Brighton North Rotary has a BIG new goal to provide TEEN Mental Health First Aid to EVERY secondary school student in the Brighton bayside area

Article by PDG Julie Mason, Assistant Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator

The Recycle Regatta Project is the brainchild of David Simpson, a new member with experience in project management.

The Recycle Regatta is a boat race that challenges teams from Bayside schools and the community to construct boats using recyclable materials such as cardboard and recyclable plastic bottles and sail across the Royal Brighton Yacht Club Harbour. The focus is on fun, recycling, community engagement, creativity and will take place on March 19th, 2023.

The project concept was initially discussed with several local private and public secondary schools. The schools were very encouraging as the project involves design work and teamwork as well as education on the recycling of waste. The local council has also been approached and the feedback was that the project fitted in with their recycling and climate change policy.

The event will be undertaken with the partnership of the Royal Brighton Yacht Club, the 1st/14th Brighton Sea Scouts, Bayside Council, Parks Victoria, and possibly local Bayside Rotary Clubs. A grant from Bayside Council and the Rotary Foundation means getting a little wet and will enable hundreds of teenagers to do a Mental Health Training Course. Peer to peer support is fundamental to wellbeing with vulnerable youth.

The website for the Recycle Regatta https://www.recycleregatta.org.au/ really tells the story with marketing through social media creating enthusiasm and building momentum Brighton North Rotary will “make a splash” in March.

As President Mark Stephens said, “We want to raise awareness of our club and what we do, provide members with a meaningful project, and hopefully attract new members.”

David, commented that it was a powerful introduction to the working of his club and others. It enabled him to work closely with fellow members and get to know club members better. He feels satisfied when working for cause such as teen mental wellness.

Once again, the Rotary Foundation, through a local District Grant, will “do good” for young people in need.

This is a project that could be replicated with any Rotary Club with access to a body of water and a sense of fun! Why not get on Board if this is you and your Rotary Club.

Photos and logo from https://www.recycleregatta.org.au/