Chadstone East Malvern back to Cambodia

In early 2025, Rotary Chadstone East Malvern (RCEM) members Paul Rake, Tania Aisbett, Kathryn O'Connor & friend of the club Sue Perriman headed to Cambodia for two weeks to continue the ongoing volunteer works in collaboration with Balwyn Rotary and Rotary Foundation. This recent trip was to finalise the completion of a three-year project: 307 washroom toilet facilities in the village of Tapoeur.
Our partners during this time were members of the Build Your Future Today (BFT) of Siem Reap an NGO that works on the principles of five key project areas: education, health & nutrition, capacity building, peace-building, and child support. Also joining the RCEM volunteers on the project were Darrel STEER of the Cambodia Clean Water & Toilets Project and nine woman and men from the Reece Foundation whose role was building the final washroom and 
toilets. During our first week, in local villages we:
  • Interacted with the villagers, promoting teeth brushing, hand and general hygiene education. With guidance from Darrel and support from the Reece Foundation volunteers, the team completed ten washroom and toilet installations.
  • Provided dental hygiene education including nail cutting, and nutrition talks. Nurse Nina highlighted key medical supply needs which our club was able to deliver.
  • Distributed 200 toothbrushes and toothpaste along with education, along with school supplies and sports equipment.
  • Provided hygiene sessions, games, and discussions on future careers.
  • Engaged with community leaders on strategies to reduce plastic burning. Proposed involving students in recycling efforts to fund a school library.
During the second week we:
  • Continued our connections to the local communities, carrying over 150 pieces or 30 kg of baby clothes which were distributed to soon to be mothers and mothers of young babies. This donation was made possible by the wonderful effort of Jan Aisbett who went around to Op Shops in the Wimmera who generously donated these much needed and appreciated items. The smiles and thanks of the parents were a highlight of the trip.
  • Conducted further education and distribution of toothbrushes, toothpaste, school supplies, and sports equipment and special sessions on CPR for 100 people ranging in age from 10 to over 60. 
  • Conducted family planning workshops for teachers and locals, covering contraception, reproductive health, and hygiene.
  • Led a menstrual health session for 24 girls and a teacher, covering puberty, hygiene, and period care.
  • Taught English to Grade 4 and Grade 6 students.
  • Completed the 307th toilet in time for the official handover ceremony for the Water & Sanitation Global Grant project funded by the Rotary Foundation on the Friday. Hundreds attended, including local officials, with speeches and traditional dances, wrapped up with a farewell lunch before heading back to Siem Reap.
Our recent trip was more than just a trip - was a heartfelt experience filled with gratitude and unforgettable moments. Every step taken, every new face met, and every breathtaking view reminded us of how vast and beautiful our world truly is. We returned home with a heart full of appreciation, new perspectives, and cherished memories that will stay with us forever.
 
If you’d like further information of our partners please see the links below:
Build Your Future Today https://buildyourfuturetoday.org
Days for Girls International https://www.daysforgirls.org