The Rotary Club of Mount Eliza recently held a comprehensive club assembly, providing members with updates across Community Service, Youth, International, Environment and Vocational committees.
The evening highlighted the remarkable range of projects and partnerships currently being delivered by club members across the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.
Community Service Supporting Local Needs
One of the long-running community initiatives discussed was the club’s support of a local school sandwich program coordinated through Peninsula School. Volunteers assist with the delivery of sandwiches to schools across the region, helping ensure students have access to breakfast and lunch support when needed.
Members also reflected on the ongoing success of Rotary fundraising initiatives including Bunnings BBQs, Farmers Market activities and the annual Fashion Parade fundraiser, which has raised more than $10,000 in recent years. Planning is now underway for the club’s upcoming Trivia Night and this year’s Fashion Parade event.
The club also continues to support community pantry initiatives, helping provide essential food supplies to local families experiencing hardship.
Honouring Service And Community Connection
RCME members continue to coordinate Mt Eliza’s ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day commemorations, working closely with local schools, community groups, Legacy, CFA representatives and elected officials.
This year’s ANZAC Day service attracted approximately 300 attendees and was widely regarded as a meaningful and respectful community event involving strong participation from local students and musicians.
Environmental Projects Continue To Grow
The club’s Environment Committee reported continued collaboration with Peninsula Grammar on monthly planting and conservation activities, along with support for local koala conservation projects.
Members also discussed ongoing improvements to the local dog park shelter project and future environmental initiatives planned for the coming Rotary year.
Supporting Youth Leadership And Wellbeing
Youth Service remains a significant focus for RCME.
The club is currently supporting participants in both RYLA and RYPEN leadership programs while also progressing discussions with Mt Eliza Secondary College regarding a major student wellbeing and environmental space redevelopment.
The proposed project includes accessible pathways, sustainable garden beds, improved outdoor learning areas and student wellbeing spaces designed to encourage environmental stewardship and inclusion.
RCME is currently preparing a District Grant application to assist with funding the initiative.
The club also recently provided support to Backpacks 4 VIC Kids, contributing funding to assist vulnerable children entering foster and emergency care.
International Service Making A Difference
Members received an update regarding the club’s ongoing partnership with Overseas Development through Art (ODA) in Cambodia.
RCME recently funded a tractor for the ODA school and farming program near Siem Reap, supporting sustainability and agricultural development at the boarding school.
The school recently celebrated strong graduating results, with members acknowledging the long-term impact education continues to have on students, families and local villages.
Looking Ahead
As the current Rotary year draws toward its conclusion, members also acknowledged the significant work being undertaken in preparation for the upcoming leadership transition and next Rotary year.
The assembly served as a reminder that many Rotary projects succeed because of dedicated volunteers quietly working behind the scenes to support their local and global communities.
For more information about the Rotary Club of Mount Eliza, upcoming events or membership enquiries, visitors are always welcome to connect with the club.