However, encouraged by his mentor to explore other Rotary programmes, he attended an annual conference where he witnessed a moving presentation about Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC).
It captured his heart, and he has never looked back.
A Rotarian since 1996, Geoff (pictured with past ROMAC Chair Glenys Parton) joined ROMAC in 2010. Since then, he has contributed in countless ways — from logistics and administration to personally escorting a Timorese family from Bali to New Zealand for treatment.
A regular donor to ROMAC and based in Auckland, Geoff has been a constant presence at airport meet and greets and farewells, warmly welcoming, supporting and farewelling patients and their guardians, always with the ROMAC banner in hand.
He is a thoughtful, solutions-driven leader who sees challenges as opportunities for improvement. He was instrumental in securing access to free parking vouchers at Auckland International Airport, for host members on pick-ups and drop-offs, and in facilitating a concierge service to help families navigate to and from airside gates on arrival and departure.
Geoff originally held the role of the New Zealand Administrator — organising the logistics of passports, visas and travel — and for the last decade has been our Treasurer, responsible for preparing monthly financial reports and providing guidance to the New Zealand team on policy processes and financial stewardship.
He also seamlessly introduced the Xero accounting system to ROMAC New Zealand, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting to meet organisational needs. Geoff developed the programme outputs to allow the team to code, track, monitor, and report costs by patient, including medical, accommodation, and logistical expenses.
One of Geoff’s defining attributes is that he develops well-considered ideas and does not stop until they are fully implemented and working effectively.
Drawing on his extensive experience in governance and as a professional director, Geoff also established and continues to administer the charitable trust under which ROMAC New Zealand is registered.
A dedicated Rotarian, Geoff has served on the board of the Takapuna Rotary Club for many years, mentors young Rotarians, and has played a key role in securing and managing four global grants for ROMAC, as well as additional grants initiated through his club to support ROMAC’s work.
He also supports Hearts4Kids, often returning from missions in Fiji with referrals for patients requiring urgent and complex care through ROMAC.
Geoff makes himself available to present for ROMAC at Rotary clubs across the country and at district conferences, sharing stories of hope and impact. He never misses an opportunity, whether travelling for business or on holiday, to connect with a local Rotary Club and promote the work of ROMAC.
Over the years, he has been an unwavering support to five Regional Chairs — Geoff Dainty, Eric Horne, Angela Bowey, Glenys Parton, and currently Peter Garnett.
Along with his biggest supporter, wife Bev, many will know that Geoff’s selfless volunteer service extends far beyond ROMAC. He is involved in numerous community projects, including the Takapuna Abilities Group and its recycling centre, and community development and arts-based projects, alongside his continued work with Hearts4Kids.
He has become a “kaumātua” (Maori for “respected elder”) for the ROMAC organisation in both New Zealand and Australia. His extensive institutional knowledge, experience, and generosity with his time continue to be of immense value, not only to ROMAC but also to the wider not-for-profit community in which ROMAC operates.
His expertise in governance has been invaluable in guiding organisations through recent legislative changes under the Incorporated Societies Act and the consequent rewriting of constitutions.
Geoff has often said, “I would spend twice as much time on ROMAC and Rotary, if I had the time to do it.” This sentiment perfectly captures his generosity, humility, and passion for service.
Geoff is a true ambassador for ROMAC and epitomises the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
For more than 15 years of continuous dedication, leadership, and service to ROMAC, and for his unwavering commitment to the children and families of Oceania in need, Geoff Pownall is most deserving of this Lifetime Recognition Award for Service to ROMAC.
Two leading New Zealand ROMAC supporters have received lifetime recognition awards.
Dr Eric Horne has been a Rotarian since December 1971, an active member for almost 50 years and an Honorary member in more recent years.
Sharon and her husband Wayne have made an extraordinary contribution to ROMAC for more than a decade.
ROMAC’s Central Region Committee is planning support arrangements for 12-year-old Miliana from Vanuatu, who will be treated at Adelaide Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
Sydney Rotary clubs are combining for a Nepean River cruise on Sunday 17 May to celebrate Lei Day and support ROMAC.
ROMAC was honoured to be part of the combined Rotary District 9660 and 9685 Conference — sharing stories that reflect the hope, courage, and life-changing impact at the heart of our work.
More than 350 Rotarians from three districts had an opportunity to learn more about ROMAC last month.
The Acting Chair role, together with the Operations Director role, continues to keep me busy.
This is my first newsletter as the Acting ROMAC Chair and what a busy time the last month has been.
An anonymous repeat donor has thanked ROMAC for the gift we sent in appreciation.
ROMAC shared life saving stories at the District 9675 Conference, strengthening community support to continue transforming children's lives.
Sunshine Coast Rotary clubs recently gathered for their annual Trivia Challenge, raising over $9,000 for ROMAC.
We are delighted to welcome Anita Binns, who has recently joined ROMAC as our volunteer HR Co-ordinator.
Glenys Parton, ROMAC Chair, announces a leadership change.
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Sight is vital to a child’s well-being and future. This Timor-Leste mother pays tribute to those who helped her son regain his and expresses her heartfelt gratitude.
ROMAC relies on the dedication of many volunteers, together with the ongoing support of Rotary clubs. Rockhampton South Rotary Club was recently recognised for their support of ROMAC.
Antonio sustained a traumatic eye injury after being struck by a ball while playing football with friends.
The latest on the beneficial collaboration between ACT Health and ROMAC.
ROMAC Chair Glenys Parton's end of 2025 message.
ROMAC confirmed the recipients of the 2024–25 volunteer recognition awards.
Maggie Alexander's contribution to ROMAC over the past 8 years was recognised at the ROMAC AGM.
Whether you volunteer, donate, or spread the word, your contribution brings a child closer to life changing surgery.
