This Bulletin report comes from the banks of the Tweed River in Coolangatta Queensland – overlooking the Pacific Ocean – as Wayne and I are attending the Zone 8 Conference under the theme ‘Connect, Share, Grow’ – and what an amazing venue – the Twin Towns RSL Resort

The biggest issue has been the Qld/NSW time differences as you can cross the street and change time zones – the Conference decided to use Qld times throughout the event, regardless of the place, or time of any of the activities

With a theme of Connect, Share, Grow, it has been amazing to make connections with Rotarians from across the South Pacific Zone. The highlights so far have been the 2 presentations by Rotary International Elect Yinka Babalola on Saturday and again this morning. His passion for End Polio Now and telling personal Rotary stories have been truly inspirational and questioning each of us – How have we made a difference to our communities through our personal Rotary journey. (I will include a more detailed report on the conference in next weeks Bulletin)

Tuesday night’s meeting highlighted another of our Youth Programs - MBHS Music Bursary. Year 10 student Feiyan was our guest speaker. She outlined her projected career path within the Music Industry and then presented members with musical renditions to show her talent with the piano and her vocal skills. A most worthy recipient of the $1000 bursary. Thanks to Simon who sourced Vouchers from Derringer Music for the other applicants. We were also delighted to have the current Bursary recipient Aleisha entertain us on the Flute showing us how much she has developed over the past 12 months.

How are your Calendar sales progressing? Jacquie continues to coordinate Calendar sales at Drakes and is ably supported by a team of volunteers – thanks Jacquie

Congratulations Jim and your Community Team – another five ‘Bags For Blokes’ – delivered to Skylight Mental Health Team Leaders Jessica and Tim. Each bag providing essentials for men experiencing hardship and homelessness. The bags contain a range of essentials including clothing, toiletries and scarf/beanie (knitted/crocheted by Rotarians)

There are still some Monarto Safari Resort Raffle tickets available – if you are having difficulty getting tickets online, catch up with Robin on a Tuesday evening and he will be able to get you sorted. Don’t leave it to the last minute – you may miss out

This week’s meeting – we continue with Youth speakers on ‘The One And All’ Sailing experience and ‘Health of the River’. Vice President Jenny Phillips will take the meeting as I will still be in Queensland on Tuesday. Remember it’s Hat Night $5 or $10 if you don’t wear a hat with the proceeds going to ‘Lift the Lid’ on mental health

Just remember ‘The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone. The things you do for others remain your legacy ….’ - Rotary Service Above Self

Roxanne 

Why Wear A Hat Night?

The Rotary Foundation & Australian Rotary Health aim to “Lift The Lid On Mental Illness”.

To raise funds for this important work, Clubs across Australia often host a “Wear A Hat Night”. Those attending a meeting are asked to wear a hat (be creative) and make a donation of $5 to Australian Rotary Health. If you DO NOT wear a hat, you will be asked for a $10 donation!

Key message for this week is WEAR A HAT - ANY HAT!

Monarto Safari Resort Raffle

2025 brings an opportunity to enjoy an amazing Monarto Safari Resort experience.

Enjoy an overnight stay for two in a Waterhole King Room at Monarto Safari Resort, starting with dinner in Kutjera Restaurant & Bar where you will have $100 credit to dine. The next morning will begin with a Dawn Wildlife Safari, an exclusive Resort experience that will take you through Monarto Safari Park’s Wild Africa precinct as the animals are waking up. You’ll then return to the Resort for a delicious buffet breakfast.

This prize is valued at $800!

Raffle is restricted to 1000 tickets and is open NOW! Single ticket price is $5 with discounts for purchases valued at $20 (5 for $20)

Proceeds support Rotary Club of Murray Bridge projects.

Click HERE to buy tickets.

Submissions Sought

Why we want your input

The risk of being killed on a regional or remote road is 11 times higher compared to a road in a major city. Your feedback will inform updates to the Australian Road Rules for sealed and unsealed roads outside of built-up areas, which can be considered by state and territory governments.

If you wish to know more, please click the link and make a submission. Submissions close on 10th November.

In a nutshell, unposted roads in Australia currently have a default speed limit of 100kph. It is proposed to change this to limits between 70kph & 90kph.
You may have thoughts about the need for this!
Considering the vast distances covered in Australia and the reluctance of government to bring roads up to scratch, they are planning to reduce the speed limit in stead of fixing the problem.

https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/regulatory-impact-analysis-reduce-open-road-default-speed-limit

What inspired you to join Rotary?
And how has it changed your life?

Behind every Rotarian is a unique story of purpose, passion, and personal growth. For some, it was the desire to make a tangible difference in their local community. For others, it was the chance to connect with like-minded people and be part of something larger than themselves.

Suellen Scutter

This is my Rotary Story

How did you make first contact with our club?

I first reconnected with Rotary when I saw Roger at the Cally Camp Out, helping cook the BBQ with the Rotary Club. I already knew Roger through the golf club, and our conversation that day reignited my interest in Rotary and the meaningful work the club does within the community.

Why do you stay a member?

I became a member in April 2025, so I’m still quite new to the club. I’ve already found great joy in the fellowship and sense of belonging. Being part of Rotary gives me the opportunity to contribute to something larger than myself and to give back to the community in a tangible and rewarding way.

What are you passionate about, both broadly and within the club?

 Simply put — making a difference. Whether it’s helping out locally or supporting bigger projects, I love being part of something that has a positive impact.

How do you engage with the club?

I try to make it along to the Tuesday meetings and volunteer whenever I can. It can be a bit of a juggle with full-time work and other committee commitments, but I enjoy being involved and contributing when I’m able to.

How do you relax?

I find relaxation and joy in cooking — especially baking. I love spending time in the kitchen, singing along to my favourite music, and enjoying a glass of red wine while creating something delicious to share.

What has been your most exhilarating Rotary experience?

One of my most memorable Rotary experiences was in 2001, when I was a Rotary Exchange Student to Denmark. Although it was some time ago, it remains a highlight of my life. The friendships I made and the cultural experiences I gained have stayed with me and continue to shape who I am today.

What does volunteering mean to you?

Volunteering, to me, is about giving back and making a positive difference in people’s lives. If I can help even one person — make their day a little brighter or their path a little easier — I feel I’ve succeeded. It’s deeply fulfilling to be part of something that brings about change, connection, and hope in the community.

CALENDAR WINNERS 

28^th October

 

Value	No.	Winner	Location	Sold By
$100	52	Necia Zadow	Caloote	Mypolonga School
$50	979	Sue VanDieman	Mount Barker	Kiwanis