An article by journalist, Evie Lamb entitled “Four Decades of Helping Out” which appeared recently in the Moorabool News, Times News Group
Image: Evie Lamb, Moorabool News
Russell Gilbert is an example of what can be achieved with a zest for giving back, a mind for figures, and a sense of balance. The retired accountant is marking 40 years of service with Bacchus Marsh Rotary Club, and for all he has achieved he has been congratulated not only by fellow Rotarians across the district but by the president of Rotary International.
Image supplied.
Image supplied
Seventy-seven-year-old Gilbert has been president of the local club three times and has served 16 years as its treasurer. He has supported the education of children at The School of St Jude in Tanzania,
including putting one youngster through university, has installed QuickBooks at the school, hosted exchange students, and more. “I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in 2010 to raise money to buy buses for The School of St Jude,” Gilbert said.
As current club treasurer, he aims to keep club finances in order: he oversees the results of fundraising efforts ranging from Bunnings barbecues to the annual art show, and also organises fundraising dinners complete with entertaining guest speakers.
There have been accolades earned by Gilbert along the way, including four highly regarded Paul Harris recognition, and much of his Rotary journey has been shared with his partner of many years, Geoff Camm – a Rotarian for about three decades.
“You don’t join Rotary to get a badge,” Gilbert said. “It’s the pleasure you get for doing all these things, making a contribution with something you can do.”
Cycling is one of Gilbert’s other passions, and most years since 2005 he has combined the pastime with service. He even rode 1,000km during one concentrated week to raise money for ovarian cancer research.
“The total I’ve contributed over the years is well over $106,250 including $70,000 that I’ve salary-sacrificed and $30,000 that people sponsoring me have given,” Gilbert said.
“I’ve ridden through Tasmania three times, including once all the way around and I got hyperthermia in one of the stretches.” But he survived and fully intends to continue the annual cycling quest, with the exception of next year when he is looking to walk the Kokoda Track with a mate instead.
(with thanks to Evie Lamb of the Moorabool News)