DIK Newsletter
Welcome to 2025!
Donations in Kind will resume operations on January 28th.
The upcoming months are already looking busy, with several inquiries from late last year regarding container shipments.
We already have several school pickup requests scheduled, along with numerous medical aid collections. As costs continue to rise across the board, DiK is no exception. As a result, we will need to begin charging for item collections. However, we will strive to keep these charges affordable for the donating schools, ensuring that our solution remains a cost-effective and environmentally responsible alternative to landfill disposal. Costs will be based on metro or the occasional regional collection and will be per truck or van load.
Team Update:
In case you missed it, Andy, our dedicated forklift driver for the past 13 years, has decided to step down and pursue a quieter life. His departure will leave a gap, particularly on Thursdays. Fortunately, five members of our Tuesday team recently obtained their forklift licenses, and along with Frank, they will help meet some of our operational needs.
If you know anyone with a forklift license who might be interested in helping out on Thursdays, please let Colleen know.
colleen@rotarydik.org /0418551551
Partners:
Dollar Curtains and Blinds in Kilsyth have been incredible and frequent donors of curtain material over the years.
Late last year you may have seen on the news the dreadful fire in Kilsyth that has been declared suspicious by detectives. The fire caused extensive damage to the premises, fortunately no one was inside at the time and the investigation remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with their team during this difficult time as they work to rebuild.
December Toy Offer:
In October, DiK was presented with an incredible opportunity to purchase 20 pallets of toys at a significantly discounted rate. This marked a first for DiK in supporting Rotary Club Christmas initiatives by offering a pallet of toys, valued at $13,500, for well under $1,000.
The condition of this offer was that the toys must remain in Australia, they were not to be used as raffle items or to be sold but to be given to children in need.
Here is how some clubs took the opportunity to their communities
Rotary Club of Berwick:
- Casey North Community Information and Support Services
- Windermere Child and Family Services
Rotar Club of Balwyn:

- 35% to Anglicare Preston;
- 30% to Anglicare Epping;
- 15% to Boroondara Community Outreach, via RC Balwyn;
- 10% to Berry Street;
- 10% to Bluebird Foundation (a group that works in Corio, Geelong, which is a low-income suburb). They largely provide musical training to children who are interested;
Rotary Club of Cranbourne:
- Community Information & Support Cranbourne
- Transit Narre Warren
- Orange Door
Future offers of toys may become available. DiK will first notify DiK Inc Member Clubs, followed by non-member Clubs if there are any excess items.
Things to remember:
DIK does not accept second-hand clothes or shoes. Please donate these items to your local opportunity shops.
- Sending items overseas: For co-shared container space, payment must be made at the time of drop-off at the warehouse. We accept Credit Card (excluding Amex) and Direct Debit. Cost is $400 per cubic meter. Or part thereof.
All items must be packed securely to safe passage. DiK takes no responsibility for items damaged in transit.
- Warehouse safety requirements: Entry to the warehouse is strictly subject to industry-standard safety protocols, which are non-negotiable:
- Sign in prior to entry.
- Wear a hi-vis vest or hi-vis top.
- Closed-toe shoes must be worn at all times.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in being asked to leave. We appreciate your understanding.
To keep up to date with what’s happening at DiK follow us on
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We look forward to welcoming you in 2025
Colleen d’Offay
Manager -Donations in Kind