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
District Site
Bulletins
Venue Map
Donny Sofra and Craig Brown guest speakers          
Donny and Craig spoke to the club about the inundation of Kaarimba and district, following the Loch Gary debacle.
Early 1900's levee constructed along Goulburn River to protect lower river plains, with the construction of Loch Gary to regulate the flows down the river.
When flood levels reach 10.6m at Shepparton, practice is to pull bars within 24 hours at Loch Gary. This should have taken place early Sunday but through lack of communication, delayed till late afternoon, by which time it was unsafe to pull the bars.
Could have been avoided, with water breaking through the levee and flooding crops and houses.
After levee failed, sandbagging by the small community commenced, the number of volunteers increased rapidly with the Waaia Football Club members and others joining.
On Monday evacuation order issued for Kaarimba. Volunteers increased to over 100, filling 17,000 bags in 4 days. Bags also sent to Barmah, Picola and Nathalia.
The Rotary Club of Numurkah took on the task of feeding the volunteers, which was gratefully accepted.
 
 
 
Historical Society visit.

On behalf of the Numurkah Historical society Jeff Blackley welcomed members of the Rotary Club of Numurkah and Historical Society members. Planned to be an outdoor meeting but held indoor due to the weather.

The Historical Society has undergone many changes over the last 4 - 5 years.

The Society is proud of its work in updating displays with the addition of a tool shed, police cells, witness box, railway display, laundry, bathroom, upstairs costume display, dairy shed.

This year the Society has collaborated with other organisations such as Rotary and RSL with the Soldier Settlers Memorial, Numurkah Secondary College year 8 and 9 local history elective with tours and visits, a Society bus tour and walking tour of historical points of interest, with a brochure produced, and Show Us Your Wheels with displays and cobber cars.

The museum has been visited by school groups, S.A. historical group, reunion groups from High School. Cemetry walks are well attended, and people researching family history.

In 2025 Numurkah and Wunghnu celebrate their 150 year celebration on gazetting as towns. The Society is keen to mark the occasion and will soon call a public meeting of organisations and groups to gauge interest and form a committee to plan the event.

The Historical Society is planning to undertake the placement of plaques on historical sites.

 
 
 
 
 
Rotary 43rd Annual Art & Craft Exhibition
 
ROTARY CLUB OF NUMURKAH 43rd ANNUAL ART & CRAFT EXHIBITION
Entry forms for the Rotary Club of Numurkah 43rd 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 10th March to Monday 13th March 2023.
Entry forms are being posted to last year's exhibitors and are available from the Numurkah Visitor Information Centre and Numurkah Library and Numurkah Home Hardware.
Forms can also be found on the club's Facebook page and Website.
 
Sally Rose & Trudi Pratt guest speakers
Sally Rose, Deputy Municipal Recovery Manager with Greater Shepparton Council, and Trudi Pratt Emergency Management Co-ordinator with Greater Shepparton City Council, and Moira Shire, spoke to the club about the response, relief and recovery undertaken with the floods in Shepparton and Moira.
Incident Contril Centre (ICC) set up for such events and disasters as the emergency management control point. Staffed 24 hours by all agencies with people skilled in the event, responding to intel. Council's role is to support the agency, not respond until requested. Unless requested to assist council is not funded.
Next process is the establishment of MICC (Municipal Incident Control Centre), taking instruction from ICC to get systems in place to follow requests from ICC.
Flood different to previous floods, with overland flooding joining river flooding. Emergency Centres were set up in Shepparton and Tatura (either side of the Goulburn River), with up to 400 people housed. Staffed by council, St John's Ambulance, Salvation Army and Service Clubs, providing needs and services to those displaced. Moira Shire has 31 relief centres.
Learning from what we know, what we have done, and what we need to do to facilitate recovery.
Moira minor to moderate flooding, a Murray River event.
 
 
 
 
Clive Deetles guest speaker
 
Clive Deetles, site manager of GrainCorp was guest speaker.
Clive, a chemical engineer, has been with GrainCorp for 2 years. Born in Zambia, resided and worked in U.K., U.S., and Singapore, working 10 years with Nuplex/Allnex a resin manufacturer, 10 years with Monsanto and 11 years with Unilever.
GrainCorp was founded in 1917 and has $8M in sales and 2,380 employees, biggest division in Grain on east coast. Numurkah factory in Oilseeds division.
Resource local canola seeds producing oil, refined then blended, with canola meal used for cattle feed.
1979 began crushing operation in Numurkah, in 2012 acquired Riverland, in 2015 $30M expansion of capacity and in 2018 expanded seed crushing capacity.
  • GrainCorp has added 2 million tons of new equipment.
  • GrainCorp together with CSIRO and V2food established a $4.4M plant-based protein research.
  • Auscol collects cooking oils and convert to renewable oil.
  • GrainCorp and Loam Bio, collaboration on soil carbon.
  • From Surf to Turf funding boost for fertilisers.
  • Injected $30M into AgTech.
Committed to net zero carbon emission by 2050.
Community Foundation has granted $30,000 to local Numurkah organisations.
FY22 result in great safety, good production values with energy use down 6%.
Forward focus is sustainability, innovation and optimising logistics.
 
 
Garry McNamara Guest Speaker.
 

Rotarian Garry McNamara was guest speaker, filling in at the last minute when scheduled guest speaker was unable to attend due to floods.

Garry previously spoke to the club about his army service, this time speaking about being a jockey.

Prior to army, wanted to be a jockey, left school early for a job at Deloraine Racecourse stables. First job was cleaning the boxes. Apprenticed as a jockey, then called up for National Service.

Returning to Ulverstone stables, riding and breaking horses in. After marriage moved to Ballarat, then a stud farm learning about breeding horses.

Moved to Brisbane and joined the army.

 
 
Fr Jophin Joy guest speaker
 

Fr. Jophin Joy parish priest in the Numurkah and Nathalia Catholic Parishes was guest speaker.

Fr. Jophin grew up in a middle-class farming family in India, farming 5 acres mixed crops, relying on physical labour due to hills.

At the age of 15 years began orientation at a seminary. Three years orientation, then three years Bachelor of Theology. Believed that he could help others by joining priesthood. After ordination first posting was to a Pilgrim Centre then 2011-15 assistant priest and from 2015-20 a parish priest.

Sought to go to Australia for pastoral ministry but had to wait 2 years before borders opened. Arriving in Melbourne with a fellow priest, taken to Bendigo then moved at Shepparton as assistant priest. Now parish priest for Numurkah and Nathalia Parishes.

Every day a new experience with language and culture. Well supported by parishioners in his new role

Challenges, with the grace of God, he can face.

 
 
Json Stevenson guest speaker.
 

Jason Stevenson, proprietor of Stevenson Fabrications spoke to the club.

Grew up on a farm in Naring, wanting to be a stock agent, was advised by father to get a trade. Attended Numurkah High School technical wing, then apprentice for 8 years in Shepparton in vehicle manufacturing.

Rented a shed in McDonald Street opposite GrainCorp, and established business Stevenson Fabrications.

Employ a staff of 15, predominately working for big companies including GrainCorp with 2 employees doing maintenance work. Fresh Milk Holdings another big company with 13,000 cows in barns, and Numurkah Solar Farm with 23 staff on-site and managing 120 employees during construction.

Pressure on small business is recruiting full time staff, relying on Secondary College for engagement of apprentices. Within workshop have to be versatile with big and small jobs. Installed a $300,000 laser cutter, and now a folding machine.

Looking to expand to a block on the highway, as running out of room in McDonald Street.

 
 
Kushaal Kishore guest speaker
 

Kushaal Kishore spoke to the club about his life journey.

Boin In Fiji, raised in a small country town, after graduating at High School enrolled in University of Suva, interested in medical profession. In 2007 commenced 4-year pharmacy course. Undertaking elective in Townsville.

Undertook 7 years in retail in Fiji, able to provide point of difference to people with opportunity to interact.

In 2017 moved to work in Harvey Bay then Cobram to finish internship. Fiji degree recognised in Australia but required to do an internship and sit for a Pharmacy Board exam.

Having grown up in a small town, found Numurkah comforting with satisfaction from interacting with locals. Planning to stay as enjoying the country lifestyle and being part of the community. Kushaal considers it a privilege to serve the community.

 
 
John Rhodes guest speaker.
 
John Rhodes from the CFA spoke to the club on CFA Property Advice Service.
John has been a CFA member for 40 years, following the footsteps of his father, with son and wife also in the CFA.
CFA provide property advice visit service, whether it be street corner meetings, property site visits, bushfire planning workshops, developing a fire safe plan, community fire guard risks and stay and defend workshops.
New fire danger rating system adopted telling likelihood of CFA stopping a fire.
Moderate: Most fires can be contained. Plan and prepare.
High: Fires can be dangerous. Be ready to act.
Extreme: Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous. Take action to protect life and property.
Catastrophic: If a fire starts and takes hold, lives are likely to be lost. 
CFA recommend preparing an "Emergency Kit" containing photo ID, passport, photos, will, jewelry, insurance papers, medical prescriptions, USB stick containing important files, medicines and first aid kit, battery powered radio and torch, mobile phone with charger.
Prepare property for bush fires by reducing risks. Your guide to survival, have a leave early plan, property assessment of risks.
 
 
 
 
 
Omen Nolovu guest speaker.

Omen Volovu, manager homelessness program of Salvation Army was guest speaker to the club.

Malaga House, in Nathalia, was formerly owned and run by the Aboriginal Advancement League but fell vacant when services were transferred to Rumbalara Shepperton.

Homelessness is a human structural challenge caused by domestic violence, finance, relationship breakdowns.

As house prices shot up, social housing reached used by date and not replaced.

Salvation Army acquired Malaga House in Nathalia to be used to shelter women 55 years and above as six out of ten homeless are women.

Women facing challenges from housing crisis, financial crisis, gender gap in wages, and marriage breakdown are offered one year accommodation.

During that time, they are taught life skills and linked to business, assisting in getting jobs. The women find who they are and who they might be.

Malago House has 12 self-contained bedrooms with two living areas. The bedrooms are complete but living areas require dining room sets, TV's.

Aim is to pick them up and walk with them.

 

 
Paul & Robyn Lindsay guest speakers
 
 After they married they started with cropping & sheep farming on 2000 acres. In 1999 bought another farm which had a dairy which they farmed with other family members until 2006 & they dissolved the partnership between themselves & bid on farms & assets they wanted. They restarted with 280 dairy cows with 1000 acres plus they leased 500 acres for cropping until 2010 when Paul suffered bowel disease. Over the next 12 months whilst Paul was undergoing treatment Robyn, plus a worker & one of their sons ran the business. In 2011 they were nominated & won Red Sky Dairy Business of the Year for 2010. From 2011 – 2017 they went on to buy another property each year ending up with 5300 acres milking 700 cows. They took on their first visa holder in 2017 to cover staff shortages. Now have 9 visa holders all from Phillipines with Ag Science degrees. Housing is provided by them & eventually most want to bring their families out but there is no guarantee that after 4 years on 482 visas that the visa holders will qualify for residency status. Sam Birrell, local MP to look into the issue.

 
 
Mark Peterson guest speaker
Mark Peterson spoke to the club on Bio-Dynamic Farming.
Undertook a farm apprenticeship after schooling in Nathalia. After a visit to a bio-dynamic farm where he was amazed at the quality of the farm and the animals started bio-dynamic farming in 1987.
In common with other forms of organic agriculture, biodynamic agriculture uses management practices that are intended to "restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony". Central features include crop diversification, the avoidance of chemical soil treatments and off-farm inputs generally, decentralized production and distribution, and the consideration of celestial and terrestrial influences on biological organisms. 
In 2008 launched milk onto market, although more expensive, with most going to health food shops and a quarter to coffee shops.
In a newspaper blind taste test, bio-dynamic milk came out on top.
Bio-dynamic farming enhances the soil and soil structure with humus and organic levels raised.
Producing a sustainable product as the consumer wants a better tasting product.
Bio-dynamic farming under stringent standards with environmental best practices and welfare of animals at a high standard.
Horn Manure 500 is the original biodynamic soil spray and is made from fresh cow manure, buried in cow horns over winter. It is a powerful soil activator helping root development and growth of the plant as well as humus formation in the soil.
 
 
 
 
Vocational Service Award
 
Deb Fowler awarded the Rotary Club of Numurkah "Jack Duncan Vocational Service award" by Chris Hardham, Vocational Service Director.
 
 
Deb Fowler guest speaker
 
Deb Fowler on previous occasions had spoken to the club on the her work with Bohollow Wildlife Shelter and The Numurkah Community Learning Centre, choosing this time to speak to the club on her role as a community visitor with the Office of Public Advocate.
The Public Advocate is an independent statutory officer, with considerable legislative power to promote and safeguard the rights and interests of people with disability.
Like the Ombudsman, the Public Advocate has significant powers to investigate allegations of abuse of vulnerable Victorians, reporting directly to Parliament.
The Public Advocate was established under the Guardianship and Administration Act 1986 and continues under the Guardianship and Administration Act 2019.
The Public Advocate is supported by around 100 staff and more than 650 volunteers.
OPA's vision is for a just and inclusive society that respects and promotes the dignity and human rights of all people.
OPA's purpose is to promote and protect the rights and interests of people with disability, and work to eliminate abuse, neglect and exploitation.
In all activities and relationships, OPA strives to demonstrate:
Respect: treat everyone equally and with dignity and justice, accept each person's individuality, acknowledge diversity and promote self-determination
Compassion: accept people as they are and understand, acknowledge and have empathy for their circumstances
Inclusiveness: strive to empower all people to contribute and participate
Ethical behaviour: act at all times in a principled and informed manner, treat people fairly, accept accountability and uphold justice
Independence: be free-thinking, unbiased and impartial, and challenge the status quo.
As a community visitor, visits group homes and residential facilities, listens, observes and reports.
 
 
Wayne Limbrick guest speaker.
Wayne Limbrick, a passionate and dedicated supporter of Umoja Orphanage in Kenya spoke to the club on his involvement, and gave a 2022 update on the orphanage, using a PowerPoint presentation.
Umoja Orphanage, Kenya, is located south of Mombasa on east coast of Kenya, founded in 2011 and it is a RAWCS project. Wayne and partner Pam have been involved since 2012.
As a member of a volunteer group erected fencing around the farm compound. In 2015 returned and re-wired the fence replacing the rusted wire.
In 2019 returned with grand-daughter, which was a life changing experience for her, whilst there, Wayne was busy teaching locals how to use tools correctly.
2022 update:
  • Chicken shed completed.
  • Tank stand completed, which also provides two levels of accommodation.
  • Employing 7 full time employees plus casuals.
  • Food production for orphanage with excess for sale.
  • Second children's house practically completed.
  • New hydroponic greenhouse almost completed.
  • Second water tower being constructed for solar pump.
  • Workshop established in container.
  • Second house primed and one coat of paint.
Next Step:
  • Install solar pump.
  • Re-fence compound.
  • Final paint of new house.
  • Repaint existing house.
  • More training on tractor.
Wayne and Pam planning to return in October.
"Together we can make a difference".
 
 
Dominique Cosgriff guest speaker
 

Dominique Cosgriff, proprietor and editor "Numurkah Leader" spoke to the club.

A story of a single mum, triumphing over adversity. Attended Shepparton High School, moved to Melbourne, them travelled the world, married, then single mum to two children.

Son a cabinet maker, living at home, daughter in Melbourne, Masters in International Development. Being a single mum hard, but rewarding.

Completed a writing and editing course at TAFE, free-lanced at Shepparton News, other jobs included kitchen-hand, SPC tomato line. Applied unsuccessfully for a job as a journalist at Numurkah Leader, after three months re-interviewed and offered job.

Every day different, meeting lots of people. Ownership of Numurkah Leader offered with plan to purchase in 2020, then COVID hit, with pause in plans. Eventually taking over in March 2021, the beginning of a new chapter.

Right opportunity came at the right time. Accepted role because of local community spirit and terrific team at Leader.

Major hick-up when new CEO of Moira Shire unwilling to accept any article exposing anything about Shire not favorable.

All hell broke loose! Unique job running a small country newspaper, being independent, tenuous position when on own. Moira Shire pulled advertising, but readership rose up in support. A David and Goliath struggle, but community support unbelievable. Broke a rule for newspapers, in not to become the story. Struggle showed staunch community and staff  appreciation of free press.

Since then, one year on things going well. Still loving every minute.

 

 
R.I. Regionalisation Project
A.G. Lorraine Greenwood made a presentation on the  Regionalisation pilot scheme, in itself a work in progress, to the combined meeting of Numurkah and Nathalia Rotary Clubs.
Rotary International is considering a project to address membership, public image, communication, leadership and fundraising challenges to help define a more sustainable future for Rotary.
With a membership decline of 24%, to realise our future, change is required. 
Must face challenges of: ageing, attracting and retaining members, public lack of understanding and complex structure.
The project seeks to develop and test a streamlined governance approach to:
  • Allow clubs sharing geography, culture to organise on ways that suit them.
  • Eliminate duplication, to make more responsive and cost effective.
  • Best resources easily accessible to every club.
  • Improve communication to enhance club and member engagement.
  • Grow membership.
  • Attract more community, corporate and government sector support by communicating with one voice.
  • Foster more diverse perspectives in decision making.
  • Enhance leadership and personal development activities to better suit our modern world.
  • Reduce the burden of administration responsibilities placed upon leaders.
The overarching aim of the project is to provide better and more direct support to Rotary clubs through a less layered and more developed contemporary approach.
Principles of Regionalisation structure:
  • Democratically elect Region Council.
  • Area leader elected by 10-25 clubs
  • Any Rotarian can nominate themselves.
  • Representation important - geography, gender.
  • 2-4 year term.
  • Collect best resources to help support each club.
Clubs and Districts to vote on are we interested in taking part in designing Rotary for the future.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Craig Beamish guest speaker
 
Craig Beamish, Ambulance Victoria Team Manager at Numurkah spoke to the club about community AED.
AED's save lives of patients with cardiac arrest. CPR and defibrillators important, as longer wait the brain cells start to die off.
Cardiac arrest is often unexpected. For every minute a patient doesn’t get CPR/defibrillation, their chances of survival fall by 10%.
External defibrillators designed for community members to use with minimal training. Internal computer analysis rhythm and instructs actions to be taken.
Currently 16-18 defibrillators registered in Numurkah with only one accessible 24 hours at the Senior Citizen Club.
GoodSAM is a free global smartphone app that alerts responders to someone nearby in cardiac arrest. GoodSAM is linked to the Triple Zero (000) communications centre, so as soon as an ambulance is dispatched, a GoodSAM alert will notify responders.
How does it work?
How to help a stranger in cardiac arrest? It’s easier than you think.
  1. A Triple Zero call (000) triggers an alert to be sent to a GoodSAM Responder.
  2. The responder is told the location of the patient and the nearest available defibrillator (AED).
  3. At the same time, the closest available ambulance is simultaneously sent to the patient, and in some parts of Victoria, the fire brigade is also dispatched.
  4. Meanwhile, the GoodSAM Responder can provide CPR and, if possible, make use of the nearest available defibrillator. This gives the patient a greater chance of survival. 
 
 
Paul Arnel guest speaker.

 

Paul Arnel, principal St Joseph's Primary School, spoke to the club reflecting on the school community over the last two years.

Started on high anxiety, with school closed, called on all resources, issuing lap-tops. Youngest staff members showed prowess with technology and ability to stay connected.

Role of school shifted from academic to social and connectiveness for students and families.

Best possible staff managing own family life, managing students on-line and assisting their families.

Rotated staff through lockdowns, rotating students and families through school.

Families that had been struggling, struggled more through COVID. Tried different strategies to maintain links, providing food hampers, games and social contact, with focus on social aspect.

Frustration towards the end with families sick of home learning.

On return, students had to cope with masks, air-purifiers and cleaning.

A year and a half on, students found it difficult to fit in, extra staff engaged to assist students struggling.

Vigilant in practices, conservative, flexible and adaptive and always hopeful. 

 
 
D.G. Visit
 
District Governor David McPherson in making his official visit to the club, spoke on his goals for the year.
Rotary Strategic Plan is to increase impact, expand our reach and enhance participants engagement, and development of equality and inclusion.
  • Diversity - welcome people of all backgrounds, cultures, experiences and ideals.
  • Equity - ensure each person has access to resources, opportunities, network and support.
  • Inclusion - create a culture where each person knows they are valued and belong.
 Different Kinds of Rotary clubs:
  • Satellite - members with sponsor club choose their own structure.
  • Passport - members attend any club.
  • Corporate - members work for same employer.
  • Cause-based - members unite to address a particular cause.
Club culture number one reason members leave, care and comfort in club is important.
 
Rotary born 117 years ago with need to be evolutionary and at times revolutionary.
 
Partners Project: Wheelchairs for Kids.
 
David concluded by screening a video presentation by R.I. President Jennifer Jones.
 
 
Stacey & Michael - Deadly Art

– Stacey & Michael operate Deadly Art which displays & sells indigenous artefacts, didgeridoos & art works from local artists including their own. They first opened in March in Meiklejohn Street but have recently moved to Melville Street.
Stacey spoke of her Pop, Cecil Clayton who served in the Australian Army as a Soldier & was a Rat of Tobruk. After he returned from war 9 of his 13 children were taken.
Michael demonstrated an Emu Caller to imitate the mating calls from emus, a whacking stick, digging stick & a Yorta/Yorta walking stick which can be become a weapon. The indigenous motto is “what you take from the land you must use” – no wastage.
An invitation was extended to Michael & Tracey to join next year’s Art Show to display their works.
Michael attempted the digeridoo.

 
 
Changeover meeting 2022
A successful Rotary Club Changeover Meeting was attended by 57 members, guests and partners, with District Governor Elect Netta Kirby.
 
 
President Gary Phillips delivering the President's Report.
District Governor Elect Netta Kirby presenting a Paul Harris Sapphire recognition to Lou Hamon, with Chris Sutton.
Col McPherson Community Service Award presented to David Geddes by Duncan McPherson with Community Service Director Julie Andrew.
President Rex Shields with incoming board members.
 
 
Jennifer Rodger guest speaker.
 
Jennifer Rodger spoke to the club on her new vocation as a Marriage Celebrant.
To be a Marriage Celebrant must have completed a Certificate IV in Celebrancy and be registered with the Attorney General's Office. Became official on 17/05/2022.
Celebrants bound by a Code Of Conduct and performance review. There are approximately 10,000 authorised celebrants practicing in Australia, and in 2020 80% of all marriages were conducted by a celebrant.
The Marriage Act became legislation in 1961 and amended in 2017 to provide for marriage equality in Australia. The Marriage Act defines marriage as the union of 2 people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.
A marriage occurring in Australia may be solemnised on any day, at any time and at any place. with the marriage registered in the State or Territory where the marriage occurred within 14 days.
Celebrants have an important role not only because of the legal consequence of marriage, but also because of their central significance to the parties.
It is the responsibility of each party to a marriage to satisfy the celebrant that they are free to marry.
A Declaration of No Legal Impediment must be signed by the couple before the celebrant as to their conjugal status and belief and that there is no legal impediment to the marriage. This usually occurs at the wedding rehearsal.
The celebrant liaises with the couple to organise the ceremony and is usually responsible for providing the PA system, and if music is played the necessary copyright obligations.
 A wedding ceremony must have both parties present, a celebrant and two witnesses and takes 20-30 minutes.
Jennifer then conducted a mock wedding ceremony with Rex Shields and Judy McDonald.
 
 
 
Dorothy and Peter Heard guest speakers.
Dorothy and Peter Heard spoke to the club about the history of the Numurkah Town Band.
As far back as 1883 Numurkah had brass bands, but in 1903 musician John Tracey moved to Numurkah and was asked to form a band of young students which a debut as the Numurkah Town Band in 1904, playing at a dance in the Mechanics Institute.
Prior to TV, the band provided entertainment and amusement for the town, In 1908 a band rotunda was built for the band to perform concerts monthly. The rotunda has been moved and modified several times, since.
In 1909 the band made 106 appearances. During World War I the band played at the railway station for departing troops. 1939 band was in recess during World War II, reforming under George Paterson in 1949 with new grey uniforms.
Highlights of those years were the massed band competition with up to a dozen bands competing. The band has had many band masters including George Paterson after the war, Col McPherson, Arthur Smith and present leader Isobel Hodge, the longest serving as director of music with Michelle Davis as assistant.
Membership has fluctuated going down to 10, then 5 in 2007, presently 25. Spasmodic attendances and shortage of money have always been a problem, with Moira Shire, Rotary & Lions and business houses assisting, and regular Bunnings BBQs held, to raise funds to repair old or purchase new instruments.
Initially the band rehearsed in various shops and venues. In 1883 the Railway Hotel built a dinning room which was later purchased for $200 in 1977 and moved to current site. Unfortunately the hall became a target for vandalism. When the Shire amalgamated, Moira Shire took over ownership and increased security.
Peter has been a member for 60 years with lots of memories, with many highlights and some sombre days.
Numurkah Town Band exists to serve the community by providing entertainment and opportunity for locals to join and learn.
 
 
 
 
Davis Forman guest speaker.
David Forman guest speaker having grown up in Molyullah near Benalla with a love of rural communities. Home schooled and at age 16 commenced training as a diesel mechanic. Mechanics core of being, buying a Honda motorbike when 14 years old.
After a year farming joined Hauslers in Shepparton, wanting a change from mechanics to retail became salesman, spare parts for 6 years at Peter Hill Honda.
Eventually purchasing the business, a large undertaking with long hours but fulfilling a passion to own own business.
Business employs 10, with the last few years challenging, but able to continue trading as deemed an essential business.
Supply a problem, although on-line sales not a problem, as able to back-up and service what is sold.
Service what we sell, there for the long term.
Changed name of business to Peter Hill Power to enable business to sell other brands as well as Honda.
 
 
 
 
Fay Scadden guest speaker
 
Fay Scadden was guest speaker talking to the club on the Nathalia Boarding Kennels & Cattery.
Established in 2000 by Maddy Kiel, leased in September 2016 and purchased April 2017 by Fay, husband David and daughter Vanessa.
Main Services: Dog boarding (150), cat boarding (50), doggy day care and doggy day out and BYO. Dog training, grooming and boarding pocket pets - rabbits, birds, pigs, guinea pigs.
Sub Services: Taxi service for boarding customers with Shepparton pick-up 2 days a week and Echuca pick-up 2 days a week. Photographs and Play-n-vaccine.
Kennels are open plan socialization, with 12 staff, 2 full time, 3 part time, 3 casual and 2 newbies.
 
 
 
 
Terry Brennan guest speaker.

Terry Brennan spoke to the club on his background as an A Grade Automotive Engineer. From 1924 to 1998 the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce trained and certified A Grade Automobile Engineers.

Terry, an apprentice with Rod Hurren, undertook the course with requirement, must be over 21 years, minimum of 7 years experience 2 year night school then sit for exam, which required a 70% pass rate.

In general, the candidate is expected to have a knowledge of the construction, operation, diagnosis, maintenance and repair of the various automotive systems and components. The syllabus included, Fitting and Machining, Welding, Electric Arc, Precision Tools and Trade Calculations, Engine Reconditioning, Transmissions, Final Drives, Electrical, Carburetors, Tuning, Adjusting & Diagnosis.

Examination is practical and theory written paper. with a 4 hour and another 8 hour theory exam.

Numurkah had a strong showing of A Grade Engineers, including among others, Doug Grenness, Doug Allchin, Frank Coonerty, Arnold Hern, Russell Blake, Don Chandler, Don Wilson and Adrian Doody. Numurkah had 44 mechanics when Terry started his apprenticeship.

 
 
Dr Jennifer Coller guest speaker

Dr. Jennifer Coller, Cardiology lead G.V. Health, attended Melbourne University in 1997, with elective in fifth year served in Madras, India and Samoa. Returned for internship at RMH, then a year in UK. Returning for cariology training with PhD in Heart Failure at St Vincent's, then G.V. last seven years and in 2021 Cardiology Lead.

Cardiology Disease causes 1 in 4 deaths at a great cost to the Australian economy.

Patient story of a 62 year old women with Heart Failure.

  • complex medical history, heart disease, arterial fibrillation and heart failure.
  • managed by multiple specialists with multiple presentations to E.D.
  • educated around heart failure.
  • fluid retention.
  • clear action plan devised.
  • advanced care planning.
  • no recent hospitalisations.

Outpatient consultation at G.V. Health consultation suites with establishment of two outreach clinics, consultations 1000/year. Specialties: heart failure, AF/arrhythmias,  interventions, congenital heart disorder. Connected Cardiology with monthly outreach clinics focus on heart failure and echocardiography fortnightly.

Rapid Access Atrial Fibrillation Clinics with aim to early review of E.D. presentations.                      Cardiac Ambassadors Project with aim co-ordination of care.                                                                      Heart Failure Collaborative with aim to reduce heart failure re-admissions.

300,000 in Australia with Heart Failure 1.5% of population.                                                                Symptoms - breathlessness, fatigue, waking up in night with very short breath, feeling breathless when lying down, swollen ankles.

 
 
 
4WD Trip 2022
The Rotary Club of Numurkah just held a very successful 15th annual Environment & Heritage trip into the High Country at Frys Flat, with a chilly Bluff Hut being our lunch stop destination on Saturday. Lots of work goes on behind the scenes to ensure all goes smoothly so well done to all involved.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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John Watson guest speaker.
 

John Watson guest speaker spoke on Incitec Pivot and his involvement.

Pivot was formed in 1919 as a phosphate co-operative producing superphosphate with farmers only as shareholders, farmers initially purchasing shares at $10.

In 1997, corporate raider Doug Shears began buying shares to gain control of the company, with a move to demutualize the company. At that time, the company had 45,000 farmer shareholders and was the biggest co-op in Australia. Having 3 to 4 directors on his side, he ran candidates for the board to gain control.

John Watson and Allan McCallum ran a campaign opposing David Spears candidates, gaining 75% of votes cast. Chair and Deputy Chair controlled AGM and declared John & Allan lost on a technicality. Taking the case to the Victorian Supreme Court, John & Allan won. Following board meeting John was elected chairman.

New directors were recruited, but management was still a problem. Down the track, the CEO made a financial blunder, with banks moving to declare the company insolvent. Working through this in 2003 Pivot merged with Incitec.

In 2006 Southern Cross Fertilisers was purchased and in 2008 Incitec Pivot purchased Dyno-Nobel explosives business, becoming listed in the top 24 companies on the ASX.

In 2011 John retired. Of note, Incitec Pivot is the only manufacturer of urea in Australia, with Ad Blue now produced for the trucking industry.

 
Soldier Settler Memorial
The unveiling of the Murray Valley Soldier Settlement Scheme in Numurkah today was a huge success, with many children of the settlement returning back home. Three surviving widows had the honour of unveiling the memorial, with the assistance of the Baulkamaugh Scouts. Three years in the making, the effort was worth it, given the huge smiles from all those who made it. Well done to Stephen Mills and John Watson who got the project off the ground and all those who assisted along the way. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fr Joe Taylor Guest speaker
 

Fr Joe Taylor as a young priest volunteered to serve in Papua New Guinea. PNG close to Australia, was a Dutch Colony and German Colony, with Australia administrating from World War II for 60 years before PNG established its sovereignty in 1975.

Based in Southern Highlands, 2,700m high in rugged country. RAAF used area for high level landing and take-off training. 

Population of 5M with 780 different languages with Pidgin the predominant language. Parliament is in three languages, Pidgin, English and Huli.

Job was to set up schools, whilst in PNG he set up four primary schools. Within PNG education is becoming more important with assistance of four Nuns literacy, nutrition and health are emphasised.

In the six years in PNG, Fr. Joe learnt about himself, what is important and what is not important.

Beautiful country, with population rapidly growing and western clothing being adopted.

 
 
 
42nd Annual Art & Craft Exhibition
The Rotary Club of Numurkah 42nd Annual Art & Craft Exhibition held in the Numurkah Town Hall over the weekend 11th to 14th March was an outstanding success with excellent attendance.
 
 
 
 
 
Claire Birch guest speaker.

Claire Birch, Community Engagement Officer from Indigo Power, spoke to the club on community energy in our region.

Power hubs are organised and run by volunteers with the aim of 100% renewable energy.  Groups formed to carry out a variety of projects in type and size.

Benefit to communities include enabling equal access to the benefit of renewable energy, whilst combating and improving economies in regional towns. Projects provide a lasting legacy for future generations and provide management in times of emergency and disaster.

Community Power Hubs collaborate and support community engagement for communities to organise and implement renewable energy projects that benefit communities.

Projects underway in the North East include EV chargers and community storage batteries

 
 
Margaret Crisp guest speaker.
 
Margaret Crisp spoke to the club on Bushfire Recovery following the devasting bushfires in Upper Murray in 2019/20.
Rotary and Lions proved to be flexible in getting into areas, with over 100 hay trucks, in a convoy, providing feed.
After feed, the next problem was fencing to contain the livestock. Team spent 4 1/2 weeks in area before Blaze Aid and Uniting Church fencers arrived.
Teams spent 18 months in Cudgewa recreational reserve where in the area, 308,242 hectares were burnt, 55 residences destroyed, over 200 buildings destroyed and over 18,000 head of cattle lost.
Over 10,000 volunteer hours spent fencing, book packs provided for school students, Albury Wodonga Health case management supported families in crisis. Bushfire Recovery Victoria, Red Cross, Salvation Army, Uniting Church are some of the organisations helping people move on.
It became apparent that Rotary needs a dedicated Recovery Committee, learning from impact of past disasters.
 
 
 
Nicole Wells guest speaker
Nicole Wells, Community Development Officer with NCN Health, spoke to the club about the Farm Community Connect Project.
Project managed by Deakin University with partnerships Moira and Strathbogie Shires.
Farm Community Connect Project supports farmers and farming families many who have lost connection and do not seek support, as well as supporting women and children.
Isolation and remoteness causing 56% Victorian farmers feeling they could cope.
Aim of project is to build resilience, develop social networks and foster a sense of belonging.
Intention is to deliver social events, family fun days and on farm workshops.
Rotary can support Farm Community Connect by volunteering support at activities and events, promote activities, catering at events and activities.
 
 
 
Community Bus Launch
Community Bus Fundraising Launch Saturday 26th February in Newman Square Numurkah.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Geoff Austin guest speaker
 
Geoff Austin spoke to the club giving an overview of the aviation industry.
After 16 years with Virgin, Geoff has now been retired for 4 years.
Aviation Industry heavily regulated by CASA, Civil Aviation Safety Authority. All segments of the industry, flight crew, cabin crew, engineering and flight control must be qualified for their respective duties.
Flight crew undergo a license test every six months. Cabin crew trained to be competent in an emergencies, skilled in people management and trained in martial arts.
Planes are certified every day by licensed engineers.
One hour before take off, flight crew undertake flight planning, consider the weather, loads and decide how much fuel. They then undertake a physical inspection then in the flight deck do a 30 minute system check. The cabin crew inspect all equipment in the cabin before take off. Ground staff, luggage handlers, fuel handlers all attend to their duties to enable plane to take-off.
 
 
Jacque Phillips guest speaker

Jacque Phillips, CEO of NCN Health spoke to the club on Aged Care Services.

NCN Health has four residential aged care facilities. Pioneer Lodge and Karinya in Numurkah, Irvine House in Cobram and Banawah in Nathalia.

Short term respite offered in residential aged care facilities as well as transitional care beds in hospitals for up to 18 weeks.

What is offered: Home Care Packages, Home Support, Planned Activities Groups, In home Respite and Career Support available as well as a Retirement Village - Gwandalan Court in Numurkah. 

Residential aged care short stay respite up to 63 days per year offered.

Commonwealth Home Support offers support at home for those over 65 years with careers, housework, personal care, meals, transport, shopping, allied health and social support available..

Home Care Packages with four levels. Must be assessed by My Care, referrals will be made, free assessment with Aged Care Assessment Services.

Australian Government subsidised Aged Care Homes, residents contribute to cost if they can afford to do so. Financial assessment is only valid for 120 days.

Basic daily fee is $53.56 per day. Some accommodation costs paid in full by the Government with a means test based on your income and assets. Accommodation costs can be paid in lump sum, daily or combination of both.

You can apply for as many homes as you like, all providing, all care needs, doctor, transport and social activities.

You choose a Home Care Service Provider that is right for you. Government pays provider on four package levels, Basic, Low Care, Intermediate and High Care. You are expected to contribute up to three levels.

 

 
Art & Craft Exhibition entries closing.
Entries to the 42nd Annual Art & Craft Exhibition closing this week.
Entry forms available at Community Learning Centre, Library, Home Hardware and at Art Show Raffle sellers at IGA.
 
 
Trivia Night
 

Squish Davis conducted an entertaining Trivia Quiz, with results in 3rd Place: "Scratch Maker" and "Bikers Plus One" Tables, 2nd Place: "Yes" Table, 1st Place: "Distinction" Table.

 

 
Mark McNamara guest speaker
 
Mark McNamara got into photography by necessity in real estate. Enrolled in a Night Photography Class at TAFE to develop skills. 
Focused on taking local photos over the last 18 months. Allows camera to source available light, either street light or moonlight, does not use flash.
Using a power point presentation Mark showed some of his "Numurkah in darkness" photos which he has posted on Facebook during COVID pandemic to be an uplifting distraction.
 
 
 
 
 
Numurkah Australia Day 2022
Numurkah Australia Day 2022 with Rotarian Squish Davis leading the town band and Lou Hamon master of ceremonies. Arts, Culture / Environment Project Award recipient Rotary Art Show, Event of the Year Rotary Love Your Sister Dinner. Katunga Football Netball Club Organisation of the Year and joint Citizens of the Year Deb Fowler and Jeff Stanyer.
 
 
 
 
 
Zoe Ludington Guest Speaker
 
Zoe Ludington, guest speaker, spoke to the club about herself and setting up a physiotherapy clinic, Spark Physio Co, in Numurkah.
Attended school in Numurkah and Nathalia, always interested in sport, and when suffering an injury considered physiotherapy as a career.
Enrolled  at Charles Stuart University Albury, graduating after four years with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy with distinction.
Moved to Melbourne working at different clinics to gain experience, started Pilates classes, and was head physio with Whittlesea Soccer Club. Worked as a sports physio with Volley Ball Association.
Wed Nick Ludington 2 days prior to first COVID lockdown. During pandemic worked reduced hours.
Pursuing her dream, to open her own clinic, Zoe and Nick considered several towns after investigating services offered. 
In July 2020 settled on Shepparton and Numurkah, working 2-3 days in Numurkah, and several days in Shepparton.
Originally a one man show, business grew in Numurkah and offered Pilates, now employ a receptionist, physiotherapist and a massage therapist.
Pilates has grown with Reformer Pilates, aiming to reduce musculoskeletal pain, improve posture and balance. Traditional Classes  full body strengthening/stretching class. Tailored Classes  individualised programs developed to meet the need of each client. Pre and post-natal classes also available.
Now have 100 Pilate clients a week, with 15 physio consultations a week.
Business sponsors tennis and football clubs.
Hopefully expand to neighboring towns.
Grateful for town support and hope to give back to the community.
 
 
 
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