How we work

Built on volunteers and Rotary values

100% of donations to patient care

We're completely volunteer-run with no paid staff.

Administration costs are covered separately, so every dollar you donate goes straight to helping children access the surgery they desperately need.

35+ years of impact

Since 1988, we've helped more than 570 children receive life saving treatment across Oceania.

Our Rotary network connects families with world-class medical teams and compassionate host families throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Anita with a patient family posing for a photo
ROMAC Operations Director Richard Woodburn, with Melenaite and her mother Michelle, and Anita Robinson, Eastern Region Chair.
Our team

Our volunteer network

From medical professionals to host families, more than 200 volunteers make each child's journey possible.

Medical coordinators and advisors

Doctors and nurses assess needs and coordinate hospital care for each child's treatment.

Regional coordinators and case managers

Volunteers guide families through the process and provide support from arrival to recovery.

Host families and support networks

People welcome children and their carers into their homes during treatment and recovery.

Rotary partners and fundraisers

Rotary members and community volunteers raise funds and manage resources for patient care.

Awarding medal Bryan Mason and Wife
ROMAC Life Member Bryan Mason, with his wife Lyn Mason and Ian Riseley, President of Rotary International.
Patrons and Ambassadors

Leaders supporting our mission

From South Australia's Governor to former patients, these leaders help us reach more children and inspire wider support.

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC
& Mr Rod Bunten

Patrons, ROMAC Central Region

Rosie Lotawa

Patrons, ROMAC Central Region

Ian Risely

Ian H.S. Riseley is an Australian accountant and businessman. From 2017 to 2018, he was the President of Rotary International. Risely is seen here presenting Lyn Mason, the wife of Bryan Mason (left), with a Paul Harris Fellow for her support of ROMAC.

Volunteers

Why people volunteer with ROMAC

Our volunteers come from all walks of life, united by the desire to make a meaningful difference. Here's what being part of ROMAC means to them.

Group of children
Bruce Morrison

 North Harbour Rotary

"Helping with ROMAC has helped to fill a void in my life. However the words 'satisfying' and 'gratifying' are not appropriate."
"It is a reality check when you realise how sick the children are and you do live through their surgery with a nervous anticipation.  
"There is delight as you take them out and realise how their well-being has improved."

Anita at a fundraising event
Anita Robinson

Chair Eastern Region

"Organising a child’s treatment can be challenging but the rewards are invaluable"
"Bringing together doctors, hospitals and host families requires teamwork, dedication and heart. I am fortunate to have such caring and committed people in my team.
"Not everything always goes to plan and sometimes difficult decisions must be made but seeing it all come together to transform a child’s life is incredibly satisfying."