ABOUT US
About Us
Fraser Coast Rotary Events Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation incorporated in Queensland that disburses all profits earned to community-based organisations across the Fraser Coast region.
Fraser Coast Rotary Events Inc. is a joint venture between the Rotary Clubs of Maryborough-Sunrise and Hervey Bay City.
Purpose
The purpose of Fraser Coast Rotary Events Inc. is to:
- FACILITATE community-based events and activities
- SUPPORT local community groups and projects
- PRESENT the community with a safe gathering place
- ATTRACT visitors to our region
Board of Directors
Robyn Dowling
Chairman
Robyn Dowling has lived on the Fraser Coast for more than 40 years. During this time, Robyn held librarian management roles with Maryborough City Council and Fraser Coast Regional Council. Robyn was responsible for the management of the Maryborough Library for 28 years, developing strong ties and partnerships with the Maryborough community. Robyn has been a member of Rotary Club of Maryborough-Sunrise for 20 years, being President twice, Secretary and most positions on the Board. Robyn has held several Rotary District positions including Assistant Governor and is currently District Secretary and President-Elect of Rotary Club of Maryborough-Sunrise.
Roger Skipsey
Treasurer
After relocating to Hervey Bay from Mornington, Victoria, in 2021 to be closer to family, I have fully embraced life on the Fraser Coast. I am now retired following a rewarding career in transport management, where I oversaw logistics within the construction materials and chemical industries.
Dedicated to community service, I currently serve as the Treasurer for the Rotary Club of Hervey Bay City. My commitment to the organisation’s mission is long-standing, having previously served as both President and International Director of the Rotary Club of Mount Martha.
Beyond my community work, I am an avid caravaner and birdwatcher, enjoying the natural beauty and lifestyle that retirement offers.
Geoff Buchannan
Director
Geoff is retired and married to Joanne, and we have three adult children, a mechanical tradesman, a nurse, and a teacher, who have five children between them.
They both owned and ran an auto mechanical business for 38 years, as well doing 24 hour RACQ roadside work. Fully trained 17 apprentices.
Before that, he was a farmer, aluminium door maker, timber cutter, public servant.
Geoff has been in Rotary 15 years, currently as membership director. He is President Elect for Rotary Club of Maryborough Sunrise for 2023/24. This will be his second term as President. He has served on the Board for many years.
Don Bennetts
Director
Don has over 35 years’ experience in business operations and has been an active member of Rotary for more than 30 years.
He brings a strong understanding of community engagement and practical market operations.
Before moving to Hervey Bay Don managed a large weekly Rotary Trash and Treasure market in Canberra for 8 years.
Don has extensive experience in managing large communication projects in Australia and overseas. Many of these projects involved event management and coordination for government and the private sector.
He is currently a member of the Rotary Club of Hervey Bay City.
Alec Brown
Secretary
Liz Beer
Director
Liz Beer is a resident of Fraser Coast and has been a director of family companies since 1998 including a registered training organisation from 1998 to 2013. She has been involved in developing multiple community programs across Australia and joined the Rotary Club of Hervey Bay City in 2010 serving in the position of Secretary on five occasions and as President for three. Liz has served on the youth committee for a total of eight years and has hosted many international students and coordinated Rotary Youth programs.
Kathryn Bannister
Director
Kathryn Bannister is a Director on the Board of Fraser Coast Rotary Events and an active member of the Rotary Club of Maryborough-Sunrise. With a strong background in community service, event coordination, and stakeholder engagement, Kathryn is passionate about supporting well-run community events that benefit the Fraser Coast. She also works as a self-employed real estate agent and Tour Coordinator | Tour Escort for Down Under Coach Tours, bringing practical experience, strong organisational skills, and a people-first approach to her board role.
Ellen Wharton
Director
Rotary International
As active members of local Fraser Coast Rotary Clubs, we channel our community commitment through five Avenues of Service, which are the foundation of activities.
- Vocational Service calls on every Rotarian to work with integrity and contribute their expertise to the problems and needs of society.
- Community Service encourages every Rotarian to find ways to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and to serve the public interest.
- International Service exemplifies our global reach in promoting peace and understanding. We support this service avenue by sponsoring or volunteering on international projects, seeking partners abroad.
- Youth Service recognises the importance of empowering youth and young professionals through leadership development programs such as Rotaract, Interact, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, and Rotary Youth Exchange.
Our areas of focus include:
- Peace and conflict resolution
- Disease prevention and treatment
- Water and sanitation
- Maternal and child health
- Basic education and literacy
- Economic and community development