There have been some adverse comments made on air and in print media, regarding the non-use of funds raised during the recent Channel 9/Rotary Telethon.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It has been implied that Rotary, and/or the National Farmers Federation, have been sitting on these funds and not getting them out to those who desperately need them.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Of the original $10 million (approximately) there remains about $2m. That means that $8m has been distributed.
I am the chair for Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) in District 9650 and I have so far authorised our entire allotment of $250,000 from these funds to be distributed to Rotary clubs in the drought areas and I am about to apply for a second amount.
All clubs in our district have gone to great lengths to raise funds of their own which, when added to the Telethon money, amounts to about $400,000.
Although this sounds like a lot of money, when divided between 30 clubs, it can only give temporary relief.
But importantly it gives the farming community a sense that someone cares.
Rotary charge nothing in administrative costs for funds from the Telethon and only 2.5% on other funds. This compares favourably to other organisations which can deduct anything from 25-80%
For anyone to suggest that we are holding back funds is highly insulting and quite hurtful.
All members in all Rotary clubs in D9650 have worked tirelessly to bring comfort and assistance to the farming communities in an area which takes in Woolgoolga in the north to Forster/Tuncurry in the south, then out west to Coonabarabran and Lightning Ridge, then back east through Moree, Inverell and Dorrigo.
We have been well supported by Rotary clubs from Sydney, The Mountains, Tasmania, South Australia, Queensland and West Australia along with many individuals and corporations.
For as long as this drought continues the community can rest assured that Rotary will be right there doing our best to bring comfort, dignity and a sense that someone cares.
Reg Pierce
Chairman RAWCS D9650
President of Wauchope Rotary