Sparkle 46#11- 9th September 2025 (Sep. 09, 2025)

Rotary Meeting Notes

Welcome & Opening:

Meeting started with a Rotary Invocation and toast to Australia and Rotary International.

Guest Speaker - Tracey Goldsworthy -Lambcare Australia

Tracey, representing Lambcare Australia, introduced the organization as a not-for-profit rescue group for sick and unwanted lambs and sheep, primarily operating in Victoria but with aspirations to expand nationwide.
Captain, a three-week-old lamb in Tracey's care, was introduced, with details about his rescue story, health challenges, and bottle-feeding routine shared.

Tracey explained the origins of Lambcare Australia, founded by two women who struggled financially to rescue lambs independently, leading to the establishment of the organization.
Lambcare receives lambs from farmers, vets, the public, and pounds, with most arriving in compromised health due to missed colostrum, injuries, or other issues.
Tracey described her role as a critical carer, managing lambs with severe health issues, including IV feeding and addressing tummy problems, often requiring sleepless nights.

3. Heartwarming Stories and Videos

Tracey shared several success stories of lambs rescued and rehabilitated by Lambcare, including Briley, a lamb found unresponsive due to worm burden, who recovered after a live blood transfusion and eight weeks of care.
Videos and photos showcased the equipment used for lamb rehabilitation, such as slings and incubators, and highlighted the progress of lambs like Briley, Nashie, Trip, and Sprout.
Tracey emphasized the challenges of caring for premature lambs, such as dehydration and low birth weight, and shared the story of a 1.5 kg lamb that successfully recovered and was adopted.

4. Challenges and Operational Details of Lambcare Australia

Tracey discussed the financial challenges faced by Lambcare, including annual vet bills of approximately $100,000, nappy expenses of $2,000, and significant feed costs.
The organization relies on public donations and government grants to cover expenses, with hay being a critical need for feeding lambs.
Equipment used for lamb care, such as scales and clippers, is often purchased through government grants, but feeding and medical care remain the primary focus.
Tracey highlighted the importance of adoption selection for lambs, ensuring they are placed in suitable homes as companion animals.

5. Advocacy and Awareness

Tracey shared her journey into lamb rescue, sparked by witnessing slaughtered lambs in a paddock and learning about the lack of mandatory shelter and medical treatment for primary produce animals.
She emphasized the need for public awareness and advocacy for better treatment of lambs and sheep, noting that assisting injured animals without permission can lead to legal consequences.
Tracey expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the Rotary Club meeting, highlighting the importance of spreading awareness about Lambcare's mission.

6. Questions and Answers

Tracey answered several questions from attendees, about the number of lambs in her care, the role of male lambs, and the logistics of transporting lambs to critical care.
She explained her limit of four healthy lambs and two critical cases at a time to ensure proper care and avoid missing health issues.
Tracey described the collaboration with Pam Edgar’s Mission for temporary care and the role of skilled shearers in working with blind and deaf sheep.
She shared that approximately 200 lambs have come through her care, with her family stepping up to support her work alongside her full-time cleaning business.

7. Closing Remarks

Toni-Anne provided a response to Tracey’s presentation, thanking her for sharing her experiences and insights about Lambcare Australia.
Tracy expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to speak and emphasized the importance of raising awareness about lamb rescue and care.

Community Committee Updates

Rotary Club meeting focused on community initiatives, funding presentations, cultural exchange programs, and upcoming events planning.

Youth Committee - Gloria

Aboriginal Cultural Exchange Program at Cockatoo Primary School

Darrelyn, principal of Cockatoo Primary School, shared insights into the school's 32-year-long Aboriginal cultural exchange program with Ramangining School in the Northern Territory, emphasizing its unique longevity and impact.
The program has involved approximately 350-370 individuals from Ramangining visiting Cockatoo, fostering cultural appreciation and community connections, supported by a $1500 funding presentation from the Emerald District Club.

Music Program Funding

Emerald Secondary College music program received $1,000.

Originally intended for instruments; after consultation with Head of Music (Katrina Owen), funds will enable five students to participate, with a focus on involving as many children as possible in school music activities

EarlyAct

Lyn and Gloria held the second Early Act meeting at Gembrook, where children began discussing potential projects and elected leadership roles, indicating progress in student engagement and organizational structure.

Upcoming Events and Volunteer Coordination

Kris and Ken discussed volunteer efforts for the Puffing Billy events, highlighting Greg's success in securing a grant to include attractions like Stilt Walkers and Bubble Man.
Volunteers for the Puffin Billy Running Festival were briefed on logistics, including water station and course marshal roles, with specific instructions on parking and high-vis jacket collection.

Social Activities and Member Engagement

New members were welcomed with badges, and plans for future social activities, including a hands-on project night, were discussed to enhance member involvement.

Good News and Updates from Members

Marcus shared updates about his daughter's performance in Harry Potter and his involvement in a national chapter initiative, showcasing personal and professional achievements.
Members shared good news and updates, contributing to a positive and supportive atmosphere during the meeting.

PUFFING BILLY KIDS FUN RUN

Thank you to all for so kindly volunteering to assist with the PR stand at Lakeside to spread awareness of the Rotary Kids Fun Run with Puffing Billy.

Between the information Toni-Anne and Kris have received the below roster has been drafted. If for any reason your entry is wrong, please can you let Kris know.

Major Event Diary Dates:

Other Items of Interest:

Vision Statement

Mission Statement

CHOCLOTTO JACKPOT $252.00

Events