Service Above Self

We meet In Person

Tuesdays at 6:00 pm

Toorak College

Mt Eliza
Mount Eliza, VIC 3930
Australia

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0418 319 101

Email:

secretary.rcme@gmail.com

Dinner Meeting at Toorak College & Zoom Meeting Conference Number 82650442487

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February 2026

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International Women's Day Breakfast

International Women’s Day | Give to Gain

We are proud to announce that the recipient of funds raised at this year’s International Women’s Day Breakfast will be Moonah House — a new, community-led initiative supporting women and children experiencing family violence and homelessness on the Mornington Peninsula.

Hosted jointly by the Rotary Clubs of Frankston, Mt Eliza and Rosebud–Rye, our IWD event is about turning words into action. Moonah House is working towards opening its doors in 2026, providing safe accommodation and trauma-informed support so families can rebuild their lives with dignity.

Member Spotlight: Jo Baker – Friend of Rotary

We recently welcomed Jo Baker, a Friend of Rotary, who shared her personal and professional journey with our club — offering insight, warmth and a powerful reminder of the value of community.

United for Good: Supporting Dress for Success Victoria

“How do I get out of bed today?”

For many women, this is not a philosophical question — it’s a daily reality. No job. No income. No confidence. Sometimes no safe home. And often, no belief left that things can change.

Welcome to Rotary Mt Eliza: Glenys and Mark

The Rotary Club of Mt Eliza was pleased to formally induct Glenys and Mark as new members at our recent meeting.

Both Glenys and Mark bring previous Rotary experience from their time living in Brighton, and we are delighted they have chosen to continue their Rotary journey with our club.

Rotary is built on fellowship, service and shared values, and Glenys and Mark embody the principles that guide all Rotarians — integrity, respect, altruism and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference in the community.

During the induction ceremony, members were reminded of the importance of the Four-Way Test, which underpins everything we say and do:

Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

We look forward to Glenys and Mark becoming actively involved in our projects, fundraisers and community initiatives, and to the contributions they will make as part of our Rotary family.

On behalf of all members, we warmly welcome Glenys and Mark to the Rotary Club of Mt Eliza.

Rotary Mt Eliza Supports Life-Saving Medical Aid and Clean Water Projects in Ukraine

Tonight our club had the privilege of hearing from Teresa Lachowicz, Ukraine Crisis Appeal, powered by RAWCS and supported by the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations - Australia’s largest humanitarian aid fund supporting Ukraine.

Australia Day 2026 Brings the Mount Eliza Community Together

The Mount Eliza Village Green was alive with colour, laughter and community spirit on Monday 26 January as residents and visitors gathered to celebrate Australia Day at the Rotary Club of Mount Eliza’s annual community event.

Featured Member - Sue Voss

Interview with Rotary Mt Eliza Member – Sue Voss

Why Rotary Matters, How It’s Changing, and the Gift of Giving Back

Recently, we sat down with long-serving Rotary Mt Eliza member and past President Sue Voss to talk about her Rotary journey, what motivates her, and why she believes Rotary is as relevant today as ever—especially for younger members.

Bringing Christmas Joy to Local Families: The Rotary Christmas Train Collaboration

The Rotary Club of Mt Eliza was once again proud to partner with the Mornington Community Support Centre, Mornington Railway Preservation Society, local police, and the Moorooduc CFA to deliver a truly heartwarming Christmas tradition for disadvantaged children and their families.

It’s OK Not to Be OK: Rotary Supports Youth Mental Health in Our Community

It’s OK Not to Be OK: Rotary Supports Youth Mental Health in Our Community

The Rotary Club of Mount Eliza was honoured to welcome Georgia and Tyla from It’s OK Not to Be OK to our recent meeting for an inspiring and deeply moving presentation on the state of youth mental health across the Mornington Peninsula.

Both presenters brought a unique blend of professional knowledge, community experience, and powerful personal insight. Georgia, a qualified social worker with experience at Reach Foundation, youth crime prevention, and Headspace Frankston and Rosebud, shared her passion for early intervention. Tyla, a local 22-year-old with strong ties to the Peninsula and a participant at the Paris Olympics, brought energy, authenticity, and lived understanding of the challenges facing young people today.

Remembrance Day Service

Each year, the Rotary Club of Mt Eliza proudly organises the community’s Remembrance Day Service on November 11, traditionally held at the Mt Eliza Heritage & Memorial Garden adjacent to the 55 Plus Club.

This year, due to inclement weather, the ceremony was held indoors at the 55 Plus Club — a warm and respectful setting for such an important occasion.

The event was masterfully compered by James Farquharson from the Frankston RSL. Captain Paul Mandizy, Royal Australian Navy, delivered a powerful and heartfelt address, beginning with Australia’s involvement in World War I and reflecting on our nation’s greatest single wartime loss — the sinking of the HMAS Sydney in 1941.

Koala Conservation on the Mornington Peninsula

Protecting a Local Icon – Dirk from Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation (MPKC)

At a recent Rotary Club of Mt Eliza meeting, members and guests were privileged to hear from Dirk, founder of Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation (MPKC). Dirk shared his remarkable story of how a simple Facebook page has grown into one of the Peninsula’s most active conservation movements.

New Member Spotlight: Meet Mark!

New Member Spotlight: Meet Mark! 🌟

At our recent meeting, new member MarkRodman shared his incredible life journey — from England to Zambia, South Africa, the US, Latin America, Singapore, Europe, China and finally… Mt Eliza! 🌍✈️

Mark spent 45 years in the tech industry, travelled the world, owned a vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula 🍷, and first discovered Rotary through Rotaract in South Africa.

Rotary Unites for The Ranch and The Ranch 2.0

On a stormy evening that only underlined the need for warm beds and safe shelter, members from Rotary Frankston and Rotary Mornington Peninsula gathered to hear an urgent, inspiring update on The Ranch 2.0 — the community-led crisis accommodation project that has become a lifeline for people experiencing homelessness across the Peninsula.

Watch the video below to get an insight of what homelessness means to people on the Mornington Peninsula.

https://vimeo.com/965580658?fl=pl&fe=vl

https://www.theranchdocumentary.com.au/

A Successful Start to Spring with Our Annual Fashion Parade

Rotary Mt Eliza’s Annual Spring Fashion Parade once again proved to be a highlight of the local social calendar — bringing together community spirit, glamour, and generosity in equal measure. Held at the Mornington Golf Club, the event marked a wonderful start to Spring and showcased the power of community coming together for a good cause.

Mt Eliza Fire Brigade 2025 Annual Dinner & Awards Night

District Grant Project: Playgrounds Bringing Joy Across Continents

District Grant Project: Playgrounds Bringing Joy Across Continents

In partnership with Newlands Rotary, Cape Town, our club is proud to support the installation of 11 playgrounds in informal settlements on the outskirts of Cape Town — bringing joy, play, and safe spaces to children in vulnerable communities.

Thanks to the Rotary Overseas Relocation Program (RORP), many of these playgrounds are also being relocated to other parts of Africa and Pacific Island nations, where communities would otherwise be unable to afford the cost of playground equipment.

Hands On Learning Visit to RCME

At this week’s meeting we were inspired by Lisa Vagg and Russell Kerr, who shared the story of Hands On Learning — a program born at Frankston High School and now running in over 140 schools nationwide.

By giving students one day a week to learn through real projects in schools and the community, Hands On Learning builds skills, belonging and confidence. Locally, Mt Eliza Secondary College has proudly embraced the program since 2014, with Rotary Mt Eliza supporting student projects along the way.

Mt Eliza Primary Early Act Club

This year, Mt Eliza Primary School launched its first EarlyAct Club—a partnership with Rotary that’s inspiring the next generation of community leaders.

Lynsey Breen, who coordinates the program at the school, says the students have gained so much:
✨ Awareness of their local community and how they can make a difference
✨ Leadership skills through assemblies, presentations, and running meetings
✨ Organisation and event management experience

Families have loved seeing their children become more community-minded, and projects like the “Wheelathon” created real buzz across the school.

We’re proud to support EarlyAct and can’t wait to see these young leaders continue their Rotary journey into secondary school and beyond. 💛💙

Rotary Members Share Travel Tales

At a recent meeting, Neil and John took us on two very different journeys – from Neil’s safari adventures in Tanzania to John’s stories of life in rural France. Their talks highlighted the wonder of travel, culture, and community.
[Read more →]

An Evening of Insights with Dr Michael Galak

At our recent Rotary gathering, Michael shared stories from his life that were both thought-provoking and entertaining. From cultural reflections to personal anecdotes, his talk reminded us of the value of resilience, humour, and understanding each other.

A big thank you to Michael for an engaging and inspiring evening of fellowship and learning!

New MemberMember Profile: Andy Simpson – From Newcomer to Active Contributor

Meet one of our newest members – Andy Simpson!
Andy joined Rotary Mount Eliza in October after being invited by Catherine Leonard. Since then, he’s been busy: from running sausage sizzles and bacon & eggs at the farmers market, to helping organise our Golf Day, unloading 50+ wheelchairs for children in developing nations, and even visiting a Cambodian art school we support.

“It’s a great group of people doing good things. You can help as much as you like – and you can say no if you need to.”

We’re thrilled to have Andy (and Yvonne!) in the club, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Rotary Berdychiv

Rotary Mount Eliza Welcomes Rotary Berdychiv, Ukraine

In August, Rotary Mount Eliza met online with Rotary Berdychiv, a newly chartered club in Ukraine. Despite the challenges of war, Rotary Berdychiv is already making an impact through clean water initiatives, environmental projects, and support for children in need.

The meeting highlighted shared values, potential collaboration opportunities, and the beginning of a lasting international friendship.

Rotary Community Awards July 2025

Rotary Celebrates Community Spirit with Special Awards

At our recent Rotary meeting, we were proud to shine a light on two outstanding individuals whose contributions reflect the true spirit of “Service Above Self.”

Charlie Clarke – Community Environmental Award

Charlie Clarke was honoured with a Rotary Community Award for his exceptional work leading Year 9 students from a local school in environmental rehabilitation along the Mornington Railway corridor.

Bella Potter – Shine On Award Recipient

The Shine On Recognition Award was presented to Bella Potter, a remarkable young woman whose journey has turned personal challenge into purpose.

Silva Mcleod: Flying Against the Wind

At our recent Rotary gathering, we were privileged to hear from Silva Mcleod, trailblazing pilot, storyteller, and author of Island Girl To Airline Pilot. Silva’s journey is one of courage, heartbreak, resilience, and deep humanity — from losing her brother due to lack of medical services in Tonga, to breaking barriers in the aviation industry, and now empowering others through storytelling and leadership.

She reminded us that life can change at any age — from becoming a pilot in her 30s, flying for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, to becoming one of the first Tongan women to captain a 777. Her message? “Life doesn’t end when your wings are clipped — you just learn to fly a different way.”

We thank Silva for her inspiration and for reminding us all that it's never too late to follow your dreams.