It was a more informal gathering this week with 25 people (Rotarians, partners and guests).  Apologies this week were from: Ben Hill, Brian Fitzpatrick, Kylie Rowbottom, Tim Watts, Gary Frank and Jenny Sanderson.

We met at the Eaglehawk Rotary Bookshop in High St Eaglehawk.  It certainly was a chance for people to catch up socially and enjoy some food together.  We also were invited to explore the historical Pharmacy collection (belonging to the O’Brien family), such a privilege.  Amongst many treasures were things like original newspapers, Chemist shop ledgers, pill making equipment and many interesting old storage items.

John Pearce offered his expertise again and Aileen Kirkwood was our guest speaker, recalling her early youth as a true Eaglehawk.  Aileen is a renowned local historian and has been an active contributor to the Eaglehawk community.  Her stories and reflections about changes to Eaglehawk, gave us lots to think about.

Thanks to Rita and family for offering us their property and organising the food.  Our appreciation also to Malcolm and Paul O’Brien for setting up and conducting the tour and to Marg and Lindsay Walkington for many hours of cleaning/dusting the collection.  Well done to Barb and Mandy for the cakes too.

 

Thanks also to everyone who assisted at the Vegecareian Festival car parking last Sunday. There were lots of attendees.  Again, it gave us a chance to promote Rotary and raise some funds too.

Our partnership with Lightning Reef Primary School has extended to working with the school and conducting the car parking at the school oval for the annual events of:
Bendigo Swap Meet 15-16th Nov 2025 ......John Jones will be calling for volunteers for

Saturday 15th, November - please watch your email.  Bendigo Sheep and Wool Show (July 17-19th 2026), Bendigo (23-24th October 2026).

Next week Guest Speaker is Tim Caldwell – talking about his work in private security in
Palestine & Israel.

 

We wish Gary Frank a speedy recovery - you are missed Gary.