Mount Waverley Rotary Club | Changeover Night – 25 June 2025
Theme: Reflection, Gratitude, and New Beginnings
Reflections from Outgoing President Jim Callan
As I reflect on my year as President of the Mount Waverley Rotary Club, I’ll admit there was some initial apprehension. But what followed was an incredible journey—one filled with challenges, growth, laughter, and purpose. It’s been a year of learning, connection, and reward. I would genuinely encourage every member to consider stepping into this role in the future.
One of the greatest privileges of this past year has been working alongside passionate, committed people—members who continually give their time, energy, and sometimes even personal funds, all to uplift our community both here and abroad. We often say Rotary doesn’t have problems, only challenges, and that mindset—embraced so deeply by our members—has been key to overcoming the complexities of today’s world.
But amidst the tough bits, there’s always joy. The camaraderie of weekly meetings, the mateship at sausage sizzles, the energy at trivia nights—all of it reminds us that our club’s true strength lies in its people. Let’s keep nurturing that spirit.
2024–25 Highlights
✨ Youth Programs
Led by Nicole, with tremendous support from Terry, Geoff and Philip, our youth engagement was a standout again this year:
> Sponsored two RYLA participants
> Supported students attending MUNA
> Backed the Mount Waverley Eisteddfod
> Ran both primary school speech and writing competitions
Thanks to all who helped—from cooking sausages to driving students. These programs succeed because of you.
✨ Speaker Program
Our weekly meetings stayed informative and fresh thanks to Ros. Her absence earlier this year made us realise just how much she does behind the scenes. Members—if you know someone inspiring, or have a story to tell—step up! Every one of us has a tale worth sharing.
✨ Membership Milestones
We welcomed Judith, Ansu, Ashwin, and most recently, Christine. Keels also returned—great to have you back. We farewelled Zachary as he moved to Whittlesea, and we honoured the memory of Rod Moon and Ron Thorpe—both beloved members.
Special thanks to Rhonda, our Membership Secretary, for her warmth and tireless work in making new members feel instantly at home.
✨ Community Service
Loretta led the charge in community outreach, supporting:
> Monash Children’s Hospital
> MWCIS
> Watch Disability Services
> And many more local causes
Although the Shelterbag Project paused this year, we’re hopeful it’ll resume soon.
✨ Fundraising & Market Success
Our fundraising efforts stayed strong, with:
> Ongoing growth at the Mount Waverley Market
> Several Bunnings BBQs
> A buzzing Trivia Night
> Steady returns from Oakleigh Market
Huge thanks to Uma, Steve, and Ann for helping elevate our market—it’s now one of the most popular in the region, with traders on waitlists!
✨ International Impact
Led by Beth, Rhonda, and Loretta, our international work stretched far and wide:
> Cambodia, Uganda, Vietnam
> Wheelchairs for Kids in Perth
> Sponsorship of a Cambodian student attending university through Rotaract
Special mention to Geoff Taylor for coordinating our most successful year at DIK:
740 boxes of books, 120 chairs, 55 desks—incredible support for students overseas.
✨ Social & Fellowship Events
From Rhonda’s beautiful high tea to relaxed dinners and casual catch-ups, this year showed how important it is to simply enjoy one another’s company. Let’s keep these quarterly—cafes, BBQs, parks—bring your ideas!
✨ Rosters & Volunteer Contributions
Heading into 2025/26, I’ll continue to manage our rosters. We average ~50 events requiring around 290 volunteer shifts. With 35 members, that’s about 8 shifts each.
Let’s keep it manageable and enjoyable—many hands make light work, and truthfully, most of our events are pretty fun!
A Heartfelt Thank You
To Geoff, Terry, Lyn, Rhonda, and incoming President Loretta—your unwavering support made my role not just easier, but truly enjoyable. Thank you for the trust, the laughs, and the shared sense of purpose.
A Message from Incoming President Loretta Crew
Thank you, Jim. You’ve led with humour, kindness, and a steady hand—and your impact is clear to see. I feel privileged to follow in your footsteps.
This coming year, I hope to build on our strong foundation—continuing our core service areas, welcoming fresh ideas, and growing our club. Rotary is global, yet it always feels personal—and that’s what I love most.
We’re refining a long-term strategy, and I invite every member to get involved—your voice matters. A big thank you to Amanda for leading the refresh of our website—it’s more important than ever to have a strong digital presence.
To our newest members: say yes to opportunities. Join a committee, volunteer for a project, lead a conversation. This is where the Rotary spirit shines.
And remember:
We’re all volunteers. Let’s lead with kindness, keep our sense of fun, and continue to make a real difference.
2025–26 Leadership Team
Board:
> Past President / Vice President: Jim Callan
> Secretary: Terry Roche
> Treasurer: Lyn Walker
> Board Members: Geoff Charles, Uma Weerakkody
Chairs of Service:
> Youth: Nicole Osner
> Community/Environment: TBD
> Foundation: Graham Bennett
> International: Beth Merkus
> Membership: Rhonda McKenzie
> Media & Communications: Amanda Martin
> Market Coordinator: Uma Weerakkody
> Program: Ros Clowes
> Welfare: Robyn Morrow
> Bulletin: Glen Watkins
> Sergeant: Roger Mould
Special thanks to Roger—your wit and humour bring life to our meetings. Many clubs have retired the Sergeant’s role—but we couldn’t imagine ours without you!
Here’s to Another Great Year Ahead
Together, we’ve had a year of remarkable impact—rooted in connection, driven by service, and uplifted by laughter. As we welcome the 2025/26 Rotary year, let’s keep the momentum strong, our ideas bold, and our hearts open.
Together, we make a difference.
— Loretta Crew,
President 2025–26, Mount Waverley Rotary Club