Dick Smith Donates $1M to Rotary

In July 2016, well known philanthropist Dick Smith was selling his aircraft and wanting to donate the proceeds to the aviation industry & other social causes in Australia. The plane was sold for over $4million. Amongst the $millions Dick & Pippa Smith allocated to various causes throughout Australia, one million dollars had been earmarked towards alleviating the suffering of Australians in need.

Club stalwart Bob Cleland had previously been asked by Dick Smith whether Rotary could be the means of seeing this vision fulfilled. Bob has had a long friendship with Dick. He agreed & the money is now set-up within the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society. The program will provide support for individuals suffering personal hardship. It will be up to Rotary Clubs to identify those recognised by the local community who need support and be willing to match the requested grant on a 50/50 basis.

Dick Smith presented to Rotary the one million dollars at the Rotary Club of Wahroonga in    December last year. In presenting the cheque Dick highlighted the fact that many Australians suffer hardship, whether through accident, illness or misadventure. He considers Rotary one of the most trusted and respected charities in the world.

Rotary Clubs are invited to find a need in their community that fits the criteria & make an      application to the Rotary Benevolent Society & be willing to match the grant dollar for dollar. For more information & how to make submissions go to:  http://rawcs.org.au/projects-2/rotary-australia-benevolent-society/dick-smith-matched-funding-grant/

Dick & Pippa Smith have donated over $4million to worthwhile projects from the sale of this aeroplane. Some other    recipients have been—The Wilberforce Award (for future young lead-ers), the Scouts, The Wayside Chapel, Weather Cam Research, the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society, Angel & Careflight & over 20 more charities.  Well done Bob     Cleland & thank you Dick & Pippa Smith.