Since 2018, Rotary Hawthorn has been a member of the Timor Rotary WASH Consortium, a collaborative effort led by the Rotary Club of Camberwell and including several local Rotary clubs along with the host Timor-Leste Club, Rotary Club of Lafeak.
Through Global Grant GG2456718, the Consortium is delivering clean water and sanitation infrastructure to remote mountain communities across eastern Timor-Leste.
The consortium was formed with a clear mission: to provide clean water and sanitation facilities, including training, to communities in remote areas of eastern Timor-Leste where access to clean water remains a significant challenge. In remote regions, women and children typically carry water to homes and schools, often requiring several hours of walking to reach water sources.
Our Initial Impact (2018-2020)
The first phase of our consortium's work focused on building four toilet buildings and installing 29 water tanks while also providing comprehensive WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) training in schools throughout remote villages in Baguia.
In October 2019, members from Rotary Hawthorn joined colleagues from the Rotary Club of Camberwell on a working party to Baguia. This trip allowed us to research and identify the most pressing needs of the area’s schools and villages, which informed our subsequent efforts.
A key aspect of the approach has been to serve as providers and facilitators, equipping local schools and community groups with the skills needed to build toilets and install water tanks.
Recent Progress
The consortium's most recent update from November 2024 highlighted significant progress made under the current Global Grant:
• Installed 10 water tanks and constructed two toilet blocks, representing 50% completion of the project objectives.
• Hands-on construction assistance for a local contractor building a toilet block at Loiholihoo Primary School in Viqueque District.
• Finalised of WASH training logistics with a local medical doctor in the two schools where toilets were constructed.
• Inspected previously completed water tanks and toilets to ensure functionality, proper usage, and maintenance.
Strategic meetings with project partners, including Timor Varde (sponsored by the UNDP), Timor Roofing and Training company, and leaders from five different villages.
Looking to the FutureA promising development has emerged through connections with Timor Roofing and Training Lda, a steel rolling mill and training facility initially established by three Melbourne-based Rotary Clubs. The Don Bosco Organisation owns and operates the facility, which has identified a similar need for clean water in schools in Baucau city, Timor-Leste's second-largest population centre.
Initial inquiries suggest as many as 60 schools in Baucau may lack access to clean water. The Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT) has confirmed that 'there does indeed appear to be a need for water in many schools throughout Baucau,' validating the potential for intervention in this area.
Our Commitment
Hawthorn has financially contributed to the project since 2018, and we are exploring ways to contribute meaningfully to future initiatives, particularly as the consortium considers expanding its efforts to address water needs in Baucau schools.
Clean water access transforms communities by improving health, enabling education, and freeing time for children to sleep and study rather than carrying water. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Timor Rotary WASH Consortium as it builds on its successes and explores new opportunities to create lasting change in Timor-Leste.