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Guest Speaker — Peter Weeks: ESM, OAM. Alexandra SES Unit Controller
2025 celebrated the 50th anniversary of State Emergency Service supporting the community in times of need, evolving from Civil Defence.The Alexandra unit was the third unit established in Victoria, of which there are now 155 active units. SES was originally established to respond to nuclear war. Now the highly trained volunteers can respond to floods, storms, earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides and steep angle rescues, working with all agencies and utilities across the Murrindindi, Mitchell, Mansfield and Strathbogie Shires.
Alexandra SES share facilities with the local CFA and are the custodians of a fleet of specialized equipment, of which the team of 30 volunteers are trained to use.
Equipment includes: 4wd truck, 2 x 4wd support vehicles, rigid hull jet rescue boat, high angle rescue cache, storm trail, along with communications equipment to support the volunteers while on jobs.
Peter had statistics for Alexandra SES support—290 call outs for 2022-2025, including storms, trees down, accidents, flooding, tornados.The SES relies on State funding of $25,000 annually, along with donations, to purchase and maintain their equipment.
Cycledindi - Julie Lynch
Julie invited Kyla to let us know how much was raised for her sponsored Cycle Dindi Ride.
Kyla, with mum Kristie, announced that so far she has raised $1,705.00 with more payments still to come in. Kyla rode over 74 kilometres (Yea to Alexandra and return).
Well done Kyla, that’s a fabulous achievement!
Julie gave a Cycle Dindi update, now that most payments have been made, we have raised over $9,000 (without Kyla’s sponsorship money) to go towards our targeted youth projects. Being a joint venture with RC of Alexandra, these funds will be shared.
Julie invited Kyla to let us know how much was raised for her sponsored Cycle Dindi Ride.Kyla, with mum Kristie, announced that so far she has raised $1,705.00 with more payments still to come in. Kyla rode over 74 kilometres (Yea to Alexandra and return).
Well done Kyla, that’s a fabulous achievement!
Julie gave a Cycle Dindi update, now that most payments have been made, we have raised over $9,000 (without Kyla’s sponsorship money) to go towards our targeted youth projects. Being a joint venture with RC of Alexandra, these funds will be shared.
Thank you to Sacred Heart Primary School, led by Emma, for cater-ng tonight, another delicious meal.
The girls did a fabulous job serving and looked very smart in their uniforms, even though it was holiday time!!
The girls did a fabulous job serving and looked very smart in their uniforms, even though it was holiday time!!
Guest Speaker, Bernie Bott, PDG, Vice President of Australian Rotary Health.
Bernie spoke with passion on Australian Rotary Health, which was founded in 1981 by RC of Mornington raising funds to assist research into SIDS. Over $2mill was raised, and since then over $50 mill has been raised by clubs to support medical research and scholarships, with much focus now being on mental health, with youth mental health largely the current focus.
It offers scholarships to indigenous students undertaking health studies, currently up to 80 available to the value of $2,500 payable for each year required to complete the course.
Bernie thanked RC of Yea for their financial support and urged the club to continue to see Australian Rotary Health as a priority.
Vote of Thanks—Will De Castella.
Bernie spoke with passion on Australian Rotary Health, which was founded in 1981 by RC of Mornington raising funds to assist research into SIDS. Over $2mill was raised, and since then over $50 mill has been raised by clubs to support medical research and scholarships, with much focus now being on mental health, with youth mental health largely the current focus.It offers scholarships to indigenous students undertaking health studies, currently up to 80 available to the value of $2,500 payable for each year required to complete the course.
Bernie thanked RC of Yea for their financial support and urged the club to continue to see Australian Rotary Health as a priority.
Vote of Thanks—Will De Castella.
Cycle Dindi—Julie Lynch
Julie gave a quick wrap of another very successful Cycle Dindi, held last Saturday in perfect bike riding weather. There were 183 riders, the highest number so are! The trail was in top condition, with thanks to the Shire for maintenance following the storms the previous week.
Once again, the working dog exhibition and morning tea at Nutfield, and lunch on the riverbank at Cremona were a highlight for riders and made it a special day. Thanks to John Sinclair and family for their continued support, and all Rotarians for your assistance with catering, registrations, marshalling, set up and the many other tasks behind the scene.
Julie gave a quick wrap of another very successful Cycle Dindi, held last Saturday in perfect bike riding weather. There were 183 riders, the highest number so are! The trail was in top condition, with thanks to the Shire for maintenance following the storms the previous week.
Once again, the working dog exhibition and morning tea at Nutfield, and lunch on the riverbank at Cremona were a highlight for riders and made it a special day. Thanks to John Sinclair and family for their continued support, and all Rotarians for your assistance with catering, registrations, marshalling, set up and the many other tasks behind the scene.
Youth Exchange
On Wednesday night, Julie and Ian Lynch took Haru to the Rotary Club of Broadmeadows’ meeting, where return exchange student Levi gave an excellent presentation on his 12 month exchange.Haru has been invited to present to the Broadmeadows Club, who are her co host club, on Wednesday 30th April. This is a meal meeting held at the Glenroy RSL. To assist members to attend we will carpool, and there will not be a meeting in Yea that week.
Thanks to Yea Show Committee for catering this week,
another really delicious meal!
Club Assembly
3 minute speaker - Glenn Milliken
Glenn has done a lot of interesting history re-search and introduced us to Sir Hubert Wilkins—B 1888, D 1958. Sir Hubert was one of 13 children, growing up on a farm in rural South Australia, He went on to study Engineering and Photography. Going on to make newsreels and after moving to London he became a war photographer during WW1. He was awarded the Military Cross with Bar. Working in the trenches with troops, he was wounded on 9 occasions.
His interest in exploration saw his participate in a submarine venture in 1931, hoping to explore the North Pole via travel under ice travel.
During WW2 Sir Hubert served as an Intelligence Officer for US and Australian Military, working behind enemy lines.
On his passing in 1958 his ashes were spread in the North Pole by a US submarine, fulfilling his exploration ambitions for under ice travel.
Glenn has done a lot of interesting history re-search and introduced us to Sir Hubert Wilkins—B 1888, D 1958. Sir Hubert was one of 13 children, growing up on a farm in rural South Australia, He went on to study Engineering and Photography. Going on to make newsreels and after moving to London he became a war photographer during WW1. He was awarded the Military Cross with Bar. Working in the trenches with troops, he was wounded on 9 occasions.His interest in exploration saw his participate in a submarine venture in 1931, hoping to explore the North Pole via travel under ice travel.
During WW2 Sir Hubert served as an Intelligence Officer for US and Australian Military, working behind enemy lines.
On his passing in 1958 his ashes were spread in the North Pole by a US submarine, fulfilling his exploration ambitions for under ice travel.
CLUB ASSEMBLY—Chairperson, Darryl King.
Treasurer—Gary Fitzgerald
Up to date finance report circulated prior to meeting.
Up to date finance report circulated prior to meeting.
Community Service—Les Hall
Reciprocal support to Yea Football Club for assistance with Art Show Screens, we have been requested to man to gate for home games, commencing 5 April.
Roster for will be circulated. Australia Day BBQ was a huge success, thank you to Yea CFA for their support in setting up and packing up.
Thank you to Eoghan Dowling for coordinating the carparking arrangements at the Yea Race Club Meetings for the 2024/25 season.
Seniors Christmas Dinner in December was a successful night. BBQ at the Carols in the Park was very well supported!
Paringa Field Day— BBQ for 145
This Saturday is Cycle Dindi BBQ lunch on riverbank at Cremona.
ANZAC Day set up and BBQ on 25 April.
Reciprocal support to Yea Football Club for assistance with Art Show Screens, we have been requested to man to gate for home games, commencing 5 April.
Roster for will be circulated. Australia Day BBQ was a huge success, thank you to Yea CFA for their support in setting up and packing up.
Thank you to Eoghan Dowling for coordinating the carparking arrangements at the Yea Race Club Meetings for the 2024/25 season.
Seniors Christmas Dinner in December was a successful night. BBQ at the Carols in the Park was very well supported!
Paringa Field Day— BBQ for 145
This Saturday is Cycle Dindi BBQ lunch on riverbank at Cremona.
ANZAC Day set up and BBQ on 25 April.
Youth Services—Lily Cox
Thankyou to the team for your support while I was on leave.
We have spoken to the high school re potential students for upcoming pro-grams,
Paul has been in contact with outbound exchange student Andrew Foster, in Germany, who reports that he is enjoying his exchange, and is on his Euro trip.
Our next inbound student arrives in July, and we are looking for host families to support us.
Haru has moved from the Hard/Charles family to the Foster family.
Thankyou to the team for your support while I was on leave.
We have spoken to the high school re potential students for upcoming pro-grams,
Paul has been in contact with outbound exchange student Andrew Foster, in Germany, who reports that he is enjoying his exchange, and is on his Euro trip.
Our next inbound student arrives in July, and we are looking for host families to support us.
Haru has moved from the Hard/Charles family to the Foster family.
International Service—Tippy Anderson (absent)
Whilst travelling in Thailand, Tippy and David have visited the schools where English speaking corners have been set up, delivering donated books and toys.
Whilst travelling in Thailand, Tippy and David have visited the schools where English speaking corners have been set up, delivering donated books and toys.
Membership—Tony Jacobs
We welcome Lochlan Fletcher and Alicia Little as new members and look for-ward to their induction.
We welcome Lochlan Fletcher and Alicia Little as new members and look for-ward to their induction.
Foundation—Tony Jacobs
Tony gave an update on Polio cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan, with reported cases having declined.
Disaster Relief replenishment of funds by Rotary Clubs, for supply of clean water, has been requested and meet with a positive response.
Grants are available upon application, to be met by clubs on a one to one.
Tony gave an update on Polio cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan, with reported cases having declined.
Disaster Relief replenishment of funds by Rotary Clubs, for supply of clean water, has been requested and meet with a positive response.
Grants are available upon application, to be met by clubs on a one to one.
Public Image—Glenda Woods
Directors reports for the Annual Report are due now, and an early submission would be appreciated. Glenda gave a “snapshot” of what is entailed at Public Image director—writing articles for media; taking lots of photos and then taking the time to crop each one for publishing; maintaining the Facebook page; promoting all events; speaking on UGFM to promote events. An example is our current event, Cycle Din-di, requires setting up TryBooking for registrations, and communicating via email with many of the participants.
Directors reports for the Annual Report are due now, and an early submission would be appreciated. Glenda gave a “snapshot” of what is entailed at Public Image director—writing articles for media; taking lots of photos and then taking the time to crop each one for publishing; maintaining the Facebook page; promoting all events; speaking on UGFM to promote events. An example is our current event, Cycle Din-di, requires setting up TryBooking for registrations, and communicating via email with many of the participants.
Club Service—Glenn Milliken
Our visit to the Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry was a really successful multi club outing, with Alexandra and Mansfield RC’s joining us, where we toured workshops, guided tour of a fabulous boat, followed by a meal together at Jerusalem Creek Boat Harbour. Hosted by Mike Dalmau, President LEHBA. Thanks Penny, for making it happen!
Our visit to the Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry was a really successful multi club outing, with Alexandra and Mansfield RC’s joining us, where we toured workshops, guided tour of a fabulous boat, followed by a meal together at Jerusalem Creek Boat Harbour. Hosted by Mike Dalmau, President LEHBA. Thanks Penny, for making it happen!
Other Reports:
Glenda—Cycle Dindi
So far Kyla has raised over $1,000 for her sponsored ride. WOW!
To date we have 168 paid entries, and hopefully by Saturday should have over 180 riders. Thanks to Alexandra RC or help cleaning up shed at Nutfield.
Glenda—Cycle Dindi
So far Kyla has raised over $1,000 for her sponsored ride. WOW!
To date we have 168 paid entries, and hopefully by Saturday should have over 180 riders. Thanks to Alexandra RC or help cleaning up shed at Nutfield.
Thanks to Kerry and team, Emily and Declan, for another delicious meal
Vocational Tour - Eildon Houseboat Industry
This week was our vocational tour of the Eildon Houseboat Industry, joined by members of Alexandra and Mansfield Rotary Clubs, where we were able to see the full extent of the houseboat industry, with boat builders creating magnificent watercraft with very high end specifications!
Our tour guide/host, Mike Dalmau (President of the Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry Association), led our group through the boat building sheds where we saw boats built from design to completion, then on to Eildon Boat Club, where we were able to tour a 3 story luxury boat, our tour culminated
with a meal at Jerusalem Creek Marina.
Mike shared his knowledge of the industry with passion and enthusiasm, having been part of the industry journey which has seen Eildon prosper and grow. The building industry has been established in the original workshop sheds used by Utah during the construction of Lake Eildon and the dam wall precinct. The original shed, still in use, was a former shed from the Volkswagon manufacturing site in Germany which was transported out.
Lake Eildon, governed by Goulburn Murray Water, is the only inland waterway in Victo ria to allow houseboating, there is a restriction of 720 licences available for houseboats on the lake.
It is a requirement that each boat has a complete maintenance overhaul, in dry dock, every 5 years.
As with many industries, the boat building industry is finding it a challenge to attract apprentices to the rural area to fill job vacancies. Unfortunately distance and lack of suitable housing accommodation is hampering the job market. Overall 2,500 jobs have been created by recreation on Lake Eildon,
This week was our vocational tour of the Eildon Houseboat Industry, joined by members of Alexandra and Mansfield Rotary Clubs, where we were able to see the full extent of the houseboat industry, with boat builders creating magnificent watercraft with very high end specifications!
Our tour guide/host, Mike Dalmau (President of the Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry Association), led our group through the boat building sheds where we saw boats built from design to completion, then on to Eildon Boat Club, where we were able to tour a 3 story luxury boat, our tour culminated
with a meal at Jerusalem Creek Marina.Mike shared his knowledge of the industry with passion and enthusiasm, having been part of the industry journey which has seen Eildon prosper and grow. The building industry has been established in the original workshop sheds used by Utah during the construction of Lake Eildon and the dam wall precinct. The original shed, still in use, was a former shed from the Volkswagon manufacturing site in Germany which was transported out.
Lake Eildon, governed by Goulburn Murray Water, is the only inland waterway in Victo ria to allow houseboating, there is a restriction of 720 licences available for houseboats on the lake.
It is a requirement that each boat has a complete maintenance overhaul, in dry dock, every 5 years.
As with many industries, the boat building industry is finding it a challenge to attract apprentices to the rural area to fill job vacancies. Unfortunately distance and lack of suitable housing accommodation is hampering the job market. Overall 2,500 jobs have been created by recreation on Lake Eildon,
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| Mike Dalmau and Darryl. | Our Yea Rotarians making themselves very comfortable on the top deck! |
Thank you, Penny and Glenn, for organising such an interesting vocational tour and meal, and a very big should out to Glenn for driving the bus, particularly with the return journey being such a challenge due to the torrential rain we drove through! Thanks Denise, for assisting with the pickup and drop off of the bus.
Guest Speaker - Jeff Swain, Yea RSL (Currently filling roles of President, Secretary and Treasurer!) Jeff replaced Chloe, our proposed guest speaker who was unable to attend. Chloe was to talk on her sponsored Kokoda Track Walk which she completed in 2024.
Jeff spoke of changes to Legacy, though at a local level, support for Legacy widows and families will remain the same.
At a local level there have been some changes to the club with the President moving from the district, but with the support the Melbourne HQ the club is still active, though numbers are diminishing due to age. Whilst the club is financially viable, and the building is an asset for the community, the future of the branch will be facing a big decision whether to amalgamate with neighbours or seek support from Melbourne. The RSL is extremely grateful to Rotary for their support to keep going.
ANZAC day is always a successful ceremony thanks to the support from Rotary and Yea High School.
To recognise the support from Yea High School students to the RSL, Yea RSL would like to sponsor a student for 3 years, aligned with the Ruth Konig Scholarship, and to start the process, Jeff presented President Penny with a cheque for $6,000
Vote of thanks from Gary Fitzgerald
Jeff spoke of changes to Legacy, though at a local level, support for Legacy widows and families will remain the same.
At a local level there have been some changes to the club with the President moving from the district, but with the support the Melbourne HQ the club is still active, though numbers are diminishing due to age. Whilst the club is financially viable, and the building is an asset for the community, the future of the branch will be facing a big decision whether to amalgamate with neighbours or seek support from Melbourne. The RSL is extremely grateful to Rotary for their support to keep going.
ANZAC day is always a successful ceremony thanks to the support from Rotary and Yea High School.
To recognise the support from Yea High School students to the RSL, Yea RSL would like to sponsor a student for 3 years, aligned with the Ruth Konig Scholarship, and to start the process, Jeff presented President Penny with a cheque for $6,000
Vote of thanks from Gary Fitzgerald
David Anderson explained that Chloe, our guest speaker, had school commitments and unable to attend tonight. Her walk of the Kokoda Track was sponsored by Yea RSL, Cindy McLeish also completed the walk with Chloe.
David tested our knowledge on local facts associated with the Kokoda Track:
• John Landy (brother of Patricia Zerbe) was the fastest to walk the 90km track in 1950’s (4 days)
• Peter Lawrance from Yea, is buried at Bomana War Cemetery, Port Morsby.
David tested our knowledge on local facts associated with the Kokoda Track:
• John Landy (brother of Patricia Zerbe) was the fastest to walk the 90km track in 1950’s (4 days)
• Peter Lawrance from Yea, is buried at Bomana War Cemetery, Port Morsby.
3 Minute Speaker—Julie Lynch
Julie themed her 3 minute talk around Rotary Raffles! “Endless Service—Endless Raffles”! We seem to be always busy with our raffles—Art Show, Cycle Dindi and Garden Expo, along with our weekly club raffles, which all raise funds for our various projects such as Youth Exchange and community needs. We are really well supported, with most of the raffle prizes donated from within our community. Street sales are a great way to promote Rotary and attract new memberships. Using the eftpos machine has helped with those who no longer carry cash. Last week Pen-ny & Darryl raised $415.00 for Cycle Dindi, so our raffle may be humble, but it still packs a punch!
Julie themed her 3 minute talk around Rotary Raffles! “Endless Service—Endless Raffles”! We seem to be always busy with our raffles—Art Show, Cycle Dindi and Garden Expo, along with our weekly club raffles, which all raise funds for our various projects such as Youth Exchange and community needs. We are really well supported, with most of the raffle prizes donated from within our community. Street sales are a great way to promote Rotary and attract new memberships. Using the eftpos machine has helped with those who no longer carry cash. Last week Pen-ny & Darryl raised $415.00 for Cycle Dindi, so our raffle may be humble, but it still packs a punch!Kyla Dowling—Cycle Dindi sponsored ride.
Kayla has committed to a 70 km ride to raise funds for Cycle Dindi, riding from Yea to Alexandra and return. Her dad, Eoghan, will ride with her for support. So far she has raised $400.00 and is seeking further sponsorship
Kayla has committed to a 70 km ride to raise funds for Cycle Dindi, riding from Yea to Alexandra and return. Her dad, Eoghan, will ride with her for support. So far she has raised $400.00 and is seeking further sponsorship
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| President Penny and Jeff Swain | Jeff Swain and Ed Davies |
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| Congratulations to Alicia Little and Lochie Fletcher, who recently announced their engagement! | Thanks to Deb Baynes and team for delicious roast pork meal! |
Ruth Konig Award Evening
Tonight, we celebrate the continuing achievements of our Ruth Konig Scholarship recipients and welcome our 2025 winner. Julie Lynch introduced our awardees and gave a brief overview of the Scholarship, in memory of Ruth Ko-nig. Ruth, a passionate and dedicated Rotarian and Teacher at Yea High School, believed in being able to make a difference to students lives, leaving a financial legacy which is funding the scholarship. Each student receives $2,000 annually for 3 years, which assists with travel, textbooks and living expenses while they study, we are proud of you all and celebrate your achievements.
Each student spoke of their tertiary studies so far and goals for their future.
- 2023 Winners Olivia Johnson— Nursing, RMIT Bundoora and Declan Fulford— Science, Melbourne University, branching into Bio Medical engineering.
- 2024 Winners Madilyn Granter - Occupational Therapy, La Trobe Bundoora and Louis Callander - Cyber Security, Computer Protection, La Trobe Bundoora
- 2025 Winner Madilyn Flynn Batchelor of Science & Master of Teaching, RMIT Bundoora
L to R Students: Declan Fulford, Olivia Johnson, Madilyn Flynn, Maddie Granter, Louis Callander.
Secretary Glenda:
Thankyou letters have been sent to all sponsors for the Art Show.
Letter received from St Lukes Anglican Parish, Yea, for the donation towards the Christmas Hampers.
Letter from Kimm Noonan, Yea Show Society, thanking Rotary for their assistance on the gates at the November Show, and enquiring if Rotary is still interested in assisting at future Shows. Kimm, who has been driving the catering team for many years, if handing over the reigns to Marlene, with Yea Show Committee continuing to cater for Rotary meetings.
Tonight's Caterers Yea Tigers Swimming Club, another delicious meal!
The catering team was led by Liz Bastion, assisted by Darren on the dishes, and the Water Tigers team. Thankyou
Club Assembly
Rebound Exchange Student, Nakaiah Kerr, spoke of their amazing experiences gained during their 12 week exchange to Taiwan. Nakaiah departed in November to undertake their second exchange, having spent 12 months in 2023 in Denmark. Nakaiah stayed with their host family, parents and 3 children, and at-tended a small school secondary school, attending 8 am to 4 pm plus travel, and had a mixture of classes ranging across 3 levels. They attended Rotary events and spent Christmas in 
Nantou County on a Rotary trip. The costume worn tonight was purchased at a market while on this trip. The host family provided many culinary experiences and ensured that they travelled extensively to enjoy the exchange.
Nakaiah thanked Yea Rotary Club for supporting this amazing experience!
Nantou County on a Rotary trip. The costume worn tonight was purchased at a market while on this trip. The host family provided many culinary experiences and ensured that they travelled extensively to enjoy the exchange.Nakaiah thanked Yea Rotary Club for supporting this amazing experience!
President Penny made a wonderful donation of toys to assist with the English Speaking Corners at the 3 Thai schools that we sponsor. There will be some very happy little English speaking students who unpack this donation!
Chairperson for the meeting was Darryl
Darryl thanked our caterers tonight—Yea Primary School, who once again served a delicious roast with lots of vegetables, followed by desert.
It is always wonderful to see the student leaders step up and assist with serving the meals. Thankyou!
Darryl thanked our caterers tonight—Yea Primary School, who once again served a delicious roast with lots of vegetables, followed by desert.
It is always wonderful to see the student leaders step up and assist with serving the meals. Thankyou!
Club Assembly—Directors Reports:
Finance—Gary Fitzgerald. Detailed reports have been provide to Board. Art Show almost finalised, with interim report showing approximately $14,000 raised,
Community Service—Les Hall. Paringa Field Day BBQ under control!
Youth Service—Chris Kellett
Currently looking for host families to support the 2025-26 Youth Exchange Program. Need news families to ensure the programs success.
International Service—Tippy Anderson
The English speaking program at the 3 Thai schools still require support. Thank you to Penny for the donation of toys and books.
Club Service—Glenn Milliken
Guest Speaker program for March, April and May have been booked up. This includes a visit to Broadmeadows RC on 30 April.
Cycle Dindi— Julie Lynch
Roster for duties currently being circulated, any help would be appreciated.
Over 100 registrations so far. Kyla Dowling has offered to do a sponsored ride so will be looking for sponsorship.
Kristie Luckman, on behalf of Eoghan, thanked all who helped with manning the gates at the local race meetings this season.
Club Assembly was followed by a fun music quiz session run by Penny
Finance—Gary Fitzgerald. Detailed reports have been provide to Board. Art Show almost finalised, with interim report showing approximately $14,000 raised,
Community Service—Les Hall. Paringa Field Day BBQ under control!
Youth Service—Chris Kellett
Currently looking for host families to support the 2025-26 Youth Exchange Program. Need news families to ensure the programs success.
International Service—Tippy Anderson
The English speaking program at the 3 Thai schools still require support. Thank you to Penny for the donation of toys and books.
Club Service—Glenn Milliken
Guest Speaker program for March, April and May have been booked up. This includes a visit to Broadmeadows RC on 30 April.
Cycle Dindi— Julie Lynch
Roster for duties currently being circulated, any help would be appreciated.
Over 100 registrations so far. Kyla Dowling has offered to do a sponsored ride so will be looking for sponsorship.
Kristie Luckman, on behalf of Eoghan, thanked all who helped with manning the gates at the local race meetings this season.
Club Assembly was followed by a fun music quiz session run by Penny
tonight's caterers —Yea Primary School,
Guest Speaker — Michelle Allen from Muddy Creek Health Group.
Michelle has worked as a massage therapist in the community, and with Seymour Hospital, for the past 14 years. This has been mostly working from home. Michelle is very proud to announce the expansion of her business, to a new location next to the post office, and to include other local therapists allowing all round healing to be offered om site. These will include osteopathy, counselling and the new Tesla Former—a muscle building and body toning device, where electromagnetic waves strengthen and build tone to your body.
We wish Michelle all the best with her new venture.
Vote of thanks—Peter Tull.
Haru gave us a snapshot of her first Australian Christmas and summer holidays experiences.
Christmas was culturally different as Japan does not celebrate with public holidays. She really enjoyed the hospitality—food and presents! Visited the Christmas Tree display in Alexandra with Penny and enjoyed New Year, with fireworks, with the Dredge family. Boating on Eildon at Bonnie Doon with Amanda and family—mastering the ‘biscuit’ ride, and watching The Castle to ensure she enjoyed the serenity of it all. Visit to Australian Open with other exchange students was fun. The penguins at Phillip Island were “cute”! Haru has enjoyed many experiences, thanks to host families.
Three minute speaker — David AndersonDavid brought to our attention that Sunday 23rd February is the 120th Birthday of Rota-ry.
Very fitting that the occasion falls in February, which is Peace and Conflict Resolution month. As a service and humanitarian organisation, peace is central to, the cornerstone of, our mission. The mission of Rotary Internation and The Rotary Foundation is: To help Rotary embers to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace by improving health, providing quality education, improving the environment and alleviating poverty.
Rotary is not alone is observing 23rd February. Whilst we call it Rotary Day, technically it is World Understanding and Peace Day but was establ
ished to mark the anniversary of the Rotary International.Cycle Dindi—Julie
Five weeks until our Cycle Dindi event, the 9th ride in the past 10 years. To date we have 62 on line registrations, which is fantastic. We will need a lot of help to provide a top class event, as usual, with raffle sales starting next week. (roster circulated), help with morning tea at Sinclairs shearing shed on the day (scones to be made) and help to set up the lunch spot on Friday, as well as help with cooking, serving and packing up after lunch,
Maybe family and friends might be interested in helping. Kyla has once again offered to do a sponsored ride, with all money going to our Youth Projects (school bursaries, RYLA, Ruth Konig scholarships etc.)
Our caterers tonight — Yea Riding Club — a delicious meal. Slow cooked Moroccan lamb! Thankyou
Guest Speaker Brian D’Arcy, Principal, Yea High School.
Brian, (currently on long service leave), is Principal of Yea High School, having stepped up to the role in 2022, after arriving at Yea to take on the Assistant Principal role in 2017. Brian has been a Physical Education teacher for 41 years, commencing in St. Albans in 1983, moving on to Lilydale Heights SC and then Healesville SC, where he had an Assistant Principal role before coming to Yea, and is looking forward to seeing out his education career at Yea High School. One of Brian’s first roles in the Yea com-munity was to coach the local foot-ball team.
Brian spoke of the role of education in the community, and the impact of having a secondary school in Yea, providing a full and comprehensive education to local students within our municipality, and supporting Yea by being one of the larger employers in the district.
Whilst the school was built in 1964, the buildings require constant updating and refurbishment to maintain remain up to date for student use. The oval and sporting facilities have been refreshed recently and are offered for use to local sporting clubs.
Currently there are 200 students enrolled at the school and an off campus pro-gram run in Wantirna caters for 115 students. Brian encouraged members to be advocated for the school, to encourage enrolments at the local level, which in turn keeps families connected to the town.
The Rotary Club involvement is invaluable, with bursaries, mentoring and scholarships supporting our students to reach their full potential and making a difference to their access to education.
Brian, (currently on long service leave), is Principal of Yea High School, having stepped up to the role in 2022, after arriving at Yea to take on the Assistant Principal role in 2017. Brian has been a Physical Education teacher for 41 years, commencing in St. Albans in 1983, moving on to Lilydale Heights SC and then Healesville SC, where he had an Assistant Principal role before coming to Yea, and is looking forward to seeing out his education career at Yea High School. One of Brian’s first roles in the Yea com-munity was to coach the local foot-ball team.Brian spoke of the role of education in the community, and the impact of having a secondary school in Yea, providing a full and comprehensive education to local students within our municipality, and supporting Yea by being one of the larger employers in the district.
Whilst the school was built in 1964, the buildings require constant updating and refurbishment to maintain remain up to date for student use. The oval and sporting facilities have been refreshed recently and are offered for use to local sporting clubs.
Currently there are 200 students enrolled at the school and an off campus pro-gram run in Wantirna caters for 115 students. Brian encouraged members to be advocated for the school, to encourage enrolments at the local level, which in turn keeps families connected to the town.
The Rotary Club involvement is invaluable, with bursaries, mentoring and scholarships supporting our students to reach their full potential and making a difference to their access to education.
3 Minute Speaker — Chris Kellett
Chris spoke of her wonderful achievement of completing 9 annual Great Victorian Bike Rides, commencing 2007, taking in some challenging and rewarding roads across the state. Many days during the rides required 100 or more kilometres to be ridden, so many days of training had to be undertaken, with riding up Junction Hill the challenge each time!
It was a wonderful experience, with riders aged up to 80 years old participating. Bicycle Victoria provided catering, great camp facilities, entertainment and on- road back up support.
Chris spoke of her wonderful achievement of completing 9 annual Great Victorian Bike Rides, commencing 2007, taking in some challenging and rewarding roads across the state. Many days during the rides required 100 or more kilometres to be ridden, so many days of training had to be undertaken, with riding up Junction Hill the challenge each time!
It was a wonderful experience, with riders aged up to 80 years old participating. Bicycle Victoria provided catering, great camp facilities, entertainment and on- road back up support.
Caterers for meal tonight — Deb Baynes, with support from Michelle and Maree.
Thanks for another delicious meal!
And special thanks to Deb for doing a last minute emergency swap with rostered caterers!
Thanks for another delicious meal!
And special thanks to Deb for doing a last minute emergency swap with rostered caterers!
Club Assembly - First Formal Meeting of 2025
President Penny -
• Welcomed our guests, outbound exchange student Andrew Foster, together with mum Alissia and dad John.
• Great to have Gary Cocks, Russell and Carol Hogg with us tonight
• Apology from Liz Fletcher, Greg is now is palliative care.
• Australia Day BBQ and Rotary Australia Day Community Award will be held in the plantation opposite the Shire Hall. Les is coordinating the BBQ.
• President Elect Nominee for 2026/27 year is Ann Drysdale.
• Yea Races on Saturday, thanks to those who responded to Eoghans’ call for ex-tra helpers.
• District Conference will be held in Albury this year. Early bird registration ends on 31 January,
• Cycle Dindi event planning is underway, with 10 riders already signed up!
• Welcomed our guests, outbound exchange student Andrew Foster, together with mum Alissia and dad John.
• Great to have Gary Cocks, Russell and Carol Hogg with us tonight
• Apology from Liz Fletcher, Greg is now is palliative care.
• Australia Day BBQ and Rotary Australia Day Community Award will be held in the plantation opposite the Shire Hall. Les is coordinating the BBQ.
• President Elect Nominee for 2026/27 year is Ann Drysdale.
• Yea Races on Saturday, thanks to those who responded to Eoghans’ call for ex-tra helpers.
• District Conference will be held in Albury this year. Early bird registration ends on 31 January,
• Cycle Dindi event planning is underway, with 10 riders already signed up!
Penny presented Andrew with the Rotary Club of Yea banner, to be gifted to his host club, Annual Report and club booklet, along with the Australian Flag, which will be proudly displayed and appear in many photos as Andrew travels.Thank you to Helen Haines, Federal member for Indi, for providing the flag.
ART SHOW—Ian Tobin
Ian gave an update on the Art Show, with special thanks to Carol and Russell, Glenda, Darryl, Penny, Less, Ian and Julie for their support, ensuring another very successful event.
The roster is being circulated tonight, with a few gaps to be filled. The final roster will be emailed. Please check!
Screens will be erected on Monday, with Bob & Paul installing the electricals on Tuesday.
Darryl has the catering in hand!
We have 217 entries to display.
Please remember to return your raffle ticket booklets and remember to dress to the Rotary theme of Magic, with lots of glitter and sequins!
Ian gave an update on the Art Show, with special thanks to Carol and Russell, Glenda, Darryl, Penny, Less, Ian and Julie for their support, ensuring another very successful event.
The roster is being circulated tonight, with a few gaps to be filled. The final roster will be emailed. Please check!
Screens will be erected on Monday, with Bob & Paul installing the electricals on Tuesday.
Darryl has the catering in hand!
We have 217 entries to display.
Please remember to return your raffle ticket booklets and remember to dress to the Rotary theme of Magic, with lots of glitter and sequins!
Darryl thanked members for supporting the Yea Cancer Charity Day held at Kingsmere Park last Sunday. $9,000 was raised - a fabulous result! Darryl is already planning for the 2026 event!
Tippy reported that she and David delivered the donations of books and toys to the 3 schools in Thailand for the English Corners. All the donations were very much appreciated, and the students love the program.Glenda has reached out to our past exchange students for updates and so far has had emails from Fabio, Lara and Caroline and a card and letter from Solenne. All giving really positive updates on careers and families
Our First Meeting for 2025 - A picnic Meeting
The weather turned on a perfect evening for our picnic meeting, held on the banks of the Murrindindi River, Murrindindi. Thankyou Darryl for arranging our visit with your neighbour, who had gone to great trouble to have the picnic site and car access to within metres of the riverbank mown and safe! Thankyou Ryan, Rotarians appreciated your generosity! Rodney had the picnic site adorned with our Rotary regalia and led us in toasts.
Penny and Darry welcomed members and partners, and ensured a very social evening was had by all
Penny and Darry welcomed members and partners, and ensured a very social evening was had by all
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 |  Welcome home Lily & Lachie | |
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Happy Snaps of a very enjoyable picnic meeting! Thanks Glenda & Glenn | ||
