rotary year 2023/24. He was accompanied by Assistant Governor, Janey Preston, from the Rotary Club of Warrnambool Daybreak. |
|||||||
Open Gardens Expo 2023 - the best ever!
Rotary Club of Port Fairy Open Gardens Expo - a great success! On Sunday 12th November 2023, the Rotary Club held its annual Open Gardens Expo and 2023 was rated as the "best ever". Around 325 paying guests enjoyed four magnificent gardens located in Port Fairy, Rosebrook and Illowa - all uniquely different but a credit to their owners. The Club is grateful for the generosity of all of the garden owners who willingly opened up their properties on the day and particularly to Rosebrook Manor which also doubled as the place where refreshments were served.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club supports Youth programs
Rotary Club of Port Fairy supports the Great South Coast Science & Engineering Challenge 2023. The Port Fairy Rotary Club, along with other volunteers from other Rotary clubs in Warrnambool, assisted at the Great South Coast Science & Engineering Challenge 2023, which was held at Deakin University in August. The Challenge is organised annually by the University of Newcastle. South West coordinator, Brooke Jensen, from the Rotary Club of Warrnambool, organised the Great South Coast region's event this year. The Challenge involved students from years 9 and 10 representing six local secondary schools. On Challenge day, the students from Kings College, Warrnambool, were the eventual winners. Their winning score was also the highest score recorded from all the other regions in Victoria in 2023 and this earned them the right to represent their state at the national titles to be held in Sydney in October. |
|||||||
Vocational award for postie Stephen DwyerLocal postie - Stephen Dwyer - was awarded a "Pride of Workmanship" award by the Rotary Club of Port Fairy at its meeting on 17th July 2023.  The award recognises Stephen's exceptional vocational service in delivering mail in Port Fairy and surrounds for many years. Pride of Workmanship awards have occasionally been bestowed on local identities by the Rotary Club but only around five have been awarded in the past twenty five years.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club of Port Fairy Changeover Dinner 2023  The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held its 2023 Changeover Dinner on Monday 26th June at The Sentinel Restaurant in Port Fairy. Rotarians, partners and special guests made up the 48 people attending the dinner which honoured the out-going President, Graeme Cox, who passes on the reins to the new - and joint Presidents - Jed Macartney and Andrew Long.
|
|||||||
Rotary wants you! Student Exchange programme
Rotary Wants You! The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is seeking interested students from Years 9, 10 and 11. The Rotary Youth Exchange Programme seeks students who are interested in paricipating in a live and study abroad opportunity. As part of this programme, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy has, in recent years, sponsored two students on an out-bound Youth Exchange programme and is now looking for potential, new particpants in Rotary year 23/24. |
|||||||
Guest speaker Joan Hose updates Rotary on Meals on Wheels
The Rotary Club's Guest Speaker at its meeting on 20th March was Joan Hose from Moyne Health Services (MHS). Joan recently took over the administration of the Meals on Wheels (MOWs) program and gave an insight into the program and the valuable work that all volunteers undertake for MHS. Rotarian are regularly rostered onto the MOWs calendar taking a week-ling booking every second month.
|
|||||||
Tony Murray - a new addition to the Rotary Club
At its meeting on 6th March 2023 the Rotary Club of Port Fairy was excited to induct two new members - greatly enhancing the ranks of the Club. Apart from the induction of Ashley King as a Corporate Member (see separate story) it was a pleasure to formally induct Tony Murray who has transferred from the Rotary Club of Doncaster to our club when he retired to Port Fairy in 2022. Tony is an experienced Rotarian and has already proven to be a great benefit to our club by engaging with numerous volunteering activities in cluding our summer raffle at the market,selling Car Raffle tickets in Sackville Street, manning gates at the Port Fairy Folk Festival, catering at the Port Fairy Marathon and registering to be a regular volunteer for Meals on Wheels.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club inducts its first Corporate member
The Rotary Club meeting held on 6th March 2023 was a milestone event in the life of the Club when it inducted its first ever Corporate Member. Recognising the growing importance that Australian businesses place on corporate social responsibility, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy has created a Corporate Membership option, to provide businesses with the opportunity to participate in Rotary's established community service projects. Employees of local businesses that partner with Rotary in Corporate Membership are invited to participate in all Rotary activities without committing personally to the obligations expected of regular individual members. Additionally, participation in Rotary provides employees with personal development opportunities potentially through project leadership and public speaking. After creating the Corporate Membership class, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy then engaged with the Community Bank of Port Fairy & District to take up the corporate membership option. Ashley King, as the Bank's Company Secretary, was chosen to represent the Bank and be inducted as a Corporate member into the Rotary Club with a short ceremony conducted by Club President, Graeme Cox. |
|||||||
Raffle Razzle
Each Summer Port Fairy Rotary raffles a painting by well-known local painter Wilma Preston. This year's painting featured a stunning beach scene. The raffle raised $950 that will go to the Club's charitable distributions. The happy winner was local (and Rotarian) Michael Crowe. Michael said he was delighted to take off the prize. Winner Michael Crowe with artist Wilma Preston
|
|||||||
Rotarians cook up a "marathon" breakfastAround a dozen Rotarians held a "marathon" cooking event when they catered for spectators at the 2023 Port Fairy Marathon on 19th February. The setup crew worked in the early morning dark -starting around 6:15am - to setup the gazebo and BBQ before cooking got underway around 7am.  All up, over 120 egg and bacon rolls were cooked and sold out by 11am. It was a great community event, the second time the Marathon has been run in Port Fairy, with over 1300 entrants running over various distances from the full 42km marathon race to shorter distances for school children and supporting parents. |
|||||||
Vale Rotarian Geoff CoxallIt is with a sad note that we report the passing of Rotarian Geoff Coxall. Geoff was a long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy.  In recent years Geoff has fought bravely to recover firstly from a stroke and then a debillitating illness to which he finally succumbed. His presence at Rotary has been greatly missing of late and it is sad news that he lost his fight for life this week. He will be fondly remembered within the Club.
|
|||||||
Rotarians attend the Lions meeting At the invitation of the Port Fairy - Belfast Lions Club, members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy attended the Lions Club meeting held in the Port Fairy Senior Citizens facility on 18th January 2023. The event was catered by the Lions Club who turned on a wonderful spread for the evening.It was an enjoyable opportunity for both Lions and Rotarians to come together given our common goals of supporting the community. In all, 12 Rotarians and 3 partners joined some 40 Lions and guests for the event. |
|||||||
Rotarians celebrate Christmas |
|||||||
RYLA 2023 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is seeking to sponsor young people in the age bracket 18 to 25 years for RYLA. The next RYLA seminar is scheduled for 16th-21st April 2023 (see details below). |
|||||||
Port Fairy Rotarians lend a hand! Members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy spent an hour or so helping fellow Rotarian, Barb Eldridge and her husband, Ken, by cleaning up and weeding their garden in Campbell Street, Port Fairy today. |
|||||||
Great Garden Gallop
The rain held off and Port Fairy Rotary's annual Open Gardens day took place on Sunday 30 October with five great gardens on display. The event was a fundraiser for Australians 4 Women's Health, this being President Graeme Cox's major charity for 2022/23. Nearly six thousand dollars was raised for this cause by ticket sales on the day and by the associated raffle. The Club would like to thank the owners who made their gardens available and put in the work to have them in tip-top condition for the day. Special thanks also go to main organiser Jill Gleeson and her assistants, including the Friends of Rotary. Thanks also to Maureen Beatty and her helpers who organised the morning and afternoon teas and served them on the day. |
|||||||
Business Break-through
Local business development has received a boost with the establishment of Commerce Moyne. Speaking at a recent Port Fairy Rotary meeting, Ashley King outlined progress on the establishment of the organisation which has been kicked off by the Community Bank and the Moyne Shire. Commerce Moyne will be a co-ordinating point for local businesses and an advocate for grants and projects. The first initiative has been to create a paid Program Director for the Moyneyana Festival which should ensure a bigger and better event over the up-coming holiday season. |
|||||||
Volunteering Venture
Local identity Nicole Dwyer was the guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. Nicole has established Belfast Volunteering, a new not-for-profit group aimed at connecting volunteers with groups and clubs in Port Fairy and the surrounding district. This is a most welcomed initiative given the difficulty faced by all groups in recruiting volunteers and the importance of voluntary work in our community. If you are an individual looking for volunteering opportunities or a group looking for volunteers, you can register with Belfast Volunteering by emailing info@belfastvolunteering.com |
|||||||
Recycling Guide Goes Live
Port Fairy Rotary has released a guide to all things recycling, re-homing and re-using for Port Fairy and district. The Guide was put together by local resident Fiona Phillips and covers 39 categories of household goods with everything from bicycles to garden tools to video games. The Guide also provides detailed information on what you can put into the familiar yellow, purple, green and red bins collected by Moyne Shire each week. You can download a copy of the Guide from the Home Page. |
|||||||
Centenary Salute
Port Fairy Rotary's tribute to the Centenary of the operation of Rotary in Australia has been unveiled. On a recent sunny morning District Governor Kathy Rivett cut the ribbon on our Centenary project, a 300 tree plantation on the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail. DG Kathy cut the ribbon on a sign and a seat that mark the location and significance of the project. The trees for the project were purchased with the aid of a grant from the Moyne Shire Community Carbon Offset Program. Port Fairy Rotary is grateful to the Rail Trail Committee on Management for providing access to the site and to the Rail Trail volunteers who assisted with site preparation and the tree planting. Rotarian Tony Bawden was the driving force behind behind the project, showing great persistence through the tribulations of COVID. Thanks to all. |
|||||||
Salvos Support
Salvation Army member Barry Clarke was a recent guest speaker at the Port Fairy Rotary. Barry is the Southwest Team Leader, Homelessness and heads up a team who deliver the Homelessness Program. The program assists an average of 45 people per month and over past 12 months there have been 518 households present for assistance. Barry Clarke with President Graeme Cox
|
|||||||
Rotarians Dig In! A small, but intrepid group of Rotarians spent an hour or so this morning on the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail Bicycle path. This was to help the Rail Trail committee volunteers plant over 200 trees along the stretch of the trail near Sun Pharma on the Princes Highway. |
|||||||
Bloomin' Good! Rotary Open Gardens returns in 2022
After an enforced "layoff" due to Covid restrictions, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy is pleased to announce the return of its popular "Open Gardens" event to be held on Sunday, 30th October 2022 between 10am and 4pm. |
|||||||
Jed Macartney joins our Club
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy was pleased to induct its newest member, Jed Macartney, to the Club at its members meeting on 1st August 2022. |
|||||||
Tandem Team Tumble Weeds
In trying conditions the weed team, Port Fairy Rotarians Bill Moore and Michael Crowe, set to work weeding the Barclay Street garden beds. Two big bags of weeds later the job was done. With the blessing of the Moyne Shire Port Fairy Rotary has volunteered to keep the weeds at bay at this prominent site. These garden beds were established by the Shire as part of the recent upgrade of the church end of Barclay Street. |
|||||||
New battery recycling facility launched in Port Fairy The Rotary Club of Port Fairy was keen to promote a battery disposal facility in Port Fairy and, as part of its research, we discovered that a company called EcoBatt, were already in the process of installing disposal centres in various IGAs and Home Hardware shops in south west Victoria.The Rotary Club is therefore pleased that our town's first recycling box has now been installed in Brookes Hardware store in Sackville Street. |
|||||||
Rotary Changeover dinner for 2022 - a great success!
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held its annual Changeover Dinner on Monday 20th June 2022 at the Star of the West Hotel. This was a very successful and enjoyable night culminating in the induction of new President, Graeme Cox for Rotary year 2022-23.
|
|||||||
Numbers Hold Up
There are an estimated 2.3 million, or 42% of Victorians over 15 years of age who volunteer in Victoria. However the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted volunteering in Victoria, cutting the participation rate in half. Fortunately the Rotary Club of Port Fairy has been able to maintain its numbers over the COVID period. The Club's Annual Report released this month revealed the membership holding up at 22. The Club's most recent recruit is Annie Ridgway. Annie is a Port Fairy resident and works in the field of human resources. Annie Ridgway with Graeme Cox and Bill Moore |
|||||||
District 9780 Conference 2022
It was a big weekend for a small town when the Rotary District 9780 Conference 2022 was held in Port Fairy on 18-20 March. Over a hundred delegates attended with more following the Conference proceedings on line. District Governor John Clue said that the Conference was a great event and he had received complimentary feedback from Rotarians across the District for the way it was run, the quality of the speakers, the Conference Dinner and the Welcome function. Several visiting Rotarians said it was a memorable and motivating conference that reinforced the Conference theme of Resilience, Renewal and Regeneration
|
|||||||
Summer Raffle
Rotary's Summer raffle was part of the action at Port Fairy's Saturday markets over January. With three prizes up for grabs the Club sold nearly 500 tickets, making the raffle a very successful effort. The winners were:
Thanks to these donors for supporting Rotary's fund raising. Wilma Preston with Harry Bracegirdle
|
|||||||
Pop-up raffle
Port Fairy's night market is a highlight of the annual build up to Christmas. Rotary set up shop and held a one-night raffle, the prize being a hamper of Christmas goodies. The winner was local Renee Brown who was thrilled to take home the big basket. President Jill Gleeson presented Renee with her prize at the end of the night's trading. |
|||||||
Sea Scouts Cleanup
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy recently undertook a cleanup of the back yard of the Port Fairy Sea Scout's hall in Bank Street. The first job was to remove the old ute that has been parked in the yard for a number of years. On 5 December the team of Adrian, Graeme, Milee, Jill, Peter, Bill, Reg and Michael moved in with brush cutters to tackle the long grass and remove some large items of rubbish. The job was finished off the following week with the removal of some rocks and other small items so that the grass can be safely mowed in future.
|
|||||||
Battery Hill Renewal
Port Fairy Rotary's contribution to the renewal of Battery Hill continued with tree planting at the historic site. This effort was part of a long-term project to return native vegetation, improve public access and restore the historic elements, co-ordinated by the Shire and local historian Marten Syme. Rotary is one of several community groups that have provided volunteer effort to the project over a number of years. On a recent Sunday morning with rain and storms threatening Rotarians and Friends got down to the job of planting trees and shrubs. The work was done in small groups in order to comply with current COVID 19 regulations. |
|||||||
District 9780 Changeover
On 10 July local Rotarian John Clue was inducted as Governor of Rotary District 9780 for 2021/22. The event was held in Port Fairy and was attended by 100 Rotarians and friends from across the District, which stretches across western Victoria and into eastern South Australia. This is a high honour for John and the first time that the Rotary Club of Port Fairy has provided the District Governor. In accepting the office, John said that he and his wife Heather are excited to now start the District Governor’s journey over the coming year and look forward to meeting with clubs in person over the coming months. John Clue
|
|||||||
New President for Port
Jill Gleeson has stepped up to be the President of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy for 2021/22. This is Jill's second term as President since joining the Club in 2007. Jill was inducted by 9780 District Governor Phil Beasley at a well-attended Changeover dinner held in Port Fairy on 21 June. She takes over from outgoing President Tony Bawden who skilfully steered the Club through the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020/21. Jill Gleeson and Tony Bawden
|
|||||||
Tea and Trivia
Winter Weekends in Port Fairy celebrate the cold season with a variety of events and attractions. The Friends of Port Fairy recently joined the action with a High Tea trivia quiz afternoon. Held in the yacht club rooms, it attracted over 40 masterminds keen to test their knowledge of a range of question categories. The half-time highlight was a sumptuous high tea served by the Friends kitchen crew. At the end of the day the 'P' team took off first prize of a half dozen bottles of wine, narrowly ahead of the second and third prize-winning teams. The afternoon was a successful fundraiser for Rotary's various worthy causes. Thanks to all who came along and to the Friends and Members who worked hard to put on the event both on the day and in the weeks leading up to the weekend. |
|||||||
Gala Centenary Dinner
On 24 May 2021 Rotarians and local dignitaries gathered for a gala dinner to celebrate the Centenary of Rotary in Australia and to mark the 60th anniversary of Rotary in Port Fairy. The event took place in the Drill Hall, the venue of the Charter meeting of the Club on 25 March 1961. This year also marks 100 years of Rotary service in Australia. In proposing a toast to Rotary, the Mayor of Moyne Shire, Daniel Meade, acknowledged the outstanding service provided by Port Fairy Rotary to the town and the district over the last 60 years. Other highlights of the night included a presentation on the history of the Club by Harry Bracegirdle, and addresses by District 9780 District Governor Elect (and Port Fairy Rotary member) John Clue, and Club President Tony Bawden. Tony Bawden
|
|||||||
Lindsay Jets In
Port Fairy Rotary assisted adventurer Lindsay Warner when he dropped into town recently during his circumnavigation of Australia on a jetski. Lindsay is undertaking this trip to raise awareness and funds for mens's health. Starting in Esperance WA, he was about a quarter of the way through his 16,000 km journey. During his brief stopover Rotary helped Lindsay with refuelling his small craft, while Port Fairy Marine Rescue provided help with accommodation and drying facilities. Lindsay Warner on board
|
|||||||
Destiny Returns
In January 2020 Destiny Kelly departed Australia for Switzerland, excited to be Port Fairy Rotary's Youth Exchange participant for that year. However as we all know in 2020 normality was turned on its head and Destiny's year away was not what she expected. Understandably COVID restricted many of the usual educational and social activities Destiny would have normally undertaken. Destiny addressed the Club last week and spoke about her unusual year in Switzerland, illustrating how she made the most of the altered circumstances. Destiny also expressed appreciation to the Club and especially Sue Robertson for her assistance over the year. Destiny and Sue Robertson |
|||||||
Great Golf Day
Port Fairy Rotary's 2021 golf day was once again a great success. Held on the renowned Port Fairy golf links, 184 players hit off in perfect conditions in a Stableford competition. The players also enjoyed a BBQ put on by Rotary volunteers, and the opportunity to win the raffle. Prizes were generously donated by local businesses for grade winners, longest drive and nearest the pin. All funds raised will be put towards the installation of a Town Clock in Port Fairy to mark the Centenary of Rotary in Australia. Rotarians on BBQ duty
|
|||||||
Rotary 100 years of service
On 21 April 1921 the first two Rotary Clubs in Australia, in Melbourne and Sydney, were established. Along with 1100 other clubs in Australia the Rotary Club of Port Fairy celebrated this significant milestone with a special dinner meeting on 21 April 2021. Highlights of the night were a Zoom linkup with over 30 clubs in our District 9780 and a birthday cake compliments of Rotarian Jill Gleeson. Port Fairy member and incoming District Governor, John Clue, addressed the virtually assembled clubs on the significant of the achievement of 100 years of service by Rotary in Australia. Margaret Broers and John Ellard cut the cake |
|||||||
Flagpole Fix-up
The Charles Mills Reserve iconic flagpole has received a full makeover thanks to the Port of Port Fairy and local boat-builder, Gary Stewart. During the recent Rotary working bee at the reserve it was determined that the flagpole needed some serious repairs, so it was lowered and taken off to Gary's workshop. Rotting wood was repaired and repainted. The adjustable triangular rigging was replaced and is now once again functional. Following completion of the repairs, the flagpole was reinstalled with the assistance of the Port's crane. It is now back as the centre piece in the reserve, and ready to 'fly the flag' thanks to all concerned. The renovated flagpole |
|||||||
Charles Mills Spruce Up
Back in 1964 the Port Fairy Rotary Club established the facilities at the Charles Mills Reserve, a small picturesque park on the eastern bank of the Moyne River. Since that time the Club has improved and maintained the reserve - a period of 57 years! A recent working bee saw club members spruce up the shelters, bollards and the flagpole with a fresh coat of paint. The painting gang at Charles Mills
|
|||||||
Members Boost
Port Fairy Rotary Club has recorded a big boost to membership with four new members joining up. At a recent meeting new Rotarians Kristie Simpson and Andrew Long were inducted and current Rotarians Greame and Milee Cox transferred into the Club. President Tony Bawden conducted the induction ceremony and welcomed the new members to the Club. New members with Tony Bawden
|
|||||||
By the Bag Load
Port Fairy SES found a good use for sand bags left over from last October's flood in the town. Donated to the Cockatoo Rise Veterans Retreat, they will be put to good use as part of the Retreat's memorial. The Macarthur retreat was established by Vietnam veteran Greg Carter and welcomes ex and serving defence personnel and their partners. Port Fairy Rotarians helped Greg load up the sand bags for the move from the SES out to Macarthur. Greg Carter with Rotarians Tony Bawden, Adrian Crosier and Michael Crowe
|
|||||||
Raffle Roundup
Every summer Port Fairy Rotary raffles a painting by well-known local artist Wilma Preston. The Club thanks Wilma for her generous donation of the painting which once again proved a popular prize with both locals and visitors. Many thanks also to all the ticket sellers especially Margaret Broers who put in a shift at every Community Market held over January. The lucky winner was Bronwyn Davies of Melbourne. The painting was awarded to a delighted Bronwyn and her husband by President Tony Bawden. Bronwyn commented that Wilma's painting will take pride of place in their holiday home. President Tony presents the painting prize to Bronwyn Davies |
|||||||
Shocking Training Session
In recent years Port Fairy Rotary has donated two defibrillators for deployment around the town, one located at the Star of the West hotel and one at the BP Service Station. Ready access to a defibrillator is critical as time is of the essence for survival. Two sessions of defibrillator training for staff at the hotel and the BP were organised by the Rotary Club of Port Fairy in consultation with managers, Kathy Matthews of the BP and Caroline Lumley of the Star. The sessions were ran by local paramedic, Woody Bucci, from Ambulance Victoria who kindly donated his time. Woody Bucci Ambulance Victoria
|
|||||||
Back on the Street
For many months COVID-19 rules have restricted the Club's ability to raise funds and provide volunteer services to the Port Fairy community. So it was with great relief and excitement that Port Fairy Rotary was able to return to fund raising activities. First off was the Christmas hamper raffle, with regular ticket sales taking place in the shopping centre during the weeks leading up to Christmas. The happy winner was local identity Caroline Crowe, who was reported to be 'chuffed' as she had never won a raffle before. Harry Bracegirdle and John Ellard with a masked shopper
|
|||||||
DG Comes to Town
Rotary District 9780 Governor, Phil Beasley, and his wife Judy recently visited Port Fairy Rotary Club. Phil outlined the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic on Clubs, including on members, families and friends. Fundraising has been significantly reduced. Local communities have also been impacted in different ways and it is important for Clubs to determine the particular needs that have arisen locally. Clubs should review their strategic plans in light of the changed community needs and their lower resources. New ways of working including joint projects with other clubs should be explored. DG Phil Beasley
|
|||||||
Bamboo Blitz
Bamboo is a useful plant in the right places but the Port Fairy Botanic Gardens is not one of them. Port Fairy Rotary recently undertook the destruction of unwanted bamboo plants in accordance with the Council's Gardens Reserve Master Plan. This work continued the Club's efforts in recent times of assisting with the implementation of the Master Plan, including the planting of Norfolk Island Pines along the river and the installation of garden furniture. Port Fairy Botanic Gardens
|
|||||||
Good Year Despite Challenges
Outgoing President Sue Robertson presented her report on the 2019/20 year at the recent Port Fairy Rotary Changeover dinner. Sue described the year as comprising two very different parts - normal operation until March this year then a dramatically changed world with the arrival of COVID-19. The first part was a busy time for the Club with very successful fundraising and service activities. Despite the shutdown of fundraising for the final quarter, the Club was able to distribute over $26,000 to local, national and international good causes. Sue Robertson |
|||||||
New President - Tony Bawden
At a dinner meeting this week Tony Bawden was installed as the President of the Port Fairy Rotary Club for the 2020/21 year. Attendance was limited to 20 because of the COVID 19 rules, nevertheless Tony's elevation was enthusiastically supported. Tony was inducted by District Governor Philip Beasley, who was accompanied by his partner Judy. The meeting was streamed live, enabling members of Tony's family and other members and friends to follow proceedings. New President Tony Bawden inducted by District Governor Philip Beasley
|
|||||||
Lots of Teas Add Up
The corona virus has curtailed the activities of the Port Fairy Rotary Club in recent months. However the Cancer Council's Biggest Morning Tea has been transformed into lots of little morning teas as a way to raise funds for the Cancer Council during this difficult time. The Cancer Council provides services to Australians affected by cancer, operates the school SunSmart program and contributes $60 million annually to cancer research. Along with other local organisations, the Club has organised several little teas during June to contribute to this effort. While each event raises a modest amount, it all adds up to big result! Host John Clue with Bill Moore, Michael Crowe, Peter Gleeson and Tony Bawden get into the spirit
|
|||||||
Coronavirus Response
The spread of the COVID-19 virus is creating challenging times for everyone. The Rotary Club of Port Fairy's greatest priority is the health and safety of our members and the community. Club president, Sue Robertson has announced that from 16 March the Club will be implementing some changes to the way we operate. These changes will remain in effect for the foreseeable future. It was resolved that the Club will suspend all Rotary activities with face to face contact. It was also resolved that Rotary meetings will be suspended for the time being and be replaced by fortnightly electronic meetings. The District Governor has been notified of these decisions. |
|||||||
Battery Hill Comeback
Renowned local historian Marten Syme was a recent guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. Marten spoke about the history and restoration of Battery Hill - a well-known historic site in Port Fairy. As its name suggests, Battery Hill is the site of a battery of six cannon established between 1867 and 1889 in response to the threat of Russian invasion and to protect gold shipments along the coast. Marten Syme In recent years the Rotary Club has helped out with a major vegetation restoration effort over the Battery Hill Reserve.
|
|||||||
Folkie Fun
Every year in March thousands of music fans descend on Port Fairy for the world famous Folk Festival. Like most of the town, the Rotary Club gets involved with the staging of the big event. This year the Club put on a BBQ adjacent to the ticket exchange on the first day of the Folkie. A great way to kick off the Festival with a sausage! Throughout the four days of the event Rotary volunteers manned to gates to check the festival-goers into the arena. Members of the Friends group also volunteered for this task. Jill, Hester and Ann-Marie serve the fans
|
|||||||
Rob on Board
|
|||||||
Gardens on Show
The last Sunday in October is the traditional time for the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Open Gardens day. This year the four local gardens on display attracted hundreds of interested patrons. Over $5000 was raised to support Rotary's community projects. Many thanks to the generous owners who made their gardens available for the event, and who presented them in tip-top spring condition. This year's owners were Rachel and Gerard Thomas, Lyn and Allan Brown, Margaret and Franco Cavalieri, and Rebecca and Andrew Sharp. Thanks also the the dedicated team of Rotarians who organised the event: Margaret Whitehead, Jill Gleeson, Maureen Beattie and Hester Woodrup.
|
|||||||
Movie Moguls
Brothers and film makers Edvaard & Haavard Christie were recent guest speakers at the Port Fairy Rotary Club. Hailing from Hamilton they spoke about their 2 ½ year project to make a feature film titled “Hang on to Your Hangers On”. The film was made in Hamilton and local community members featured as actors and in behind-the-camera roles. The film was made on a budget of about $5000 and Edvaard and Haavard did all aspects including scriptwriting, filming and directing. They recently screened the film three times at the Hamilton cinema and each session was sold out. They are now seeking wider distribution for the film by entering various film festivals around the world.
|
|||||||
Vale Lyn
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is saddened to note the passing of member Lyn Morgan-Payler. Lyn joined Port Fairy Rotary in 2011. She was a regular attendee at Rotary events including meetings, social functions, fund raising events and community service activities. She was a good friend to all Members and will be greatly missed. The Club’s condolences go to husband Traff and to children Ann, Penny, James and their families. Traff was also a Rotary Club member from 2011 to 2018. Lyn Morgan-Payler Members paid tribute to Lyn at the Club's 12 August meeting, including a number of reflections on Lyn's life and a minutes silence. |
|||||||
Hoist Helps Swimmers
President of Belfast Aquatics Committee of Management, Anne Mcilroy, spoke to our 8 July meeting about Belfast Aquatics and their new hoist. The facility provides a wide range of exercise and swimming programs in their gym and pool. Port Fairy Rotary recently donated a hoist that will enable the transfer of clients in wheel chairs and provide easy access to the pool via the beach entry. Anne thanked the Rotary Club for their support and a plaque was presented to her acknowledging the donation by the Club. Sue Robertson presents the plaque to Anne Mcilroy
|
|||||||
President Peter
Peter Smith was inducted as President of the Port Fairy Rotary Club for 2019/20 at a glittering change-over dinner on 24 June. Peter has been a member of the Club since 2015 and served as Secretary for the last three years. In his acceptance speech Peter outlined his ideas for the Club for the forthcoming year. These include continuing the strong program of fundraising, the Club's commitment to community service, and a drive to increase Club membership numbers. And, of course, an emphasis on having lots of fun. Also at the event outgoing President Sue Robertson presented her report on the Club's activities and achievements for the past year. |
|||||||
Cycling Without Age
Cycling Without Age (CWA) is a volunteer organisation that takes elderly and less abled citizens out for free bike rides in specialised trishaws. A group from the Port Fairy CWA pilot program visited our recent meeting and spoke about CWA and their plans to set up the program in the town. Brendan Donahoo, project leader and past Rotarian, explained how the program works and the progress that had already been made with its establishment in Port Fairy.
|
|||||||
King of Moyneyana
Port Fairy Rotary has recognised the community service of Reg Harry. The Club recently presented Reg with a Certificate of Appreciation, recognising his long service to the town's annual Moyneyana Festival and the Folk Festival. Reg has been involved with Moyneyana for about 50 years and has been Chairman for the last 20 years. Receiving the award, Reg commented that the Festival provides a wonderful program of activities for summer visitors. He acknowledged the support of Rotary and other service organisations. President Sue and Reg Harry |
|||||||
Top Recognition for Hester
Prominent Port Fairy resident and Rotarian Hester Woodrup has been made a Paul Harris Fellow. This is the highest award that the Club can make in recognition of long and valuable service. In making the award Club president, Sue Robertson, mentioned some of Hester's contributions to the Port Fairy community including over 30 years involvement with the Murray to Moyne cycling event (initiated in memory of Hester's late partner Graham Woodrup), the Port Fairy Cycling Club and Parkrun. Hester and Sue Robertson Hester joined Rotary in 2012 and has served as President and in many other roles within the Club. |
|||||||
Oriel's Moyneyana Music
Last year the Rotary Club of Port Fairy donated a new piano to Moyneyana House. The piano was handed over on 20 December by President Sue Robertson at a concert for Moyneyana residents held to mark the occasion. Moyneyana House Leisure and Lifestyle Coordinator Oriel Glennon recently returned to address the Club and report back on the use of the piano and the role of music in the lives of the Moyneyana residents.
|
|||||||
Special School Support
Our story on 25 April featured the Easter Lighthouse tours and the associated BBQ that raised funds for the Warrnambool Special Developmental School. This week the Club presented a cheque for $2000 to the Special School Principal, Robert Dowell. Robert responded that the the funds were most welcome and would be used to purchase equipment for the new school building. President Sue Robertson presents the cheque to Robert Dowell
|
|||||||
Young Get Involved
This week the Rotary Club of Port Fairy was addressed by two young women on their involvement in Rotary programs. Our 2018 Youth Exchange participant, Lisa van Someren, reported on her recent experience in the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA). The RYLA program is aimed at developing leadership potential for young adults and its approach emphasises participation, fun and a high level of interactive learning. Lisa was followed with a talk by Destiny Kelly who is our Youth Exchange candidate for 2020. Destiny had just attended the program's first preparatory weekend at Halls Gap. |
|||||||
Friends fabulous fashions
The Friends of Port Fairy Rotary's recent fashion parade proved a great success. Over a 100 people attended and around $1800 was raised on the day. The funds will provide support for the Club's charitable efforts. The Friends organised the event, sourcing the garments and accessories from the Francis Foundation Op-Shop. The Francis Foundation provides accommodation placement and support for mental health. The Foundation was founded in 1981 by well-known Port Fairy resident Joan Grace. Rotarians Jill Gleeson and Robert Whitehead featured among the volunteer models, all of whom put on an entertaining display of the outfits.
|
|||||||
Golf Day goes gangbusters
Port Fairy Rotary Club held its second annual golf day on April 26 at the spectacular Port Fairy golf course. The number of participating teams was well up on last year as players battled the challenge of a very windy day. Nearly $6000 was raised for the cause, Lift the Lid. Lift the Lid on Mental Illness is Australian Rotary Health’s National annual fundraiser for mental health research. Each year approximately 1-in-5 Australians will experience a mental illness. Lift the Lid funds research to find out how to prevent this type of illness occurring. The event was won by a team sponsored by the Bendigo Bank with an exceptional score for the conditions. Second place was taken by a team from Port Fairy.
|
|||||||
Lighthouse a beacon for sausage lovers
Many flock to Port Fairy at Easter and this means a busy time for the Rotary Club. The Club's tours of Griffiths Island's historic lighthouse on Easter Saturday and Sunday proved to be very popular with visitors and locals alike. The Club also put on a BBQ at the Griffiths Island Rotunda, doing a good trade with those making the walk out to the lighthouse. The tours and the BBQ raised funds for the Warrnambool Special Developmental School. The school provides a special educational setting catering for 140 students (aged between 5 and 18) who have an intellectual disability. It is the only special school in the district and its service area includes Warrnambool and Port Fairy. Reg Beatty and Michael Crowe fire up the BBQ
|
|||||||
Canadians Check InPort Fairy was a highlight stop for a group of Canadian Rotarians last week. The group from District 5550 was visiting Western Victoria as part of the Rotary Friendship Exchange program. Coming from Portland the 12 visitors stopped at Port Fairy for lunch and a tour of the town before heading for Warrnambool. Rotary District 5550 is located in central Canada and takes in parts of Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario provinces. .JPG) Lunch at the Hub for the Canadian Friendship Exchange group |
|||||||
Bandari and recognition for Geoff CoxallThe volunteer efforts of Port Fairy's Goeff Coxall have been honoured with a Paul Harris fellowship. The Paul Harris fellowship recognises outstanding commitment to Rotary and the community. In presenting the honour to Geoff at the Club's recent meeting, President Sue Robertson said that Geoff's work exemplifies the humanitarian and educational objectives of Rotary. She congratulated him on the award and in particular highlighted his contribution to the Bandari Project that provides education opportunities for children in the Tanzanian village of Mto Wambu. President Sue also presented a cheque to Seif Sakate for a scholarship that will support a child to attend the Bandari school in Mto Wambu. .JPG) Sue Robertson presents the Paul Harris Fellowship to Geoff Coxall
|
|||||||
Romsey's Rhys Rotary RaffleRhys Jansen of Romsey was the lucky winner of Port Fairy Rotary's summer raffle. Rhys took home the prize - a painting of Port Fairy's iconic lighthouse by prominent local artist Wilma Preston. The raffle raised over $1600 for the Club's charitable causes. .jpg) Wilma Preston draws the winning ticket with Sue Robertson
|
|||||||
Holiday Safari a hit
Each year Rotary clubs in Australia host exchange students from a variety of other countries. Recently a group of students currently on exchange in the district visited Port Fairy on a holiday safari and were shown the town's sites by members of Port Fairy Rotary. 10 Rotary Exchange students arrived in Port Fairy by bus from Portland. They were joined by Destiny who is hoping to be an outbound student next year, sponsored by Port Fairy Rotary. |
|||||||
Kids and coffee run for RotaryCome New Years Eve and Port Fairy Rotary gets involved in the town's annual Moyneyana Festival. This year the Club hosted the backwards races for children in the morning and the inaugural baristas' race in the evening. Over 60 children in four age groups had loads of fun running backwards on the cricket ground course, cheered on by families and friends. .jpeg) Having fun backwards! The baristas' race was held as a curtain-raiser to the Moyneyana float parade. The competitors represented various cafes and were challenged to reach the finish line while balancing two cups of coffee on a tray.
|
|||||||
Rotary strikes a chordMoyneyana House has a brand new piano thanks to the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. The piano was handed over on 20 December by President Sue Robertson at a concert for Moyneyana residents held to mark the occasion. Several pianists displayed their musical talent and gave the new instrument a solid workout. Moyne Health Services CEO Jackie Kelly said that the piano was a great addition to Moyneyana House facilities.  Rotarian David Digby tickles the ivories while Hester Woodrup, Sue Robertson and Peter Smith look on. |
|||||||
Paul Harris for John ClueThe volunteer efforts of Port Fairy Rotary member John Clue have been honoured with a Paul Harris fellowship. The Paul Harris fellowship recognises outstanding commitment to the Club and the community. In presenting the honour to John at the Club's recent end-of-year event, President Sue Robertson said that John's work exemplifies the humanitarian and educational objectives of Rotary. She thanked him for his commitment to people in need both locally and around the world. .jpeg) .John Clue accepts the Paul Harris certificate from President Sue Robertson
|
|||||||
Christmas fellowshipMembers and friends of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy celebrated the festive season with a dinner at the Wharf restaurant. A good time was had by all at what was the last formal event of the year for the Club. The dinner marked a very active and successful year for the Club. President Sue Robertson thanked members and friends for their tireless and cheerful efforts A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a Paul Harris Fellowship to member John Clue (see story above).  Festive fun at the Wharf |
|||||||
District Governor visits Port FairyDistrict Governor Anthony Ohlsen recently visited Port Fairy to meet with the Rotary Club. This visit was part of the DG's annual tour of District 9780 to touch base with Clubs and review their progress and plans. Anthony commended our Club on its efforts and particularly its deep involvement with the community of Port Fairy and the surrounding area.  District Governor Anthony Ohlsen |
|||||||
School Stars
Students from Port Fairy Consolidated School were visitors to a recent dinner meeting of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. The student presented speeches that they had previously presented at the Warrnambool Eisteddfod. Principal Kath Tanner introduced the students who each delivered speeches on current social issues. This event is a highlight of the Rotary year and the presentations by the students are greatly appreciated by Club members.
|
|||||||
Battery Hill Plant Out
The 12th of August saw a hardy group brave the elements to make another step in the big task of the rehabilitation of Battery Hill. Port Fairy Rotarians, Friends of Rotary and Lions Club members got together for a morning of tree planting. Over 400 trees and shrubs were planted. The tree planting was part of the long-term effort to restore the native vegetation of Battery Hill through the removal of weeds and the revegetation with indigenous species. Some of the work gang at Battery Hill
|
|||||||
Hostage insights
Guest speaker at the 16 July meeting of Port Fairy was Sergeant Mick Wolfe of the Port Fairy Police. Police are often called on to resolve stand-off situations which may involve mental illness, depression or criminal intent. Sometimes these situations can include hostages, on other occasions only one person is involved. Sergeant Wolfe with Rotarian Hester Woodrup Sergeant Wolfe related his long experience as a police negotiator, particularly for hostage and siege situations. Police negotiators are highly trained in the most effective techniques for defusing stand-off situations. Sergeant Wolfe described the importance of patience, careful listening and honesty on the part of the negotiator.
|
|||||||
Footy FunRotarians and Friends recently got together for a night of fun and trivia in the clubrooms of the Port Fairy Football Netball Club. The theme of the night was Australian football and their knowledge of the game was tested with a number of quizzes. This year the Port Fairy Football Club celebrated its 150th anniversary. Club President Ashley King spoke of the Club's history and the important role played by the Club in the life of the community of Port Fairy.  Rotarians and Friends get the funny side of footy
|
|||||||
Making a difference
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy donated over $20,000 to local and international good causes during 2017/18. These funds resulted from the Club's various fund raising activities during the year. The 2017/18 year saw an emphasis on support for efforts to improve health outcomes. Major contributions included End Polio ($3,000), End Trachoma ($4,000) and Moyne Health Services ($5,000). Several other local organisations also benefitted. The Club thanks all the people and organisations who supported its fund raising activities and events during the year.
|
|||||||
Sue Robertson 2018/19 PresidentAt the Changeover Dinner held on 25 June 2018 in Port Fairy's Victoria Hotel, the new Club President, Sue Robertson, was inducted by Assistant District Governor, John Clue. In her address to the Club and the many distinguished guests, Sue challenged the Club members to find new ways to do things and to reinvigorate ourselves and our Club. This would involve sharing tasks and building on our presence in the community. The new Club Executive for 2018/19 was also inducted.  President Sue Robertson
|
|||||||
Successful year for Port Fairy RotaryPort Fairy Rotary held its Changeover Dinner on 25 June 2018 at which the incoming club executive led by 2018/19 President Sue Robertson was inducted. Outgoing President Bill Moore delivered his report on the Club's achievements during 2017/18. Bill identified a number of highlights for the year including the inaugural golf day, the Shaw River Buffalo Cheese tours, the international exchange student program and the introduction of more Club social events.  2017/18 President Bill Moore
|
|||||||
Lisa's Big Year
Lisa van Someren was an outgoing Rotary exchange student for 2017/18, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. Lisa recently returned to the Club and spoke to members about her experiences. While in Canada Lisa was a guest of the Woodstock Rotary Club and stayed with three different host families. Woodstock is a city of 40,000 people, located about 100 km from Toronto. However during her stay Lisa managed to travel far and wide in both Canada and the United States. Lisa van Someren
|
|||||||
Barb Onboard
Barb Eldridge was inducted as a member of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy on 4 June 2018. Barb is well known to Club members, having been a regular guest at the weekly dinner meetings. Barb is no stranger to Rotary. Prior to transferring to Port Fairy Rotary, she was a member of the Rotary Club of Mortlake for 20 years. New member Barb Eldridge with husband Ken and President Bill Moore. President Bill Moore welcomed Barb to Port Fairy Rotary, noting her record as a volunteer with the Club that often involved recruiting other members of the Eldridge family to contribute to the volunteer effort.
|
|||||||
Norfolks Nudge Numbers
Port Fairy Rotary Club members recently planted 13 Norfolk Island Pines as part of the rejuvenation of the Port Fairy Botanic Gardens. The trees have contributed to the Club's response to Rotary International President Ian Riseley's challenge to every Rotary Club to plant a tree for each of its members between the start of the Rotary year on 1 July and Earth Day on 22 April 2018. The Club has well and truly achieved the goal, with over 200 trees planted during this period at Battery Hill, Skenes Road and the Botanic Gardens. Ian Riseley |
|||||||
Firm Friends
The Friends of Port Fairy Rotary have proved that you can help the community and enjoy yourself at the same time. Established in 2016, the Friends group has grown to 20 members and is now an important part of the Rotary's service in the local area. The Friends contribute to a broad range of Club activities and enjoy participation in the Club's social events. Rotarian Margaret Whitehead is the co-ordinator of the Friends group and is responsible for membership and liaison between the Club and the group. |
|||||||
Guest speaker Jackie Kelly MHS CEO
Moyne Health Services has been in operation for more that 160 years providing the community healthcare needs in Port Fairy and surrounding districts in the Moyne Shire. Employing more than 190 people, Moyne Health Services operates a 15 bed acute hospital, 52 place hostel, 30 place nursing home, Accident & Emergency, primary and community care services, adult day centre and allied health services. The CEO of Moyne Health Services (MHS), Jackie Kelly, was recently a guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. She spoke of the services offered by MHS and the plans for future development of the Service. |
|||||||
Tales from Tanzania
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has been a long-standing supporter of the Bandari project in Tanzania. Rotarian Jo Levy recently travelled to Tanzania with a group of Bandari supporters from Port Fairy and other areas to participate in the latest development efforts at Mto Wambu, the former village of Port Fairy resident Seif Sakate. Meanwhile a fund-raising night held at the home of President Bill Moore raised $615 to purchase teaching resources for the Bandari School. This year’s trip provided professional training for teachers and the people travelling carried 60kg of teaching resources. Jo Levy reported from Tanzania on progress on the Bandari project.
|
|||||||
Inaugural Golf Day.JPG)
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy's inaugural golf day was held at the Port Fairy golf course on 20 April. The day was judged a successful event by both players and volunteers who reported that the format for the day worked very well and all had a good time. President Bill Moore announced that the event raised $3500 which has been allocated to Rotary’s ‘End Trachoma by 2020’ program. There was great support from sponsors and we thank them for their assistance. Many thanks also to all who volunteered, especially Rotarians Adrian Crosier and Peter Smith, and Friend of Rotary Harry Bracegirdle. The catering teams and Brett Murray on the drinks cart did a sterling job. Players from the Grovedale Waurn Ponds Rotary Club had a successful trip down the highway to participate in the event. |
|||||||
Super bowls
Rotarians and Friends had lots of fun recently when they tried their hands at an evening of lawn bowls at the Port Fairy Bowls Club. Guided by experienced bowlers Rotarian Brett Murray and his father Jim, enthusiastic players battled for the honour of 'nearest the jack'. While the 'bias' of the bowls proved a challenge for some, several Rotarians showed a hidden talent for the game including Jo Levy, John Clue and Peter Smith. The fun continued after dinner in the Clubhouse with a trivia quiz. Many thanks to Margaret Whitehead and her crew who put the evening together. |
|||||||
Vale Colwyn Martin
Members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy were deeply saddened at the passing of Past President and Paul Harris Fellow (Sapphire Pin) Colwyn Martin on 5 January 2018. Col was a club member for 27 years and was the Club's oldest member. Many Rotarians from Port Fairy and neighbouring clubs attended the farewell service at St Johns Church Port Fairy. The Rotary Peace Choir sang at the service and Rotary Club and RSL members formed a guard of honour after the service.
|
|||||||
Shaw River safaris to End Polio
Over the month of January, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy arranged tours to the Shaw River Buffalo Cheese farm at Yambuk. Proceeds from the tours went towards the End Polio project. The Club conducted five visits to the Shaw River Buffalo Cheese farm for a total of more than 80 people. Over $1000 was raised for the End Polio project. The Club gives special thanks to the Haldane family for their generous hospitality and assistance with the tours. Thanks also to Rotarians Sue Robertson and David Digby who helped with the design and distribution of the publicity materials.
|
|||||||
Big prize goes to local
The prize in Port Fairy Rotary's 2017/18 painting raffle has been won by local man Anthony Clifford. Anthony was thrilled to carry away the painting of the town's well-known landmark, the lighthouse. The raffle is a major fund-raiser for the Club over the summer period. President Bill Moore (shown handing the prize to the happy winner) thanked all who bought tickets and the Rotary volunteers who sold tickets. Many thanks also to prominent local artist Wilma Preston who painted and donated the prize. |
|||||||
Exchange students big day out in Port FairyOn 16 January Rotary Exchange students from District 9780 visited Port Fairy as part of the their mini-safari around the Western District. They were hosted by members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy and while in town they checked out some of the town's famous attractions and joined Club members for a luncheon at Rotary Park. .JPG) Rotary Exchange Students visit Port Fairy |
|||||||
Harry Bracegirdle made Paul Harris Fellow
On 30 October Harry Bracegirdle was made a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his outstanding service to Rotary and the community. Harry joined the Rotary Club of Port Fairy on 13 October 2008 and served as a Rotarian for 9 years. During his time with the Club Harry undertook many important roles as a Club leader and member. Harry with Club President Bill Moore |
|||||||
DG Ray Herbert visits Rotary Club of Port FairyDistrict Governor Ray Herbert recently visited the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. During his visit Ray met with the Board and attended our dinner meeting on 23 October. Ray’s visit was part of the District Governor’s annual tour of Rotary Clubs of District 9780. In his address to the Club Ray highlighted a number of the programs currently active in Rotary and acknowledged the efforts of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy.  District Governor Ray Herbert addresses Port Fairy Rotary |
|||||||
Pride of Workmanship AwardJenny Ciavola was presented with the Rotary Pride of Workmanship Award at the Dinner meeting on 16 October 2017. The Pride of Workmanship Award recognises people who have provided outstanding service to the community through their working life. Hester Woodrup introduced Jenny and summarised Jenny's contribution to the Port Fairy community. Jenny has worked at the Port Fairy Medical Clinic for over 30 years and has always maintained a polite and friendly manner while undertaking a job that is demanding and, on occasions, stressful.  Jenny Ciavola with Hester Woodrup and President Bill Moore In response Jenny expressed her appreciation and thanks for her selection for the award. She commented that over the years she had been fortunate to have opportunities to learn from other members of the Practice and in particular to always be non-judgemental.
|
|||||||
Guest Speaker Ferdinand GausseurThe guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's dinner meeting of 16 October was Ferdinand Gausseur. Ferdinand is a member of the Rotary Club of Vienna and an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Hope Island. .jpeg) Ferdinand and Mrs Gausseur with President Bill Moore Ferdinand described the operation of his farm near Vienna in Austria and explained how concerns about subsidies and other European Union policies had prompted a search for farming opportunities in other countries. This eventually led to visits to Australia and finally to the purchase of a property near MacArthur. The 800 acre farm is now a successful enterprise based on sheep and cattle raising. |
|||||||
Diane Walker's Beanies for CharityDiane Walker, Rotary's newest member, is putting her craft skills to use by knitting beanies to raise money for local charities. Diane is shown in the picture with some of her colourful creations.  |
|||||||
Moyne Shire Environmental update for Rotary Club
Richard Hodgens, the Moyne Shire Council's Environmental Officer gave a very informative presentation to members of the Rotary Club at its Dinner meeting held 14th August. The Club has worked pro-actively with Richard over a number of years in regard to weed control, tree planting and maintenance and the cleanup of litter and other rubbish along Skenes Road between the town and the Golf Club. Richard, who has been in his role with the Council for just over 8 years provided members with a view of where the Council's environmental management budget is allocated with the major task involving weed control, roadside flora maintenance, oversight of special reserves, beach access points and efficiency improvement programs in regard to lighting such as the LED lighting exchange program, other reduction programs for Council utilities and fostering carbon offset programs against the Council's fleet of 69 vehicles. Some special budgeted programs include the Avenues of Honour, Peterborough's Coastal Erosion monitoring and the Port Fairy East Beach sea wall upgrade.  Richard, who is part of the Sustainability, Environment and Waste section of the Moyne Shire Council also fosters activities on National Tree Day and other weed control projects especially in and around Port Fairy's waterfronts, Battery Hill Reserve and Griffith Island. He also has oversight of pest animal control (foxes, rabbits etc.) He outlined some of the 2017 projects which involved Charles Mills Reserve, revegetation of Battery Hill Reserve and new garden beads on Railway Place. Rotarian, Hester Woodrup, thanked Richard for his informative presentation and presented him with a small gift in recognition.
|
|||||||
New roles assigned to Rotarian membersAt its Dinner Meeting held 17th July 2017, new Club President, Bill Moore, advised the members that he has asked Rotarians, Tony Bawden and David Digby to take on special roles within the Club. Both have indicated their willingness to serve in these roles.  .jpg) Tony Bawden (left) has been assigned to look after the Club's Communications & PR with particular responsibility on liaison with local media (press, radio etc.) and will work with Jill Gleeson who has overarching responsibility for these portfolios and Harry Bracegirdle who, as Club webmaster, monitors details on ClubRunner.In addition, because of the importance of the role, President Bill has asked Tony to also attend future Board meetings. David Digby (right), although one of the Club's newest members, has shown great willingness to get involved in volunteering projects and has agreed to oversee the Club's activities at Lighthouse Open Days as well as taking the lead role in managing the Tree Planting initiative which is a Rotary International targeted program in 2017/18.
|
|||||||
John Clue appointed Assistant District Governor
Prominent Port Fairy Rotarian and former Club President, John Clue, was recently appointed to the role of Assistant District Governor 2017/18 for the Rotary District 9780 (Group 5). Since joining the Rotary Club of Port Fairy in February 2012 John has been an enthusiastic member of the Club bringing his special skills, gleaned through many years of running his own business and more recently in Banking Administration with the Commonwealth Bank, to the benefit of Rotary. John was president of the Club during 2014/15 and has more recently taken on the role of Youth Officer steering the Club through a period when it hosted, for the first time, an out-going Rotary Exchange student who is currently spending 12 months in Canada. John's enthusiasm and dedication to this role has meant that the student was well prepared for the time spent overseas. From his year as President he spent time with other presidents from District 9780's Group 5 clubs and it is a natural extension that he now takes on the role of Assistant DG for this group over the next 12 months. The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is proud to have one of its members serving at this higher level and wish John every best wish for a successful year of leadership.
|
|||||||
Bill Moore inducted as new President for 2017/18
At its Changeover Dinner held 3rd July 2017 in Port Fairy's Victoria Hotel, the new Club President, Bill Moore, was inducted by Assistant District Governor, John Clue. Bill takes over the reins of the Club after a successful year under the guidance of out-going President, Adrian Crosier, who was roundly praised for his efforts over the last 12 months in engaging the Club in numerous community and international projects. |
|||||||
Recent report from Exchange student Lisa in Canada
Our Club's Exchange student, Lisa van Someren, is now nearing the midpoint of her exchange program to Canada and is about to finish the school year there (ending mid-year in the northern hemisphere) before taking off on a road trip with all the other 2017 exchange students in her region in Canada. She has now moved onto her second host family and, by all reports, is being kept very busy with so much to do, - not the least attending weekly Rotary Club meetings! Click on Read More to view Lisa's most recent report:
|
|||||||
Antarctic Visit On Monday 1 May 2017, Tracey Gray was our Guest Speaker and spoke on her visit to Antarctica in December 2016. The visit was lifelong ambition and Tracey joined a scientific expedition of 78 women scientists chosen worldwide, exploring this unique region. The group travelled from Argentina in South America for a 20 day long study tour led by Greg Mortimer. Tracey showed amazing photographs of her journey including the incredible landscape featuring icebergs, sheet ice, rugged coastlines amazing birdlife and marine mammals including various species of whales and seals. As a part of the study tour, they observed the breeding characteristics of penguins. Tracey also emphasized the changes that the vast continent is experiencing as a result of climate change.
|
|||||||
Beach Cleanup on Preserve Planet Earth DayThe Rotary Club of Port Fairy participated in Preserve Planet Earth Day last Saturday 22 April 2017 by collecting rubbish from a 5 kilometre section of East Beach. The clean up took 2 hours to complete and collected around 200 litres of rubbish. The participants split into 2 crews, one starting on the beach near the at the mouth of the river and the other went out to the Golf Course. In general the beach was found to be fairly clean but the Members involved were pleased with their effort and felt that it was a worthwhile project to recognise such an important day.  |
|||||||
Rotary Fashion Parade |
|||||||
Child Safe Policy AdoptedAt the meeting held on the 12 April 2017, the Board adopted a Child Safe Policy for our Club. The policy has 7 Standards which the club has adopted to ensure our Club is committed to child safety. It has confirmed that all new members inducted from the 1 January 2017 must hold a Working with Children Card and also we will encourage all existing members to also obtain a Working with Children Card. It also commits our Club to only use members and volunteers that have obtained a Working with Children Card at events where interaction with children is likely. The Club has also appointed John Clue as a Child Safety Person responsible for responding to any complaints or concerns. In addition to this, all Members will be required to sign a Code of Conduct which outlines appropriate standards of behaviour by adults towards children. The full policy document is available on Clubrunner under Download Files. |
|||||||
Induction of new member - Diane Walker
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy welcomed new member, Diane Walker, to its ranks at its Dinner Meeting on 27th March 2017 at the Victoria Hotel. Diane (centre in picture below) was inducted by Club President, Adrian Crosier, and was sponsored by long standing friend, Hester Woodrup. Members and guests warmly welcomed Diane to the Club.  |
|||||||
Rotary finds a new home at the Victoria HotelThe Rotary Club of Port Fairy has decided to change the location of its Dinner meetings from the Star to the Vic. |
|||||||
Rotary benefits from the Folk Festival
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy had a successful fundraising period over the course of this year's Port Fairy Folk Festival. Its traditional sausage sizzle outside the ticketing tent raised a net profit of around $1,100 whilst, for the work our volunteers did in manning the festival gate, a similar figure is expected from the Folk Festival Committee. All proceeds of Rotary fundraising activities are put towards community projects.
|
|||||||
Our President Elect's report on PETS trainingRotarian, and President Elect of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy is gearing up for when he takes over as Club President in July. Last weekend he attended PETS (President Elects Training Scheme) in Ballarat. Attached his his report.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club gets behind cure for polio
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is getting behind a world-wide push by Rotary International to help finally eradicate polio from the modern world. As of the start of 2017 there are only two countries in the world, Pakistan and Afghanistan, where the polio-endemic still exists. In this regard, polio eradication - a long-term objective of Rotary - is not yet finished. The remaining 0.1% of polio cases are the most difficult to prevent because the virus persists in the hardest to reach areas so the fight is not quite finished but is close.
The Port Fairy club is selling special "eradicate polio badges" to raise funds for the cause knowing that world-wide, every dollar raised is matched 2:1 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Through 2018, every $1 Rotary commits to WHO and UNICEF in support of polio immunisation will be match with $2 by the Gates Foundation. This means that a $25 donation becomes $75 that will fund a host of eradication initiatives.
End-Polio badges can be obtained, on donation, from Rotarian, John Clue.
|
|||||||
Report from Exchange student Lisa
Our director of Youth Matters, John Clue, has recently received an update from our Rotary Exchange student, Lisa van Someren, who is now into the third month of her exchange program in Ontario Canada. See Read More for Lisa's report.
|
|||||||
Rotary Fundraising Update
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy may have been on recess from meetings during January 2017 but the Club remained active on a number of fronts including some successful fundraising activities.
Apart from the voluntary work done in conducting the Backwards Running Race as part of the NYE Moyneyana Festival and managing a venue for the Port Fairy Jazz Festival, the club also ran a NYE BBQ that raised ~$674, finalised ticket sales for the annual Car Raffle that netted a profit of $2,434 and a Painting Raffle which, although not yet been finalised, should realise a profit of ~$1,000 when all costs are accounted for.
The Club is grateful for the donation of a painting by Wilma Preston for the raffle and the work of all Rotarians in helping sell raffle tickets and run BBQs.
|
|||||||
Lisa's off to Canada (Updated report)
THIS IS AN UPDATE ON OUR EXCHANGE STUDENT'S TRIP TO CANADA
Our Rotary Exchange student, Lisa van Someren, left for Canada on January 14th, 2017 to join her first host family live in a town called Sweaburg, just south of Woodstock, Ontario.
Lisa's family have received an email from Frances Stevens in Canada and sent advice on her family and on Lisa's schooling in Woodstock which commences on 6th February.
The host family sent photos of themselves as well as a photo of their backyard showing much snow at this time of the year. Frances and her husband, Ian, have three children - Scott (17), John (15) and Alison (12). SEE PHOTOS BELOW.
The Stevens' family enjoy reading, games, movies and .....Outdoor activities: Warm weather – camping, soccer, biking, walking, canoeing, swimming; Cold weather – skiing (both downhill and cross country), tobogganing, curling, not much skating but it is popular in Woodstock and many of their friends participate regularly. Being an active sportsperson, Lisa is set for a very entertaining stay.
Lisa arrived safely and sent the following report to our Club Exchange Coordinator, John Clue.
Hi John,
I made it to Canada alright. I did miss one flight (Vancouver to Toronto) due to the a big line up in immigration but I rebooked a new flight and made my way to Toronto where I met my family.
They are all really nice. After meeting them we went back to their ski house for the night.
On day two I went and watched my siblings ski and Frances (my host mum) signed me up. So I get to snowboard next weekend!!
It hasn't got to cold yet. It was about 0 but then dropped to -6. There is snow everywhere so that is cool:
So, so far I'm having a great time.
Regards, Lisa
   |
|||||||
Update on Rotary Exchange Program
January 14th, 2017 is a significant date in the life of Lisa van Someren who the Rotary Club of Port Fairy has sponsored to travel to Canada as part of the 2017 Rotary Youth Exchange Program. This is the day Lisa leaves Melbourne to travel to Woodstock, Ontario in Canada to spend 12 months away from home being hosted by a number of Rotary-connected families in Canada as well as attending school in Woodstock.
As part of her development, Lisa gave members of the Port Fairy Club a preview of the presentation she will eventually give to her host club in Canada, the Rotary Club of Woodstock. The presentation will give her new found, overseas friends an insight into her family life and home in Waroon (near Port Fairy) details on Melbourne and Australia as well as information on the local cultures, animals, landmarks and overall life in Australia.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club inducts new member, David Digby.jpg)
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy was pleased to welcome new member, David Digby, who was inducted into Rotary at the Club Dinner Meeting on 5th December 2016.
David, who was accompanied by wife Debra, was both sponsored and inducted into the Club by President, Adrian Crosier in front of members and guests.
Adrian gave a brief overview of David's career, mainly in state and local government undertaking urban design and landscaping, skills that should be invaluable to the Rotary Club.
|
|||||||
From the archive
The Rotary Club's long standing member, Col Martin, recently brought to a Club meeting a Bulletin he found in his old Rotary files that outlined the Club's make-up in 1985-86.
The two-page bulletin is reproduced below for the information of more recent members. A bulletin from that era is a lot different to the ones we can deliver these days via ClubRunner!
Many thanks to Col for bringing it to our attention.
See also the story above which was recently written up about 102 year old Col and published in the Rotary Down Under magazine.
  |
|||||||
A Toast for Col
The Rotary Down Under magazine recently published a story on the Club's oldest member, 102 year old Colwyn Martin. The story, written by President, Adrian Crosier, was published under the magazines "Unsung Heroes" page that honours those heroes of Rotary. The article from the magazine is republished below and speaks of Col's dedication to delivering the grace and loyal toast at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's dinner meeting each Monday night.  |
|||||||
Vale Rob Baker
Members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy were among the hundreds of guests attending the memorial service held 23rd November 2016 to celebrate the life of Rob Baker.
Rob was a "larger than life" character that who was widely known and loved by his many friends in Port Fairy. Rob, a former member and Past President of the Rotary Club, passed away after suffering a stroke on 20th November.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Pam, along with their three children - Nigel, Daniel and Heidi - and Rob's grandchildren who despite all having to travel from overseas were present at his passing and at the service held at the Port Fairy Surf Club.
Rob was, until recent years, a very active member of the Rotary Club and his smiling face and happy-go-lucky attitude will be be greatly missed in Port Fairy. The best wishes of all Rotarians are extended to Pam and her children.
Some images of Rob from the Rotary archives are presented below.
    |
|||||||
Rotary helps raise over $5,000 for Bandari
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held a very successful Open Gardens Day on Sunday 20th November 2016 which raised $5,754 for the Bandari Project to assist the building and maintenance of school facilities in the Tanzanian town of Mto Wambu.
Run in conjunction with the Bandari Committee, Rotarian, Margaret Whitehead, organised nine gardens to be open in Port Fairy's iconic "Albert Road" district. In all, some 174 patrons visited the gardens on the day which was blessed with fantastic weather. In all, $4,350 was raised by ticket sales supplemented by $952 for a raffle with plants and produce sales together with donations, raised a further $452.
An afternoon tea on offer at Korongah House was included in the entry price. All up some 24 volunteers assisted on the day.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club learns all about vaulting
At its Dinner Meeting on 14th November, members and guests of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy learned about the sport of Vaulting when its nominee for the Rotary Youth Exchange program in 2107, Lisa van Someren, gave a presentation on her chosen sport which is likened to gymnastics on horseback.
Lisa has been involved in the sport for over 6 years and is the head coach at the Vaulting Club that bears the family name and operates from the family farm at Warrong near Kirkstall. The vaulting club is one of only four vaulting clubs operating in Victoria which means that Lisa has to travel interstate often in order to compete.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club assists the Port Fairy Community Lunch program
Members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy have been active during October 2016 by providing a host of volunteers for catering duties at the recently launched, Port Fairy Community Lunch being conducted at the local Community House.
Each Tuesday in October, up to six Rotarians are helping with the lunch program by planning and cooking meals, serving the guests and cleaning up after the meal.
See Photo Gallery for images of the Community Lunch Program.
|
|||||||
|
|||||||
|
|||||||
|
|||||||
|
|||||||
Presidents Report July 2016
|
|||||||
Adrian Crosier takes on presidency of the Rotary Club
Adrian Crosier was inducted as President of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy at the Club's Changeover Dinner at the Star of the West Hotel held on 4th July 2016.
Adrian takes over from out-going president, Michael Crowe, who presented the Annual Report to 75 members and guests at the Dinner.
|
|||||||
Port Fairy Rotary has success in sponsoring Exchange student
Past President, and current director of Youth Affairs for the Rotary Club, John Clue, was proud to announce that the Club's nominee for the 2107 Rotary Youth Exchange Program, Lisa van Someren, was selected by the District 9780 Exchange Committee to be part of the 2107 program.
Following informal interviews held in Hall Gap in May and more intensive interviews held on 4th June in Ballarat, John was pleased to receive news that Lisa was successful in her bid to join the program and will now leave for Canada in January 2017.
|
|||||||
Principal of Emmanuel College addresses the Rotary Club
The current Principal of Emmanuel College in Warrnambool, Peter Morgan, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club's Dinner meeting on 30th May.
Peter, who has been Principal at the College since 2013, gave a very forthright insight into the status of education in Australia and how it measures up to education programs in other countries. It is his belief that Australians are somewhat blase about about children's education and that there is not quite the same pressure to succeed as, say, Singapore and China - countries that place great emphasis and passion on teaching and learning.
|
|||||||
A "noteworthy" guest speaker!
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy had a very interesting guest speaker at its Dinner Meeting held on 16th May 2016.
Richard Patterson and his wife Jan, were guests of the Club and Richard gave a very entertaining and enlightening talk about the evolution of bank note printing in Australia and overseas. It proved to be a much more interesting topic than one first conjured although I guess most of us are always interested in stories about money.
|
|||||||
Club supporting the Rotary Youth Exchange Program
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has recently committed to supporting an outbound student in the District 9780 Rotary Youth Exchange Program (RYEP).
Led by the Club's Youth Director, John Clue, the Club is sponsoring Hawkesdale P12 student, Lisa Van Someren, for the 2017 outbound exchange program. If Lisa is successful in being selected by the District she is hoping to be able to spend 12 months living and studying in Germany through 2017.
|
|||||||
Olympian, Judy Pollock, addresses Rotary Club
Former Olympian, and now Port Fairy resident, Judy Pollock, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner meeting held on 9th May 2016 at the Star of the West Hotel.
Judy has had a polished athletic career culminating in her induction to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in December 1988.
|
|||||||
Report on Bandari School Project
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy, and particularly Rotarian Geoff Coxall, have been closely associated with the Bandari School Project over a number of years to build facilities in Mto Wambu in Tanzania.
The volunteers from Port Fairy have grown in 2016 when a group of locals went to Tanzania to complete work on the kindergarten/school built in 2015 and also add a toilet block and chook shed.
|
|||||||
President's Report - April 2016Report by President, Michael Crowe, covering the period January to April 2016. Despite the recess over January, the Club was nevertheless active on many fronts.
|
|||||||
Report on Rotary Club Trivia Night 2016
The annual Trivia Night for the Rotary Club of Port Fairy was held on 18th April 2016 and again proved to be a popular and fun event.
13 teams, comprising some 70+ players, competed for the trophy over six rounds from some challenging questions set bt traditional quizmaster, Pauline McDonald.
|
|||||||
Lighthouse Tours - a great fundraiser for Rotary
The opening of the Port Fairy lighthouse on Griffiths Island over Easter was a great fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. The lighthouse was open to the public on Saturday and Sunday and raised $1,363 for the Club which will be put towards community projects.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club Trivia Night 2016
The annual Trivia Night for the Rotary Club of Port Fairy will be held on Monday 18th April at the Star of the West from 6.30pm.
The cost, including a two-course meal is $30 per head.
Teams, normally made up of 6 person, will compete for prizes but above all, will have a great night of fun!
|
|||||||
Rotary benefits from Folkie and Easter weekend fundraising
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy was again active during the Port Fairy Folk Festival long weekend from the 11th to 14th March. Club members raised funds at the sausage sizzle on Friday outside the ticketing tent and then over the weekend by manning the festival gate.
As Easter approaches the Club will engage on more fundraising activities by conducting lighthouse tours on Easter Saturday and Sunday.
|
|||||||
President's Report - December 2015
Report from President Michael Crowe to December 2015 shows the many activities that the Rotary Club undertook in the last few months of 2015 from October to December before the Club went into recess - at least as far as meetings were concerned.
Nevertheless, despite not meeting formally in January the Club remained very active on community and fundraising projects over the Christmas and summer period.
|
|||||||
Guest speaker Damian Gleeson talks of Gallipoli journey
The proprietor of the Star of the West Hotel and well known Port Fairy identity, Damian Gleeson, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club's Dinner meeting held at the hotel on 5th October 2015. Damian, his wife Sue and other friends had made the journey to Gallipoli to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing in the 1st World War. In his presentation to the Rotary Club Damian spoke about his Gallipoli journey.
|
|||||||
Over $900 raised from Spring Raffle
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy raised over $900 from its 2015 Spring Raffle. The raffle was conducted over October and the winning prize was a wheelbarrow load of gardening and hardware products from Brookes Timber & Hardware in Port Fairy valued at $327. In all 607 tickets were sold.
The winning ticket was drawn by the proprietor of Brookes Timber & Hardware, June Brookes, on Friday 9th October. The winning ticket, #105, was purchased by Ron McCormick from Ararat. Ironically, Ron is the President of the Ararat Rotary Club and was visiting the town.
Pictured below is Rotary Club President, Michael Crowe, with June Brookes and raffle organiser, Rotarian, Adrian Crosier during the drawing of the winning ticket.
 |
|||||||
President Report - October 2015
It has now been 3 months since Michael Crowe, assumed the role of President at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. The three months have gone quickly and the Club has been very active over that period.
Here is Michael's reflections on the first three months of his term of office.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club to host Fundraiser film
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy will soon host a theatre night at the Port Fairy's Reardon Theatre in Bank Street as part of its annual fundraising effort.
The movie, Force of Destiny, will be screened on Friday 2nd October at 7.30pm. Entry to the event is $15 and tickets can be purchased on the evening.
|
|||||||
War correspondent’s chilling tales
Journalist and war correspondent Chris Adams was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy’s dinner meeting on 14 September 2015. Chris has over 45 years experience in the media including a number of tours of duty in war zones. He explained how his lifetime of involvement in the media was driven by a great curiosity about how the other half lives and thinks.
|
|||||||
Rotary Open Gardens Day 2015
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy will again conduct an "Open Gardens Day" fundraising event on Sunday 1st November 2015.
This will be the third year that the Club has run this very popular and successful event. Entry to the four gardens on display will be $20 which includes a light refreshment. Again, this year, the funds raised will go to the Moyne Health Services.
|
|||||||
High profile coach in Port Fairy layup
The Head Coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, Brett Brown, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's dinner meeting on 10 August 2015.
The 76ers are one of 30 teams in the US National Basketball Association that is the premier men’s basketball league in the world.
|
|||||||
Rotary ends year on a social note!
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held its last Dinner meeting for the 2014/15 Rotary year by holding a Pizza Night at local pizzeria, Madagalli's in Port Fairy on 22nd June 2015.
This was the last meeting for President, John Clue, to preside over before "handing on the reins" to President-Elect Michael Crowe at the Changeover Dinner to be held 29th June. John kept formalities to a minimum, announcing important details of next week's Changeover meeting before thanking all members for their support during his term of office.
|
|||||||
Rotary Clubs tidy up around Port Fairy's Battery Hill
Eleven members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy, assisted by four members fo the Rotary Club of Warrnambool Daybreak, carried out some valuable community work on Sunday 24th May in clearing weeds and other encroaching vegetation from around the pathways around Port Fairy's Battery Hill Reserve.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club helps out in Tanzania
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is helping to build a kindergarten in the village of Mto Wambu in Tanzania as a gesture of support to Port Fairy resident, Seif Sakate, who was raised in Mto Wambu before marrying a Port Fairy girl and eventually moving to Australia to live with his wife and baby son (pictured).
 |
|||||||
Bamstone's Michael Steel talks to Rotary Club
Michael Steel, the CEO of Port Fairy's Bamstone, the country's premier supplier of bluestone products, addressed the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner meeting on 11th May 2015. Michael's presentation about the history and work of Bamstone was informative and enlightening for all present.
|
|||||||
Progressive Dinner raises over $900 for Rotary Club
A Progressive Dinner held by the Rotary Club of Port Fairy raised over $900 on Saturday 2nd May when 42 members and friends socialised at three Port Fairy locations on what was a very enjoyable evening.
|
|||||||
Rotary inducts another new member - Lucy King
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy was pleased to add another new member to its ranks when Lucy King was inducted into the Club and Rotary at its Dinner Meeting on 20th April 2015.
Sponsored by Brett Murray, Lucy becomes the youngest member of the Club which, in an era where Rotary is striving hard to recruit young members, is a great achievement.
|
|||||||
Video from first boat to Vanuatu after Cyclone Pam
A video on the response by the first boat to reach and provide emergency aid to the Shepard Islands in Vanuatu following the devastation by Cyclone Pam has been loaded onto YouTube and is well worth a view.
|
|||||||
Col Martin delivers Grace & Loyal Toast
Centurion, Colwyn Martin, who turned 100 on 30th June 2014, regularly delivers the Grace & Loyal Toast at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner Meetings held each Monday evening at the Star of the West Hotel in Port Fairy.
In order to capture the memory of Col's unfailing service to the Club in presenting the Grace & Loyal Toast, a video was made in March 2015.
See the video in the Video Library (accessible from the Menu above) or go to the video on YouTube at https://youtu.be/HeB2c_vOW-A
|
|||||||
Rotary inducts another new member
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy added three new members in February 2015 and has since increased its membership to 27 with the induction of newest member, Joanne (Jo) Levey, at its Dinner Meeting on 30th March.
|
|||||||
Yvette Raymond - Rotary Club's nominee for National Youth Science Forum
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy sponsored local schoolgirl, Yvette Raymond, in attending the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) that was held at the ANU in Canberra over twelve days in January 2015.
Yvette, who was selected from a strong field of nominees to attend the forum, spoke briefly to members of the Rotary Club at its Dinner meeting on 8th December 2014 before returning to the Club on 30th March 2015 to give an account of her experience at the NYSF.
|
|||||||
Vascular Surgeon - Rotary Guest speaker
At the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner meeting on 23rd March, Associate Professor David McClure spoke on his work as a vascular surgeon and the changes in modern techniques where vascular surgery can be used to treat a range of diseases. |
|||||||
It's all about "Schoolies"
Tayla Root, from Port Fairy, was guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner meeting on 23rd February 2015. Tayla had recently returned from the Philippines where she spent a few weeks as part of an entourage of local students engaged in an "Alternative to Schoolies" program to assist a small community in Mindanao with refurbishment of a school library. Tayla was in the Philippines in November and December 2014.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club inducts three new members
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy inducted three new members to the club at its Dinner Meeting held 23rd February 2015.
President, John Clue, conducted the induction ceremonies as Jude Dawson, sponsored by Rotarian, Jim Robinson, Bill Moore, sponsored by Adrian Crosier and Peter Smith, sponsored by John Ellard, were all welcomed into the club. The meeting was attended by 34 Rotarians, family members and guests. The induction of the new members lifts the Club's membership to 26.
|
|||||||
Report on Rotary Club's Trivia Night
The Rotary Club's annual Trivia Night was held at the Star of the West Hotel last night where 79 people enjoyed a good meal, good friendship and lots of fun in answering a host of questions compiled by Quizmaster - Pauline McDonald.
The winning team was the Port Fairy CWA, called "Clever Wise Academics", led by Jenny Grenfell that amassed 50 points over six rounds and just beat Marg Whitehead's "Girls plus One" team on 48 points. Michael Crowe's team, named "Misfits", finished an honourable third with 48 points.
|
|||||||
Folky grant to Rotary supports Taksenkangbloung Community Centre in Cambodia
Grant funding from the Port Fairy Folk Festival Committee, awarded to the Rotary Club of Port Fairy, was recently presented to Jenny & Rebecca Birchell for the Taksenkangbloung Community Centre in Cambodia.
The Rotary Club had successfully applied for financial support from the Folk Festival grants program to support the good work being carried out by Jenny Birchell and her daughter, Rebecca, in establishing a support centre for children in the Cambodian town.
|
|||||||
Painting Raffle raises much needed funds for Rotary Club
The Rotary Club's annual "Painting Raffle" was concluded on Saturday 31st January 2015 when President John Clue drew the winning ticket.
The winner was Luke Barber, of Henty Highway, Glenisla with ticket number 0492.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club meetings for 2015 resume 2nd February
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy will resume its regular Dinner Meetings on Monday 2nd February 2015 after a break over the summer period.
Although the Club did not hold regular meetings over January it was nevertheless active over the summer period with involvement in the Moyneyana Festival - running the Retro Running Race on New Years Eve as well as a sausage sizzle during the NYE parade. The club also helped out with parking at the rodeo held at the Port Fairy Showgrounds and continued its selling of raffle tickets at the wharf markets and in Sackville street.
|
|||||||
PP Margaret Whitehead honoured with an OAM
Past President of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy, and recent recipient of a Paul Harris Fellowship, was again honoured in the 2015 Australia Day awards when she was awarded an OAM for her contribution to community service over many years.
The Rotary Club congratulates Margaret on this distinguished and well deserved recognition.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club receives funding support from Port Fairy Folk FestivalThe Rotary Club of Port Fairy received substantial grant funding from the Port Fairy Folk Festival in December 2014.
In all, three projects were supported with support for building a kindergarten in Tanzania, a "chook house" in Cambodia as well as funding to purchase twi defibrillators for the Port Fairy township.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club breaks for Xmas periodMembers of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy enjoyed a relaxed BBQ and break-up party at Charles Mills Reserve on the banks of the Moyne River on Monday 15th December. This is the final, formal gathering of members before going into recess until 2nd February 2015. However, this does not mean that members will be getting a rest as the Club is engaged in many activities over the summer period.
|
|||||||
Men's Health Forum 2014
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy, in partnership with the Lions Club of Port Fairy-Belfast and the Port Fairy Men's Shed, held a Men's Health Forum in the Community Services Centre in Port Fairy on 27th November 2014.
Over 50 people (both men and women) attended the forum that showcased a number of keynote speakers who delivered informative presentations and was followed up by a short panel discussion session and ended with a supper. The evening was MC'd by John Clue, the President of the Rotary Club.
|
|||||||
Shoes for TanzaniaThe Rotary Club of Port Fairy is currently engaged in a project to collect second hand shoes for the Mto Wambu village in Tanzania.
The project is part of a larger program in support for local Port Fairy identity, Seif Sakate pictured below with his son. Seif, who grew up in the village in the Arusha region of Tanzania, is collecting shoes to help the youth in the village who have to trek over 8 Kms each day to school and back.
|
|||||||
District Governor, Geoff James, visits RC of Port Fairy
The Governor of Rotary District 9780, Geoff James, and his wife Meryl, joined members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy at their Dinner Meeting at the Star of the West Hotel on 17th November 2014.
Geoff, accompanied by wife Beryl, started an enlightened presentation with a song. As accomplished musicians and songwriter, Geoff and Meryl have performed at many functions and their rendition to the tune of “This is Australia” but with a slightly changed chorus that ended in ….you are”, we are, we all are Rotarians” then he soon got the members singing.
|
|||||||
Port Fairy Men's Health Forum
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has joined the Lions Club of Port Fairy-Belfast and the Port Fairy Men's Shed in sponsoring a Men's Health Forum at 7.30pm Thursday 27th November 2014 in the Moyne Shire Community Services Centre in Atkinson Street, Port Fairy. Download Men's Health Forum flyer
This is a collaborative effort by the three organisations - all of whom have a vested interest in maintaining men's health. The forum will feature speakers from Beyond Blue, Ambulance Victoria, Peter's Project and the Port Fairy Medical Centre. There will also be short case studies presented by local Port Fairy identities. A focus of the evening will be on depression, prostate cancer and dealing with the early symptoms of stroke.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club hosts another successful Open Gardens Day
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held another successful Open Gardens Day fundraising event on Sunday 16th November 2014. This year's event saw five Port Fairy Gardens on display that raised approximately $3,400 that will ultimately go towards the Club's target of raising $10,000 towards the Port Fairy Hospital refurbishment program.
|
|||||||
Margaret Whitehead receives prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship award from Rotary
Former Club President, Margaret Whitehead, received a special recognition award - a Paul Harris Fellowship - from Rotary International at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner meeting held 10th November 2014.
The award specifically acknowledges the work Margaret has done over 46 years of community service and not just her recent contribution to Rotary since joining the club in 2009.
|
|||||||
|
|||||||
Proofreading is a dying art - wouldn't you say?
For your amusement, here are some classic headlines that cries out for better proofreading. These were too good not to share – doesn’t anyone read what they write anymore ??? |
|||||||
Water to East Timor (WET) - Andrew Graham (RC of Warrnambool East)-andrew-graham-(rc-of-warrnambool-east)/AndrewGraham-TimorLeste.JPG)
Andrew Graham, from the Rotary Club of Warrnambool East, was the guest speaker at Port Fairy Rotary Club's Dinner Meeting on 22nd September. Andrew spoke enthusiastically about his WET program covering 16 trips to Timor Leste over 10 years since 2004. His work there covered 5 major projects:
|
|||||||
Rotary Community Raffle
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy conducted a community raffle over four consecutive Fridays in September that returned a net profit of ~$700. All funds raised from the raffle will go into community projects. The raffle prize of$300 worth of hardware and garden supplies assembled into a wheelbarrow from Brookes Timber & Hardware in Port Fairy was won by Tai Hedger of Koroit. Well done Tai! |
|||||||
David Lee (CEO - Moyne Health Services) addresses Rotary Club-addresses-rotary-club/DavidLee8-9-141R.jpg)
David Lee, the CEO of Moyne Health Services, in Port Fairy gave an insightful presentation to Rotary Club of Port Fairy members and guests at its Dinner Meeting on 8th September 2014. David outlined the progress of the Port Fairy Hospital Refurbishment Project that is due to commence with site clearing on 13th September 2014. |
|||||||
Vale Derek Southey
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy is saddened to advise of the recent passing of past Rotarian, Derek Southey. Derek, for many years, was an energetic servant of the Club, particularly in his roles of Treasurer and historian. Derek finally succumbed to his fight with cancer over recent years, passing away at home on 29th July 2014. |
|||||||
John Clue inducted as new the President of Rotary Club of Port Fairy
John Clue was inducted as the new President of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy at the Club's Changeover Dinner held at the Star of the West Hotel on Monday 7th July 2014. |
|||||||
Rotary Club welcomes new member - Danny Warner
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy welcomed a new member, Danny Warner, who was inducted by President, Hester Woodrup at it's Dinner Meeting on 30th June 2014. Danny, who recently moved to Port Fairy with partner Sharon Arnold to take over the running of the Port Fairy Post Office, is a welcome addition to the Club's membership base. |
|||||||
Progressive Dinner raises funds for Muscular Dystrophy
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held a very successful Progressive Dinner on 17th May to raise funds for Muscular Dystrophy Australia (MDA). $895 was raised at the event, which was supplemented by Club funds, to make up a cheque of $1,000 presented to MDA at the Club's Dinner meeting on 19th May. |
|||||||
President's Report for May 2014
Hello Rotarians, As 2014 flies past quickly we can reflect on our busy calendar of the past few months. Guest Speaker, Ian Holten, gave us a wonderful presentation on the many aspects of Interplast. From corrective surgery, training people on site and the respect of cultures within each country, we learnt of the great work being done overseas. |
|||||||
President's Report for April 2014
Hello Rotarians, Easter is almost upon us again and we are busy planning future events for the next few months. Recently Margaret Whitehead and myself attended the District 9520 conference in Warrnambool, manning the RDU stand. |
|||||||
Rotary House Warrnambool - Video
The Rotary House project in Warrnambool is finally completed and a recently created video tells the story of its origins and the work by the Rotary Clubs in the region, and especially the work by Rotarian, Andrew Suggett, to bring the project to fruition. See story |
|||||||
Rotary Club lends further support Nepalese Education Program
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy again played host to guest speakers from the Rotary Club of Portland Bay, Karen Stock and Margaret Millard, who spoke about their involvement in a Quality Education Program in Nepal that is designed to provide teacher training in the Myagdi District of Western Nepal. Their presentation follows a previous presentation in August 2013 and gave club members an update on the program. |
|||||||
Rotary presents cheque to Peter's Project
As part of the Peter's Project initiative to raise funds from local communities in support of the establishment of a cancer treatment centre in Warrnambool, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy, like many local organisations in SW Victoria, have been busy fundraising for this very worthy cause. Following pledges from the Federal and State governments to fund the project, the call to raise $1M from the local community is well on the way to meeting its target due to the efforts of Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs and many other community groups in the region. At its meeting on 17th February. the Club presented a cheque for over $5,768 to Peter's Project coordinator, Vicki Jellie. |
|||||||
James McLean to represent Rotary Club at RYLA
James McLean, the son of Port Fairy Rotarian, Jeff McLean, and Jenny McLean will be sponsored by the Rotary Club of Port Fairy to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Award in 2014. |
|||||||
President's Report for February 2014
Welcome Rotarians to 2014 and our new Rotary year. Before we move onto future projects it is with pride we can reflect on our summer efforts. It was good see member support at the New Year’s Eve events - the Retro Running race on New Years' Eve (both heats and finals) and for the members who worked on the barbecue at the Moyneyana Festival NYE Parade in the heat and giving up time before attending their own end of year social events. Also to the many ticket sellers for the Wilma Preston Painting Raffle held over the four markets during January - a big thank you. |
|||||||
Some politically incorrect ageing jokes |
|||||||
Open Garden's Day 16th December 2013
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held a very successful Open Garden's Day in December where $4,285 was raised for Interplast. In all, six gardens were on display on 16th December 2013 and the Rotary Club is very grateful for the support of who opened their gardens on the day. |
|||||||
President's Report for December 2013
Hello fellow Rotarians, We as a club have concluded many weeks of varied activities within and outside of Rotary. Several members witnessed the opening of Rotary House in Warrnambool in which all district Rotary clubs can be justifiably proud. Members have also attended functions in Port Fairy these last few weeks: Lions Cup Eve Dinner, Community House AGM and the Year-6 graduation evenings from both St Patrick’s and Consolidated Schools. Members also attended the Port Fairy Fire Brigade Annual Dinner and Presentation Night. |
|||||||
Report on the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Annual Trivia Night
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held its annual Trivia Night on 18th November 2013 at the Star of the West Hotel. |
|||||||
President's Report for October 2013
Hello fellow Rotarians, Our busy season is upon us and our club activities and fund raising events are in full swing. Next Monday, 21st October, we are having our annual Club Assembly. This can be worthwhile as members have the chance to express their point of view on the many aspects of the club. Come along and help with future planning on our how we conduct meetings, fundraising, service projects and other topics. |
|||||||
Visit by District Governor - Ken McInerney
District 9780 Governor, Ken McInerney, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner Meeting held on 9th September 2013. Ken, who hails from Bordertown, was making his 26th visit to a district club since taking over the DG role in July. |
|||||||
President's Report for August 2013
Hello fellow Rotarians, As the weeks of this cold winter have flown by many of our members have been away from Rotary meetings, travelling to warmer parts of Australia or overseas. However, our club has been pro-active in organising a public meeting, in conjunction with the Port Fairy Lions Club, to promote fundraising efforts in Port Fairy for Peters Project to build a Cancer Centre in Warrnambool. |
|||||||
Guest Speakers from RC of Portland Bay
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy played host to guest speakers from the Rotary Club of Portland Bay, Karen Stock and Margaret Millard, who spoke about their involvement in a Quality Education Program in Nepal that is designed to provide teacher training in the Myagdi District of Western Nepal. |
|||||||
Brenda Hampson - Guest speaker at Rotary meeting
Former Councillor and Mayor of Moyne Shire Council, Brenda Hampson, was the guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. Brenda is now the coordinator of ConnectU which is a not for profit organisation based in Warrnambool that provides transport assistance and services to connect people in need of transport services. |
|||||||
President's Report for July
Hello Fellow Rotarians, Since my induction 2 weeks ago projects have already begun. It was decided at last week's meeting, and my first as President, to be actively involved with Peter's Project, the much needed cancer center in Warrnambool. The Lions Club of Port Fairy would like our club to be joint coordinators of a fund raising campaign in Port Fairy. We shall in the near future hold a public meeting for interested people to form a committee to plan future fundraising for this project. |
|||||||
Hester Woodrup inducted as new President for 2013/14
At the Changeover Dinner held 15th July 2013, Hester Woodrup was inducted as the new President of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy. Hester took over the reins from out-going President, Margaret Whitehead who was stepping down after a successful 12-month period as leader. |
|||||||
Rotarians Clean Up!
Members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy did their bit to help clean up Port Fairy. Having agreed to take on a community project to help keep tidy the road out to the Golf Club (covering Griffith Street through Skenes Road to Woodbine Road). The Rotary Club had its first clean-up day on Friday 28th June. |
|||||||
Rotary Club to "adopt" the Golf Club road into Port Fairy
As part of its community engagement, the Rotary Club of Port Fairy has received permission from the Moyne Shire Council to "adopt" the road into Port Fairy that runs past the local golf links. The proposal by the Club is to maintain the general cleanliness and appearance of the roadside by occasionally removing rubbish and weeds from the grass verges from around Connolly Street to where Woodbine Road meets the highway. |
|||||||
Rotary hosts Lighthouse Tours
The Rotary Club hosted the opening of the Port Fairy lighthouse during the Port Fairy Winter Weekends Festival held from 7th to 10th June. The lighthouse on Griffith Island is only opened to the public a few times each year with tours being coordinated by local community groups like the SES, Rotary and the Historical Society who use the opportunity to raise funds. |
|||||||
President - Margaret Whitehead's Report for June 2013
Dear Rotarians, This is my last newsletter as I wind down my year as President. The year has been busy for Rotarians and we should be proud of our achievements in fund raising and service to the community. I thank everyone for their efforts. |
|||||||
Students entertain Port Fairy Rotarians
Students from the Port Fairy Consolidated School entertained members of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy when they attended the club's Dinner Meeting at the Star of the West Hotel on June 3rd. |
|||||||
President's Report for April 2013
Hello Rotarians, The Police Golf Day on Monday was the last of our commitments for a while. We have had a busy summer and autumn season, so now we can have a rest and enjoy the fellowship of Rotary. We have an Italian Night to kick off Warrnambool Race Week. This will be held at the Whitehead home at 38 Albert Road on Monday 29th April. It will be a partner’s night and will commence at 6.30pm. |
|||||||
Literacy Support Program extended by Rotary Club
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has extended its Literacy Support Program by continuing to provide books to the parents of new born babies in Port Fairy with book purchases in March 2014 being supplemented by further funding being approved in October when another 29 books will be delivered th the local community centre. In March, Rotarian, Diana Bracegirdle, delivered some thirty books to the Moyne Shire Community Services Centre in Port Fairy who manage the distribution of the books to the newborns. |
|||||||
Rotary at the Murray-to-Moyne Relay Cycle Race
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy again provided valuable support to the annual Murray-to-Moyne Relay Cycle Race by carrying out all the BBQing duties to feed the hungry cyclists and support personnel on arrival in Port Fairy after two days of hard riding from various townships along the Murray River.
|
|||||||
Making the most of ClubRunner
Club members use ClubRunner for their Bulletin and to register for rostered events but the Club's website which is hosted by ClubRunner contains much more information for members. Information of importance to club members is viewable in the Site Pages option, many of which have limited access for members only. |
|||||||
President's Report for March 2013
Hello Rotarians, February seemed to disappear in front of our eyes. Hester Woodrup attended PETS (President Elect Training) in Ballarat this weekend. My term will soon finish and Hester will take over. We had an enjoyable and profitable time with the Recreational Vehicle Fellowship of Rotary visitors. For those members who did not attend the joint meeting, this group would have spent a minimum of $30,000 in the town for the 5 days of their visit. Their visit also enabled our Club to raise some funds from the BBQ we ran for them during their stay. |
|||||||
Hester off to PETS!
Our President Elect, Hester Woodrup, will attend the PETS (President Elect Training Scheme) at a District 9780 function in Ballarat over the weekend 1st to 3rd March. This will be the start of the journey leading up to Hester taking on the role of Club President in July. All members are urged to give Hester every support as she gears up for what will be a big year. |
|||||||
Rita Hayworth dances to the Bee Gees!
I recently came across a fascinating adaptation of some of the great old time dancers (Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth, Gene Kelly et al) dancing to a modern beat. Click on this link below to see a fantastic YouTube video of these great dancers from yesteryear dancing to the Bee Gees "Stayin' Alive". You will certainly admire how much work has gone into making this video. Make sure you have your sound turned up! |
|||||||
Your Rotary commitments
March is a busy month for the Rotary Club, especially around Folk Festival time. This year, Good Friday also falls in March and we have a commitment to help the Royal Children's Hospital Appeal cooridnated by the local fire brigade. Members are asked to check their rostered commitments for Folky time by logging into ClubRunner and clicking on My Commitments. Alternatively, your commitments are added to the e-Bulletin sent out to members. As Folk Festival time is such a busy time then please don't let the coordinator down such that they have to chase you on the day. Check your commitments in advance! |
|||||||
Working Bee at Pea Soup
The Rotary Club held a working bee on Friday 1st March to remove weeds around the car park at Pea Soup Beach. Rotarians Bernie Waixel, Reg Beattie and Harry Bracegirdle were assisted by Ken Eldridge and Moyne Shire representative, Richard Hodgens. |
|||||||
March is Rotary Literacy Month
As March is designated as Rotary Literacy Month it is timely that the Rotary Club will again donate books to the program run by the Maternal Health Care unit at the Moyne Shire Community Centre. The books are given out to new born babies by the Centre. This program has been coordinated in the past by Wilma Preston but will now be run by Diana Bracegirdle. In addition, the Club has recently donated $100 toward book for the Community Centre for their day care facility. |
|||||||
Keeping in touch!
Are we losing the art of communication? I know that email is a popular form of communication and, as a promoter of ClubRunner I naturally support and use email for communication, but ... "Does the following cartoon sum up many modern households?" (Editor)
PS. Not to be interpreted as being any reflection on the Editor's household - we don't have phones next to the bed!!
|
|||||||
Club holds successful Trivia Night
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held a very successful Trivia Night at the Star of the West Hotel on Monday 25th February 2013. The event was attended by over 90 people from a variety of groups and raised ~$770 for the Club. |
|||||||
Visit of the Rotary Recreational Vehicles Fellowship
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy held a joint meeting on 14th February 2013 with the Rotary Recreational Vehicles Fellowship who were visiting Port Fairy in the week commencing 11th February. The local club also put on a BBQ for the visitors at the Big-4 Caravan Park on Saturday 16th February. |
|||||||
Rotary Meetings resume 4th February
A reminder to all Port Fairy Rotarians that our regular Dinner Meetings will resume on Monday 4th February. |
|||||||
Peace Concert (7th March)/RotaryTheme2012-13.jpg)
This year in answer to the challenge by Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka, the four Rotary Clubs of Warrnambool plus Port Fairy are organizing a Peace Concert to publicise our Rotary year of Peace Through Service. |
|||||||
President's Report for January 2013
Hello Rotarians The holiday period is coming to an end and our Rotary meetings are about to resume. I hope you all had a great holiday period with family and friends. |
|||||||
Results of Painting Raffle
Rotary's annual "painting raffle" concluded on Saturday 26th January resulting in just over $1,000 profit for the Club. |
|||||||
Change to meal prices for Rotary meetings in 2013
Following from discussions held at last year's Club Assembly and a subsequent meeting with the manager of the Star of the West Hotel, Damian Gleeson, new prices for meals at dinner meetings in 2013 have been set. |
|||||||
Semi-Annual Dues
Port Fairy Rotarians are reminded that their semi-annual dues for 2012-13 are now due. Invoices for the 2nd half-yearly dues of $75 have been sent out by email to those that didn't pay the full, annual amount in the latter half of 2012. |
|||||||
Rotary teams at the Port Fairy Corporate Bowls competition
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has entered two teams (Rotary Gold and Rotary Blue) in the six-week long "Corporate Bowls" competition being hosted by the Port Fairy Bowls Club. |
|||||||
Recent working bees
Rotarians were busy on Friday 7th December helping to tidy up the town. Rotarians Adrian Crosier, Gordon Harman, Kevin Matthews (pictured) and Harry Bracegirdle did their bit to help keep Port Fairy tidy by first weeding around the trees that the Club planted last year along the golf club road. |
|||||||
President's Report December 2012
Rotarians and friends Our Christmas New Year break is upon us, with only our BBQ at the Cricket Club to complete the year. I look forward to catching up with as many Rotarians and friends at he BBQ in 10th December. |
|||||||
Guest Speaker Sue Williams "Restructuring Sri Lanka and the Maldives after the 2004 tsunami"
At its Dinner meeting on 3rd December 2012, Rotarian, John Clue, introduced guest speaker, Sue Williams, who was part of a Victorian Government team that assisted in Sri Lanka and the Maldives after the devastating tsunami that struck the region in December 2004. |
|||||||
Pride of Workmanship Award presented to Moyne Gazette reporter
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy presented a “Pride of Workmanship Award” to Moyne Gazette reporter, Anthony Brady, at its Dinner Meeting held at the Star of the West Hotel on Monday evening, 3rd December 2012.
|
|||||||
Handy Hints from Sheds Online
AMSA, the Australian Men's Shed Association, has links with Sheds Online. This is a very informative site not just for those involved with Men's Sheds but has many helpful hints. See http://www.theshedonline.org.au/activities/handyman-diy for some handy hints. |
|||||||
Moyne Health CEO addresses the Rotary Club
The CEO of Moyne Health Services, David Lee, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner Meeting on 19th November 2012. David provided an overview of the Moyne Health Services "Master Plan Development" covering the proposed development of the local hospital and residential care services in Port Fairy. |
|||||||
For a laugh! |
|||||||
President's Report November 2012
Another month through my year. Isn’t the year flying? In October we highlighted Vocational Service Month. During the month we had talks from Michael Crowe, John Ellard and Jeff McLean on their various work experiences. |
|||||||
Fashion Parade
The Annual Rotary Club of Port Fairy Fashion Parade will be held on Wednesday 14th November starting at 7.30 pm at the Port Fairy Golf Club. Download Flyer |
|||||||
Rotary helps make the Port Fairy Show a great success
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy traditionally mans the gate at the Port Fairy Show and this year a small team of Rotary volunteers helped make the Show the best yet. |
|||||||
Moyneyana House - Chicken Run
Rotarians have recently completed the installation of a Chicken Run at Moyneyana House which is the " hostel" or "low care accommodation" attached to Moyne Health Services .
|
|||||||
Chiropractor, Dr. Kane Walker talks at Rotary meeting
Dr. Kane Walker, a chiropractor whose practice is in Warrnambool, addressed the Rotary Dinner meeting on 29th Ocober |
|||||||
"Smokey" Dawson guest speaker at the Rotary Club
Renowned media commentator, Graham (Smokey) Dawson, who has spent 40 years in sports broadcasting in Australia and overseas, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Port Fairy's Dinner meeting on 8th October.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club secures grant funding
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has been awarded a grant under the District 9780's Club Strengthening Grant program. A total of $635 has been awarded towards the cost of a new, portable PA system to be used at Rotary meetings and outside functions.
In addition, the Club also received notification from the Moyne Shire Council of a Community Assistance Fund grant of $1,500 awarded for gardening equipment. |
|||||||
President's Report September 2012
Greetings Rotarians Our New Generations Month is coming to a close. We were fortunate to have our nomination of Emily Crowe for the National Youth Science Forum accepted and we look forward to Emily expanding her horizons following her attendance at the forum. I would like members to keep in mind the RYLA and RYPEN activities which happen next year and try and nominate some young people from our area to take part in these activities. |
|||||||
Pauline Stewart talks about ClubRunner
Pauline Stewart, the Web Administrator for Rotary District 9780, was the special guest speaker at the Port Fairy Rotary Club's Dinner on 24th September. She spoke about the benefits of clubs using the ClubRunner system as both a website and club administration tool for all Rotary Clubs.
|
|||||||
Guest speaker Kelly Foran from the Friendly Faces - Helping Hands Foundation
Rotarian, John Clue, introduced our Guest Speaker, Kelly Foran from theFriendly Faces – Helping Hands Foundation to the Dinner meeting of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy held on 17th September.
The meeting was attended by local Rotarians and 15 other guests - many from the Rotary Recreational Vehicles Fellowship (Murray Goulburn zone) that were visiting Port Fairy. |
|||||||
Emily Crowe to be sponsored by Rotary Club to National Youth Science Forum
Brauer College Year 11 student, Emily Crowe, has been sponsored by the Rotary Club of Port Fairy to attend the national Youth Science Forum in Perth next February.
Read more about Emily from the article in the Moyne Gazette 20th September 2012 |
|||||||
6 Handy Hints
Not all that comes into your Inbox is junk! Here is an extract from one sent to me recently that has some handy, everyday hints.
Now why didn't I think of that!! |
|||||||
President's Report - August 2012
Time is rushing by. Membership Month is coming to an end. We were fortunate to have inducted Michael Crowe into our Club during August. We welcome Michael and Michele to our Club. I hope that they both enjoy the Rotary experience.
|
|||||||
Joke of the Month
Mick, from Dublin, appeared on “Who Wants’ to be a Millionaire?” & towards the end of the program, had already won $500,000.
|
|||||||
Kim Freeman from Aspire is guest speaker at Rotary Club meeting
Kim Freeman addressed the Rotary Club of Port Fairy’s dinner meeting about his work on mental health programs that are delivered by Aspire, an organisation that started in Warrnambool in 1989. Aspire - A Pathway to Mental Health Inc. is a non-government, community based agency which provides non-clinical services in the mental health sector in Southwest Victoria and across Tasmania. |
|||||||
Weeding & Planting project at Pea Soup Beach
The Rotary Club provided valuable assistance to the Moyne Shire Council by way of a working bee to weed and plant at the Pea Soup Beach car park on 16th August.
|
|||||||
Rule of "85" |
|||||||
New school Principal is guest speaker at Rotary Dinner Meeting
Monday 6th August was a big night for the Rotary Club of Port Fairy when it inducted its newest member, Michael Crowe at its Dinner Meeting at the Star of the West Hotel. (see story) The evening was also marked by an inspirational talk delivered by guest speakers, Mark Chapman, the Principal of the Port Fairy Consolidated School, assisted by senior teacher, Debbie Dowell who is part of the School’s leadership team. |
|||||||
Port Fairy Rotary Club welcomes new member Michael Crowe
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy welcomed a new member on 6th August when Michael Crowe was inducted into the Club by President, Margaret Whitehead.
|
|||||||
Rotary Club secures funding from Pacific Hydro
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has secured funding from local wind farm operator, Pacific Hydro under the Sustainable Communities Fund Grants for 2012.
Funding of $4,000 has been provided to help furnish a room at the soon to be built Rotary House in Warrnambool. |
|||||||
Rotary helps out on National Tree Day
Members of the Rotary Club of Port assisted other community members on tree planting duties on National Tree Day on 29th July. |
|||||||
Member records in ClubRunner
In reviewing members records in ClubRunner, it was noted that about five members, although having their birthday recorded (day and month) , they did not have their year of birth recorded.
The omission of birth years means that their year of birth more often than not reverts to either 2011 or 2012 which means that they all are recorded as 1 year old or less. This is affecting the age profile of the Club and recent reports incorrectly show that we have 22% of our membership under the age of 35! It would be beneficial if all members were to login to ClubRunner and edit their personal profile and check their recorded birth date and year. |
|||||||
President's Report - July 2012
Greetings to everyone as we start our new Rotary year. I must firstly thank John Ellard and his team for guiding us successfully through the 2011/12 year. Our Club membership grew to 34 and we had a great fund raising year with the Police Golf Day as a highlight. |
|||||||
Top 10 DIY Miracles You Can Accomplish With A Binder Clip
I came across a useful article on the LifeHacker website recently...
See Top 10 DIY Miracles You Can Accomplish With A Binder Clip Can you think of anymore?? |
|||||||
Creating a Positive and Passionate Culture
Most members are now aware that service provider, ClubRunner, underpins our Club website and online Club administration module. ClubRunner is the leading provider of online Rotary club administration and communications software and is now an official Rotary International Licensee.
As part of their support services a recent communique had an interesting article called Creating a Positive and Passionate Culture which has has relevance to our Club as much as any other club or association in the world. The article is well worth a read. Go to Creating a positive culture . |
|||||||
Joke of the Month
A In order to inject some light-hearted content into our Bulletin, it is worth publishing the occasional joke. Contributions from other Club members will be welcome. Read More for this month's joke. |
|||||||
Port Fairy funds goes to the support of RAM Adopt a Village Scheme
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy recently donated $300 to RAM (Rotary Against Malaria) and in so doing joined the Adopt a Village Scheme whereby our funds are targeted to assist Meitha [Kapari] in the Abau District of the Central Province of Papua New Guinea.
|
|||||||
Recognition for Rotary at Charles Mills Reserve
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has held a close affinity with the Charles Mills Reserve on the eastern side of the Moyne River in Port Fairy.
|
|||||||
Port Fairy Rotary Club mourns the loss of PP Julie Suter
It is with sadness and regret that the Rotary Club of Port Fairy learned of the passing of Past President Julie Suter on 4th July 2012 after a long illness. Julie, who served as President of the Club in 2008/09, was the second female to be installed as a President of the Club since its charter in 1961.
|
|||||||
Bowel Scan update
The Rotary Club of Port Fairy has concluded its annual effort to promote the Rotary Bowelscan Project in the community. This year, with the assistance of McLean's Pharmacy in Port Fairy, some 117 Bowelscan kits were sold which is on par with past year's total of 122.
|
|||||||
What multi-tasking does to our brains
Here is an interesting article I found about the pitfalls of multi-tasking and the detrimental effect it can have on overall efficiency.
As a person who, partly through necessity (i.e. wearing too many hats!) is constantly multi-tasking I can avow to the fact that it does lead to inefficiencies and errors. The challenge for me is - "Can I break the habit?" Read more at... What multi-tasking does to our brains Footnote: The ultimate challenge to those Rotarian golfers is the trying to perform/remember the 500 things you have to do to master a perfect golf swing! A classic case of multi-tasking to prove that we will never fully master golf! |
|||||||
New District Governor - Helen Trigg
President, Margaret Whitehead and Secretary, Harry Bracegirdle, travelled to Geelong last Sunday to be present at the Changeover of District Governor from Brian Trenery to our new DG - Helen Trigg.
|
|||||||
Margaret Whitehead installed as new President
At the Changeover Dinner held 25th June Margaret Whitehead was installed as the new President of the Rotary Club of Port Fairy when the baton for running the Club was passed over from out-going President, John Ellard. While this is Margaret's first term as President, having joined the Club some three years ago, she brings to the job a great deal of experience in serving many community organisations during a lifetime in Port Fairy.
|
|||||||
A worthy quote
I came across this quote on a website today that is worth sharing...
“Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.” |
|||||||
President's report for June 2012
Hello Fellow Members, My year as President is fast coming to an end. It seems only yesterday that we had the change over dinner and now we are ready for Margaret’s year. |
|||||||
|
|
