A Community Partnership Delivering Real Impact
Each year, the Mornington Community Support Centre identifies children and families who would benefit from support during the festive season. This year, approximately 90 children aged 0–12 were invited to take part.
The Centre provides Rotary with each child’s first name, age, and gender. This allows the club to purchase individually selected, age-appropriate gifts—all thoughtfully chosen, wrapped, and tagged by a team of dedicated Rotary volunteers. Gifts and vouchers are budgeted at around $30 per child, with the overall project cost shared equally between Rotary and the Community Support Centre.
A Magical Journey with Mr and Mrs Claus
Families board the historic train at Mornington and travel to Moorooduc Station, where they are greeted by Mr and Mrs Claus ringing bells and bringing smiles to children who often have limited opportunities for joyful community experiences.
As the children arrive, Santa presents each with their individually selected gift before they head into a warm, welcoming space for refreshments and connection.
Food, Fun, and Community Connection
Rotary volunteers provide a free sausage sizzle, drinks, and treats. The Mornington Community Support Centre generously contributes with additional donated items including ice creams, lollies, water, Christmas hampers, and meat vouchers for families.
Local police officers join the train journey, providing a rare opportunity for many children to engage positively with police in a friendly and supportive environment. The involvement of Moorooduc CFA further reinforces the inclusive, community-wide nature of the event.
A Model of Rotary Collaboration
This project is a strong example of Rotary-led community collaboration, combining the strengths of multiple organisations to create an experience far more meaningful than the sum of its parts. The Christmas Train supports vulnerable families, enhances community-police relations, and showcases Rotary’s capacity to respond compassionately to local need.
