As we wrap up the year, it’s been wonderful to finish on a high with community connection, and successful fundraising.
🤝New members & club AGM
On 25 November we were happy to have District Governor Peter Shepheard induct Michael Clarke (former Mayor and councillor) and Mary Dowling as new members to the club. We also held our club Annual General meeting. Welcome Michael and Mary and we are sure you will share your energy and ideas with Rotary Yarraville and our local community.
🎅Kingsville Carols
Thanks to the awesome efforts of Michael Clarke another a much-loved Kingsville Carols was held on 4th December bringing together four local primary schools and their choirs. We were delighted to support the Kingsville Carols and provide a sausage sizzle for the families. It was a fantastic crowd and a great atmosphere, with families picnicking, kids singing, and Santa making a special appearance. Busy night by Members Sandra, Margaret, Jeb, and Mary and helper Scott serving approx. 360 sausages, 200 drinks and fundraising $750.
🌭Bunnings BBQ
Just four days later on 7th December, we were back on the tools at Bunnings, raising an impressive $1,750 in one very busy day. Huge thanks to members Jeb, Margaret, Sandra and helpers Elizabeth, Tom, and Pina for volunteering their time and energy
Zimbabwe Hospital project
Margaret was able to meet with the Zimbabwe Ambassador Joe Tapera Mhishi and also the wife of President and First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, the founder of the Angel of Hope foundation funding medical support to rural hospitals. In September Colleen and the team at Rotary Donations in Kind packed and shipped a container of hospital equipment and medical supplies to Zimbabwe. There may be future opportunities to send further medical equipment, depending on available funding.
🎟️ Ballarat South Rotary Raffle
We are selling tickets in the Rotary club of Ballarat South community raffle. We keep 70% of ticket sales for our club projects. Tickets offer the chance to win a car and other great prizes to be drawn on 23 May. No physical tickets anymore, all electronic tickets with purchase via QR code and website. Please buy some tickets and share with your family and friends. https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=by7pw&sref=dzn6gt49
BBQ Trailer
Maribyrnong Council has completed the annual inspection of our BBQ trailer and we have renewed our food licence/permit.
The trailer and bbq is showing its age and needs work to modify and maintain. We are considering the costs of the trailer and ongoing storage as part of future planning.
Rotary Foundation & PolioPlus
Members are encouraged to check out the latest updates from the Rotary Foundation. https://www.rotary.org/en/annual-report-2025 Our club donates annually to the PolioPlus program supporting Rotary’s global commitment to eradicate polio.
💰 Club Finances & Future Projects
The club currently has a healthy bank balance, placing us in a strong position to consider new projects. If you have ideas for local or international initiatives, please bring them forward we are happy to discuss further.
Club Merchandise
We’re exploring options for new club merchandise for members, including T-shirts, hats, and aprons. We’d love feedback on whether members prefer:
Margaret and Jeb will be attending the Yarraville Carols on 20 December, assisting David Palmer on the night — thank you both for your support.
Sandra hosts a DV Safe Phones collection box, supporting victim-survivors of domestic violence. Please spread the word and donate old mobile phones if you can.
📅 Looking Ahead to 2026
First meeting for 2026: Tuesday 27 January
Straight into action with a Bunnings BBQ on Sunday 1 February
