Cobram Rotary Club is a volunteer organisation made up of like-minded members who enjoy being part of a group that gives back to its community in some meaningful way.
Many community, not-for-profit organisations struggle to attract volunteers to support the work they do, and it was one of the reasons our club organised a community expo a few weeks ago. With over 60 stalls displaying information about services, employment opportunities, courses, health checks and art and craft, it was an overwhelming success.
We have been overwhelmed by the positive feedback, particularly from many of our stallholders, who successfully raised their profiles and received a lot of interest in joining their groups or participating in upcoming events, courses and ‘come and try it days’.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service is one example of a group that attracted new volunteer drivers as it expands its footprint in the region. Some of our local sporting groups also welcomed new members, including the Cobram Croquet Club and Strathmerton Golf Club.
The vast array of children’s activities, including the popular face painting, was a drawcard, along with a free sausage and coffee. We were entertained by young musicians from Freeza, rock ’n’ roll dancers, our local pipe band led by our local Rotarian Bill Tom, and some newer members of our community from the Solomon Islands, who added something special with their singing. Displays from the SES and CFA were a highlight along with first aid demonstrations, and the Canoe Club with its rowing machine.
Many residents were amazed at what our community has to offer, and the networking between groups proved to be invaluable.
We wish to acknowledge the support from Moira Shire Council and the support from all those groups who came along to be part of this event. Without their participation it would not have been the success it was.
At Rotary we believe that volunteering brings great rewards. We feel part of the community, and this brings a great sense of satisfaction and joy. We get to share our skills, work as a team and learn from others, and this makes our club much more effective and vibrant.
Research has found that meeting new people, having a broader social network and getting involved increases confidence and wellbeing.
Our club supports the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and we would love to welcome community members from all walks of life, experiences and culture.
We are a diverse group and come from many different backgrounds. What we have in common is a passion for having fun, working together to support our community, and providing opportunities to grow and learn.
Our next major event for the year is hosting the Cobram Swap Meet and Shannon’s Show ’n’ Shine. This year will be our 15th event and profits are returned to our local community where we support a range of projects, with a particular passion for supporting our local youth.
Each year Cobram Rotary is proud to support young people with sponsorship to attend science and leadership conferences. We also support local schools with their end-of-year awards, recognising those students who have excelled academically and also those who have shown to have great integrity and contributed to school community more broadly. We host an annual Australia Day event and support the Anzac Day commemorations at the Cobram Civic Centre.
When you join Rotary, you join a group of people who enjoy great friendship and loyalty. We look forward to welcoming new members at any time. Should you have any questions or wish to attend one of our upcoming meetings please contact James Cornish on 0418 101 930 or Kate Jamieson 0421 918 454, or email cobramrotary@gmail.com
— Cobram Rotary Club
17°C