.
Speakers and Club activities
What IS Rotary ??
Alex Rotary Fees
What does Rotary cost? Our full members pay $150 every 6 months to support Rotary International (RI) causes. The only other cost is club breakfast, which can cost between $5 - $12 at the Alex Surf Club. 
 
In return you get to hear great speakers, meet like minded good citizens, find out what's going on around the world and local communities. By being part of a Rotary club you get involved in community and youth projects, some of them fundraising. Proceeds from fundraising are donated to  community causes suggested by the members. Some years we have donated  >$25,000 to local community. 
 
Friends of Alex, who are basically folks who volunteer to help out or attend very occasional Rotary meetings, pay $20 pa.
 
On joining, there will be a one-off cost for a personalised club shirt and badge. 
Alex Rotary WorkLife Coaching Program 
 
Helping save lives in Uganda. See YouTube video
 
 
See us on Social Media
Rotary News Feed
Rotary leads 28 sessions at United Nations climate conference

Rotary leads 28 sessions at United Nations climate conferencePresentations and workshops at COP28 highlight community-led solutions, partnerships, and

Consider your carbon foodprint

If all the climate change solutions, from electric cars to wind turbines, there’s a powerful one that’s staring you in the face — at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Rotary projects around the globe December 2023

Learn how Rotary clubs are taking action in the United States, Peru, Italy, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea.

Help Rotary Strike Out Polio

2024-25 Rotary International President Stephanie A. Urchick invites 25 PolioPlus supporters to her hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, to Help Rotary Strike Out Polio at the $1 Million Baseball Game.

An audacious request transforms South African schools

With the largest Rotary global grant ever awarded in South Africa, Rotarians refurbish 11 schools’ toilets and kitchen facilities.

Rotary helping you transition to work
Here is a link to the complete WorkLife booklet developed by Alex Rotary as a mentoring guide to anyone starting work for the first time. (Also not a bad read for anyone going back into the workforce who would like a bit of inspiration and advice. 
 
We've also found that local businesses use it as a friendly support for their employees to help discussions along on the importance of work, (and how to be happy at work while making the boss happy!!)
 
 
Club Executives & Directors
President
Secretary
Treasurer

Welcome to the Alexandra Headland Rotary Club

 
We meet every Wednesday morning at 6.45 for 7 am breakfast meeting at Alex SLSC.
Guest speakers, catch up with what's happening in your community, amazing beach views, and kiosk breakfast. 
 
Are you an local community minded person who wants to make positive changes in your neighbourhood and the world? Our club members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back.
Club News

Young Parents Open Day Lunch 

At the IFYS Young Parents open day it was great to see and hear of the fantastic progress the IFYS Young Parents centre. Great strides have ben made since Tanya invited your club to become involved in its renovation at the start of the year.
 
There was a good attendance at the open day from club, BOSS, IFYS. But the highlight of the project was Naomi’s artwork and Boss’s jumping in to help with the flooring.
 
Recognition also for the great support from Nicola and Cam and Bunnings involvement, Mooloolaba Rotary painting and of course Val’s ginger slice cake must get a special mention as a highlight too.
 
JM’s efforts at assembling of the bookcase maybe not a lowlight, but certainly room for improvement. 
 
It's great to see that the centre’s programs are now been well attended and that the team are really pleased with the final look of the building. 
 
Here's Tanya welcoming everyone to the centre.."making a list a checking it twice...."
 
 
Gaby, Aleesha, Sarah and the rest of Tanya's team have really got the centre and the support programs off the ground and running, such that there are now waiting lists to join this great IFYS program. 
 
We were also treated to a Welcome to Country by Jaila Davis, which was a extra special, as Jaila made it so welcoming and that Jaila brought in lots of interesting Maroochydore information, (including the correct Maroochydore pronunciation!) but also it was her first public address, she handled magnificently.
 
Also our very own Fiona was there to acknowledge the great community work that IFYS does, and also the many other community organisations that the Young Parents program and centre bring into the support of young mums and dads. 
 
But the star of the morning was of course 1 year old Rosie who stole the show and was not at all fazed by all the adults in the room. Here's Rosie with a big smile for a certain scribe. Kids can tell the good people. It's a superpower they have.  
 
 
Rosie's mum spoke about the difference that Gaby and the team at the centre had made to her as a young single mum, and how supported and encouraged she had been through the process. 
 
Well done everyone involved, and a BIG thanks to Tanya for inviting Alex Rotary to be involved.
 
IFYS have proudly placed this plaque at the front of the centre to acknowledge the help of Naomi's Ocean art, BOSS, Bunnings, and Alex and Mooloolaba Rotary. 
 
..and here's the gang at the shaded area with Naomi's murals in background...
 

Diversity without Inclusion......... Meaningless?

Diversity is one of the pillars of Rotary, and Rotary believes that exemplifying and embracing diversity,  equity, and inclusion (DEI) should be a part of everything we do at Rotary. (Rotary.org)  (Click for more info) from the Rotary.org website.
 
So it was quite extraordinary to hear an amazing  "Welcome to Country "at the Young Parents Centre so well delivered by Jaila.
 
A certain scribe could not help but reflect on the regular "Acknowledgement of country" that the meeting chairman does before every club meeting which is one of the ways your club celebrates inclusion and recognition of our Country and of course the Sunshine Coast communities history. 
 
Some time ago the club had a celebrity Sunshine Coast volunteer celebrity as guest speaker who said  "Diversity you get for free, but Inclusion you have to work at......because it challenges you to be your best". (Karis). 
 
But on a welcoming theme, our very own Dave has penned this note below for new (and existing) members following on from his recent very well received Rotary Minute in the club history,

Dave puts together a welcome note for new members. 

AM and Sunshine Coast senior citizen of the year, our very own Dave has put together a welcome note for inclusion in new members pack. Thanks Dave.
 
 

"New" Member Peter joins the club

 
The club continues to grow from strength to strength. On Wednesday morning we inducted the latest member, local Peter Burton who is actually the nearest member to our meeting place at Alex SLSC. Peter is a transferee from Mooloolaba Rotary and a very welcome addition to the club resources as he has extensive experience in organising community events, and a past member of Alexandra Headland Community Association. 
 

Alex Community Association visits the club

Your club has had a long association with Alex Community Association, but it was a first on Wednesday when Rhonda and her team came along to your club to tell us a little bit more about what they do in Alex.
 
 
We've always caught up with the Alex Community Association at the "Christmas at Alex" event, but only a few of us knew about their community garden and beach management activities, and there's a bit of a project going on with them that includes our very own artistic director Naomi to create some more interest around Nelson Park that you'll hear more about. 
 
Interesting fact: Did you know that Costa from gardening Australia opened the garden and visits regularly?
 
We also heard of some amazing recycling / organics gardening activities going on around Nelson Park. 
 
 
Here's Phil Woods talking to the club, about the recent fundraising that Phil and Naomi arranged for the opening of their premises on 6th avenue, and of the importance of the community garden in creating connections and social networking.
 
Phil also reflected on his families connections to allotments and his families history (ex Cotswolds in UK) with Australian immigration over 3 generations. 
 
Thank you Alex Community Association for coming to visit and such interesting talks about your activities.  
 
..and not forgetting the regular Christmas at Alex that the community organisation puts on every year at Buhk park
 

Club's Xmas function - involving BYO alcohol and really big mallets - what could go wrong?

Ever wanted to have a go at croquet?... well here’s your chance at the club Christmas break up.
 
 
Dateclaimer - Christmas Breakup - Sunday 3rd December at 3.00pm ~ 6.00pm
 
Partners, families, friends all welcome.
at Buderim Croquet Club Syd Lingard Drive Buderim
Cost for players $5 – please bring cash.
Flat soled shoes if you are playing.
“Lookers on’ and children no cost
Please bring a small plate to share and any drinks you would like, alcohol permitted.
Tea and Coffee will be provided.
Wendy will need to know numbers, so please let her know if you will be coming.

"It's always the last place you look"

 

President Elect makes rare find and makes an interesting existential truism.

Youth Safari comes to Alex Rotary - Dec 6th Dateclaimer

Your club has a history of helping out at the Rotary Youth Exchange program events.
One of the Youth Exchange events is a "Safari" where the youth exchange students all get together and catch up before heading off to their various hosts and host countries. Covid put a bit of a stop on the YEP, but its back on.
In past years your club has hosted fun nights for the kids to let off some steam before the big year ahead.
Here's a pic of the last one Bianca Aird hosting her YEP mates at the Alex SLSC...

...and here's why the students are clapping ... an adult?? game organised by funsters Dave and Graeme..

...and heres's a message from Peter Higgs RYEP District Trainer about this year Youth Safari....numbers are well down, but good to see it starting again.
 
As you may or may not be aware RYEP  is on the go again. This year there are four students heading out.
As part of the Sunshine Safari they will be visiting the Coast . I am proposing a meet and greet on Wednesday morning December 6, at Alex Surf Club, immediately following Alex's normal meeting, around 8 tish. They can meet with anyone coming from your clubs and then go for a swim.
I hope to see as many of you as possible to encourage these students on this great journey they are embarking on. This year for the first time one of the students is from PNG.

Dateclaimer - Voice for Change 

The Sunshine Coast is no stranger to DV and your club recently had the privilige of hosting and supporting DV Connect through donations.

This note came through from Eric Wood, Chair Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Campaign, 2023-24, District Governor 2010-2011 District 9600.

Coffee catchup and Anisha's big day

 
Media personality and President Elect Geoff caught up with Anisha for a coffee recently, and in solved the mystery of the "missing Anisha".
The good news is that Anisha is alive and well, busy as anything at work.  Even better news, is getting married (to Ross) and planning the big event and honeymoon before returning to the club in mid January. BIG Congratulations Anisha.
 
 

Cost of living impacting on kids learning to swim classes - what's your club doing?

 
There's been quite a bit in the media about the cost of living causing parents to think twice about being able to afford learn to swim classes. In an effort to improve that situation the club providing $5,000 to subsidise learn to swim classes at Cotton Tree and Flying Fish swim schools. 
 
If you know of someone who would benefit from this offer, let the club secretary know. 
 

Bush Fires Disaster - What is Rotary Doing?

 Unprecedented Bushfires Ravage Southern Queensland 

One of the GREAT things about being in Rotary is that the organisation is relentless in helping others.

So even when individual clubs are busy with their projects and activities the organisation is always in the forefront of helping the communities around the world. (That's why everyone should be in a community club like Rotary. Ed) .

Locally bushfire season has started and Governor Kim sent through this note to the club on what the district is dong... 

District 9620 has set up a Queensland Bushfire Relief Appeal (Tax Deductibility) through RAWCS to assist the communities in our towns and rural areas of the district that are affected by the current bushfires.  

 DONATE NOWhttps://donations.rawcs.com.au/27-2023-24   

Please share this link far and wide with your family, friends, and business community so that we can get as much support to help our communities through the next year of recovery and rebuild. We know that the wider Australian community pulls together greatly during times of need and will also love to help so please share. We are in the process of putting together a Media Release that will soon be available for you to share with any media contacts you have, both paper and online. A series of Facebook posts will be created and shared on the Rotary District 9620 Facebook, when you see these, please share to your Rotary/Rotaract Club pages, local community groups/pages and to your own Facebook/social media accounts. 

As there are clubs and members already commencing fundraisers and wishing to donate, we have set up a Bushfire Disaster Committee to coordinate the efforts and support clubs and the general community wishing to assist. This will ensure we are getting exactly what the towns, families and rural communities need at the right time. It will also assist with reducing duplication. 

Please email disaster@rotary9620.org with any questions, suggestions or offers of support, or call PDG Ros Kelly on 0410 605 506.  We will be working closely with the Rotary Club of Chinchilla as the main distribution and coordination point for the Western Downs Bushfires. They already have set up strong communication and links with Tara and surrounds. If the Sunshine Coast Bushfires further develop, we will also set up similar arrangements. 

Thank you for your support of our local district communities during this time of great need. 

..and Disaster Aid coordinator Ros Kelly sent this through...

Be a hero to Queensland families in need. Your contribution to the Queensland Bushfire Relief appeal and you can make a world of difference. 

Join us in supporting those affected by the fires, and let's help them rise from the ashes. Rotary Clubs in Western Downs communities are mobilising for immediate relief. Remember, all donations are tax-deductible. pastedGraphic_1.png

Queensland Bushfire Relief Appeal

Donate Here https://donations.rawcs.com.au/27-2023-24 

     

 

Erin & Steve from Brightwater pay the club a visit

Wednesday's guest speakers were Erin and Steve from Brightwater School, and we were treated to some amazing videos of Brightwater School, and Star TV by 3 young Brightwater students destined for a career in media by all accounts.  
 
Regular readers will know that following a suggestion from Anisha, other members we started to reach out for a school breakfast club project.
Next thing you know our amazing Past President Skye has it all in hand and things have now progressed with our support for the school's Bike Project led by Steve on Wednesdays and Fridays at the school.  
The plan is to build on the success of the bike program and then the breakfast club later. The club looks forward to being a part of that.
The breakfast club is in the planning and forming stage, so stay tuned as we stand ready to support this project .....which is something that Erin tells us will be very welcome with todays busy lives and cost of living pressures.... in making sure that the kids are all fuelled up for the start of their school lessons. 

Naomi's soiree delivers the goods 

Also at the meeting Naomi and her mates from Woods Real Estate and Alex Community Association filled us in on the success of the "Soiree" at the opening of their precinct on 6th avenue in Maroochydore. There was a big turnout of the event, and a lot of Rotarians, as well as our honorary member Fiona Simpson MP..... so what could be more natural than having a raffle?
 
Well, the good news is that the raffle made over $1,000 for the Alex Headland community, and Naomi split the receipts between the 2 clubs, knowing that the funds will be put to good use in Alex.
 
 President Tony, Naomi, Phil from Woods Property Agents, and Rhonda from Alex Community association, who many members will know from the "Christmas At Alex" celebrations. 
 
PS. Sharp eyed readers will notice that Naomi's spell checker doesn't kick in at 4 am..doh!
 
BIG thank you Naomi and Phil, you're champions!!

Flying Fish Swim school - Club offers spots to kids 

After discussions with  Scott at Flying Fish swim school in Maroochydore, the club is offering a limited number of complementary sponsorships to "intensive" swim school camps during the Christmas holidays. 

These sponsorships are from your clubs Solstice Swim proceeds, and the courses on offer are designed to help mums and dads who otherwise would not be able to put their kids through a learn to swim program at a swim school. 

BOSS Contracting coming to club

BOSS contracting are our latest corporate members and will be joining us as guest speakers at our next meeting.
Folks will remember that Trina and John came along to our breakfast meeting a few weeks back and said that they were looking for a way to engage with the community through a club.
We are happy to oblige and already the team at BOSS have contributed to our Young Parents Centre makeover in Maroochydore. 
 

Craig returns from Thailand in time to pick up a few jobs

 
This is the facial expression you have when you find out that Treasurer Wendy has dobbed you in for several jobs while you were swanning about on holiday in northern Thailand.
 
..and who knew the the Chicken Dance was also the Thai national haka?
 
Good onya Craig, or should it be Wendy? indecision

Pride of Workmanship contact reaches out to club

Your club has been approached by Cheryl Giles who members met at our last Pride of Workmanship dinner. Cheryl has been overseas to the Sherwood tea plantation in Sri Lanka and has asked the club if we can help some of the 30 families who live and work there with the provision of shoes and raincoats.
That request was well received and a we'll be seeing what we can do there.
Thank you Cheryl (from Grill'd burgers) for thinking of us. 
 

Equine Assisted Learning 

Your club has also been contacted by Caroline who works between Maroochy State High School and Nambour Special School.
Caroline has been involved with Equine Therapy for kids for the past 11 years. The venue that she now works from offers ARCH programs is at Equine Connection and Direction in Eumundi.
Folks might be aware that Mooloolaba Rotary also sponsor kids in this area, so we're checking in with them, and will see what we can do.
Stay tuned. 
 

Latest Coffee Catch Up Roster - and don't forget the selfie

 "no selfie?..... then it didn't happen".. Kym Kardashian

Alex Rotary Club is changing ....our internet address

There's moves afoot in your club to improve our digit footprint. (a certain scribe isn't exactly sure what that is, but throws it into every conversation whether relevant or not).
 
 
So Tim K and a certain scribe has reached out to stakeholders, in this case Sunshine Coast Council and Rotary District webmaster hoping that both will have an interest in helping your club reach and help others. 
 
Big thanks to Tim for leading this, and also Ray B who has put his hand up to help too. 
 
So shortly you'll notice that AlexandraRotary.com will be changing to www.AlexRotary.com.au
This should help search queries where a certain scribe gets emails from Egypt (Alexandria) and nearer to home Alexandra Hills...and also we're looking at best practice in websites and digital foot prints (sic) from other Rotary Clubs. 

Foot notes (pun intended) 

Special mention to those readers who added to the clubs contribution to the club's Care Outreach Christmas drive, and as mentioned the additional personal donations from members to top up the clubs contribution and direct donations from members and friends were very very welcome. BIG thanks. 
 

Did anyone notice?

A certain scribe missed our resident headmaster in Wednesday, as he was sure at least one person would have noticed the humour is last weeks newsletter..Not one comment, except that there was some relieved members that there were no more Aussie jokes. Sensitive souls. 
 
So can anyone recall the hilarious heading that went as a form of paronomasia  with the photo below?...
 
"Pearls before the proverbial" come to mind. At least Anthony liked one of the funnies. 

What is Rotary Doing in Australia?

Have a read..click on the image to see what Rotary Foundation is all about..
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Club calendar is full - check it out

Clicks for dateclaimers...
 

 

Care Outreach Christmas donation - well done everyone

The club welcomed old friends Bill and Melissa at our last meeting and it was great to see them arrive in the "old" donated 4WD and receive a great bunch of Christmas gift donations.
We received an update from Bill, and it's always great to hear of the work that Care outreach volunteers do in the community, even if some of the stories are very sad. As Bill said, the main thing is to show that someone cares and that you are there to listen.
Bill related a story before Care Outreach was started where he visited a cattle property 200Km off the main road, and the folks on the property had seen no-one for 2 YEARS....and thats a small snapshot of what Care Outreach means to folks outback.
 
Unfortunately the mental health problems are still there and we heard of 3 recent suicides.
 
So well done Care Outreach and the club is honoured and humble to maintain our friendship with such a great organisation. 
 
Treasurer Wendy donated $600 on behalf of the club and a further $450 was donated directly from the very generous members at the meeting. That will all go to a great cause, and of course you can make direct donations  on the Care Outreach Website. https://careoutreach.com.au/

and here's some words from President Tony from Melissa....any additional gifts can be taken to the Care Outreach office, Opp Shop and warehouse at 35 Dacmar Rd, Coolum  (in the industrial area off the Coolum Yandina Rd).
 
At the moment they are concentrating on their Christmas in the Bush programme and will accept Christmas gifts; just remember to identify anything as being from Alex Rotary.  (They are not accepting gifts of general merchandise and clothing at the moment.)  If anything extra is brought to Rotary next week, I will take it to Care Outreach.
 
If you’re visiting them, spare a few minutes to check out their Opp Shop! You would be surprised at some of the household and technology items as well as some furniture and garden tools that they have for sale at very reasonable prices.

Brightwater - Graeme goes for a jaunt

Graeme did is all proud last week when he went to the recycle centre (aka "The dump") and spied a whole bunch of bikes that he thought would be ideal for the Bikie Brightwater Project as it will be now known as.
No sooner had Graeme mentioned this to Steve at Brightwater and he was there at the centre to receive them and drive off in the van to Brightwater School. Perfect timing all round as the school was looking for 6 bikes to open the project and now has enough to get the project off the ground. 
 
It's early days, and we're not sure how the project will go, the club has done well with donations, stands, tools etc., and stands ready to help keep it going. A special mention to our mate Les Walsh, from our old satellite club who also offered to help out. Thanks Les, we'll be in touch if / when we have the next call out.  
 
 
Steve with the bikes. If you look really really closely, I think that is media tart President Elect Geoff in the front seat. wink

Skye's visitors

 
 
Here's Norbert and Sigrid, with their exchange student, Past President Skye.
 
Skye's "host" parents arrived from Germany last Friday for a visit. They will be doing lots of exploring whilst  on the Sunshine Coast before they head over to NZ to see one of their other past exchange students. Skye had an "Open Haus" for everyone to come on meet Norbert and Sigrid Reichhold. 
 

Bunnings BBQ..another invite to BBQ and raise community fund...but guess when?

A BIG thanks to Maroochydore Bunnings for putting Alex Rotary back on the BBQ volunteers pool, so soon after our efforts last month. And wouldn't you know it, our number came up again...and in a bit of a shock..it's on Christmas Eve.
So not sure how we'll go for volunteers, but I'm sure everyone who can will help and will put their shoulder to the wheel. President Tony has offered to make up some mulled wine, (not sure Bunnings is licensed?) and maybe a Santa.
I'm sure the club will come up with a good cause for the BBQ proceeds ....but whatever community cause it's for.... It will be very welcome at this time of year. 
 

Open Day at Young Parents Centre - Dateclaimer for you

To celebrate the recent renovations at the Young Parents centre an Open Day is being held on Monday 20th November.
 
The club will be running a BBQ for the guests between 11.30 and 1pm, and you're all invited!
 
 
Message from Tanya..
 
"We are excited to invite you to the Young Parents Support Program OPEN DAY.
 
This event will be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about our program, connect with other workers in our sector and appreciate the hard work that has recently gone into refreshing our space.
You will have an opportunity to meet our team of dedicated and caring professionals who run the program, and enjoy a sausage sizzle run by the local Alexandra Headlands Rotary Club.
 
We look forward to seeing you there."
 

Club Summer Project - thoughts?

A couple of weeks ago a call went out to members for ideas on a Summer Project for your club. It could be a community event, or a makeover for a local community, a fundraiser for a Sunny Coast group who do not receive external funding or whatever your passion is to help with. So keep those thinking caps on and let folks know what you think would be a good thing for your  club to do. One member has replied thus far. Thank you DW. 
 
Meanwhile President Tony has written to the Mooloolaba State School to enquire if there's any possibility we could hold "The Surf Show and Shine" event in their oval again (with restrictions). 
 
Unfortunately our use of the school oval turned out to be impossible, as has our reach out to the Alex Community Centre..so keep thinking..

Why Your weekly fine matters

This article shows why your weekly fines matters, and those coins (or better still, small notes) all combine to make a difference.

Our erstwhile treasurer Wendy, collects those couple of dollars from members and the club (thats you) donates them to the Rotary Foundation. They all add up. 

For the 15th consecutive year, The Rotary Foundation has received the highest rating – four stars – from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S.

The Foundation earned the recognition for adhering to sector best practices and executing its mission in a financially efficient way, demonstrating both strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency.

“We are delighted to provide the Rotary Foundation with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence,” said Michael Thatcher, President and CEO of Charity Navigator. “The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that Rotary is able to accomplish in the years ahead.”

Charity Navigator assesses nonprofit performance based on four key indicators, including the impact of the charity’s program relative to cost; the organization’s governance and financial health including its transparency, efficiency, and sustainability; a charity’s leadership capacity, strategic development, and ability to adapt to internal and external changes; and its overall culture and connectedness to its constituents and the communities they serve.

Vocational Education Regional Group 

BIG shout out to everyone who volunteered to help out with the Maroochydore High School request for folks to come in and talk to the non-academic class who finish up on the 17th Nov. The school has decided to start of small so there will only be one session, and out Honorary member Ashley was first to respond and will talk to the school on Friday.

Ashley is a great community supporter of all kinds of groups, but having heard him talk a few times about kids development, I know that this is something that Ashley is very passionate about. 

 

Rotary District News

CLICK on the image to get your of Rotary news around the district..

 

Want to help future STEM leaders in the community?

 
Rotary are putting a call out for volunteers to help with the amazing National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) which your club has sent Sunny Coast kids to for ages. Here's some of the correspondence. If you are interested, contact the secretary RCAHsecretary@gmail.com
 

Rotary is a Founding Partner of the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF), and every year Rotarians join our program as volunteers to support the program. 

We are really excited to be able to move back to our residential NYSF Year 12 Program in January 2024, and we need your help to ensure that our students have the most amazing time!

The NYSF is seeking interest from volunteers who would like to share their time with the staff and students during the NYSF Year 12 Program in January 2024.

Volunteers with the NYSF derive a great sense of fulfilment and satisfaction from their work and NYSF is certainly very much enhanced by their generous efforts. You will get to meet and spend time with the next generation of STEM experts, while visiting some of Australia's most cutting edge STEM facilities.

Every January six to eight Rotary volunteers spend their time with us committing to:

  • Supporting the NYSF Staff and our Student Staff by being the part of the supervisory team, and
  • Providing pastoral care and first aid to the students.

You can read a position description for this volunteer role by clicking on this link. 

If you would like to discuss this opportunity, here is the list of Rotary NYSF District Chairs who work closely with NYSF. 

To find out more about the NYSF and what we do for our STEM students, please visit our website

To Express your Interest to volunteer with us at the NYSF January Year 12 program and to let us know what dates you are available, please click on this button. Applications close on 15 November.

Can you support a student in need?

January's NYSF participants may still approach your Rotary Club with requests for funding. Students have until 1 November 2023 to pay their program invoice. Thank you to all Clubs who are supporting students!

Can you support a student in need?

January's NYSF participants may still approach your Rotary Club with requests for funding. Students have until 1 November 2023 to pay their program invoice. Thank you to all Clubs who are supporting students!

Haven't had a student approach your Club, but you have funding? Consider contacting your Rotary NYSF District Chair to see if there is a student in need elsewhere in your District, or donate to the NYSF Access & Equity Scholarship Fund

 

 

 

International project in Sri Lanka

(Edited from Skye's old exchange clubs message).

"For the first time in the clubs history, RC Haunt -Maintal, together with the Rotary Club of Alexandra  Headland are supporting a Sri Lanka relief Project. The.two clubs jointly donated $5,000 that will help a family in Beruwala get their own house.

The relief project in Beruwala has been supported by the Main-Kinzig constituency and the county council A.D Karl Eyerkaufer.

Eyerkaufer now received the donation cheque that was presented to him by President Werner Supine and past president Norbert Reichold at the club meeting.

Eyerkaufer thanked both clubs for their commitment. 

The connection to Australia came through our former exchange student @skyemiller past President of the Rotary Club of Alexandra Headland. 

Project Manager makes good

Some time ago Adam Stewart, Sunshine Coast Regional Council Project Manager was our guest speaker and he spoke about the changes that were coming to the beachfront.
 
At that time the "old caravan park" was still there and the plan that Adam unveiled included the demolition of that caravan park (now done) and then going on to different phases on beach renovation. 
 
So now we have a new park at the old caravan site, with new pathways installed and more coming, and now the demolition of more car parks to make way for living and meeting space. Sounds great.
 
Well the second stage of beach renovation is about to start. Here's the details that went out to the community. 
 
 

Following the successful completion of Stage One of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation project (the Northern Parkland), Stage Two progress is continuing.

Stage Two includes the Central Meeting Place which encompasses 6,500 square metres of beachfront parkland near the Brisbane Road entry point to Mooloolaba Esplanade.

As a result of extensive community engagement in 2022, the community’s chosen design for the Central Meeting Place will be a place to arrive, meet, gather, celebrate and connect with nature and each other.

It features a new shaded event and meeting space, open grassed areas, a viewing deck, new beach showers and toilets (to replace the ageing Loo with a View amenities), landscaping, public artwork, a new coastal pathway, and a terraced seawall with wide steps which double as beachside seating with plants and shade trees.

A key focus of Stage Two is improving accessibility to the foreshore and beach, particularly for people using wheelchairs, mobility devices, prams and the vision impaired.

 

 

The Central Meeting Place will feature a ‘Changing Places’ facility for the convenience of people with high support needs and a new all- abilities access ramp to the beach.

Stage Two works will also provide enhanced protection from the future impacts of climate change for Mooloolaba’s public spaces, foreshore, roads and underground services.

This project is delivering world class facilities for residents and visitors, as befitting Mooloolaba’s reputation as a premier tourism destination. It is helping to ensure that Mooloolaba is ‘ready’ for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when the Sunshine Coast will host a range of events, many in close proximity to Mooloolaba.

Alex Headland Walkway 

Plans are also afoot to continue the cycle and walkway along Alex Headland (M2M)  and additionally to construct a walkway on the headland. 

 

 

 

DV Connect - who knew?

Been a few weeks since DV connect spoke to the club, but great to see that members are still following up and supporting th egreat work that Ashton and his team are doing. Some members have purchased boxes for their work and apartment blocks to continue the recycling of phones and so getting the phones as a lifeline to this women (mostly) affected by DV. You know who you are, well done you. 
 
 
Some members were able to bring along mobile phones, following up on last weeks talk from Ashton at DV connect. Others have got collection boxes or arranged collection boxes for spots around the coast. There have reached out to potential supporters of DV connect  a la organisation who turn over a lot of mobile phones. Well done everyone. 
 
and new member Les, reached out to Apple in Chermside where there's a bit of a relationship and received this promising response. If it happens, great, if not then no matter well done everyone for brining DV connect to the attention of potential suppliers. 
From: Chermside Business <chermsidebusiness@apple.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2023 2:39 PM
To: Leslie Ross <scmg1@icloud.com>
Cc: Ashton Wood <ashton@dvsafephone.org>; chermside@apple.com
Subject: Re: Business Customer - Sport Career Mentor Group Pty Ltd ( 18000002563851 ) DV Safe Phone Charity
 
Hi Leslie,
 
Thanks for your email.
 
It’s great to hear you took a lot away from Ashton’s presentation around DV Safe Phones - it’s an incredible initiative.
 
While we are limited in our retail business channel to support your query, I’ve reached out to our Business Development Manager so we can get you in touch with the right teams.
 
I will update you once I’ve heard back and pass on your details with the information you’ve provided.
 
Please don’t hesitate to reach out for anything further in the meantime.

Kind regards,
 
Shina Alayon
Business Expert
Apple Chermside 
 
...and here's last weeks article as an aide memoir. (thats French for "knot in handkerchief").smiley
 
 
Our guest speaker is well known to the club, but who knew that starting to clear out your garage would lead to the creation of an extraordinary life saving organisation? For those of us who can remember pre-Covid, we related to Ashton being in lockdown and looking for something to do. That led to a clean out of his garage, and a phone call to community minded Queensland policewomen, Janine Fulton,  which led to the discovery about how important it is for folks (predominately women) needing to have an escape route from domestic violence, in the form of a secret mobile phone. Why? because the mobile phone is often the first thing taken or smashed to prevent a victim calling out for help.
 
The garage in Buderim that started it all..
 
 
 
 
How many phones were needed on the Sunshine Coast? ..he wondered?.... Hundreds and and every month. Stunned, and a bit overwhelmed, Ashton and his volunteer team tackled the huge task, and with the support of King IT and others, including 2 Rotarians on the DV Connect board, they are now a critical and important part of addressing the impacts of domestic violence in the region. How many folks are affected in Australia? Try 2,000,000.
 
 
Where are these victime? Everywhere. We know from several tragic events in our own region, that no one is immune. But did you know that people living in remote areas were 24 TIMES as likely to be hospitalised for domestic violence than folks in major cities. 
 
So how does this all work and how can Rotary help?
 
 
 
 
So next time you see a DV Connect, safe phone donation box, then make a mental note to dig out that old phone (needs to be 4G) and pop it in the box with the cable and charger, and take a note of the address for donations, so that Ashton and his team of volunteers can keep this amazing Sunshine Coast going and spreading the good work. 
 
PS. post the meeting President Tony received this gracious note from Ashton. 
 
From: Ashton Wood <ashton@dvsafephone.org
Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2023 11:05 AM
To: Tony Freeman <freemanmarketing@bigpond.com>
Subject: RE: Ashton Wood as potential Guest Speaker
 
Hi Tony,
 
Just a quick note to thank you for inviting me to speak at your Rotary breakfast on Wednesday, I had a great time and met lots of people who were at the original launch in Maroochydore and some new faces too!
 
From Monday the following opportunities have come up.
  1. Phone collection boxes to go in at IFYS (we have been providing safe phones to them for a couple of years already)
  2. Possible connection to Apple for phone donations.
  3. Possible connection to Officeworks for phone collections.
 
Please pass on my thanks to everyone.
 
Thank again!
 
Always in your corner,
 
Ashton
 
Ashton Wood
Founder & CEO, DV Safe Phone
Ph: 1300 151 939
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Some of the gang at Glass Cafe , 6th Avenue Maroochydore. Recommended. 
 
 
Breakfast for a certain member. Who? It's been suggested that its comfort food, still in mourning over a certain Ashes result. 
 
 
 
...who's breakfast is this?
 
 

Anita from Alex SLSC Community Education

Anita's been leading Alex SLSC community Ed for 20 years now, but for some of the Rotary members this was the first time that they discovered what an integral and important part of Community Ed is to Alex SLSC.
 
A certain scribe related how when he met Ashley Robinson for the first time when Rotary were moving their meetings to the Surf Club, Ashley spoke very strongly about how his goal was that Alex SLSC was to be seen as the heart of the community and not just a club on the beach. Well, Ashley and his staff have certainly achieved that. Anita spoke of the various programs and activities that the surf life savers do in the community, and how their strategy and activities are always inclusive and supportive of families from all over who come to Alex.  It was simply heartwarming to learn how the club wraps itself around the members and families  and bring back the young folks later in life to be mentors, volunteers, supporters and create an exceptional culture of inclusiveness.
 
Well, you'd have to say that Ashley had succeeded in creating something special. 
 
So  President Tony was delighted to donate $5,000 to community education at our meeting on Wednesday and especially pleased see that the funds are going towards life saving AED training equipment so that folks can learn how to resuscitate swimmers in trouble.
 
President Tony noted that the last time Anita was at the club she demonstrated resuscitation to a certain coast personality and "bon viveur" Gary Lynch, which brought back some amusing memories..... apparently. ?? 
 
President Tony (and jewellery) with the the clubs contribution to Anita manager of Community Education at Alex SLSC below
 
 
 
 

Fiona's year in Japan on Rotary Youth Exchange leads to amazing family heritage revelations

At Wednesday's breakfast meeting our honorary member, and  long serving MP, Fiona Simpson, spoke to the club about her life changing experience as a Rotary Exchange student in Japan.
 
Many Rotarians have witnessed the impact that this  amazing program has on students as they immerse themselves in their chosen country, living with Rotary families and experiencing life as a local.
 
Local examples of Rotary exchange students on the coast are many, including our Past President Skye and another chap called Mark Jamieson, aka The Mayor. 
 
But we had an extra bonus with Fiona's talk as she shared with us how she became aware of a her familial connection dating back to the early 1900's when Japan was pretty much a closed book to most of the world.
 
Little did the young Fiona know that as she set off to Japan for her youth exchange year just a few years ago while still at high school that it would lead to discoveries of family connections that endure to this day.
 
 
Can you spot Fiona at her first day in Japanese high school? Hint. Check out the hair.
 
Thank you Fiona for sharing your story with the club. 
 
 
Fiona's family has strong connections with Japan business leading back to the 1930's, and below photo of family member serving WW@ internment. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
...and more recent photo of the Fiona and sister and relations who recall the school (converted to internment camp. 
 
 
...and finally this photo of an (arranged? ) marriage with Fiona totally "dolled" up in a beautiful Kimono and head wear,  and rather a smug looking groom by her side. 
 
 
 
In a fascinating talk Fiona's immersion as a Rotary Youth Exchange student gave her an insight into how the Great Kanto Earthquake on 1923 caused such catastrophic damage to Tokyo and Yokohama.
 
: In less than one week, the 7.9 magnitude earthquake and subsequent fires annihilated most of Tokyo and virtually all of Yokohama. Moreover, the earthquake caused nearly 6.5 billion yen of damage, a remarkable figure roughly four times larger than Japan’s national budget for 1922. The earthquake disaster was also a human calamity, resulting in the deaths of more than 110,000 individuals and leaving nearly 1.5 million homeless. The destruction, dislocation, and devastation caused by the quake, in the words of Tenrikyō relief worker Haruno Ki’ichi, not only defied description, it simply “surpassed imagination.”
 
Reflecting on how the earthquake also changed Japanese society and how the life shattering events led to the people looking for security and meaning in an authoritarian regime that eventually would lead to Japan's involvement in the Second World War.
 
Thank you Fiona, a remarkable story.
 
Our great helpers
Here's some of the folks who help us with community fundraising, and who we help in the community.....
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rotary / USC Community Fund
 
 
 
Make a difference - Donate 
 
Rotary is run by volunteers and Rotary is always in the top 5 most effective charities in the world.
 
You can be sure that your dollars go to where they are needed. 
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