Living dolls: Quota International Geelong president Rosemary Stewart and regular Doll, Teddy and Craft Show exhibitor Judith McLean with some items set for display.
By John Van Klaveren
MOST readers will be familiar with the local service clubs and the work they do – Rotary, Apex, Zonta and Lions.
However, a less-well-known group is working away quietly in the background.
It’s Quota International Geelong, primarily a women’s service club but open to men as well.
President Rosemary Stewart said the club’s profile probably reflected a reticence for self-promotion.
“Quota is not as well known because we haven’t promoted ourselves as widely but the Geelong club has donated more than $5000 a year for the 52 years it has been in existence.”
Rosemary said the club preferred to focus on the community although it did contribute to an international project.
“We have several fundraisers each year and decide as a club which charity will receive the funds from that event,” she explained.
Among the fundraisers are a sausage sizzle, a trivia night and the next event, the 20th annual Geelong Doll, Teddy and Craft show, on June 16.
The Doll, Teddy and Craft Show will again pack Geelong West Town Hall with more than 50 stalls of dolls, teddies, all their accessories, jewellery, knitting and card making.
Last year more than 500 craft enthusiasts from around the state flocked to the show, complete with its own “doll doctor”.
The proceeds of the show will go to Samaritan House, a new not-for-profit community foundation offering 12 beds to homeless men nightly.
Quota has helped organisations including Kids plus, SCOPE, Anam Cara House, Glastonbury Family Support Services, Cottage by the Sea, Foundation 61, Headspace, Andrew Love Centre and Time for Youth.
“We’re just a group of people who care for each other and the community while having some fun,” Rosemary said.
“We have only 11 members and several are retired, so we’re looking at opening it up and inviting younger members.
“Quota gives members the opportunity to travel to regional and international meetings and conventions. Six of us will attend an international leadership convention in Hawaii in July.”
Rosemary said anyone wanting more information should phone her on 0411 093 342 or visit www.quotainternational.org.
