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WHAT'S IN THIS BULLETIN
18 August 2026

  • From Last Meeting

  • Guest Speaker for Next Meeting

  • VIC RESCA Treasurer Needed

  • Kieser Rotary Flyer

  • Gallery
NEXT MEETING
 
Rotary Central Melbourne meets at the RACV Club on the first and third Tuesdays of each month.
 
If you would like to visit our meeting, you are welcome to join us at the Theatrette, Chancery Level of the RACV Club. There is no charge for attending the meeting.
 
If you would like a more general discussion about attending a Rotary meeting, please contact the club secretary at rotaryclubcentralmelbourne@gmail.com
 
The meeting will commence at 7:40 am and conclude no later than 8:30. Members and guests are invited to stay for coffee or breakfast in the RACV Club Bistro following the meeting.
FROM THE LAST MEETING
Rotary Central Melbourne – Meeting Report
Tuesday 4th August 2026
Speaker: Shane Juge, Founder, Safe Roads For Us
Topic: Choices, Resilience and Ripple Effects
Shane shared a deeply personal presentation based on his lived experience following a fatal motor vehicle accident 15 years ago. His story illustrated how a single moment and choice can have lifelong consequences for individuals, families and communities.
Motivated by this experience, Shane founded Safe Roads For Us, a road safety and resilience initiative that uses storytelling and open conversations to help young people reflect on responsibility, risk-taking and safer choices. Its focus includes sporting clubs, parent groups, community organisations and youth groups. Shane also works as a facilitator with RYDA, complementing its school-based road safety programme.
Shane invited Rotary to support the initiative primarily through introductions and community connections rather than direct funding.
Potential Rotary actions:
  • Explore a partnership with Safe Roads For Us.
  • Connect Shane with City of Melbourne youth services.
  • Facilitate introductions to Victoria Police contacts.
  • Introduce the programme through community and sporting club networks.
Key message: One choice can change lives forever. Honest conversations before risks become realities can help prevent future tragedies.
 
Congratulations to Catherine “Cat” Crook, recipient of the 2025 RMIT Apprentice of the Year Award (Built Environment & Sustainability). Cat shared her inspiring journey from fine-dining chef to fourth-year plumbing apprentice, highlighting the importance of leadership, mentoring fellow students, and embracing career change. 
Tree Planting Success
A strong Rotary turnout helped plant approximately 1,220 native plants at the recent environmental project. Thanks to all members and volunteers who contributed to a highly successful day. 
Fundraising Update
The recent Bunnings BBQ raised approximately $1,100 despite challenging weather conditions. Another BBQ fundraiser will be held at Port Melbourne on 9 August. Bunnings events continue to provide valuable funding and public awareness for Rotary projects. 
NGSE Scholar Confirmed
We look forward to welcoming Rosa Mendoza from Nuremberg, Germany, from 9 September to 19 October. Rosa is a violinist, music educator and strong advocate for community engagement. Members will have opportunities to host and support her during her stay. 
Strength for Healthy Ageing
Hamish McDonnell from Kieser Australia presented on the critical role of strength training in maintaining mobility, independence and wellbeing as we age. Members were invited to a special Rotary information evening at Kieser Melbourne on 8 September. 
Club Reminders 
  • Please ensure your Working With Children Check remains current.
GUEST SPEAKER FOR THIS MEETING
Janette Etherington - Rotary and Interplast - changing lives together since 1983
 
Precis:
Since co-founding Interplast with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 1983, Rotary Clubs and Rotarians across Rotary South Pacific have continued to provide essential support for Interplast. The provision of free reconstructive plastic surgery, nursing and rehabilitation in developing nations where these services would otherwise be unavailable have changed more than 20,000 lives. Interplast volunteers also provide sustainable training and mentoring to build capacity in the countries we work with.
 
Bio:
Janette is the Rotary Coordinator at Interplast, a position she has held since 2019. In Janette’s own words, this is her dream job – a part-time role that enables her to combine her shared passion for both Interplast and Rotary. Her favourite part of her job is sharing Interplast’s story, and Rotary’s contribution to it, by visiting Rotary Clubs as an Interplast speaker. Janette is a Past President of the Rotary Club of Nunawading, and has been a Rotarian for 14 years. In previous professional lives, Janette has worked in senior management roles in the general retail and Book-selling sectors, and in the Vocational Education & Training, and Apprenticeship sectors. She has also volunteered as a Director on a number of not-for-profit and community organisation Boards. When she is not working, Janette indulges in her other passions – her long-haired standard Dachshunds, and travel.
 
Treasurer needed to support Victorian RESCA 
Is this your next life-changing moment? Treasurer needed to support Victorian RESCA
 
Rotary Districts of Victoria Emergency Services Community Awards
Victoria RESCA is seeking a volunteer Treasurer to support the ongoing success of the Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards in Victoria. This important Rotary-led Multidistrict program recognises outstanding community service by paid and volunteer emergency services personnel across the state. Vic RESCA is now in its fourth year and enjoys the patronage of the Victorian Governor. You can find out more about Vic RESCA at vic.rescawards.org.au/
The ideal person will be a currently practising accounting or finance professional who is also a Rotarian from one of the Victorian Rotary districts: 9800, 9780, 9790 or 9815.

About the Role

The Treasurer will provide practical financial oversight for Victoria RESCA, including budgeting, financial reporting, payment coordination, record keeping and liaison with the organising committee. The role suits someone who enjoys clear processes, good governance and supporting a program with strong community impact.

We Are Looking for Someone Who

  • Is currently practising in accounting, financial management, audit, banking or a related finance field.
  • Is a Rotarian in District 9800, 9780, 9790 or 9815.
  • Can maintain accurate financial records and provide timely reports to the RESCA committee.
  • Understands sound governance, transparency and responsible stewardship of funds.
  • Is willing to work collaboratively with Rotary volunteers, sponsors and event organisers.

Why Get Involved?

This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute your professional skills to a respected Victorian Rotary program that honours emergency services personnel who go above and beyond in serving their communities.

Expression of Interest

Rotarians who meet the preferred criteria are invited to express interest by contacting the Victoria RESCA Chair Grant Hocking via email granthocking64@gmail.com  Please include your Rotary club and district, current professional role, and a brief outline of your finance or accounting experience.
EOIs close 5th September 2026
 
 
Kieser Event Flyer
GALLERY
Neville 1 and visitor Chris Milner
 
 
Guest speaker Shane Jay
 
Ian Angus award winner Cat Crook
 
Therese Robinson and Cat Crook
 
Doug Robinson recieves Certificate of Service from PP Rohan
 
Ignacio Inchausti recieves Certificat of Service from PP Rohan
 
Hamish McConnell from Keiser