2020-21 to Present
2021 - 2022
President: Gary Frank
It was an honour and a challenge to serve as the president of the Rotary Club of Eaglehawk this past year.
After being in business for over 20 years and thinking I knew HOW on lots of issues, I found out more about myself than ever. Rotary, being a volunteer organization, means you cannot use the same approach as you may in your own business, and as there is not a first warning letter system, this means you must learn to think differently.
With the club meetings back to the club rooms it was time (I thought) to use our overhead screen more with the Powerpoint skills I have to give more information to members, and also use it to prompt Directors on their areas for reports. Feedback tells me it did work and as a result, the club business sessions had much more information and involvement then I have seen in past years.
We started off with some power issues and me up a ladder to get the projector happening which was all good fun.
The computer finally got replaced which has helped our presentation and has made us more professional when guest speakers or other Rotarians are at our meetings.
With lower numbers in the room, I have felt members have grown closer in friendship and open conversion and this, I believe, is the foundation for a great Team, which was part of my presidential speech when I was inducted as president.
We are still working towards our purpose, but I think it will be focused on our community (Eaglehawk). Which with the new President elect, Eric Smith and new member John Pearce will better feed into our community. This has already started with the community breakfasts and local support behind rotary member, Mary Preston and has also started to help with the future of Dahlia and Arts.
The work ethic of the club with BBQ and Fundraising, particularly in the first half of 2022, has been fantastic. Members like PP Mick Costello are always ready to help and bring others in when required.
The board has been very united and over the past few years has worked with no issues or nasty debates.
The club's future under new President Geoff Gallagher and PE Eric Smith looks very promising, however we still need to work on recruiting more members to continue the club's success into the future.
It was pleasure to induct a new member, Jennifer Sanderson, and she has fitted in well and was a great helper at the recent Easter book sale event
The year saw long standing past member Howard Osborne pass away after a long sickness. The club assisted where required and it was a personal highlight when Viv Osborne thanked me, even though I was not present and it's good to see Lara Osborne, in the spirit of Howard, taking up a cause that can help people overseas.
With long standing member Rita O'Brien away, PP John Gurr stepped up to help with the bookshop and I have enjoyed working with John and learning all about books.
It was good to see the Trivia night back with good support from other clubs and partnering with the Rotary club of Bendigo South.
Fellowship director Brian Fitzpatrick had a successful Sunday morning breakfast and bush walk at the base of Lightning Hill and we were lucky enough to get DG Dale Hoy and his wife Maureen to attend.
The efforts of our treasurer and executive support PP Alison Bacon has been to the high standard. Her attention to detail and her knowledge, together with willingness to support, has been invaluable. Of particular significance has been with respect to the management of our home, the California Gully Mechanics Institute. She has managed bookings, liaised with the Stroke Association and other stakeholders and looked after numerous logistic issues to ensure that we have an efficient and viable asset at our disposal.
John Jones has done an exceptional job as club secretary with good information and plenty of BBQ’s and opportunities to get out in the community and fundraising with his Bendigo Wine Raffle.
One of my pleasures was to watch Tim Watts in action at the CFA BBQ. He is a man on a mission and I'm glad we have him in our club.
With PP Ron Payne next year as DGE and as the 23/24 DG, there will be more focus on our club and we will have to step up to help where required. We have an exciting time ahead.
Ron’s lovely wife Deb Payne has done a tough and most efficient job in producing the club’s newsletter even though there were times when we didn't feed her much information – a great job!
Our panel beater member Trevor Lock, who can turn his hand to anything, again did an amazing job at “Christmas in Eaglehawk” with our Nativity Scene.
I would like to thank all the members who have supported me over the last 12 months with their kind words as, at times, we all second guess ourselves.
Lastly to my wife, Lola, who has listened and helped when required. THANKYOU for your support.
The club's future under new President Geoff Gallagher and PE Eric Smith looks very promising, we still need to work, however, on recruiting more members to continue to build the club's success into the future.
All the best Geoff, I hope you enjoy the ride.
2022 - 2023
President: Geoff Gallagher
It is with great pride that I present my report for 2022/2023.
Whilst there are no “Big Ticket” items amongst our many activities, this was more than made up for by the sheer number of activities undertaken by our members.
As at the writing of this report, we had made a profit of $12,411.40 from catering and car parking with a conservative estimate of 320 hours worked. Furthermore, there were several BBQs that we provided as a community service.
Guest Speakers
Alison Smith from the Bendigo Health community specialist Palliative Care and Hospice along with Kathleen Murphy who is an oncology massage therapist.
Bree Hollybone from Camp Quality.
Cathie Miller from the Bendigo Sandhurst Rotary club on the importance of the vote for the Zone 8 regionalisation pilot.
Russel Bouvaird. Russel is Eric Smith’s son- In-law and works at the LaTrobe University as head of their Cyber Security.
Norm Bowen - CFA Peer Support Co-Ordinator.
Lorinda James gave an address on a wildlife park in southern Sumatra
Dr Pam Harvey from Monash University of Rural Health.
Michael Hockley who spoke to us about the Sportsman’s Association in Bendigo.
Georgie Redmond who is currently working with the heart foundation as an educator.
Rosemary Metcalf who spoke of how COVID has affected the tourism industry.
2 young girls, Charlotte and Della who we sponsored to attend the Longerenong College near Horsham for a 2-day course.
Ashraf Qorbani along with his sisters Masoom and Liloma as guests. Ashraf was born with cerebral palsy in Pakistan. Ashraf’s father escaped the Taliban to Australia when his family were small and spent the next 5 years attempting to bring his family here.
Margaret Keech OAM from food share.
Dorje Tsering. Dorje was born in Tibet.
Our Mayor Cr. Andrea Metcalf.
Gary Frank who had recently returned from Scotland where he attended a couple of Status Quo concerts.
Ron Payne spoke of his and Debs recent trip to Orlando Florida.
Michael Peebles from the Bendigo Lego Users group.
Tate and Saad with Cameron Lee - past NYSF students.
Liana Skewes along with her partner Sam - Ballarat Tweed Ride.
Maggie Thompson, Grace Reading were participants in the recent (RYLA) Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.
John Poke and Greg Mossap, who spoke on Boronias very successful membership drive.
Geoff Hosking. Geoff a renowned author, artist, sculptor, historian, and a legendary storyteller.
Ben Wakefield, riding Victoria’s bike trails.
As you can see from the above, it has been an extremely busy year. None of us joined Rotary for accolades, however, I would like to thank every one of our members for their contribution this year, whether that contribution was big or small. Some of you even enlisted the help of your partners. In particular, thank you to Deb Payne who provided a terrific newsletter each week, I looked forward to receiving them as they were full of information. The newsletter was produced whilst on holidays and even from her sick bed. Deb was also present at many of our club activities.
Mandy Costello for her work at many activities as well as her work at the bookshop.
Laurie Preston was also often helping us with various activities.
To Rita O’Brien, John Gurr and Lindsay Walkington, thanks for your weekly efforts at the bookshop and at the clubrooms, it is very much appreciated.
To Lynne Cooper for her efforts with the youth portfolio, you have done a splendid job and have made Mick Costello look as though he knows what he is doing.
This year’s board, firstly, to Alison Bacon for her tireless work behind the scenes. I would sometimes see emails from Alison sent late at night. Alison was not only our treasurer but an assistant Governor and has done a mighty job, all whilst holding down an important job.
John Jones our secretary and much more, John has spent many hours keeping “the show on the road”. As you can see from the above list of guest speakers, they were truly first class and many of them were sourced by John. His effort with the Grange raffle was pretty much a solo effort.
Mick Costello, my brother from another mother, has done so much behind the scenes and has been my right-hand man. Mick’s “can do” attitude has made my job so much easier, thanks Mick.
Eric Smith and Brian Fitzpatrick have both done a great job, thanks for your work.
Although it has been a busy year, I hope you have had a bit of fun along the way, I know I have enjoyed my time as president, and I look forward to next year.
2023 - 2024
President: Eric Smith
It is with great pleasure that I present the President’s report for the Rotary Club of Eaglehawk for the 2023 – 24 year.
District Governor Induction:
It is with much pride that a number of the Club members attended the District 9800 District Governor Changeover function at Highett Essendon Fields, Essendon, on the 24th June 2023, at which our own Ron Payne was inducted as the District Governor ably supported by Debbie, for the 2023-24 year, an exciting time for us all as members of this Club.
I acknowledge that we have had a District Governor from this club in the past, however, it has certainly been a privilege to be a member of the Club while Ron Payne holds the District Governor role. As a club it would be appropriate to congratulate Ron and Debbie on the work, they have nearly completed, during their year, which has been an enormous effort when you consider that they visited every Club within Rotary District 9800 at least once, and many official functions that occurred along the way, included the International Convention in Melbourne, and still found time to support this Club in many ways, including being available for, and assisting with, a number of our new member inductions. I also note that Ron and Debbie attended the International events in Florida, Melbourne and just recently Singapore, (the privilege of being a District Governor!!).
Our sincere congratulations and thankyou to Ron and Debbie for the extraordinary service above and well beyond, that you have both given as our District Governor for the 2023 – 24 year. A job well done.
District 9800 Conference “Gathering in the Goldfields”:
The other major highlight for the year was the District 9800 Conference 2024, “Gathering in the Goldfields” Bendigo, over the weekend of 12th- 14th April 2024, with the Rotary Club of Eaglehawk as the host Club.
The organising Committee of 15 consisted of District Governor Ron Payne, together with Eaglehawk Club members, John Jones (Chairman), Alison Bacon (Executive Officer), Debbie Payne (Catering Coordinator), Eric Smith (Volunteer Coordinator), Amanda Costello (Volunteer Assistant), and others from around the District 9800, who worked for 18 months to culminate in a very well presented and successful Conference.
There is a high level of agreement that, with David Mann AM as the MC, the Guest Speakers (of note Costa Georgiadis), the musical interludes by “country musicians” and being a little biased, the Commissioned Brass Band fanfare titled “With the Heart”, dedicated to all Rotarians, played by the Victorian State Youth Brass Band, the Showcase and the efficient running of the event, ensured that the Conference is considered by many as one of the best Conferences in a number of years.
It is noteworthy that our team of “Table Decorators” undertook an astounding effort to decorate the tables for the District 9800 Change Over and the District 9800 Conference formal dinner, producing displays that in both cases featured our Australian Bushland and electronically enhanced. A credit to the teams willingness to undertake the challenges. Our thanks to Marg Gallagher, Mandy Costello, along with others that travelled to the District Governor’s Changeover on the bus. For the District Conference Marg Gallagher, Mandy Costello, Barbara Leanne, Jenny, Mick and Geoffrey, great teams indeed. Thank you all for your outstanding efforts.
New Member Inductions:
Being President this year has been rewarding in many ways, not the least being the opportunity to induct new members. This year we have had the privilege of inducting one returning member, being Past President Gary Frank who ventured back after a short break. Gary was inducted on the 19th July 2023.
This next person Inducted was Gai Porh La Myint (GP), who first came to our attention as guest speaker (along with Moonieinda Ashin) for the Karen Community. Following this was a few further visits before discussions resulted in GP being invited to becoming a member. The induction of GP was undertaken on the 2nd August 2023.
Carmel Fitzpatrick was the next new member. Carmel shifted back to Eaglehawk, following which a family member, Foundation Director Brian Fitzpatrick, suggested that she might like to become a member, which she agreed to. Carmel was subsequently invited to become a member and inducted on the 23rd August 2024.
Barbara Leane has been a Rotarian in a number of locations, which aligned to her work commitments, however, she now finds herself living in Bendigo, and happened to be out shopping, coming across the Combined Rotary Clubs Christmas Trailer Raffle. Speaking with her for a while, Barbara was asked if she would like to attend a Dinner meeting, and the rest is history. Barbara was inducted on the 13th December 2023.
The latest inductee was Kylie Campbell. Kylie came as a visitor a little while back and showed interest in becoming a member. The interest started when her daughter, Courtney attended the National Youth Science Forum in Brisbane, earlier in the year. Kylie was inducted subsequently on the 15th May 2024.
Guest Speakers:
We have had great guest speakers this year with considerable variations and subject matter. We have been transported to many parts of the world, with our own members addressing the dinner meetings on highlights of their travels, which included, in no particular order, Greece, Italy, England, Scotland, France, parts of Europe and Norway. Other guests have given us a very informative view of travel to the Antarctic and wildlife photography in a number of locations including locally. On a local travel level we have heard about adventures along the western side of Australia by intrepid travellers Mick and Geoff. We have had the pleasure of visits from participants in Rotary Youth Programs, for example the Rotary Youth Sailing Challenge on the Tall Ship “One and All”, as part of the International Convention Melbourne. Others visited following participation in the RYLA, and NYSF programs and other Rotary sponsored events. This year we have had the pleasure of the attendance of our exchange student, in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Bendigo South, Ignacio Goicoa Gonda (Nacho) who has made regular visits, informing us about his family and home country of Spain as well as keeping us up to date with his adventures in Australia. Nacho, at a recent meeting, gave us an insight into his travels around parts of Western Australia with the Exchange Student Safari. It would be fair to say that Nacho has changed as a person while with us in Australia and one wonders how his family will find him when he returns home early in July. A complete change came when recently we had the pleasure of a visit from Merlyn Quaife. Merlyn is an accomplished opera singer and local Rotarian. It was great to hear her story, but even more of a surprise when she sang a couple of pieces from operas she has performed.
Community and other events:
We have had the opportunity to support our community in a variety of events. Highlight was the celebration of the 100th birthday of community stalwart Pierce Grenfell. Pierce was a charter member and Past President of this club, as well as an former mayor of the Borough of Eaglehawk. He has been a member of many Eaglehawk organisations over many years. Our club, along with several other organisations helped Pierce celebrate this milestone on several occasions, the culmination was being part of the Dahlia and Arts Festival Procession with Pierce, near the lead as the “star attraction”.
Other events that we have been part of included festivals arranged by the Karen Community and assisting with the car parking at Great Stupa events.
We have assisted the Eaglehawk Secondary College at several events including their RUOK day and Anniversary Party.
As has been a tradition over a number of years, the local Lions Club and ourselves work together to support the local Returned Serviceman’s League, Anzac Day services particularly with the Gunfire Breakfast which brings a considerable number of the community together to recognise the service of our ex-military personnel.
We have undertaken many BBQ’s that could only be achieved by the support of our members and on occasions others that have a connection with the Club. A sincere thankyou to everyone that help would be appropriate for the assistance given throughout the year.
A definite change of direction, when the club undertook some catering for the Council of Governors lunch, early in June, which was on this occasion, held at Camp Getaway, Axedale. With Geoff Gallagher at the lead, the team provided a two-course meal, complete with a roast and sweets, available on time and very much enjoyed by those present. It is certainly not something that we would usually undertake, however at the request of DG Ron Payne, we were happy to be of assistance. Thank you to the enthusiastic team of Geoff, Marg, John J, Alison, Barbara, Gai Porh La Myint, Carmel and Eric was passed on by the visitors with enthusiastic acclimation.
Summary:
This has been a rewarding year in many ways, particularly when you consider all the community events that we were part of, and the overseas projects that have been supported. The opportunities that have been afforded us as a club have been appreciated, as mentioned the District 9800 Change Over and District 9800 Conference. It was a privilege to be part of both of these events.
The fellowship displayed at meetings and other outings have showed that members are finding this area of service both appreciated and enjoyed. The question in my mind is have we achieved all that we intended? I believe we have had Rotary as a community organisation, out in the public while we have raised valuable funds and assisted a number of organisations at the same time. Could we have done more, probably, however we are not a particularly “young” club so you could consider that we have been able to do more than anticipated.
It could also be said that we may well have undertaken the tasks we have, in different ways and perhaps achieved considerably more. A thought to be considered.
Having said that, it is important that I pass on a few votes of appreciation. Firstly, to DG Ron Payne, thank you for asking me to take on the leadership of this club. To be truthful, at the time I didn’t believe that I had the knowledge needed to undertake the role in Rotary. In another field not such a question. It has certainly been a challenge that I believe has been, at least to some level, achieved.
To the Board, it has been a privilege to be part of the team. It is not easy to support a club that has considerable experience and knowledge and stay on a more or less even keel. Thank you for taking the time to serve the club in this way, and to assist me throughout this term.
To the members of the Rotary Club of Eaglehawk, again thank you for the support for all the work that has been undertaken by yourselves as part of this enthusiastic team. I would also thank you for the work you undertake behind the scenes, which often goes unseen and unrecognised. I haven’t a list of all the things undertaken but be assured that it is appreciated
2024 - 2025
President: Alison Bacon
As we come to the end of another year of Rotary it is with a great deal of pride and I feel honoured to have held the position of President.
Our club members continue to go above and beyond when faced with a challenge and that’s what makes it so rewarding to be a part of the team called Eaglehawk Rotary.
The past year was financially challenging for the wider community but it is heartwarming to see that people support our endeavours. We have continued to support both our local community and our commitment to international scholarships. Our Youth programs are extensive and we continue to explore the opportunities to assist wherever possible.
BBQ’s have featured prominently on the club calendar, many providing a service in the community but just as many providing much needed funds as well. The club’s shared commitment in the running of the Community Christmas Trailer Raffle along with the car parking at the Great Stupa also increased the finances and allowed us to again disburse significant funds to where they are needed.
The Club’s success at being approved two District 9800 Foundation Grants has been a highlight as both of these projects are directly supporting our local youth. The Prep Packs distribution to all Prep students reaches hundreds of families throughout the area and aligns with the Rotary Area of Focus of Basic Education and Literacy along with the Marvellous Miles book distribution, which also covers the area of Maternal & Child Health.
As we move into another Rotary year we are in good shape, financially we are sound, membership is steady (actually about to increase) and our clubrooms provide us with a great facility for our club to call home.
I thank all members for the support afforded me over the past year and I look forward to our team continuing to work together in the year ahead.
2025 - 2026
Co-Presidents: Geoff Gallagher & Mick Costello
What a busy year we have had as a club. Below is a snapshot of the clubs’ activities and achievements for the year.
BBQs
This year, the Club held 17 BBQs and 3 car parking days, which raised more than $20,000. These events supported a wide range of community activities, celebrations and partner organisations.
Bendigo Eisteddfod
Kings 4WD Superstore
Bunnings BBQs x 3
Children’s Festival
CFA Championships and CFA competitions
Australia Day celebrations
Harcourt Fire Station
ESC Burra Day
Bendigo Hospital Fun Run
Imagination Library Golf Day breakfast
Gunfire breakfast in conjunction with the Eaglehawk Lions Club
Salvation Army launch of the Red Shield Appeal
Test and tune for the Energy Breakthrough
Mopars Chrysler Show
The Bookshop
A tremendous amount of time and effort goes into the bookshop year after year. Rita and her loyal team of supporters give generously of their time, and we cannot thank them enough. Their work raises much-needed funds and makes a valuable contribution to the Club’s ongoing community service.
Guest Speakers
The Club welcomed an impressive and diverse range of guest speakers throughout the year. Their presentations covered community service, personal journeys, local initiatives, history, health, business, adventure and fundraising activities.
Rachel Mason, Senior Manager for Development at La Trobe University
Leanne Anderson, who spoke about the Camino Walk
Zahrorn Sos, who shared insights into life on a super yacht
Liz Bannon, who spoke about a walk to raise awareness against domestic and family violence
Harriet Caldwell, who shared her experience of suffering a spinal stroke at 13 years of age
Ronda and Peter Hazell, who presented on the 100 Hearts Project
Gary Pinner, who discussed a proposal being investigated for a Relief Centre Warehouse Facility in Central Victoria
Kaye Lehmann, who spoke about FoodShare Bendigo
Barry Doye, who presented on the CFA fire brigade competitions committee
President Lindsay Jolley, guest speaker at a joint meeting with Bendigo South
Terry O’Brien, our Citizen of the Year
Dot Smith, representing Back Packs 4 VIC Kids
John Brewin, entrepreneur and adventurer
Elaine Smart, representing the VIEW Club
Mick Costello, who spoke on Gallipoli
Ken Pollock, representing Blackjack Winery
Jenny Trewartha, representing the Bendigo Base Hospital Trained Nurses League
Brock, Holly and Talitha, along with baby Alah, representing Street Peace
Tim Caldwell, who spoke about his time as a security guard in the Middle East
Social activities
Whitehorse Hotel. Camp Hotel, Borough Club. Marong Hotel. Bonfire night, and whisky tasting, together with a raffle, raised over $500.00 towards the Foundation. Many thanks to Gary and Lola. Eaglehawk Rotary Bookshop. Thanks to Rita and family. The Christmas breakup was held in conjunction with the Bendigo South Club, which was held at Brian and Gail Fitzpatrick’s, many thanks to them.
Collaboration with Other Rotary Clubs
The Club continued to build strong connections with other Rotary Clubs throughout the year. Members worked alongside neighbouring clubs on community projects, fundraising activities, district events and shared celebrations.
Joint projects and fundraising
Assisted with the supervision of students at the Science and Engineering Challenge.
Co-organised the Christmas Trailer Raffle in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Bendigo South.
Worked with other Rotary Clubs to bale up baby clothing for East Timor.
Operated the Club’s book stall at the Rotary Club of Bendigo Sandhurst’s Easter Market.
District events and club connections
Represented Eaglehawk at the Rotary Club of Bendigo’s 100-year celebrations.
Participated in the District Governor’s visit.
Attended the Multi-District Impact Summit at Horsham, also known as the District Conference.
Held joint meetings with Castlemaine and Bendigo South.
Held a joint Christmas break-up with Bendigo South.
Community Work
The Club supported a wide range of community activities throughout the year, contributing time, funding and practical assistance to local events, service projects and community initiatives.
Community events and local support
Sponsored the Winter Irish & Celtic Festival.
Staffed the Eaglehawk Football and Netball Club gate for home games.
Supported the Woodvale Fair through the Pop-Up Bookshop.
Participated in the Whipstick Walk for Polio.
Assisted with the Foodshare pop-up pantry at the Mechanics.
Financed and supported the Marvellous Miles book with the assistance of a Rotary Foundation Grant.
Launched the Rotary Club of Eaglehawk community grants application program.
Conducted a Safe Food Handling course.
Organised the Grange Plus raffle.
Erected the Nativity scene in the Vinnies window.
Assisted with decorating the soundshell in preparation for Carols by Candlelight.
Entered the Dahlia and Arts procession and won best themed float.
Placed the Club’s wreath at the cenotaph on ANZAC Day.
Counted money for the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal over several nights.
Members behind the badge
Mick Costello, John Jones, Ben Hill, John Gurr, Charlie Cunneen and Lindsay Walkington.
Carparking
Swap meet, Great Stupa x 2.
Acknowledgements
We sincerely thank everyone who has helped throughout the year, including both members and non-members. Your time, energy and support have made a real difference to the Club’s work.
The saying “many hands make light work” has certainly been true this year, and we are grateful to all who have contributed in so many ways.
We also extend our thanks to our wives for their generous assistance and encouragement throughout the year.
We thank the members of our Board for the effort, commitment and support they have given us throughout the year.
We particularly acknowledge Alison Bacon for her work as treasurer and for the executive support she provides. Alison contributes so much within the Club and beyond, often in ways many of us may never fully see or appreciate.
John Jones is another fine example of service above self. John has served as our secretary for several years and continues to do a magnificent job. He has also taken on the organisation of Borough in Bloom, which will be held in October.
As the saying goes, “all work and no play makes for dull company”, so Mick and I tried to bring some fun into our meetings throughout the year. We introduced the CUB quiz, an idea borrowed from Kangaroo Flat, and it has proved to be a popular addition. We have taken a light-hearted approach to our leadership role, and we hope you have enjoyed the year as much as we have.
We now look forward to supporting Lindsay as he takes on the role at the helm.