Rotary seeks input

Margaret River Rotarians are asking residents and community groups to help them plan for the future.

A public gathering on Tuesday, May 4, at Stay Margaret River will involve senior Rotarians leading a discussion about how the organisation can help fund and support projects of vital importance to the region.

The forum is part of national Rotary’s 100th birthday celebrations.

Member and past district governor Charles Johnson said Rotary noted an important shift was coming up in how the organisation contributed to the community.

Rather than a talk outlining the group’s past work, Rotarians are keen to learn what gaps and options for tangible support are needed now and into the future.

“Rotary has a pretty proud history of what we’ve achieved nationally and locally,” Mr Johnson said.

“We’re going to talk about the future and what we can support in the community. Times are changing and Rotary has to change too.”

While the Margaret River branch has supported many projects , including maintaining Rotary Park, developing its new Men’s Shed and international volunteer work for local high school students in Timor, the new direction would likely focus on the “circular economy” and supporting environmental initiatives.

The post-COVID-19 world of closed borders and global disruption meant a focus on local programs was more important than ever, the club said.

President Brian Middleton said Rotary was keen to harness the energy of new members.

“Across the world, Rotary’s numbers are growing but we are very aware that we need to attract new members of all ages to remain relevant and vibrant,” he said.

Forum bookings are essential and can be made via email to charlesjohnson@amnet.net.au.