The heart of community service is struggling to beat as strong as it used to, with beloved volunteer clubs facing an existential crisis! For decades, the comforting aroma of a barbecue has symbolized the vibrant spirit of grassroots fundraising, a tradition that has powered countless community initiatives. Think of the sizzle of sausages and the sweet scent of onions – these aren't just culinary delights; they've been the engine behind thousands of dollars raised by groups like Myrtleford's Rotary Club, who inherited a beloved barbecue from a now-defunct Apex Club.
However, this iconic fundraising tool is about to change hands once more, mirroring a deeper shift. The Myrtleford Rotary Club, after an incredible 72 years of dedicated service, has made the heart-wrenching decision to close its doors. Their membership has dwindled to a mere eight individuals, a stark reality of aging and declining numbers.
But here's where it gets controversial... One former member, Gail Robertson, poignantly observed, "I don't have the answer, but I do really think we need to look at how we operate, how Rotary operates, and how all service clubs operate. If the family dynamics have changed, we have to change too." This raises a crucial question: Are these clubs clinging to outdated models in a world that's rapidly evolving?
Many point to the relentless march of technology and the pervasive influence of social media as key culprits. "Our connectivity now has just changed so dramatically — it's all in your pocket," lamented former member Alma Adams. "That issue of going to meet people over a dinner … it just doesn't happen anymore." This shift in how we connect fundamentally alters the appeal of traditional, face-to-face club meetings.
And this is the part most people miss... The struggle to find new blood is a nationwide phenomenon. The Myrtleford Rotary Club's shed keys have been passed to the local Lions Club, which, with 33 members, is doing relatively well but still faces recruitment hurdles. Chris Buono, the Lions Club secretary, acknowledges, "We are an aging services club … we have to find those things that we do well." This highlights the need for clubs to actively identify and leverage their strengths.
Tim Cossor, whose role is to bring in new members, has found that a gentler approach works best for younger generations. He explains that the idea of traditional meeting obligations can feel overwhelming. "They think it's a huge commitment," he said. "We just want you to do what you can do." This flexible, 'do-what-you-can' philosophy is a significant departure from long-standing club structures.
The decline isn't new; it's a trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2020 and 2025, a staggering 92 Rotary clubs have ceased operations, with an average membership of 22, significantly below the global average. Lions Australia has also experienced a membership dip over the past 15 years. Both organizations recognize that people are increasingly seeking volunteer opportunities that are flexible and interest-based.
Rob Oerlemans, Lions Australia executive officer, shared, "This gives people in the community a place to meet like-minded people and make a difference in meaningful ways." Rotary, too, is adapting, establishing 21 new clubs since 2020 and seeing new-style clubs attract younger members, even as smaller, older clubs face the inevitable.
Volunteering Australia emphasizes that while volunteering remains vital, the way people volunteer has transformed. Chief executive Mark Pearce notes, "People are just grabbing the opportunity, grabbing some friends and going and doing things that they are either interested in or need to be done without going through organisations." This suggests a move towards more spontaneous, informal volunteering.
However, Pearce also stresses that organized charities and clubs are still crucial for identifying and addressing community needs. "In order for volunteering to survive and thrive into the future, we need to engage with volunteers in a way that makes sense to them," he urged. "We need to look really closely at improving the volunteer experience."
So, what do you think? Are these volunteer clubs too set in their ways, or is the shift in societal values the real culprit? Should clubs completely overhaul their traditional structures, or can they find a middle ground? Share your thoughts below – we'd love to hear your perspective!
