Latest News

VISITORS FROM ROTARY MUDGEE

It’s always great to have visitors and last week Rodger Howard, President of Rotary Mudgee and his wife Kate were in town.
Please see our latest Bulletin about some of the excellent outreach their club is involved with.
 
 
 

LIFT THE LID ON MENTAL HEALTH

October is the month Rotary focuses on mental health.
Rotarians from Preston were delighted to be invited to the Rotary Club of Altona’s “LIFT THE LID ON MENTAL HEALTH” held at the Korringal Golf Club.
 
Preston’s Youth Director, Gerry Lyons writes
“ From acknowledgement of country to DGEPeter Shepard, RCL Graham Roper followed the guest speaker Dr Lachlan Kent, speaking about Mental Health, set the scene for an awesome night of fun, laughter and fundraising.
Rotarians from Williamstown and elsewhere attended as did Preston Rotary with President Wayne O’Neill, Elaine Price, Peter Peyton, David De La Coeur, GMan and an apology from Geoff McIlvenna and Ruth McCall.
Raise the hat helps bring awareness about Mental Health.
Thank you to President Lenore Thornton and Vice President Jan Douglas for making us welcome.”
 


 

 

THE ALL IMPORTANT FUNDRAISING BBQ!

Yes, our brave team soldiered on through one of Melbourne’s coldest and miserable-ist ( is that a word??) day last Saturday.
All funds raised through our monthly BBQ’s are channeled to the many great organisations who are doing amazing work locally and more broadly. Our thanks to our wonderful Rotarians and friends who diligently cooked the snaps- and for our stalwarts who set up and packed up after a long and busy day!!
 


 
 

ENVIRONMENT & CONSERVATION

         The ongoing work of the ‘Merri Paddle’ to which we are part of, continues as we spent the day at various sites along the Merri Creek taking water samples. We are looking for evidence of Platypus presence in the creek by sampling water for Platypus DNA ( E- Dna), Pesticide monitoring, water quality- turbidity, ph, Oxygen, and other factors.
It was well coordinated ( as usual ) by Julia Cirillo from Merri Creek Water Management. This is a great collaboration with Friends of Merri Creek, Merri Paddle members, Rotarians from our club, Pascoe Vale, Moreland, Environmental Science students from Uni Melbourne.
 
 

 

MERRI CREEK CLEAN UP

Julia Cirillo from the Merri Creek Water Management Committee facilitated the Clean up with great efficiency, and gave this  summary of the day.
“The windy weather didn’t put off this hardy crew. Last Saturday afternoon, close to 30 participants of all ages, joined Rotary and Merri Platypus members picking up litter at one of our monitoring sites on the Merri Creek in Coburg. Over 2000 pieces of litter, totaling 31 kgs, in 10 large bags were removed from the area, That’s 2000 less pieces  of rubbish ended ending up in the Yarra and the ocean! Bags of appreciation to these wonderful volunteers. The top 5 items of litter collected were: soft plastic pieces1213, hard plastic pieces( eg broken lunch boxes) 208, polystyrene pieces, 153, aluminium cans- 30, plastic bottles-28. Nearly all items are made from plastic. The tally from our event will be added to the LitterWatch Vic portal https://www.litterwatchvictoria.org.au/  “
 
         There’s something to be said to be part of an event that not only contributes positively to our environment, but brings together community. Rotary clubs Preston, Moreland and Pascoe Vale are delighted to be part of the Merri Paddle, and look forward to future collaborations.
 




 

Ahmed Kelly ParaOlympian Champion! 

So good to hear of Ahmed kelly's Silver medal for the 150 metre individual medal in the Paris ParaOlympics. 
Known and loved by Rotary Preston, Ahmed demonstrates time and again great courage and dignity. His comment after his initial disqualification is typical of the man.  "The reason surprised me because I've been to 4 games and they couldnt get it right for some reason..... They make mistakes. Officials are human. We put that behind us and tried to put a real good race om tonight." 
 
 

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Our Environment & Sustainability committee are actively participating in the aims of the “Merri Paddle” a group who eagerly want to see the Platypus return to the Merri Creek. So many reasons, namely poor water flow, pesticides, pollution, lack of vegetation, erratic storm water flows, domestic pets, all mitigate against the Platypus.
The excellent ‘Merri Paddle’ are working with Deakin University to conduct a series of water turbidity and pesticide tests monthly for the next 6 months.
We recently participated in a Pesticide monitoring campaign along various sites  along the Merri Creek. Data will be collated and analysed by Deakin Uni, and this will provide valuable information on the health of the creek.
 






 

THE MERRI CREEK CLEAN UP

THE MERRI CREEK CLEAN UP – sadly, a necessity, is coming up this weekend. We will be out in Coburg and along with community volunteers,  Merri Creek Water Management’s Julia Curillo will take the opportunity to give volunteers some insight into the aims of Merri Paddle.  Rotarian Ruth will provide some home baked goodies at the conclusion of our clean up.
It’s encouraging to see also local primary schools actively taking part in Merri Creek clean ups. What a great way to educate our young ones on the impact of environmental degradation!
 
 

AU- REVOIR JADE!

         Our wonderful French exchange student Jade gave a great overview of her time here in Melbourne. Over the past 3 months Jade’s host family have “pulled out all stops” to create a memorable experience for Jade. Jade shared slides of some of the iconic tourist venues she visited, including Healesville Sanctuary, the Great Ocean Road, Botanic Gardens Light Show, Melbourne Museum,  to name a few.
     Jade’s experience at her host ‘sister’s’ school, Santa Maria College in Northcote, was also a fresh and unique time, forming new friendships, and marveling at Australia’s relatively “slack” school hours compared with France’s. ( in France attendance hours are from 8am to 6pm.
      We hope too  that Jade gained an appreciation for the culture and ethic of Rotary Preston, and we were delighted to be her host Rotary Club.
     Merci, and Bon Chance Jade!
 
  
 

END POLIO

Many Rotarians around the world are aware of the targeted “END POLIO” campaign that has been in progress for some years. The roll out of vaccinations, and teams of Rotarians volunteering in vulnerable communities to assist with vaccinations  is testament to the dramatic reduction of POLIO globally.
      It is sobering to hear that POLIO now has been detected in war- devastated Gaza,  where medical care, hygiene and health has been totally stressed to the limit. Just goes to show how vital ongoing vaccinations and universal access to health care is in preventing what should be a preventable disease.
Meanwhile…. Rotarians from District 9790 are invited to take part in vaccination trips to Agra India in October 2024, and in 2025. See below.
 
 

ANOTHER GREAT CIRCUS QUIRKUS FOR 2024!

      Rotary Preston’s Wayne O’Neill, who for many years has coordinated our club’s participation in this annual event was clearly delighted with this year’s effort.
Wayne writes,
“ Rotary Club of Preston’s Circus Quirkus  was held on the 18th & 19th August at the Heidelberg Town Hall in Ivanhoe.Aproximately 2600 attendees witnessed a magnificent performance of entertainers over 6 showtimes. Three shows on the Saturday and three shows on the Sunday. Our Rotarians came out in force to provide assistance with wheelchair attendees. Guidance to venue seating and controlling those children who may have been a little over excited by the performance.
One attendee in particular a young girl had never missed a show in 15 years. Her father stated “the show is the highlight of her year.”
To Rotarians that attended President Wayne provides a huge thankyou. In particular Joe and Julie Morris, and Barbara & Peter Gilbert who provided their assistance at the 6 shows.”
 
 

MERRI PADDLE- LOOKING AT WAYS TO RESTORE THE ( NEAR) ENDANGERED PLATYPUS TO THE MERRI CREEK

  • AUGUST 31st – 2-4PM MERRI CREEK CLEAN UP !!!
Rotary Preston’s Peter Byrne and Ruth McCall were joined with Rotary Pascoe Vale’s President Heather Harris in a recent coffee catch up with Merri  Creek Management Committee’s Julia Cirillo.
We are planning a MERRI CREEEK CLEAN- UP! Yes, sadly, these are much needed, and “every little bit helps” as they say to reduce litter in our beloved waterways.  Julia’s guidance here is excellent and her expertise  in “Citizen Science & Education, as  Water Watch Coordinator, and Water Testing is invaluable. More info to follow, but the 2 hours will be an opportunity to clear and sort litter- document the quantity and types of litter, and for Julia to speak on the aims of Merri Paddle and the how  community can take responsibility for what goes into our water systems.
 
 

RIMERN- ROTARY INNER MELBOURNE EMERGENCY RELIEF NETWORK- UPDATE

This excellent ROTARY service to community and to people in desperate need for household furniture, whitegoods, and essentials,  to set up a home is a great outreach to be a part of. Rotary Preston along with 20 other Rotary clubs, and some wonderful community volunteers  support RIMERN by way of contributing financially, providing volunteers  ( and there are a variety of voluntary roles) , sourcing and collecting donated goods… you name it. Careful and diligent management by a small but committed team, ( shout out to Susie Cole, Roz McMaster, David Gorman, JO Connelly, Jo Press, and others ) keep this operation going most efficiently. Year to date, 378 households have been assisted, and most in our region are single parent families, or single folk who have just been allocated public housing, or, they  may be women escaping domestic violence. Demand is growing all the time as more Welfare agencies are becoming aware of RIMERN’S great work.  
         If you are volunteering in a client- support role it is very rewarding to meet with clients who often state how incredibly grateful they are that such a service exists at no charge to them. All are treated with dignity, and allowing clients  to choose what they want/need for their home is  a great thing.
Donations- financial- or by way of household furniture/goods are very welcome!
https://rimern.org.au/ 
  
 

NAIDOC WEEK 2024 -NATIONAL ABORIGINES’ AND ISLANDER DAY OBSERVANCE COMMITTEE

         Naidoc Week in July of each year is indeed a week where we celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It seems that momentum is gathering and it’s great to see more widespread participation  throughout Australia.
This year’s NAIDOC theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud, and Proud.”
“The theme celebrates the unyielding spirit of our communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced. It invites all Australians to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected.”
Rotary Preston crossed the Yarra to support our fellow Rotarian, Gerry Lyons who emceed the Flag raising ceremony at St Kilda Town Hall.
Rotarian ( Preston) Gerry Lyons has long been a strong voice for First Nation’s Peoples, and has worked for  many years in the First Nations Media industry.
     Bunurong Elder Mark Brown gave a wonderful ‘Welcome to Country’ and led the audience through an interesting and detailed description of the significance of the Smoking Ceremony  unique to country.
      The Flag Raising of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island flags were unfurled by Torres Strait Islander, Fred Gesha, and Bunurong Elder Aunty Jackson. Mark Brown played the Yidaki during the flag raising, and it was truly beautiful.
 
  
 

 
 

CHANGING OF THE GUARD!

The delightful Wayne O’Neill, long time member of Rotary Preston, was inducted as our 2024-2025 President on June 26. Wayne has for many years  been a primary resource and contact for our major fundraising arm and coordinator of the annual Circus Quirkas event for families with children living with disabilities. Wayne, and his lovely wife Debbie, were joined with their  four children as we celebrated a busy and rewarding 2023-2024 Rotary year under the guidance of outgoing President Kannan Subramanian. Wayne’s compassion, integrity, and laconic personality, will be a great asset to “team Rotary,” and we are really looking forward to the gifts he brings to the role.
 
 
  
 
Outgoing President Kannan Subramanian has juggled his Presidency with a demanding career in Real Estate.  Recently, he and his wife Vandana celebrated the birth of their first- born, Ishita!  Kannan has quietly, and conscienciously guided the club in yet another busy Rotary year.  A highlight he described was laying a wreath  on Anzac Day at the Dawn Service. He found this, and the service to be an emotional experience.
Kannan has always been warm, present to all his members, and ready with a smile and encouragement to all. On behalf of the Rotary Club of Preston, we thank Kannan ( and Vandana) and wish them, and baby Ishita happiness always.
 


IT IS WITH SADNESS… that we learned that our lovely member Carla Finocchiaro’s dear friend, Ivo Martin passed away. Ivo enjoyed attending Rotary meetings and functions, and we enjoyed his company too. All of our club extend heartfelt sympathies to Carla, and Ivo’s family. R.I.P. Ivo.

 

FINAL CLUB AND BOARD MEETING

Final club and Board meeting for the Rotary 2023-2024 year with the excellent Kannan Subramanian as our President. 
Great work Kannan!
 


 

PEACE FELLOWSHIPS

Applications for a Rotary Peace Fellowship for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open. Rotary offers fellowships for 2 courses: A Masters degree in Peace & developments studies, and postgraduate diploma in peace & development studies
 
 

JACOBS WELL TRIVIA NIGHT MELBOURNE BOWLING CLUB

Preston Rotarian Joan Roose, a founder of Jacobs Well Foundation enthusiastically invites interested parties to attend this important fundraiser. All funds raised will go to supporting the school in Orissa, India, and the important role it plays in educating and housing children in rural India.
 

 
 

The Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network ( RIMERN)

The Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network ( RIMERN) is an exciting multi- Rotary Community and Environmental Project going from strength to strength.
Super organised by a dedicated band of Rotarians,  and ( hats off Susie Cole, Ros McMaster, & David Gorman to name a few!)
 It  is immensely satisfying to assist people in dire need  in furnishing their newly acquired homes. RIMERN is always looking for volunteers to keep this excellent community outreach growing.
RIMERN’s Website and Facebook page are great “go- to’s” for more information! Have a look people!!  https://rimern.org.au
 
 

 

CITY OF DAREBIN HOSTS VOLUNTEERS EXPO

Representing the Rotary Club of Preston, Chris Shields and Ruth McCall had a ball talking to members of the public in the wonderful space that is the Intercultural Centre in Preston Town Hall, Along with about 20 other organisations who  do fantastic work in the community, it was an opportunity to showcase some of what we do. It was also a chance to connect with the other groups represented and explore ways in which Rotary might be involved, or indeed arrange to have them visit our club meeting in the future.
      We really hope that Darebin Council will hold more of these forums, and that this will be well advertised to the public!!
 
  
 

CHILDREN FIRST FOUNDATION – “CREATE  HOPE IN THE WORLD!”

We have been reminded  by Honorary Rotarian, and past CEO Children First Foundation,  Margaret Smith, of the complex dynamics that this excellent charity undergoes in arranging  surgery for children and teenagers. A young woman recently arrived in Sydney from war- torn Gaza is awaiting assessment for difficult surgery that we hope will be life- changing for her. The reliance on both the medical expertise and good-will from Australian hospitals is paramount for this to proceed. All at Rotary Preston await for further news, and we hope we can assist in a very practical way to support this young woman and her family.
Our Rotary 2024 motto “Create Hope in the World” is so apt!
Watch this space!
 
 

3KND RADIO

Great to have Rotarian and General Manager of First Nation’s Media, Radio 3KND Gerry Lyons aka G- Man  back in the fold recently.
Gerry & Nadia Lyons tirelessly work to promote Indigenous music, arts and issues, and it is fantastic to see they have finally got their mobile broadcasting van now in operation.
            Gerry and team were recently broadcasting live from the Tamworth Country Music Festival, and weekends are a non- stop with so many Indigenous events the team covers.
No- one can say they wont see this van on the road. It is COLOURFUL!!  Go G- Man!!
 
 

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Great to have our club’s  Chairperson of E&C- Peter Byrne attend the Merri Paddle meeting recently.

Merri Paddle is a local group with a mission:
“to lay the foundations for the eventual return of the platypus to Merri Creek, by working with existing organisations to promote restoration of the creek, with a focus on reversing the damage done by Urban Stream Syndrome.”

The platypus which is listed as a near threatened species on a national level has many challenges to its environment, namely, urbanisation, chemical & litter pollution, erratic water flow from storm water drainage, climate change, inappropriate housing development…. the list goes on.
Merri Paddle is planning to conduct further field work this year in  the Merri Creek habitat- including water quality testing,  DNA sampling of  specific sites in   Abbotsford, Nth Fitzroy Coburg and Northcote.
 
Interestingly, in a recent Guardian report, a  24 year old Platypus was found ( alive) having been tagged as a one year old in the Monbulk Creek precinct. This is the oldest platypus found in the wild. Research into Platypus Conservancy is expensive and rare, but since 1994 hundreds have been captured and tagged in the Melbourne area.
Director of Australian Platypus Conservancy states  “ its remarkable that this animal is still doing as well as he is after all these years.”
 
It’s fantastic to see the work Merri Paddle, and Platypus Conservancy are doing for this much loved Australian icon. We look forward to exploring ways in which our Rotary Club of Preston can help!!!
 
 
 

COMMUNITY POLICE AWARDS

The atmosphere at our recent club meeting was warm indeed when we welcomed members of Reservoir, Preston and Northcote Police at our 12 Annual Community Police Awards.
 
     P.P. Elaine Price coordinates this event each year enthusiastically, and it’s a great opportunity for us as a club to express our grateful thanks to all who serve with Vic Pol, always very much “at the sharp end” of whatever life throws at them.
Elaine noted, “ this year both the winner and Highly Commended of the Commuinity Police Award are working tirelessly in the Family Violence Sector.
 
A much needed response by the police is necessary to combat violence in the home and work place. Having good FV police policy, compliance, reporting and follow through is the mainstay, in order to help direct and support the victim and perpetrator to break the cycle with harm minimization.”
 
      We congratulate Detective Sergeant Julie Gasparin, who was Highly Commended for her innovative work and dedication as Community Engagement Officer at Reservoir Police Station.
 
“ Julie is a police representative supporting women, children, First Nations and various community networks…. Her tireless commitment in building these relationships and her role in driving organizational change ensures police practice demonstrates understanding and culturally appropriate service delivery to impact this over- representation.”
 
The Winner of The Rotary Club of Preston  Community Police Award was Senior Sergeant Jakki Poustie.
 
“Sr Sgt Jakki’s tireless work as a Family Violence Liason Officer at Northcote Uniform sees her use her subject matter expertise in managing the Family Violence portfolio to an exceptionally high standard. Jakki uses her experience learnt as a specialist FV Prosecutor with Queensland Police prior to joining Vic Pol. ….”she looks to adapt and improve police policy in response to FV and is not constrained by historical practice, and seeks out identifies shortcomings, and forwards her recommendations back to policy makers who can make real change in this space.”
 
The specialized duties performed by Snr Sgt Poustie and her dedication to this role is integral to encourage reporting and minimize trauma experiences of victims and familes during the police response and break the cycle of violence impacting our diverse community.”
As per tradition, Rotary Preston awarded Snr Sgt Poustie with  $500  for her to nominate to a charity or cause of her choosing. This years recipient was Police Legacy, and Lex De Mann from Legacy gratefully accepted it, noting it would go towards helping 60 children attend a camp at Airlie Beach.
 
 

 
 


RIMERN ( Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network)

RIMERN, located in East Brunswick, has kicked off 2024 in their usual efficient and well- coordinated fashion, providing much needed furniture and house- hold goods to extremely vulnerable people escaping domestic violence for example, or folk who have been homeless , or may be newly released from prison.

( See more in our Stories section)

Rotary Preston is a member club of RIMERN and hence contributes financially each year, as well as offering volunteer support. We have directly helped clients in setting up their new homes, and this is a powerful experience.
We encourage any Rotarian to get involved- in what is a wonderful environmental and community outreach.
 
 
 
 

Yarra Me  Primary School

Co-Principal of Yarra Me  Primary School, Jonathan Stone, describes his school as a “marriage between health and education.”  Located in Preston, Yarra Me is a school “that exclusively supports students with significant social and emotional challenges.” Children with complex trauma, ADHD, and Anxiety, for example are referred to Yarra Me because it is aims to provide immediate support and direct access to Paediatric, Psychology, and Speech Pathology services to support individual students to achieve learning and wellbeing outcomes.
Dr Anna Bortoli, Consultant to the team, highlighted  the critically long waiting lists for so many families to access these services via the Public Health System. Recent funding to Yarra Me from the State Government, and collaboration with the Royal Childrens Hospital is facilitating these services to be offered directly to the school .
      Yarra Me’s vision: “we are deeply passionate about being champions for positive and respectful relationships, inclusive learning, and building relationships”
The Rotary Club of Preston’s Community and Youth Service Committees were delighted to donate $3000 towards this essential service.
 
 

FUNDRAISER TAKAYNA/TARKINE WILDERNESS

Dr Shervin Tosif is a Consultant Anaesthetist at the Austin Hospital. Shervin is participating  in a grueling 62km ultramarathon to raise money to help preserve the Takayna/Tarkine Forest.
 
In Shervin’s words,
“The Takayna/Tarkine Wilderness is one of the last remaining truly wild places on the planet.
It is easily the most beautiful place I have ever been. It is forest that belongs to all Australians.
Takayna is under constant and unrelenting threat of destruction from unprofitable native forest logging and shortsighted irresponsible mining.
Not just that, Takayna has a large number of Aboriginal heritage sites and is home to endangered species such as the Tasmanian Masked Owl and Tasmanian Giant Freshwater Crayfish.
This wilderness needs formal protection to prevent its imminent destruction, along with countless known and undiscovered species of plants and animals.
This year I’ll be running an ultramarathon through the forest for a third time to raise money and awareness of its protection, because we are not there yet.
Support us to save Takayna!”
 
 
 
 

AHMED KELLY- PARA- OLYMPIAN

Ahmed is well known to Preston Rotarians. Bringing together 4,400 of the world’s most outstanding Paralympic athletes , the Paris Summer Games 2024 is set to take place over 12 magical days from 28 August to 8 September 2024.
 
    “Preston’s” Ahmed is well into his training while members are helping member, David De La Couer get his finances together. The overall price for training, travel and competing is heavy; around $30,000. David reports there is still a need of a few biggish contributions. ( $8000 in total) David is keeping his flippers on!
 
 

DARBY WILKES- INSTANT ITALIAN FRIENDSHIPS!

Darby sent this shot of her joy of life in Italy. This is the last month of the Italian autumn and she is making the most of it! Hers is a short form of the Rotary Exchange Student Program ( 3 months) but a marvelous experience.

The program is a magnificent opportunity for a student to experience a foreign culture, adapt ones lifestyle for a short time and learn to move out of one’s enclosure for a set space of time. In short, a most enriching experience for both the student and the club.
 

BBQ FUN!

Saddling up to monthly Bunnings BBQ’s as part of our necessary fund raiser to support our great causes  is often a bit of fun.
 
We braved the howling wind as it swept through the carpark last Saturday, and some of us needed an extra hug to stay warm.
 
 
 

Bon Voyage Rotary Exchange Student Darby Wilkes

An excited Darby joined the club for our annual “Lift the Lid on Mental Illness”  ( & wear a crazy hat!) Day recently.
Darby is bound for Italy for 3 months where she will be hosted by recent Rotary Youth Exchange student Asia Cirillo and family.
Darby is a fabulous young woman, a dedicated sportswoman, and fine ambassador for Rotary.
We wish her all the best for a great experience.
 

Lift the Lid on Mental Health and Silent Auction

Raising much needed funds for  Mental Health via  Australian  Rotary Health this annual event is always supported enthusiastically by Rotary Preston.
Rotarian Joe Morris did a terrific  job in organizing and collating goods for auction and we thank him most sincerely.
Thanks to club members who donated funds.
 
 

Massive Murray River Paddle Event.

This event will go ahead in 2024, and over a 5 day period 415 kms will be paddled by enthusiastic paddlers! Darebin Police are supporting  12 Indigenous youths to participate as a way of building positive relationships in the area.
Rotary Preston presented Senior Constable Peta Williams with 100 hygiene packs donated by Honorary Rotarian, Kate Austin from Pinchapoo.
Present on the day was First Constable Andrew Moreton, and Aboriginal Liason Officer, John Brown.
 
 

Food Forrest at the Thornbury residence of Yooralla’s VASS ( Ventilator Accommodation Support Service)

The “vibe” was warm and bubbly as Rotarians from Preston joined volunteers and friends of the Global Gardens of Peace recently in the near -completion of the  Food Forrest at the Thornbury residence of Yooralla’s VASS ( Ventilator Accommodation Support Service)
  • We planted, mulched and watered numerous plants, herbs, and trees in beautifully landscaped terrain. Global Garden of Peace President and Landscape Architect Andrew Laidlaw, has done an incredible job in his design and management of the Food Forrest, and was on hand to direct us on the day.
Sue Stevenson, husband of the Late Gerard Stevenson, whose vision this was,  together with one of their sons Zac, proudly took part, and one can only imagine now poignant it was to see Gerard’s dream come to fruition.
This has been a truly beautiful project to be part of- even in a small way. A great reason to be part of the Rotary family!!
 
 
 
 

Some Food for Thought – Saying NO to Plastic Bags Does Matter!

Frances McChesney — September 22, 2023
 
Since we’ve been publishing our blog, we have received some interesting questions memes, and comments. This meme with Colombo has recently been circulating on Facebook and got us thinking.
One way to answer Columbo’s question is to decide it’s pointless to worry about plastic bags, given all the other plastic in the grocery store and to give up making a difference.  The other way to answer that question is to continue to say NO to the plastic bags AND to keep using alternatives to plastic whenever you can.  You can easily find non-plastic alternatives to the milk – old-fashioned paper cartons (which are compostable too by the way); the napkins – use cloth or order from some of our favorite sites; the salad – make your own; the mustard and the ketchup – buy them in glass jars.  Even small changes add up to big differences in our plastic use.
Why does it matter?
Even if you just say NO to the plastic bags and keep using those other plastic containers, you will make a difference. (Not that we are suggesting you do that!!) Plastic bags make up an extraordinarily high percentage of the plastic waste that ends up in the ocean.  The National Geographic Society estimates that there are more than one trillion plastic bags in the ocean (1,333,333,333,333 plastic bags equals 8 million metric tons of plastic). 
An organization in the United Kingdom estimates that more than 1 million plastic bags end up in the trash every minute.  The world uses 500 billion plastic bags a year.  This equals 150 bags per person, that’s kind of crazy! Have you ever noticed that most of the trash on the streets and highways is plastic, and most of that plastic is single-use plastic, and most of that single-use plastic are plastic bags?  If plastic bags are so essential, why do they get thrown away?  When we McSisters say no to plastic bags in the stores, we think we may have just saved a sea turtle or kept microplastics out of our bodies.   
All this plastic keeps harming our environment and our health:  One in three fish caught for human consumption contains plastic.  100% of baby sea turtles have plastic in their stomachs.  
Just think:  If just one in ten people stopped using plastic bags, the difference to the environment would be enormous.  It’s easy to make a difference. 
What can you do?
Say no to plastic.
Use alternatives to plastic. . . bring your own bags, cutlery, cups, bottles etc.
For napkins and other paper products not wrapped or shipped in plastic, check out the many companies and refill stores that sell alternatives. Here are a few favorites: 
Who Gives a Crap donates 50% of their profits to clean water and sanitation non-profit groups. https://us.whogivesacrap.org/collections/all
The Grove Collaborative (https://www.grove.co)
Reelpaper (https://reelpaper.com/)
Read more about plastic pollution and impacts of plastic bags:
https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/ocean-trash-525-trillion-pieces-and-counting-big-questions-remain/
https://www.iucn.org/resources/issues-brief/marine-plastic-pollution
https://www.condorferries.co.uk/plastic-in-the-ocean-statistics
 
TELL YOUR FRIENDS!! 
SHARE OUR BLOG!! www.mcsisters.org
 
 

PLANTING UP YOORALLA’S VASS ( VENTILATOR ASSISTANCE SUPPORT SERVICE) FOOD FORREST !!

This Friday, 29th September Rotarians will be joining volunteers and friends of the Thornbury VASS from 10am to 12 midday as this GLOBAL GARDEN OF PEACE project comes to fruition.
An exciting project to enhance the lives of residents living with severe Spinal injuries, this green habitat will be a place of nurture and  beauty.
 
WHERE? 335 Clarendon St Thornbury
WHEN: Friday 29th September, 10am to 12 midday
BRING: gardening gloves, closed shoes, sun protection.
MORNING TEA PROVIDED
 
Rotary Preston were very pleased to donate to this project, and lend a hand in stage 1 planting. A community and Environmental outreach of our club.
 
 
 
 

Darebin clean-ups

Since Environmental Sustainability has become a much needed focus for Rotary, our club has actively participated in local intensive tree/shrub plantings in the Darebin area and
“clean- ups” along the Merri Creek corridor.
This much loved creek precinct is a precious habitat for wildlife, but sadly, chemical pollutants, storm- water run- off, litter, and damage to the habitat by unleashed dogs hugely impacts the area.
Rotarians from Preston and Pascoe Vale joined Friends of Merri Creek, Friends of Bracken Creek, and Darebin Council in a mass shrub- planting in Northcote recently.
Close to a thousand indigenous shrubs were planted, and it was fantastic to be part of such a positive and energetic morning’s work.
Our thanks to Darebin Council’s Ben Smith and Alisa Rudd for their excellent organization of this event.
 
 

 

‘The Merri Paddle’

Environmental concerns are real & present as we all know. Rotary Preston’s Environment Committee have recently linked in with ‘The Merri Paddle’- a committed community group looking seriously at how the Merri Creek can be improved to encourage the return of the Platypus into this 70 km tributary of the Lower Yarra River.
Merri Paddle hosted an excellent l “Roundtable” morning recently where representatives from Melbourne Water, Local Councils, & Environmental Scientists gave a comprehensive overview of the issues at stake.
Rotary Preston look forward to collaborating with Merri Paddle in the future.
https://www.friendsofmerricreek.org.au/merri-paddle.
 
 
 

Ahmed Kelly

Ahmed Kelly is a Para-Olympian Gold- medalist. Undaunted by being born without arms, Ahmed has a beautifully positive world- view. Well- known to Rotary Preston because of our close association and support for the Children First Foundation,( Ahmed was adopted by
Founder, Moira Kelly,) Ahmed visited our club meeting recently, sporting his recently acquired Gold medal for his win in the Men’s 150 m Individual Medley in Manchester England.
Ahmed’s advice to Rotarian exchange students, Asia Cirillo and Darby Wilkes,- both highly motivated Swimmers, was to “prepare with a positive mindset, and relax!”
 
 

COMMUNITY CAR RAFFLE- ROTARY CLUB OF MOOROOPNA

At the club’s invitation, Preston Rotary has decided to participate in the upcoming Mooroopna Community Car Raffle, to be drawn New Year’s Eve 2023.
Tickets are $5 each; a book is $20 ( 5 tickets)  Tickets available from September 20. 60% of club sales return to the club.
 

LATEST NEWS

Wow! What a busy time for our Rotarians! Over the past few days our dedicated Rotarians have been Barbecuing frantically to raise much needed funds to support all the amazing organizations both locally and abroad.
 
Team Preston have been on deck at the fabulous Thornbury Theatre  for Circus performances given by the amazing Circus Quirkas.
 
 
Circus Quirkas offer a contemporary take on your traditional circus. Acrobats, clowns, and Artistes delight so many families, - many of them with “special- needs” children. Sponsored by Victorian businesses, these shows are offered at no charge. A beautiful way to “give back” to the community!
 
 

Foodbank delivery to Reservoir Neighbourhood House

  • Every Fortnight our club delivers a truck- load of donated food from the Footscray Foodbank warehouse. It involves picking up the truck from Footscray- loading & unloading at the Neighbourhood House, and returning the truck to Footscray.
  • Well over 150 families benefit from this service, and the team from RNH report that demand just continues to spiral. We are proud of our contribution- and our thanks go to the dedicated team from Preston who makes this all happen. 
A great reason to be in Rotary!!
 

 

LATEST NEWS

Rotary Preston Website Ed has been on leave over the past few weeks
Please see our latest Newsletters for updates on Club activities and Speakers.
 

NAIDOC 2023

What a week it was! NAIDOC- National Aborigines’ and Islanders’ Day Observance Committee rolled out an amazing week of honouring and  celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Rotarian Gerry Lyons, aka G- Man, member of Rotary Preston was front and centre, along with his fantastic team from Indigenous Radio station 3KND broadcasting live at many events. Immediate Past President Ruth McCall was present at a number of events; a highlight ( for her)  was watching the NAIDOC march along Nicholson St Fitzroy to Federation Square. The enthusiasm, pride, and joy was palpable!
    Numerous exhibitions, art installations, concerts, ceremonies….. it was a rich week indeed celebrating First Nations’ Peoples.
 
 
 
 

FIRST MEETING FOR THE 2023-2024 ROTARY YEAR WITH PRESIDENT KANNAN SUBRAMANIAN

Always a question,- “is the microphone ON!” & yes, Kannan was wired for sound as he hosted our first Rotary Meeting for 2023-2024 year.
We held a “Brainstorming” time – looking at ways we can enhance our Rotary experience, while attracting new people to our club.
A numbers of ideas were shared, and Vice President Paul Smarrelliwill carefully tally up suggestions and distribute them to members in the coming week.
We have much to celebrate and acknowledge that we are an active & relevant body. AND we need to spread the word!
 
 

ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE

It’s great that we are sponsoring incoming short- term Youth Exchange Asia Cirillo who arrived from Italy over the weekend. Asia will be living with host family Darby Wilkes and her mother Faye Richards, and will attend Darby’s school, Our Lady of Mercy College in Heidleberg. Darby will leave for Italy in October for 3 months and stay with the Cirillo family.
It was lovely to meet Darby, her Mum Faye, and Dad, David at Changeover Night.
We look forward to having both Darby and Asia come to our next Club meeting on the 12th July.
( below on Left Asia Cirillo, & on RHS Darby Wilkes with 2022-2023 Youth Director Elaine Price &  outgoing President Ruth McCall
 
  
 
Below ( photo of Youth Chairperson Elaine Price, Darby Wilkes, and parents David and Faye.
 
 

ROTARY FOUNDATION CONGRATULATES MAJOR DONORS PETER & BARBARA GILBERT

Past District Governor for District 9790, and Past President of Rotary Preston ( twice), Peter Gilbert, and his lovely wife Barbara were roundly thanked by all at the Club Changeover Night as District Foundation Chairperson David Anderson presented them with their Level 2 Major Donor pins, pendants and trophy.
 
As David noted, “Contributing to the Rotary Foundation is a personal choice as is giving to any charity. The Rotary Foundation Trustees are extremely grateful to all Rotarians who make the Foundation their charity of choice or one of the charities to whom they make a donation during the course of the year. Major donors change the lives of children, young people, adults in communities and in the wider world….”
Peter and Barbara who contribute so much of themselves to Rotary are tireless in their “giving” – not just ( and significantly!) in their financial donations to the Rotary Foundation, but in Rotary service. We too at the Rotary Club of Preston thank the Gilberts, for all that they continue to bring in the life of our club and yes, to so many others.
Congratulations Peter & Barbara!!!  ( pictured David Anderson and his wife Tippy, Peter & Barbara Gilbert)
 
 
Congratulations also to Elaine Price, ( PHF 4 Sapphires)  Tim Weir ( PHF 1 sapphire)  , for their Paul Harris Recognitions, and to Shanice Abdelerhedrim, and Pete Sambell for being admitted as Paul Harris Fellows for their outstanding service to community!!
( pics below Elaine Price, Tim Weir & David Anderson, Shanice & Pete)
 
    
 

ROTARY CLUB OF PRESTON VOCATIONAL AWARDS

Each year our club presents these awards totwo students at Melbourne Polytechnicrecognising significant achievements in their vocational field or workplace, achievementsthat demonstrate outstanding qualities, dedication and commitment to the job or their studies.
 
The Bernie & Peter Lamers Building and Construction Award- was awarded to Eric Lucietto. Eric’s Dad, Gianni,( also his employer) accepted the award on behalf of his son. Program Leader of Engineer & Wet Trades, Grant Collis, and Brian Sandl, on behalf of Melb. Polytechnic  spoke of Eric’s ability in his field of work.
 
The Paul Josephson Hospitality Award- named after former well- loved and hard- working Rotarian, Paul Josephson, was awarded to Melanie Buntine. Staff members Gaetano Gentile and Anura Jayasuriya from Melb Polytechnic spoke of Melanie’s great work ethic and achievements in the field. A cheque of $500 was presented to each awardee on behalf of Rotary Preston.
 
 
 

FAREWELL CEO RESERVOIR NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE ANGIE DAVIDSON

After 12 years of dynamic innovation and leadership the much- loved Angie Davidson is moving on. Rotary Preston has had a long- standing and close relationship with Angie and the excellent team at RNH. It is a Neighbourhood House that oozes warmth, welcome, and good energy,- all fostered by Angie and team. Speeches at the event were from Local Preston M.P. Nathan Lambert, who spoke about the interesting history of housing development of Reservoir from WW2. President of Rotary Ruth McCall spoke of the respect and deep fondness our club has with Angie, highlighting her leadership during the Covid Pandemic lockdowns. RNH Chairperson, Rowena, spoke of Angie’s huge work ethic going well beyond a 9- 5 day job. Others joined in with lots of applause, flowers, hugs and tears as we celebrated the wonderful Angie.An outstanding highlight too was the traditional Maori ritual of honouring and respect, delivered passionately by Rotarian, and GM of Indigenous Radio Station 3 KND.Not a dry eye in the place! We all wish her the very best for the future.
 
 

News

Your friendly Editor has been a bit busier than usual of late. Please refer to our latest Bulletins for all the latest news.

 

VASS: Ventliator Accomodation Support Service: Thornbury.

Fantastic News! The first planting of garden beds is taking place Tuesday 23rd May.
  • Under the guidance of Global Gardens of Peace President, Andrew Laidlaw, this is indeed GOOD NEWS.
  • Supported by Friends & family of VASS residents, Yooralla, and…many good people who have kept the dream alive to create a “Food Forrest” and green habitat for residents who live with so many challenges. And  yes, the Rotary Club of Preston has had a part to play.
  • Join us on Tuesday- BYO gloves, 11am.

 

FUNDRAISERS!!!

RIMERN
Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network has launched a u- beaut fundraiser to help with warehouse rental and all expenses associated with operating such a wonderful outreach.
Select & sip from 8 great wines:
 
  • Adelaide Hills 2022 Sauvignon Blanc
  • Barossa Valley 2021 Chardonnay
  • Victorian Sparkling Prosecco
  • Adelaide Hills Sparkling Shiraz
  • Yarra Valley 2021 Reserve Rose (vegan)
  • Coonawarra 2020 Reserve Shiraz
  • Coonawarra 2019 Reserve Cabernet
  • South Australian 2020 Cabernet Merlot
  • South Australian 2020 Shiraz
 
For all the tasting notes and to order please click here:
 

Stand with Somalia

Sainab Sheikh, President of the Rotary Club of North Melbourne has established a wonderful foundation supporting Somalia. Somalians have lived with Civil war, Drought and famine for over 20 years. Please support this great fundraiser and purchase your tickets!!!
 
 

President Aparna Sunku, and husband Sunku Radesh Kumar visit

Great to have President Aparna Sunku, and husband Sunku Radesh Kumar visit from Coimbatore Smart City Club, India recently.
Bringing colour and vibrancy, Aparna updated the club after her last visit to us in 2022. Her club has successfully been granted a Global Grant in assisting women with Cervical/Breast Cancer. They fund a Pet Crematorium, which, may sound odd, but with so many people who cannot afford to have their beloved pet cremated, this is such a humane project. The Club provides thousands of kits for children to test for Juvenile Diabetes. And there are still plans to get the Environmental project  which we hoped to contribute to, to plant 30,000 trees in otherwise barren land.
 

Anzac Day 2023.

Such a powerful day always, and at All Nations Park Northcote our club were out in force, attending the Dawn Service, and providing a “Gunfire Breakfast” of freshly cooked egg and bacon rolls. 400 in fact! This has been a service provided by our club since 2013, the brainchild of much loved Rotarian Paul Josephson, who sadly passed away several years ago. Paul’s wife Pauline gave us a willing hand, and Rotarians were setting up the tent well before 4 am. All hands were on deck,and though hard work, it was incredibly satisfying.   It was wonderful to hear some beautiful readings, poems, songs and reflections as the Dawn broke and we reflected on the dreadful loss of life, and ongoing trauma experienced by so many who have lost loved ones through war.
…… The wonderful setting of All Nations Park made for a memorable ritual of rememberance, along with the participation of many.
Lest We Forget.
 
  
 
  
 

Newest member Pete Sambell

How fantastic it was recently to induct our newest member Pete Sambell. Pete is well known to our Rotary Family- a terrific friend to us all. Pete's long & devoted service in the Police Force is full of compassion and empathy to all - especially for ethnic communities. Pete always puts in the "hard yards" when it comes to community activities- such as dismantling playgrounds which are being shipped to countries in need.  Pete already is a great Rotarian and we welcome into our club.
 
  
 

Another busy week for Rotary Preston.

  1. We assisted a local fellow move house by equipping him with a full truckload of household furniture generously donated, and collected by RIMERN- the Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network  ( rimern.org.au )

  2. PP Julie Morris & President Ruth McCall attended a great workshop facilitated by PDG 9800 Keith Ryall. The theme- “STORYTELLING”- how do we tell the excellent ROTARY GOOD NEWS STORIES!
    - We took away some helpful tips, and this will feature in an upcoming meeting so all members can learn from it.
     
  3. FOODBANK FORTNIGHTLY- to the Reservoir Neighborhood House- stalwarts, Geoff, David, Joe, Gary, Max, Peter Peyton obtain a truckload of food from the FOODBANK in West Footsgray & regularly deliver to the RNH. So many people doing it tough,and this is a drop in the ocean, but it all helps! Thanks to the great people of our club, and to the amazing team at RNH

        
     
  4. ROTARY DOWNUNDER- the excellent quarterly magazine featuring both local and international ROTARY news is especially poignant right now. The front cover ( see photo) shows the harsh reality of communities in Turkiye and Syria devastated by the Earthquake. Rotary’s response is inspiring.

     
  5. Baby Joseph Morris is fascinated by Secretary Geoff! Lovely to have Julie & Jo Morris’s newest Grandson attend our meeting, with his mother, Ruth.

     

Peter Lamers RIP

We were deeply saddened at the news of the death of Peter Lamers. Peter was a dear friend, and hard- worker who had a “heart of gold.” Sadly, Peter died from complications of a heart attack, far too young. Comments from fellow Rotarians included…
 “ “Basically Peter managed the Children First Foundation ( Retreat in Kilmore) mowing and gardening. He had his way of doing things and always worked using his talents, and despite our occasional differences he was always good fun.…..”
 
“ …..Give him a job to be done and it was done. Learning from his Dad, he was capable with any tool even to driving equipment to repair a dam wall at Kilmore. He enjoyed his mates and was very loyal to them all….”
 
“ He was a great human being. He had his ways but he had a big heart…..”
 
“ a wonderful spirit of generosity….”
 
“ some people come through your life and they touch you very deeply….. some people fly under the radar and they don’t blow their own trumpet… that was Peter.”
 
RIP Peter Lamers. Our heartfelt condolences to Gerry, and all the family.
 
   
 

VISITORS TO THE CLUB

It was wonderful to have Honorary Member of Rotary Preston, Margaret Smith, ( Deputy Chairperson Eva Tilley Memorial Homes, Patron & Chairperson of Lamers Foundation Board,  & Noel Baker, Member of Rotary Southern Mitchell, and generous benefactor  to the Children First Foundation share in our “Remembering Peter Lamers” time recently.
Both Noel and Margaret shared some of their memories of Peter adding to the rich spirit of the occasion.
We thank them both for joining us.
 
 
 

DARDI MUNWURRO (Strong Spirit) 

Based in High Street Preston “is a specialist Aboriginal family violence service…. ( their vision is to) “Build stronger families and safer communities by delivering a range of family violence programs to break the cycle of inter-generational trauma in Aboriginal families and communities.”

It was a powerful experience to visit Dard Munwurro recently, together with the Rotary Club of Eltham. Senior Sergeant Mark Van- Rooyen from the Reservoir Police Station was also in attendance, and his aim was to  invite discussion with the men to find ways of building bridges between Vic Police & First Nations’ People.
     The Rotary Clubs of Preston and Eltham cooked up a BBQ, and following open and respectful conversations between the Police and the men present, it was great to share lunch together. Meeting Founder of Dardi Munwurro, Alan Thorpe, and some of the Elders was inspiring. What wonderful mentorship and fellowship Dard offers to folk who have been through tough times.
    We look forward to learning more.
   

 

CELEBRATION OF PRESTON RAILWAY OVERPASS

A community event to celebrate the engineering feat of the Preston Railway station was held recently, and Rotary Preston were invited to cook 800 sausages as “give- aways” to the public. 1200 sausages later, we tiredly packed up, after a day of music, lots of fun, and a rich spirit of camaraderie.
  
 

BBQ

While some of us have been enjoying the delights of our wonderful coast- line this Summer, (President Ruth) a number of our stalwarts in the Rotary Club of Preston have been doing a great job- raising much needed funds via BBQ’s at Bunnings for the many worthwhile causes we assist. Even in searing heat in mid Jan our workers raised nearly $2000. Terrific effort!
 

Jacob’s Well Foundation

Rotarian Joan Roose whose Jacob’s Well Foundation https://www.jacobswell.org.au which provides clean water and Education for Children in poverty is a cause close to the Rotary Club of Preston’s hearts. Over January, some of our members & friends banded together to clear office equipment  & furniture to be shipped over to India via Rotary’s Donations In Kind. Another fantastic effort!
 

Children First Foundation Gala Ball- is coming up!

The Children First Foundation is another organization close to our hearts. Providing children the means to be flown to Australia for highly specialized Paediatric Surgery, supporting their families and providing important respite and rehabilitation, the annual fund- raising Gala Ball is a great event. Always inspiring, is to hear directly from Specialist Surgeons what they are doing to save the dignity and lives of otherwise impoverished families.
 
 

RIMERN ( Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network

Is going from strength to strength.
It really is inspiring to know that all  donated household goods are going directly to people who desperately need them. Volunteering with RIMERN brings immense satisfaction. There are no- ‘Middle- men”- no one is profiting by this excellent Rotary venture- like all things Rotary- all efforts are voluntary, and people in desperate need are being assisted by having their homes furnished.
RIMERN’s fundraiser of a mixed dozen bottles of wine is a much needed source of funds.
Please purchase if you can!!
 

 

Uphold the Right - Community Police Awards.

“ See under ‘Stories’ the wonderful women were were ‘Highly Commended’ & ‘Winner” of the 2022/2023 Annual Community Police Awards
 

Coming up: 30th November:  Club Visit to Community Radio Station 3KND.

Rotarian, Gerry Lyons, aka "G- Man" is the General Manager of 3KND, and he & his team will be showing us around this hard- working station.  We will meet at KND @12:30, and we'll have a bite to eat while we're there.
 
 

 

JOE MORRIS

Genuine care & support for our members is a hallmark of our club. If we know someone is not travelling all that well, be it health, emotional stress, we reach- out. Rotarian Joe contributes much to our club, and is often first cab off the rank to help with any of our
community outreach.
Recently recovering from BIG surgery, Joe surprised us by turning up at our regular Wednesday meeting.
We couldn’t pass up the opportunity to present Joe with some BIG balloons, especially since it was his Birthday too!
GO JOE!!
 
 
 

MENTAL HEALTH MONTH

The Focus on Mental Health this month has been across all sectors- & Rotary Clubs throughout the world do great work in raising awareness and funds for Mental Health.
The theme,” Building Resilience with Communities & Connection” readily feeds into what Rotary is all about. Mental Health Authorities cite that Mental Health has worsened dramatically with the impact of the Covid pandemic, and is still being felt.
Quick tips to improving mental health:
Get a good night’s sleep
.engage creativity
. stay hydrated
.limit media coverage doom & gloom
. exercise- doesn’t have to be aerobic or punishing- walking daily or more, for example.
Last week our Rotary club had a ‘playful’ meeting. We all wore silly hats- & the mood was one of optimisim and hope for good things to come. We were joined by several members of the Reservoir Probus Club, and it was great to have them.
Rotarian, Joe Morris collated many items of sports memorabilia over past months, and a Silent Auction was held on the day, yielding well over $1200- all which is going towards Mental Health.
 
 
 
 

VACCHO: Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation

FLOOD RELIEF DRIVE: Based at 17-23 Sackville St Collingwood, VACCHO are collecting warm clothes, childrens clothes, toiletries, insect repellent, jackets, jumpers… to distribute to flood affected families in regional areas.
VACCHO have their own delivery trucks & Volunteers.
Please drop off donated items to the above address.
Go to their website https://www.vaccho.org.au for further info.
 
Rotary Preston are delivering many boxes of new jumpers/jackets sourced from Donations In Kind Warehouse, and 500 Toiletry packs to VACCHO. Good to see we in the city can be of help.
 
 

"Fall in love with the Earth again!"

"Fall in love with the Earth again!" .... & how! Our Environment committee were keen for our  Rotary club  to  visit this beautiful urban farm in the heart of Melbourne's north. For some of our members who had not had the "Ceres experience" it was magical!
 
ceres.org.au -" Ceres is an environmental  education centre, community garden, urban farm, & social enterprise hub spread across four locations linked by the Merri & Darebin Creeks in Wurrundjeri country Melbourne." 
 
Our visit was to the East Brunswick location, with a wonderful guide, Chloe, whose passion for the environment & sustainable solutions was very evident. It  was inspiring to hear how Ceres engages community in fostering connection to the earth. Beautiful produce all meticulously farmed organically, - just a feast for the eyes!  Lunch at the Merri Cafe was delicious, and some of us couldn't resist shopping in the organic grocery store, and nursery at the end of our tour. Folks.... "do yourself a favour" & get down to Ceres.
 
    
 
 
 

Improving Darebin’s Biodiversity!

Our third planting session this year of Indigenous tube- stock at the Ray Brahbam gardens in Preston. Ben Smith, Manager of Environment & Sustainability is passionate about improving the Biodiversity to our urban landscape. Green spaces are vital, & by “re- wilding” our landscape we can respond at a local level to the global challenge. Nearly 400.000 Indigenous plants have gone into the earth. Rotarians, Pat & Heather from the Rotary Club of Pascoe Vale, joined Preston Rotarians recently in planting 1000 of these little beauties! Such a great feeing!
 
  

 

SOCIAL NIGHT

A fantastic night was had by all- well we think we can safely say that! It was wonderful to meet up with the President of Coimbatore Smartcity Rotary Club, Aparna Sonku, all the way from Tamil Nadu, India. Aparna is visiting Melbourne briefly, and we thoroughly enjoyed her company. Great food, wine was flowing, and we all agreed we were overdue to enjoy a good old knees up!

  

  

 

Pathways to Employment Grants : Inner North Community Foundation

Rotary Preston greatly admires & supports the work of Inner North Community Foundation. Attending the ‘Pathways to Employment Grants’ recently highlights the innovative approach the Foundation has to removing barriers people face on their journey to work. Foundation Chair, Carolyn Phiddian writes: “ This year celebrates the start of a new partnership between the Darebin, Moreland & Yarra City Council, the Inner North Community Foundation and IntoWork Australia to address disadvantage through employment opportunities in the inner north of Melbourne… This year 10 community organisations across Darebin, Morleand & Yarra will receive a grant of $20,000.. We all have a role to play- business, not- for- profit, & individuals – in supporting local communities to thrive.,,Our communities are much more resilient and caring as a result. Some of the projects included: Free to Feed: Commercial Cooking Training & Employment, Sisterworks Inc, Resilience & Wellbeing to Employment for CALD Women, CERES: Green Gap Year, & many more. Wonderful stuff!!

 

“How to Thrive”

a powerful documentary recently was shown at the Westgarth Cinema: a fundraiser to aid the Merri Outreach Support Service; MOSS. This film will be on general release later this year. The harrowing stories from people describing their struggles with mental heath may trigger issues for people who are dealing with their own challenges. MOSS CEO: Mark Goodie noted: for the Homeless, many folk live from pay week to pay week.
Mental Illness features alarmingly for those who are homeless, and MOSS as an organization are constantly looking for ways to garner support for those experiencing Homelessness. MOSS Ambassador Uncle Jack Charles opened the night and referenced the turn- around in his own life when he was assisted in being housed in permanent accommodation. Housing stability meant he found a way through drug addiction to finding meaning & purpose in a wonderful career in acting & Indigenous advocacy.
 
.It’s important to take action around our own mental health
.Thriving is a learnable skill!
.Early intervention is key- as it gets harder to treat mental illness as it evolves
.Mental Illness doesn’t respect job titles!
THRIVING: can be helped by: Caring for one’s self
Exercise is important
Connect with Nature
Connect with other people
Focus on things which are good: life enhancing
We all have the ability to thrive in spite of struggle.

 

Global garden of Peace

The Excellent Sue Stephenson, visited Rotary Preston recently. Sue gave an inspiring talk to our club several weeks ago regarding the planned Global garden of Peace, for the Ventilator Accommodation Support Service home in Thornbury.
She highlighted an upcoming Film Night & Fundraiser at the Thornbury Theatre: more details to follow shortly.
 
 

Changeover Night

A big week for our club this week as we celebrate “Changeover Night” on Wednesday 6th July, where we farewell outgoing President Chris Shields, and welcome 2022-2023 President, Ruth McCall.
Chris has had a challenging year with months spent in lockdown in 2021, thus curtailing face- face meetings, and the fellowship that we always look forward to in that space. Zoom meetings continued the momentum however, and enthusiasm remained strong. Chris assiduously guided us  throughout that time with his usual sensitivity and warmth. In his Induction speech last year, Chris noted, “For my club I want our club to continue being an ageless club that it is. A club where age does not matter. Where people of all ages are drawn to join us in our quest to make a better world A better word locally, a better world nationally, a better world internationally.” We thank Chris most sincerely for his Presidential year, and for all his work in providing “Service to Save Lives.”
 
  
 

UKRAINE CRISIS APPEAL

The ongoing humanitarian disaster & destruction of Ukraine is wreaking havoc, and great trauma to that country. Many Rotarian Clubs, as is our club  are getting behind Ukraine, and actively supporting them with financial & material aid.
For more information to donate: https://Ukrainecrisisappeal.org/
Every little bit helps! 
 
 

INVITATION to The Rotary Club of Preston 2022 - 2023 Changeover Dinner

Wednesday 6 July 2022
 
Celebration of President, Chris Shields 2021 - 2022 Rotary Year Induction of Incoming President, Ruth McCall 2022 - 2023
 
 

ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD  ( RYLA)

The RYLA ( Rotary Youth Leadership Award) will be back this year – the first since 2019. RYLA is an intensive program for people 18-30 years old and will be held for the week 20th-26th November at the Doxa Youth Foundation Camp Site in Malmsbury.

        Rotary Preston is keen to support & sponsor applicants, and assist in transport to the Kilmore, where participants are then taken by bus to Malmsbury.
 
      RYLA gives participants the invaluable space to reflect on themselves,  to develop leadership skills, & develop self confidence  The program brings together a selection of experts in their fields to deliver topics and interactive sessions. It’s an opportunity to make connections with others, and have fun!
 
      Formal and technical skills are only part of the requirements for modern employees. RYLA works to develop ‘soft skills’ and personal attributes that are shown to be just as important to success. The values of these soft skills are outlined I a recent report by Deloitte Access Economics & Deakin Co.
 
    RYLA gives young leaders and emerging leaders the opportunity to serving their own communities and beyond.
 
For more information : http://www.ryla9790.org.au
 
  
 
 

RESERVOIR NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE FOODBANK

Another busy month for our club, and its been great to welcome some visitors to meetings.
 
Reservoir Neighbourhood House Foodbank support continues, with Rotarians assisting with the fortnightly delivery of much needed food. Angie Fay, CEO of RNH described demand for assistance with food & hygiene products as being “overwhelming”. For the month of March alone, over 1300 families were assisted with food donations.
 
 

ROTARY YOUTH DRIVER AWARENESS, ( RYDA)

 

RIMERN  ( Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network )

Volunteers from Rotary Preston will be lending a hand at the Brunswick East Warehouse in the coming week. A wonderful outreach to assist those in crisis in setting up home with a large range of good quality donated goods.
 
Donations of goods & $$ for RIMERN are very welcome!

 

FIRST NATIONS STATEMENT FULLY ENDORSED BY OUR CLUB.

Rotary Preston deeply values contributions by First Nations Peoples, and encourages their membership.  Member Gerry Lyons, GM of Indigenous Radio Station 3 KND continues to give us great insights into the challenges, resilience and creativity that makes up  Indigenous communities. As a club we proudly endorse our First Nations Statement, recently ratified by club members.