Rotary’s first ‘‘Festival of Giving’’ a success

The Rotary Club of Docklands’ organising committee has announced its first annual Festival of Giving as a success.

Held on November 30 at the NewQuay Piazza, the festival attracted around 7000 people according to Rotary member Loryn Clark.

The event featured performances, face-painting, multicultural stalls, roving entertainers, a zumba-thon and a modified car show featuring more than 100 cars.

According to Ms Clark, the car show, along with the music and entertainment attracted a young crowd.

“Rotary is often made up of older people so it was great to see a lot of the younger generation attend the festival,” Ms Clark said.

“We gave a lot of young entertainers the opportunity to perform, which was great,” Rotary member Mark Nutter added.

The event aimed to showcase how Docklands’ corporates contribute to the community, however the organising committee had difficulty engaging local businesses.

However, Mr Nutter said the experience had allowed the Rotary Club to form connections with stakeholders and gain knowledge about how to present the event to local corporates next time they hold the event.

“It was a great stepping stone for our next event,” Mr Nutter said.

While corporate involvement in the event did not eventuate, the Rotary Club agrees it was a great day for the local community and helped to raise $8000 for the Royal Children’s Hospital.

“In terms of a community event it certainly ticked all the boxes,” Rotary member Jim Hardy said.

Docklands Rotary Club plans to hold its second Festival of Giving in October or November this year.

If you’re is interested in becoming a Rotary Club of Docklands member or volunteering at rotary events contact Loryn Clark on 0418 390 334.