Gloucester Rotary Club NSW

22/07/2026

Last night, Gloucester Rotary had the privilege of hearing from Richie Goddard. His presentation was brief, but his message and his journey left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.

Richie is a passionate Rotarian of the Sawtell Rotary, mentor, swim coach, President of the Mid North Coast Disabled Surfers Association and a tireless advocate for young people with disability. Through his mentoring program, he is helping young people discover their strengths, build confidence, find meaningful careers and become active members of their communities.

What many may not know is that Richie is a RYLArian who, in 2013, served as Rotary Community Leader for District 9660, Zone 4. His Rotary journey is a shining example of the profound and lasting impact that the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) can have on a young person’s life.

RYLA doesn’t simply create better leaders for a weekend. It inspires confidence, ignites purpose, builds lifelong friendships and plants the seeds of service that continue to grow for years to come. Richie’s life is living proof of that.

Today, he continues to give back with humility, passion and unwavering dedication. His commitment to creating a more inclusive community and empowering others reflects the very values that Rotary seeks to nurture through RYLA.

Thank you, Richie, for sharing your story and reminding us why investing in our young leaders matters. The ripple effect of one RYLA experience can extend far beyond the individual, touching families, communities and countless lives along the way.

RYLA isn’t just about developing leaders. It’s about shaping people who go on to change the world around them. Richie Goddard is one of those people, and we couldn’t be prouder to call him part of the Rotary family. 💙🌟

15/07/2026

There’s something special about supporting the businesses that support our community.

Last Tuesday, Gloucester Rotary enjoyed an offsite meeting at H&J Sports on Church Street, where Paul welcomed members and shared the story behind the business, the products and services it offers, and the important role local businesses play in strengthening our community.

Every dollar spent locally has a ripple effect. It helps local businesses grow, creates local jobs, and enables businesses like H&J Sports to give back through sponsorships, fundraising and support for our sporting clubs, schools and community groups. When we support local, we invest in Gloucester’s future.

A heartfelt thank you to Paul for taking the time to host our members and for his ongoing commitment to our community.

The evening concluded back at Gloucester Bowling Club, where members enjoyed dinner, great conversation and the fellowship that makes Rotary so special.

Together, let’s continue supporting the businesses that support Gloucester. Strong local businesses build a stronger local community. 💙💛

05/07/2026

30/06/2026

A Busy Week of Changeovers

Having served as President for exactly one week — and already discovering that “one week” in Rotary years apparently means three changeovers, two cities, and zero free evenings — I’ve had the pleasure of attending two club changeovers: RC of Taree on Manning (the night after Gloucester, because apparently sleep is optional this time of year) and RC of Lower Midcoast tonight, plus the District Changeover at Tamworth last Saturday night. At this rate I should just start keeping a toothbrush in the car.

It’s been wonderful meeting the incoming presidents — Monika from RC of Taree on Manning, Brad from RC of Lower Midcoast, and Anna, incoming president of RC of Taree — along with District Governor Di Hall, as the new Rotary year gets underway. A lot of fresh faces, a lot of fresh enthusiasm, and a lot of us secretly wondering what we’ve signed up for.

I also want to say a huge thank you to Gloucester’s Club Service Director Taylah Eyre-Hughes for stepping up to run our our own club meeting tonight. Unfortunately for you, Taylah, this is just the beginning — consider it a taste of things to come.

“Only 51 weeks left. I hear the Presidential positions come with a complimentary nap schedule — still waiting on mine.”

24/06/2026

What a year it’s been! 🌟 From service projects and community impact to friendship, fun and fellowship, Rotary 2025/26 has been a year to remember. Thank you to everyone who helped make a difference along the way. Enjoy this look back at an incredible year! 🎥💙💛

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24/06/2026

One president out, one president in, a Rotary chain passed on, great music, good food, plenty of friendship, and just like that, another Gloucester Rotary year is underway!

Last night, President Ernie Abeysekera officially handed the reins over to incoming President Jo Fitzpatrick in a wonderful evening shared with Rotarians, family, friends, and guests.

Ernie reflected on a busy year of fundraising, community projects, and welcoming two new members into the Rotary family. True to form, Ernie didn’t make a big fuss about it, but there’s no doubt a lot was achieved under his watch.

Keeping the evening running smoothly was the ever-fabulous Mo Hjorth, while Brian Beesley added a special touch with music as both presidents took to the stage.

Then it was Jo’s turn. Armed with a new board, a new team, and perhaps a strong cup of coffee for the year ahead, she officially stepped into the president’s role and accepted the Rotary chain.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate the occasion. It was wonderful to share the evening with so many familiar faces and supporters of Rotary. Nights like these remind us that while service is at the heart of what we do, friendship and community are what make it all worthwhile.

Thank you, Ernie, for your year of leadership, dedication, and service. And congratulations, Jo, as you begin your presidential journey. We look forward to working alongside you in the year ahead, continuing to serve our community, creating new memories, and having a little fun along the way.

23/06/2026

At our rotary meeting on 16th June 2026, we were fortunate to have Anita Robinson, the Eastern Regional Chair of ROMAC ( Rotary Oceania Medical aid for Children) speak on the work in Australia being carried out by Rotarians and doctors to change children’s lives.

ROMAC is a project of Rotary Districts in Australia and New Zealand. Initiated by an Australian Rotarian from Kangaroo Flat in 1987.
The purpose of ROMAC is to facilitate medical aid for children from Oceania, in the form of life saving and/or dignity restoring surgery, not accessible to them in their home countries.

Anita highlighted many of the cases which have been helped, bringing tears to many eyes.

Thank you ROMAC

22/05/2026

Last Tuesday night, the Rotary Club of Gloucester had the absolute privilege of recognising four remarkable young men for their incredible support of Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign. While Phineas was unfortunately unable to attend the evening, Brodie, Troy and Dillon were proudly presented with a very special honour — the Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

Together, these local Gloucester High School students showed extraordinary courage, community spirit and compassion by willingly shaving their heads to raise awareness and funds to help eradicate polio worldwide.

And what an effort it was…

An incredible $5,000 was raised to support Rotary’s global fight to end polio forever.

These young men stepped outside their comfort zones and used their actions to make a genuine difference to children and families they will likely never meet. That is truly Service Above Self in action.

In recognition of their outstanding contribution to humanitarian service, Gloucester Rotary proudly awarded each of the boys a Paul Harris Fellow recognition — one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow.

We were also deeply honoured to welcome District Governor Evan Burrell, who made the special trip to Gloucester after hearing about the boys’ tremendous efforts and the incredible support shown by our local community. His presence made the evening even more meaningful and highlighted just how inspiring these young men and our community spirit truly are.

Named after Rotary founder Paul Harris, this recognition celebrates those whose actions reflect goodwill, compassion and a commitment to creating positive change in the world.

The future is certainly in very good hands with young leaders like these boys.

Congratulations Brodie, Troy, Dillon and Phineas. Gloucester Rotary is incredibly proud of you all. 💙

19/05/2026

Today Gloucester has lost one of its true legends. 🌺

Claire was a beautiful soul, genuine, talented, generous, witty, and always willing to give her time to help others. Her incredible gift for bush poetry brought joy to so many, and her support of our community and Rotary fundraising efforts over more than 20 years will never be forgotten.

From the very beginning of “Bush Poetry in the Saleyards,” Claire gave so much of herself with grace, humour, and professionalism. She had a remarkable way of making people smile, laugh, and feel welcome, all while sharing her extraordinary talent and heart with everyone around her.

Gloucester Rotary is deeply saddened by Claire’s passing and forever grateful for her unwavering dedication to community service. Her kindness, generosity, and support touched so many lives, and her contribution to our community will always be remembered and treasured.

Claire was truly one of a kind, so clever, so giving, and so deeply loved by many. Her wit, poise, kindness, and community spirit leave behind a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest love are with Col and the entire family during this heartbreaking time.

Rest peacefully, Claire. A life beautifully lived, a heart so generously shared, and a legacy that will forever remain in the hearts of Gloucester and all those fortunate enough to know you. ❤️

09/05/2026

✨ Glitz, Glamour & Celebration await! ✨

The Rotary Club of Gloucester warmly invites you to our 2026 Changeover Dinner 🥂

Join us for a sparkling evening filled with laughter, friendship, community spirit, and celebration as we reflect on a fantastic Rotary year and welcome an exciting new chapter ahead.

This year’s theme is Glitz & Glamour, so it’s time to dress up, shine bright, and enjoy a fabulous night out with great people and wonderful company ✨

Together, we’ll celebrate the incredible contribution of outgoing President Ernie Abeysekera and officially welcome incoming President Jo Fitzpatrick and the 2026 to 2027 Rotary team.

From community impact to fellowship and fresh new ideas, this is a night to celebrate everything that makes Rotary and Gloucester so special.

Whether you’re a Rotarian, supporter, friend, or community member, we’d love for you to join us for this unforgettable evening.

So gather your glam, bring your sparkle, and come celebrate with us as we turn the Rotary wheel into another amazing year ✨🥂

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