When a doing a good deed for an individual turned into a Rotary membership and doing good deeds for the community!

Article by PDG Merewyn Wright, Assistant Rotary Coordinator

When a local good Samaritan came to the aid of young university student Jack Livingston after he experienced mechanical issues with his vehicle, little did Jack know that this chance meeting was to result in him becoming a Rotarian!

Jack moved from Ballarat, Victoria, to Townsville in 2021 to complete a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at James Cook University. His “good Samaritan” happened to be Past District Governor Allan Church, currently the Membership Chair of the Rotary Club of Townsville Sunrise. In the conversation that ensued, Jack learned about the Club’s signature “Red Socks – Prostate Awareness” project.

The project resonated with Jack as several of his uncles had battled prostate cancer, and asked if he could help in some way, to return the favour.

PDG Allan takes up the story:

“Jack wasted no time in acting. He received 30 pairs of Red Socks, which he promptly distributed and sold at his student college within a single day. He requested more socks. With an additional 20 pairs of Red Socks in hand, Jack extended his efforts to the university. His proactive approach not only raised awareness about prostate health but also contributed to valuable funds for related projects.”

Jack was then asked to some club meetings, and in due course was invited to join, and at 21 years of age, Jack is the club’s youngest member.

After joining, Jack suggested that the club start a Starfish Nippers Program, the Life Saving skills program designed for children with disabilities, which he was aware of from his home state of Victoria.

Jack said, “It gained a lot of traction in the Club, and in combination with support from Picnic Bay Surf Life Saving club, we were able to get it off the ground!”

The program funding was secured in only a matter of months and Jack personally drove this forward with the first launch day held at Townsville’s Strand with extremely positive feedback.

Ben Thompson, the current Townsville Sunrise President, is highly supportive of Jack’s initiative, and the contribution that younger members can make to Rotary clubs in general.

President Ben said, “I would encourage the younger generation to come along to a local Rotary club's meeting to find out how they can make a big impact with the big wheel of Rotary”.

PDG Allan Church agrees; “Jack Livingston's presence in Sunrise club has injected new ideas and fresh perspectives. His enthusiasm and dedication have inspired both senior members and newcomers, reinforcing the importance of mentorship and community engagement.”

Jack’s story reminds us all, that people of all ages can make valuable contributions as Rotarians. It also reminds us to talk about Rotary and its projects at every opportunity. Through having great projects, as the Rotary Club of Townsville does, and making sure we tell people about them, we can help to “Grow Rotary”.