Rotary Club Closes After 72 Years Amid Shifts in Volunteer Trends

The Myrtleford Rotary Club has officially closed its doors after 72 years of dedicated service. This decision comes as the organization faced dwindling membership, now down to just eight active participants. The beloved barbecue, a symbol of their fundraising efforts, has been passed on to the local Lions Club, which boasts a healthier membership of 33.

Challenges in Volunteerism

The closure of Myrtleford Rotary signals a broader trend in volunteer organizations across Australia. Many clubs are grappling with declining membership numbers. Between 2020 and 2025, 92 Rotary clubs shut down, with the average membership plummeting to around 22 members, significantly lower than the global average.

Changing Dynamics in Community Involvement

Former member Gail Robertson highlighted a critical issue: the changing family dynamics and lifestyles that affect how Rotary and similar clubs operate. “We have to look at how we engage with the community,” she stated. Alma Adams also noted that technology and social media have impacted traditional social gatherings, making it harder to attract members.

• 72 years of operation for Myrtleford Rotary Club.
• Only 8 members remained before closure.
• 92 Rotary clubs closed between 2020 and 2025.
• Current average membership at 22, below the global average.

The Future of Volunteer Clubs

Despite these challenges, the Lions Club is striving to maintain its growth. Secretary Chris Buono emphasized the need for innovative recruitment strategies to appeal to younger generations. Instead of imposing traditional meeting formats, they are encouraging potential members to participate in a way that suits them.

Adapting to New Volunteer Preferences

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated changes in the volunteer landscape. Individuals increasingly prefer flexible, interest-based volunteering over traditional commitments. Mark Pearce, CEO of Volunteering Australia, pointed out that many people choose to engage in informal volunteerism rather than joining structured organizations.

As community needs evolve, so must volunteer organizations. Engaging with volunteers in a manner that resonates with contemporary lifestyles is crucial for survival and growth in the future. Organizations like Rotary are beginning to embrace this change by forming new-style clubs aimed at attracting younger members.