Rotary Club of Numurkah Christmas meeting at the home of Linda and John Watson.

Evening commenced with a garden tour led by Linda Watson.

 Followed by fellowship and a dinner with main course ham, pork and chicken with salads, followed by dessert of pavlova, cheesecake, apple crumble and ice-cream.

John Head a podiatrist from Shepparton actively involved in SAM and STAG, spoke to the club. John has written several books and plays, and spoke on his play "Journey to Dookie"

Presented as a play at Dookie Hall in 2016 to a sell-out audience and as "Dookie the Musical" in 2018 at Westside Theatre, again to a sell-out audience.

Play about war, honoring the 16 men from Dookie who lost their lives in WWI.

John highlighted the details of several soldiers. William Blair a stock agent actively involved in the community died in 1917. John Henry Taylor migrated to Australia in 1913, enlisted in 1914, died in 1917.

John visited the graves of 14 in Belgium. Yres destroyed during the war, but since rebuilt has 54,900 names on the Menin Gates memorial, of which 6,000 were Australian.

AIF discipline was poorer than other dominion countries, desertion rates in 1918 British 1 in 1000, Canadians, New Zealand and South African 1 in 16 and Australia 1 in 9.

Indiscipline behind the lines compensated by excellent battle service.

John now serving on the Calder Woodburn Memorial Avenue committee. The avenue was a memorial to an Arcadian farmer who died aged 24. The Memorial is the longest eucalypt memorial avenue, spanning 20 km with over 2,400 native trees commemorating the names of 99 names of local servicemen who lost their lives in WWII.

Mick Hogan was guest speaker at the Rotary Club meeting. Mick grew up in Waaia, attending St Mary's in Nathalia. Left school aged 15 years and commenced an apprenticeship at Konigs in Shepparton. During his mechanical apprenticeship completed year 10.

Returned to family dairy farm but was more interested in machinery side. Branched out into hay contracting but was impacted by the drought. Took up laser driving, started earth moving, considering it better then milking. Bought an excavation business in Waaia, later moving the business to Numurkah.

Worked with Goulburn Murray Water on their water efficiency program. Business grew working on G.M. Water $2.2billion future flow connection program, replacing wheels with meters making outlets more efficient. 

Strategies include everything from channel maintenance, channel lining, lasered channels, polypipe systems through to a fully automated pipe and riser system using patented Hogan Pressure Seal Riser system.

Business now has 40 employees from initial 4. Transitioning forward with developers, with focus to keep work force employed.

The Rotary Club held a vocational visit to Dan Buzza Furniture. Commencing with a BBQ, Dan Buzza, after the meal, spoke to the members and showed them around the workshop.

Dan served his apprenticeship in Shepparton, opening his own business in a loft at the back of the hardware store. Eventually moving to premises with Diverse Builders in Meiklejohn Street, before expanding and purchasing the entire building.

Uses computer generated 3D software to discuss plans with clients, begore producing a workshop plan. Business has an apprentice and another tradesman.

Dan explained he loves working in wood, and the business has grown reaching Finley to the north and Nagambie to the south.

• To see firsthand and experience working and passing on skills.
• Experience a third world country, not as a tourist.
• Meet and work with other volunteers with same motivation.

• Jim, a retired executive director of DPI NSW.
• Tony, a retired medical supplies consultant.
• Julie, nurse and farmer.
• Charlotte, student.

• Hydroponic collection system for recycling.
• Painting workers house.
• New curtains for worker's house.
• Health Clinic.
• Chook shed repaired.
• Build new table and shelving for new house.
• Paint external doors of first house

• Friendship with locals.
• Meeting volunteers.
• See how locals live.
• Feeling a part of the project.
• Learnt to be flexible, tolerant and patient.

Sarah Peters a vet nurse at Numurkah Vet Clinc spoke to the Rotary Club.

Lived in Tocumwal since 2017, with two boys, a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old, and many pets. Worked at Numurkah Vet Clinic as a nurse since 2020.

Left school early and worked at a Trail-riding Centre where she fell in love with horses. Undertook training at Box Hill Tafe Institute in hospitality and horse breeding.

After 10 years commenced working back in the industry at the Jerilderie Vet Clinic as a vet nurse, then offered work at Numurkah Vet Clinic.

Privilege to get up each morning and know what you are doing is making a difference.

Numurkah Vet Clinic employs six vets and 5 nurses and 4 other staff offering high quality service at a reasonable price.

Staff love the pets as much as they love their own children.

Stacey Willaton, Principal of Numurkah Primary School spoke to the Numurkah Rotary Club.

Lives in Shepparton, husband a teacher, three boys, all into sports, eldest 18 years, youngest 10 years.

Born in Bendigo, father a builder, mother a teacher, lived in a caravan.

Building their third house with father assistance. Spending time with family, coffee with grandmother weekly, travelling and camping with family main interests.

In 2016 spent 6 months travelling Australia,

Studied at Monash University for a science degree, from 2000 - 2007 taught biology and maths at Northcote High School. In 2008 moved to Shepparton High School, then spent 12 years at Shepparton East Primary School, Acting Principal during COVID, teaching science and art. School grew from 117 students to 280.

In 2022 decided to branch out and applied for Principal position at Peranbin Primary College in Violet Town. The College has 4 campuses, Violet Town, Strathbogie, Baddagine and Swanpool.

Successfully applied for Principal at Numurkah Primary School, now in 11th day.

Goal is for Numurkah Primary School to be a safe and happy place for everyone, and an inviting place for students, teachers and parents.

Working to get to know each student and their families.

Jeff Buzza spoke to the club on accepting the Push-up Challenge.

The challenge started in 2017 by Nick Hudson and a bunch of mates to get into shape with the challenge of 100 push-ups a day.

In 2018 participants in challenge totaled 1,000.

In 2018 Nick underwent heart surgery and was hit with depression.

2019 saw 50,000 participants and in 2022 there were 153,000 participants who raised $10M

The Push-up Challenge runs from June 1 to 23 with participants required to complete 3,144 push-ups, varying from 84 to 219 a day. Able to catch up, but cannot bank for future.

Fund raising is optional with the choice between, Push for Better Foundation, Lifeline or Movember.

All participants have an App on their phone which sets daily targets, keeps track of daily totals, ability to see how members of your team are doing, learn about mental health, start push-up preparation, fundraising tips and a message for the day.

Jeff found Push-up Challenge through his participation in Movember, Participants can undertake challenge on their own or join a team.

The challenge is good fun, keeping you healthy and fundraising for a good cause.

Jeff accepting club challenge.

Kevin Morland was guest speaker to the Rotary Club. In deciding what to speak about, entered Talk to Rotary on AI Chat.

Generated two page speech, which Kevin read from speaking of  the impact of Rotary by collaboration, seeking opportunities, sharing vision and unlocking potential.

Kevin finished by saying AI exciting and unique but possibly dangerous.

Kevin, the newly appointed manager of the Numurkah Golf and Bowls Club, then spoke about himself. In 1998 invited by Grant Duffy, the manager of the golf club, to accept position as office manager.

In 1999 experienced a hold-up by two men with a gun, complied, then tied up. Left with anger, with the outcome of the Golf Club being more secure, and heightened his awareness of happenings in environment of club house.

Completed an Advance Diploma in Club Management and became involved with Club Managers Association.

COVID impacted the club in many ways, and still dealing with staff issues of overdue long service leave and absence due to COVID. In recruiting staff now trying to look broader with older recruits, as well as young.

Now steering the ship with challenging opportunities of a club with 1,000 members in a town of a population of 5,000.

Lilly Harrison with Link, spoke to the club about assistant animals.

Assistance Dogs are trained to help their human who is living with a disability. They respond to needs that are specific to their human’s disability by using their advanced skills. This allows their human to engage in activities that may otherwise have been too difficult or challenging.

Dogs help with depression, anxiety, mental health, PTSD, physical disability.

These dogs carry over all the benefits of a loving pet and, with their added training, are able to provide this support both at home, and out in public spaces.

Public need to understand when a dog has a vest on, it is invisible and not to be distracted or patted.

Dogs can be any breed with the right temperament.

Lily undertook 40 hours training with Link which involved basic obedience, ability to cope with traffic and crowds then class training, learning how to interact with handler and their needs.

Legally a medical device but to handlers a member of the family.

Mark Nordbye, Royal Flying Doctor Service coordinator spoke to the Combined Services Dinner, hosted by the Numurkah Lions Club.

 The Royal Flying Doctor Service is one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations globally, providing extensive primary health care and 24-hour emergency service to people who live, work, and travel across the 7.69 million square kilometers of Australia.

Patient transport service was launched in Numurkah in October, following launches in Heathcote then Rochester, and currently developing eight sites.

Mark Nordbye, Community Transport Coordinator, advised the service has 270 registered clients in Numurkah and has conducted 660 transports.

The service is free to clients over 65 years with a Pension or Health Card, transporting clients to medical appointments in a 100km radius. The service enables clients to keep their independence and remain in their homes for as long as they are able.

Staffed by volunteer drivers, the service started with 4 and now has 12 with two SUV cars and a bus.

Service expanding to Cobram.

Darcy Brennan, a former Numurkah resident, spoke to the Club.

Family moved to Numurkah in 1940 when aged 2 years. Father died in 1946 and family moved to Melbourne for 12 months before returning to Numurkah. Family home retained in Numurkah till 2017.

Darcy a pharmacist had interests in pharmacies in Numurkah, Shepparton and Melbourne.

Joined the Rotary Club of Footscray in 1986, serving in many roles and revised history of the club.

The Club established the Rotary Club of Footscray Community Trust—in conjunction with the James Flood Trust, funds were derived from the sale of collector’s item, motoring publications, with the annual interest donated to local charities and formation of Western Region Aged Care. With the sale of the facility the foundation has $6M invested with annual donations of $240,000 being made.

Darcy expressed his desire to see a foundation established in Numurkah, with the Rotary Club undertaking a leading role in establishing, administering and seeking donations.

Numurkah has many outstanding attractions such as steam engine, farm machinery display, POW Plantation and local hospital. The foundation could contribute to further amenities and attractions.

The Rotary Club visited David Hodge's vintage tractor collection.

David thanked the owners of the vintage cars for bringing their cars for display.

David spoke on his father's dedication to the Rotary Club of Numurkah over 46 years. Graham's priorities were family, farming and Rotary. Maintaining 100% attendance, Rotary was a great part of his life.

David then spoke of his tractor collection, detailing there history of the Lanz Bulldog tractor. The Lanz Bulldog was a series of tractors manufactured by Heinrich Lanz AG in Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Production started in 1921 with the Lanz HL, and various versions of the Bulldog were produced up to 1960, one of them being the Lanz Bulldog D 9506. John Deere purchased Lanz in 1956 and started using the name "John Deere Lanz" for the Lanz product line. A few years after the Bulldog was discontinued the Lanz name fell into disuse. The Lanz Bulldog was one of the most popular German tractors, with over 220,000 of them produced in its long production life. The name "Bulldog" is widely used in Germany as a synonym for tractors even today, especially in Bavaria.

David spoke on the history of the other tractors in his collection, a 1938 John Deere, Jim Powel's Ferguson and a 1936 Bulldog among them.

Cate Eddy, Principal of Numurkah Secondary College spoke to the club as guest speaker. Brough up in a stable, loving family on an Invergordon orchard. As a child enjoyed summer, swimming and bike riding.

Educated Invergordon Primary School and Numurkah Secondary College, encouraged to enter university. Settled in Melbourne and graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science. Having great memories of school, teaching came to mind at the end of the course.

Married and travelled around Australia, working on farms. Returned to University and graduated with a Diploma of Education, returning to district and teaching at St. Mary's, with heart in public education taught at Wanganui for 27 years. Netball a big part of her life.

In 2013 with unpredictability of orchard business, pulled out the trees, and enlarged the farm.

Loved helping people, particularly the young, assisting with family problem or physical or mental illness, and building relationships.

Moved to Numurkah Secondary College as Assistant Principal, and after one year appointed Principal.

Changes at school have seen the development of greater opportunities in choice. Goal is to make NSC the school of choice for local families. Options for students include traineeships, or Bendigo or Melbourne University. The trade area important part of program.

Recruited well, with nine teachers commencing this year.

Proud to be a former High School student and proud to be back as Principal.

Situated on five farms of a total of 430 acres, 22,500 plum and nectarine trees have been planted, with proposed expansion to 550 acres with apples and cherries.

• Solar bollards along walking track.
• Revamp structure at Kinnaird Wetlands.
• R.V. Campsite signage of towns amenities.
• Board walks at Kinnaird Wetlands.

Chair & Guest Speaker - Phil Seager. Recently travelled to the Elvis Festival in Parkes which attracts thousands of visitors. Toured “The Dish” facility & shared a physics trick he learnt. Phil displayed photos of their recent trip with friends to the south island of New Zealand. After flying to Queenstown they travelled via bus & a helicopter to get them to Lake Manapouri to board a 30 meter boat which catered for 32 passengers for a week. Captain James Cook surveyed the area back in 1772 on the “Resolution” which was 34 meters long & catered for 72 sailors. The captain, cook & numerous crew members had to be replaced during the trip due to Covid. Gumboots were required to trek through the mud as the area receives between 3 – 8 meters of rain. Phil & Fiona finished off the trip with another week in NZ before returning home.

On behalf of the Numurkah Historical society Jeff Blackley welcomed members of the Rotary Club of Numurkah and Historical Society members. Planned to be an outdoor meeting but held indoor due to the weather.

The Historical Society has undergone many changes over the last 4 - 5 years.

The Society is proud of its work in updating displays with the addition of a tool shed, police cells, witness box, railway display, laundry, bathroom, upstairs costume display, dairy shed.

This year the Society has collaborated with other organisations such as Rotary and RSL with the Soldier Settlers Memorial, Numurkah Secondary College year 8 and 9 local history elective with tours and visits, a Society bus tour and walking tour of historical points of interest, with a brochure produced, and Show Us Your Wheels with displays and cobber cars.

The museum has been visited by school groups, S.A. historical group, reunion groups from High School. Cemetry walks are well attended, and people researching family history.

In 2025 Numurkah and Wunghnu celebrate their 150 year celebration on gazetting as towns. The Society is keen to mark the occasion and will soon call a public meeting of organisations and groups to gauge interest and form a committee to plan the event.

The Historical Society is planning to undertake the placement of plaques on historical sites.

• GrainCorp has added 2 million tons of new equipment.
• GrainCorp together with CSIRO and V2food established a $4.4M plant-based protein research.
• Auscol collects cooking oils and convert to renewable oil.
• GrainCorp and Loam Bio, collaboration on soil carbon.
• From Surf to Turf funding boost for fertilisers.
• Injected $30M into AgTech.

Rotarian Garry McNamara was guest speaker, filling in at the last minute when scheduled guest speaker was unable to attend due to floods.

Garry previously spoke to the club about his army service, this time speaking about being a jockey.

Prior to army, wanted to be a jockey, left school early for a job at Deloraine Racecourse stables. First job was cleaning the boxes. Apprenticed as a jockey, then called up for National Service.

Returning to Ulverstone stables, riding and breaking horses in. After marriage moved to Ballarat, then a stud farm learning about breeding horses.

Moved to Brisbane and joined the army.

Fr. Jophin Joy parish priest in the Numurkah and Nathalia Catholic Parishes was guest speaker.

Fr. Jophin grew up in a middle-class farming family in India, farming 5 acres mixed crops, relying on physical labour due to hills.

At the age of 15 years began orientation at a seminary. Three years orientation, then three years Bachelor of Theology. Believed that he could help others by joining priesthood. After ordination first posting was to a Pilgrim Centre then 2011-15 assistant priest and from 2015-20 a parish priest.

Sought to go to Australia for pastoral ministry but had to wait 2 years before borders opened. Arriving in Melbourne with a fellow priest, taken to Bendigo then moved at Shepparton as assistant priest. Now parish priest for Numurkah and Nathalia Parishes.

Every day a new experience with language and culture. Well supported by parishioners in his new role

Challenges, with the grace of God, he can face.

Jason Stevenson, proprietor of Stevenson Fabrications spoke to the club.

Grew up on a farm in Naring, wanting to be a stock agent, was advised by father to get a trade. Attended Numurkah High School technical wing, then apprentice for 8 years in Shepparton in vehicle manufacturing.

Rented a shed in McDonald Street opposite GrainCorp, and established business Stevenson Fabrications.

Employ a staff of 15, predominately working for big companies including GrainCorp with 2 employees doing maintenance work. Fresh Milk Holdings another big company with 13,000 cows in barns, and Numurkah Solar Farm with 23 staff on-site and managing 120 employees during construction.

Pressure on small business is recruiting full time staff, relying on Secondary College for engagement of apprentices. Within workshop have to be versatile with big and small jobs. Installed a $300,000 laser cutter, and now a folding machine.

Looking to expand to a block on the highway, as running out of room in McDonald Street.

Kushaal Kishore spoke to the club about his life journey.

Boin In Fiji, raised in a small country town, after graduating at High School enrolled in University of Suva, interested in medical profession. In 2007 commenced 4-year pharmacy course. Undertaking elective in Townsville.

Undertook 7 years in retail in Fiji, able to provide point of difference to people with opportunity to interact.

In 2017 moved to work in Harvey Bay then Cobram to finish internship. Fiji degree recognised in Australia but required to do an internship and sit for a Pharmacy Board exam.

Having grown up in a small town, found Numurkah comforting with satisfaction from interacting with locals. Planning to stay as enjoying the country lifestyle and being part of the community. Kushaal considers it a privilege to serve the community.

Omen Volovu, manager homelessness program of Salvation Army was guest speaker to the club.

Malaga House, in Nathalia, was formerly owned and run by the Aboriginal Advancement League but fell vacant when services were transferred to Rumbalara Shepperton.

Homelessness is a human structural challenge caused by domestic violence, finance, relationship breakdowns.

As house prices shot up, social housing reached used by date and not replaced.

Salvation Army acquired Malaga House in Nathalia to be used to shelter women 55 years and above as six out of ten homeless are women.

Women facing challenges from housing crisis, financial crisis, gender gap in wages, and marriage breakdown are offered one year accommodation.

During that time, they are taught life skills and linked to business, assisting in getting jobs. The women find who they are and who they might be.

Malago House has 12 self-contained bedrooms with two living areas. The bedrooms are complete but living areas require dining room sets, TV's.

Aim is to pick them up and walk with them.

• Chicken shed completed.
• Tank stand completed, which also provides two levels of accommodation.
• Employing 7 full time employees plus casuals.
• Food production for orphanage with excess for sale.
• Second children's house practically completed.
• New hydroponic greenhouse almost completed.
• Second water tower being constructed for solar pump.
• Workshop established in container.
• Second house primed and one coat of paint.

• Install solar pump.
• Re-fence compound.
• Final paint of new house.
• Repaint existing house.
• More training on tractor.

Dominique Cosgriff, proprietor and editor "Numurkah Leader" spoke to the club.

A story of a single mum, triumphing over adversity. Attended Shepparton High School, moved to Melbourne, them travelled the world, married, then single mum to two children.

Son a cabinet maker, living at home, daughter in Melbourne, Masters in International Development. Being a single mum hard, but rewarding.

Completed a writing and editing course at TAFE, free-lanced at Shepparton News, other jobs included kitchen-hand, SPC tomato line. Applied unsuccessfully for a job as a journalist at Numurkah Leader, after three months re-interviewed and offered job.

Every day different, meeting lots of people. Ownership of Numurkah Leader offered with plan to purchase in 2020, then COVID hit, with pause in plans. Eventually taking over in March 2021, the beginning of a new chapter.

Right opportunity came at the right time. Accepted role because of local community spirit and terrific team at Leader.

Major hick-up when new CEO of Moira Shire unwilling to accept any article exposing anything about Shire not favorable.

All hell broke loose! Unique job running a small country newspaper, being independent, tenuous position when on own. Moira Shire pulled advertising, but readership rose up in support. A David and Goliath struggle, but community support unbelievable. Broke a rule for newspapers, in not to become the story. Struggle showed staunch community and staff  appreciation of free press.

Since then, one year on things going well. Still loving every minute.

• Allow clubs sharing geography, culture to organise on ways that suit them.
• Eliminate duplication, to make more responsive and cost effective.
• Best resources easily accessible to every club.
• Improve communication to enhance club and member engagement.
• Grow membership.
• Attract more community, corporate and government sector support by communicating with one voice.
• Foster more diverse perspectives in decision making.
• Enhance leadership and personal development activities to better suit our modern world.
• Reduce the burden of administration responsibilities placed upon leaders.

• Democratically elect Region Council.
• Area leader elected by 10-25 clubs
• Any Rotarian can nominate themselves.
• Representation important - geography, gender.
• 2-4 year term.
• Collect best resources to help support each club.

1. A Triple Zero call (000) triggers an alert to be sent to a GoodSAM Responder.
2. The responder is told the location of the patient and the nearest available defibrillator (AED).
3. At the same time, the closest available ambulance is simultaneously sent to the patient, and in some parts of Victoria, the fire brigade is also dispatched.
4. Meanwhile, the GoodSAM Responder can provide CPR and, if possible, make use of the nearest available defibrillator. This gives the patient a greater chance of survival. 

Paul Arnel, principal St Joseph's Primary School, spoke to the club reflecting on the school community over the last two years.

Started on high anxiety, with school closed, called on all resources, issuing lap-tops. Youngest staff members showed prowess with technology and ability to stay connected.

Role of school shifted from academic to social and connectiveness for students and families.

Best possible staff managing own family life, managing students on-line and assisting their families.

Rotated staff through lockdowns, rotating students and families through school.

Families that had been struggling, struggled more through COVID. Tried different strategies to maintain links, providing food hampers, games and social contact, with focus on social aspect.

Frustration towards the end with families sick of home learning.

On return, students had to cope with masks, air-purifiers and cleaning.

A year and a half on, students found it difficult to fit in, extra staff engaged to assist students struggling.

Vigilant in practices, conservative, flexible and adaptive and always hopeful. 

• Diversity - welcome people of all backgrounds, cultures, experiences and ideals.
• Equity - ensure each person has access to resources, opportunities, network and support.
• Inclusion - create a culture where each person knows they are valued and belong.

• Satellite - members with sponsor club choose their own structure.
• Passport - members attend any club.
• Corporate - members work for same employer.
• Cause-based - members unite to address a particular cause.

– Stacey & Michael operate Deadly Art which displays & sells indigenous artefacts, didgeridoos & art works from local artists including their own. They first opened in March in Meiklejohn Street but have recently moved to Melville Street.
Stacey spoke of her Pop, Cecil Clayton who served in the Australian Army as a Soldier & was a Rat of Tobruk. After he returned from war 9 of his 13 children were taken.
Michael demonstrated an Emu Caller to imitate the mating calls from emus, a whacking stick, digging stick & a Yorta/Yorta walking stick which can be become a weapon. The indigenous motto is “what you take from the land you must use” – no wastage.
An invitation was extended to Michael & Tracey to join next year’s Art Show to display their works.
Michael attempted the digeridoo.

Terry Brennan spoke to the club on his background as an A Grade Automotive Engineer. From 1924 to 1998 the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce trained and certified A Grade Automobile Engineers.

Terry, an apprentice with Rod Hurren, undertook the course with requirement, must be over 21 years, minimum of 7 years experience 2 year night school then sit for exam, which required a 70% pass rate.

In general, the candidate is expected to have a knowledge of the construction, operation, diagnosis, maintenance and repair of the various automotive systems and components. The syllabus included, Fitting and Machining, Welding, Electric Arc, Precision Tools and Trade Calculations, Engine Reconditioning, Transmissions, Final Drives, Electrical, Carburetors, Tuning, Adjusting & Diagnosis.

Examination is practical and theory written paper. with a 4 hour and another 8 hour theory exam.

Numurkah had a strong showing of A Grade Engineers, including among others, Doug Grenness, Doug Allchin, Frank Coonerty, Arnold Hern, Russell Blake, Don Chandler, Don Wilson and Adrian Doody. Numurkah had 44 mechanics when Terry started his apprenticeship.

Dr. Jennifer Coller, Cardiology lead G.V. Health, attended Melbourne University in 1997, with elective in fifth year served in Madras, India and Samoa. Returned for internship at RMH, then a year in UK. Returning for cariology training with PhD in Heart Failure at St Vincent's, then G.V. last seven years and in 2021 Cardiology Lead.

Cardiology Disease causes 1 in 4 deaths at a great cost to the Australian economy.

Patient story of a 62 year old women with Heart Failure.

• complex medical history, heart disease, arterial fibrillation and heart failure.
• managed by multiple specialists with multiple presentations to E.D.
• educated around heart failure.
• fluid retention.
• clear action plan devised.
• advanced care planning.
• no recent hospitalisations.

Outpatient consultation at G.V. Health consultation suites with establishment of two outreach clinics, consultations 1000/year. Specialties: heart failure, AF/arrhythmias,  interventions, congenital heart disorder. Connected Cardiology with monthly outreach clinics focus on heart failure and echocardiography fortnightly.

Rapid Access Atrial Fibrillation Clinics with aim to early review of E.D. presentations.                      Cardiac Ambassadors Project with aim co-ordination of care.                                                                      Heart Failure Collaborative with aim to reduce heart failure re-admissions.

300,000 in Australia with Heart Failure 1.5% of population.                                                                Symptoms - breathlessness, fatigue, waking up in night with very short breath, feeling breathless when lying down, swollen ankles.

John Watson guest speaker spoke on Incitec Pivot and his involvement.

Pivot was formed in 1919 as a phosphate co-operative producing superphosphate with farmers only as shareholders, farmers initially purchasing shares at $10.

In 1997, corporate raider Doug Shears began buying shares to gain control of the company, with a move to demutualize the company. At that time, the company had 45,000 farmer shareholders and was the biggest co-op in Australia. Having 3 to 4 directors on his side, he ran candidates for the board to gain control.

John Watson and Allan McCallum ran a campaign opposing David Spears candidates, gaining 75% of votes cast. Chair and Deputy Chair controlled AGM and declared John & Allan lost on a technicality. Taking the case to the Victorian Supreme Court, John & Allan won. Following board meeting John was elected chairman.

New directors were recruited, but management was still a problem. Down the track, the CEO made a financial blunder, with banks moving to declare the company insolvent. Working through this in 2003 Pivot merged with Incitec.

In 2006 Southern Cross Fertilisers was purchased and in 2008 Incitec Pivot purchased Dyno-Nobel explosives business, becoming listed in the top 24 companies on the ASX.

In 2011 John retired. Of note, Incitec Pivot is the only manufacturer of urea in Australia, with Ad Blue now produced for the trucking industry.

Claire Birch, Community Engagement Officer from Indigo Power, spoke to the club on community energy in our region.

Power hubs are organised and run by volunteers with the aim of 100% renewable energy.  Groups formed to carry out a variety of projects in type and size.

Benefit to communities include enabling equal access to the benefit of renewable energy, whilst combating and improving economies in regional towns. Projects provide a lasting legacy for future generations and provide management in times of emergency and disaster.

Community Power Hubs collaborate and support community engagement for communities to organise and implement renewable energy projects that benefit communities.

Projects underway in the North East include EV chargers and community storage batteries

Jacque Phillips, CEO of NCN Health spoke to the club on Aged Care Services.

NCN Health has four residential aged care facilities. Pioneer Lodge and Karinya in Numurkah, Irvine House in Cobram and Banawah in Nathalia.

Short term respite offered in residential aged care facilities as well as transitional care beds in hospitals for up to 18 weeks.

What is offered: Home Care Packages, Home Support, Planned Activities Groups, In home Respite and Career Support available as well as a Retirement Village - Gwandalan Court in Numurkah. 

Residential aged care short stay respite up to 63 days per year offered.

Commonwealth Home Support offers support at home for those over 65 years with careers, housework, personal care, meals, transport, shopping, allied health and social support available..

Home Care Packages with four levels. Must be assessed by My Care, referrals will be made, free assessment with Aged Care Assessment Services.

Australian Government subsidised Aged Care Homes, residents contribute to cost if they can afford to do so. Financial assessment is only valid for 120 days.

Basic daily fee is $53.56 per day. Some accommodation costs paid in full by the Government with a means test based on your income and assets. Accommodation costs can be paid in lump sum, daily or combination of both.

You can apply for as many homes as you like, all providing, all care needs, doctor, transport and social activities.

You choose a Home Care Service Provider that is right for you. Government pays provider on four package levels, Basic, Low Care, Intermediate and High Care. You are expected to contribute up to three levels.

Squish Davis conducted an entertaining Trivia Quiz, with results in 3rd Place: "Scratch Maker" and "Bikers Plus One" Tables, 2nd Place: "Yes" Table, 1st Place: "Distinction" Table.

PRESIDENT GARY PHILLIPS welcomed members and our guests, Lions Club members, to the annual combined first meeting of the New Year held in the Numurkah Bowls clubrooms due to heat.

Gary thanked Geoff Holmes for organising the meal with thanks to Geoff Holmes, Gary Phillips and Ivan Routley as chefs.

The meal and fellowship was enjoyed by all present.

 

 

 

 

A relaxed evening on a beautiful night at the home of Rex Shields and Judy McDonald. After nibbles and drinks an entertaining floor show of "Celebrant in training", secretary Jennifer Rodger, presided over the renewing of vows on their 50th Wedding Anniversary, "played" by our hosts Rex and Judy.

A gourmet meal of ham, chicken, salmon and salads followed by pavlova, fruit salad and trifle dessert, was enjoyed by all.

Janine Connolly spoke to the club on her visit to India in 2020, the first time leaving Australia. After daughter Jade finished a two week surgical course in Ooty, India, Jade was joined by her mother Janine and brother Tim for an eleven day tour of India.

Spending time in Southern India,  Sindita, Karnantaka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, then flew to Delhi in the north for three days visiting the "Golden Triangle" of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

Travelled by car, boat, jeep safari and houseboat, visiting Agra Fort, Taj Mahal, Jaipur the pink city and Amber Fort, and Great Backwaters - 900km of waterway.

If travelling by car must have, good brakes, good horn and good luck, and watch out for the cows.

Presentation of Club Officers for 2022/2023 by President Elect Rex Shields.

President: Rex Shields.

Immediate Past President: Gary Phillips.

President Elect: Julie Andrew.

Secretary; Jennifer Rodger.

Treasurer: Stephen Mills.

Directors:

Youth: Michelle (Squish) Davis.

International: Kate Hodge.

Foundation: Geoff Austin.

Vocation: Chris Hardham.

Club Service; Gary Phillips.

Community: Julie Andrew.

Public Relations: Lou Hamon.

Abhinay (Aby) Dolar newly appointed Director Clinical Services NCN Health Numurkah, was guest speaker.

Born in India, mother a nurse. Trained in India and spent 2 years as an industrial nurse. Emigrated to Australia working at Toowoomba where he undertook further studies for Bachelor of Nursing, then moved to McKay Base Hospital for 4 years, spending some time relieving staff in smaller hospitals under McKay Base.

Moved to Melbourne for business studies. MBA, working at Royal Melbourne Hospital. Returning to India to marry. Moved to Adelaide for 1 year, then to a management position at Ceduna for 2 years, managing aged care, ED and ward.

Offered management role in Coober Pedy, operating an Oodnadatta clinic. Moved to Ballarat for 4 years then Royal Melbourne Hospital as managing director of vaccination hub. Administering 2,500 vaccines a day.

From RMH moved to Numurkah after good reports.

Fizz Mayberry spoke to the club about his involvement with KidsFix Rally.

In 1998 participated in a Camp Quality Rally with a 1962 Pontiac wagon. Present Commodore last nine years. All donations go to the cause, with members of rally paying own expenses as well as car expenses. Originally Camp Quality had 5 on staff with 2 paid employees. After 15 rallies it had grown to 132 paid staff. Decided to do their own thing, starting a foundation dedicated to support sick and disadvantaged kids. First rally in 2013, from 2014 to 2020 raised over $750,000, with Board receiving requests for projects each year, with five selected.

Rally provides an instruction "Bible" with directions but no maps.

Last 2 years still fundraising as committed to projects, although no rally was able to be held.

Numurkah hospital has been the recipient with a children's playground and portable ultrasound equipment.

Other recipients have been Broken Hill Hospital, Gympie Hospital, Dental Outreach, Western Area Hospital NSW, Shoalhaven Hospital, Milton Ulladulla Hospital, Latrobe Regional Hospital, Dubbo Base Hospital, Bendigo Health.

Make many life-long friends, with participation the reward.

GUEST SPEAKER: Numurkah Ukulele Club.

KATE: Established 3 years ago bringing people together with a common interest. Group has 25 members and supports community with performances.

CHRIS: Good for health and wellbeing, relaxes, improves breathing and circulation.

ANNE: 57 performances in 2019, with COVID only 3 via Zoom in 2020. Have performed in Numurkah, Cobram, Nathalia, Strathmerton and Shepparton, mainly at aged care facilities.

The club entertained members with a medley of numbers.

• Aim: To collect, store and/or display and use for research.
• Society is a Public Records of Victoria Place of Deposits.
• Record interviews with older members of the community provide insight into our past.
• Window into History collate artefacts to share our history.
• Share specific research information with public.

In lieu of a regular meeting Rotary Club members provided the BBQ at the Numurkah Australia Day Celebrations.

Photos courtesy Mark McNamara.

Traditional first meeting of the year combined with Lions Club at Numurkah Bowls Club.

Lions Club president Keith Nicholl welcomed members, wishing all a happy new year.

A delicious meal was served by the Lions Club, in a relaxed evening of fellowship.

• President: Gary Phillips
• Secretary: Jennifer Rodger
• Treasurer: Jeff Buzza.

As guest speaker Geoff Holmes conducted an entertaining quiz from recent articles featured in the Numurkah Leader. 

Winners received prizes from Geoff's vegetable garden.

• District Conference current plan is Wangaratta March 18-20. Options include a May date or Conference with District Handover if unable to proceed.
• Baton Relay to celebrate 100 years of Rotary in Australia and New Zealand. If unable to proceed will pass on to AG to reach each club.
• District project to celebrate 100 years of Rotary is an immunisation campaign in the Pacific Region.
• Membership levels discussed with reasons for decline from 44 to 35, mental health, expecting too much, not educating members, business commitments, death and age. Bruce commented harder to keep everyone engaged and active in larger clubs.
• District to revamp programs such as RLI with introduction of a Basic Introduction to Rotary, which would be less confronting to new members, with RLI for more experienced members.
• Review of club; good emphasis on youth, community, website. Club in good shape,
• Constitution and By-Laws are comprehensive, keep up to date.
• Role of District is to help clubs to do what they do best.

At two months, son Ned tested positive to Down Syndrome. A scary time, but further tests showed no issues with heart.

Ned brought an enormous amount of joy to the family.

In 2014 decided to organise a bike ride to create awareness on World Down Syndrome Day 2st March.

Many offers of help from friends keen to ride, with a parents support car.

With 3 weeks notice organised ride from Cobram to Mulwala, Yarrawonga, Chiltern, Wangaratta, Benalla, Shepparton, Numurkah Cobram. BBQ at finish to celebrate. Encouraged to make it an annual event. Now riding the route in reverse in order to avoid strong head winds. Raised over $17,000 for Cobram Special School and Down Syndrome.

Established a Facebook page 321 Ride for Down Syndrome.

On a personal note after 23 years in munitions manufacture became Business Services Manager for PALS, supporting others with needs.

CLUB CHANGEOVER MEETING 29th JUNE 2020