With Christmas almost here and the New Year shortly thereafter I am approaching the end of the first half of my year as DG. While it has been at times an exhausting 6 months it has also been a very rewarding six months. With Christmas almost here and the New Year shortly thereafter I am approaching the end of the first half of my year as DG. While it has been at times an exhausting 6 months it has also been a very rewarding six months. 
An article from Katrina Flinn, Rotary Club of Hawthorn
When people are at their most vulnerable, small acts of care can have a powerful impact. Rotary Hawthorn, working with the local community, is supporting adult mental health inpatients at Upton House, Box Hill through practical wellbeing initiatives. From movement and music programs to cooking classes and providing essential personal care items, this Rotary-led project is helping patients build confidence, skills and dignity during recovery.
An article from Robert Fava, Rotary Club of WerribeeNow in its third year, Werribee Rotary's grants programme has awarded seven community groups $3,000 each, recognising local organisations making a real difference across Wyndham.
An article from Bryan Goodwin, Rotary Club of Altona CityA new District 9800 template for “Excellence in Education Awards” can now be downloaded from the District 9800 website from the Vocational page. This is based on recent awards events run by Rotary Clubs of Altona City and Richmond.
An article from Melina Caccetta, Rotary Club of Flemington Kensington
In November 2025, the Rotary Club of Flemington Kensington officially launched its Food and Friends dinner project. With invaluable support from Moonee Valley City Council, LIFE Church Melbourne, and staff at the Djerring Hub, a total of 160 meals were prepared and served by Rotarian and community volunteers. This event marked the beginning of a series of dinners designed to support those in need.
On behalf of all Rotarians in District 9800, we remember those in the Jewish Community of Australia and all those affected by the tragic terrorist shootings at Bondi Beach in Sydney. We mourn the lives lost, stand with the injured and traumatised, and share in the grief of families and friends.Rotary is founded on the values of peace, compassion and service to humanity. At this time of sorrow, we reaffirm our solidarity with all communities facing hatred and violence, and our commitment to building understanding, respect and peace.
May the memories of those lost be a source of comfort to all who grieve, and may healing and unity prevail.
(with thanks to Richard Blakeman, Rotary Club of Glenferrie)
As I come to the end of my 5th month as District Governor of this amazing District, the pace is still constant as I brought up my total clubs visited to 49 of our 61. As has been the case in previous months these visit continue to inform and inspire me and I am so pleased to see that my message of creating belonging and collaboration being so well accepted.Looking for past stories
