As we turn the page to a new year, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable spirit of our club with immense gratitude and optimism. We concluded 2025 not just with plans, but with a powerful surge of positive energy that sets a vibrant tone for all that lies ahead.
Our final meeting of the year perfectly encapsulated this momentum. It was a profound pleasure to officially welcome Denise Massoud and Andrew Munroe into our membership. Both bring a wealth of experience and heart for service, having each served our community as Mayor of Whitehorse. Their commitment to leadership will undoubtedly enrich our collective efforts.
We also celebrated the stepping forward of Malcolm Chiverton as our President-Elect. His dedication and vision assure a strong and continuous leadership path for our club. The meeting was further brightened by Mark Balla’s inspiring update on our paid up Global Grant in India, a testament to the tangible, life-changing impact we can have when we unite our resources and passion.
Further elevating our year-end pride, a compassionate project initiative by Stephen Mather was recognized in the Rotary Down Under national magazine. It showcased the delivery of essential nutrition to expectant mothers in Bangladesh—a wonderful example of our Rotary values in action, transforming lives through direct partnership and care.
The year then gently wound down with our peaceful and well-connected Christmas Gathering, a cherished time of fellowship that reminded us of the strong bonds at the heart of all we do.
Be encouraged by the funded transformer, facilitating safe water for thousands, through a Rotary collaboration.
As we look to 2026, there is so much to anticipate. The year will launch on January 14 with an exciting firsthand account from Tony and Robyn Stokes, who recently undertook a team Field Monitoring Visit in partnership with International Needs Australia (INA). Their insights will be invaluable as we, together with INA, embark on jointly funding the critical E-WASH project. This partnership marks a significant step forward in our international service, and we eagerly await their sharing.
Thanks to Stephen Fisher with Tony, Tim and Julie who did some Rotary Recycle Op-Shop reorganising over the break.
The foundation we’ve built is strong, and the path ahead is bright with purpose. Thank you for your unwavering commitment. Let’s step into 2026 with the same collaboration, enthusiasm, and compassion that so beautifully closed our last chapter.
Many thanks to our members and friends who helped share the joy through Christmas Gift Wrapping at Forest Hill Chase with proceeds to Operation Cleft. Well done team!
December 17, 2025– In a beautiful departure from the usual holiday frenzy, the Rotary Club of Box Hill Central gathered for a Christmas Party centered on peace, connection, and quiet fellowship. The event, held on December 17, offered members and guests a cherished respite to reflect, reconnect, and warmly usher in the new year together.
The ambiance was intentionally serene. Beautiful summer weather allowed for comfortable conversation in both indoor and outdoor seating areas, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere perfect for meaningful connection.
The potluck-style feast became a talking point in itself, with members exchanging recipes and compliments. From traditional holiday favourites to inventive new creations, the shared table symbolised the diverse talents and generous spirit within the club, turning a simple meal into a celebration of community.
As we carry the warmth and goodwill from this gathering forward, the Rotary Club of Box Hill Central extends its best wishes to all members, their families, and our community for a joyful festive season. We look forward to a new year of fellowship, service, and shared purpose in 2026.
“Expectant mothers struggling with malnutrition in Bangladesh received a welcome surprise last year, when Australian Rotarians collaborated with a local non-profit to deliver much needed food parcels to help nourish both mothers and their babies.”
Check out the national article from RDU-ONE Jan/Feb 2026 edition for more about our club's project a 24/25 Rotary D9185 District Grant led by Stephen Mather.
Join us Wednesday January 28 at 10:00-11:00am This is our monthly service project in place of our morning meeting. Please join Robyn and the team, as we Address Classroom Hunger by funding, preparing and delivering free cheese sandwiches to requesting local primary school for kids without lunch. Text Robyn 0406607310 to confirm. You'll find us near Colonial Fruits, near food court, Forest Hill Chase.
Many thanks to Rotary Clubs of Bendigo South, Chelsea, Manningham City and Warrandyte Donvale with Box Hill Central who have each contributed $2,500 (totalling $12,500) to help fund the installation of an electric transformer to support Shurmo Borehole Water System, benefitting a total of 17,788 people with access to a safe, clean, affordable and sustainable water supply. Certainly, good news for Christmas!
The Rotary Club of Box Hill Central is thrilled to formally announce Malcolm Chiverton as our President Elect for the 2025/26 Rotary year!
Malcolm, thank you for stepping up to lead our club once again. Your unwavering commitment to service, proven leadership, and passion for Rotary’s mission make you the perfect choice to guide us in the year ahead. We are immensely grateful for your continued dedication and eagerly look forward to the vision and energy you will bring to our club.
🎉 Bookings are OPEN for the annual IWD Breakfast! Hosted by Rotary & Rotaract Clubs in Whitehorse. 📌 4 Mar 2026 | 7:15am | Box Hill Town Hall 🔗 Book a single ticket or a full table here
January in Rotary is Vocational Service Month
Celebrating Emily's two year employment at Women's Health East through a RCBHC referral to Community Employment Partnership, and her contract going forward!
Learn how Pat highlighted Rotary's assistance at the Inclusion International Dubai Conference in finding job connections for people with intellectual disability.
