Rotary returns $80,000 to community

More than $80,000 raised by Ocean Grove Rotary over the past year will be reinvested into community projects and charities across the Bellarine.

The milestone was celebrated during the club’s annual changeover dinner, where Paul Brewster was welcomed as president, succeeding Lyndy Stagg.

The funding has supported organisations including Feed Me Bellarine, the Bellarine Salvation Army, Australian Rotary Health, Polio Plus and local school scholarship programs, alongside international education initiatives in Bali and Nepal.

Members also partnered with local organisations on a range of community projects, from delivering healthy school snacks through Eat Up Australia to working with Ocean Grove Coastcare and helping recycle playground equipment for overseas communities.

Outgoing president Stagg said it had been an outstanding year for Ocean Grove Rotary.

“Together, we have made a meaningful difference, delivered positive outcomes and strengthened our ability to serve our community,” Stagg said.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our local community for its continued support of our fundraising activities. It is your generosity that makes our work possible.”

Incoming president Paul Brewster reflected on a year that included the Great Barwon River Duck Race, summer markets, the club’s annual art show and its Anzac Day breakfast event.

He steps into the role after multiple years on the committee and said he was honoured to be leading the club forward.

“For decades, our members have built an impeccable record of doing good in the world, strengthening our local community and contributing to international humanitarian projects,” Brewster said.

“I am committed to building on this fine history by continuing our successful projects and introducing new ones which respond to emerging needs.”

Brewster said his priorities included broadening the club’s reach across the South Bellarine and strengthening engagement with younger generations to help shape Rotary’s future.

“We want to ensure that our club reflects and represents all communities across South Bellarine – not only Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads,” he said.

“[We also want to] work closely with younger generations to understand what they see as the most pressing challenges in a rapidly changing world, both locally and globally.

“Their perspectives will help shape our club’s, and indeed Rotary’s, future direction to ensure our service remains relevant and impactful.”

The evening also recognised the contributions of several members, including Marion Walton and Peter Cowburn who jointly received the John Fox Award.