Since 1985, the eradication of polio has been Rotary’s most significant project. And it’s nearly there. The number of cases on the world over the following thirty-two years has declined from in excess of 300,000 world-wide to just 11 reported cases this year in two countries. But as long as the wild polio virus as survives anywhere in the world, anyone is at risk including the unvaccinated in countries such as Australia.

Without full funding and political commitment from governments around the world, this paralyzing disease could return to previously polio-free countries, putting children everywhere at risk.

World Polio Day is Tuesday (OCt. 24) and the Rotary Club of Yea will observe the day with two events. The Club’/s meeting on Thursday will be an official event of the World’s Greatest Meal project initiated by Rotary in Cairns and London to create awareness about polio and raise funds for its eradication. And every dollar raised is matched two for one by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

And on Friday, there will be a sausage sizzle outside Foodworks from 12 Noon until 2pm. It’s free – but contributions made by the public are also matched by the Gates Foundation.

Rotary has contributed more than $2 billion to the eradication of polio including in excess of $10,000 from the Rotary Club of Yea. Members of the Rotary Club of Yea are among millions reaching out on World Polio Day to raise awareness, funds and support to end polio – and end it forever.

– David Anderson