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.
Joining Rotary can be a leap into the unknown, but for Andy Simpson, it quickly felt like home.
Invited by fellow Rotarian Cathryn Leonard, Andy first attended meetings in August last year and officially joined Rotary Mount Eliza in October. “I was impressed by how everyone made you feel welcomed – such a friendly bunch,” he recalls. “Sitting at different tables each meeting meant I got to know more people.”
The decision to join came naturally. “They’re good people, working on projects I really liked. We’re at a stage in life where we have the time and ability to help more.”
Jumping in with Both Feet
Since joining, Andy has thrown himself into a wide range of activities:
Sausage sizzles & farmers markets – quickly earning the unofficial title of sausage sizzler and bacon & eggs master.
Golf days – helping organise the Mount Eliza Golf Day by sourcing raffle and auction prizes, as well as playing in Sorrento’s charity golf day (finishing second as part of a mixed team) and preparing to play at Frankston in October.
Wheelchairs for Kids – assisting with unloading and setting up over 50 wheelchairs at Mount Eliza Primary School, supporting the program that provides mobility for children in developing nations.
International Connection
Supporting the International Committee, Andy and Yvonne visited Cambodia last year to personally deliver greeting cards produced by students at Opportunities for Development through Art (ODA). The cards, printed in Australia with club support, raise funds for the school. “It was wonderful to see the excitement on the children’s faces, talk with them in English, and bring a couple of their artworks home.”
Committees & Fellowship
Currently involved in the Community Committee and helping organise guest speakers, Andy also enjoys Rotary’s social side, including home hosting. “It’s given us a great way to make friends in the area – some I now play golf with or meet for dinners outside Rotary events.”
Message to Prospective Members
“I’d say – just do it. Rotary isn’t all-consuming, you can say no if you need to, and it’s a great group of people doing good things.”
With a strong start and plenty more ahead, Andy is already making a difference – and looking forward to the next project.
