Alfredton Rotary is back in action for 2023 with a variety of projects and events in store for all. They have already been barbecuing at Bunnings Delacombe, raising funds for their community projects and one of those projects, Eatup is up and running again for term 1.

Eatup involves delivering sandwiches to more than 30 schools in Ballarat and further afield, ensuring that even if families are struggling, children can rely on a cheese sandwich being available at lunchtime. The bread is supplied by Woolworths free of charge, the sandwiches are made by Year 7 & 8 students at Ballarat Grammar who volunteer afterschool to help and Caine Property and Nature’s Cargo also support the program. Rotary volunteers coordinate with the schools and deliver the sandwiches fortnightly. So far since 2017, over 39,000 sandwiches have been made, delivered, and filled hungry tummies!

A new option for Alfredton-Lucas Retirees! Probus is Fun and Friendship in Retirement. Probus provides retirees with the opportunity to connect socially. Membership is open to anyone who is retired or semi-retired. Probus Clubs offer a range of activities including trips and outings for members to enjoy, depending on their interests, lifestyle and location. Members meet monthly, to enjoy the company of like-minded fellow retirees and listen to interesting guest speakers. Make new friends, listen to interesting guest speakers, learn a new skill, explore new interests and hobbies - there is so much to choose from when you become a member of your local Probus Club. Alfredton Rotary is proud to sponsor the launch of this new option for retirees looking for fun and friendship. To register your interest, RSVP to Kathy Rivett 0417 053 319 kathyrivett@hotmail.com or Margaret Robinson 0417 541 775 marg.213@bigpond.com

The Rotary Leadership Institute provides a fun an interactive way to develop leadership skills while learning about the wider world of Rotary as an international organisation. Club Presidency rotates every year, and leaders are needed for various different roles including Public Image, Community & International Service, Membership, Social Events, Youth programs as well as project leads and BBQ captains!

Alfredton members are also involved in District leadership with Kathy Rivett being the current District Governor, leading 50+ Rotary clubs covering an area that stretches from the Bellarine to Mount Gambier and Swan Hill to the south coast. Other members are on various District and National committees, so the leadership options are limitless and there is always a need for those who hate the thought of leadership but love being involved in community or international projects.

The Rotary International Convention will be held in Melbourne, 27-31 May. Thousands of Rotarians from Australia and around the world will join to learn from each other andinspiring speakers and spend time getting to know each other. Making the world a little bit smaller and more peaceful by creating friendships and connections across the globe.