They have hosted numerous ROMAC families, providing not only pastoral care but also genuine care and compassion.
Whether meeting families at the airport or farewelling them, often at all hours of the day and night, they ensured every arrival and departure was met with warmth, reassurance, and dignity. Each child has clearly held a special place in their hearts.
Their generosity has extended well beyond the expected. Sharon and Wayne have welcomed families into their home and even taken them on holidays to the Coromandel, creating moments of joy and normalcy during what can otherwise be a stressful and uncertain time.
Sharon has also provided ongoing pastoral care to families staying at Ronald McDonald House, offering practical support with hospital appointments, grocery shopping and ensuring families had appropriate clothing to keep warm.
Prior to joining the New Zealand ROMAC team, Sharon was a longstanding member of Inner Wheel. She formally joined ROMAC in 2016 as the region Secretary - a role she has carried out with unwavering commitment for 10 years.
She has provided meticulous administrative support to three Regional Chairs — Angela Bowie, Glenys Parton, and Peter Garnett. Her work has gone far beyond traditional secretarial duties, including the careful management and archiving of documents and photographs within the ROMAC Google Drive to ensure continuity, accessibility, and the preservation of institutional knowledge.
From 2016 through to 2020, Sharon and Wayne also generously opened their home as the venue for monthly ROMAC meetings. Their hospitality consistently exceeded expectations, providing refreshments and nibbles — creating not just a meeting space, but a welcoming and collegial environment for the committee.
Wayne, an active member of the Rotary Club of Remuera for 39 years, further extended his contribution to ROMAC by taking on the role of District 9920 ROMAC Representative in 2018. He has been highly active across the district in the Auckland region, promoting ROMAC at both club level and District Conferences, strengthening the awareness and engagement with ROMAC in the district.
Sharon and Wayne have been part of a club that has hosted more than 20 ROMAC children since 2016.
Among the most notable stories is that of Kevin, who arrived in New Zealand with a complex juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. His treatment required a large multidisciplinary surgical team and incurred significant costs.
Through the leadership and commitment of Sharon and Wayne, the Rotary Club of Remuera provided ongoing post treatment support for Kevin, who remained in New Zealand to complete his schooling and pursue tertiary education.
Throughout this journey, Sharon and Wayne have supported Kevin as if he were their own.
Today, as a confident and accomplished young man making meaningful contributions to the community, Kevin stands as one of New Zealand’s great ROMAC success stories. He has, in turn, become an ambassador for ROMAC, regularly attending District Conferences and speaking at club meetings, a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of the care and support he received.
Sharon and Wayne’s unwavering commitment, generosity, and compassion exemplify the very best of Rotary service. Their contribution to ROMAC New Zealand has been profound and enduring, leaving a legacy that will be felt for many years to come.
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.
Geoff Pownall once thought his Rotary journey was complete.
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.
