The Rotary Club has a long history of supporting local communities stretching back to 1905. They are often the beating heart of regional communities, and their contribution to Bedford Group in Port Lincoln illustrates their impact. Their invaluable support for the Bedford Fisheries Shed project exemplifies the true spirit of Rotary: ‘Service Above Self.’
Facing challenges in servicing the important Port Lincoln seafood industry due to outdated facilities, Bedford reached out to the community for fundraising support. The response was a testament to the power of collective action. The Rotary Club, alongside other generous local donors, supported a remarkable community fundraising effort, contributing to a fund of $140,000 to construct a new fisheries shed at Coromandel Place in Port Lincoln.
This project, the largest in the Club's history, has had a profound and lasting impact. The new shed, opened on 21 April 2023, not only provides a modern and functional workspace for Bedford's employees but also expands employment opportunities for people with disability in the region.
Named after long-time Bedford benefactor and fishing industry icon Sime (Sam) Simes, the new shed provides the capacity to continue supplying Bedford’s existing fisheries customers and expand offerings to make other essential fish and seafood devices such as oyster baskets and tuna straps.
The Rotary Club's commitment extended beyond community fundraising efforts. They spearheaded the bituminisation and landscaping project around the shed, ensuring accessibility and contributing to the beautification of the surrounding area. They also provided their cheerful presence at the Grand Opening, hosting a community sausage sizzle to celebrate the achievement.
Secretary of the Port Lincoln Rotary Club, Steve Hill, said “The Rotary Club takes pride in bringing people together to contribute to local projects. We want to make a difference, and we jumped at the chance to support Bedford with their new fisheries shed. Port Lincoln is a small community with a big heart, and helping to provide meaningful jobs for people with disability that will contribute to our fishing industry was a win-win.”
Rotarians Steve Hill, David Forbes, Mike Munro, Glenn Karutz, and Tony Thorpe, along with the entire club, embody the values of service, fellowship, and integrity that define Rotary. Their unwavering support for Bedford has not only provided more opportunities for people with disability but also strengthened the bonds Bedford has with the Port Lincoln community.
The contribution of the Port Lincoln Rotary Club serves as an inspiration to others and a wonderful example of the positive impact that community collaboration can have. We are delighted to recognise their efforts with a Bedford Life Membership.
📷 Past President Mike Munro and President Elect Robyn Rowsell accept the Life Membership certificate on behalf of the Rotary Club
