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Guest Speakers - David and Tippy An overview of their very recent trip to Thailand, which included a special AN-ZAC Day ceremony at Hellfire Pass, in the Kanchanaburi Province in Thailand.
David has attended many ANZAC Day ceremonies, local, interstate and international, and this year, Hellfire Pass was another memorable ceremony.
Having flown into Bangkok, then driving northwest to Kanchanaburi, David and Tippy met old Rotary friends and joined the Songkran party (Thai New Year, New Life) hosted by the RC of Kanchanaburi. They took time to visit the war cemetery, where over 3,000 Australians were buried, walk the Bridge over the River Kwai, and spend time at the war memorial/museum, before driving a further 70 kilometres to Hellfire Pass.
Hellfire Pass was the deepest and longest cutting along the entire length of 415 kilometre Burma-Thailand “Death” railway, which was built by allied Prisoners of war. It symbolises the suffering of Australian and NZ prisoners of war during WW2. Two significant Australians, Weary Dunlop and Tom Uren were among the POWs.
A large crowd gathered for the ceremony, which featured the cutting lit up with lanterns, which was very moving during the Minute Silence. This was followed by a Gunfire Breakfast.
Tippy read a poem to conclude their talk.
PS: David was surprised to see a team of AFL Thai footballers in attendance.
Thank you David and Tippy.
David has attended many ANZAC Day ceremonies, local, interstate and international, and this year, Hellfire Pass was another memorable ceremony.Having flown into Bangkok, then driving northwest to Kanchanaburi, David and Tippy met old Rotary friends and joined the Songkran party (Thai New Year, New Life) hosted by the RC of Kanchanaburi. They took time to visit the war cemetery, where over 3,000 Australians were buried, walk the Bridge over the River Kwai, and spend time at the war memorial/museum, before driving a further 70 kilometres to Hellfire Pass.
Hellfire Pass was the deepest and longest cutting along the entire length of 415 kilometre Burma-Thailand “Death” railway, which was built by allied Prisoners of war. It symbolises the suffering of Australian and NZ prisoners of war during WW2. Two significant Australians, Weary Dunlop and Tom Uren were among the POWs.
A large crowd gathered for the ceremony, which featured the cutting lit up with lanterns, which was very moving during the Minute Silence. This was followed by a Gunfire Breakfast.
Tippy read a poem to conclude their talk.
PS: David was surprised to see a team of AFL Thai footballers in attendance.
Thank you David and Tippy.
As David & Tippy will be travelling to Taiwan for the Rotary International Conven-tion, and on to Thailand, returning in July, David took the opportunity to sincerely thank Darryl for his leadership over the past 12 months, particularly post fires. Also, goodbye to Cucky.
Chairperson—Julie Lynch
Julie took the opportunity to give an update on Cycle Dindi, saying it is currently on hold, as rail trail is closed due to damage to infrastructure caused by the fires. A previous participant, who is looking forward to riding again, organised a charity ride in her district, from Koonwarra to Fish Creek, raising $650.00 which was donated to our fire funds. Julie also thanked Kyla Dowling for her
Julie took the opportunity to give an update on Cycle Dindi, saying it is currently on hold, as rail trail is closed due to damage to infrastructure caused by the fires. A previous participant, who is looking forward to riding again, organised a charity ride in her district, from Koonwarra to Fish Creek, raising $650.00 which was donated to our fire funds. Julie also thanked Kyla Dowling for her support to Cycle Dindi, having raised a substantial amount towards our Youth pro-grams by sponsored rides. Thank you Kyla!
Secretary Glenda:
• Board agreed to a payment of $400 from Fire Relief Funds, to support the illustration of a children's book about the Ruffy Fire Tanker.
• Letter of support to go to Yea Historical Society, supporting their grant application to fund a photocopier.
• Changeover program is coming together, please indicate and pay if you intend to come by 15 June.
• The power of social media and youth—following on from our footy night, an article and picture of Abbie was put up on our Facebook site and has attracted more viewings than any other article we have published!
• RC of Kinglake Ranges is holding a youth forum on Tuesday 10 June.
• Board agreed to a payment of $400 from Fire Relief Funds, to support the illustration of a children's book about the Ruffy Fire Tanker.
• Letter of support to go to Yea Historical Society, supporting their grant application to fund a photocopier.
• Changeover program is coming together, please indicate and pay if you intend to come by 15 June.
• The power of social media and youth—following on from our footy night, an article and picture of Abbie was put up on our Facebook site and has attracted more viewings than any other article we have published!
• RC of Kinglake Ranges is holding a youth forum on Tuesday 10 June.
Thank you to Yea & District Riding Club for another delicious meal tonight.
Guest Speaker - Abbie Christie from the Yea Football Netball Club.
Abbie is a local girl through and through! Her grandparents, on both mother and fathers side are local farming families—Gerard and Helen Hauser and Alan and Glenys Christie. Abbie has grown up and was educated in Yea and is now working as personal trainer and assistant at Progression Physiotherapy Yea, working with Jess Kennedy, and is preparing to commence an Allied Health certificate to further advance her skills.Saturdays are busy for Abbie, not only is she vice-captain of the Yea Tigers Women’s football team, but she also plays a full game of netball. She commenced playing football in 2025, and this year the team so far are undefeated. Her passion for the game is infectious. She can see the skill levels have developed over the 18 months under coach Jess Kennedy. There are 35 players on the playing list, aged from 46 down to 14! This week, whilst the men play Yarra Glen at Yea, the girls play Gembrook at Yea. Yea plays in the Outer East League, which includes teams from Alexandra to down south as far as Pakenham, with 3 footballs teams and 4 netball teams fielded each week.
Vote of thanks—Kristie Luckman.
3 Minute Speaker—Kristie Luckman
Kristie spoke of the arrival of her family, the Luckman clan, to the Spring Creek/Fawcett valley in 1860, when her great, great, great uncle established the farm, which was then passed down to her grandfather in the 1940’s. The area, originally known as the Durham Valley, was initially settled for quartz and gold mining and featured a hall, school (opened in 1872) and a racecourse. Sadly, the family home and some of the original buildings were lost in the 2026 fires.
Chairperson—David Anderson
Great to see so many with their footy colours! David did a roll call of the AFL league ladder, from top team down. Interesting, judging from the noise made as teams were called out, that members are still supporting the original VFL teams rather than em-bracing the interstate teams.
Great to see so many with their footy colours! David did a roll call of the AFL league ladder, from top team down. Interesting, judging from the noise made as teams were called out, that members are still supporting the original VFL teams rather than em-bracing the interstate teams.
Congratulations to John and Clare Sinclair, who are celebrating their 63rd wedding anniversary today!
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THROW BACK THURSDAY - Four Fathers, Terry Hubbard, John Handsaker, Russell Hogg and Charles Rattray, together with music scholarship winner. | Thanks to tonight's caterers—Yea & District Memorial Hospital Auxiliary—for a really enjoyable meal. |
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President Darryl-
• Amenities Trailer, currently at Highlands Hall, is to be relocated to Ruffy Hub for fire victim use.
• Water tank project—currently 73 x 10,000lt tanks are in the process of installation, delivery or on order!
• Thanks to DG Emma for a further grants from RAWC for $20,000 available in $500 vouchers for fire victims in need, These are distributed through the Fire Recovery centre,
• A meeting was held to consider the nominations for changeover awards—Darryl, Penny and Ann.
• Les Hall thanked organising committee for 40th Anniversary Dinner, and in particular, the Legends Awards!
• Water tank project—currently 73 x 10,000lt tanks are in the process of installation, delivery or on order!
• Thanks to DG Emma for a further grants from RAWC for $20,000 available in $500 vouchers for fire victims in need, These are distributed through the Fire Recovery centre,
• A meeting was held to consider the nominations for changeover awards—Darryl, Penny and Ann.
• Les Hall thanked organising committee for 40th Anniversary Dinner, and in particular, the Legends Awards!
Secretary Glenda -
• Annual Report is well under way, thanks to those directors who have submitted their reports so far.
• Request received from Bernadette Murphy, a childrens book writer who has written a book about the Ruffy Fire Tanker, to fund an illustrator so the book can be finished and distributed to local schools and Ruffy citizens. Approx cost $400
• Changeover season—RC of Alexandra. Wednesday 17 June; RC of Belvoir, Wodonga, 4 July; RC of Kinglake Ranges, 4 July; RC of Seymour, 28 June at Seymour Bowls Club.
• Request from District Secretary for donations to District Disasster Fund, and Mental Health programs.
• Email from Sharon Fox, on behalf of Yarck Hall Community Relief Centre, thanking Rotary for their support and meal, and a re-quest to return anytime!
• Request received from Bernadette Murphy, a childrens book writer who has written a book about the Ruffy Fire Tanker, to fund an illustrator so the book can be finished and distributed to local schools and Ruffy citizens. Approx cost $400
• Changeover season—RC of Alexandra. Wednesday 17 June; RC of Belvoir, Wodonga, 4 July; RC of Kinglake Ranges, 4 July; RC of Seymour, 28 June at Seymour Bowls Club.
• Request from District Secretary for donations to District Disasster Fund, and Mental Health programs.
• Email from Sharon Fox, on behalf of Yarck Hall Community Relief Centre, thanking Rotary for their support and meal, and a re-quest to return anytime!
Chairperson—David Anderson
Being a history teacher, David is the instigator of “Throw Back Thursdays”, with previous bulletin showing a photograph of Exchange Student, Emi-ly McGuire from America.
Another historic fact—12 years ago this week, the RC of Yea hosted an RFE group from Thailand (and the rest is history!!)
Thanks to Ian Lynch for the power point photos, a compilation of smiling faces from the 40th Anniversary Dinner, and also video clips from some of our former exchange students, each reflecting of their 12 months in Yea and where they are now. Laura from France, Fabio from Switzerland, Haru from Japan and Caroline from Germany.
Disbursements—Treasurer Gary
Gary reminded us that funds as shown in the proposed disbursement list, as circulated, has been severely reduced by the cancellation of the Art Show and Cycle Dindi due to the January fires.
Gary reminded us that funds as shown in the proposed disbursement list, as circulated, has been severely reduced by the cancellation of the Art Show and Cycle Dindi due to the January fires.
Epic Day of Service—Penny Paxman
Penny, along with 8 Rotarians from Yea, coordinat-ed a meal for the fire victims in the Yarck area. 38 locals came along to the Yarck Hall, where they were served a BBQ (thanks Darryl) and desserts made by the Yea Rotarians. The locals really appre-ciated the hospitality and opportunity to come to-gether with the burden of supplying their own meals. A Certificate of Appreciation was presented by Yarck coordinator, Sharon Fox, to thank RC of Yea.
Penny, along with 8 Rotarians from Yea, coordinat-ed a meal for the fire victims in the Yarck area. 38 locals came along to the Yarck Hall, where they were served a BBQ (thanks Darryl) and desserts made by the Yea Rotarians. The locals really appre-ciated the hospitality and opportunity to come to-gether with the burden of supplying their own meals. A Certificate of Appreciation was presented by Yarck coordinator, Sharon Fox, to thank RC of Yea.
TRIVIA QUIZ: Tony
Quizmaster Tony had a selection of challenging quiz questions, which really had us all scratching our heads, -particularly trying to name the ALF player who has won the Brownlow Medal 5 times!
A lot of whispering and laughter was heard across the room. Thanks Tony!
Quizmaster Tony had a selection of challenging quiz questions, which really had us all scratching our heads, -particularly trying to name the ALF player who has won the Brownlow Medal 5 times!
A lot of whispering and laughter was heard across the room. Thanks Tony!
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Congratulations to winning group—Jill, Chris, Paul, Michael and Sam. | Thanks to our caterers tonight for the delicious pork roast, - Deb Baynes team —Di Fletcher, Alanah Fletcher and Loretta Trim |
THROWBACK THURSDAY | |
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Ruth Konig, the inspiration behind our first Rotary Foundation Global Grant with students at Dayspring Children’s Village, South Africa. | Footy Colours Night, with John & Jeannie Handsaker, John Bett and Bruce Elliot. |
President Darryl:
• Welcome to Andrew, our returnee outbound student, who spent a wonderful 12 months in Germany.• Welcome to our new PA System, which will keep us toe tapping to the disco lights. Thanks to Country Tech, Alexandra (and coming soon to Yea)!
• White ant problem in ladies toilet area at Golf Club has been fixed, though still a tripping hazard on the floor.
(Photo - Tony and Darryl)
• The Fire Relief Water Tank Project is well under way, as reported by Hennie. 43 delivered so far and a further 33 on order.
• We have $20,000 of $500 Vouchers available for fire victims, which are being distributed by Fire Recovery staff. A further allocation will be available once these are acquitted, thanks to DG Emma’s funding. Thanks to Donna and Kim from the Fire Recovery Team for their assistance.
• Monday, 18 May, will be our Epic Day of Service, a Rotary International project, with a BBQ meal at Yarck Hall for fire victims.
• We have $20,000 of $500 Vouchers available for fire victims, which are being distributed by Fire Recovery staff. A further allocation will be available once these are acquitted, thanks to DG Emma’s funding. Thanks to Donna and Kim from the Fire Recovery Team for their assistance.
• Monday, 18 May, will be our Epic Day of Service, a Rotary International project, with a BBQ meal at Yarck Hall for fire victims.
Tony Jacobs - 3 Minute Speaker - Having recently been to Vietnam for his charity Blue Dragon, he had a stopover in Hong Kong, where he has lived for 12 years. During this stopover he has the inconvenience of losing his mobile phone, leaving it on a table at a café. This caused many inconveniences, as all his tickets to events such as the races and rugby were in stored on his phone, along with flight tickets and banking, very inconvenient!
Sue Carpenter gave an impromptu talk, having attended a function for a Highlands fire victim. Bernie Moss, an active member in the Highlands community who lost everything in the fires, was the winner of the Stawell Gift in 1973. Consequently, his medal and associated memorabilia were lost. The President of the Stawell Athletics Club presented Bernie with a new medal and sash, along with a recording of his momentous race.
PP Penny Paxman, in her role as Rotary Community Leader and a member of District 9790 Membership Committee, challenged us by asking several leading questions such as “Do we have enough members”.
Yea, like many other Rotary Clubs in the District, is always looking for ways to attract new members and increase our numbers.
Incoming DG is offering a financial incentive to clubs for each new member, and District encourages a range of activi-ties to promote Rotary, such as social media, Printed Media, Projects, Brochures, Visibility (wear the brand, ie badge, clothing), Follow up enquiries quickly. RC of Yea is planning a Dinner, with members inviting guests.
Yea, like many other Rotary Clubs in the District, is always looking for ways to attract new members and increase our numbers.
Incoming DG is offering a financial incentive to clubs for each new member, and District encourages a range of activi-ties to promote Rotary, such as social media, Printed Media, Projects, Brochures, Visibility (wear the brand, ie badge, clothing), Follow up enquiries quickly. RC of Yea is planning a Dinner, with members inviting guests.
Returning Outbound Exchange
Student, Andrew Foster, who spent 12 months in Hannover, Germany, presented the banner from his host club.
Andrew reflected on the wonderful, life changing experience the exchange offered, and is forever grateful to the RC of Yea for facilitating the exchange and he looks forward to giving back to the club in the future.
Student, Andrew Foster, who spent 12 months in Hannover, Germany, presented the banner from his host club.
Andrew reflected on the wonderful, life changing experience the exchange offered, and is forever grateful to the RC of Yea for facilitating the exchange and he looks forward to giving back to the club in the future.
 Andrew and President Darryl | Throwback Thursday  Exchange student from Missouri, USA, Emily McGuire (2007-08) |
 Thankyou Kerry and Nicole, with fabulous assistance from Lucas and Sharni, for another delicious meal! | |
Guest Speaker - Andrew Embling
Andrew, born in Alexandr, now residing in Yarck, is a stock & station agent, member of the Truck & Ute Committee, and has been a major force in the welfare and adjustment of stock and the distribution of fodder after the fires.
Andrew noted the contribution of RC of Yea to the Mouth Mapping Program and was at the launch, along with many Rotarians. He explained how the mobile health van was funded, through sponsors and supports of the Truck & Ute Show, together with the generous donation from Gerry Ryan of Jayco. The van is a wonderful asset to the Murrindindi Community and has been used constantly by the health workers, both medical and mental health, to support the fire victims after the Longwood Fires which impacted so much of the Murrindindi Shire.
Andrew has played a role in coordinating the movement of stock from the fire affected areas to suitable adjustment farms outside the region, along with the distribution of stock fodder donated through Need for Feed and other generous contributions.
He urged us to support the local traders, who have been severely affected during the prolonged fire period, and noted that the Murrindindi Shire have been very proactive in their support for community, with daily updates and staff made available to assist.
There will be an ongoing need to support victims for a long time, particularly in the mental health field.
Vote of Thanks—Tony Jacobs, who mentioned RAWCS support to Upper Goulburn Landcare Network fencing program.
Andrew, born in Alexandr, now residing in Yarck, is a stock & station agent, member of the Truck & Ute Committee, and has been a major force in the welfare and adjustment of stock and the distribution of fodder after the fires.Andrew noted the contribution of RC of Yea to the Mouth Mapping Program and was at the launch, along with many Rotarians. He explained how the mobile health van was funded, through sponsors and supports of the Truck & Ute Show, together with the generous donation from Gerry Ryan of Jayco. The van is a wonderful asset to the Murrindindi Community and has been used constantly by the health workers, both medical and mental health, to support the fire victims after the Longwood Fires which impacted so much of the Murrindindi Shire.
Andrew has played a role in coordinating the movement of stock from the fire affected areas to suitable adjustment farms outside the region, along with the distribution of stock fodder donated through Need for Feed and other generous contributions.
He urged us to support the local traders, who have been severely affected during the prolonged fire period, and noted that the Murrindindi Shire have been very proactive in their support for community, with daily updates and staff made available to assist.
There will be an ongoing need to support victims for a long time, particularly in the mental health field.
Vote of Thanks—Tony Jacobs, who mentioned RAWCS support to Upper Goulburn Landcare Network fencing program.
3 Minute Speaker, Marj Hamilton
Marj spoke of her recent visit to New Zealand, predominately the South Island, where travels incorporated many interests for Marj — forestry, farming and family connections. Her late mother-in-law was from New Zealand. This was her second visit to New Zealand, and Marj is still in awe of the magnificent scenery.
Marj spoke of her recent visit to New Zealand, predominately the South Island, where travels incorporated many interests for Marj — forestry, farming and family connections. Her late mother-in-law was from New Zealand. This was her second visit to New Zealand, and Marj is still in awe of the magnificent scenery.
President Darryl -
• Its been a busy week, and thanks to all for a great night to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Rotary Club of Yea. Thanks to the committee and all who helped with setup and clean up.
• Our tank replacement program, for those in need due to the fire, is well under way, with Hennie coordinating with RC of Alexandra to make it happen.
• Our exchange student Cucky, is off on her Central Australian Tour this weekend. We wish her a great time!
• As previously mentioned, we plan to meet fortnightly during the cold and foggy months of July and August. A list of dates is included so that you can mark them in your diary.
• Sunday we will support the Mother's Day Classic at the Railway Park with our BBQ.
• Our tank replacement program, for those in need due to the fire, is well under way, with Hennie coordinating with RC of Alexandra to make it happen.
• Our exchange student Cucky, is off on her Central Australian Tour this weekend. We wish her a great time!
• As previously mentioned, we plan to meet fortnightly during the cold and foggy months of July and August. A list of dates is included so that you can mark them in your diary.
• Sunday we will support the Mother's Day Classic at the Railway Park with our BBQ.
Secretary Glenda:
• Congratulations to President Darryl for the fun night we had to celebrate the 40th Anniversary,
• We have had many positive responses and comments on our social medial page, as well as great coverage in the Chronicle.
• Stock & Land featured a good write up of the Mouth Mapping launch.
• We have had many positive responses and comments on our social medial page, as well as great coverage in the Chronicle.
• Stock & Land featured a good write up of the Mouth Mapping launch.
Thanks to our caterers, Sacred Heart Primary School, led by Emma, Bec
and wonderful table servers, Olivia, Emily and Ferg.
40 years of service by the Rotary Club of Yea, 1 May 1986, was celebrated on Saturday night, with a dinner and fun bush dance at the Shire Hall in Yea. It was a great night, highlighting achievements and difference we have made to our local community and international projects. We had the company of guests including Cindy McLeish, MLA, District Governor Emma Davis and Mayor Damien Gallagher, Rotary colleagues from Kinglake Ranges, Southern Mitchell, Alexandra and Mansfield, along with some of our original Charter members to share the celebrations. We also had our first outbound youth exchange student, Gina Callander, along with our most recent outbound student Andrew Foster and our current inbound student, Cucky, from Chile, with us to celebrate the youth program which has been a highlight for RC of Yea.
David Anderson, as MC, introduced the speakers and kept us entertained with many Rotary facts, dates and points of interest. Hennie Lanting led the invocation, with President Darryl King welcoming all guests and spoke of Rotary in Yea.
We enjoyed a 2 course meal and then the generously filled hampers raffle were drawn, with 7 lucky winners, including 2 lucky door prizes. Blackberry Jam Band ensured we were all foot tapping and trying the bush dancing, with much laughter to be heard from those on the floor! And of course, we had the fabulous birthday cake, which was cut by charter member Daryl Callander, DG Emma Davis and President Darryl King.
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| President Darry | |
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DG Emma, Daryl Callander & President Darryl cutting the cake; | Cindy McLeish & David Anderson |
DG Emma Davis and President Darryl presented certificated to our club Legends
— John Sinclair, Les Hall, Rodney Ridd and Gary Fitzgerald
President Darryl
Welcomed all and noted that the scheduled guest speaker was an apology.
Business
DG Emma Davis has advised that $20,000 fire recovery funds have been received (RAWCS) and will be distributed via 40 $500 vouchers to fire impacted residents. Opportunity to promote Rotary’s role in securing and distributing the funds.
Strath Creek luncheon to hand over of Uniting Church equipment and tools to the Upper Goulburn Landcare group for bushfire recovery was very successful. Thank you to Jill and Hennie who assisted Darryl to cater for 60 guests.
Raffle to be conducted at the Club’s 40th birthday celebrations. Members asked to pass on contribution of hamper gourmet goods to Glenda
Nominations for the David Long Community Award and Paul Harris recognition to be received by Secretary Glenda by May 15th. Forms available from the Secretary.
Football/Netball gate roster circulated—again!
Ripple Effect notice boards are in the window at Nutrien Harcourt premises and are already drawing strong interest.
Ian Tobin will organise RC of Yea signage to be placed on the newly acquired supply trailer– thank you Ian.
Anzac Day BBQ planning well in hand. Thank you to Sam Wright for his assistance in cleaning and preparing BBQ equipment. Darryl will provide a wreath.
Secretary Glenda Woods:
86 acceptances already for 40th birthday celebration Members who haven't yet
responded or paid, please do so asap.
Garden Expo flyer details have been forwarded to the printer in Kilmore Reports for inclusion in the 2026 Annual Report to be received by the Secretary by mid May.
Rotarians are invited to attend the Mouth Map launch—a partnership between the District Memorial Hospital and Yea Rotary— on Friday the 1st of May 11.30-12.00pm at the Yea Saleyards.
Three M
inuter: Peter Tull Peter spoke of a recent trip with Kerry to Texas on the NSW/Queensland border where they visited the Texas Rabbit Works, a refurbished and renovated museum highlighting the importance of the feral rabbit industry both in Texas and in Australia. Between 1930 and 1960 the Texas Rabbit Works were a major employer in the district, processing 600 rabbits a day and sustaining local families. The processing works turned the district’s rabbit problem into an opportunity! When the Tull property was first acquired by the family in 1962 it was infested with rabbits. Peter spent many hours after school ferreting and spotlighting rabbits – selling the rabbits to teachers at the High School and to the middle pub in Yea. It was quite a lucrative hobby for a young lad!
inuter: Peter Tull Peter spoke of a recent trip with Kerry to Texas on the NSW/Queensland border where they visited the Texas Rabbit Works, a refurbished and renovated museum highlighting the importance of the feral rabbit industry both in Texas and in Australia. Between 1930 and 1960 the Texas Rabbit Works were a major employer in the district, processing 600 rabbits a day and sustaining local families. The processing works turned the district’s rabbit problem into an opportunity! When the Tull property was first acquired by the family in 1962 it was infested with rabbits. Peter spent many hours after school ferreting and spotlighting rabbits – selling the rabbits to teachers at the High School and to the middle pub in Yea. It was quite a lucrative hobby for a young lad!Dickie Dashwood was presented with a replacement copy of his Rotary Club of Yea Certificate of Appreciation which he had received from Julie when she was President back in 2011. Dickie is still going strong, but the original certificate had faded over the years!
Our caterers,Kerry Tull and daughter Nicole and
grandchildren Lucas and Charlize for a beautiful meal.
Guest Speaker - Neil Beer
Neil was a Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Yea, PP and PFH, and is actively contributes to many local organisations, including CFA.
Along with cattle farming with his wife Jan since 1974, Neil has been involved in the motor car industry over the same peri-od. Neil reflected the current fuel crisis, and the evolution of Electric Vehicles. 1973 and 1976 saw fuel crisis, with rationing by odds and evens number plates, which also caused panic buying to down-size to smaller cars, just as now there is a rush to purchase electric vehicles. With Neil’s knowledge of the car industry, he suggested that swapping in this climate for an EV the cost of changeover is not substantiated.
During the 2025-26 period electric vehicles reflected 5% of vehicle sales in the Beer family business, but over the past 6 weeks, due to fuel crisis, the sale of electric/hybrid vehicles has jumped to 38%. China is producing most of the electric vehicles imported into Australia and distributing them quickly into dealerships,
There are still many issues to overcome such as charging points and increased tyre wear (due to vehicles being heavier because of the batteries), along with increased insurance
The uptake in heavy vehicles is restricted due to long charge times.
Vote of thanks—Gary Fitzgerald.
Neil was a Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Yea, PP and PFH, and is actively contributes to many local organisations, including CFA.Along with cattle farming with his wife Jan since 1974, Neil has been involved in the motor car industry over the same peri-od. Neil reflected the current fuel crisis, and the evolution of Electric Vehicles. 1973 and 1976 saw fuel crisis, with rationing by odds and evens number plates, which also caused panic buying to down-size to smaller cars, just as now there is a rush to purchase electric vehicles. With Neil’s knowledge of the car industry, he suggested that swapping in this climate for an EV the cost of changeover is not substantiated.
During the 2025-26 period electric vehicles reflected 5% of vehicle sales in the Beer family business, but over the past 6 weeks, due to fuel crisis, the sale of electric/hybrid vehicles has jumped to 38%. China is producing most of the electric vehicles imported into Australia and distributing them quickly into dealerships,
There are still many issues to overcome such as charging points and increased tyre wear (due to vehicles being heavier because of the batteries), along with increased insurance
The uptake in heavy vehicles is restricted due to long charge times.
Vote of thanks—Gary Fitzgerald.
3 Minute Speaker—Ian Lynch
Ian gave us a quick trip down memory lane, reminding us of how quickly we have come to rely on the technology of mobile phones, and how quickly they have developed to force us to rely on newer, bigger, better, sophistically advanced technology—at our expense!
Mobile phone technology commenced in 1973, with the Motorola “brick” weighing over 2 kg and re-leased commercially in 1983 for $4,000 US. Introduced into Australis in 1987 in a slightly slimmed down version, it had a battery life of 30 minutes talk time and took 10 hours to charge and could only be used for phone calls and had no data storage capacity. Phone technology evolved with phones becoming smaller and lighter. In the 1990’s 2G was re-leased; Early 2000’s 3G technology included cameras, music, colour screens, email access; in 2007 Apple iPhone introduced the “smart phone” with internet capabilities and touchscreens; the 2020’s ushered in 5G, with fast internet and AI and integration of wearable
Ian gave us a quick trip down memory lane, reminding us of how quickly we have come to rely on the technology of mobile phones, and how quickly they have developed to force us to rely on newer, bigger, better, sophistically advanced technology—at our expense!
Mobile phone technology commenced in 1973, with the Motorola “brick” weighing over 2 kg and re-leased commercially in 1983 for $4,000 US. Introduced into Australis in 1987 in a slightly slimmed down version, it had a battery life of 30 minutes talk time and took 10 hours to charge and could only be used for phone calls and had no data storage capacity. Phone technology evolved with phones becoming smaller and lighter. In the 1990’s 2G was re-leased; Early 2000’s 3G technology included cameras, music, colour screens, email access; in 2007 Apple iPhone introduced the “smart phone” with internet capabilities and touchscreens; the 2020’s ushered in 5G, with fast internet and AI and integration of wearable
Penny Paxman
Rotary Club of Seymour will host a combined clubs meeting on 3 August 2026, which will include a visit from District Governor. More details to follow. 
Monday 18 May, Rotary Club of Yea will supply dinner for the Yarck Hub, supporting fire affected families. It is planned to use the BBQ, with members required to as-sist with serving and providing desserts.
Rotary Club of Seymour will host a combined clubs meeting on 3 August 2026, which will include a visit from District Governor. More details to follow. 
Monday 18 May, Rotary Club of Yea will supply dinner for the Yarck Hub, supporting fire affected families. It is planned to use the BBQ, with members required to as-sist with serving and providing desserts.
Glenn Milliken– Open Gardens
Our open gardens program started in 2012, with 12 local gardens opened. In 2017 this was reduced to 10, in 2021 a further reduction to 8 and in 2025 we had 6 gardens open. It is increasingly becoming harder to find owners in our small community to open their gardens, particularly with the drought factor effecting gardens, along with additional expenses for extra upkeep and plantings that the owners bear.
Board has made the decision to hold open gardens every second year, so we are aiming to have 8 gardens open in 2027.
It has also been decided to include 2 spring gardens to open on the weekend of the Garden Expo, with an additional cost of $10 to view both gardens.
Thanks to Deb and Loretta for a lovely pork roast dinner!
Guest Speakers Dr Jenny Keast and Elizabeth Sinclair, CEO, Yea & District Memorial Hospital.
Dr Jen Keast, supported by Elizabeth Sinclair, took the opportunity to speak of the new, world first, oral cancer screening pro-gram, Mouth Mapping, which will be launched on the 1st May, 2026, 11.30 am at the sale yards.
This is an innovative digital health tool de-signed to improve access to oral cancer seeing for rural communities. This opportunity is made possible by the partnership with Rotary Club of Yea, Yea Hospital and the University of Melbourne.
Evaluation of the Mouth Mapping program will be done by La Trobe University.
MouthMap uses high quality medical photography to take detailed images of your mouth. These images are reviewed by specialist doctors, which report back to your local GP or Dentist.
Yea Rotary will assist with funds for the camera, chair, equipment and ongoing costs to deliver this project.
After the initial evaluation of the Yea program, the Mouth Mapping program will be launched internationally, namely London and Berlin.
The Saleyards Programs, which included mental health support, create opportunities for individuals to attend clinics without making appointments.
Vote of Thanks—Jill Heath
“Health on the Move, powered by Yea Hospital and Rotary Club of Yea!”
Dr Jen Keast, supported by Elizabeth Sinclair, took the opportunity to speak of the new, world first, oral cancer screening pro-gram, Mouth Mapping, which will be launched on the 1st May, 2026, 11.30 am at the sale yards.
This is an innovative digital health tool de-signed to improve access to oral cancer seeing for rural communities. This opportunity is made possible by the partnership with Rotary Club of Yea, Yea Hospital and the University of Melbourne.
Evaluation of the Mouth Mapping program will be done by La Trobe University.
MouthMap uses high quality medical photography to take detailed images of your mouth. These images are reviewed by specialist doctors, which report back to your local GP or Dentist.
Yea Rotary will assist with funds for the camera, chair, equipment and ongoing costs to deliver this project.
After the initial evaluation of the Yea program, the Mouth Mapping program will be launched internationally, namely London and Berlin.
The Saleyards Programs, which included mental health support, create opportunities for individuals to attend clinics without making appointments.
Vote of Thanks—Jill Heath
“Health on the Move, powered by Yea Hospital and Rotary Club of Yea!”
 |  |
| Dr Jenny Keast | Elizabeth Sinclair, |
Chairperson—Tony Jacobs
Prior to introducing our guest speakers tonight, Tony took the opportunity to explain that the proposed Rotary/Yea Hospital project to install a permanent facility at the saleyards for the Saleyards Health Program will not proceed due to complications with building permits and site installations.
The YDMH Saleyards Program will continue thanks to the availability of the Murrindindi Health Van which will be on site.
Prior to introducing our guest speakers tonight, Tony took the opportunity to explain that the proposed Rotary/Yea Hospital project to install a permanent facility at the saleyards for the Saleyards Health Program will not proceed due to complications with building permits and site installations.
The YDMH Saleyards Program will continue thanks to the availability of the Murrindindi Health Van which will be on site.
Club Assembly:
President Darryl -
The Rotary Clubs of Gippsland, who provided the amenities trailer now on site at the Highlands Hall, have held fundraisers and a sum of $3,000 is to be paid into our ‘fire Fund, along with the provision of a trade trailer full of chainsaws and fencing equipment, which will initially to to the UGLN for as long as needed.
A further $20,000 (40 x $500 vouchers) has been made available thanks to Emma and District.
Secretary Glenda -
• Still have Christmas Cakes for sale, $20
• 40th Anniversary Dinner is coming up fast. Please rsvp and pay as soon as possible so that we know our numbers.
• Football Gate Roster is being circulated.
• Last meeting for Yea Races this season is 18th April. Eoghan is organising the roster.
Club Services—Glenn
Glenn has been working on the speakers program for the next month -
Community Services—Sam
• Roster for Yea Football/Netball Club Gate home & away games circulated.
• ANZAC day BBQ and chairs at cenotaph.
Treasurer—Gary
Finances up to 30 March circulated via email.
Having missed our Art Show and Cycle Dindi events, funds are low. Disbursements will be limited.
International—Jill
$5,000 has been made available to the Share Project from the Goroka Funds to assist with shipping a container of medical equipment to Goroka Hospital.
Tony—UGLN Fencing Program.
RAWCS has reached out to offer funds to support fire victims. RC of Yea and Up-per Goulburn Landcare Network will enter into an agreement to enable funds to be accessed to support a coordinator of the fencing program.
President Darryl -
The Rotary Clubs of Gippsland, who provided the amenities trailer now on site at the Highlands Hall, have held fundraisers and a sum of $3,000 is to be paid into our ‘fire Fund, along with the provision of a trade trailer full of chainsaws and fencing equipment, which will initially to to the UGLN for as long as needed.
A further $20,000 (40 x $500 vouchers) has been made available thanks to Emma and District.
Secretary Glenda -
• Still have Christmas Cakes for sale, $20
• 40th Anniversary Dinner is coming up fast. Please rsvp and pay as soon as possible so that we know our numbers.
• Football Gate Roster is being circulated.
• Last meeting for Yea Races this season is 18th April. Eoghan is organising the roster.
Club Services—Glenn
Glenn has been working on the speakers program for the next month -
Community Services—Sam
• Roster for Yea Football/Netball Club Gate home & away games circulated.
• ANZAC day BBQ and chairs at cenotaph.
Treasurer—Gary
Finances up to 30 March circulated via email.
Having missed our Art Show and Cycle Dindi events, funds are low. Disbursements will be limited.
International—Jill
$5,000 has been made available to the Share Project from the Goroka Funds to assist with shipping a container of medical equipment to Goroka Hospital.
Tony—UGLN Fencing Program.
RAWCS has reached out to offer funds to support fire victims. RC of Yea and Up-per Goulburn Landcare Network will enter into an agreement to enable funds to be accessed to support a coordinator of the fencing program.
David Anderson receives award
It is with great pleasure that the Rotary Club of Yea congratulates our very own PDG David Anderson on receiving an award in recognition of his long standing commitment and passion to the Rotary Foundation, Rotary’s Charity that is responsible for doing such good in the world.
This is the extract from District 9790 month-ly newsletter:
“The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service recognises individual Rotarians who demonstrated outstanding service to our Foundation. Each year District 9790 nominates one member to honour their commitment, enthusiasm and passion for these ideals. On behalf of Rotary Foundation Trus-tees, District Governor Emma Davis awarded the award to our Regional Rotary Foundation Co-ordinator PDG David Anderson of Yea Rotary. We truly value and appreciate David’s enthusiastic service to the Foundation.
Congratulations on receiving this prestigious honour.”
We are all proud of you Ando! Keep up the great work that you do.
This is the extract from District 9790 month-ly newsletter:
“The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service recognises individual Rotarians who demonstrated outstanding service to our Foundation. Each year District 9790 nominates one member to honour their commitment, enthusiasm and passion for these ideals. On behalf of Rotary Foundation Trus-tees, District Governor Emma Davis awarded the award to our Regional Rotary Foundation Co-ordinator PDG David Anderson of Yea Rotary. We truly value and appreciate David’s enthusiastic service to the Foundation.
Congratulations on receiving this prestigious honour.”
We are all proud of you Ando! Keep up the great work that you do.
Service Above Self
Yea, VIC 3717
Australia