From the north of Melbourne to southern New South Wales, Rotary District 9790 includes 65 diverse Rotary Clubs. This year, Interplast has been incredibly fortunate to have the support of those clubs, led by the inspirational and dynamic Carol O’Connell. By nominating Interplast as her Partner Project, Carol has shared the Interplast story with all the Clubs in the District and facilitated donations of more than $23,000!
At the annual District 9790 Conference held in Albury earlier this month, Carol raised an additional $1043. Going the extra mile, Carol pledged to walk 979kms during the year, to raise awareness of Interplast. Her walk finished on the banks of the Murray River in Albury, just hours before the conference ended.
Interplast volunteer surgeon David Morgan, with Carol O’Connell and her partner, District 9790 Governor, Stephen O’Connell.
But the good news didn’t stop there — local businessman, Andrew Kotzur, made an incredible offer. For every donation made to Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) during the conference, his business would donate a matching amount to Interplast. By the end of the conference, nearly $5,000 had been raised for each organisation and promises to change many lives as a result.
Representatives of ALWS, Interplast Rotary Coordinator Janette Etherington and Andrew Kotzur in the conference marketplace.
Rotarians were also treated to an impactful presentation by Interplast volunteer surgeon David Morgan. David delivered a keynote speech at the conference, recounting his experiences on many Interplast surgical programs to Tonga. He was also up early to join Carol and other Rotarians on the Sunday walk.
Volunteer surgeon David Morgan speaking about Interplast and his experiences on programs in Tonga.
Everyone at Interplast would like to thank Carol most sincerely for her commitment and unflagging energy in raising money for Interplast. We also thank all of Rotarians and Clubs in District 9790 who have donated to Interplast, and Andrew Kotzur for his generosity.
If you would like to book an Interplast speaker for your club, we welcome you to register your interest!
