Rotary calls for volunteers to keep life-changing project alive

A ROTARY club-led initiative giving new life to decommissioned playgrounds in disadvantaged overseas communities is in urgent need of new volunteers to ensure the project survives into the future.

Established in 2016 by Torquay local Peter Cribb, the Rotary Overseas Relocated Playground project has helped upwards of 400 playgrounds find new homes in countries such as India, Fiji and the Philippines.

Four clubs now lead the charge, including Geelong Central, with many others across the country also supporting the collection and transport of this unused or unwanted equipment to youngsters who, in most cases, have never seen a playground before.

But, Mr Cribb said, many of these hard-working club members are burnt out and eager to pass the baton to other individuals and community groups able to lend a hand.

“It’s going to die because the people that are doing it are simply unable to continue.

“The Geelong Central Rotary Club’s been reactive and has the support of lots of Rotary clubs in this area, but they’re all getting tired.

“We’re not getting younger. Rotary clubs are not getting many new members and existing members are ageing, and even though the work now is less physical than it used to be because the industry is so keen on the project, it still requires time and effort.”

With contractors now handling the dismantling of the playgrounds donated to the initiative, volunteers are needed to assist with just a few simple steps: the identification of suitable playgrounds for relocation, the photographing and tagging of the equipment to ensure it can be assembled correctly when it arrives at its new home, and the storage of that equipment until it is ready to be shipped.

Mr Cribb said for as little as an hour’s work on a rare occasion, locals who partner with the project have the opportunity to spread joy to children who need it most.

“You wouldn’t believe the excitement.

“Some of the ones that Geelong Central have installed, for example, have been in the Philippines in some of the world’s worst slum areas. You can imagine what a change in life that actually brings for kids in the area – and we’re doing it at no cost.”

To get involved, contact the Rotary Club of Geelong Central directly or contact Peter Cribb via email at [email protected]