Empress Wu Designs with Wilma

Gifts being delivered to a local school for distribution  The Tree of Joy is a community project of the Rotary Club of  Wallsend-Maryland  (Newcastle NSW) ... one might even call it an institution. For 49 years, at this time of the year, the community come together with the local Rotary club, and  give generously to others who are experiencing a difficult time.  In the early years, the Tree of Joy focussed on providing gifts to children of families who might not be able to provide Christmas presents.  In more recent times, the Tree of Joy has not only continued that role  but has also  extended help and support to anyone of any age, and especially those whose livelihood has been compromised by natural disasters - flood, drought and fire and the Covid pandemic.  Rotary Club of Wallsend-Maryland  Most people like to take a tag from one of the many Christmas trees placed in local businesses and the office of our local member of Parliament...

Angels of Hope packed ready to be distributed. Doll making is not usually associated with Rotary Clubs. I think my Rotary club ( Rotary Club of Wallsend-Maryland in District 9670) is very special. We have supported local women's refuges and domestic violence resource centres over the years in many different ways. Making and donating little dolls - angels of hope - is just one of the ways. It is also a wonderful project for us, as our members love coming together and creating, even though many of them have little experience with sewing or making dolls. While we may be doing something for our community, we are learning some new skills and having fun at the same time. On Sunday, 29 September, we had the annual Rotary  "doll making" day. And if you are thinking only the women get involved, certainly not the case!  The men provide the numerous cups of tea and coffee which are necessary for this project, and  always serve the most beautiful and delicious mo...