The club board meeting on October 30th focused on operational matters for the most part but did approve a donation of $5,000 to The Boroondara Family Network. The Community Service Committee has proposed a local project to rejuvenate the garden beds at the Salvation Army Camberwell. Problems with transferring money to Sierra Leone have hindered the startup of the new project in Buedu to provide a solar powered pump and water storage and disitribution facility at the Aladura Primary School. A sub-committee led by International Service Director Amelia Anderson and Don Heath has been set up to trace missing money transfers through the banking system - a task which has proven to be quite challenging.
There were changes at the top too, with PP Don Heath taking over the Club Secretary role from PP Carol Benson, effective immediately. PP Thelma Hutchison will assume the Club Treasurer role for another year.
To read a more detailed summary of the October board meeting, click on read more.
Board Meeting Highlights – October 30th, 2025
President Helena Wimpole opened the October Board meeting with a warm welcome to members and guest Wayne. Helena reminded everyone that including an Acknowledgement of Country is a matter of personal choice for each meeting chair.
There were some changes to the team this month: the Board accepted Carol’s resignation as Secretary, with appreciation for her contribution. Don Heath has stepped into the Secretary role, and Thelma Hutchison has kindly taken on the job of Treasurer. Both appointments were approved with thanks and enthusiasm.
The Board confirmed the minutes of the September meeting and noted steady progress on a few important tasks — tracing missing overseas funds, testing a new Westpac payment app for the Boroondara Farmers Market, and updating our Membership Operating Guidelines.
Don presented the Treasurer’s report, showing September payments of $3,489.47 and income of $4,009, both approved by the Board. Thelma has completed the annual accounts, which are now with Richard B. for review ahead of the AGM on Wednesday 26th November, to be held via Zoom.
At the Farmers Market, Wayne reported that quotes for new marquees have come in, and the team is looking at more sustainable bunting ideas (possibly a hose reel solution!).
Alex shared that after the huge success of our 50th anniversary celebrations, this year’s Christmas party will be a smaller, more relaxed affair on December 16th. Upcoming speakers include Graeme Cockerel from Lions’ Need for Feed program (Nov 11) and Julie Mason speaking about the Rotary Foundation (Nov 25).
Wendy reported that the club has donated $5,000 to the Boroondara Family Network and will help build a new garden bed for the Salvation Army Camberwell. Volunteers are still needed for the Bread Run on November 13th and December 11th.
Joanne celebrated a great result from our End Polio Walk in the Park, which raised $3,075, and reminded members that Rotary Christmas cakes and puddings are now on sale.
Amelia gave a full update on our international projects, including progress on the Washstand and Tank project in Sierra Leone, support for schools in PNG and Boroko, and contributions to programs in Sumba, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
Anita is leading some creative membership marketing ideas — including bookmarks and a Farmers Market marquee — while Chris confirmed two students are set for NYSF and one for RYLA.
Finally, the Board approved a Leave of Absence for Joanne Shentu from November 27th to December 19th.
The next Board meeting will be held at 6:00pm on Thursday, November 27th, at the Auburn Hotel.