 | Sat 9th November, Sunday 10th November $5 Town Gardens $8 Country Gardens $40 per 2 Day (Pass All Gardens)  |
No Meeting - Pre-Garden Expo.
Click the following link for photos of our very successful Garden Expo.
Guest Speaker, Lynne Wallace-Greenberg, a campaigner for the conservation of Koalas.
Lynne has worked as a vet nurse, volunteering at the Port Macquarie Koala Rescue Centre, and going on the complete a degree in Environmental Science and continuing her studies with a Masters in Con-versation Ecology. Lynne works with Koala Smart, a conservation project based learning program. Lynne shared her passion for these mammals with us, with a very detailed and interesting presentation.Koalas—scientific name Phascolarctos Cinereus and are of the same sub order as the wombat, Vombatidae. They have distinct hands and feet, with 2 thumbs and digits 1 & 2 fused. This gives them climbing advantages. Koala habitat is the eastern seaboard ranges, from Queensland to Victoria and south eastern South Australia. They are not found in Tasmania. Late 1800’s to 1927 the koalas were hunted to near extinction, with pelts used for hats. They were transported to Kangaroo Island and French Island for their protection, though this led to overpopulation, inbreeding and defoliation of habitat, consequently now low genetic diversity. Southern koalas are larger, with darker, more dense fur than the northern koalas. They are facing many challenges to their natural territory, such as
land clearing and habitat fragmentation, climate change, changing soil PH reflects a loss of moisture in leaf. Other threats to health such as chlamydia, retrovirus, cryptococcus and mange are causing decline in population. Dog attacks, drowning, logging (loss of habitat connectivity) and bushfires all threatens the koala population. Life expectancy of males, in wild, is 12 years; females, 15 years. Conservation and education are ways we can help conserve our precious koalas.Vote of thanks—Terry Hubbard.
3 minute speaker, Sam.
With a lot of media exposure to the current Middle East crisis, Sam has done some research, via electronic media, into the meaning of the word “Martyr”. Sam shared his findings, from biblical times through to current day.
With a lot of media exposure to the current Middle East crisis, Sam has done some research, via electronic media, into the meaning of the word “Martyr”. Sam shared his findings, from biblical times through to current day.
President Penny welcomed Luke, Grade 5 student from Sacred Heart Primary School to tell us about their “hands on” project, building straw bale seating. The students are looking to purchase 10 straw bales, which will have a mortar finish and be incorporated into the school garden patch.
Thankyou Luke!
Thankyou Luke!
Congratulations to Haru, receiving her official Yea RC badge tonight.
Guest Speaker, Sam Hicks, an events and business advisor, currently involved with Murrindindi Harvest event.
Sam has an immense passion and belief in the promotion of tourism and produce from our local region and has so generously given her support to local producers to enable the recognition deserved of their produce, as well as having the gift of writing successful grant applications! Sam originally worked in Yea in 2002, promoting tourism in Yea and surrounds through Yea Information Centre which was first established at the Railway Station and is disappointed that we do not have a local business voice in the town. 24 years ago Sam was at the inaugural meeting of Murrindindi Wine & Food Culture Group, promoting local produce of the Upper Goulburn region. In 2009 she was involved with Murrindindi Food & Wine to launch the Marysville World's Longest Lunch, which showcased over 60 local suppliers. This group has since been renamed as Murrindindi Wine Makers and subsequently Support Local Campaign; Murrindindi Business Resilience and Murrindindi “On Your Table”. Sam is currently supporting Murrindindi Harvest Celebrations, a market day to support and promote local agribusiness, with workshops, meet the maker, tastings and produce for sale. This will be held at the Yea Railway Park on 16th November. Sam has asked that we help promote the event by sharing online promotions.
Sam has an immense passion and belief in the promotion of tourism and produce from our local region and has so generously given her support to local producers to enable the recognition deserved of their produce, as well as having the gift of writing successful grant applications! Sam originally worked in Yea in 2002, promoting tourism in Yea and surrounds through Yea Information Centre which was first established at the Railway Station and is disappointed that we do not have a local business voice in the town. 24 years ago Sam was at the inaugural meeting of Murrindindi Wine & Food Culture Group, promoting local produce of the Upper Goulburn region. In 2009 she was involved with Murrindindi Food & Wine to launch the Marysville World's Longest Lunch, which showcased over 60 local suppliers. This group has since been renamed as Murrindindi Wine Makers and subsequently Support Local Campaign; Murrindindi Business Resilience and Murrindindi “On Your Table”. Sam is currently supporting Murrindindi Harvest Celebrations, a market day to support and promote local agribusiness, with workshops, meet the maker, tastings and produce for sale. This will be held at the Yea Railway Park on 16th November. Sam has asked that we help promote the event by sharing online promotions.3 minute Speaker—Glenda Woods
Glenda received an email today from her American friend who she met through RFE, Lyn O’Connor, which she read to us. We have all met Lyn, as she and hus-band Ed spoke at a meeting last year while visiting Glenda and attending the inter-national convention. Lyn lives on a 1000 acre wilderness property in Washington State, USA. Whilst out walking with her two dogs they inadvertently came between a mother brown bear (small) and her cub. The dogs chased the cub up a tree, and the mother bear, not too happy about the interruption, turned her attention to Lyn. In defence Lyn dropped to the ground and tried to protect herself, but was mauled around her head and upper body by the adult bear. The dogs came to her defence and chased off the bear. Being a long way from home, fortunately having her phone, Lyn made contact with family who quickly supplied assistance and she was eventually airlifted to hospital where her wounds were stapled and stitched, and leaving her very bruised.
How terrifying. We wish Lynn a speedy recovery so she can get back to her cherished rural life and Rotary commitments
Glenda received an email today from her American friend who she met through RFE, Lyn O’Connor, which she read to us. We have all met Lyn, as she and hus-band Ed spoke at a meeting last year while visiting Glenda and attending the inter-national convention. Lyn lives on a 1000 acre wilderness property in Washington State, USA. Whilst out walking with her two dogs they inadvertently came between a mother brown bear (small) and her cub. The dogs chased the cub up a tree, and the mother bear, not too happy about the interruption, turned her attention to Lyn. In defence Lyn dropped to the ground and tried to protect herself, but was mauled around her head and upper body by the adult bear. The dogs came to her defence and chased off the bear. Being a long way from home, fortunately having her phone, Lyn made contact with family who quickly supplied assistance and she was eventually airlifted to hospital where her wounds were stapled and stitched, and leaving her very bruised.
How terrifying. We wish Lynn a speedy recovery so she can get back to her cherished rural life and Rotary commitments
Gary Fitzgerald was pleased to report that the proposed Agricultural Scholarship will proceed with funding of $2,000 per year for the next 3 years secured. Thanks to Gary Cocks for assisting.
Thanks to Yea Water Tigers for catering to-night!
Delicious roast!
Fifth Thursday of the month -a fun social evening
President Penny —
• Welcome to our guest Jill Heath, and also our exchange student, Haru.
• Alexandra & Mansfield RCs are proposing a film afternoon in Mansfield as a fundraiser for End Polio. The film “Thelma” will be screened on 6th October at 4 pm. Let Penny know if you are interested in attending.
• Birthday wishes to Terry H for his 80th on Saturday. Thankyou for “money on the bar”, we all enjoyed a drink with you!
Secretary’s Report – Glenda
• Annual Report from Childrens First Foundation, Kilmore.
• Rotary Down Under magazine has arrived.
• Draft roster for Garden Expo duties will be emailed this week.
Being the 5th Thursday of the month, we held a fun social evening—Pizza, Ice creams and CHALLENGING TRIVIA!
Quiz Master Tony mixed us into four groups and set a fairly mean Trivia! It challenged us all, with lots of whispering, laughter and guessing.
The winning team members were: Jill Heath, David A, Haru, Paul G and Sam W. Congratulations!
Each received a block of chocolate each for their efforts.
Quiz Master Tony mixed us into four groups and set a fairly mean Trivia! It challenged us all, with lots of whispering, laughter and guessing.
The winning team members were: Jill Heath, David A, Haru, Paul G and Sam W. Congratulations!
Each received a block of chocolate each for their efforts.
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| Quiz Master Tony | Haru and Tippy |
Guest Speakers -Yea-Kinglake RSL Sub Branch, President David Nutt and Past President Jeffrey Swain .
David took the opportunity to introduce himself as the current President of Yea-Kinglake RSL, a role he took on 6 months ago, having recently moved to Yea.
He thanked Yea Rotary Club, acknowledging the help and friendship to support the RSL to continue with the provision of local services to veterans and the community, such as joining the committee, ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies, BBQs to support veterans and families after the ceremonies, and hall maintenance. This has enabled RSL to maintain community connections and the additional committee members to meet governance requirements.
Past President Jeffrey Swain gave an overview of some club activities. Branch numbers have increased to 60, ensuring it is now financially viable.
The funds raised through badge sales and flag collections assist with ongoings such as insur-ance and cleaning, which are always increasing as well as sending half to State RSL for veteran programs.
Jeff updated us on RSL current affairs, speaking of the Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide, due to handed down next month, and of the hope to mitigate and identify those requiring assistance; Dept. of Veteran Affairs simplifying process to assist applicants; the aspirational ideal of one peak body to represent all veterans; the setting up of Veteran Hubs in regional areas to identify and assist ex service people; the amalgamation of Legacy branch-es to Melbourne Legacy, with financial and other assistance to legatees to be allocated in same manner; RSL strategic plan—still in development, with initial endorsement passed.
Vote of thanks—Bob Hentschel
David took the opportunity to introduce himself as the current President of Yea-Kinglake RSL, a role he took on 6 months ago, having recently moved to Yea.
He thanked Yea Rotary Club, acknowledging the help and friendship to support the RSL to continue with the provision of local services to veterans and the community, such as joining the committee, ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies, BBQs to support veterans and families after the ceremonies, and hall maintenance. This has enabled RSL to maintain community connections and the additional committee members to meet governance requirements.
Past President Jeffrey Swain gave an overview of some club activities. Branch numbers have increased to 60, ensuring it is now financially viable.
The funds raised through badge sales and flag collections assist with ongoings such as insur-ance and cleaning, which are always increasing as well as sending half to State RSL for veteran programs.
Jeff updated us on RSL current affairs, speaking of the Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide, due to handed down next month, and of the hope to mitigate and identify those requiring assistance; Dept. of Veteran Affairs simplifying process to assist applicants; the aspirational ideal of one peak body to represent all veterans; the setting up of Veteran Hubs in regional areas to identify and assist ex service people; the amalgamation of Legacy branch-es to Melbourne Legacy, with financial and other assistance to legatees to be allocated in same manner; RSL strategic plan—still in development, with initial endorsement passed.
Vote of thanks—Bob Hentschel
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| President David Nutt | Past President Jeffrey Swain . |
Three Minute Speaker— Les Hall
Les took the opportunity to update the club on a project we were invited to participate in 3 years ago to provide a vehicle in the north east to assist in mobile rural health clinics and vital health screenings, along with being an emergency recovery vehicle. Next month a $300,000 vehicle will be launched. Thanks to donations from District RC and Bushfire Appeals Fund, private enterprises and donations from the likes of Yea RC. It will provide mobile programs similar to our own Sale-yards clinics.
Thanks to Yea & District Riding Club for another fabulous meal!
Guest Speaker -Elizabeth Sinclair, CEO, Yea & District Memorial Hospital. (and daughter of John & Clare Sinclair)
Elizabeth spoke of her role at the Hospital, being very proud of wonderful community asset Yea has. The current political climate has been a challenge and the strong community opposition of proposed changes has sup-ported our health service. The State Government funding budget was released in May (usually available in February) with a 33% slash to the budget. This is a significant and devastating result. Government has stepped back from forced amalgamations of hospitals, though is working on regional based partnerships with larger hospitals in Hume region, (Shepparton, Albury/Wodonga, Wangaratta, Benalla), whilst still retaining local based executive and board. We need significant funds to provide services, insurance alone has increased 80%. Changes need to be made to be sustainable. $3.3 mill has been raised from other sources to support programs provided by Y&DMH—Mental Health Nurse practitioner, working with schools in Murrindindi & Mitchell shires; support group for Parkinson Disease sufferers; Saleyards Program; Wound Clinic; Drug & Alcohol sup-port program; and supporting the development of 10 independent living units with meals and hospital support, The hospital is currently working within the budget, with no closure of wards or clinical staff layoffsYea Hospital has always been a huge part of Elizabeths life, having grown up with mum nursing at Yea.
Vote of thanks from Liz Fletcher, who, like Elizabeth, grew up with her mum nursing at Yea and sharing the sane “family” of Yea Hospital.
Three Minute Speaker — Bob Hentschel
Bob reminded us that 1944 was a very special year for 3 Rotarians, including himself! On turning 80, Bob has taken the time to sit back and reflect on significant events that heralded his big year. (I’m sure it was Bob relying on his memory and definitely no help from Google!?!) Bob recounted famous people born in 1944, current affairs, such as DDay, sporting facts, musical hits and many more fun facts that have survived the time!
Happy Birthday Bob!
Bob reminded us that 1944 was a very special year for 3 Rotarians, including himself! On turning 80, Bob has taken the time to sit back and reflect on significant events that heralded his big year. (I’m sure it was Bob relying on his memory and definitely no help from Google!?!) Bob recounted famous people born in 1944, current affairs, such as DDay, sporting facts, musical hits and many more fun facts that have survived the time!
Happy Birthday Bob!
The Sinclair Family
L to R: Lachlan Cooper, Michael Cox, Lily Cox, Clair Sinclair, Elizabeth Sinclair, John Sinclair
Club Assembly
Three Minute Speaker — David Anderson
David took the opportunity to further explain the Rotary Foundation Global Grant, which District 9790 applied for to sponsor a Global Grant Scholar, who will under-take post graduate studies at an international university. Yea Rotary Club is a signatory sponsor for the District supplied grant.
Jeffrey Xia, a Melbourne University Environmental Science graduate, who is now working in the field of climate change, renewable energy and sustainable projects in Southeast Asia, was awarded the scholarship to undertake a duel masters degree at Stanford University, California, USA.
We heard from Jeffrey, via video, that he is very happy to be the recipient of the Global Grant Scholarship assisting him to study for 2 years, whilst he completed his Masters in Business Studies and Masters in Environment Science, offering the opportunity to create change, immerse in science and further studies.
Jeffrey thanked Yea RC and the 9790 leadership team for the opportunity to continue studying.
The $30,000 grant is 30% of funding required for the 24 month study commitment,
David took the opportunity to further explain the Rotary Foundation Global Grant, which District 9790 applied for to sponsor a Global Grant Scholar, who will under-take post graduate studies at an international university. Yea Rotary Club is a signatory sponsor for the District supplied grant.
Jeffrey Xia, a Melbourne University Environmental Science graduate, who is now working in the field of climate change, renewable energy and sustainable projects in Southeast Asia, was awarded the scholarship to undertake a duel masters degree at Stanford University, California, USA.
We heard from Jeffrey, via video, that he is very happy to be the recipient of the Global Grant Scholarship assisting him to study for 2 years, whilst he completed his Masters in Business Studies and Masters in Environment Science, offering the opportunity to create change, immerse in science and further studies.
Jeffrey thanked Yea RC and the 9790 leadership team for the opportunity to continue studying.
The $30,000 grant is 30% of funding required for the 24 month study commitment,
Directors Reports:
Club Service—Glenn M
Speakers program has been put in place up to December.
Next week we will hear from Elizabeth Sinclair, CEO, Yea & District Memorial Hospital.
Community Service—Les H,
Received correspondence from Steven Turner, Chaplain at Yea PS, inviting members to participate in a mentor program with students. It is anticipated that it should be 1 hour each week. (Reminder: current Work with Childrens Check will be required—Ann, bulletin editor).
Youth—Lily C
Welcome to Haru, our Japanese exchange student, who will attend an orientation camp in Beechworth for inward and outward bound students this weekend. We are still seeking candidates for the RYLA program, so pass on any names to Lily. School Bursaries and Ruth Konig Scholarships will again happen at end of year.
Foundation—Tony.
David Anderson summed up his recent “Road Trip” with Mark Anderson, visiting club meetings and information sessions in 9790 (Heidelberg, Seymour, Shepparton, Albury, Wangaratta and Benalla) addressing 205 of our 9790 members, to raise awareness of projects run by Foundation and encourage increases in donations.
Membership—Tony
We plan to embark on a membership drive during 2024, and suggested members canvas networks to create interest.
International—Tippy
We now have 3 schools with established English Speaking Corners in Thailand, which completes our objective. Tippy has put forward the suggestion that we could assist vision impaired students at special schools in Thailand.
Our International Night in 2025 will have a Thai/Japanese flavour!
Could we look at the possibility of hosting a RFE visit?
Garden Expo—Tony
We held a meeting tonight, and all looks to be on track! A roster will be made up to cover the 2 days and will be distributed in the next few weeks. There are still flyers to be distributed to neighbouring towns.
Treasurer—Gary
Financial Report for July has been completed and submitted to Board,
Julie will circulate this via email.
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Haru (our Japanese exchange student) and Sue Carpenter | Thank you Flowerdale Primary School for the delicious meal. The boys looked very smart in their white shirts and bow ties! |
Guest Speaker - Geoff Proctor, President of Alexandra RC.
Tonight Geoff introduced us to the joy of drifting along the Goulburn River with his Platypus Tours. Geoff has lived in the district for over 70 years and for the past 35 has run a tourism business, chartering tours down the Goulburn River, between Eildon and Molesworth, with the aim of platypus spotting! The rewards are plentiful, with these shy little mammals giving between 25—40 sightings each time the boat drifts along the river.
The Platypus has a lifespan of 16 years in controlled environments, but males 4 –5 and female 6—8 years in natural settings. They can dive, staying underwater for up to 14 minutes, and appear to have a territorial range of up to 1 kilometre on the Goulburn River, and up to 4-5 kms in smaller streams. Whilst the floods suspended breeding patterns, numbers have returned to pre flood sightings. The males are larger, with spurs on their back feet. Females feed their young by secreting their milk. Geoff monitors sightings and reports to the Australian Platypus Conservancy so that accurate tracking can be maintained. Each tour (drift) lasts approximately 2 hours and includes lunch. Contact Geoff if you are interested.
Tonight Geoff introduced us to the joy of drifting along the Goulburn River with his Platypus Tours. Geoff has lived in the district for over 70 years and for the past 35 has run a tourism business, chartering tours down the Goulburn River, between Eildon and Molesworth, with the aim of platypus spotting! The rewards are plentiful, with these shy little mammals giving between 25—40 sightings each time the boat drifts along the river.The Platypus has a lifespan of 16 years in controlled environments, but males 4 –5 and female 6—8 years in natural settings. They can dive, staying underwater for up to 14 minutes, and appear to have a territorial range of up to 1 kilometre on the Goulburn River, and up to 4-5 kms in smaller streams. Whilst the floods suspended breeding patterns, numbers have returned to pre flood sightings. The males are larger, with spurs on their back feet. Females feed their young by secreting their milk. Geoff monitors sightings and reports to the Australian Platypus Conservancy so that accurate tracking can be maintained. Each tour (drift) lasts approximately 2 hours and includes lunch. Contact Geoff if you are interested.
3 Minute Speaker - PP Tony Jacobs
Tony spoke in his role as Chairperson of the board of Blue Dragon, a not for profit charity who support disadvantaged street children, and rescue children from human trafficking and slavery in Hanoi, Vietnam. They provide food, clothing, shelter and essentials for families to reestablish themselves. To raise important funds for Blue Dragon, one of the staff members, Kim Miller, undertook the challenge of swimming the English Channel, from England to France, swimming the 21 miles in 13 hrs, 30 minutes, raising $115,000 in donations. A further $500,000 is expected to be raised by a marathon walk held each year.
Tony spoke in his role as Chairperson of the board of Blue Dragon, a not for profit charity who support disadvantaged street children, and rescue children from human trafficking and slavery in Hanoi, Vietnam. They provide food, clothing, shelter and essentials for families to reestablish themselves. To raise important funds for Blue Dragon, one of the staff members, Kim Miller, undertook the challenge of swimming the English Channel, from England to France, swimming the 21 miles in 13 hrs, 30 minutes, raising $115,000 in donations. A further $500,000 is expected to be raised by a marathon walk held each year.
Welcome Haruho (Haru),
Haruho is our exchange student who will be with us for the next 12 months. Haru lives in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Pref, with her mother, father and 2 cats. Some of her hobbies include dancing, playing handball, fishing, camping, hiking and star gazing. Haru is very excited to have been given the opportunity the exchange offers and is delighted to be in Yea. She is staying with the Dredge family as her first host family and will attend Yea High School. President Penny presented her with a club banner. Haru changed into costume and entertained us with a demonstration of traditional Japanese dance.
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| Haruho, (on right) with Tippy and Nakaiah, our 2023 outbond ex-change student to Denmark. | Thank you to Sacred Heart School for a delicious meal. Team led by Jane and Emma, with the assistance of very professional table waiters |
Guest Speaker — Bruce Anderson, National Manager of RAM —Rotarians Against Malaria.
A national activity of RAWCS—Rotary Australia World Community Service Mission — For zero malaria cases in indigenous partner countries Vision —To accelerate malaria elimination in partner countries (PNG, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, West Timor). Need to break the mosquito parasite cycle, where bites transmit the infection to humans. Basically: Avoid bites! Since COVID, we are losing ground against malaria, with flooding in Pakistan and Nigeria, climate change and temperature rising all aiding the spread of mosquito larvae, along with resistance to insecticides and medication, conflict in countries and invasive mosquitoes. Elimination strategies include the continuing release of new medications, distribution of bed nets, residual spraying, education, swamp drainage, continuing research. Funding is always a challenge, with dwindling donations from Rotary Clubs, some global grants have been sourced. We need to raise the profile of RAMs and reengage clubs. For further details—www.ram.rawcs.com.au
3 Minute Speaker — Bob Dewar
Bob has just returned from the Bendigo Sheep & Wool Show, the 20th show where Bob has worked with the finest cuts! Sadly, this year it was obvious that there is a lack of knowledge of how to prepare and cook meat at home. This is sad, particularly with the financial stress experienced in households at the moment. We need to educate, whether it be through schools, field days, or connecting with the older generation, what the different cuts of meat are and how the prepare and cook them. It seems that it is too easy to order take away meals.
Bob has just returned from the Bendigo Sheep & Wool Show, the 20th show where Bob has worked with the finest cuts! Sadly, this year it was obvious that there is a lack of knowledge of how to prepare and cook meat at home. This is sad, particularly with the financial stress experienced in households at the moment. We need to educate, whether it be through schools, field days, or connecting with the older generation, what the different cuts of meat are and how the prepare and cook them. It seems that it is too easy to order take away meals.
Thank you, Yea Primary School students and parents. The meal tonight was delicious!
Guest Speaker—Robert Gardiner, Environment & Community Liaison Officer, FERA Aust.
In line with both Federal and State Government policies to re-duce fossil fuel power, FERA Aust are currently in planning stage for further development of wind turbines to the existing Cherrytree installation, with proposal of 99 turbines planned in the Ruffy or Strathbogie areas. To facilitate the turbines, access to the national grid is essential, and it is at this stage that land-owner meetings and public consultation meetings are being held, as access is required through private property for the high voltage lines. Current proposal is through the Black Range area. Robert spoke of the impact and costs of overhead wires or underground wiring, both having aesthetic challenges. Environ-mental impact studies are being undertaken, with erosion, emergency access, animals, pastures, traffic management and incidents of bird strike. Data shows that bird strike is extremely low when compared to damage done by feral cats and roadkill.Life expectancy and economics of infrastructure were raised as concerns, with Robert quoting 25 years to 40 years with refurbishment of generators and other parts.
Robert answered questions as he spoke, with much interest from both members and visitors ensuring a lively discussion.
Julie spoke on the essential ingredients for longevity, along with science to ensure good health -
Positive outlook on life
Social connectedness
Productive member in the community
Julie cited an article in a weekend magazine of two friends, 99 & 100 years, who were friends in primary school and by chance have been neighbours for 74 years, still living independently!
Julie commented that Rotary has filled these connections for her, with many activities and friendships gained through Rotary Exchange, Friendship Exchange visits, including the recent visit to Thailand with Tippy and David and the opportunity to visit the English Speaking Corner in action at a primary school
Guest Speaker - Gerry Laws, Secretary of the Alexandra Timber Tramway and Museum Committee.
Gerry spoke of the preservation and promotion of tramways. In 1907 the first sawmill was built in the Rubicon Forest. 
The dependence on road transport proved unreliable in winter and in 1912 a two-foot gauge steel railed line from Rubicon to Alexandra was completed. Three small steam locomotives operated on the line until 1935, when due to the risk of fire, they were replaced with diesel engines. The Timber Tramway is a nationally accredited registered charity entirely operated by a small group of passionate volunteers. The lease with the Murrindindi Shire Council is currently being negotiated but it is expected that it will be handed back to the Alexandra Timber Tramway & Museum Committee by the end of the year (after 14 years of negotiation!). The museum is open to the public twice a month and since 1986 has attracted approx. 80,000 visitors, who as well as enjoying a unique experience are also educated about local history. The goals of the group are to: improve the site, expand the network of track and secure funding to preserve the historical items. Funding is always a challenge, but the committee is confident of sustainability.
The dependence on road transport proved unreliable in winter and in 1912 a two-foot gauge steel railed line from Rubicon to Alexandra was completed. Three small steam locomotives operated on the line until 1935, when due to the risk of fire, they were replaced with diesel engines. The Timber Tramway is a nationally accredited registered charity entirely operated by a small group of passionate volunteers. The lease with the Murrindindi Shire Council is currently being negotiated but it is expected that it will be handed back to the Alexandra Timber Tramway & Museum Committee by the end of the year (after 14 years of negotiation!). The museum is open to the public twice a month and since 1986 has attracted approx. 80,000 visitors, who as well as enjoying a unique experience are also educated about local history. The goals of the group are to: improve the site, expand the network of track and secure funding to preserve the historical items. Funding is always a challenge, but the committee is confident of sustainability.3 minuter David Anderson (in Tippy’s absence)
David showed a video of the English Corner program at Chiang Rai school in north-ern Thailand. Chiang Rai, the 3rd school where the EC project was introduced was slow to roll out the program but as evidenced by the video, has now embraced the program. Teddy bears which featured in the video were donated by Gaye Garlick of Yea.
David also spoke of ‘Ando’s Road Trip’ – he and Mark Anderson (Rotary Foundation Major Gifts Officer) are visiting a number of clubs in the district to provide Foundation information, including at the RC of Seymour dinner meeting of Monday July 29th Yea members are invited to attend the Royal Hotel Seymour, on the 29th for a ‘Christmas in July’ themed evening.
David showed a video of the English Corner program at Chiang Rai school in north-ern Thailand. Chiang Rai, the 3rd school where the EC project was introduced was slow to roll out the program but as evidenced by the video, has now embraced the program. Teddy bears which featured in the video were donated by Gaye Garlick of Yea.
David also spoke of ‘Ando’s Road Trip’ – he and Mark Anderson (Rotary Foundation Major Gifts Officer) are visiting a number of clubs in the district to provide Foundation information, including at the RC of Seymour dinner meeting of Monday July 29th Yea members are invited to attend the Royal Hotel Seymour, on the 29th for a ‘Christmas in July’ themed evening.
