Another busy week for our club, with good progress on our youth programs and plenty of community and fundraising activities keeping members busy. Thank you to everyone contributing their time and effort.
Reminders and Updates
National Youth Science Forum: Financial assistance has been finalised for 14 local students attending NYSF in January, through the combined efforts of the five Bendigo Rotary clubs. Special thanks to Lynne Cooper and everyone involved.
Prep Packs for Kids: It was lovely to receive an email and photo from Lightning Reef Primary School thanking the Rotary Club of Eaglehawk for the Prep Packs. It's always encouraging to see our efforts appreciated and making a difference.
Bendigo Swap Meet: We will be assisting with car parking at Lightning Reef this Saturday, 14 November. John Jones has circulated the updated roster. Thanks to everyone helping, particularly those making the early start!
Christmas Raffle: Another busy week with the raffle trailer, including Leisure Fest this Friday and Saturday. Thank you to everyone assisting with ticket sales and looking after the trailer.
Great Victorian Bike Ride: Our breakfast catering at the Bendigo Showgrounds is coming up on Monday 23 November. Thanks to Ron for his work in organising this activity.
Working With Children Checks: Members who haven't already done so are reminded to provide John Jones with their current WWCC number and expiry date so our club records can be updated.
Board Meeting: Wednesday 18 November.
Club AGM: Wednesday 25 November.
Bookshop Roster: Please check your roster and arrange a replacement if you're unable to attend.
A brilliant program right here in Bendigo. Filling a void for many of the youth of the area with their annual productions and invaluable life skills that are being learnt along the way. It was an absolute pleasure to listen to Julie Lovell and her passion for the performance based outlet being provided for the youth.
A couple of our members have already come up with the idea that a group booking for their ‘Frozen’ production in mid 2027 would be a great club social night.
The distribution of educational ‘Prep Packs’ into the local primary schools for the 2026 preps was completed this week. Special mention to Carmel, Eric and Mick for helping out with the deliveries.
This annual program is just one way we demonstrate our club's commitment to student education. The packs are designed to complement educational resources provided within the schools by giving the Prep students items that they take home to continue their learning journey. The kids are always so excited to receive the gifts, and many parents have reported back to us just how much they have appreciated the additional items.
Lightning Reef Primary School sent us this after the delivery -
and a couple more pics of the school deliveries can be found here -
Editor's Note - This article didn't publish correctly last week, so here it is again - with a photo included!
The RC of Eaglehawk have a new married couple. On 31.10.2026 Ally and Ben became Mr & Mrs Ben Hill at a lovely garden wedding in front of family and friends, some of whom travelled from overseas. They were entertained by fireworks, Lion dancers and a number of other traditional international customs. The entertainment included Ally & Ben singing a duet in Ally's native language. Family and friends danced and sang well into the night.
Congratulations and best wishes on your wedding, enjoy your time away and we look forward to your company upon your return.
Book Shop Bonanza - extended trading hours have been planned for Friday, 27th November. For the book enthusiasts, we will be supporting the local Eaglehawk Christmas Shopping Night and opening from 5pm until 8pm. Come join us at our club's Book Shop - 30 High Street, Eaglehawk and spread a little festive fun - it's always a great night in the Borough!
NYSF is basically finalised, with Jan Walklate issuing our combined Rotary club funds to the students/parents. I have yet to organise a coffee morning for the students in December at Peppergreen Farm.
BSSC have invited me to their Awards Night at Ulumbarra on December 16, at which many of our NYSF students receive awards.
Alumni committee. We meet every 3 weeks by zoom and I will be attending the COGB Youth Awards night on 20/11 with 5 other Rotarians representing most of our clubs.
The Science Experience: no success at all to attract any ESC students to attend - both John and I are disappointed... Teacher Claire Evans is also very sorry there was no response from any Year 10 student.
Back Packs 4 Vic Kids: some welcome donations recently from our members. Much appreciated by Dot and her team.
RYLA and TAFE - still a work in progress, but time is running out. Closing date is 22/11.
Eaglehawk's Citizen & Young Citizen of the Year nomination forms are now available. Simply go to our club's website, hover over ‘Citizen of the Year’ on the menu bar and you will see the option of either the Citizen of the Year or Young Citizen of the Year nomination forms in the drop down menu. Simply download, complete and submit it - easy as that.
We all know people in the community that we have long admired for the work they do and for the efforts they put in. It's important for our community that we recognise and thank those who support and ensure our community thrives - so here is your opportunity.
One of regional Australia's most popular events – the Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show - is back for its 38th year over the weekend of 28 & 29 November 2026.
And it’s not just for trucking enthusiasts. The Truck Show is a fun and affordable day out for families. Kids are admitted free, and there is no charge for the rides and entertainment, including live music on stage. Food and beverages can be purchased on site whilst browsing trade stalls and admiring an incredible lineup of trucks from Australia wide at the Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve.
