The Rotary Club of Seymour’s recent changeover luncheon was well attended by local members.
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A remarkably productive year for the Rotary Club of Seymour was celebrated at the club’s recent changeover luncheon.
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On Sunday, June 28, Rotarians and guests gathered at the Seymour Bowls Club for an afternoon marked by good food, warm fellowship and a shared recognition of the club’s achievements across local, national and intentional spheres.
Close to 60 attendees were welcomed by outgoing president Ruth Byers, who presided over the luncheon, and emcee Kathy Mills, who guided the afternoon’s proceedings.
In delivering the toast to Rotary International, Rotarian Catriona Jarman spoke about the organisation’s global reach, with more than 45,000 clubs and 1.2 million members across the world.
She also talked about Rotary’s enduring commitment to peace, health, education and environmental stewardship.
In response, past district governor Philip Clancy said the pursuit of peace remained as Rotary’s most urgent challenge, and encouraged clubs to continue advancing Rotary’s seven areas of focus.
The Rotary board for 2026-27 includes Craig Hoath, Russel Chapman, Samantha Manning, Peter Holland, Ruth Byers, Bonnie Williams, Fiona McCarthy, Jane Challis, president Bill Dwyer and (absent) Dave Palmer.
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The local club’s commitment to strengthening youth participation in sport was also emphasised throughout the afternoon.
“The event highlighted the club’s new sporting grants initiative, designed to support young people facing financial barriers to community sport,” a Rotary Club of Seymour spokesperson said.
“Grants were presented to representatives of the Ryu Senshi Dojo Club and the Longwood Football Netball Club, reflecting Rotary’s ongoing investment in youth development.”
The local club has also supported the community in many other ways throughout the year, with Ms Byers reporting that community donations were distributed progressively to meet immediate needs.
“Beneficiaries included the Seymour Performers Workshop, Gnarly Neighbours, the Seymour Sharks Swimming Club and the CFA,” the spokesperson said.
“Market proceeds also contributed to the town’s Australia Day celebrations.”
The club also supported fire recovery following the January bushfires.
In her annual report, Ms Byers noted a number of significant achievements from the year, including the induction of 10 new members, a 348 per cent increase in Facebook engagement through a district-supported digital initiative, and the successful revival of the Rotary Market.
Fundraising success was seen through the club’s trivia night, golf day and “shake the can” for Good Friday.
The club also made international contributions to ShelterBox and End Polio Now, participated in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program and supported the launch of the Say No to Domestic Violence campaign.
Mr Clancy formally inducted Bill Dwyer as the president for 2026-27, under the Rotary theme “Create Lasting Impact”.
Mr Dwyer spoke about the club’s strong momentum and expressed appreciation for Ms Byers’ leadership.
He also welcomed his new board and affirmed his commitment to sustaining Rotary’s tradition of service and community engagement.
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