Inner Wheel Service Clubs District A70 has launched a drive for new members to join one of its five South Australian clubs.

^{Inner Wheel District A70 Chair Cathie Rumbelow (R) with Her Excellency Hon Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, and Inner Wheel SA Patron. Image: Michael Errey.}

The drive has been made possible through a Grant for Seniors from Office for Ageing Well and is part of a series of activities and special events celebrating Inner Wheel’s 100-Year Anniversary.

This women-only organisation provides opportunities to share friendship and a passion for community service while acting for lasting change. Established on 10 January 1924 in Manchester, UK, by Mrs Margarette Golding, the wife of a Manchester Rotarian, there are now 103,000 members in 100 countries.

In South Australia, Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, is Patron.

An Executive Committee governs the five clubs of District A70: The Adelaide Hills, Tea Tree Gully, Holdfast Marion, North East Sunset, and Mobilong and surrounding areas.

^{Ready to walk to help raise funds for Cord Blood Research.}

Inner Wheel District A70 Chair, Cathie Rumbelow, said the grant would be used to purchase a portable public address system.

“Our members, who are experienced Inner Wheel guest speakers, will present at various women’s meetings across the state encouraging new members to join. We are also complementing the membership drive by printing information brochures and posters and placing Facebook ads.

“Many of our members are older women for whom Inner Wheel provides friendship and a sense of wellbeing. At monthly meetings, usually over a meal, they discuss a range of matters such as potential fun activities, interesting guest speakers, and future events and outings. Close friendships are made, and support is available when needed,” said Cathie.

Inner Wheel is not primarily a fundraising organisation, but small donations are collected through raffles, merchandise sales and occasional events.

However, since 2000, Australian Inner Wheel clubs have raised $3.6 million dollars and provided 69 grants for Cord Blood Research Programs. Many of these grants have gone to South Australian researchers.

If you are interested in joining or would like to hear more, email the District Secretary on iwdistricta70@gmail.com