As April draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a month filled with inspiration, new beginnings, and the unmistakable energy of Rotarians in action. From leadership development to international connections, April reminded me just how vibrant and magical our Rotary family truly is. As April draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a month filled with inspiration, new beginnings, and the unmistakable energy of Rotarians in action. From leadership development to international connections, April reminded me just how vibrant and magical our Rotary family truly is. 
Atop the 100 Steps of Federation at Truganina Park, watched over by the “Time Beacon” artwork by Cameron Robbins, Rotary Altona City’s Hobsons Bay Millennium Time Capsule lay buried for 25 years, safely holding messages from over 12,000 people. During the last 18 months, a team from Rotary Altona City and the Hobsons Bay Council worked collaboratively to open the capsule and re-connect with the 30 schools and contributors involved 25 years ago.
If you missed the Rotary SAFE Families MEGA-Meeting via Zoom on 7 March, you missed a great presentation from speakers highlighting the issue of family violence. Fortunately, the MEGA-Meeting was recorded and Rotary SAFE Families is happy to share the event via the YouTube link. The hour-long broadcast attracted more than 200 people from at least 48 countries, including Kosovo, Peru, Mongolia, Timor Leste, Tunisia, Mexico, Finland, India, USA and a number African nations.
In early 2025, Rotary Chadstone East Malvern (RCEM) members Paul Rake, Tania Aisbett, Kathryn O'Connor & friend of the club Sue Perriman headed to Cambodia for two weeks to continue the ongoing volunteer works in collaboration with Balwyn Rotary and Rotary Foundation. This recent trip was to finalise the completion of a three-year project: 307 washroom toilet facilities in the village of Tapoeur.
For over 37 years Rotary has been a significant cause for good in Flemington and Kensington. In recent years, members have operated the Op Shop, providing a focus on recycling and repurposing and providing goods at a low cost to the community. Additionally, funds raised have supported Mental Health First Aid training programs, youth driver safety education, the L2P project with MVCC and research into mental health for children. 
Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC) is the Rotary Zone 8 project dedicated to providing life-saving and dignity-restoring medical treatment to children from 12 countries in our region. Run entirely by volunteers, ROMAC ensures 100% of donations go directly to patient care—our administrative costs are covered by investment income. It supports children and families from our island neighbours across Oceania who cannot access the medical treatment they need in their home countries.
District 9800 is proud to be a valued partner and sponsor of Victoria RESCA and happy to advise that the 2025 Award nominations are now open. The organisers are keen to promote the event as widely as possible to encourage and invite as many nominations from all the emergency services agencies as possible.
With three-quarters of the Rotary year already behind us, it’s inspiring to see the energy, passion, and commitment of Rotarians across our District. Your dedication to service continues to create an impact both locally and internationally.
It is with great pleasure that I announce the formal appointment of Claire Davison as District Governor for Rotary District 9800 in 2027-2028. Claire’s passion for service, strategic mindset, and dedication to making a lasting impact—both locally and globally—make her an outstanding choice for this role.
Rotary’s Council on Resolutions and Council on Legislation give Rotary members a voice in how our organisation is governed. Each Rotary district chooses a representative for a three-year term. They represent their districts at three meetings of the Council on Resolutions and at the Council on Legislation during their term.
Rotary is great at attracting new members, but keeping them engaged is another challenge. District Governor Michael Lapiña's vision for 2024-25 is to make Rotary an irresistible experience, ensuring new and existing members feel a deep sense of belonging.
The Challenge:
While service projects attract members, many leave due to a lack of personal connection. Club Service plays a crucial role in fostering friendships, professional growth, and fun—all key to retention.
District 9800 is proud to launch an exciting new initiative aimed at fostering peace, strengthening relationships with schools and councils, and increasing Rotary’s visibility in our communities. This initiative will support clubs in installing Peace Poles in prominent community locations such as schools, parks, and council spaces—helping to spread the message of peace and build meaningful partnerships.
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