Rotary Club presentation by President Linda Boyd to the Numurkah Historical Society members -Jeff Blackley, Rosemary Kennett & Linda McKenzie $5221.75 raised for the 150th Anniversary.
Welcome to the Rotary Club of Numurkah website. Here you will be able to learn more about our dynamic Rotary Club.
Service Above Self
We meet In Person
Mondays at 6:30 pm
Numurkah Golf & Bowls Club
Tunnock Road
Numurkah, VIC 3636
Australia
Numurkah, VIC 3636
Australia
Guest Speaker
Dr Graeme Emonson
Chief Administrator Moira Shire Council
Grew up on a wheat farm in Berriwillock (Mallee)
Awarded a Doctorate in Philosophy for work at the Knox City Council in leadership
- A monitor appointed for Moira Shire to provide advice and a report to the Minister
- this led to a commission of inquiry - reported
- Recommendation that the elected council be dismissed, and a panel appointed
- Panel in place until 2028
- Charged with full responsibilities of Governance and the reset/rebuild the Shire
- 3 priorities - road safety (Moira overrepresented for road deaths), water buyback (expected a massive negative impact on local jobs in agriculture), family/gender-based violence (one local area has police spend 70% of resourcing goes on family-based violence)
- Digital connectivity is a priority for agricultural businesses
- looking for a panel of 20 as EOI (close 3rd October) to be around the table to shape the future of Moira Shire
- Looking to appoint 12 young people (12-24) for a Youth Panel
- Inducted 18 people in 1st intake of Community /Civic Program to enable them to network and build leadership skills (five intakes before 2028)
- Significant Projects underway in Numurkah - 1. flood levy planning permit about to happen and stage 1 earthworks to commence in 2025 2. Currently launched the North Numurkah Storm Water Management Strategy to open up more residential blocks 3. Last week launched Numurkah/Katunga/Strathmerton growth corridor for substantial job and business opportunities discussion paper
- 150th Numurkah celebrations underway
- Australia Day Awards nominations open now, close 15th November
Leadership
5 types of leaders
- 1. transactional - get the job done
- 2. charismatic - bring people along for the ride
- 3. narcissistic - it's all about me
- 4. transformational - to make changes, growing/changing others for good
- 5. authentic - the leader who clearly understands their values and live their life by their values
PhD was over 100,000 words, the single most important thing that people want from their leaders is that they genuinely care about them/authenticity. More than half (50%) of what an organisation produces is directly related to its staff's connectedness to the leadership (wellbeing, fulfillment). Therefore, Leadership is a crucial part of an organisation's productivity. It enables people to do good things!
Save the dates 9th & 10th November!
Things are coming together for our second Open Gardens Event for Numurkah & District. Keep your eye out for exciting updates and follow our page.
Guest Speaker
Michael Tymenson
Michael did a slideshow presentation on the 'Tour de France' trip the Giraffes Group did in August. The trip was a highlight, the whole family went over with Michael along with some of the 'Giraffe's riding group.
They stayed for a few days with Kate Hodge's Sister and brother in-law. The bike tour was well organised and bikes were hired with their own measurements done to each rider's specs. The scenery was the main attraction and breathtaking. The 'real' Tour de France was coming through the towns a week or two after our group.
There are many churches/castles, rivers and lakes to look at.
After the riding tour Michael and his family toured around the country, including Venice and Switzerland.
There were many photos and stories which made the trip sound like the chance of a lifetime
Guest Speaker
Jeremy Tyndall
- Grew up in Waaia racing motorbikes, playing footy
- When 16 yrs old had a crash and run over by another rider and broke his back
- Laid back character has made the most of his situation
- lucky enough to be doing rehab in Melbourne and had to learn to live again and get use to being in a wheelchair
- a basketball player visited the rehab centre and encouraged him to play basketball
- Over time it became enjoyable and an outlet whilst in rehab
- Outside of the city there was no disability sports
- Down the track he was contacted that wheelchair basketball was started in Shepparton
- The coach put Jeremy's name forward for the under 23 yr Victorian team
- The national league wheelchair association - tried out and made the team
- Was invited to join the Australian team - flew around the world playing basketball
- Moved to Melbourne to study and train for the Australian squad
- The training was brutal - but it was a good professional environment
- There were blocks of ten days of training at the AIS
- The team got a bronze medal in Toronto
- Was invited to train with the Rollers - the seniors team
- Was then invited to join the team in 2019 - paid position
- Jeremy was approached by a French team and lived in France for 8 months - played a season
- It was really good for his development
- During Covid professional athletes were given exemptions to train
- In 2021 training at AIS and was picked to be in the team to play in Tokyo in the Olympics
- Mum and dad were 'pretty happy'!
- One of the most incredible experiences of Jeremy's life - to represent Australia was awesome
- Came 5th at the Olympics
- You've got to live life as normal and not let anything get you down
- Currently teaching at St Joseph's and planning to move back to Melbourne and start playing basketball again
- Coaching 2nd's footy at Waaia
Guest Speaker
Glenice Holmes (McNeill)
- Grew up in Shepparton
- Have made it to 90 yrs old!
- Dad came from Scotland at 12yrs old in 1910
- Advertising in Glasgow to come to Victoria GV to Dairy Farm, were upset when they arrived as all the dairy farms were given to Australians.
- They took on an orchard block and grew pears
- Dad got a job with Clydesdales Coaches building shop at 14 yrs of age
- In 1930 after he was married, (mum came from the Hunter Valley). they bought land in High St Shepparton and a grain store
- Built a house for the family upstairs of the business
- Shops were mostly family owned and families all lived above the businesses
- Business was building carts and horse drawn vehicles. The business then moved onto building car spokes and side curtains
- Dad had a big sewing machine and Glenys job was to hold up the large machine steady
- There was a farrier within the business as well
- It was a fun upbringing
- Went to Presbyterian Sunday School in the morning and the Salvos at night for the bands and music
- Free tickets to the circus as they used their power and water
- In 1939 the war was starting, and the RAAF had the recruit camp near the Showgrounds and they used to watch the soldiers walk out to training
- Glenice can drive around Shepparton today and remember where everyone use to live and work
- Girls had few career options as back in those days - secretary or nurse
- Worked at 3SR radio station
- The Star Theatre held Saturday night dances and one particular night in 1954 Glenice noticed this handsome fellow named Douglas Holmes from Numurkah
- Got married in 1955 and Doug's mother told him to take Glenice down the street to introduce her to the shop keepers (Brown & Cork in the back door, Eric Lee's butcher shop, Bitcon's, Mr Gunther's the Chemist, Retallick's, Hamon's Pharmacy, Kilpatrick McClelland, Young Husband's)
- Glenice and Doug had 5 children in Penzance House
- Mark and Carolyn McNamara bought Glenice and Doug's home and then she moved across the road (begrudgingly)
- She has seen 7 floods come through Numurkah
- The Historical Society has been a big part of her life - 60 yrs celebration this year of the Society
- Knew a lot of the members and were all friendly
- One day Charles Newman approached the Moira Shire, National Bank and a benefactor and arranged the current facility in 1992
- Have run 2 musical nights, to help paint
- Been President and Secretary many times
- Glenice is a Life Member (the only one)
- Still enjoying the meetings and want to keep going
Guest Speaker
Rob Smith
- Born in Midlands area UK
- Dad was born in Egypt and family lived a 'pioneering life'
- Mum was born in Yorkshire
- Parents met at University and never graduated as they left and married
- 1981 moved to Hong Kong with dad's new position
- Spent three years 'partying' and making the most of the experience
- Returned to the UK and was a 'shock', started travelling again with mates
- Ended up in Israel in a Kibbutz and worked for 8 months
- Left and headed to a farmers property to help with vegetables and watering
- Travelled back to Greece with some more money in pockets
- Kept travelling to Munich as a dishwasher
- Got back to UK before University as a mature aged student
- First teaching position for 7 years year 3-4
- Married Terrico a nurse
- Had 4 kids
- Looked at moving to Slovenia but decided on Australia
- Moved to Victoria with three-year visa
- Started teaching in 2010 in Numurkah
- Got citizenship in 2017
- Family fully involved in local sporting clubs
- Positive move but things still tough - parents ageing and unable to visit back home regularly
- Don't regret the move
- Future is to keep working at the Numurkah Primary School and organising sports days
- Gary Phillips spoke to the club on the craftmenship in making a Windsor Chair.
- What is a Windsor Chair?
- History - also known as a 'stick' chair from Welsh and Irish descent
- First noted as a garden chair
- The name Windsor is derived from the market town of Windsor in London where they were sent to be sent out
- Many different patterns both modern and traditional
- Gary went to Molong to a Windsor Chair making workshop for ten days
- Very physically demanding work
- Traditional workmanship skills utilised - no modern machinery
- Gary played an informative video demonstrating the different techniques utilised to form the chairs
- He also demonstrated the tools required for each part of the process (froe, pole lathe, auger, carving axe)
- Utilise sight lines to get the angles of the chair legs (splay & rake)
- Gary hand made all the tool handles as they do not ship them from UK with the tool heads
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Maynard Carlisle spoke to the Rotary Club on his time with the National Survey, travelling every state and PNG over 5 years.
With HQ in Melbourne, groups of up to 10 with a qualified surveyor plus technical assistants and field assistants would set out with equipment, swags and food for up to a year, mapping Australia.
Some mapping and surveying not done since Captain Cook.
Maynard showed a slide presentation illustrating the extreme conditions from desert in the outback to mountains and jungle in PNG with pictures of working parties in these conditions.
Jeff Blackley from the Numurkah Historical Society spoke to the Rotary Club on the 150th Anniversary of the gazetting of Numurkah and Wunghnu as towns.
The Historical Society facilitated two public meetings last year and set-up a planning committee to celebrate the 150th Anniversary. A further public meeting was held this year to report progress.
People in area before town gazetted, Bangerang clan of the first nations people and squatters, part of the Ulupna Strathmerton West Run.
After gold rush government unlocked the land with the 1869 Land Act. Land broken up and could be selected, being leased for 2-3 years and improvements made before land could be purchased.
Start of closer settlement with towns growing to provide supplies and in 1875 Colonial Government officially gazetted Numurkah and Wunghnu townships.
Six years later railway came through with Numurkah the terminus resulting in the establishment of nine hotels.
Historical Society facilitating planning with a distinct logo created from ideas suggested by school students.
Main weekends of celebrations.
Saturday 8th: Heritage Day at showgrounds featuring a parade of horses and wagons, Cobb & Co Coach and heritage crafts and trades, folk band, wood chop and video presentation.
Sunday 9th: Picnic Lunch Rotary Park, dig up time capsule. Afternoon open sessions at schools, Historical Society, combined church service.
Easter: Catch-up, similar to a back-to.
Throughout the year, town's major events incorporate 150th celebrations.
Legacy projects include footbridge over creek, hospital memorial wall, Historical Society signs down main street and mural on water tower.
Seeking Rotary involvement:
- Man power on the Saturday and Sunday.
- Dig up time-capsule.
- BBQ on Sunday at picnic lunch.
- Collect items and re-bury time-capsule.
- Painting of train and tractors.
- Possibility on engraved bricks.
- Art Show to include prize for historical photo and painting.
Bill Masters guest speaker at Rotary meeting spoke on his life.
Born in 1968, lived in Koonoomoo, Yarroweyah, Katunga and for last 30 years Numurkah.
Attended Katunga Primary, Numurkah High School and Assumption College in Kilmore.
Employed by Kraft for 20 1/2 years, with shift of production of Philadelphia Cheese made redundant, with full entitlements.
Always interested in sound and video, started filming weddings, deb balls, horses to go to auction.
Enjoyed working from home and being part of the life of his boys growing up.
During COVID pandemic with caps on attendance at funerals, streaming of funerals became the norm. The popularity of streaming funerals has been on-going since the pandemic.
During pandemic employed by Cardwells as a host on bus trips, moving on to driving school buses.
Now driving school buses for Holmes.
Doing what he loves, video and school buses.
In keeping with the fun and variety introduced by President Julie Andrew throughout the year, the annual Changeover Meeting was no exception.
Themed as a flight to Hawaii, on-board entertainment was provided by the Numurkah Ukelele Club, with a Hawaiian inspired meal.
Outgoing President Julie Andrew in her report said she was filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. Together, we have made meaningful impact in our community and beyond.
District Governor Neta Kirby presented Faye Holmes with a Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of her service to the annual 4WD Trip.
Club Community Service Director, Geoff Holmes announced the Rotary Community Service Award was being awarded to Leanne Rawson who has been involved in many facets of our local community. Leanne is a teacher at St Joseph’s Primary School and, as her profession denotes, it would be nigh on impossible not to be an integral part of the community development.
After taking a position at St Joseph’s Leanne returned to the sport arena, playing A grade netball, touch football and soccer. In 2021 Leanne started a Park Run, which continues to be run weekly,
Vocational Service Director, Jeff Buzza presented the Vocational Service Award to Ian Tilley for his excellent work as a teacher at Numurkah Secondary College, where he is responsible for our next generation of trades people.
Ian began his career as a machinist, Ian moved progressively into more and more time at Numurkah Secondary College, gaining his Dip.Ed., and has been full time for a number of years.
In conclusion Jeff said, “If I had to describe Ian in a few words, they would be, firm, calm, fair and skilled, excellent qualities for a teacher”.
District Governor, Neta Kirby then inducted incoming President, Linda Boyd.
Linda in her address spoke on the Rotary International theme for 2024-25, ‘The Magic of Rotary”
The magic could be the over 1.4 million Rotarian in the world, perhaps the near eradication of Polio in the world, or supporting the eradication of malaria. Maybe it’s the myriads of international projects which work tirelessly to aid countries and individuals in dire need.
What makes Rotary Magic – quite simply - Rotary members. Linda said "I would like our club to be vibrant and fun, a club for Numurkah Township to view with pride. We will be listening to local people in our community, we will learn what please them, as well as what is lacking and what is required. We will continue to evolve, think outside the box, because any idea is better than no idea! We have a dynamic club, a great work ethic, and we are a team".
Linda then introduced her Board. Photographed left to right, Chris Sutton Secretary, Chris Hardham President Elect, Stephen Mills Treasurer, Geoff Holmes Community Service, Jennifer Rodger International, Jeff Buzza Vocational Service, Julie Andrew Public Relations, Terry Brennan Seargent. Missing Kate Hodge Membership and Michael Tymensen Youth/New Generations.
Themed as a flight to Hawaii, on-board entertainment was provided by the Numurkah Ukelele Club, with a Hawaiian inspired meal.
Outgoing President Julie Andrew in her report said she was filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. Together, we have made meaningful impact in our community and beyond.
District Governor Neta Kirby presented Faye Holmes with a Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of her service to the annual 4WD Trip.
Club Community Service Director, Geoff Holmes announced the Rotary Community Service Award was being awarded to Leanne Rawson who has been involved in many facets of our local community. Leanne is a teacher at St Joseph’s Primary School and, as her profession denotes, it would be nigh on impossible not to be an integral part of the community development.
After taking a position at St Joseph’s Leanne returned to the sport arena, playing A grade netball, touch football and soccer. In 2021 Leanne started a Park Run, which continues to be run weekly,
Vocational Service Director, Jeff Buzza presented the Vocational Service Award to Ian Tilley for his excellent work as a teacher at Numurkah Secondary College, where he is responsible for our next generation of trades people.
Ian began his career as a machinist, Ian moved progressively into more and more time at Numurkah Secondary College, gaining his Dip.Ed., and has been full time for a number of years.
In conclusion Jeff said, “If I had to describe Ian in a few words, they would be, firm, calm, fair and skilled, excellent qualities for a teacher”.
District Governor, Neta Kirby then inducted incoming President, Linda Boyd.
Linda in her address spoke on the Rotary International theme for 2024-25, ‘The Magic of Rotary”
The magic could be the over 1.4 million Rotarian in the world, perhaps the near eradication of Polio in the world, or supporting the eradication of malaria. Maybe it’s the myriads of international projects which work tirelessly to aid countries and individuals in dire need.
What makes Rotary Magic – quite simply - Rotary members. Linda said "I would like our club to be vibrant and fun, a club for Numurkah Township to view with pride. We will be listening to local people in our community, we will learn what please them, as well as what is lacking and what is required. We will continue to evolve, think outside the box, because any idea is better than no idea! We have a dynamic club, a great work ethic, and we are a team".
Linda then introduced her Board. Photographed left to right, Chris Sutton Secretary, Chris Hardham President Elect, Stephen Mills Treasurer, Geoff Holmes Community Service, Jennifer Rodger International, Jeff Buzza Vocational Service, Julie Andrew Public Relations, Terry Brennan Seargent. Missing Kate Hodge Membership and Michael Tymensen Youth/New Generations.
Revd. Gunnar Rippon was guest speaker, locum priest in residence Anglican Parish of Numurkah-Nathalia.
Gunnar explained the name Gunnar was not a nickname but a Swedish name from his father's side.
Born in 1943 in N.E. England, eldest of three boys. Educated locally, becoming a builder's laborer after finishing school. Joined the London Metropolitan Police Force and served for 2 years before returning to Northumberland to be married in 1965. Studied to be a mining surveyor. In 1968 flew to Australia. Taken around Australia in mining industry, Pine Creek, Cairns, Tasmania, and Western Australia.
Served a 3 year contract in Zambia. After serving in mining industry from 1968 to 1997 was retrenched.
Called to be a priest, priested on 3rd June 2001 in Bunbury. Priestly life took him from W.A. to S.A., QLD, Southern Victoria then Shepparton.
Serving in the Diocese of Wangaratta, assistant priest in Shepparton, locum priest, including Numurkah in 2018, them Beechworth before coming back to Numurkah for three years.
Many highlights including abseiling as a bonding exercise, gave a great adrenaline rush.
In Zambia copper mines working 6,000 feet underground, air so hot had to be refrigerated.
Policeman in London highlight was attending boxing match between Cassius Clay and Henry Cooper in Wembly Stadium.
Another highlight was crossing the Nullarbor towing a caravan and breaking down three times, each time stranded in Kalgoorlie, instead of trip taking days the trip took 2 1/2 weeks,
As a priest, privileged to be priested in Bunbury, then becoming Dean of the cathedral before moving to S.A. then caravaning around Australia as a locum priest.
Enjoy living in Numurkah.
The community bus, a joint project of the Rotary Club of Numurkah and NCN Health, supported by the community was on display.
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Heather Kelly spoke to the Rotary Club beginning by saying will not talk about herself but the influence of Numurkah community and individuals on her life.
Arrived in 1972 from Gippsland to a better climate. Husband Shaun joined the cricket club then football club finding sporting clubs hospitality was a great way to meet people.
Through the Katunga South Primary School met families in the district.
Believe the Soldier Settlement Scheme influenced the development and community spirit of Numurkah.
Gained retail experience working for Marj for Fashion and Barbara's fashion shops.
In 1977 worked for Numurkah Leader doing accounts and wrapping papers. When a journalist retired decided to try out for the job.
Regretting not having passed matriculation enrolled in night school at Numurkah High School. Undertook a crash course in English and politics where Betty Moore opened the joy of study and also studied economics by correspondence.
Under editor Lorna Morris, learnt the true definition of deadline stress. Learnt work ethic and the ability to work long hours, if necessary, from Lorna who did everything by example.
Although a male dominated workplace the Leader was a wonderful place to work. Reporting on council meetings leaned how a good solid community works.
In 1979 began a 12-year business partnership in Rag Denn with Pamela Cowan, Pamela the accountant and herself the retail experience. Solidarity of Numurkah gave customers.
Wanting to improve their place of work, joined the Chamber of Commerce to lobby and work with council, learning event management.
After Pam retired continued business for 20 years.
Retirement lasted two weeks beginning to work at McPherson's then Leader, taking on sales and advertising.
Watched Rotary and Lions and as Secretary of Men's Shed and saw the contribution given to the community.
Heather concluded by challenging Rotary to find someone to come up with advice on volunteerism. Where to from here? How do we engage younger local people? How to get a system to attract, as every voluntary group needs to know.The inaugural Lift the Lid Walk for mental health was very successful, supported by individuals, families and dogs.
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Jan Stevens captivated members of the Rotary Club whilst telling her life journey.
Gandparents, Dougal and Bertie Elliott came to Numurkah in 1948 as licensees of the Shamrock Hotel. Mother and father were dairy farming on Gunbower Island, with mother choosing to come back to Numurkah to be with her parents when Jan was born.
Many happy holidays were spent in the Shamrock with grandparents and their friends.
Jan recalled at that time Numurkah had very deep gutters which had to be swept everyday. Fascinated by the guttersweeper, Nan bought Jan a little broom and she would proudly sweep the gutter with Mr. Bob Beswick,
The shopkeepers all got to know Jan and she was well cared for wherever she went.
Eventually Jan and her mum came back to live with the grandparents in the hotel. A separated women bring a child to live in a hotel was not accepted by some at that time.
Jan told of some of her experiences living n the hotel.
Schooldays were wonderful, Numurkah Primary then Numurkah High School. Jan organises a reunion every 5 years.
In 1966 offered a job in the ANZ Bank, marrying in 1969, had to resign as married women were not permitted to work in the bank.
Offered a job at Heard Brother, with Gerald and Graeme Heard, John Weppner, Beryl Ingram and Karen Brown, they were happy days.
In 1975 things on the dairy farm took a downturn and applied for a job at the Yarroweyah Road House much to the horror of her mother.
In 1976 offered a job at Numurkah Primary School, walking out the door 30 years later. Going from Band-Aid lady, answering phones, and writing 3 cheques a month to managing a $2.5 million budget. Jan loved every minute of those 30 years, saying that if you love what you are doing, you'll never work a day in your life.
Happily married for 55 years, with 2 children and five grandchildren.
Now retired play golf, read and volunteer driver for Royal Flying Doctor community transport, the most fulfilling thing in her life.
Jan said she considers herself blessed to claim Numurkah as my home.
Graeme Sutton spoke to the club about his achievements. Born in 1960, grew up on the Naring family farm, attending school in Numurkah. Left school at 16 to work on farm with father. Trucking came into his life driving farm machinery for neighbours to gain extra money.
Obtained license at 18 and granted a truck license at an early age.
In 1982 at 21 years bought first truck, with good season carted wheat, in off season helping on farm. Slowly more trucking less farming, leading in 1982-83 trucking not farming.
In 1984 bought first interstate truck. Worked for Doug Trease for 4-5 years, before branching out on own. Every Saturday night leaving for Brisbane, Monday in Brisbane, back to Melbourne Tuesday, Brisbane Thursday then back to Melbourne.
In 1985 oil-seed factory opened becoming their preferred carrier.
In 1987, bored with trucking drove Deluxe Coaches for three years with cousin looking after trucking business.
In 1989 returned home to trucking and grew fleet to 3-4 trucks. Contracts grew and in 1998 established a depot next to tip.
In 2005 slowly but surely grew to 14 trucks. In 2016 with a shortage of drivers back to eight trucks.
In 2009 son Mitchel left school to become a truck mechanic in Shepparton for 4 years then returned to buy/drive trucks.
In 2018 began coaching Mitchell to take over business.
In 2023 inducted into the Transport Hall of Fame in Alice Springs. After 45 years behind the wheel now works for Graeme Thompson Motors Shepparton.
Mitchel built up customer base due to reputation, now with 21 trucks and 60 trailers.
Jacque Phillips, Chief Operations Office of Murray Primary Health Network fittingly spoke to the club on mental health with the Rotary Club's inaugural "Lift the Lid Walk" for mental health this weekend.
The Murray Primary Health Network stretches from Mildura to Corryong and includes Bendigo.
The service is 75% funded by the Commonwealth Government with 45% of funding spent on mental health and 45% on primary health. Focus to keep clients in communities with local services. Moira has 8 services Shepparton has 10 services.
Aim to provide best care suited to individual needs.
Can step up or down services, not one size fits all.
Supports disadvantaged close to home where possible.
Primary Care based on therapy, clinical care and coordination. Moves between well population, at risk, mild, moderate and severe/complex mental illness.
Royal Commission into Mental Health gave 69 recommendations. Recommendation #4 recommended a staged approach with establishment of a board in each region with an interim regional body to advise department.
Services provided include emergency response to bushfire, flood, pandemic, health, Head to Health, Residential Care, Talk it Out, Suicide Prevention, Phycological therapy support.
Primary Mental Health - Murray PHN focus on:
- low intensity mental health service
- Local service for children and young people
- Psychological therapies for vulnerable group
- Services for people with severe and complex mental health
- Regional approach to suicide prevention
- Local mental health services for First Nations community.
"Head to Health" paving conversation, can be face to face. Contact 1800 595 212
Phycological Support with important focus on recovery. 58 22 8610
Headspace, focus on youth mental health. 5823 5800
Doctors in Secondary schools staffed by G.P.s and Registered Nurses to provide primary care.
Support Services:
Ambulance: 000
Lifeline: 3 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Suicide call back service 1300 659 467
Introduction of fill in guest speaker as Police called out & unable to attend. Jeff Buzza who addressed the dawn service on Anzac Day to re-read his speech.
Guest Speaker – Jeff Buzza with his service beret. Described his military service of 12 years commenced as a compulsory army cadet in high school which he loved. Instead of going to schoolies at end of Year 12 he went to Puckapunyal in the infantry unit to train soldiers & undertook weapons training with rifles & various weapons. Was promoted to Lance Corporal Buzza & had command of 10 men. Training based on last war tactics of Vietnam & the next war for Australia was in the dessert of Middle East. Personal highlights leading Anzac march with 100,000 cheering at War Memorial & meeting Wearing Dunlop. 6 weeks ago completed Oxfam trail with army mates, none of them would have completed the trail without the support of each other. His military career was a fantastic time & he has no mates like those mates.
Guest Speaker – Jeff Buzza with his service beret. Described his military service of 12 years commenced as a compulsory army cadet in high school which he loved. Instead of going to schoolies at end of Year 12 he went to Puckapunyal in the infantry unit to train soldiers & undertook weapons training with rifles & various weapons. Was promoted to Lance Corporal Buzza & had command of 10 men. Training based on last war tactics of Vietnam & the next war for Australia was in the dessert of Middle East. Personal highlights leading Anzac march with 100,000 cheering at War Memorial & meeting Wearing Dunlop. 6 weeks ago completed Oxfam trail with army mates, none of them would have completed the trail without the support of each other. His military career was a fantastic time & he has no mates like those mates.
President Julie introduced a fun night of bingo with Bingo master Judy McDonald.
All members joined in the fun with winners, Andrew Watson, Allen Canobie and Marie Austin.
Dinner was a buffet finger food offering.
Nathan Shannon spoke to the club about J & M Shannon Pastoral.
J&M Shannon Pastoral Company, a 4th generation family owned & operated dairy farm in the Goulburn Valley, milking over 1000 cows in a recently commissioned free stall barn.
Nahan son of Bryan and Lindy always had a passion for farming and dairy.
Educated at St Joseph's, Numurkah Secondary College, G.V. Grammar and Melbourne University studying agricultural science. Spent 7 years with the Department of Agriculture before returning to the farm.
In 2012 returned to farm to experience floods. This was followed by a dry season with high water prices.
2016 a wet season with cows contained and hand fed. 2017 toured US to investigate different systems to achieve goals.
75% of dairy farms in the world have confined under-cover protection from elements with cows being more efficient.
Past eight years there have been three major changes.
Cost and availability of water.
Land values doubled.
Premium for milk increased.
Choice was to relocate or be more efficient with resources on hand.
Further trip to USA and engaged a barn designer. Aim to minimize cows exposure to extreme elements, increasing operation capacity by utilising free stall practices.
Moved to first barn in September, now building a second.
Reflecting whether it was worth it, some days he questions it, other days wondering how they did it. Milking 1500 cows is sure to have its challenges but Nathan is looking forward to it.
Paul Lloyd , Rotary Club of Southern Mitchell was guest speaker to the club on LEMUR relief project for Madagascar.
This Southern Mitchell Rotary international project is designed to support 1,100 Primary School children and their teachers at St. Vincent de Notre Dame de l'Androy (St. Vincent's) Primary School in Ambovombe, Androy Madagascar.
The area has suffered 6 years of successive drought in addition to the Covid-19 pandemic which is forcing families in rural communities to resort to desperate measures to survive.
Donations will be used to provide food, clean drinking water, medicine and school equipment to help parents keep their children fed and to stay at school.
Target is$36,000 to enable sourcing of stationary items, currently waiting for new quotes to source new books, school bags, pencil cases, source new kitchen equipment.
Donations of $27,283 received.
Mark Warpole, awarded "The Best Dairy Farm of the Year" spoke to the club about his dairy farm.
Parents bought a farm in 1978 with dream of eventually milking 200 cows. In 1987 built a rotary dairy and milked 230 cows. In 2012 Mark and Kate visited the USA inspecting dairies and gathering ideas, returning and taking over three farms. Returned to the USA in 2019 inspecting farms and methods.
In 2021 built new dairy and in 2022 started construction of two barns, each housing 1,000 cows in free stall system.
Milking 2,000 cows three times a day, commencing at 2.30am, second milking at 11am and final milking 7pm.
Family work on the farm which employs 38.
Plans for a third barn to increase to 3,000 cows.The 44th Annual Art & Craft Exhibition of the Numurkah Rotary Club was staged in the Numurkah Town Hall from Friday 8th March to Monday 11th March.
The art exhibition displayed a variety of styles and techniques of excellent standard and was appreciated by the public during the weekend.
Rotary Club President Julie Andrew welcomed all in attendance at the official opening Friday night, to an event that promises to be a celebration of creativity, community and collaboration. Julie added that art has the remarkable ability to transcend boundaries, evoke emotions, and spark meaningful conversations.
The exhibition was officially opened by Phillipa Schapper, chair GRAIN Store Nathalia. Phillipa said artists do not work in isolation, they depend on exhibitions like this to display and sell their work.
Art judge, Thel Cardwell congratulated Rotary on staging the exhibition, and announced the winners in each section.
Best in Show was awarded to Kasey Sealy for her painting “Macquarie River”. Thel commented “The river leads the eye through to the middle distance and beyond. Good tonal balance with overall harmony and balance”.
Runner Up was awarded to “Garden Reflections by Do Noble. Thel commented “A great use of colour, tonal values good and lovely colour harmony”.
Best Watercolour Ross Paterson’s “Tree and Sheep Mansfield”. “A great use of watercolour depicting the Australian landscape”.
Best Oil was awarded to “Gothic Arch, Barcelona” by Glen Hoyle. Thel commented “Lovely oil painting, depicting light and shade beautifully”.
Best Pastel “Shady Glade” by Lynda Robinson. “A simple subject with lots of impact”.
Kevin Davis Regional Artist Encouragement Award awarded to Maryann Jenkins for “Three on a log”.
CAN Hub Encouragement “Award Waiting to Work” by Jeanette Graham.
Leigh Teitz was the photographic judge and announced the following awards.
Framed Photographic Award, Shirley Colwell with “Wallaby”. Leigh commented “The author has nailed the technical aspects here and produced a tack sharp image with plenty of detail”.
Framed Photographic Award – Runner-up, went to “Morning Glory” by Joan Barker. “An engaging composition with framing elements either side”.
Digital Art Photographic Award, “Suspended #2” by Dennis Rickard. “Love the simplicity, a great example of less is more” commented Leigh.
Themed Photographic Award – A Touch of Red, Shirley Colwell with “Recap Robin”. “Very nice capture of this little bird with good feather detail, pleasing diffused light and unobtrusive background”.
Claire Reid the craft judged commented on the high standard and wide variety of craft forms in announcing the winner.
Best Craft Entry Gary Phillips with “Windsor Chair”.
Best Knitting and Crochet Justine Georges with “Looming Berries”.
Best Quilt Award Anne Boase with “Nature’s Beauty”.
Best Woodwork, Metalwork and Pottery was awarded to Gary Phillips with Windsor Chair.
Highly Commended was Heather Campbell with “Silk Thread Embroidery Bag”.
Chris Sutton, chair of the Art & Craft Committee of the Rotary Club of Numurkah said, “The club was incredibly please with the standard of work on display, the support of local sponsors and the public attendance during the weekend”.
Pictured Chris Sutton, chair Art & Craft Committee, art judge Thel Cardwell and president Julie Andrew with "Best in Show".
Stephen Homes was the guest speaker at the Rotary meeting.
Stephen grew up in Numurkah, leaving school early and worked for Kel Sidebottom, Gerry Green, abattoirs, drove trucks, leaning work ethic at each, then the Telegraph Hotel where he discovered he was born for hospitality. Changed from a worker to a businessman.
In 1986 bought the buses, still single, thought Numurkah was too small for him at 30.
In 1990 purchased a Yarrawonga Hotel and went to Airlie Beach working in a 160-room resort, starting as barman ending up running the resort. For 4 years worked hard and purchased a restaurant, selling after 6-7 years,
In 2000 purchased a restaurant in Brisbane. Purchased another restaurant which did not go well, getting ahead of himself at the time.
An amazing business life with many ups and downs, spending 25% of time in Numurkah, 25% in Brisbane, 25% on trucks and 25% on holidays.
Loves Numurkah and suggested a project of large signs on highway to attract tourists.
Bev Bell spoke to the club about the Narioka Clydesdale Stud run by the Mahncke family in Picola.
Bev has served as secretary of the Victorian Branch of the Commonwealth Clydesdale Horse Society for 10 years.
The Goulburn Murray area has a rich history of quality Clydesdale horses with teams used in developing the irrigation system network of channels and the Waranga Basin.
Great grandfather had two teams delivering bricks to building sites in Melbourne. Grandfather had a market garden and served on the Federal Clydesdale Council and also served as a judge.
Father is a gifted showman, sharing skills to younger generation. Served on state committee and judged and is an Honorary Member.
Mother also horsewomen was the first women to lead the parade at the Royal Melbourne Show.
At its peak Narioka had 50 Clydesdales, now a more manageable twenty.
Royal Melbourne Show is the biggest clydesdale show with the horses judged the first day then parading each day.
Commonwealth Clydesdale Horse Society has 236 financial members and sponsors events and run their own events.
Bev concluded by saying she considers herself fortunate to work with these animals and it is magical to be close up and personal.
The door is slightly ajar for late entries for the art, craft and photographic sections of the Rotary Club of Numurkah Annual Art Exhibition so get your dancing shoes on and get them in ASAP!
President Elect Linda Boyd reported on President Elect Training attended. Theme for the next Rotary year is "The Magic of Rotary".
With so many avenues of service, Rotary can make a difference.
District Assembly for President Elects and incoming board on March 24th at Benalla.
Linda then asked the club to contemplate the year ahead listing activities month by month.
John Shrimpton and Peter Bilston from the Numurkah CFA spoke to the club about the Good Friday Royal Children's Hospital Appeal.
Royal Children Hospital established in 1870 due to infant mortality. In 1962 moved to Parkville and in 2011 new purpose built hospital built opposite the Parkville site.
In 1931 Sporting Globe newspaper held a sporting carnival to raise funds for the hospital. In 1942 the Good Friday appeal started with radio 3DB holding a full day appeal. In 1957 Channel 7 took over the appeal.
Numurkah CFA in early 70's started a collection on Good Friday raising $1067. In 2023 $21,000 was collected for the RCH appeal.
This year introducing EFPOS and an online virtual tin.
A Family Fun Day will be held on 23rd March with amusements, music, face painting, NCN Health and scouts participating. Aim is to raise $25,000.
The Royal Children's Hospital is a significant provider of children's health with every second person having a connection with the Royal Children's Hospital.
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Speaking with passion, Steve Arnold explained to the visiting Rotary members and guests the role the farm played in producing ingredients for Messina Ice-Cream.
Steve had a background as a chef, food sales, real estate before investing in gelato shops and becoming a farmer.
Saw property for sale in Realstate.com, and purchased.
Philosophy is to produce the best product, and anything you do is driven by that, including all aspects of the farm.
Setting out to be a market maker with a competitive edge.
Beside dairy, chickens lay 1,100 eggs a week in a chicken caravan and a mint farm in greenhouses on the property.
Extract from Messina website:
"Erindale Farm is home to 450+ beautiful jersey cows which supply all the milk for our gelato, plus we bottle it for you to buy in stores. We also follow sustainable farming practises to keep our cows as happy as possible and to produce the highest quality milk:
- We only milk our cows once a day meaning they produce milk which is even higher in fat content. Perfect for gelato making!
- Calves are left with mothers while they are milked and kept side by side in the paddocks until they are weaned.
- We don't feed our cows any grain — they only eat fresh grass and pastures in the fields.
- When we extract our fresh milk at the dairy farm, it's immediately chilled to four degrees, meaning there is no chance for bacteria growth. It's pasteurised straight away and sent to Sydney via chilled transport for gelato processing within the next 48 hours".
Background in music industry management, then with partner attracted to dairy industry. Became aware of the ugly truth of dairy where 5 days old calves were being slaughtered.
While the world was going crazy for free ranged eggs, grass fed beef and crate fee pork, had a passion for an alternative.
Set out on a journey for calves to stay with their mums.
Starting with a herd of 18, the calves came into the dairy with their mums as they were being milked.
Established a production dairy in Numurkah, supplying selected outlets. Cheese proven to be a money-maker.
Involved in the community as president of Love Our Lifestyle.
The Numurkah Baala Creek Festival proved a tremendous success, this year moved to March 16 and hopefully better weather. Festival will be seeking community support.
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NCN Health are proud to be sponsoring the Rotary Club of Numurkah Lift The Lid walk on Sunday May 19.
The Lift The Lid walk has been running since 2017 raising awareness of the 1 in 5 aussies who suffer from Mental Health concerns. 2024 sees the first year it will make it's way to our region.
Tickets are on sale now through the Lift The Lid walk website https://www.liftthelidwalk.com.au/numurkah
All proceeds go to Mental Health Research through the Rotary Health Foundation.
Join us and the Rotary Club of Numurkah on May 19 - bring the family, grab some friends and make a day of it.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝘂𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱!
The NCN Health Community Bus has arrived and is a hit with residents, staff and volunteers. The 11-seater all-abilities access bus accommodates wheelchair access, offers handrails and a modified step entry.
It will be used by residents of Numurkah Pioneer Memorial Lodge and Karinya Nursing Home to participate in community activities and events. The bus will also be made available for community groups in Numurkah who support isolated and aged people.
The new wheels are thanks to Rotary Club of Numurkah who led the fundraiser in partnership with Bendigo Bank and NCN Health. Launched in 2022, the fundraiser was such an enormous success, enough money was raised to purchase a second bus which has not yet arrived.
Rotary Club of Numurkah will host a launch event in the coming months to celebrate all sponsors who donated to the fundraiser to make this bus a reality. In the meantime Thank You!
Pictured are Rotary Club of Numurkah checking out the new bus.
Guest Speakers – Jeff Buzza. 35 years ago Gayle, himself & 3 year old Chris spent 3 months, on horseback after reading the National Trial Guide. This was before mobile phones, digital cameras, solar panels, satellite phones etc. The trail runs from Cooktown to Healesville & covers 5330 km following the Great Dividing Range. At the time Jeff had a high pressure job & decided it was time to spend the time with family. 2 horses were for riding & 1 was a packhorse. Each of them had a saddle bad for personal belongings. The horse carried a tent, 2 mattresses, 3 sleeping bags, cooking gear, outdoor shower, water canteens. Fantastic experience making them realise you don’t need all the luxuries in life & they were able to experience the kindness of others they encountered.
The Rotary Club and Lions Club held their combined dinner meeting at the Bowls Club.
Representing the Numurkah Historical Society, Jeff Blackley, spoke on planning the 150th anniversary of the gazetting of Numurkah and Wunghnu on 8th February 2025.
Planning is underway following a community meeting seeking program ideas.
The Historical Society is seeking assistance from service clubs, organisations, schools, churches, sporting clubs in arranging a program of events over the year.
Commencing with a celebration at Rotary Park on the actual date including opening the time capsule, which has been buried for 25 years and replacing with another today's capsule. Entertainment and a BBQ, and video display are planned.
Easter will see a planned back to school, combined church service and a steam train visit.
Historical walks, tours will be organised.
The Historical Society can not do this on its own and is seeking input and assistance from community groups.
The year will not only reflect on the past history but will also look to the future.
PRESIDENT JULIE'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE.
As we gather together in the spirit of joy and goodwill, I am reminded of the core values that define Rotary - service above self, fellowship, and the commitment to making a positive impact in our communities.
Christmas is a time of reflection, gratitude and giving. It is a season that brings us closer to out loved ones and encourages us to extend a helping had to those in need. In the true spirit of Rotary, let us take a moment to appreciate the power of collective action and the difference we an make when we come together with a shared purpose.
As Rotarians, we are united by a common goal - to create positive, lasting change. During this festive season, let us renew our dedication to service and kindness. Whether it's through charitable projects, acts of kindness, or simply spreading love and joy, let us be the embodiment of the Rotary spirit.
May this Christmas be a time of unity, compassion, and hope. Let us continue to work together, inspired by the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self", and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those less fortunate.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of making a difference. Thank you for your dedication to Rotary and the communities we serve.
Let's look forward to spending time with our own family and loved ones and also taking some time for ourselves.
John Watson and Michael Tymensen spoke to the club about the establishment of a charitable foundation, registered as a not for profit charity with Australian Charity and Not for Profit Commission (ACNC) and ATO.
To be an incorporated entity, structured as a company or trust in accordance with articles.
Requirement to audit statements and forward to ACNC and ATO every year
Significant liabilities and responsibilities on directors.
Require legal advice in establishing foundation.
As a registered charity can take donations with the donor able to gain tax exemption, Funds distributed in activities according to adopted articles.Rotary Club of Numurkah Christmas meeting at the home of Linda and John Watson.
Evening commenced with a garden tour led by Linda Watson.
Followed by fellowship and a dinner with main course ham, pork and chicken with salads, followed by dessert of pavlova, cheesecake, apple crumble and ice-cream.
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ROTARY CLUB OF NUMURKAH 44th ANNUAL ART & CRAFT EXHIBITION
Entry forms for the Rotary Club of Numurkah 44th 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 8th March to Monday 11th March 2024.
Entry forms are being posted to last year's exhibitors and are available from the Numurkah Visitor Information Centre, Numurkah Library and Numurkah Home Hardware.
Forms can also be found on the club's Facebook page and Website below. under Entry Forms.
John Head a podiatrist from Shepparton actively involved in SAM and STAG, spoke to the club. John has written several books and plays, and spoke on his play "Journey to Dookie"
Presented as a play at Dookie Hall in 2016 to a sell-out audience and as "Dookie the Musical" in 2018 at Westside Theatre, again to a sell-out audience.
Play about war, honoring the 16 men from Dookie who lost their lives in WWI.
John highlighted the details of several soldiers. William Blair a stock agent actively involved in the community died in 1917. John Henry Taylor migrated to Australia in 1913, enlisted in 1914, died in 1917.
John visited the graves of 14 in Belgium. Yres destroyed during the war, but since rebuilt has 54,900 names on the Menin Gates memorial, of which 6,000 were Australian.
AIF discipline was poorer than other dominion countries, desertion rates in 1918 British 1 in 1000, Canadians, New Zealand and South African 1 in 16 and Australia 1 in 9.
Indiscipline behind the lines compensated by excellent battle service.
John now serving on the Calder Woodburn Memorial Avenue committee. The avenue was a memorial to an Arcadian farmer who died aged 24. The Memorial is the longest eucalypt memorial avenue, spanning 20 km with over 2,400 native trees commemorating the names of 99 names of local servicemen who lost their lives in WWII.
