On 1st of June a group of Filipino Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Angeles Kuliat visited Geelong, where President Don showed them around Geelong, including two playgrounds they will be receiving in the next shipment (in situ prior to their extraction). Then followed a trip down the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles. That evening we had a wonderful & informal dinner at Taste of Philippines Restaurant & Takeaway, which was also attended by Rotarians from Bellarine North & Highton Rotary Clubs, in addition to several of our own members.
On Thursday the 18th of May, President Don Shields had the honour & privilege of representing the Rotary Club of Geelong Central at the 30th anniversary celebration of the Probus Club of Geelong Central, which our club sponsored in 1993.
Probus started in 1965 in the UK and came to Australia in 1976. There are 300,000 Probus members in 4,000 clubs in 63 countries. Probus Clubs must be sponsored by a Rotary Club. They meet monthly for fun & fellowship. To find more about Probus, go here!

The May Makers and Growers Market was lucky enough to have Kardinia International College's Square 1 band as live entertainment!
We thank Square 1 for the amazing tunes and fantastic entertainment!
The Rotary club of Geelong central was honored to present a wreath at the dawn service for Anzac Day on the Geelong Waterfront.

Thanks to the fabulous band from Kardinia International College who braved the inclement weather to play at our market. They draw a big crowd and really assist in the success of our market. Teachers are real champs showing strong leadership and motivation

The second in our series of Environment Small Acts to help our environment was a visit to Councils composting site in Anakie. Really interesting and pleasing to see such positive actions by CoGG. Keep an eye out for the third event - a visit to Sparrovale Wetlands in June
.

Ever wondered what you as an individual can do to help future proof our environment?
Our series of workshops will give insights into what others are doing and provide small tips for families and individuals. You will meet others who are also seeking to do their small acts to create a safer future.
All activities only $5pp. Numbers are limited.
- 17th June. Tour of Sparrovale Wetlands
- 11 August. Make & Eat Meatless Meals
- 27 Sept. "You can't ask That!" Pub chat.
All venue addresses and other requirements will come via the Trybooking email.
A complimentary bus from Geeong CBD is offered for the Composting & Wetlands tours for those not wishing to drive.
Sunday’s Rotary Waterfront Makers & Growers’ Market was a huge success – bringing out a crowd of 10,000.
In recent months the market has witnessed an increased variety of products.
The next market on the Geelong waterfront will be on Sunday, May 7 from 9am to 2pm.
Leopold Primary student, Tilly Thom, has developed a side business with Aura Jewels. Tilly was one of 120 stall holders at the April 2nd Market. Well Done, Tilly!

Written by Bob Barry (Beckley Park Committee)
On the 25th of March, we completed our Queens Jubilee Tree Project with the unveiling of the plaque at the Beckley Park Market. Chairman Richard represented the committee and spoke highly of all those involved in the project. Cr Kylie Grzybek kindly unveiled the plaque and praised the work we are undertaking at Beckley Park and the interaction we are having with the community. Kylie is a great supporter of Beckley Park and we are extremely grateful for her ongoing support.
This was a simple but enjoyable ceremony that was attended by representatives from the Rotary Clubs that supported the project, Chris and Bernie from the Harness Club who help us care for the trees, and members of the BPCoM.
Our thanks must go to Chairman Richard Oakley, Max Findlay and Gary Beckley in their efforts to have this project completed.
I will now follow up with the Planting of Trees for the Queen's Jubilee Team from the Dept of Industry, Science and Resources to submit our final report on the unveiling of the plaque and to finalise the terms of our agreement regarding the project.

Kudos to Gary, who source approximately 300 pairs of glasses, which were donated by Lifeline Op Shop Grovedale. Gary sorted, cleaned & repaired the glasses which were donated to the End Trachoma Project. Helen also sourced 50 from Volunteering Geelong members.
Jane also donated two toiletry kits for those in need and some stamps.
Thanks Gary, Helen & Jane for your support of this project!
Part 1 of our fun enviroment workshops series was the building of native bee hotels. You can see the smiles of happy builders below. Thanks to our venue hosts, Barwon Timber. Our next activity is the tour of the CoGG composting site at Anakie on 15 April.

At the District Conference on the last weekend in March 2023 Rotarians from the 55 clubs will view photos of special trees. These trees are special to the club members for a number of reasons. Come to the House of Friendship and vote in the People's Choice. And see what fabulouse trees we have in our District!