Community
22 May, 2024
Rotary members help make a difference
COBDEN and district residents have been encouraged to consider joining the Rotary Club of Cobden.
Club member Gary Kimber said this week being National Volunteers Week was a timely reminder to think about the volunteers across Corangamite Shire who give their time.
“No matter which town, volunteer people and groups of all ages plan, prepare and work on projects with an aim to provide the very best for their community,” he said.
“Rotary International is one such group of volunteers and the Rotary Club of Cobden has worked for Cobden and surrounds for 58 years.
“Our members are of both genders and ages range from 29 to 75.”
Mr Kimber said the club currently has 10 members in addition to Friends of Rotary who assist the club on a needs basis.
He said the “days of just old men in stuffy suits” was well past.
“We do hold meeting each week; but again the old days of ‘you must attend every week’ are well gone,” Mr Kimber said.
“Members have very busy lives outside Rotary with families, work, recreation, sport, etc.
“When called on to come to a meeting or assist one of the many projects, members choose if they are available or not.”
The club continues to keep active within the community and have supported a number of projects including Cobden Mini Golf, awards for schools, fundraising for Cobdenhealth, supporting youth activities like the 1st Cobden Scouts, catering, Simpson Speedway and Heytesbury Show.
“Our main emphasis is on youth, aged care and groups/people in need of assistance and ensuring that Cobden and surrounds is a better place to live,” Mr Kimber said.
He encouraged residents to reach out to volunteers and volunteer groups this week.
“We all know of volunteers and volunteer groups. In this week of celebration, try to find some time to talk to one of them, congratulate them and perhaps offer to help out or even consider joining,” Mr Kimber said.
“Congratulations to all volunteers and keep up the great work.”
For more information about the Rotary Club of Cobden, contact Gary Kimber on 0439 079 098.