Posted by Director of Service, Lili Teichmann on Mar 15, 2023
Photo of President Heather Watson working in a gardenFive months ago our Victorian regions were subjected to huge flooding with the town of Rochester was particularly impacted. Rochie is now ready for us to provide assistance so it’s time to head over there, roll up our sleeves and do some serious volunteering. 
 
While many people are still not able to return to their homes, continuing to live in caravans or with family and friends, the rains have created much growth in the gardens and this is where they are requesting assistance.  
 
You don’t need to have green thumbs to help – just a willingness to spend a few hours tidying up the gardens, lawns, community spaces mowing lawns, whipper snippering, weeding and general garden pruning. The last thing we need is overgrowth, particularly during hot weather times.
 
 
Please share this volunteering opportunity within your clubs and organize a team of members to volunteer for a day or even a weekend to do a Working Bee. This is an ongoing volunteering opportunity as it will take many months to clear the grounds. Consider doing an overnight stay – the motel will open up again after Easter, or you could stay in Echuca -Moama which is about half an hour’s drive from Rochester. An overnight stay or weekender will do so much to assist the local economy which has been affected due to the floods.
 
Please let’s work together. This is what being a Rotarian is all about - bring your garden tools and help our communities in Rochester. Any tools such as mowers, whipper snippers, rakes, wheelbarrows etc will be very welcome so please pack these with you.
 
To arrange a working bee opportunity please connect with Rotary Club of Rochester President, Heather Watson. Heather is excited to chat with you and coordinate a visit, discuss what needs to be done, where you could stay, eat and provide help to local communities.
 
Let’s do this and make it happen!!