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
Day Three: Finishing off the new chicken shed with wire, fixing locks, finishing off the lighting repairs and mosquito netting. Small health clinic, Hamisi helping out 
Faye taking vegetables to market and Jeff playing on the tractor in preparation for the workers kitchen! Saying goodbye to Happiness 
and welcome to Tivian (3 yrs) who little Zumae (3yrs) took straight under her wing
Day Two: making new gates for tractor shed, shopping for goods at the local hardware shop, replacing light batons & globes, repairing door locks, a very small health clinic, painting the tractor shed, clothing repairs, mosquito netting repairs!
Day one on the project involved welding in the tractor shed, replacing fly wire on the houses, painting the second house verandah, fixing electrical issues, sorting clothes and an afternoon of Scout games organised by Scout Leader Jason!
Our 10 eager volunteers to Umoja Orphanage Kenya from the Rotary Cllub of Numurkah began their journey from Australia, travelling via Singapore and Addis Ababa before finally touching down in Mombasa and continuing on to beautiful Diani Beach.
After that marathon journey, they enjoyed a relaxing afternoon settling in and a lovely first evening at the hotel. I’m sure a good night’s sleep was very welcome! 
Now the real adventure begins, and we can’t wait to share everything they get up to at Umoja Orphanage Kenya.
Karibuni Kenya! Welcome to Kenya! 
Follow our page and join us over the coming days as these wonderful volunteers roll up their sleeves, meet the children and experience the very best of Umoja and Kenya
We made it safely to Kenya! Had a few local drinks and food, a swim and off to bed! Ready for Umoja the next morning!
And they are ready to board the plane from Australia! Safari Nejeme! Another wonderful 10 volunteers coming for an amazing experience at Umoja Orphanage Kenya.
As secretary of Men's Shed Numurkah, I wish to put this proposal to you for Rotary Numurkah's support.
As you know Rotary Numurkah originally set up the Men's Shed and we are asking for your help with a Women's Shed.
The Men's Shed meet on Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9 am to noon. This leaves afternoons and some mornings free. We have been approached by women who would like to use the existing facility.
Both groups would work separately but come together for a cuppa on Friday morning, to continue the social tradition of Men's Shed Friday.
Our statement of purpose
Men's Shed Numurkah is to provide men with a safe place to gather which addresses their mental health and wellbeing. The Men's Shed is a focal point for support groups to attend and pass on information.
A Women's Shed should be able to provide similar support for women.
Matilda Trimble - Rotary Youth Exchange Student 2027
- successful applicant for Rotary Youth Exchange program
- lives in Numurkah with family of four siblings
- chose Italy as he exchange destination for future in engineering/ motorsport
- the architecture
- Grandfather Golly - make sure I mention
- Go over in January 2027
- Go to school at Notre Dame in Shepparton
- I speak a little Italian, can understand a bit of the language
Fizz Mayberry - Kidzfix
- Kidzfix 2013 rally started
- Raise $4500 to particpate
- at least 2 people in a car
- car must be 25yrs or older
- safety requirements must be met
- A roads boss that maps the course (an instruction, not a map)
- 18th September the commencement of the rally
- Supported the NCN Health three times over the years
- This year supporting NCN Health with a jaundice meter, speech and language test kit $21,000
- Supporting Echuca Health $14,000
- 13 projects all up to $290,000 for this year
Amy Tinkler shared a deeply personal account of walking the Kokoda Track, describing it as one of the most physically demanding and emotionally moving experiences of her life.
After arriving in Papua New Guinea, the group quickly discovered that the terrain was far more challenging than expected. There were no flat sections—only steep climbs and descents through rugged rainforest. Days began before sunrise, with 4.00 am wake-ups, long hours of hiking, and constant exhaustion, dehydration and physical hardship.
Throughout the journey, the group visited significant battle sites and memorials where Australian soldiers fought during the Kokoda Campaign in World War II. Standing where young Australian soldiers had fought and died, including locations where Victoria Cross recipients earned their medals, gave the group a profound appreciation for the courage and sacrifice of those who served. Daily memorial services and stories shared by guides and veterans brought history to life, while reminders of the war—such as ammunition and grenades still found along the track—made the experience even more powerful.
Amy reflected on the contrast between modern hikers, equipped with quality clothing, food, water and medical support, and the young Australian soldiers who carried heavy packs, often barefoot, while facing enemy fire, disease and uncertainty about whether they would survive.
Amy and another young member of the group became ill with vomiting and dehydration and steep, narrow tracks demanded complete concentration. Despite the hardships, the group supported one another every step of the way, waiting for everyone to arrive together at each campsite and celebrating every day’s achievement.
One of the highlights each afternoon was reaching camp, where local villagers warmly welcomed the walkers with flowers, singing and genuine hospitality. These simple acts of kindness became treasured memories and provided motivation after long days on the track.
Amy also describes emotional moments of reflection, recognising that every soldier buried along the track was someone’s son, husband, father, brother or friend. Walking in their footsteps created a deep sense of gratitude and respect for the freedoms Australians enjoy today because of their sacrifice.
Overall, the Kokoda Track is described not simply as a hike, but as a life-changing journey of endurance, remembrance, gratitude and personal growth.
GUEST SPEAKER - OZ SOXX - Alex & Jason Andrew
The idea originated after seeing similar products used extensively in the United States.
Most erosion control socks in Australia are filled with coir (coconut fibre) imported from Sri Lanka and India.
Oz Soxx has developed a product using Australian rice straw, creating a local alternative while reducing reliance on imported materials.
Rice straw is packed into biodegradable hessian socks used to:
Control erosion. Filter sediment from stormwater. Protect waterways and drainage systems. Stabilise construction sites and embankments.
The socks are designed to be up to 8 metres long, making installation more efficient than shorter, heavier products.
The product can also be used in urban developments and environmental rehabilitation projects.
Made entirely from biodegradable materials with no plastic components.
Leaves no lasting environmental footprint once it breaks down.
Supports the principles of the circular economy by turning agricultural waste into a valuable product.
Rice straw is often burnt because it is difficult to manage after harvest.
Dr Graeme Emonson, chair adminitrator Moira Shire, guest speaker
With State elections in November, administrators keen on pitch to Government, targeting focus on six areas.
1. Numurkah Flood Levee Stage 1 completed, in the making since 2012, a $5M project. Turn now to Stage 2, being more complex, a $13M project. Detailed design commenced.
2. Family Violence. Moira has the highest per capita rate in regional Victoria. Aim to increase level of response.
3 Road Safety. Crash rate 33% above average. $5M for Naring Road and old highway intersection.
4. Scott Reserve Pavillion in Cobram $7M to bring up to standard.
5. Yarrawonga - Mulwala Bridge.
6. Improvement of Education facilities, a $20M project.
Average rate increase 2.73% with waste charges above that figure due to fuel costs.
Return to elected councilors in 2028. Administrators leave Shire in great condition. Victorian Electoral Commission review of elected representation early 2027. To consider councilors for whole of Shire or for Wards. Keen to have community talking about this.
CLUB CHANGEOVER
Our club's annual change over meeting was held last night at the Numurkah Golf & Bowls Club
Jeff Buzza was the jolly MC for the evening.
President Chris Hardham summarised her year at the helm and handed over the reins to incoming President Geoff Stewart.
Geoff's years' theme is ‘CREATE LASTING IMPACT’
JACK DUNCAN VOCATIONAL SERVICE AWARD
Presented to Abhi Sharma
Abhi and his wife Himani have put their business out there for the benefit of the community. Entering into the Numurkah only 12 months ago. As well as running a successful cafe they have embraced the various community activities that have happened around them.
Abhi initiated the free Father's Day BBQ outside his shop, partnering with Rotary, NAB and Meat on Melville.
He embraced the Say No to Domestic Violence event in November.
Abhi has supported various town events including Show Us Ya Wheels.
As a business community in Numurkah we are pleased to have Abhi and Himani involving themselves and supporting the things that make Numurkah what we are.
COL MCPHERSON COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Presented to Garry McNamara
Garry and his partner Rennie moved to Numurkah 6 years ago and become heavily involved in the Numurkah community after moving there. He became an active member of the Rotary Club of Numurkah initially where he has both spoken at meetings and participated in community events. He “joined every community group in town”.
His involvement connected with broader local projects such as community transport support for elderly residents through partnerships with local organisations including NCN Health.
President of the Numurkah RSL, including leading local Remembrance Day commemorations and encouraging volunteers to support the branch. He has represented the RSL at local commemorative events including: Anzac Day services, Remembrance Day ceremonies, School education visits about military history and National Service.
Garry also joined the Ukele Club where he uses his creative side to entertain. A well deserved recipient.
CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION
John Watson has retired from Rotary and along with his wife Linda were recognised for their service to the community over the years.
PAUL HARRIS FELLOW PRESENTATION
In a surprise for Rotarian Julie Andrew, she was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow for her commitment to the Numurkah Rotary Club.
GUEST SPEAKER - Steve Partington Numurkah RSL
Parents are Pam and Geoff Partington
Grew up in Numurkah
Was a bit of a ‘rat bag’
Never liked school, liked sports (football, hockey)
Wanted to join the army since I was 8 yrs old
Grandfather was my inspiration
Grandfather was still alive when I joined in January 1987 (17 yrs old)
Started at Kapooka
Then moved to Singleton for infantry training
Joined the mounted infantry unit in Holsworthy Sydney
Became the platoon commander's signaler
Went on to do the extended radio training
Had a lot of opportunities afforded as this position
Very good friends with Vietnam veterans which gave opportunities
Never wanted a promotion liked serving on the ground
Got to deploy with a couple of Airforce men as their signaler
Trained for assaults, explosives, detonations,
Went into the army tattoo in 1988 travelling the country - 1st tattoo of that size, around the capital cities of Australia
A military display team and drills was part of the experience
I did the parachuting course which was highly unusual for his role - furthering my career has afforded me special training
Did some helicopter training in the Bell UH-1 Iroquois not Black Hawks
Came back to battalion and qualified for marksman ship with SLR
Had the experience with taking on a small arms teaching role
Then could expand into the Tactical Response Group with NSW Police
Watching the SAS team learn to free fall
Injuries started catching up with me, so I started looking at dog training
Speaking to the military police unit about training
Injury was the reason I had to leave the army
Joined the corrective services in NSW
First jail I worked at was Windsor Correctional Centre
Then went to Parklea (young offender program)
Looking to mentor younger prisoners to do something with their lives
Moved onto security escort service
Became a special constable - an honour
In charge of the armory
Tactical training on the guns/shooting skills
Got into the personal protection side (dogs- tracking service)
Working security at nightclubs as well
Moved onto dog training at Hawkesbury City Council Animal Control
Setting up wild dog/dangerous dog trapping
Ended sitting behind computer for prosecuting cases
ICAC came in to the Council and had to hand everything over
Then moved onto truck driving - got Semi license then B Double license
Did a short stint of Security into Crime Gangs around shopping centres - undercover work with Police
Went into Private Investigator work which I didn't much enjoy
I have two boys and two girls and was involved with their sports, fitness and mentoring of them was rewarding
I then went into Disability Support Work & Aged Care Nursing which has been the most rewarding thing I have done
Ended up working in a lockdown dementia unit
The last few years got into Veteran's Support Groups
Every course and every educational opportunity I took since I left school
Went to Uni at 50 yrs to complete Bachelor of Nursing
Had an AMI at 37, smoked since a young child, put in a defibrillator/pacemaker
Sister and mother became unwell, so I moved back closer to home
Now the President of the Numurkah RSL, still assisting Veterans where he can
Subbranch Numurkah celebrates 100 years in 2028
See less
GUEST SPEAKER - Rohan Sprunt
- Last one of the Sprunt clans (in my generation)
- Seventh child, born on the 7th day of the 7th month 1970
- Came to Numurkah for schooling from Nathalia
- Doug McKeown was a mentor
- Turned out to be an accountant as a trade
- Didn't learn about computers until yr 11
- Went to University in Bendigo, came home on weekends for football and the farm
- Worked behind the bar running glasses and doing ‘unqualified’ security work there
- Got a job at Darrly Twitt Motors - Mitsubishi
- Was a receptionist, salesman and accountant
- Living with Eva Golt - grandma
- Ended up doing the accounts for five franchises working toward Y2K
- Put in an Incentive Program to get reports early to make informed decisions
- Spent ten years with Darryl
- Finished in 2002, milking cows before work and Graeme was alone on the farm for mum
- Director of Genetics Australia and a Board Member of Jersey Australia
- Was a part of pulling together the states and creating Jersey Australia
- Last three years has been diagnosed with aggressive arthritis in hips and spine
- Found out my hip joints are the wrong shape which accounted for multiple hamstring injuries over the football career
- Found out he has the gene for early arthritis as does brother Graeme
- Farm was settled in 1874 by William Golt, fourth generation of farmers - Kaarimba
- Use to mark the trees with an axe so you could find your way home (heavily treed area)
- Last flood came from a direction never happened before
- Grazing, wheat, cattle and sheep originally
- Dad met mum at the old-time dance at Kaarimba
- Dairy cows were started in the 1960's, first Jersey registered in 1964
- Late 1970's dad got into showing cows
- Took a large team of milkers to Melbourne Show - a team of 25
- Rohan had photos of Melbourne Show in early 1980's
- If there was a show on, everyone went
- Brian Leslie went through all his data and found nearly two pages worth of accolades for the show cows
- There is no money in showing cows - after dad died, all the show cows got sold off to pay debts
- Oldest brother Peter found some of the old cows rearing calves on a NSW stock route and brought them home again
- When dad got sick, he told everyone he was sick (not what with) he passed away 7 months later
- No life insurance, debt on the farm
- Graeme was left at 18 yrs to run 1000-acre farm
- Last of the cows were then sold and the farm got leased out
- July 1984 Graeme and Rohan started milking cows again, leasing 400 acres off mum
- 1986 renovated the dairy to 12 bales
- Started looking at buying the farm off the family, and then bought everyone out
- July 2002 had recently gotten married, purchased another 80 acres off Peter
- In 2005 was in USA on holiday, Graeme rang and said about building a new dairy
- Got into the new dairy in May 2006
- 16 aside with rapid exit, readable tags, 130 cows
- Got 15% more milk
- New pivots onto farm to change from dryland to irrigation
- 2016 very wet year, purchased more cows and another block
- Milked up to 410 cows, believes are healthier if they can graze grass
- DPI worked out getting 15T/Ha of grass at their farm with lots of testing
- As of last week, we were named the second highest Jersey production farm
- The Jersey cow is 21% more efficient than a Holstein cow
- Went down the track of biodynamic fertiliser 15 yrs ago, which has improved soil health and increased dry matter per Ha
- We are the only farm in Australia that is a Master Breeder in Australia for Jersey and Holstein
- Genomic tested herd, which has proved itself
- Won a number of accolades in showing cows at IDW
- Recent sale had great results which IDW had built our profile
- Had four sales over their journey
- Rohan spoke about the great individual results of cows and bull semen sales
- Still have 350 young stock to join to a breeding program to come up for sale soon
INDUCTION TO BROKEN CREEK CONNECT
- Jamie & Gareth Adams joint owners of the Olde Creamery at Waaia
- Proposed by Camille Montgomery
- Welcome :)
GUEST SPEAKER - Marissa Daly (NCN Health)
- Communications Officer
- Talking about ‘the new Lodge’
- A lot of advocacy over many years for a new Aged Care facility
- The current building is 50 yrs old this year
- Not fit for purpose any more
- Given 55 million dollars
- Nicholson Builders from Bendigo have been appointed
- Building commencing now
- New facility being built adjacent to hospital near Hurley Court
- A lot more space and communal areas, same number of beds (36)
- Adhere to Aged Care Commission modeling
- The biggest change will be the idea of ‘households’
- Allows for privacy, two households x 14 and 1 house x 8
- Larger bedrooms & ensuites
- Falls detection technology
- 2 x interconnecting rooms
- Project Control Group Committee - The vision is to bring the building to life, honouring the history, culture, comfort
- They will oversee several working parties for consultation with Model of Care, Food & Environment, Wayfinding & Access and processes
- Naming of the new Lodge and the three households open to the community and closes on 5th June
- Marissa left some survey forms on the naming of the new Lodge and households
GUEST SPEAKER -Wayne Limbrick
- Umoja Orphanage
- Going again in August for 7th visit
- Group of 13 going
- RC Numurkah will then be going post the first group
- Umoja started in 2011 Kenya
- Currently housing 16/17 kids
- New 2-month-old baby has just come, potentially another on the way
- Dedicated a lot of time and effort over the years supporting the home
- Wayne spoke about the early years at Umoja
- A decision was made to build a coral brick fence around the perimeter of the project because of the safety/security from the local village
- Need about $100,000 to finish the fence, RI will do a matching grant of $50,000
- RC Shepparton Central are starting an online auction to raise the required funds
- Found a potential RC in Kenya to support the global grant
- Looking for donated goods around the country, but using a platform that can lump the goods in 4 different areas
- Auction will be run through ‘Rally Up’
- Will go ‘live’ on 1st June - 17th July
- Looking for donations from our club to assist with the fundraising
- Current raffle for a week in Palm Cove accommodation running as a fundraiser
- Error | RallyUp
COMBINED SERVICES NIGHT
GUEST SPEAKER STEVE HOLMES
Mr Steve Holmes a well know local figure was the guest speaker for the evening.
Steve started his talk explaining the Holmes Family history
He then branched out into his colourful life, starting from him leaving school early (around 15)
Steve fondly remembered all his bosses from early life, keeping what they taught him all through life
They taught him work ethic, and whatever you give, you will get back
Commended Lou Hamon as his Scout Master - a real treasure!
Life philosophy - you only get out, what you put in
Steve said that it's not in the Holmes genes to retire, but keen for a bit more balance
Steve explained his extensive work/life experiences with great humour and candour
Final words were ‘towns don’t grow without service clubs and community involvement'
he Rotary Club of Numurkah in partnership with the Rotary Club of Albury North organised two Mental Health Resilience & Wellbeing workshops run by Bjelkie Lansdown from BLMC.
The workshops were very well received with attendees being treated to a BBQ dinner/breakfast and home-made morning/afternoon tea.
