Chartered 23rd February 2016 - Bulletin 15th May 2025
The Change Makers in Sri Lanka
Our Next Zoom Meeting
8pm Thursday 15th May 2025.
"Paying it Forward"
Rotarian Kellie Kadaoui will be joining the Rotary E-Club of Change Makers to discuss an exciting opportunity for a "Paying it Forward" project in Sri Lanka, planned for 2026. This inspiring youth program takes groups of students to communities in need, where they contribute to local schools through hands-on projects such as painting, maintenance, classroom support, gardening, and more. It's a chance for young people to make a real difference, while gaining invaluable life experience.
We were honoured to welcome Sandi Fulcher, Project Manager for End Trachoma Now, as our recent guest speaker. Sandi delivered a clear and compelling presentation on the ongoing efforts to eliminate trachoma, a preventable eye disease that still affects 1.9 million people in 43 countries worldwide. Her talk highlighted the significant progress made in Australia, where rates of trachoma, particularly in Indigenous communities have decreased from 14% in 2010 to just 1.8% in 2023. Sandi’s insights were both informative and inspiring, reminding us that while great strides have been made, continued community action and support remain vital in the fight to end trachoma for good.
Jeanette Johnston, a potential new member, shared insights about her project Teacher in a Box. She answered questions from members and explained how the initiative provides vital educational resources to underserved communities.
SHARE Project Update
Jenny reported on the progress of the SHARE project, highlighting recent developments and the growing positive impact of the initiative.
Peace Arboretum Report
Phil gave an update on the Peace Arboretum project. He outlined current work and next steps, demonstrating the club's continued commitment to peace-building efforts.
Rotarian Phil and fellow Rotarian Sonny Gomez have launched the Rotary Peace Arboretum in Kilmore—a 10-acre project designed to celebrate peace, cultural diversity, and community connection. Located on historic land once home to the Plough Inn during the 1850s Gold Rush, the site features over 400 trees and shrubs representing all countries recognised by Rotary.
The project is supported by local Rotary clubs and community groups, who will be involved in planting and maintaining the arboretum. The first trees, a peace-symbolising olive and a native blackwood wattle were planted on June 9, 2018, marking both the beginning of the arboretum and Phil’s 70th birthday. The space is envisioned as a lasting tribute to peace and a welcoming place for cultural exchange and reflection.
Our club is proud to stand with the Border Rotary Community Group in saying “No to Domestic Violence.” At last year’s Shepparton conference, we connected with Rotary Safe Families, a powerful initiative founded by Hawthorn Rotarian Dorothy Gilmour and now supported internationally.
Safe Families offers resources and education on domestic violence, with many Rotary clubs, including those in District 9790 already endorsing the program. Their next online event, Global Mega Meeting 2, will be held on Wednesday, 14 May at 7:00 PM.
