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.

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.

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.

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! 🌟

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.

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. 💛💙

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.

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!

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 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 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

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.

Frank’s 25+ Years of Service in Rotary — Fellowship, Action & Lasting Impact

Since joining Rotary Mount Eliza in 1999, Frank has been a steady presence and tireless contributor. From his term as President in 2008–09 to roles in Community Service, Membership, and four years as Bulletin Editor, Frank has helped shape the club we know today.

Frank was the Community Service Director during the design and build the Memorial Garden outside the Seniors Centre — now a much-loved space for Anzac and Remembrance Day services. He also led a major club effort to renovate bedrooms at Fusion, and initiated support for young carers through a scholarship fund and race day at Mornington Racecourse.

Internationally, played a leading role in the project to provide food vouchers to nursing mothers —in an area where hospitals provided neither meals nor basic supplies. And for eight years, he volunteered with Riding for the Disabled, supporting children with disabilities as they grew in confidence and independence.

His proudest Rotary legacy? “Helping others discover fellowship, find purpose and feel part of something bigger.”