From the President
Another busy week behind the secenes while I get my head around everything and prioritise all the emails and jobs, Fortunately I am learning to delegate without guilt!
Under the careful organisation of PP Mike Williams the Gawler Show Parking is ticking along. The small committe of representatives from Gawler Light and the Girl Guides Assoc of Gawler and Mike from our club have everything sorted for a smooth day. Hopefully the weather will be nice and not too much rain leading up to the 29th will allow easy parking for everyone.
On Monday evening we were joined by guest speaker Rob Goodwin and regualr guests Meradith and Pete Smith and Sally Richardson. after dinner we had the pleasure of hearing from Rob Goodwin, whose uplifting attitude and remarkable sporting journey inspired us all.
Rob’s positive outlook shone throughout his talk, as he shared how embracing a can-do mindset has helped him overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary things. In 1983, Rob’s life changed dramatically after a motor vehicle accident left him a paraplegic. Despite facing immense challenges, Rob demonstrated incredible resilience and determination.
During his rehabilitation, Rob received tremendous support from Wesfarmers, his employer at the time. Wesfarmers helped Rob to maintain his employment by transferring him to a more suitable location, enabling him to continue building a rewarding career.
Rob’s commitment to staying active led him to the world stage—representing Australia in wheelchair fencing at multiple Paralympic Games. His stories of dedication, training, and competition highlighted not only his athletic talents but also the joy he finds in pushing his own boundaries. Rob is also an accomplished Wheelchair basketballer.
A highlight of Rob’s visit was seeing the Medal he won at the Olympics and also a sabre he used in competition, giving members a chance to see and hold a true symbol of skill and sporting achievement. His passion for sport was infectious, and he spoke powerfully about how staying active—both physically and mentally—has been central to his resilience and fulfilment.
Beyond sport, Rob also shared stories about his impressive fruit orchard at Mallala, but it was clear that his greatest satisfaction comes from setting goals and living life with enthusiasm and determination.
Rob’s energy and achievements left a lasting impression on us all.
Next week (18th August) we are meeting on Tuesday with Rotary Club of Gawler Light at Cafe Nova. Please note that if you have indicated you are ordering a meal you should arrive at 6pm. For those who are only attending the meeting please note the meeting starts at 7pm. As there are 16 of us plus Gawler Light it is advised you arrive early to find a seat.
Monday 24th August we will be back to NIxon's with Mark Willoughby our guest speaker. From this meeting members are asked to see Bob and Geoff to purchase their washers with cash or card then Pay Curtis [Nixon's] directly for your meal and drinks using only EFTPOS.
If you do not have a card PP Kyle said he is happy to pay on his card and you can pay him the cash.
Have you bought your tickets yet??
Remember you can help the club by supporting us in the current People First Lottery. Below you will find the flyer with our unique QR code. Please follow this link to buy tickets remembering that every $2 ticket you buy and nominate the Rotary Club of Gawler we receive the full $2. There are some great prizes so jump online and grab some while you are thinking about it! (tickets are only available online and with a debit card).
Yours in Rotary Angela Moore
President RCG 2026-27
