Last Week's Club Meeting 7th July 2026
President Gayle thanked all members for their support and outlined goals for the year ahead, strengthening fundraising and community service efforts, supporting district projects, and encouraging active participation from all members.
Fundraising was emphasized, with members encouraged to volunteer for events such as the Trivia Night, Kids Fun Run with Puffing Billy, The Gembrook Classic Car Show and Swap Meet, and other major fundraising activities.
The club will continue focusing on community service while supporting
District Governor Emma and District initiatives, particularly Domestic Violence Prevention and Mental Health Awareness.
Members are encouraged to contribute new ideas, embrace innovation, and help keep the club welcoming and active.
Everyone is encouraged to attend the upcoming District Conference in the Hunter Valley to learn, share ideas, and celebrate the club's achievements.
Gayle thanked members for their friendship, commitment, and service, expressing pride in the club's positive impact.
Past President/District Secretary Shalini discussed membership fees, payment options, and upcoming invoices
Gayle Thanking Kerith our concert pianist Mac presented with his Official Badge
Guest Speaker - MP Daniela Di Martino
Daniela shared reflections on the role of an MP, particularly the importance of listening to residents, supporting local concerns, and helping community groups connect with government. The conversation touched on a wide range of local issues, including energy reliability, housing affordability, Green Wedge protections, support for older residents, wildlife management, bushfire-related concerns, social cohesion, and the impact of media and social media.
One of the strongest messages from the evening was the value of respectful conversation, practical problem-solving, and working together for positive outcomes. Daniela warmly acknowledged the club’s contribution to the community and encouraged members to keep raising local issues through the appropriate channels. The meeting concluded with questions, discussion, sincere thanks, and a strong sense of appreciation for an engaging evening together.
People Who Sparkle
Name: Kirsty Bates
Years of Service: 1
Profession: Microbiologist
Q: What first inspired you to join our club?
A: Talking to Melinda and Anna at Book Club. I had wanted to get involved in the community and do some good but didn’t really know how. Melinda and Anna were talking about Rotary projects they were involved in, and I decided to come along and see what it was like.
Q: What is a personal Rotary highlight?
A: The Share the Dignity Bags. It was awesome to see the amazing teamwork and just get it done. Loved it.
Q: What Rotary project (current or new) would you most like to be involved in in the future?
A: I would like to get involved in more environmental projects like tree planting.
Q: What is the best thing about being a member of this club?
A: Hanging out with people, the weird crazy crew, it’s fun every week.
Q: What is a life philosophy or mantra that you live by?
A: Just have a bit of fun with it! I say that about anything that anyone is doing.
Q: If you could have any superpower, what would you choose and why?
A: Invisibility, as reading people’s minds would creep me out!
Q: What was your very first job?
A: I was a checkout chick at Woolworths.
Q: Who is your dream guest speaker, dead or alive?
A: David Attenborough.
Q: When you are not busy completing Rotary tasks, what do you like to do in your spare time?
A: I like Pilates, trying new food places with Ryan, getting outside and going on walks.
RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards)
Saturday afternoon the RLYA graduation was held at Phillip Island, and our District Governor Emma, Gloria, Marcus and Gayle all attend with Sebastien Nash sponsored by our club. Guests received a handwritten thank you note, the one pictured below was received by Gayle.
DG Emma, Our Rylarian Sebastien Nash and Youth Chair Gloria
