Our usual breakfast meeting was replaced with "Rotary's Got Talent', an early morning fundraising get together at Craig's Royal Hotel at 7.15am on Wednesday 29th April, 2026 with funds raised being donated to the SES Ballarat Unit.
Members hurried to find the best spots in the wings, balcony, front row, and even the royal box. Heather Cassells welcomed our MC Phillip Lee who introduced our artists, all members of our club.
John Welford, the "Wandering Minstrel" captivated us with his rendition of Hallelujah skillfully accompanied by the Auto Harpo - a fascinating member of the zither family. He also led an entertaining singalong in Swahili, much to our amusement.
Next up was Merv Lincoln, the "Mythical Mysterious LEGEND" who entertained us with an engaging game of heads or tails, a spin on the traditional game of 2-Up.
Then came Mike Landry, his stage name was "Mike the Magician", also known as "Magic Mike" who left the audience in awe with a variety of tricks pulled from his little black bag and a mysteriously large pocket.
The final two performances featured Stewart Riddel, the Scot reciting some touching Gaelic poetry, followed by “truth or not” tales from "Gazza" Garry McKenzie, the traveling comedian. Gazza’s concluding stories left everyone smiling.
It was a wonderful morning filled with fun and merriment which raised over $800 for the SES - kudos to the entire team including Heather, Elissa and Phillip!
