The Rotary Club of Cowra continues to make strides in community service and engagement.
The club meets every Thursday at 6pm for a 6.30pm start at the Cowra Bowling Club and members are reminded to advise Treasurer Bryan Dawes of any meeting absences or guest attendance by midday Thursday.
President-elect for the 2026-27 term is Alicia Ball, who continues to play a major role in youth and membership initiatives.
Acting President Ian Docker led the most recent meeting, extending thanks to Ray, Kit, Tom and Kylie for their efforts at the Seikei BBQ, which proved a successful community engagement.
The upcoming Partners’ Night on 16 October will feature guest speaker Libby Bleakley and members from the Blackheath Club and Inner Wheel, promising an evening of fellowship and insight.
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Community Service Director Brian Marsh reported another busy period, with a new load of cans set to be delivered to Orange next week as part of the club’s ongoing recycling initiative.
He also called for volunteers for the Cowra Show BBQ on 18 October, an annual event that raises vital funds while connecting Rotary with the wider community.
Bookshop Coordinator Bob Langhorne noted strong customer feedback for the new Rotary Bookshop, which continues to flourish.
September sales totalled $2,901.40, with a cumulative total of nearly $5,000 since opening.
With school holidays bringing extra visitors, Bob thanked volunteers for their efforts and invited more members, or even “Friends of Rotary”, to help maintain shop hours and community engagement.
A light-hearted fine session run by Tom and Wendy added plenty of fun to the evening, reflecting the club’s lively social spirit.
Graham Parker updated members on the upcoming public walkthrough of Cowra’s new hospital on 29 November.
On behalf of the club, he has submitted an expression of interest for surplus hospital furniture and equipment, with plans to repurpose these materials for international aid projects in Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu or other communities in need.
Meanwhile, Bill Murphy’s “Member Behind the Badge” presentation offered a personal and inspiring look into his life.
Born in Cowra, Bill shared his experience of overcoming childhood health challenges caused by rheumatic fever, his education and early career in Sydney and his eventual return to Cowra in the mid-1970s to establish his own accounting business.
President Kylie Docker opened her report with a note of gratitude, thanking Bill Murphy for his moving presentation.
She reminded members that John Askew, Service Project and Team Lead for District 9705, would be this week’s guest speaker, while next Thursday’s Partners’ Night featuring Libby Bleakley will no doubt be a highlight on the Rotary calendar.
Looking ahead, Kylie encouraged members to volunteer for the Cowra Show BBQ on 18 October.
