General News
31 July, 2025
New president for Ararat Rotary
THE Ararat Rotary Club recently hosted its Annual General Meeting, welcoming members and guests from the Beaufort, Maryborough, and St Arnaud Rotary Clubs, as well as representatives from the local Probus and Lions clubs.
In his final address as President, Cameron Whyte highlighted the strength of the club’s community connection.
“As we all know, there can be no club without the ongoing support of the members who turn up and make the (Rotary) club the valuable asset it is and always has been to the greater Ararat community and Rotary International.”
A major focus of the AGM was the club’s ongoing support for BlazeAid, which has helped communities affected by fire in the district.
More than 23 Rotary Clubs contributed to support the Willaura BlazeAid camp, with approximately $50,000 donated, primarily to assist with catering costs.
The club also contributed to Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS), with district support helping raise $96,000 for drought emergency relief.
“We have been at the mercy of Mother Nature with fires and drought in our area, and once again we have tried to help as much as possible when asked,” said Mr Whyte.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of Rotarian of the Year, awarded to Jenni Armstrong.
Her contributions include ongoing support for local football, regular club communications, financial assistance, and transporting medical supplies to Geelong under the Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment (RARE) program.
The meeting also marked a change in leadership, with Carolyn Holden officially taking over as President from Cameron Whyte. Morris Allgood was confirmed as Treasurer, and Peter Oddie as Secretary for the upcoming year.
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