Report on Rotary Alexandra’s Voucher Scheme.
Ian Gibb, Treasurer, Rotary Alexandra 6th February 2026
Rotary’s voucher system was implemented to:
• Provide a cash for those adversely affected by the recent fires.
• Give them some dignity and choice about how they use the vouchers.
• Support local businesses, which we knew would also suffer a loss of trade.
It is funded by public donations. The donations have been generated through social media postings, local advertising and word-of-mouth use of contacts of members of the club. As of 5th February we had received $34,626 in donations. Donations are still rolling in. All of this money will be distributed.
Our Bank Account details are; Rotary Club of Alexandra
National Australia Bank-Alexandra BSB 083 503 60663 0744
Voucher distributions have occurred using three mechanisms:
1. Our own $50 and $100 vouchers are being issued to fire victims on request. They are not means tested but we do try to provide more support to those in most need. As of 5th February we had issued 298 Rotary vouchers with a face value of $19,700. These are redeemable at participating local businesses.
2. Before our own vouchers were ready to go, Rotary purchased $2,000 worth of Simpsons Fuels vouchers. These were mainly distributed to CFA volunteers in the early days after 9th January.
3. Rotary has an arrangement with Endeavour fuels for Endeavour vouchers. For each $1,000 that Rotary pays towards vouchers, Endeavour contributes another $500. So far we have issued 101 Endeavour vouchers with a face value of $6,500.
The total value of vouchers issued so far is $28,200.
As vouchers are redeemed, we have been making payments to local businesses.
Rotary has also provided support to other businesses in Alexandra for coffee and food for firefighters ($2,800) and protective clothing ($500).
The Rotary voucher system has been very well received by the public and by local businesses, as illustrated by the quotes* below:
• “I can understand why we need physical donations but they cause problems for businesses like ours. The Rotary voucher system works well for us. It puts money back into the local economy.” Paul Sheehan, The Grain Store.
• “The Rotary vouchers are working really well for us and our customers.” Pam Coulson, Alexandra Tyrepower.
*Note: Rotary has been given permission to use these quotes.