Stories


Business excellence award 2025 Business Excellence Award Nominations 2024 Nominations are now open! We are excited to announce the opening of nominations for the 2024 Business Excellence Awards. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding businesses in our community that demonstrate excellence in various areas. Criteria for Nomination: 1. Local Workforce: The majority of the workforce should come from the local area. 2. Innovation: The business should demonstrate innovative practices or products. 3. Quality of Service: The business must provide exceptional service to its customers. 1. Business Information: • Business Name:* Phone Number: • Business Address:* Email Address: • Contact Person: 2. Nominee Details: • Describe how the business supports the local workforce: (e.g., number of local employees, training programs, community involvement) (max 200 words) • Explain the innovative practices or products of the business: (e.g., new technologies, unique services, creative solutions) (max 200 words) • Provide examples of the quality of service offered by the business: (e.g., customer testimonials, awards, service standards, photos) (max 200 words) • Why do you believe this business deserves the Business Excellence Award? (e.g., impact on the community, business growth, sustainability efforts) (max 200 words) 3. Nominator Information: • Your Name: • Your Contact Information: • Relationship to the Business: • Deadline for Nominations: 31St January 2025 • Submit Nominations to: Helen Gibb (Secretary) helengibb1953@gmail.com • Winner announced 1st March 2025 at Dindi Daze Thank you for participating in recognizing the outstanding businesses in our community. Your nomination helps highlight the hard work and dedication of local businesses that contribute to the vibrancy and success of Alexandra. all correspondence to: po box 76 alexandra 3714 Victoria helengibb1953@gmail.com President: Geoff Proctor All correspondence to Secretary: Helen GibbP.O. Box 76 Treasurer: Ian GibbALEXANDRA 3714	Business excellence award 2025	Sharen Robinson	2024-12-10 13:00:00Z
School student awards 2024 Primary Encouragement and Year 12 Citizenship awards. Primary awardees chosen by their school receive financial assistance of $500 is awarded to the student to provide encouragement and assistance in the move from primary to secondary schooling. A cheque is sent to their nominated secondary college towards the costs of school and book fees. VCE Citizenship awardees received a framed Certificate and a time piece. VCE Awardees Hattie Langley Hattie is a highly approachability person who has always represented the college values, Respect, Personal Best and Integrity, which made her an excellent choice as the 2024 Alexandra Secondary College School Captain. Hattie received the Principals Award for most Personal Bests in her Year Level in 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020. She is a person who looked for opportunities beyond the classroom. She was a member of the College’s and Rubicon Outdoor School’s Year 11 Leadership Program last year and starred in 3 School Productions. She also attended the state YLEAD conference last January with a group of ASC Year 12s. She was a Year 12 Committee member and a significant contributor in organising a very successful 2024 School Social for all ASC students. Hattie is also a community person who has volunteered at events like the Easter Art Show and the Murrindindi Shire “Volunteer Awards”. Hattie is an outstanding person in all respects. Ethan Hodge Ethan is a great person with a genuine sense of community and volunteering. As early as Year 7 and 8 he would frequently help the Eildon Primary School, his old primary school, planning events and helping to run them. In the Eildon Community he helps at the twilight markets and with Eildon Lions club. He assists at the Eildon Op Shop. The Murrindindi Cycle Club also benefits from Ethan’s giving spirit where he helps building and maintaining trails for the Eildon Mountain Bike Park. He represented VCE student voice at the College Open Night this year and spoke eloquently, informing and encouraging the new students and families to the VCE pathway. Ethan has strong leadership skills. He was a member of the College’s Yr 11 Leadership Program that partners with Rubicon Outdoor School. He attended the state YLEAD conference last January and was accepted into the International YLead program in NZ. Mr Nigel E Lyttle BSc, Dip.Ed Principal Alexandra Secondary College	School student awards 2024	Tom Farrell	2024-12-09 13:00:00Z
Rotary says no to domestic violence Australia Rotary clubs raise awareness and funds to prevent domestic violence and support its victims. By Rotary Down Under The statistics are sobering: Intimate partner violence is the most common type of violence against women, affecting 30 percent of women worldwide, according to a 2013 World Health Organization report. As many as 38 percent of murders of women are committed by an intimate partner. In New Zealand, a dozen women are killed by their partners or ex-partners each year. And in Australia, a woman is killed, on average, about every week. Recognizing the desperate need for domestic-violence services in their communities, Rotary clubs throughout Australia and New Zealand are fundraising and partnering with charities to raise awareness and work on prevention and victim support.	Rotary says no to domestic violence	Tom Farrell	2024-12-08 13:00:00Z
Dec 7 say no to domestic violence Support Alexandra Rotary BBQ outside Foodworks supporting the Say No to Domestic Violence Campaign.	Dec 7 say no to domestic violence	Tom Farrell	2024-12-06 13:00:00Z
Welcome Rotarian Chris Smith	Welcome Rotarian Chris Smith	Tom Farrell	2024-12-05 13:00:00Z
2024 Christmas Party Read more...	2024 Christmas Party	Tom Farrell	2024-12-05 13:00:00Z
Business Excellence nomination Business Excellence Award Nominations 2024 Nominations are now open! We are excited to announce the opening of nominations for the 2024 Business Excellence Awards. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding businesses in our community that demonstrate excellence in various areas. Criteria for Nomination: 1. Local Workforce: The majority of the workforce should come from the local area. 2. Innovation: The business should demonstrate innovative practices or products. 3. Quality of Service: The business must provide exceptional service to its customers. 1. Business Information: • Business Name:* Phone Number: • Business Address:* Email Address: • Contact Person: 2. Nominee Details: • Describe how the business supports the local workforce: (e.g., number of local employees, training programs, community involvement) (max 200 words) • Explain the innovative practices or products of the business: (e.g., new technologies, unique services, creative solutions) (max 200 words) • Provide examples of the quality of service offered by the business: (e.g., customer testimonials, awards, service standards, photos) (max 200 words) • Why do you believe this business deserves the Business Excellence Award? (e.g., impact on the community, business growth, sustainability efforts) (max 200 words) 3. Nominator Information: • Your Name: • Your Contact Information: • Relationship to the Business: • Deadline for Nominations: 31St January 2025 • Submit Nominations to: Helen Gibb (Secretary) helengibb1953@gmail.com • Winner announced 1st March 2025 at Dindi Daze Thank you for participating in recognizing the outstanding businesses in our community. Your nomination helps highlight the hard work and dedication of local businesses that contribute to the vibrancy and success of Alexandra.	Business Excellence nomination	Tom Farrell	2024-12-01 13:00:00Z
Dindi Daze Saturday March 1 2025	Dindi Daze Saturday March 1 2025	Tom Farrell	2024-11-03 13:00:00Z
Fun night at Rotary	Fun night at Rotary	Tom Farrell	2024-11-01 13:00:00Z
Devonshire Tea Alexandra and District Open Gardens. Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 October Don't miss out on the Rotary Club Of Alexandra devonshire tea at Noel and John McIlwraiths home. 15 Perkins Street Alexandra. Medium town garden and nature strip planting. Includes maples, ornamental pears, camellia hedge, roses, Daphne's, burgundy leafed loropetalums, oak leaf hydrangeas, moonbay nandinas, many hostas and hellebores. Georgie Lowerson also has a Craft Stall there. For further details about the open gardens go to alexandraopengardens.com.au	Devonshire Tea	Tom Farrell	2024-10-10 13:00:00Z
Repairing storm damage Removing storm damage from the 100 trees planted in 2005 to celebrate the centenary of Rotary International. The property where the trees and old woolshed are situated belong to Sharon Fox’s sister Rhyl and her husband Richard Long. Sharon is the "overseer". Richard was a charter member of RC of Yea and is currently a member of RC of Euroa.	Repairing storm damage	Tom Farrell	2024-10-05 14:00:00Z
Footy night with Seymour Rotary Footy night with Seymour Rotary. Quizzes, handball competition and lots of conversation.	Footy night with Seymour Rotary	Tom Farrell	2024-10-05 14:00:00Z
Lift the lid on mental health Lift the Lid on Mental Illness is Australian Rotary Health’s National annual fundraising day for mental health research. You can support this wonderful initiative by making a donation on World Mental Health during October at one of the many businesses in Alexandra with collection tubs. Each year approximately 1-in-5 Australians will experience a mental illness and in order to help future generations of young Australians, we need to look ahead through research and find out how we can prevent this type of illness occurring. Lift the Lid on Mental Illness aims to educate all Australians that no matter what 'hat' you wear, we are all affected by mental illness. We hope that Lift the Lid will promote the need for more research into mental health, improve social awareness of mental health issues and stop Australians from keeping mental illness 'under their hats'. Lift the Lid on Mental Illness is an initiative of Australian Rotary Health, one of the largest funding bodies of mental illness research in Australia. 100% of proceeds from Lift the Lid will go towards research into finding preventions, treatments and cures for mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and Alzheimer's.	Lift the lid on mental health	Tom Farrell	2024-10-05 14:00:00Z
Open gardens a wonderful experience. Open gardens a wonderful experience.	Open gardens a wonderful experience.	Tom Farrell	2024-09-17 14:00:00Z
Helping our community members Rotary Alex provided soup and a wonderful fire to warm up those who in attended the Murrindindi Community food share. The rain held off.	Helping our community members	Tom Farrell	2024-09-17 14:00:00Z
Protect Koalas Lyn Wallace-Greenberg accompanied by her partner Ken presented a thought provoking presentation on koalas. Lyn is a talented artist who has exhibited in our Easter Show, but her day job is Koala Conservation, including experience with WIRES in NSW, and CHART (Coffs Harbour Animal Rescue Trust). The modern koala Phascolarctos cinereus (grey bear) has evolved from 15 now extinct species of Diprotodontia, a family which includes wombats. Early koalas were much bigger than present day koalas. Koalas have hands and feet. Their hands have 2 opposable thumbs, which allow them to climb trees. They were almost hunted to extinction in the 1800's, when their pelts were sent to Europe to be made into hats. The greatest threats to the survival of the species are Habitat destruction through land clearing and urbanisation Climate change- causes more frequent bushfires, and a change of leaf composition in preferred food trees *Disease - chlamydia - causes infertility, and koala retrovirus (koala AIDS), cryptococcus (a fungal disease spread by inhalation) and sarcoptic mange. There is only one species of koala, but there are differences in size and colour between northern Australia (average adult weight 7kg, grey in colour) and southern Australia (up to 14kg and brown, with denser fur. Preferred diet - eucalypt leaves and flowers, also she-oaks and corymbia. They also ingest dirt as mineral supplement. Gestation period is short- only 35 days. The koala joey is born jellybean sized and makes its way unaided from the birth canal to the vertically opening pouch, where it attaches to one of two teats. It remains in the pouch to 5-6 months before graduating to belly-rider status, then back rider at 8 months . At 12 months, joey leaves mother. Pouch joeys under 6 months do not fare well if mother is killed, as they need to receive a dose of microbe rich 'pap' from her before leaving the pouch to develop their gut microbiome Life expectancy- male 12-13 years, female, up to 15 years. Adult males are very territorial, and noisy lovers. They sleep 18-20 hours / day, and drop about 300 poos (scat) , olive pip sized, each day. What can we do to conserve koala populations? Don't establish timber plantations in koala habitat. After harvest, it takes 25 years for new plantings to reach harvestable size. Conserve existing habitat and establish wildlife corridors. Koalas are at their most vulnerable when moving at ground level- to traffic on roads, and hunting by dogs. Do your bit to minimise climate change by buying locally sourced seasonal food (less transport, less packaging, less greenhouse gases). Contact local wildlife rescue if you see a sick koala. Narbieview Animal Shelter, or Healesville Sanctuary. Take care at night on our roads and slow down. Dogs and koala don't mix. A colorbond fence can be a deathtrap to a koala which drops into a yard with a dog. Consider leaning a plank against the fence as an escape route. Locally Upper Goulburn Landcare are trying to create a wildlife corridor by planting along GVRT to connect to Gobur. Manna gum, spotted and blue gums and Allocasuarina (she-oak).	Protect Koalas	Tom Farrell	2024-09-17 14:00:00Z
100 Trees 100 years Rotary repaired Removing storm damage from the 100 trees planted in 2005 to celebrate the centenary of Rotary International. The property where the trees and old woolshed are situated belong to Sharon Fox’s sister Rhyl and her husband Richard Long. Sharon is the "overseer". Richard was a charter member of RC of Yea and is currently a member of RC of Euroa. +2	100 Trees 100 years Rotary repaired	Tom Farrell	2024-09-17 14:00:00Z
Footy night with Seymour Footy night with Seymour Rotary. Quizzes, handball competition and lots of conversation. +6	Footy night with Seymour	Tom Farrell	2024-09-17 14:00:00Z
Let’s get rid of malaria Presentation by Bruce Anderson PDG Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM) was initiated in 1995. Partners include the WHO, Australian Army Malaria Research Institute, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, UN Global Fund, DFAT, Australian Volunteers International, and many more. RAM has been working in partner countries Vanuatu and Timor towards a vision of zero indigenous malaria. Areas of focus include PNG, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste and West Timor, next target is West Papua. One of the likely consequences of climate change will be an increase in the number of cases in northern Australia. Current incidence is about 400 cases/ year, all imported. The life cycle of the malaria parasite involves two hosts, mosquitoes and humans. The simplest way to avoid malaria is not to be bitten by the mosquito vector. And if you have been bitten, don't get bitten again! The gist of WHO's 283-page World Malaria Report is that hard-won progress against malaria is being undermined by climate change. Flooding in Pakistan caused a huge increase in the areas inundated, and in mosquito numbers. Nigeria experienced 1.3 million new cases in the reporting period. Rising temperatures have enabled malaria transmission in highland areas of Ethiopia and Uganda. Previously, in areas above 3000 metres altitude, mosquitoes did not live long enough for the malaria parasite to multiply while in the mosquito-hosted stage of their life-cycle. Other threats include resistance to insecticides and anti-malarial medicines. Anopheles Stephensi, a mosquito from the Asian Mekong Delta, is now established in the Horn of Africa. Post Covid there has been a $7.8 billion funding shortfall for malaria programs. How big is this problem? Globally, there are 249 million cases/year. Last year there were 600,000 deaths, 32,000 more than pre-Covid. 77% of deaths are children under 5 years old. How do we break the cycle of infection? -By working with governments and NGO's -distributing long lasting insecticide-impregnated bed nets (replaced every 3 years) -residual insecticide spraying of eaves (where mosquitos gather) -education of affected populations -engineering environments eg drain swamps to reduce mosquito breeding -rapid, accurate diagnosis and surveillance of cases. -effective treatment logistics -research Ph D scholarships to increase on-site knowledge. -If a village has a trained community health worker, then others can swing into action . What are the issues affecting malaria eradication? Funding -During Covid , donations decreased significantly, although external funding increased through global grants. Now, RAM must re-engage with Districts, Clubs, and grass-roots Rotarians. Partnerships at home and abroad must be nurtured and extended, with more hands-on volunteer teams, and a return to the Adopt- a village program. In Vanuatu there is an agreement with Australian Volunteers International for the posting of 4 long term volunteers. Solomon Islands has a 'Kick Out Malaria ' intervention program, while in PNG 100 mountain bikes have been provided for community health workers to travel more easily between villages. There will be a Promotion Booth in the House of Friendship at next RI international convention in Houston Texas. Malaria eradication is the next big project after Polio. At the Global Malaria Elimination Congress at Calgary, Canada next year, Jessica Mauboy will attend as ambassador for RAWCS. Vaccines are less effective for malaria than other diseases such as polio. There are currently 2 vaccines recommended for use in children in moderate-high transmission areas. They produce a 13% reduction in deaths, but MUST be used in conjunction with other control measures. This is a work in progress. The Malaria Vaccine Technology Roadmap is to ' develop and license malaria vaccines with a protective efficacy of at least 75% against clinical malaria in areas with ongoing malaria transmission.' Success Stories Indigenous malaria in Timor Leste has declined to 0 (zero) cases last year. Rotary can open doors which are closed to governments. Although the incidence of malaria has increased since Covid, the number of deaths from malaria have declined. Chair John Allcock thanked Bruce for his enlightening talk, and the RC Alexandra confirmed a donation of $1000 to RAM to further this important work	Let’s get rid of malaria	Melinda Jackson	2024-08-13 14:00:00Z
Supporting those in need Rotarians provided soup and fellowship to many members of our community on Thursday 1st August. It was freezing but we organized a great fire pit. The wood raffle raised $2,033.85 which was presented to Foundation Murrindindi to support Murrindindi Community Food Share. This operates from the rear of 88A Grant st Alex on the first Thusday of each month from 9-12.	Supporting those in need	Tom Farrell	2024-08-05 14:00:00Z
Helping our environment Looking after our environment. Josh Russell is an environmental engineer who has worked at Council for twelve years as Waste Management Officer after previous experience dealing with contaminated land. A few figures: 500,000 bins are collected in the Shire each year, and 40,000 customers visit the Resource Recovery Centres each year. Under the Local Government Act, Council has an obligation to 'Maintain a clean municipality'. Under the Health Act, they must 'prevent disease'. There are also responsibilities under the Environment Protection Act, and Circular Economy Act. Murrindindi is one of a handful of Local Governments which still run their own landfill and resource recovery centres - most are contracted out to private operators. Waste Management is a separate business unit within Council, which has its own income stream and manages its own expenses. They are responsible for the landfill, resource recovery centres and kerbside collections and waste education of ratepayers. Planning is well underway for a major project - the development of a new landfill cell in Alexandra which will cost $3 to 5,000,000. The service receives 12,000 tons of waste per year and 15 vehicle movements per day. The cell must be constructed to a high standard to manage leachate, odour etc. Local management of waste is the only viable option. Some larger suburban councils divert potential landfill to incinerators which are used to generate electricity. Four plants have been approved in Victoria. Leachate collected from our local landfill is transported to Melbourne for disposal. When the landfill is capped, it may be possible to catch and use the gas which is emitted. Budget for new cell: $3.4 million for the base, $800,000 in the next year, $6.5 million to cap existing cells, which must be maintained for a further thirty years.With an income of $2 million per year, this should be affordable. Once the project commences, site tours will be offered. The closed landfills at Kinglake, Eildon, Yea and the former Alexandra site all needed to be rehabilitated. Eildon had priority, due to its riskier location, and materials involved. $25,000 of metal was mined and recycled. Resource Recovery Centres: Alexandra is the busiest, followed by Kinglake. Some materials are problematic such as concrete, timber and polystyrene, mattresses and tyres - e-waste is free to drop off and should NOT be placed in general waste bin. The cost to council for recycling has increased from $50 to $100 per skip collected. $600,000 in landfill levy fees was collected last year and are expected to increase by 30% in the next financial year. The steel pile and Scrap Shack are very popular with customers and divert materials from landfill.	Helping our environment	Melinda Jackson	2024-07-12 14:00:00Z
Melinda Jackson awarded Paul Harris with Sapphire. Melinda Jackson awarded Paul Harris with Sapphire. A well-deserved award for a devoted member of the Rotary Club of Alexandra. Her efforts with Cycle Dindi over 8 years, wood cutting, Art Show director twice and President are just a few of her amazing contributions to rotary and our community. Photo President Geoff Proctor and Melinda Jackson.	Melinda Jackson awarded Paul Harris with Sapphire.	Tom Farrell	2024-06-27 14:00:00Z
2023 2024 Rotary Alexandra *COMMUNITY SERVICE REPORT* *Director 2023 – 2024 Ian Gibb* Thank you to the Community Service Committee (John Allcock, Tom Farrell, Noel McIlwraith, Geoff Proctor, Graeme Bylund, Anne Burns and Ros Humphries) and all the other members who have contributed to a very busy and successful year. The Community Service portfolio includes a number of club activities that have their own budgets and their own ‘champions’. As well as Rotary Alexandra activities like the Art Show, Music in the Park and Community Firewood, we also contribute to the activities of other community groups, including Cycle Dindi (where Yea Rotary does the bulk of the work) and provide labour and assistance for a host of other events like the Alex Show, the Rodeo and Cathedral Invitational. Activities for the 2023/24 year have included: Health and wellbeing: Lift the Lid/Hat Day – we distributed collection tins to shops in Alex for this Rotary project, wore silly hats on Hat Day and added $500 to the money collected from the CS budget. MDCancer Foundation (Kazza) – we donated $1,000 from the CS budget. We supported Indigenous Health Scholarships again, donating $500 through Aust Rotary Health. Music in the Park – once again Noel McIlwraith and her helpers made Music in the Park a success at Rotary Park in March. Music in the Park has become a showcase for local talent. It is well supported by the community. Cycle Dindi – took place in March. We helped to provide a gala day out for 150 cyclists. As well as great catering from RC Yea, Melinda provided her ever-popular damper. Easter Art Show – the Art Show was bigger and better than ever thanks to John Allcock and his hard working team. Australia Day – went ahead at Rotary Park on 26^th January, thanks to the initiative of Graeme and Jane Bylund and Maria and Malcolm Price. Carols – we helped Alex Events with Christmas Carols on 22^nd December. Playground dismantling – we helped dismantle a complete playground in Eildon. The equipment has been shipped overseas to disadvantaged children under the Rotary Overseas Playgrounds (RORP) program. Playground dismantling – we helped dismantle a complete playground in Eildon. The equipment has been shipped overseas to disadvantaged children under the Rotary Overseas Playgrounds (RORP) program. Sensory Garden (Alex Primary) – our biggest donation for the year was $5,000 to support the construction of a Sensory Garden at Alex Primary School. Jubilee Trees – we also donated $2,000 towards trees planted on the approach to Alex on the Maroondah Highway. Food vouchers for Ukrainians in Melbourne – this project changed direction during the year. We donated $2,000 in food vouchers through cooperation with RC Carlton but due to a change in housing arrangements, food vouchers became a less effective form of support for the Ukrainians. Community Service returned what remained of RC Euroa’s donation and used some of our remaining funds to send $1,000 to RC Kharkiv Renaissance for support of a children’s centre. Angel Flight - we donated $1,000 to Angel Flight, a great cause. Satellite Phone for Alex Hospital – together with Lions and the Vintage Car Club we bought a satellite phone for Alexandra District Hospital to provide emergency communication during power blackouts. Brazil floods – the committee has agreed to donate $2,000 through Rotary International. ‘Days for Girls’ – CS donated $500 to a program that helps educate and support girls in remote communities. Other donations – we also donated to Rotary funds ‘Shelter Box’, ‘Life’s Little Treasures’ and to ‘Starlight Foundation’ (support for children with serious illnesses). Car parking – The Cathedral Invitational golf tournament attracted almost 900 vehicles, which we parked. CGC appreciated our effort and donated $1,800. Firewood – The 2024 firewood season is well underway. So far this winter we have delivered 13 trailer loads to 10 households referred to us by Legacy, RSL, ADH and Menzies. The Beanie Festival helped to support the program with a cheque for $1,000. The ‘woodchucks’ also cut, split and loaded Red Gum from Sharon’s for the first wood raffle in May, with another to come in July. Alex Show, wedding parking, Beanie Festival, Christmas Tree Festival, Open Gardens, Rodeo - we helped to support all these events with labour or equipment. Rotary Alexandra continues to provide a strong presence in our local community and in the in bigger world of Rotary International. Ian Gibb Community Service Director	2023 2024 Rotary Alexandra	Ian Gibb	2024-06-25 14:00:00Z
scouts visit Rotary Rotary Alexandra was visited by an energic group of 1^st Alexandra Scouts. With the help of their leaders Sarah Southam, Josh Russell, and parent Simon Cole, the scout ran a fun games night for everyone Nerf sword fights, footy in a bucket kept everyone entertained. The scouts then explained why they enjoyed being scouts; having fun, making new friends and learning new skills.	scouts visit Rotary	Tom Farrell	2024-06-06 14:00:00Z
Raffle winner 25May 2024 The wood raffle was drawn by Vicki from the Gift Shop and won by Margaret Twitchett	Raffle winner 25May 2024	Tom Farrell	2024-05-26 14:00:00Z
Welcome Ian and Chris to Rotary Our newest member Ian Smith became acquainted with club Art Show director John Allcock while visiting Yenckens Hardware on Saturday mornings last year. The two became friends and Ian & wife Chris were invited along to a couple social meetings to learn more about Rotary in Alexandra. Ian & Chris's vast knowledge in the medical field will be a huge asset to the club going forward and we will welcome their input on local community & international projects.	Welcome Ian and Chris to Rotary	Tom Farrell	2024-05-23 14:00:00Z
Beanie Festival helps Rotary wood program Alexandra Rotary received $1000 from the Murrindindi Beanie Festival Committee to support the Wood Program. The festival this year on May 25 and 26th at the Alexandra Shire Hall and the Bowls Club rooms in Leckie Park. Proceeds support community groups in our shire.	Beanie Festival helps Rotary wood program	Tom Farrell	2024-05-06 14:00:00Z
Student Exchange This week we has an informative talk by Diane Murphy secretary and Meredith Miegel., Chair of District Student Exchange Committee. They explained what was required to take part in the student exchange program and the benefits for the exchangees and for our club..	Student Exchange	Tom Farrell	2024-05-05 14:00:00Z
AI revealed Rotary Alexandra speaker this week was Steve Paix spoke on Artificial Intelligence (AI) His business is String Theory Creative, and his interests include Media and Mental Health, and Music. AI- What is it? We have all been exposed to AI-those who use YouTube and Google will notice that these platforms recognise patterns in usage, and offer suggestions based on search history. A few technical terms to get your heads around- Generative AI - generates new original content. The G in ChatGPT stands for generative. Large language models - are a type of AI that can communicate using normal human language (no coding required) Chat GPT uses Generative Pretrained Transformer. It is so fluent in human language that anyone can use it. It has been trained on a huge amount of data- basically the whole of the internet, far more than any human could possibly take in. It is trained to recognise patterns in language. A large language model is an artificial neural network ( or'Brain') Many types of content can be represented by numbers eg text, images, audio and video. Large language nodes are a type of 'guess the next word' machine which recognises patterns of usage. For example- Dogs are....................... " " animals..................... " " " that............. " " " " .bark............... Imagine talking to a genius who is the sum of all human knowledge! The biggest limitation of this technology is the user's ability to describe what they need, the 'prompting' Chat GPT is free. You can 'play' with it. It has the potential to make life better, for instance in health care, reading and comparing scans, and recognising patterns and suggesting a predictive diagnosis. Potential risks include job displacement, surveillance, loss of privacy, bias (according to quality of training) Worst case scenario- AI Misalignment could theoretically pose an existential risk to humanity. But Steve is optimistic. With ethical AI governance, and careful management essential he advised us Don't panic Be curious *The machines are not coming for us (just yet) An informative speaker and musician.	AI revealed	Tom Farrell	2024-04-23 14:00:00Z
2024 Easter Art Show raffle winners Alexandra Rotary Easter Art Show Raffle winners First prize, Painting, Goulburn Views, by Wykeham Perry was won by Iris, from Alexandra Second Prize, Platypus Rafting Expedition for 6, on the Goulburn, donated by Geoff Proctor, was won by Carren Wood. Third prize, Hamper donated by Dr Helen Haines MP was won by Elizabeth Sizemore.	2024 Easter Art Show raffle winners	Tom Farrell	2024-04-02 13:00:00Z
2024 Easter Art Show Come along tonight for the grand opening of the Alexandra Rotary Easter Art show. 6.30 $25 entry, drinks and finger food. Saturday & Sunday 10 to 5 . $5 entry Monday 9 to 12, $5 entry (no fooling)	2024 Easter Art Show	Tom Farrell	2024-03-28 13:00:00Z
Free Music in Rotary Park	Free Music in Rotary Park	Tom Farrell	2024-01-29 13:00:00Z
Australia Day 2024 Rotary at work. Wonderful attendance at Australia Day celebrations.	Australia Day 2024	Tom Farrell	2024-01-26 13:00:00Z
Welcome back dinner We had a lovely evening at John Allcock and Jenny Baker's property! Beautiful summer sunset.	Welcome back dinner	Tom Farrell	2024-01-24 13:00:00Z
Art show and cycle Dindi	Art show and cycle Dindi	Tom Farrell	2024-01-22 13:00:00Z
Easter Art Show 2024	Easter Art Show 2024	Tom Farrell	2024-01-21 13:00:00Z
2024 Easter Art Show entry form You can simply click download files on left to get a printable copy	2024 Easter Art Show entry form	Tom Farrell	2023-12-30 13:00:00Z
2024 Easter Art Show (Shire Hall)	2024 Easter Art Show (Shire Hall)	Tom Farrell	2023-12-22 13:00:00Z
Merry Christmas Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. Our Christmas break up was terrific. Catered by Blur Ribbon Catering from the Trawool Shed . A delicious meal with outstanding service from Leah, Lisa & Melissa . Great company kept hydrated by our wonderful bartender Neil Robinson. Jenny Paul was presented with her Youth Director’s Badge. Congratulations. John and John led the Rotary Family singers. A great night special thanks to Penny and Trevor for their decorations , Helen and Ian along with Ross Thompson for their organisation of this outstanding night.	Merry Christmas	Thomas James Farrell	2023-12-20 13:00:00Z
Alexandra Primary awardee Chloe Woehl-Rotary Award 2023 Chloe is a quiet, hard- working, diligent student who is always willing to give everything a go and achieve her personal best. She arrives at school with a smile on her face, ready to lend a hand in any way she can and to put in 100% effort into her studies. Chloe is always eager to learn, enjoys the benefits of her hard work and is proud of her achievements. She can be relied upon to persist and persevere with every opportunity that comes her way. Chloe isn’t the student who scores 100% on tests or wins every running race; she is however the determined, very humble young lady you see before you, who tries her utmost best in all aspects of school life- sports, school work, creative arts, outdoor education, leadership activities, volunteering, fundraising, just to mention a few! Chloe is a prime example of how hard work, a positive attitude, and setting yourself high goals to strive towards, can give you success in life. She gives and puts in without ever expecting much in return. When Chloe was told she got this award her response was one of complete shock, and she told me later she sat quietly in complete disbelief for ages and kept pinching herself just to check she was really awake and not dreaming!! This year Chloe was voted in as one of our school captains, and of course she took on her role seriously, with maturity and enthusiasm. She was one of the masterminds behind organising a Pink Day at our school to raise money for breast cancer. Chloe and another student in our class wanted to do something nice for a member of our staff currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer, and so they came up with the idea of having a Pink Day and donating all the funds raised to Breast Cancer research. Chloe is a student who understands the feelings of others and will always help someone in need, proving herself to be a loyal friend to children and adults of all ages. She is confident enough to make her own decisions and choices without being adversely influenced by others and she consistently knows the difference between right and wrong. This makes Chloe an excellent role model for all students. Chloe is a caring individual who is always honest and trustworthy. She is polite, well-mannered and respectful at all times. Chloe supports our school in many ways and helps to make Alexandra Primary School a better place for everyone. With her attitude and determination, Chloe has the potential to do very well at Secondary School and the Alexandra Primary School community wishes her all the best for the future. Well done, Chloe! We are all very proud of you! Jan Twining Classroom Teacher	Alexandra Primary awardee	Tom Farrell	2023-12-08 13:00:00Z
Marysville Primary Awardee I am delighted to nominate Kurtis Barrott for the Rotary Primary School Encouragement Award. Kurtis has demonstrated exceptional growth in various facets during his time at Marysville Primary School. When Kurtis first joined our school, his learning journey had been notably challenging. With the opportunity, however, for a fresh start and continued support from our dedicated team, Kurtis has exhibited remarkable progress and development. He has shown a commendable commitment to self- improvement and a resilient attitude toward overcoming obstacles. Kurtis has displayed a significant transformation in his behaviour, illustrating increased tolerance and understanding in social interactions, and demonstrating an ability to acknowledge and rectify mistakes with genuine remorse. Academically, Kurtis has continued to develop steadily. He works hard to stay focused on set tasks, asking questions and joining in with class discussions. He has developed an understanding of how important it is to work as a team and has formed numerous meaningful friendships due to the increased care and respect that he has shown to others. Kurtis' journey at our school serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed, despite previous challenges. I firmly believe that Kurtis is a deserving candidate for the Rotary Primary School Encouragement Award, and I am confident that he will continue to thrive and inspire others with his determination and positive attitude. Sandra Bishop Principal Marysville Primary School	Marysville Primary Awardee	Tom Farrell	2023-12-08 13:00:00Z
Eildon Primary Awardee Eildon Primary School – Tyler Ward Tyler Ward has been nominated as Eildon Primary School’s recipient of the Rotary Encouragement Award. He is very deserving of this, having attained some great achievements this year and demonstrating the school values well. Tyler assumed his role as School Vice Captain with great enthusiasm this year. He carries out this responsibility with great respect, always being very organised in his preparations for Assembly each week. Tyler does a wonderful job announcing student presentations and birthdays at Assembly, in a clear and engaging way. He is careful to support and lead students on stage, holding the microphone for them and helping to direct them. He manages this in a seamless and enjoyable way, which also exhibits his excellent attention to detail. Showing Altruism, Tyler is always happy to help pass his skills and knowledge on to others, having great patience in this. He is polite and kind in his manner and cooperates in a team when playing sport, working hard to put in his best effort to support and encourage his teammates. Lastly, Tyler has attained some great achievements this year, in a variety of areas. He enjoys and excels in Maths. He is also an outstanding chess player, qualifying for State Chess last term. A very recent accomplishment of Tyler’s was making the Country Week Cricket Team, after much hard work and training. He is a hard worker, though he has encountered challenges, he perseveres, showing great resilience and his effort really pays off. Ensuring he keeps practising a skill, until he gets it right, is a great strength of his. Well done Tyler, we congratulate you on this wonderful achievement!	Eildon Primary Awardee	Tom Farrell	2023-12-08 13:00:00Z
St Mary's Primary Awardee Rotary Primary School Encouragement Award 2023 St Mary’s Catholic Primary School would like to nominate the following student for this year’s award: TYBAR REID Our nominee for this award has worked diligently throughout all his school years at St Mary’s school. Tybar has many outstanding qualities, and chief amongst these are his perseverance and commitment to improve in all areas of the curriculum. He has made steady progress in all learning areas because of this positive attitude and his willingness to keep on trying to do better. In our Year 5/6 classroom Tybar can be relied upon to do his best across all subject areas, regardless of whether they are things he enjoys or would rather not do. Tybar is well respected by his peers, having been voted in to be a House Captain in 2023 – a role he has performed well, even though some aspects of the role, like the public speaking, are not his favourite thing to do. He can always be relied on to treat all members of our school community with respect, tolerance and compassion. His willingness to help others, to go out of his way to look after our younger students, or to check in with someone who is not looking happy, has been commendable. One incident occurred very recently which confirmed for us that Tybar was our best candidate to receive this award. One of our Year 5s named him as a personal role model whom he hopes to emulate. In particular, this student named Tybar as someone he admires greatly for his determination. Whether its playing football, solving a Maths problem or reading a novel, his determination to get it done and done well is always evident. Tybar exemplifies all the qualities emphasised in our Vision Statement – encouragement, inclusivity, commitment to learning, awareness of the importance of safety, compassion and faith. We are grateful that the Rotary Club of Alexandra has provided us with the opportunity to recognise and celebrate what Tybar has given to our school community.	St Mary's Primary Awardee	Tom Farrell	2023-12-08 13:00:00Z
Buxton primary awardee Buxton Primary School Rotary Encouragement Award Recipient We are thrilled to nominate Mitchell Magor as our 2023 Buxton Primary School Rotary Encouragement Award recipient. When we asked our students and staff to choose a Grade 6 who was thoughtful, inclusive, a hard worker and a great role model, the vote was overwhelmingly in favour of Mitchell. Mitchell lives in Alexandra with his parents Christine and Matt, and his two younger brothers Lucas and Alex. He loves technology, computer games and building Lego models. He has an analytical mind and is our school’s on call technology help desk person. I can see him working in the information technology field in future, perhaps in game design or coding. Mitchell came to Buxton Primary School in Grade 5, at the end of Term 3, 2022. Since that time, we have seen him blossom and grow in confidence. Mitch has experienced some learning challenges throughout primary school, but his amazing work ethic, persistence and mature approach to his learning have seen him achieve wonderful learning gains. He has discovered that making mistakes is an important part of learning and that we all have different strengths and challenges. Mitch ignores distractions and applies himself well to all learning tasks. Peers and friends are very important to us all, but they are even more so in the preteen years and young adulthood. During this time, one of the hardest things to do is to stand up for what is right or what you believe in. This year we have admired how Mitchell has withstood peer pressure and spoken up for what he believes is right, even to his close friends. Mitchell has a kind heart and will often be the first to help teachers or other students in need. His quiet but caring nature is reassuring to younger students. As teachers, we couldn’t ask for a better role model for our students, as Mitch consistently lives up to our school values of kindness, fairness and growth. I have been lucky enough to know and teach Mitchell over several years at two different schools. I admire the young man he has become and have great confidence in his ability to overcome any challenges he faces in future. Mitch, we are incredibly proud of you. I hope that you take the time to reflect on your achievements. There may have been times when you felt frustrated or disheartened, but you have persevered and shown us what a determined and capable young man you are. We will miss having you at Buxton, but we wish you all the best for secondary school and beyond. Principal: Ms Sarah Irving	Buxton primary awardee	Tom Farrell	2023-12-08 13:00:00Z
School awards Rotary Citizenship and Primary Encouragement Awards. One of our Alexandra Rotary highlight nights. The awarding of the Rotary Citizenship awards to Eliza Gesler and Bryan Rooney. Nigel Lyttle, Alexandra Secondary College Principal, gave glowing commendations about both students listing their achievements and outstanding qualities. This was followed with the awarding of the Rotary Primary Encourage Awards. Each local primary school was asked to nominate the most deserving grade 6 student to receive this year’s award. Financial assistance of $500 is awarded to the student to provide encouragement and assistance in the move from primary to secondary schooling. A cheque was sent to Alexandra Secondary College towards the costs of school and book fees. Awardees were Tybar Reid (St Mary’s Primary), Chloe Woehl (Alexadra Primary), Mitchell Magor (Buxton Primary), Tyler Ward Eildon Primary) and Kurtis Barrott (Marysville Primary). Listening to the staff members present the citations for each student revealed what an exceptional group they are. We wish the best to Bryan and Eliza in the post-Secondary lives and the five grade 6 students all the best starting their adventure at Alexandra Secondary College.	School awards	Tom Farrell	2023-12-07 13:00:00Z
Cycle Dindi March 16 2024	Cycle Dindi March 16 2024	Tom Farrell	2023-10-29 13:00:00Z
Open gardens	Open gardens	Tom Farrell	2023-10-28 13:00:00Z
Exercise essential Alexandra Rotary’s guest speaker was Reece Bowman, Physiotherapist, Alexandra District Health. He has worked at ADH for 3 years, and has a total of 10 years’ experience, mostly in community settings. He escaped from Melbourne during Covid. HIs interests include ageing well, managing back pain with exercise, and pelvic floor dysfunction. 1 in 6 Australians experience back pain; it is the third leading cause of disability and has cost the economy $3.4 billion in 2019-20. Musculoskeletal disorders are COMMON, affecting 23% of the population. The spine comprises of cervical, lumbar and sacral vertebrae, terminating in the coccyx, with discs of cartilage between them. It is supported by the abdominal muscles (six pack) which act like a corset, by the ropey muscles of the back, the diaphragm (which moves the lungs) and the pelvic floor at the base. If the pelvic floor is not stable, it can lead to problems with bladder and bowel dysfunction. Herniated or prolapsed discs can be associated with radicular pain such as sciatica extending down the legs. Osteoporotic fractures occur when vertebrae crush under their own weight with minimal impact. Commonest sign is loss of height with ageing, and 'dowager's hump curving of the spine'. Imaging is used to make diagnoses for clinical history, BUT the degree of pain experienced does NOT relate to the level of physical abnormality observed in medical imaging. Reece's advice is that 'Exercise is not optional. It is an essential medicine/therapy which needs to be taken DAILY'. For those over 65, that means 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise, most days. At this intensity it should still be possible to maintain a conversation, but the definition of moderate needs to be individualised. A very informative talk relevant to everyone.	Exercise essential	Tom Farrell	2023-10-27 13:00:00Z
Local businesses help celebrate Hat Day Some of the supporters of Rotary Hat day. Improving life for all Australians through Mental Health Research, Education and Awareness. A simple chat might help someone. Kristy and Kirby at Kirby's Hair, Dawn and at Goody's Discounts, Foodworks- Rachel, Christeen, Jason and Deanna, Alexandra Pharmacy	Local businesses help celebrate Hat Day	Tom Farrell	2023-10-09 13:00:00Z
Hat day Celebrating Hat Day with our guests. Mark Warren-Smith, Games Master devised a variation on Noughts and Crosses involving balloons and conga lines, which was won by Murrindindi Respect Group, accompanied by loads of laughs. This was followed by a lively fines session conducted by sergeants Ian Hewitt and John Monteath, which helped inflate the coffers. In line with the Lift the Lid theme for the evening, prizes were presented to hats in various categories- Prettiest/Pinkest, Classiest, Most Colourful, Scariest, Most Regal and Most Practical. On behalf of our guests, Teneille thanked RC Alexandra for their hospitality. Hat day raises money for Rotary Health. Australian Rotary Health provides funding towards research grants, fellowships and PhD scholarships focused on finding preventative and curative solutions for mental illness in young Australians. From 2023, our funding focus will narrow to the mental health of children aged 0-12 Read more...	Hat day	Tom Farrell	2023-10-04 13:00:00Z
Footy Night with Seymour Rotary A wonderful night of fellowship between Alexanda and Seymour Rotary clubs.	Footy Night with Seymour Rotary	Tom Farrell	2023-09-28 14:00:00Z
Angel Flights helps our community Rotary Alexandra guest speaker Doug Carney, Spring Crk Rd resident for 40 years and Angel Flight volunteer pilot over 15 years, and for the last 6 years splitting his time between Alexandra and Tocumwal. Angel Flight volunteers provide non-urgent transport for medical treatment at no cost to their passengers. The service is funded by donations, from service clubs and philanthropy 85% of funds raised is spent on aircraft fuel and airport fees, both of which are provided at discount from regular services, to support Angel Flight. Only 15% of funds is spent on administrative expenses. The service has been operating in Australia for 20 years, after Bill Brewster, visiting the Osh-Kosh Air Show in 2003, saw a similar service in the US and could see potential benefits here too. Initially it was expected that they would do approx. 800 flights a year. This has grown to 2000 flights a year. Pilots and drivers (land angels) donate their time, aircraft and vehicles to transport patients to appointments. Most of their customer have serious medical problems which cannot be managed in their local communities. On his first flight for the service, Doug flew a patient from Mildura to the Austin Hospital for chemotherapy- a 2 hour flight instead of an 8 hour drive. Why volunteer for Angel Flight? Pilots love flying, and doing something worthwhile for someone doing it tough! Doug has done 7 flights over the years. Pilots need to respond quickly as available flights are quickly allocated. Allocation depends on both pilot and aircraft certification, plane size, carrying capacity, instrumentation. Other cases Doug has transported include a lady returning from Moorabbin to Porepunkah 24 hours post cardiac stent ( 1 &1/4 hour flight vs 4 hours by car), A couple from Casterton to Essendon so that the husband could receive a cochlear implant. A day’s driving from the outback Queensland town of Boulia to a major centre can be achieved in a 2 hour flight . A wonderful service for our community supported by our club with a $1000 donation.	Angel Flights helps our community	Tom Farrell	2023-09-28 14:00:00Z
Bombay Rotary Revealed This week International Director Maria Price toasted The Rotary Club of Bombay. It has 350 members. It has spun off 26 Interact clubs and 6 Rotaract Clubs over the years. They have 50 Committees with 20 looking after Community service projects. Projects such as Tiger Conservation, Empowerment of Women, Fresh Water Projects and the Cotton Green Clinic for the Underprivileged. They are guided by a saying from Mahatma Gandi: “The prayer in silence, with faith for love, is service in peace.”	Bombay Rotary Revealed		2023-09-06 14:00:00Z
DG Neta Kirby visits Alexandra Rotary Rotary district governor Neta Kirby visited the Alexandra Rotary Club this week. She works as a therapist with children from 2 years to 13 years who have been neglected or abused. Two causes she expounded were “ The Life's Little Treasures Foundation” and taking action against domestic violence. She gave a personal example of a baby very dear to her heart and how it is wonderful to be in touch with others in the same position – ‘families helping families’. The organisation has provided support for thousands of families with premature babies but receives no federal funding. With this as her project, Neta is asking Rotarians to help raise money for this foundation who are aiming to raise $53,000. The Life's Little Treasures Foundation is Australia's leading charity dedicated to providing support, friendship and information, specifically tailored for families of children born premature or sick. The Foundation's services are available in the hospital (neonatal and special care units) and in the community when families come home. The Foundation's mission is to ensure that no family endures the traumatic and life changing experience of having a premature or sick baby without easy access to critical information and community support to help them through their journey. The Facts Are: Premature birth is the number one killer of newborns. Over 45,000 babies are admitted into neonatal intensive and special care units every year in Australia. This is over 14.5% of all babies born and translates to over 115 admissions every day. For more information on the Foundation go to: www.lifeslittletreasures.org.au/about-us/ Neta In consultation with her adult children, she has chosen to champion Say No to Domestic Violence and yes to respectful relationships. She hopes clubs and the general community will also get on board to raise awareness of this serious issue.	DG Neta Kirby visits Alexandra Rotary	Tom Farrell	2023-09-06 14:00:00Z
Come along to our meetings Come along to our meetings. Book on with Lindsay Baker before noon Mondays. Email: lindsaybaker3@bigpond.com Cost $25 meal drinks at bar prices. Alexandra golf club Gordon st Alexandra September 6 District Governor Neta Kirby will be our special guest for the evening. ELF Day on TUESDAY 12 September, would like everyone’s support. September 20 Former Angel Flight pilot and passionate supporter with local connections, Doug Carney will present to the Rotary the story behind the amazing work of Angel Flights. October 4 The crazy hat is back! Time to scrub up ready for an entertaining evening with our Dame Pattie Menzies friends. Wear an outlandish hat. Always a great night!	Come along to our meetings	Tom Farrell	2023-08-30 14:00:00Z
Foundation Murrindindi Rotary Alexandra’s guest speaker this week was Robyn Hill who joined Foundation Murrindindi in 2014 after a corporate career in Melbourne. The Foundation is an independent charitable fund supporting community led projects, which evolved from the Marysville and Triangle Community Foundation started following the devastating 2009 Black Saturday fires. As a place-based foundation with an independent board of skills-based members, the foundation understands local needs because its members live locally. They had seed funding of $1million from the Victorian government, to be spent over 10 years. $850K has been invested in 110 community projects by 50 organizations, including $200K for youth suicide and mental health services, and assisting Alexandra Football and Netball Club clubroom redevelopment. As well as direct provision of funds the Foundation acts as an enabler to help positive things happen, because the needs within our community don’t stop. Recent grants have been provided to- Alexandra Secondary College- $49,000 for mental health support, $30,000 for stage 2, Murrindindi Youth Garden, $16,000 for students transitioning from primary to secondary schooling, and $5000 in back-to-school vouchers (Yea and Alexandra) Connecting Communities Grants recently announced recognize that 30% of households in the Shire are single person households. Sponsoring activities such as barefoot bowls at Flowerdale, community pizza nights in Fawcett, and Seniors’ week activities (with U3A) and Menzies carers week afternoon teas all encourage connectedness, which is so important for mental health and wellbeing. A social enterprise is soon to be launched, so that local giving can have local impact. There are many parallels between the work of Rotary and Foundation Murrindindi and by working together we can all do better. 20% of Murrindindi Shire residents volunteer, compared with state average of 13%. An entertaining and informative speech. If you want to find out more or can financially help Foundation Murrindindi, go their website. https://foundationmurrindindi.org.au/	Foundation Murrindindi	Tom Farrell	2023-08-23 14:00:00Z
Come along to our meetings Come along to our meetings. Book on with John Alcock before noon Mondays. Email: landingear1991@hotmail.com or text on his mobile: 0414 397 376 Cost 💲 25 meal drinks at bar prices. Alexandra golf club Gordon st Alexandra 2 August. Anne Burns We welcome Anne as a new member to Rotary of Alexandra. We look forward to hearing her story and aspirations. Based in Alexandra and as Land Use Activity Agreement Manager for Taungurung Land and Wayers Council, Anne’s presentation will include an insight into local Taungurung culture. 16 August. Robyn Hill Executive Officer Foundation Murrindindi Robyn Hill has a wealth of information to help make vibrant communities. After senior positions in the corporate world, Robyn provided invaluable administrative support for Marysville and District during the five years of bushfire recovery. Robyn Hill lives in Taggarty and is the founding Executive Officer of Foundation Murrindindi	Come along to our meetings	Thomas James Farrell	2023-07-30 14:00:00Z
Highlights of our changeover Highlights from our Rotary changeover. Anne Burns welcomed guests to Taungurung Country. The toast to Rotary International was proposed by Ian Gibb. Past DG Phil Clancy spoke in response to Ian's toast, referring to the recent RI International Convention in Melbourne last month. Those who were unable to attend can follow the links to RI in our club bulletin to experience a sample of the convention presentations. In particular Phil cited the efforts of Ukrainian John Hewko ,CEO and General Secretary of RI to assist refugees, who currently number 100 million world wide, and rising. Peace is not merely the absence of war. RI are seeking to become practitioners of peace, to start waging peace, not war. Building pillars of positive peace by developing human capital, acceptance of the rights of others, equitable distribution of resources and maintaining good relations with neighbours. Toxic polarisation is a threat to world peace. The End Polio Now program is a great example of peace building. Lessons learned from the polio program have been applied during the Covid pandemic. The Memorial Candle was lit by John Turner, in remembrance of members who have passed. Pres Sharon Fox outlined her report on the year's activities, as printed in the annual report. Highlights include meeting the goal of increasing membership ( 9 new members, a 30% increase), thereby reinvigorating the club. An international project, providing humanitarian relief for Ukrainian refugees, was initiated, facilitated by incoming president Geoff's partner Sue, and has been further supported by our neighbour clubs at Euroa and Mansfield. Sharon then inducted Geoff Proctor as President RC Alexandra for 2023-24 . Incoming Pres Geoff challenged members to ask themselves - What do we do? How do we engage the community? How do we encourage younger people to join us? What are the needs and requirements within our community? Housing for essential workers and emergency housing for those escaping domestic violence may be a focus. What do we do? Why do we do it? How are locally raised funds used? The answers to these questions will guide our path in the coming year. Geoff then introduced his incoming board International - Maria Price Secretary-Helen Gibb Community Service- Ian Gibb Treasurer - Lynda Robinson Pres Elect - Graeme Bylund Art Show - John Allcock Vocational- Sharen Robinson Vice President - Sharon Fox The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to those who helped set up for the evening, and Goulburn River Inn crew.	Highlights of our changeover	Melinda Jackson	2023-06-22 14:00:00Z
Changeover president's report ROTARY CLUB OF ALEXANDRA PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2022 – 2023 Sharon Fox Where has the past year gone?! Our changeover night was delayed for a month to enable travelling members to attend, especially outgoing President Bob. However, I started my year on the 1st July. In early August we welcomed District Governor David McPherson for the annual DG visit. He was accompanied by Assistant Governor Nina Lunde and they both briefed the club on the proposed regionalisation of Zone 8 of which we are part. August also saw us start a community / international project supporting Ukrainian refugees housed in Melbourne, predominantly women and children, and the elderly. Reaching out through contacts in the local Ukrainian community it was established that what they needed most was food. Foodworks helped by locating a trolley for food donations at the Alexandra store. Dobson’s Potatoes also came on board with a fantastic supply of their local produce. The food was then transported to Carlton for distribution to the refugees. The program has been refined by transitioning from direct provision of food to a voucher system, liaising with the Rotary Club of Carlton, and Carlton supermarkets. A huge thankyou to the Rotarians, Foodworks, Dobson’s Potatoes and all who donated for making this happen. The Rotary Club of Euroa has since come on board to support this project with a generous pledge of funds. In September Helen, Ian and I travelled to Lavington to their club’s international night where the Ukrainian Ambassador spoke; and in December Helen and I were invited to a “thankyou” evening at Ukrainian House in Essendon. We enjoyed two nights of fellowship with the Rotary Club of Seymour where we shared the spoils of the footy and golf competitions, and we welcomed the Lions Club for a visit in November. We continue to help out at community events, Australia Day, the P and A Show, Open Gardens, Christmas Carols, the Rodeo and Truck and Ute Show, as well as organising Music in the Park, the Art Show and in conjunction with Rotary Club of Yea, Cycle Dindi. The Art Show was a huge success in the new venue of the Shire Hall and congratulations to Melinda and her team for a great outcome. The wood raffles are always a welcome event on the calendar and enable us to provide wood for those in need of winter heating. I’m very pleased to say that our membership has increased by 23% this year with nine new members having joined. Welcome to them all and they have brought new enthusiasm to the club. My thanks to the Board for your work over the past year, a special thankyou to Helen my indefatigable secretary, and to Ross for the program he put together each fortnight, John Allcock for attendance and coordinating the meals and John Monteath my sergeant for keeping order in the house and Melinda our accurate “minute” taker of the proceedings at our club meetings. Also thanks to our publicity officers - John Cannon for publishing the Bulletin and photos, and Tom Farrell for the website, Facebook and media liaison. A special mention to Helen, Ian and Ross who were always on hand at the golf club setting up for the meal and meeting for everyone to enjoy. To all the friends of Rotary who have helped out over the year – thankyou. To Geoff and his incoming board, I wish you well and hope you have a successful and enjoyable year. I have had a very gratifying year and thank all Rotarians for your support and look forward to serving Rotary for many more years. Sharon Fox President Our new Rotary board . Helen Gibb, Maria Price, Sharen Robinson, Geoff Proctor, Graeme Bylund, John Alcock, Sharon Fox and Ian Gibb Helen Gibb, Maria Price, Sharen Robinson, Geoff Proctor, Graeme Bylund, John Alcock, Sharon Fox and Ian Gibb	Changeover president's report	Tom Farrell	2023-06-21 14:00:00Z
National Youth Science Forum – Inspiring Australia’sYoung National Youth Science Forum – Inspiring Australia’sYoung Rotary Alexandra has sponsored the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF), for a number of years and late last year called for scholarship nominees. Casey Clark was the successful and very willing applicant. The program included both online sessions and several days in Melbourne visiting a variety of university campuses. The inspiring experience opened Casey up to work in Antarctica, robots that can service powerlines whilst recharging off the lines, food security, dirt doctors, medical research, even precise 3D printing on the moon!	National Youth Science Forum – Inspiring Australia’sYoung	Jane Bylund	2023-06-07 14:00:00Z
changeover 2019 2020 2018 – 2019 Melinda Jackson As the Rotary year draws to a close, it is time to reflect on the events of 2018 - 2019. Firstly, to thank the Club for entrusting me with the position, and secondly to thank all members for their support throughout the year as we strived to 'Be the Inspiration" for our community. Rotary is above all a community organisation, operating at local, national and international level to improve conditions for all. For me , a highlight has been to provide a forum for local groups to share their vision for improvement, as seen in the ‘Pick my Project’ night.Two of the groups who addressed us were successful in moving to the next step towards realisation of their dreams of a heated indoor pool, and a new Scout facility for Murrindindi Shire. We continue to interact with clubs from nearby; Mansfield joined us for a vocational visit to the cherry shed at Yarck and assisted with Cycle Dindi for the first time. Our relationship with Yea strengthened as we worked together to present the 4th Cycle Dindi, while social evenings with Seymour Rotary, where some golf and football skills may (or may not) have been on display, encouraged friendship between members of our respective clubs. The club continues to be a supporter of established projects such as our Annual Easter Art Show, our youth programs and our firewood program to mention just a few, while also adopting new projects such as the ‘Music in the Park’. This is a great way of bringing our community together in a convivial, low cost environment. Membership continues to be an issue, and it is vital that we are seen as a group to which it is a pleasure to belong and which makes a meaningful difference to the life of our community. New ideas are welcome - we cannot continue to do the same old, same old, otherwise we run the risk of following the dinosaurs to extinction. Several new members have joined during the year, and we look forward to their contributions to the life of the Club. On a more positive note, we have just run a very successful 50th Annual Easter Art Show, which attracted much positive feedback. Collaboration with other groups such as, but not limited to U3A , the Brass Band and the Beanie Festival group has helped to raise awareness of what Rotary can and does do in this community. In conclusion, I would like to thank our Rotary Club for the opportunity to serve as your president, to thank our members and wider community for their generous support of our club. I congratulate incoming President Tom Farrell and look forward to serving the Rotary Club of Alexandra under his leadership in the Rotary 2019 - 2020 year. Melinda The new board of Rotary Alexandra. Community Service: David Dimech International Service: Debbie Skinner Membership Lynda Robinson Past President: Melinda Jackson President elect and Club Service: Emily Marr Publicity/ advertising: Rob Chaffe Secretary: Chris Jackson Treasurer: Ina Gibb Vocational Service: Ross Thompson Youth: John Cannon President: Tom Farrell	changeover 2019 2020	Tom Farrell	2019-06-21 14:00:00Z
Children’s Hospital Bilbies	Children’s Hospital Bilbies	Tom Farrell	2019-06-01 14:00:00Z
Mock Interviews Posted by Tom Farrell Mock Interviews On behalf of Alexandra Secondary College I would like to extend our thanks for the time, effort and knowledge shared by each of the interviewers during today’s Mock Interviews. The event has once again been a huge success and many students have come away feeling relieved and very happy with having completed their interview. Students reported that the Rotarians were ‘really nice and helpful people who gave good advice’. Other students shared that they felt at ease during the interview and they were now more confident to conduct themselves in any future interviews. Several students also said that they found the process to be very positive and they felt they had learnt quite a lot. We consider ourselves very fortunate that the Rotary Club of Alexandra have again volunteered to assist with this valuable process which helps students organise themselves and reduce nerves for future interviews. Kind regards, Felicity Wilmot Careers Practitioner, VASS & Marketing	Mock Interviews	Tom Farrell	2019-05-28 14:00:00Z
Yea & District Community Bank® Branch presentation Posted by Tom Farrell Sam Hicks and Mike Dalmau gave an outstanding talk on the Yea and District community bank. Since its beginning in 2010 it has invested $203,500 in community investment. A highlight has been the Kids Teaching Kids Program held annually for the last three years. They have also supported activity and projects undertaken by Ambulance Ambulance Support, South Cathedral Landcare, Alexandra Community Shed, Alexandra Secondary College, Murrindindi East 3A and many other groups. Rotary Alexandra received their support during bushfire recovery and at our Annual Easter Art shows. Sam and Mike pointed out the importance of local employment and investing in local events and community projects. Thanks for an enlightening talk.	Yea & District Community Bank® Branch presentation	Tom Farrell	2019-05-15 14:00:00Z
Changeover June 19 Golf Club Posted by Tom Farrell Rotary Club of Alexandra Inc. Changeover Dinner Wed 19^th June 2019 The Rotary Club of Alexandra extends a warm invitation to attend our annual Changeover Dinner. The evening will celebrate the completion of a successful Rotary year under President Melinda Jackson and the induction of Tom Farrell as President 2019-2020. Date: Wednesday 19^th June Venue: Alexandra Golf Club Time: 6.30 pm for 7.00 pm start Cost: $30 per head. Drinks are available at the bar. For those attending please prepay by Wednesday June 6th. Our Bank Account details are; Rotary Club of Alexandra National Australia Bank-Alexandra BSB 083 503 60663 0744 Ensure you put your name on the payment Please email me if you direct deposit. prospect.house@bigpond.com We look forward to seeing you on the 19^th. Yours Sincerely, Chris Jackson Incoming Secretary prospect.house@bigpond.com 0418378806 or 57722496 Please advise us of any dietary needs. The Rotary Club of Alexandra PO Box 76 Alexandra 3714	Changeover June 19 Golf Club	Tom Farrell	2019-05-13 14:00:00Z
Truck and Ute Show 2019 Posted by Tom Farrell	Truck and Ute Show 2019	Tom Farrell	2019-05-13 14:00:00Z
Mother's Day Classic Posted by Tom Farrell Mother’s Day Classic a resounding success. Rotarians from Alexandra cooked the BBQ and helped run the auction. It’s wonderful to be involved in such an incredible event.	Mother's Day Classic	Tom Farrell	2019-05-13 14:00:00Z
Menzies Services win again	Menzies Services win again	Tom Farrell	2019-03-27 13:00:00Z
Cycle Dindi 2019 April 6 Posted by Tom Farrell Just over two and a bit weeks until Cycle Dindi. Still time to get in a little riding before the event, but even if you don't, you can still join us and enjoy the delights of the Great Victorian Rail Trail and Rotary's hospitality and support the youth in our District in the process. Sat 6th April, start from Yea, Yarck or Bonnie Doon anytime from 8am until 11am. Credit card payment available only at Yea. Why not register early and pay at either Try Booking or direct deposit. Details and rego forms at www.yearotary.org.au.	Cycle Dindi 2019 April 6	Tom Farrell	2019-03-27 13:00:00Z
Wonderful evening with Seymour Rotary playing golf.	Wonderful evening with Seymour Rotary playing golf.	Tom Farrell	2019-03-16 13:00:00Z
Rotary Club of Alexandra joins a multi Club aid program. Currently 10 schools in rural communities in North East Malaysia are part of a project to improve their students English proficiency. Yes, it is a very ambitious project and the local Rotary Club of Kora Kinabalu Pearl has sought aid to expand the project to all 300 schools in the area. David Anderson, a past District Governor from the Rotary Club of Yea, took up the challenge and has coordinated the response from the Rotary Clubs of Southern Mitchel, Seymour, Kinglake Ranges, Yea, Alexandra and Mansfield to make the project a Sub-District 9790 effort. When David addressed the Rotary Club of Alexandra last Wednesday night, he explained that $835AU from each club will support two new schools to enter the program. It is aimed at years 4, 5 and 6. The first step is to give each student an English – Malay dictionary, then establish ‘English Corners’ in each school, providing 700 books in English and TVs and videos in English to improve these critical English language skills. Teachers have specialised English language skills training and the tools to present the program. The project has developed to the point that a matching grant from Rotary International’s Foundation has been applied for. David said the 300 - school target is achievable and the trial work that began in 3 schools is now working very effectively in 10. The key issue for any aid program is to have a local champion and the Rotary Club of Kota Kinabalu Pearl have stepped up and committed to this very ambitious goal. It is a collaborative project between Rotary, Sabah State Education Department and School Parent Teachers Associations. Knowing your dollar will make a difference and that the school is getting the full 100 cents in the dollar builds the confidence that will ensure success. David is very enthusiastic about the potential of international understanding this project will create. The central highlands of Victoria now have some new friends in Malaysia. Kota Kinabalu is five days travel from Singapore so it is quite remote even in Australian terms yet with today’s modern communication systems English is essential for future success for these students. Being on a similar time zone David is sure that the relationships with this part of Malaysia will grow significantly. In receiving the cheque from Rotary Club of Alexandra’s International Director Lynda Robinson, David congratulated the Club on its commitment to International Service which is added to now with support for this English language learning program. He thanked the Rotary Club of Alexandra and the Alexandra district community who support the Rotary fundraising events like the Easter Art Show that enable these programs to be supported. The matching grant program means that the local contribution will double and the impact on the ground brings the 300 school target so much closer. Thank you.	Rotary Club of Alexandra joins a multi Club aid program.	Tom Farrell	2019-02-26 13:00:00Z
Members behind the Badge Come and Join Rotary As part of our program members occasionally are asked to give a talk about their lives. This week Emily Marr and John Cannon gave theirs. Emily Marr Emily was born in Kinglake She had a pretty typical country up bring: encouraged to spend time outdoors, climbing trees, looking after animals (domestic and injured wildlife). She went to school at Middle Kinglake. Sadly, the historic school building burnt in the 09’ fires. She completed her secondary education at Yea High school. The downside was the long hour each way bus trip on probably the oldest fallons bus in the fleet for 6 years. I always had a passion and skill for science-based subjects and was often prompted to aim higher then my expectations. I graduated in 2008 and scored my 1^st preference to study a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne with a rural scholarship towards my studies. Starting uni was a tumultuous time for me: not only was the university huge and a place I knew nobody, but the day after I moved my stuff out of our kinglake home the 09’ fires came through. My mum rang to tell me she was off the mountain and safe before we even knew a fire was hitting Kinglake from the tv news teams!! We sent a week believing our house was destroyed from all accounts, however, amazingly a wind change saved our street unlike so many others. In 2012 I was about to graduate and still was unsure where I was headed. I still knew I wanted to do something that involved helping and educating others, however, was beginning to question if classroom teaching was for me. I sent in the physiotherapy application on a whim as my physiology teacher thought I had the personality traits and skills to be good at it and was lucky enough to score an interview. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science majoring in physiology and moved straight into my Physiotherapy studies. I really enjoyed the physiotherapy course, it exposed us to all the many areas of work physiotherapy can have an impact. As our placements were location-based most of mine were out of the Austin and repat hospitals in Heidelberg. My favourite was GEM/neuro in both acute and rehab levels and this is still the area I think I’d like to focus on going forward. For a while I did think about specialising in paediatrics, even doing a placement I QLD at a private practice, however, as much as I loved the work, I found it very emotionally draining. I also kept busy in my ‘spare time’ with continued mentoring roles for new students, orientation day tours and helping in the good Friday appeal teddy bear hospital. Physiotherapy thus far I graduated in 2012 with a Doctor of physiotherapy degree (note I am not a ‘doctor’ by title). I went on to work in residential aged care and rehab and was placed at park lane aged care in Croydon. Originally to assist an accreditation and maternity leave cover, however, after 6 months I ended up taking over as the lead physio 4 days a week. It was a huge role as the site has 104 residents to 1 physio, and while I enjoyed it, the long days and work pressures began to creep up. Decided I needed a change and to try working in a different field to broaden my skills. I choose to look for a rural placement for the ability to work in a slightly expanded role as a result of the reduced service levels. Every day is different which is both good and challenging at times! I walked into my interview at ADH to discover my potential manager was the daughter of a couple who lived at park lane aged care, which we took as a good sign. Moving back to a small town reminded me of Kinglake, everyone knows your neighbours and townsfolk by some connection, people stop you in the street and there is lots of community pride I also wanted to start giving back again assist in community projects as my family used to do in Kinglake. I choose rotary as I had been considering joining Rotaract as friends of mine were members and I had enjoyed fundraising dinners and trivia nights if attendance as a guest. Not one within 90min so thought why not just join anyway. And being in this club you can see that while we are a small club what we do locally every year has a huge impact on community togetherness and fun, whilst also providing opportunities for young people and recognising local talent which wouldn’t be possible if we were to fold. I also, crazily, accepted a request to aid in the re-launching of the venturing scout program in Alexandra as I enjoy outdoor activities, especially bushwalking, and saw it as a good way to help promote youth growth and skill building. John Cannon John Cannon born in 1944 and spent his early childhood in Melbourne and he often recalls time spent exploring the family home and his family’s love of music. His teenage years were spent in Bendigo a virtual paradise for a boy playing baseball, building and flying model aircraft, and experimenting with all sorts of things. His father was a driving force in the Bendigo Operatic Society. Teaching was his chosen vocation and his place of learning the Bendigo teachers college. His first schools were rural schools in central Victoria and Mallee at a time when the local school teacher always played football , spotlighted for rabbits and foxes and John was involved in everything, except his football skills were not up to those of his AFL team, Essendon.	Members behind the Badge	Tom Farrell	2019-01-19 13:00:00Z
Congratulations John and Lynda Two inspiring Rotarians recognised. Linda with a Paul Harris Award. John with a Sapphire pin. Well deserved. Congratulations.	Congratulations John and Lynda	Tom Farrell	2019-01-06 13:00:00Z
Christmas trees Galore Wonderful effort again by Noel McIlwraith. Christmas trees come and see. Alexandra Shire Hall Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 9pm until Christmas. Gold coin donation. Be inspired and impressed.	Christmas trees Galore	Tom Farrell	2018-12-09 13:00:00Z
Murrindindi Shire Council workers support Rotary Health Thanks to staff from the Murrindindi Shire Council for supporting the “Lift the Lid” afternoon tea. The Rotary campaign encourages all businesses to raise awareness about Mental Health and also to donate towards mental health research. Some stats were about 45% of us will experience a mental illness in our lifetime. Australian Rotary Health is one of the largest independent funders of mental health research within Australia. Rotary Health provides funding into a broad range of general health areas, provide scholarships for rural medical and nursing students, as well as Indigenous health students. Australian Rotary Health provides funding into areas of health that do not readily attract funding, and promotes findings to the community. Remember that resilience is built by good nutrition, sleep, hydration, exercise, mindfulness/meditation, social connection and looking out for each other. A BIG thanks from Rotary to those who contributed food, made a donation and especially to those who wore a silly hat! Donations came to $143.55!	Murrindindi Shire Council workers support Rotary Health	Tom Farrell	2018-10-31 13:00:00Z
World Polio Day October 24, 2018 was International Polio Day. It aims to raise awareness of the disease and its consequences, while also celebrating the fact that worldwide 99.8% of polio has been reduced since 1988. Now only 3 countries remain affected, however, reported cases have risen in 2018 to 20, with 16 cases reported in Afghanistan and 4 in Pakistan so far. The rotary club of Alexandra is pleased to support the ongoing global effort to END POLIO once and for all as no child should die from a vaccine preventable disease! How can you triple your impact? Thanks to a 2-to-1 match from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, every donation made to Rotary to end polio will be tripled. Donate today. endpolio.org/donate	World Polio Day	Tom Farrell	2018-10-23 13:00:00Z
Wonderful U3A presentation Greta and Christine informed us about U3A East Murrindindi Are you retired or just going part time and want to learn for the love of it, enjoying new adventures and making new friends? To join refer to murrindindieastu3a.org.au Our Rotarians were informed about the vast assortment of activities available and given a copy of the 2019 course program. Enrol from Nov 30 2018 for next year. Once you join these include writing and languages, creative arts and music, food, wine and gardens, health and well-being, history/ travel/ games, information technology and outdoor activities. Other events are day trips by bus, happy hour and a yearly interstate bus trip. If you look at their Facebook page Murrindindi East U3A you see many smiling faces. As their brochure says “So why not join in and make retirement the best time of your life?” What do you call a person smiling on Monday? Retired!	Wonderful U3A presentation	Tom Farrell	2018-10-17 13:00:00Z
Toast to Rotary International Toast to Rotary International by PP Rob Chaffe: Rotary International is identified by its symbols of excellence the Gear Wheel that is abbreviated to “the Rotary Wheel”. We know that symbols can be shallow promises and in the modern world we see and experience the consequences of unfulfilled promises yet shining out amidst all the Rotary Wheel. We know Rotary not through this symbol but through what the members of this organisation are driven by. They promote Peace, fight disease, provide clean water, save mothers and children, support education and grow local economics. High ideals indeed, but Rotary International has pledged $150 million US to help fund the eradication of Polio that will cost $1.5 Billion. To give you an idea as to the significance of this Australia has pledged $13 million. Yes only 8.37% of Rotary’s contribution. There are three parts to Rotary and the first is the Rotary Club, the second is Rotary International and the last the Rotary Foundation. World wide of the 7 billion people only 1.2 million are Rotarians and 35 000 Clubs. How is it possible that Rotary can make such an impact, by the way so far this year there have been no recorded cases of “wild” polio. Yes we have almost wiped out this debilitating disease world wide. How is this so? Rotarians think differently, see differently and act responsibly because we, the whole 1.2 million Rotarians are Common unity builders, problem solvers and people of action. Rotary international punches way above its weight where ever it is. Regrettably in the wider community Rotary is known only by the local Rotary Park or a sausage sizzle. In Alexandra its Driver Education Program has saved over 45 lives. It’s contribution to Rotary Foundation over 50 years amounts to over $100 000 US; this capital investment is never touched but the interest provides the money needed. Think what the compound interest on just $10 000 amounts to, let alone $100 000! It was a significant force to get Kellock Village off the ground in the 80’s and the development of the new library. It has welcomed over forty five students on the youth exchange program and sent out 35 students all over the world, 8 vocational exchange team members, six Rotary Foundation scholars and on and on. All this has been possible because of those 35 000 Rotary Clubs around the world come together through Rotary International. Now 113 years old Rotary International is one of the most dynamic, responsible and respected organisations in the world. Let’s shout it out that it is no secret anymore Rotary International is a vibrant energetic and responsible organisation that reaches around the world first a toast to Rotary International and then pop your poppers. The toast is Rotary International! Shout it out with your party poppers!	Toast to Rotary International	Tom Farrell	2018-06-28 14:00:00Z
Tree planting Leckie park Tree Planting in Leckie Park: Rotary, in collaboration with Murrindindi Shire Council and the Alexandra Open Garden Committee, selected the replacement trees and determined the location of the trees to ensure that they would be fit for purpose, be consistent with the UT Creek management plan and to ensure that the easy maintenance of the park is not compromised.	Tree planting Leckie park	Tom Farrell	2018-06-28 14:00:00Z
Mothers Day Classic Rotary Alexandra members are manning the BBQ at Rotary Park. Come join us on May 13^th The Mother’s Day Classic is a nation-wide community based event that raises funds for breast cancer research. No matter how large or small the venue, we all come together on Mother’s Day to remember, celebrate and honour those touched by breast cancer. The Alexandra Yea & Districts event is in its first year & offers participants a 24km walk from Yarck – Alexandra, 16.5km walk from Cathkin – Alexandra & 5km walk Koriella – Alexandra! Can’t join us on the day, don’t worry, while you may not be able to join us in body, you can still join us in spirit by registering as a ‘Support us in Spirit’ participant! Log on for details and to register http://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/events/event-map/alexandra/	Mothers Day Classic	Tom Farrell	2018-05-12 14:00:00Z
RYLA	RYLA		2016-03-11 13:00:00Z
Exercise Track	Exercise Track		2016-02-28 13:00:00Z