Our Club has a new meeting schedule.  

Basically one meeting of the month is a Internal Club items,  with another meeting with a Guest Speaker.

Partners invited. 

Current schedule is 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month. Optional Social dinner @ 6pm with the meeting starting at 7pm. 

Below shows the plan for the near future.   

Meetings are at the Crows Nest Hotel, Crows Nest.  (Cnr Falcon St & Pacific Highway) 

See latest eBulletin(below right hand side) for next week's speaker  
 
Meeting Schedule for the year: 
 
Date
LOCATION
 
Tuesday 4th August  
Dinner - Crows Nest Hotel  
Tuesday 25th August   Dinner -  Willoughby RSL 
Tuesday 1st September    Dinner - Crows Nest Hotel 
Tuesday 15th September  Dinner Crows Nest Hotel 
 

Follow this link for details

Take time to watch this short video on the club.
 
Changeover2026
CHANGEOVER DINNER
 
What a fantastic evening! Filled with energy, laughter, and a wonderful sense of community, it was the perfect celebration of both new member inductions and the recognition of outstanding contributions to the club.
 
A special thank you to Mark and Angelo, who did a superb job leading the evening. Their enthusiasm created an atmosphere that was welcoming, making everyone feel part of something special. We were honoured to have dignitaries District Governor Michele Ellery and her husband Paul, PDG Gina Growden and Cathie Glinka President of North Sydney Sunrise in attendance.
 
       Dr Ian Kerridge, one of Australia’s leading haematologists and bone marrow transplant physicians delivered a fascinating presentation on the remarkable advances in haematology treatments and the growing role of stem cell research in transforming patient outcomes. In recognition of his outstanding service to the community, his life-saving contributions to haematology and cancer care, and the profound impact he has had on countless lives, Dr Kerridge was presented with Rotary’s highest honour for a non-Rotaria, the Paul Harris Fellow Award
 
We also celebrated new members and awards. Our new members are Andre Chinnery, Bev Carylon and Jane Duckworth. All were awarded their Rotary pins by Mark and the DG. We also welcomed Wes McNight who has joined us from the Ballart club. These new members have already made an impact, and we look forward to more success. 
 
 
 
 
The Cyril Clark Award was presented to Angelo Raveane in recognition of his outstanding service, dedication, and continuity of leadership within Rotary. Described by the late Tom as “the backbone of the club” for more than 40 years, Angelo continues to play a vital leadership role and remains one of Rotary’s most committed volunteers.
Among his many contributions, Angelo oversees the RYLA program in Timor-Leste, coordinating annual visits
and securing approximately $50,000 in corporate funding each year to support the initiative demonstrating his ongoing commitment to strengthening Rotary’s impact and fostering leadership development both locally and internationally. His unwavering dedication, generosity, and service exemplify the very spirit of Rotary and make him a most deserving recipient of the Cyril Clark Award.
 
Paul Harris Fellowship award. There were three recipients:
 
  George Condell has provided outstanding support to the club over many years, including leading key fundraising and community activities such as the Crows Nest Fair and the MH BBQ. He has regularly attended Presidents’ Meetings and has been an active member of the Board for many years while also managing the club’s insurance matters. His unwavering commitment, reliability, and willingness to take on both leadership and operational responsibilities have made a significant contribution to the club’s success and sustainability.
 
  Ross Gugliotto, a recent Past President, has made an invaluable contribution to both Rotary and the wider Crows Nest business community. He has representing it at Rotary International Conventions and always stepping forward to support club initiatives whenever needed. Ross was presented with this award in recognition of his many years of dedicated service to Rotary and his tireless work behind the scenes. His leadership, commitment, and willingness to contribute—often without seeking recognition—have played an important role in the success and vitality of the club. His ongoing support and enthusiasm exemplify the spirit of Rotary service.
   
 
   Gloria received this award in recognition of her support to both the club and the President over the past year. Her contribution has been above what is traditionally expected of a secretary. As Sam remarked, “A better Secretary than Mark!”. Gloria has played a role in improving the way the club operates and helped strengthen club administration and governance.
 
 
 
 
The club continues to thrive thanks to a wonderful community of volunteers whose enthusiasm and willingness to help make all the difference. The evening was a fitting celebration, concluding with lively banter. As the conversations continued, Angelo found it no easy task to convince everyone that the evening had finally come to an end.
 
Pride of Workmanship 2026 
 
 
On May 19th the Pride of Workmanship dinner was jointly held with Lane Cove Rotary at the Chatswood golf club. This was a fun filled evening with many in attendance. We recognise members of the local community who go above & beyond in their job , whether it be a business person, employee or a volunteer. Congratulations to our awards winners :- 
Danielle Ravese, - A successful hairdresser who has built her business into one of the most successful on the North Shore. Her success has been matched by her kindness & generosity to clients, taking a keen interest in what they do, including free home visits to those too ill to visit her.     
Joy Campbell-Stephen - A volunteer at Royal North Shore Hospital for over 20 years, running the Pink Lady shop/ward deliveries, raising over $5 million under her guidance.  
Kerry Hammond -  A Meals on Wheels volunteer for many decades. She doesn't just deliver meals, she gives support, encouragement, and a kind word , building a deeper connection with those she visits. 
 
Their above and beyond service to community is very much appreciated and the recognition well deserved.
 
Recently departed Tom Sweeney, was vocational Director and driver of POW for many years, so it was very special to have Joy Sweeney join us to present Tom’s awardee, and fill in as Vocational director for the evening. Her message the next day “Thanks for a great night, Tom would have been proud.” . 
 
We are planning to continue this as an annual event for Crows Nest Rotary. 
Cammeray Primary School Donation 
Donation to Cammeray Public School:  On a bright beautiful Monday morning , Mark ,Tom and Louise attended the morning assembly at Cammeray Public School. We were greeted by a lot of eager faces and beautiful music from the school band and Welcome to Country. After listening to the school notices Tom made a short speech to the students of “the best school on the North Shore” and presented a cheque to the principal for $1380 for the Visual Arts Program  This money was raised at the welcome back to school night were we sold 450 sausages in an hour and half. A new record for Rotary. 
A great outcome with collaboration one sausage at a time. 
Giving Night 2025
Annual Crows Nest Rotary Giving Night - Dec 15th, 2025 
 
Hosted by current President Mark Staples, on behalf of Past President Angelo Raveane, who choose the charities.
 
First let me acknowledge the hard work of  the members & friends who did raise this money. The monthly Bunnings BBQ  and our annual  Melbourne Cup Trifecta.   So over $26,000  has been allocated to Angelo in his year, and I have also contributed from next year’s allocation. Not bad for a club of 23 members
 
 
Tradition had the immediate Past President(Angelo)  hand out cheques based on the money raised in his/her year. Obviously with board approval, but we have a list of over 100 charities  of which all are in need of help - it becomes  a difficult task. Most new donations are a result of a presentation at one of our meetings.
 
Moving forward  I want to flag three potential changes. The key being we want to move from EOY  ‘Cheque writing’ to assistance in projects during the year.  We will also plan to complete a ‘charities’ assistance guide/checklist to help identify who is in most need, and thirdly we want to encourage new members to nominate a charity of their choosing  that we can assist.  Our club health check has also identified the need for more Governance around the process.  We are also working with one of Michelle’s district themes, in that we have started working with other clubs. One example you will hear about later. 
 
So tonight, we have a combination of projects and ‘Cheque Giving’, and we have  some that have already received their donation, and some yet to be given their, but looking forward to hearing how our donations will/has benefitted our community. 
 
 
 
Lets start with our Main project for the Year – Royal North Shore Hospital Breast Screening Unit. I need to explain  how we found the  $15,000. We had a District Grant of $5000, Angelo has allocated $4000 from tonight, I have contributed $4000 from next year’s allocation, and finally a big Thanks to Lane Cove Rotary(Jenny right) for their $2000. Meredith(middle) explained that the Breast screening device purchased saves women having to go thru  biopsies, significantly reducing the process, pain & anxiety. The impact on women  is remarkable.  
Whilst on RNSH with help from last year’s District grant, Community Director Louise reminded us our gift to the Neo Natal unit 
These units play a critical part in reducing jaundice in babies born prematurely. They are state of the art and much more efficient than the lights they have been using.
 
 
 
 
 
Going International, to India, we have Kerry Luxton  from Fisherfolk charity. Since 2004, Kerry Luxton has spent around two months each year volunteering in Kolkata and raises funds annually to support her work. The funds help cover costs for two homes for destitute elderly people in Kolkata, as well as salaries and materials for 12 teachers across six small schools in remote fishing villages on the Bay of Bengal. These schools serve around 300 children from fisherfolk and itinerant families, many of whom are the first in their families to receive an education. 
 
 
Back to Sydney where we have member Kate representing CANTEEN which is an organisation that supports children who are suffering from Cancer or have family member combating cancer. We financed a Canteen project called “Memory Box” to help children deal with devastating grief. Based on research it has been found that the boxes help to keep their memories safe and the small, meaningful pieces of their loved one’s life can be with them forever - It gives children a way to revisit their loved one and to remember.
 The boxes are made of beautiful wood and can contain paints, treasure boxes paper etc. 
 
 
 
 
Steve from Yaralla Scouts listed numerous activities and cost of a scout Jamboree, but critically the impact on the development of  the youths that attend. The effort the scout leaders put into these was also very impressive. 
 
The Rotary  Foundation was represented by Past President  Bill Lee , who noted numerous recipients of Rotary own charity, with the main two being the District Grants back to the clubs as well as the project to eliminate Polio. (note Bill Gates matches every Rotary $ for  Polio  Capped at $US50Million).  
 
ROMAC Chairman,  Chris Dunwell , replacing our honorary member and past Chairman of ROMAC, Harold Sharp who sent his apologies.  Chris reminded us of the how they bring in children from around the Pacific for operations that cannot be performed in their own countries. They find surgeons to work for nothing, but have huge hospital bills to pay. Deformities, serious burns and co-joined twins to name a few examples. 
 
 
 
 
 
Gail from Freedom Hub, shocked us all by referring to the 41,000 slaves in Australia today. Victims are trapped in forced labour, domestic servitude, human trafficking or forced marriage. Many don’t even realise they’re victims. The Freedom Hub exists to: End slavery in Australia , Help survivors recover and thrive & Partner with businesses to reduce global slavery. They are Australia’s only life-long recovery hub for survivors of modern slavery.  They empower survivors of modern slavery to rebuild their lives and train for lasting employment. Through our Survivor School, employment pathways, and ethical business initiatives, we provide real tools for long-term freedom.  A couple of excellent examples of survivors recovering re-enforced the the impact of the work they are doing. 
  
 
 
 
DG Michelle Ellery also stunned us with the fact that 2 in 5 children under 10 suffer from a form of mental illness. Michelle's partner  in conjunction with Rotary Health are funding a PhD in Children's mental health. Again more facts and examples rammed home the need for this research. 
 
Sharon from Care flight did not need to convince us the amazing work they do, and their impact on our community.  With 9000 patients treated every year, their work is legendary Their helicopter medical transports/rescues are world class and essential in saving lives. 
 
 
   
Lets me finished by acknowledging three other fantastic community groups here.  Whilst not in Angelo’s allocation this year we have, and will work very closely with them in the near future. No need to explain tonight, as you will probably be up here next year.
First We have Jennifer here tonight from Mary’s House(Women’s DV refugee)  who received thousands of Gift cards from our tree of joy last year.  Whilst nothing locked in for this year yet, we did received a comprehensive update at our meeting in October.
Secondly Taldumande (Youth Services)  we have Annie & Nicole here  and they meet only last week with Louise on a number of potential projects. We just approved $400 for their Xmas Lunch later this week.  
Thirdly, welcome to Mark Thompson, the new CEO of Crows Nest Community Centre, who replaced Denise Ward last week.  Whilst our key project is the monthly Rotary dementia Café, we work on a number of small projects. Latest example is yesterday Crows Nest Community Xmas Carols. We have used the Centre’s BBQ on a number of occasions this year, without filling up the Gas bottle, so I’m pleased to announce that the profit from yesterday’s BBQ will be going to the community centre.  $700.  A ‘flow thru’ rather than part of the Giving night allocations.
 
Message from our District Governor, Michelle, who attended,  

Dear President Mark and members of the Rotary Club of Crows Nest,

Thank you so much for having me at your Giving Night last evening. It was a pleasure to be part of such a special night that so clearly reflected the heart and generosity of your club.

I am deeply grateful for the very generous donation to the Australian Rotary Health partner project. Thank you for your continued commitment to mental health research and support — it truly makes a meaningful difference. 

It was also wonderful to see so many worthy organisations supported on the night, including CareFlight, The Rotary Foundation, and many others. Your club’s generosity and the way you actively engage with and support projects throughout the year are something to be proud of and to celebrate.

Thank you again for your hospitality, your kindness, and for the positive impact you continue to have in your community and beyond.

Warm regards,

Michele Ellery

President Changeover/Awards 2025
This year the Club’s changeover dinner was held at Lees Fortuna Court; Crows Nest and it was a wonderful success. There was a great turnout of members, family, friends and Club guests and Presidents from Lane Cove, Roseville and Chatswood. As well, two past District Governors - Harold Sharp and Gina Growden were also in attendance.
 
The evening was a wonderful community of great energy, laughter and comradery. The speeches, toasts and stories showed the incredible strength of the Rotary family.  Our new board members were also formally introduced - showing strong club continuity.
 
The evening ended far too soon with continued conversations well after the tables were cleared. The friendship and mutual support were clear and will certainly continue as the new Rotary year unfolds. 
 
 
imageimage       
 
Changeover dinner- Awards
 
Two well deserving club members were recognized for their outstanding contribution to the club: Incoming President Mark Staples was awarded the Cyril Clark Award and Louise Steblina received the Paul Harris Fellow award.
 
The Cyril Clarke award is a special, perpetual award in Cyril's name. It recognises exceptional members of our club who have shown the same dedication and commitment to the ideals of Rotary that Cyril embodied. Mark is a past president of our club and currently sits on the board. Since his joining he has been involved in all our club events, projects and fund raising. Mark has been recognised by our club over the years with a number of Paul Harris recognitions. Mark is an integral member of our club.
 
 
Louise is a relatively new Rotarian of only a few years but has been involved in all things rotary from day one. From attending the rotary leadership institute learning program on joining, attending district assemblies, participating in all club projects, now a board member, collaborating with other clubs on projects and brought many new ideas, projects and connections to our club. 
 
 
Read more...
Bill Lee 50 years
Crows Nest Rotary had great pleasure celebrating Bill Lee's 50 years of Rotary Service. 

It’s an honour and pleasure to be able to present this award to celebrate the dedication and excellence of a person who has helped shape the heartbeat of our organisation – Rotary.

Among all the awards we present Pride of Workmanship holds a special place. It recognises something that isn’t always easy to measure, but is impossible to ignore – the deep, personal commitment to doing one’s job not just well, but exceptionally, it’s about showing up with consistency,care and quiet confidence. I’s about setting a standard not because someone asked but because it’s the only way he knows how to work.

This year we recognise a Rotarian who has given as of next week 50 years of continuing service to our community through his membership of the Rotary Club of Crows Nest, Bill Lee.

Over the years Bill has served on the board many, many times as a director. Bill wasn’t always easy to work with, as every time he was tapped on the shoulder to be president his stock answer was “I am not ready yet”. However to our surprise in 1997 he announced he was ready. 

And what a year we had. He hit the road running having organised funding through Rotary grants, Ausaid and other clubs here and Overseas, to begin what became our China projects, over $700,000 in funds. Over the coming years under Bill’s stewardship 23 high schools were built in Binxian county, China. Over 3000 teachers attended training conferences and we oversaw numerous water projects for other clubs.

Bill has been involved in all avenues of service through his 50 years of service. He regularly attends our district conferences and been to many world conventions. He was involved in our four goodwill trips to SE Asia and China.

Bill was one of the first to welcome me when I asked to join over 40 years ago as he still does now with new members. That friendship has continued as Bill is a great believer in fellowship s the cornerstone of a great club. Bill and Lidia for many years when they lived in Bancroft Avenue hosted our annual club get togethers. 

Over the years our club has recognised Bill with 8+ Paul Harris Fellows

The maximum one can receive. In 2004 Bill received the Rotary International Service Above Self Award the highest award in Rotary. Only 150 maximum are given out each year. 

We thank you for the example you set, for the work you do, for the pride you take in doing it. It may not always make the headlines but it absolutely makes a difference.

Bill it gives me much pleasure to present you with your POW award. 

Also I have a personal congratulatory letter from our world president Stehanie Urchick.

Please join me in congratulating Bill on his many achievements.

It goes to without saying that Bill’s commitment to Rotary would not have been possible without the support of Lydia. Lydia has always been beside Bill at all our functions, conferences, conventions and fundraisers as a Rotarian, a spouse and a partner. So we would like to recognise Lydia for her support with a second Paul Harris Award for her years of support to both Bill & Rotary. 

 
 
Pride of Workmanship 2025
On Tuesday 22nd April 2025, Crows Nest Rotary joined with Lane Cove Rotary to award locals who have worked Above & Beyond in their jobs. This award is about attitude, commitment and Pride taken in doing a job well - every single day. 
This year be Pride of Workmanship were awarded to two workers at the Crows Nest Community Centre.
 
 
 
 
 
Denise Ward,  CEO of the community Centre, through her unwavering dedication, attention to detail, and passion for her work made a lasting impact. 
Under her guidance the Centre aims to provide & facilitate quality community programs and services that connect our local community, to help sustain community well being and reduce social isolation. Some examples are the  Dementia Cafe. ran in conjunction with Rotary, which provides a meeting place for those living at home, and their carers.  Colleagues and Rotarians admire her professionalism, persistence and ability to lead.  
 
 
 
 
Melanie Corner has been the Volunteer and Special Projects Coordinator at the Crows Nest Centre for almost 10 years. She is caring, dedicated and 100% dependable.
Mel is responsible for the Centre’s volunteer recruitment, data management and special events. Her role involves recruiting and supporting up to 200 active volunteers.
 
Mel is a creative and talented event organiser, coordinating and hosting a range of memorable events for volunteers and clients. While her primary role is to connect volunteers, staff and clients, Mel takes time to send each volunteer a birthday message and at Christmas sends 200 hand written Christmas cards.
 
Always available to celebrate volunteer success stories, Mel also lends an ear when things don’t go according to plan, either personally or in the course of volunteering. Needless to say, Mel is well loved by both the Centre’s staff and volunteers. Always happy to go above and beyond, Mel frequently assists the Centre’s Executive Officer undertaking special tasks and deputising for the Executive Officer during periods of extended leave.
Giving Night December 2024 
What a great night was had at our annual Christmas Giving Night. This year we combined with the Rotary Club of Lane Cove to make it an even greater night filled with laughter, camaraderie and good cheer. These donations as well as those already given during the year now total over $35,000. Well done all.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
This year’s recipients included
 
 
Canteen, 
 
 Careflight, ROMAC,
Rotary Foundation
 Marys House, 
 
 
 
 
 and Crows Nest Community Centre. 
 
 
There was also a cheque for the  RYPEN program in Dilli, East Timor. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As well as the giving we sang a few Xmas Carols, with Joy Sweeney giving an excellent (Irish) version of  the 12 days of Christmas. 
 
 
 
Adrienne with Door Prize donated by Amara Residences 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As usual a big Thank You  MC Tom Sweeney who ran the evening with precision and humour. 
D-Cafe
Posted on Feb 06, 2025
The first step is to come along to one of our regular meetings!
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RYLA - Timor-Leste
Rotary Youth Leadership in Timor-Leste
 
 
       Open (includes Barker College visit)
 
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