Club Information
Welcome to the Rotary Club of Numurkah website. Here you will be able to learn more about our dynamic Rotary Club.
Numurkah

Service Above Self

We meet In Person
Mondays at 6:30 PM
Numurkah Golf & Bowls Club
Tunnock Road
Numurkah, VIC 3636
Australia
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Bulletins
Venue Map
Rotary Club of Numurkah AGM
 

Presentation of Club Officers for 2022/2023 by President Elect Rex Shields.

President: Rex Shields.

Immediate Past President: Gary Phillips.

President Elect: Julie Andrew.

Secretary; Jennifer Rodger.

Treasurer: Stephen Mills.

Directors:

Youth: Michelle (Squish) Davis.

International: Kate Hodge.

Foundation: Geoff Austin.

Vocation: Chris Hardham.

Club Service; Gary Phillips.

Community: Julie Andrew.

Public Relations: Lou Hamon.

 
Michelle Squish Davis guest speaker
Michelle Squish Davis guest speaker Rotary meeting.
Squish advised club that she had completed her Masters of Music Therapy with Melbourne University. In 2022 will be teaching at Numurkah Primary School for two days each week and Verney Road Primary, Shepparton two days each week.
Squish then continued as guest speaker explaining that Music Therapy is a research base allied health profession in which music is used to actively support people to improve health, functioning and well-being.
It can help people of all ages to manage their physical and mental health and enhance their quality of life.
You don’t need to be musical to take part in or benefit from music therapy. Qualified music therapists plan and provide musical experiences for their clients. Each session is tailored to the needs and goals of the client.
Music Therapy improves mental health and well-being, reducing stress, improving memory, speech, communication, social skills, body movement, co-ordination and physical function.
Music Therapy is used in hospitals, schools, palliative care facilities, aged care homes, prisons and detention centres.
Squish had the members on their feet moving to the beat of a drum and providing words describing Rotary with which Squish composed and sang a song celebrating Rotary.
 
 
 
 
 
Abhinay Dolar guest speaker
 

Abhinay (Aby) Dolar newly appointed Director Clinical Services NCN Health Numurkah, was guest speaker.

Born in India, mother a nurse. Trained in India and spent 2 years as an industrial nurse. Emigrated to Australia working at Toowoomba where he undertook further studies for Bachelor of Nursing, then moved to McKay Base Hospital for 4 years, spending some time relieving staff in smaller hospitals under McKay Base.

Moved to Melbourne for business studies. MBA, working at Royal Melbourne Hospital. Returning to India to marry. Moved to Adelaide for 1 year, then to a management position at Ceduna for 2 years, managing aged care, ED and ward.

Offered management role in Coober Pedy, operating an Oodnadatta clinic. Moved to Ballarat for 4 years then Royal Melbourne Hospital as managing director of vaccination hub. Administering 2,500 vaccines a day.

From RMH moved to Numurkah after good reports.

 
42nd Annual Art & Craft Exhibition
ROTARY CLUB OF NUMURKAH 42nd ANNUAL ART & CRAFT EXHIBITION
Entry forms for the Rotary Club of Numurkah 42nd Annual Arts & Craft Exhibition are now available.
Offering $10,000 in prize money the exhibition will be staged in the Numurkah Town Hall from Friday 11th March to Monday 14th March 2022.
Entry forms are being posted to last year's exhibitors and are available from the Numurkah Visitor Information Centre and Numurkah Library.
Forms can also be found on the club's Facebook page and Website.
The Exhibition will be subject to State COVID-19 restrictions and directives.
 
 
 
 
Phil Seager guest speaker.
Returned Friday week after 4 months, 3,000km, 2,200 litres of fuel and 112 nights in van.
Set off early July for South Australia with aim to travel to Cape York. Lockdowns, border restrictions and entry permits restricted travels to Northern Territory.  Showing photos of trip, headed up Stuart Highway to such places as Finke River National Park, Gibba Plains, Devils Marbles, Tennant Creek.
Camping is magic with beautiful sunsets and great scenery. Harsh environment with corrugated roads with communication by satellite phone from high places. Encounted hundreds of vans as onto Katherine Gorge with a canoe trip along the river, Mataranka hot springs, Butterfly Gorge, Roma Gorge, Ayers Rock.
 Oldest living organism, stromatolite 3-4 billion years old, caught attention, as did petroglyphs rock carvings.
 
 
 
 
Bernie Cook & Kim Carter Guest Speakers
 
Bernie Cook grew up with beehives in the backyard of the family home. He took charge of his first hive at just 11 years of age. With over 40 years experience of caring for hives both in the backyard and on a commercial scale, he is the quintessential ‘bee whisperer’. Bernie is larger-than-life, empathic and full of stories. He is in his element when helping others experience the magical synergy between humans and bees.
Kim Carter became fascinated with bees when a neighbour’s swarm took up residence in her back yard 15 years ago. Kim has now been beekeeping for 5 years and is totally hooked. Kim is an artist and teacher who loves learning about these amazing creatures and sharing that knowledge with others.
Bernie and Kim have studied Permaculture Design and have incorporated bees as an intrinsic part of their garden system.
In January they established a company "The Art Of Bee-ing". Mission statement is"Bring bees and people together". The business creates mentoring and educating bee-keepers.
It is estimated that one third of all food consumed by humans has been pollinated by a bee. So protecting our pollinators by creating a bee-friendly garden is a move towards protecting our own food security.
Kim with her daughter has produced a colouring book, and the business is partnering with Numurkah Community Learning Centre with a range of products and training courses.
Bees are disappearing for several reasons. Colony collapse due to disorder and varroa mite, the increase use of pesticides, climate change, with bees temperature sensitive, and loss of habitat, particularly through bushfires.
Aim is to inspire people to welcome bees into their home by creating a bee friendly garden with plant diversity, plants with lots of colour, do not use pesticides, use of local native plants and provision of water.
 
 
Chris Matthews Guest Speaker
 
Chris Matthews told the club about herself and Duncan McPherson purchasing Dubuque at auction in 2013, with Duncan working full time over four years restoring the inside rooms.
Originally built in 1887 by John Claude Trengrove and his wife Sara Jane.
John was born in Cornwall, being brought to Australia as an infant settling in Geelong. John served as an apprentice in a drapery business, sent to London, then he moved to America, where he met and married Sara Jane Barnett. The couple came to Australia after the great fire of Chicago, where they lost all their possessions. 
In 1887 they moved to Numurkah and built what was to be their family residence, Lakeview, now known as Dubuque, and established the business Brown & Corke.
The house has 13ft ceilings, each room took two weeks to wash down the walls. Baltic pine ceilings with pressed metal ceiling, with a different pattern in each room. Noted to be the first house in Numurkah to have fly screens.
A lot of time, effort and love has gone into the restoration of Dubuque and it is with great pride she has been opened up to the greater community so that they can appreciate the house in all its glory.
Now open to the public as a "Bed and Breakfast", where bookings can be made for accommodation or small functions.
 
 
 
 
Fizz Mayberry Guest Speaker
 

Fizz Mayberry spoke to the club about his involvement with KidsFix Rally.

In 1998 participated in a Camp Quality Rally with a 1962 Pontiac wagon. Present Commodore last nine years. All donations go to the cause, with members of rally paying own expenses as well as car expenses. Originally Camp Quality had 5 on staff with 2 paid employees. After 15 rallies it had grown to 132 paid staff. Decided to do their own thing, starting a foundation dedicated to support sick and disadvantaged kids. First rally in 2013, from 2014 to 2020 raised over $750,000, with Board receiving requests for projects each year, with five selected.

Rally provides an instruction "Bible" with directions but no maps.

Last 2 years still fundraising as committed to projects, although no rally was able to be held.

Numurkah hospital has been the recipient with a children's playground and portable ultrasound equipment.

Other recipients have been Broken Hill Hospital, Gympie Hospital, Dental Outreach, Western Area Hospital NSW, Shoalhaven Hospital, Milton Ulladulla Hospital, Latrobe Regional Hospital, Dubbo Base Hospital, Bendigo Health.

Make many life-long friends, with participation the reward.

 
 
 
Lou Hamon guest speaker
Utilising "Share Screen" on Zoom, Lou Hamon embarked on a voyage of discovery as he demonstrated to members the ClubRunner Rotary Club of Numurkah website, explaining its features and resources.
 
 
 
Marissa Daly guest speaker.
 
Marissa Daly, Communication Officer with NCN Health was guest speaker via Zoom.
Grew up in Kilmore at Assumption College where her parents were boarding masters, had access to school facilities.
Spent weekends with friends at Berrigan, where her parents later bought and renovated an old church in 1990, moving to Berrigan in 1995.
Gained an arts degree at Monash University, then headed off to France for 2 years as an au pair. 
Returning to Australia working as a journalist with Southern Riverina News in Finley. Role of newspaper important and the role of a journalist has its responsibilities.
Moved to Mackay in Queensland, where she loved the weather, working as a communications officer in a agency for remote nursing.
February last year returned and joined NCN Health as communications officer.
Purpose is to bring the three campuses together, aligning communications, pamphlets, websites etc. The task to bring three together as one.
Positive of COVID pandemic is it has brought staff together facing the challenges of the pandemic.
Role is to develop a strategic strategy of forming relationships with communities, although difficult with social distancing at the moment.
 
Clare Keenan guest speaker.
 
Clare Keenan, CEO Moira Shire, spoke to the club on the "Rise of ISIS in the Middle East".
Employed by Accuweather in the United States met with 4 Dubai business men in Las Vegas seeking agents to expand business in the Middle East.
In 2012 went to Qatar, working from the Libya TV offices. At that time hard line Islamic parties commenced creating uprising and revolution, with many ex-pats planning to leave. With temperatures rising to 50 degrees Ramadan commenced with alcoholic parties, as alcohol not consumed during Ramadan. Ramadan a time for family and feasting.
Friends deported, texts censored so after 12 months returned home to Barcelona.
Enticed back to Jordan to work for Arab 24 Media, the largest anti-ISIS propaganda media outlet with 200 men in the war zones.
The Islamic State, or ISIS, is a militant organization that emerged as an offshoot of al Qaeda in 2014. It quickly took control of large parts of Iraq and Syria, raising its black flag in victory and declaring the creation of a caliphate and imposing strict Islamic rule.
Clare was moved to Aqada for safety, then Istanbul then moved to Australia.
Clare told her fascinating story of her experience working in the Middle East, with detail and humour, engrossing a captive audience.
 
 
Wayne Limbrick guest speaker.
 
Wayne Limbrick commenced by updating the club on Umoja Orphanage, Kenya. Completion of second house held up with COVID. House will accommodate 12-14 children, bringing the total of children at Umoja to 25-26. Children are safe and well. Wayne & Pam had planned to visit this year, but more likely next year, when painters will be required to finish the second house.
 
Wayne then spoke about being a Moira Shire Councilor.
Always interested in the community, serving on various community organisation committees, in 1990's served as a councilor on Nathalia Shire.
Considered time was right to stand for Moira Shire, and was elected number three of the nine councilors.
Having been involved with local tourism for 25 year, serving as Western Moira chair, was frustrated with consultation by Moira Shire.
Wayne's main concerns were water security, changing land use, impact of waste management. Easy to sit back and complain, but felt need to be pro-active. Campaigning during COVID required a different approach.
Challenge in first 6 months, a baptism of fire, spending 3-4 days a week, research, reading, meetings.
Major Shire projects in hand include Multi Sports Complex Yarrawonga, Yarrawonga Library, Numurkah Flood Mitigation Plan, which with the appointment of a project manager is now proceeding. A $25M project which will take some time.
Tourism Advisory important to local communities, need to lobby Government on water management, need to be more responsible with waste and resource management. As contamination is high, introduction of 4 bin system to get glass out of other bins.
Aim in 4 year term is to improve consultation process, it is a two way process. Council should be respected.
 
 
Carl Walters guest speaker.
 
Carl Walters from Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority was guest speaker.
The Catchment Authority guides efforts to ensure land and water resources are protected and enhanced as well as improving the region’s social wellbeing, environmental quality and productive capacity in a sustainable manner.
The Broken Creek has had issues.
Catchment Authority responsible for delivery of irrigation water and quality of water in the Broken Creek water supply.
Broken Creek fed from channel system from Murray River with a flow rate of 400-500 ML/d daily.
Environmental water added from Goulburn and Murray Rivers. Water quality improving in Broken Creek with creek kept fresher with flows.
During winter reverts to natural state with low levels exposing mud flats, flows restored with irrigation.
Ongoing removal of barriers to fish passage. Mechanical clearing not allowed, by keeping water flow and quality improving, weeds kept under better control.
 
Zoom Meeting
Due to lockdown another virtual meeting via Zoom led by President Gary Phillips.
 
 
 
 
Wendy Raleigh Guest Speaker
 
Wendy Raleigh from Orange Door was guest speaker. Wendy grew-up in Undera then spent 30 years in Queensland, 26 years policing.
2015 Royal Commission into Family Violence made 227 recommendations, which have been accepted by Government.
Findings were that agencies were struggling to support women and children, with victims not knowing where to go for services, and perpetrators were not kept in view. Victims often having to re-tell, and relive their traumatic experience over and over again to different agencies. 
2016 Road Map to Recovery aim was to keep families together.
Orange Door aim is to provide safe consistent approach with one visible entry point with a  wholistic, integrated approach.
28th April opened doors in Shepparton, serving 5 LGA, Moira, Mitchell, Strathbogie, Shepparton and Murrindindi, at 210 Corio Street Shepparton.
Staff of 65 building to 80.
Out Posting of staff planned to child care health service, and other services.
In Reach: Agencies will use building to assist clients, such as legal aid, financial services, mental health services.
Six agencies set up in Orange Door working together to provide a service no longer fragmented.
Screening/Triage Team work out predominant factor which could be housing, health, finance.
Assessment Teams plan referrals and case management.
Practice Leaders provide insight and overview.
60% referrals from police, remaining referrals from professionals.
Unique service with six work-forces coming together in the one space.
 
Nick Raleigh guest speaker
 
Guest Speaker Nick Raleigh spoke to the club on Go Farm, an Australian owned agriculture investor and developer.
Purpose is to improve Australian agriculture, create wealth for investors, generate a positive impact for properties, communities and industries.
Aim to select, acquire and develop each asset.
In Victoria, the Murray above the choke, offers lower water risk, lower development costs and more headroom for development.
Strategy is to aggregate, re-configure, re-position and develop.
Development process entails, property, water, soil, people, to develop production and profitability.
Go Farm has one of southern Australia largest, most secure and low cost portfolios of irrigated land and water.
Proposed crops in Moira Shire include almonds, mandarins and broccoli.
Institutional investors and their managers are now awakening to the opportunities in the Murray Valley and Goulburn Valley, with pace of investment gathering momentum.
 
 
 
Paul Harris Fellow presentation.
 
District Governor Nominee David McPherson presented a Paul Harris Award to Jacque Phillips.
Jacque joined the Numurkah Rotary Club in 2009 and served as President 2017.
 
 
Stephen Mills was presented with a Sapphire pin.
 
 
 
Jack Duncan Vocational Service Award

 
The Jack Duncan Vocational Service Award was presented to Debbie Oliver.
Debbie Oliver is in her fifth year as principal of Numurkah Primary School. As principal Debbie has implemented various initiatives around teaching and learning, student well-being, and generally fostering a desire to learn in all students.
 
 
 
Col McPherson Community Service Award
The Col McPherson Community Service Award was presented to John Decker, pictured with Community Service Director Julie Andrew and Duncan McPherson.
John has dedicated the last 44 years as a member of the Numurkah SES unit, with a desire to help his local community, he has attended hundreds of incidents. John has been involved in the mentorship of the L to P driving program for 10 years.
 
 
 
Induction of Gary Phillips
District Governor Nominee David McPherson inducted Gary Phillips as President 2021-22, pictured with Past President Jennifer Rodger.
 
In her President's Report Jennifer Rodger summed up the year by saying "Our results this year have exceeded expectations and are reflective of a combined effort and couldn't have been achieved without the involvement of each and every member, and for that, you all have my eternal appreciation and gratitude".
 
In his incoming President's Address Gary said it was a humbling experience, and indeed a privilege and great responsibility.
His aim is to nurture club and re-engage with the community, exploring ways to serve our community together.
 
 
 
Housetide Support Services
Kellie King and Daniel House were guest speakers from Housetide Support Services.
 
Kellie King introduced herself, living in Numurkah for 10 years with two children with disabilities. Struggled to access support services.
 
Daniel House, based in Albury with 15 years involvement in aged care, disability support, youth and homelessness. Starting in February 2019, now have seven respite houses and 12 vehicles.
Some of services offered:
  • In Home Self Care - Assistance in the home with showering, feeding, household duties and more.
  • Assistance In The Community - Assistance with trips to the shops, cinema or just getting pampered.
  • Appointments - Assistance with transport to and from appointments and attendance if required.
  • Short Term Accommodation - 24 hour overnight respite care. Either in home or out of home.
  • Holiday Assistance - 24 hour assistance from day trips to extended holidays.
Seven Respite Houses provide double beds, WIFI, Netflix, ducted heating and cooling and outdoor activities. Houses available for adults and kids on weekdays, weekends, short term. medium term and long term.
 
 
Informal pizza night.
PRESIDENT JENNIFER RODGER welcomed members to an informal night of fellowship at the Numurkah Bowls Club.
Due to COVID restrictions the planned indoor bowls competition with the Nathalia Rotary Club was postponed to later in the year.
An informal, pizza night was held, followed by a combined board meeting of this year's board and next year's board to discuss disbursements for the year.
 
 
 
 
 
Numurkah Ukulele Club

GUEST SPEAKER: Numurkah Ukulele Club.

KATE: Established 3 years ago bringing people together with a common interest. Group has 25 members and supports community with performances.

CHRIS: Good for health and wellbeing, relaxes, improves breathing and circulation.

ANNE: 57 performances in 2019, with COVID only 3 via Zoom in 2020. Have performed in Numurkah, Cobram, Nathalia, Strathmerton and Shepparton, mainly at aged care facilities.

The club entertained members with a medley of numbers.

 
Club Assembly
 
President Jennifer and President Elect Gary using the white board listed what the club does and what the club could do.
Listed under "Would Like To Do" were:
Golf Day.
Environmental - clean up lake.
Welcome to Numurkah function.
Business information board at free camping sites.
Drive showcasing district to medical students.
Social Activities: visit zoo, BBQ's.
Vocational Site Visits.
With Shire hold public meeting on lake.
 
 
Jacque Phillips guest speaker.
Jacque Phillips CEO NCN Health was guest speaker. NCN moving from COVID reactionary to vaccination. Hesitancy was real but demand increasing. NCN Cobram a vaccination centre able to do 200 per day. G.V. Health centre at McIntosh Centre at Shepparton Showgrounds. For over 50, two jabs, 12 weeks apart. Flu vaccine 2 weeks prior or after.
Under 50 preferred vaccine Pfizer with prioritized vaccination. Under 50 can consent for Astra Venica, an informed personal choice.
NCN Strategic Plan: 1.7% aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders. 18.3% born overseas. 12.1% language other than English. 47 median age with 25% 65+. Close knit community 74.8% . 7.4% diabetics. 32% obese, 22% smokers. 11.8% experiencing stress. 55% not physical exercise.
Over 3 campuses NCN Health has 116 aged care beds with 95 - 100% occupancy. 34 acute beds with 2 operating theatres.
 
 
 
Half Penny key rings presented by Garry McNamara
 
In a nice gesture, Garry McNamara presented each member with a half penny coin, minted in the year of the members birth, which he had fashioned into a key ring. Pictured with Lorraine Greenwood. Thanks Garry.
 
 
Garry McNamara Guest Speaker
 
Garry McNamara acted as chairman and guest speaker.
Left school early and became an apprentice jockey, on becoming too big worked on race courses.
In 1972 called up for National Service, although wanting to drive large vehicles was taught how to cook.
On discharge worked in racing industry in Ballarat for 12 months, then Brisbane for 3 months before enlisting in Army.
Posted to Townsville promoted to Lance Corporal, posted to Portsea for 2 years. Completed a clerk administration course and posted to Army Reserve in Hobart for 2 years and promoted to Sergeant. Next post was Lithgow ammunition's depot. Promoted to Staff Sergeant and posted to Bendigo, promoted to Warrant Officer and posted to Broadmeadows, after 3 years posted to Port Moresby PNG for 2 years.
Promoted to Warrant Officer 2 and posted to Canberra, then Darwin for 2 years in Armored Regiment, finishing in Defence Public Service at Lavington for 4 years.
 
 
 
Vocations Night
Chairman John Watson introduced three members who spoke on their vocation.
JUDY McDONALD:
Desired to take up nursing, but not to be, staying home to care for sister. Change of direction with secretarial work, then another change to computerised book-keeping. Husband died of cancer at 57 years. Met Rex Shields, which was interesting and moved to Numurkah. Still doing books for son's business.
Chairman John Watson introduced three members who spoke on their vocation.
CHRIS HARDHAM:
Grew up in Katunga on a dairy farm. Graduated from Bendigo Teachers College, first school Knox Park, brand new but no resources, Yarragon Park before heading off overseas for 12 months. Returned to teaching at Heatherdale, met Ross and moved to Selby. Spent 9 years away from teaching with family, returning to Kalista then 141/2 years at Wandin Yallock before returning home. Relief teaching at Numurkah Secondary College retiring at the end of last year.
 
MICHELLE (SQUISH) DAVID:
Grew up in Western Suburbs of Melbourne, completed Year 12 in 1999, graduated with a Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education. In 2005 came to Numurkah as Drama and Music teacher at Numurkah Secondary College, living the first 12 months with Dorothy & Peter Heard. Took 12 months leave returning 3 days and NSC and 2 days Guthrie Street Primary School. Then commenced 5 days at Numurkah Primary School, at present 4 days with 1 day studying Masters of Music Therapy.
Stressed the importance in having children read and engage in conversation. Music Therapy is a tool in mental health, youth and aged care.
 
Love Your Sister
Love Your Sister featuring Samuel Johnson presented by the Rotary Club of Numurkah with snack box dinner prepared by Numurkah Secondary College students.
 
 
 
 
 
 
RYPEN
Malcolm Watt chair RYPEN - Rotary Youth Program for Enrichment, first became interested in RYPEN a weekend program for young people in 1990. 
Teenagers today benefit greatly from opportunities to develop "life skills" and motivation to help them cope with the challenges of a very competitive future.
Pressure is put on students to perform academically and their results are the benchmark of success. However other skills are needed for the next stage of a student's growth, be that further education or the workplace.
During an intensive residential weekend, young people aged approximately 14 to 16 years will develop increased motivation, improved life skills, better self-image, pride in themselves and an understanding of setting and achieving goals.  At the same time, participants are interacting with peers from different backgrounds, and different parts of our district, improving their teamwork skills and having fun!!  All this done in an informal atmosphere, where questions and debates are encouraged.
Waranga Basin was the venue for the weekend camps from 1991 to 1995. Now in its 31st year, and 27th year at Lake Nihacoote.
This year 21 students from 12 clubs attended, with incredible feedback.
 
Chairman Allen read a letter from Nathan, one of two students sponsored by the Rotary Club of Numurkah.
Learnt so many new skills, try everything and teamwork. Rock climbing wall a challenge, made new friends, thoroughly enjoyed the camp, only dislike was leaving.
 
 
 
Lesley Hills guest speaker
 
Lesley Hills, born in Yorkshire, nearly a "local" after 27 years in Deniliquin. In 1991 spent a year in Sydney, returning 18 months later to a dairy farm in Blighty.
Three years ago fell in love with yoga and trained as a Laughter Yoga Leader. Has sessions at two aged care facilities, a pre-school and a community group, youngest 3 years, oldest 103 years.
Multitude of health benefits from laughter exercises. 10 minutes of continuous laughter equivalent of 30 minutes on a rowing machine. Laughter for health and wellbeing improves mental and physical health, lowers stress levels, improves lung capacity and regulates blood pressure.
 
 
 
 
 
 
41st Annual Art & Craft Exhibition
DIVERSE CREATIVITY ON DISPLAY
 
The 41st Annual Art & Craft Exhibition was officially opened by Rotary District Governor Bruce Anderson, who congratulated the Rotary Club of Numurkah for staging an excellent exhibition.
The art judge, Geoff Paynter, commented on the diversity, creativity and the technical abilities displayed by the artists.
Geoff announced the winners in each section he had selected with comments on the artwork.
Best in Show was awarded to Tim Redfern from Mulwala, “Jukaliatas”, “Large, impressive image with an interesting interchange of shape and line, based on natural forms”, were Geoff’s comments.
Runner Up was “Impression” by Sally Sidebottom from Tallygaroopna. Geoff commented “Spontaneous feel to this painting, strong contrasts with shape and colour”.
Best Watercolour awarded to Be Gosler  with “Fun in the Sun”, “Creative interpretation, good use of watercolour medium”.
Best Oil was “Tranquil Autumn” by Do Noble from Doveton. Geoff’s comments “Reads well, good impression, with soft use of colour”.
Best Pastel awarded to Linda Finch from Donvale with “Waiting for a Friend”. “Great use of pastel - broad in application. Subject based, which carries well”.
Best Acrylic was “summer Waratahs” by Melanie Jamieson from Finley.
Best Pencil was awarded to “Leucadendron” by Louise Adams from Temora. “ A creative image with excellent execution”.
Best Regional Artist was Janet Tett from Yarrawonga with Mystic Mountains”. “Great overall in use of colour and creative interpretation”.
Moira Arts & Culture Inc. Encouragement Award was awarded to Victor Casha from Cobram with “Playing Hide & Seek”. “Technically well done with a sentimental attachment”.
Photographic Award was awarded to Dennis Rickard from Numurkah with “Patterns”. “Great contrast, with natural patterns.”
Claire Reid was the craft judge stating precise skill was very evident – the entries were judged on the skill of the craftsperson, not just their aesthetic qualities. Claire also noted contributors to the show continue to display ever improving skills.
The winners were:
Fibres.Threads and Beads Award was awarded to Margaret Blackburn from Burramine South with a mauve crochet beaded milk jug cover. “This piece is exquisitely delicate and precise”.
Quilt Award was awarded to Ann Fagan from Katunga. Tribute to William. The quilt is a tribute
 To William a fabric and furnishings designer. Ann has used elements of his designs with close attention to detail in maintaining points and seam intersections.
Craft Award was awarded to Vita Janssens from Koonoomoo with “Violet China Painted Plate”. “A delicate combination of back and foreground elements as well as a subtle wash”.
Best Craft Entry was awarded to Ann Fagan for her quilt “Tribute to William”.
Chairman of the Art & Craft Committee of the Rotary Club of Numurkah said “the club was incredibly pleased with the standard of work on display and the attendance numbers during the weekend. A team effort from members ensured the exhibition was such a success under COVID requirements”.
 
 
 
 
The World's Longest Taxi Fare
 
Peter Heard spoke to the club on "The Worlds' Longest Taxi Fare" an account of his grandfathers brother Charlie Heard driving Miss Ada Beal and two companions to Darwin and back in 1930.
Charlie Heard was born in Rochester and at 18 served with AIF in France, settled in Geelong in 1928 and established a taxi business in 1930 with a Hudson tourer.
Accepting the fare, Charlie modified the car by fitting extra tanks for petrol and water, spare parts and coconut matting.
Departed June 30, ladies had shopping excursions at every stop. In Port August Charlie fitted extra springs, staying overnight at hotels, stations or set up camp. Charlie had organised petrol to be at designated spots during the trip, and used a compass to keep on course. 
By the time they reached Alice Springs, people had heard, by bush telegraph, of the excursion, and came out to greet them.
Katherine to Darwin usually undertaken by rail, but Charlie decided to continue by car. Reached Darwin with hot baths and comfortable beds. After several days commenced return trip via Brisbane and Sydney.
On fifth day reached NT, Queensland border, then onto Brisbane and the east coast. Travelling along the Pacific Highway to Sydney Final leg through Gippsland to Melbourne and Geelong.
The Hudson weighed 3 tons, travelled 7,003 miles, used 505 gallons of petrol and only had one puncture over the trip lasting 3 months.
Out of proceeds Charlie purchased a garage, passing away in 1951.
 
 
Geoff Limper & Bruce McEwan
GEOFF LIMNER & BRUCE MCEWAN from the Rotary Club of Box Hill Central spoke on "Operation Cleft" which provides free cleft lip and cleft palate repair surgery for underprivileged children in Bangladesh.
More than 5,000 children are born with  cleft lip or cleft palate each year. Through the generous support of Rotary Clubs, over 12,000 cleft repair surgeries since inception of the program in 2005.
Geoff presented Paul Harris Fellowships to John Watson and Linda Watson for their generous support of the program.
 
Wilow Hoskin guest speaker.
Wilow Hoskin told of her "most amazing" year in Finland as a Rotary Exchange Student.
Using a power point and video presentation Wilow showed pictures of her 12 months in Finland.
Lived in a town of 8,000 with two host families.
Due to COVID could not undertake much travel, but visited Lapland in winter, ice-sating and skiing, -18 degrees. Visited again in summer, no snow but hiked.
Summer sun does not set, winter sun does not rise.
Schools are set up for 3 year levels. Attended a traditional high school dance, similar to our deb balls,
Favorite food: reindeer soup, blueberry pie, bread cheese & cloudberries, black pudding.
 
Jeff Blackley guest speaker.
Jeff Blackley, president of the Numurkah Historical Society was guest speaker.
The Numurkah Historical Society has been part of the Numurkah Community since 1964.
The vision of the Historical Society is to be a vibrant welcoming organisation committee to preserve artefacts and records of the past for current and future generations.
Using a power point display Jeff showed artefacts and links to the past providing background stories.
  • Aim: To collect, store and/or display and use for research.
  • Society is a Public Records of Victoria Place of Deposits.
  • Record interviews with older members of the community provide insight into our past.
  • Window into History collate artefacts to share our history.
  • Share specific research information with public.
At the moment: stocktaking, digitising of the collection, labelling of display items, regular change of displays with more permanent displays in other rooms, permanent record of our servicemen, opening up of the breezeway to the public, setting up a railway pergola, opening up a tool shed.
How you can help: visit, spread the word, donate items, join the Society, helping with displays or cataloguing.
History is about people, locations and artefacts etc, used to tell the story of people and how they lived and interacted.
 
 
Cemetery Walk
Rotary members met at the Numurkah Cemetery for a Cemetery Walk led by Bernadette Steward, secretary of the Numurkah Wunghnu Cemetery Trust.
The evening commenced with a BBQ.
Numurkah Cemetery established in 1883 and has 8,000 graves. In 1978 Lawn Cemetery established, which is nearly full, but trend is towards cremation.
Community consultation to be held on future expansion and development.
Right of Interment Holder has say on use of plot and erection of memorial.
Role of Trust at funerals to ensure correct person is being buried. During COVID ensure capacity restrictions and recording of attendees.
Bernadette then led a walk through the cemetery with fascinating stories of the graves, particularly those relating to the early history of Numurkah, with one unannounced visitor.
 
 
 
 
Australia Day 2021

In lieu of a regular meeting Rotary Club members provided the BBQ at the Numurkah Australia Day Celebrations.

Photos courtesy Mark McNamara.

 
 
 
Combined meting with Lions Club
 

Traditional first meeting of the year combined with Lions Club at Numurkah Bowls Club.

Lions Club president Keith Nicholl welcomed members, wishing all a happy new year.

A delicious meal was served by the Lions Club, in a relaxed evening of fellowship.

 
 
 

 

 
 
 
ROTARY CLUB OF NUMURKAH 41st ANNUAL ART & CRAFT EXHIBITION
Entry forms for the Rotary Club of Numurkah 41st Annual Arts & Craft Exhibition are now available.
Offering $10,000 in prize money the exhibition will be staged in the Numurkah Town Hall from Friday 5th March to Monday  8th March.
Entry forms have been posted to last year's exhibitors and are available from the Numurkah Visitor Information Centre and Numurkah Library, and Cobram Visitor Information Centre.
Forms can also be found on the club's Facebook page and Website.
Exhibition subject to Sate COVID-19 restrictions and directives.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Christmas Break-Up
Glorious weather, excellent  company and a delicious gourmet dinner prepared by Gary Phillips, Geoff Holmes an Fay Holmes with salads and desserts supplied by members, made for a fitting climax to a year like no other.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Robyn Sprunt & Catherine Church guest speakers
 
Robyn Sprunt Manager Primary Health and Catherine Church Director of Clinical Services from NCN Health Numurkah on local experience with COVID-19.
Community Testing Clinic:
  • Daily testing of symptomatic clients. Over 1,000 tests since June.
  • Re-usable masks, 4,000  distributed to vulnerable community members.
  • Shepparton outbreak 14th October testing team supported Shepparton.
Communication is the key:
  • Clear and concise messaging.
  • CEO daily updates.
  • Department huddles.
  • Letters to clients.
  • Phone calls to clients.
  • Facebook information..
  • Information sessions at local pharmacies and pamphlets and information in stores,
Impact on Community:
  • Increase in anxiety, fear and worry.
  • Increase incident of mental health issues.
  • Increase in family violence.
  • Decrease in routine health screening.
  • Less theatre presentations.
  • Increase in social isolation.
Continued service and support:
  • All services have been maintained.
  • Alternate models of care - telehealth.
Group based activities:
  • All group based activities ceased.
  • Alternate models of care explored.
  • Clients more socially isolated.
  • Increase in mental health concerns.
  • Increase in support - counselling/psychology.
Supporting the community:
  • Food hampers.
  • Newspaper deliveries.
  • Blood test in the home.
  • Flu vaccination in community.
  • Linking clients with services.
Moving to COVID Normal:
  • Group based services return.
  • Increase in face to face service.
  • Visiting outreach services.
Aged Care:
  • Visitors return.
  • Outings recommenced.
  • Group activities recommenced.
  • Volunteer program recommence.
Mental health and wellbeing:
  • Caring for both residents and staff.
  • Balancing new normal.
  • Daily screening of residents.
  • Monthly COVID swabbing of staff.
  • Outbreak management plans in place.
 
 
 
 
Club AGM
The AGM of the Numurkah Rotary Club was chaired by Gary Phillips.
Election of office bearers for 2021-2022 by ballot.
  • President: Gary Phillips
  • Secretary: Jennifer Rodger
  • Treasurer: Jeff Buzza.
 
 
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Rotary Links
 
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Club Executives & Directors
President
Gary Phillips
President Elect
Rex Shields
Treasurer
Jeff Buzza
Secretary
Jennifer Rodger
Community Service
Julie Andrew
Vocational Services
Chris Hardham
International Service
Kate Hodge
Rotary Foundation
Chris Sutton
Immediate Past President
Jennifer Rodger
Club Service
Rex Shields
Public Relations
Lou Hamon OAM
New Generations
Michelle Davis
Sergeant-at-Arms
Michelle Davis
Photo Albums
Club Changeover 2021
Love Your Sister
Art Show 2021
Cemetery Walk
Australia Day 2021
Combined meeting with Lions 2021
Christmas 2020
Changeover Meeting 2020
Tinja Nakki Farewell
Members Dinner Parties
Art Show 2020
Rotary Lions BBQ 2020
Christmas 2019
Cactus Country
Swimming Pool Working Bee & BBQ
DG Visit Lift the Lid
Lift the LId BBQ
1st Baulkamaugh Scout Hall Visit
Ian Murphy Memorial Debate 2019
Club Changeover 2019
2019 Combined Services Dinner
2019 Business Breakfast
4WD 2019
Routley's Orchard
Art Show 2019
Home Hardware Visit
Les Lawrence Shield 2019
Kinnairds Wetland Walk
2019 Combined Meeting with Lions
Christmas 2018
Padman Stops
G.V. Water
Changeover 2018
4WD TRIP 2018
Katunga Fresh Visit 2018
38th Annual Art Show
Rotary-Lions BBQ 2018
Christmas 2017
60th Anniversary
Ian Murphy Debate Sept. 2017
Club Changeover 2017
Rotary Breakfast 2017
4WD Trip 2017
Art & Craft Exhibition 2017
Les Lawrence Shield 2017
Australia Day 2017
Changeover 2016
Sam Bailey Breakfast
4WD Trip 2016 (Ivan.)
4WD Trip 2016 (Joan)
Bonshaw
Art Show 2016
COMBINED BBQ WITH LIONS
Christmas at Brookfield 2015
Mt Bogong Hike 2015
Ulupna Island Camp 2015
DOOKIE VISIT 2015
Umoja Orphanage, Kenya
Numurkah Primary School Visit
Club Changeover 2015
Turia Pitt Breakfast
Les Lawrence Shield 2015
4WD Trip 2015
CARDWELL'S COACH VISIT
Art & Craft Exhibition 2015
K181 Locomotice Re-paint
Numurkah District Health Inspection
Combined Meeting with The Lions Club 2015
BENSTUD Visit
Ulupna Island Camp 2014
Dookie Family Day
Katunga Fresh
DG Visit 2014
Numurkah Mob Memorial
Rotary Visit R.S.L.
Allen Ku
Club Changeover 2014
Carolyn Creswell Breakfast Presentation(2)
Carolyn Creswell Breakfast Presentation
Les Lawrence Shield 2014
Rotarians at Art Show 2014
4WD Trip 2014
Fencing Working Bee
Art & Craft Exhibition 2014
4WD Trip 2013
Combined Meeting with The Lions Club
Christmas Meeting
Historical Society
Ulupna Island Camp 2013
Art & Craft Exhibition
Timor Leste Christmas boxes
DG Visit 2013
Club History Photo Album
Upcoming Events
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