The Year 6 presentation on Calperum Environmental Youth Camp was a great example of the teamwork and communication skills these young people had developed in their time away. Before the dinner commenced, they gathered around Simon and cooperatively worked out the order of speakers, and checked out the final draft of the booklet from which they would read - there were some extremely difficult sections - the botanical names of plants and the names of the First Nations peoples from the region - the students gave their best and did themselves and each other proud. We will have more student presentations in the coming weeks, each covering another aspect of opportunities that are offered to our Youth through Rotary.

• Board members met Tuesday evening after the dinner and discussed issues raised at the Committee meetings from the week before. Topics covered
• Lions Club of Murray Bridge 60th Anniversary Dinner - details Tuesday evening
• Receiving the District Grant to proceed with the Birthing Kit Foundation Australia Assembly days in January 2026
• Request to consider members for Board positions for 2026-2027 in preparation for AGM early in December
• The need for Beanies and Scarves for the Bags For Blokes - see Roxanne for yarn, patterns or needles
• New recycling venture with Re-Co Recycling at Somerton Park  for the Blister Packs
• Callington Primary School trip to Semaphore Carousel
• Monarto Safari Resort Raffle - the process
• Donations/Awards to Murray Bridge High School Presentation Night

Wednesday morning and Jacquie and her team were again at Drakes to sell the Lottery Calendars. The community is slowly becoming aware of the work we do and were able to converse with us of their knowledge of Rotary. Thanks again Jacquie for organising another community opportunity to see Rotary in Action

Jim organised another workshop at the shed preparing Bags For Blokes. Community Committee members were able to pack more bags of gear, ready for distribution

On Thursday evening I attended the 2025 Shelter Box Champion Awards where a number of clubs in 9510 were recognised as ShelterBox Bronze Champions (contributing more than $1000 each year for more than three years). It was great to see 9 clubs in 9510 given this award and both RC Murray Bridge and RC Mobilong were recognised at this level.

31 Rotarians, partners and children attended the weekend away at the Renmark Echo Holiday Park. The assortment of vans arriving was amazing. 

• Friday night saw Rotarians not wanting to cook dinner, head to the Paringa Hotel - just a short distance from the park so some decided to walk. The menu was extensive, the food was amazing and the service was exemplary
• Saturday morning started with a fishing competition for those who brought rods and feels. John was catching shrimp for bait and the fish categories included - Largest fish (Kevin - carp), most fish (27? - carp) and the elusive ‘Not a Carp’ category - still to be won as I write this report
• Those not fishing were taking up the opportunity to knit or crochet a beanie/scarf for our ‘Bags For Blokes campaign - lots of nimble fingers to be seen
• Saturday Lunch was at Eleni’s Greek Restaurant at Mallee Estate Wines in Renmark. The modern Greek cuisine was experienced through a huge array of tasting platters of Entree and Main Course dishes. Those wanting to indulge in a traditional Greek dessert could order Traditional Greek Baklava or Loukomathes (Greek Donuts) as either a plate to share or a personal serve. We were also privileged to hear from Eleni herself as she detailed her experiences moving from Greece to Melbourne and finally the Riverland, finding love and how she adapted to her new life in Australia. Elani also detailed the family’s story of wines, medals and her personal love of serving fine Greek foods
• Saturday night was Quiz Night in the Camp Kitchen/Dining Room. Quiz Master Gordon had us on our ‘knowledge toes’ with coverage of SA History, Rotary Acronyms and a series of word/picture puzzles. Who knew Rotary had the acronym ROTI? - or what it stands for? (Answer: Rotarians on the Internet) or why we even needed an acronym for that.
• Who knows what Sunday will bring - as I sit here on the water's edge, listening to the heavy rain and writing this report

Our topic for Tuesday’s meeting is to hear from more of our Youth Programme participants - this time our involvement with the Music programme at Murray Bridge High School and our Music Bursary recipients

Just remember ‘Generosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need’ - Rotary Service Above Self

Roxanne 

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.

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 

21^st October

 

Value	No.	Winner	Location	Sold By
$100	137	Cynthia Bridge	Murray Bridge	Mobilong Rotary
$50	923	Bell Imperial Cabinets	Murray Bridge	Sponsor