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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Following a meeting between the Sri Lankan Minister for Health, Senake Ameresinghe and Pubudu De Goysa from Rotary Colombo, Dr Harsha Gunasekara, President of the National Stroke Association, and PP Peter Cribb of Flemington Kensington Rotary, a partnership project was planned, with the assistance of RARE SA and Rotary Donations in Kind, to deliver medical equipment to fit-out stroke units in nine Sri Lankan hospitals.
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.
Hosted by Australian National University and University of Queensland, assisted by Rotary Australia, the NYSF is a science and technology chance of a lifetime for 460 young people from across Australia who are immersed in STEM, the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. Simeon, a student at Mount Alexander College in Flemington travelled to the Canberra event representing Rotary Flemington Kensington and Charlotte, a student at Penleigh and Essendon Grammar chose to travel to Brisbane where she was most interested in the biology sessions.
In November 2024, the Rotary Club of Chadstone/East Malvern held its third “Sleeping Out Rough for the Homeless” event. Past President, Michele Kennedy, once again organised this event and each year we have managed to raise more money than the previous year.. Thanks to our sponsors – and the adventurous sleepers and their sponsors we raised a record $35,681.00. At a special dinner on 26 February, the proceeds from the event were donated to South Port Housing (SPHG).
“Perfect in every way" is how Rochester’s ‘Songs at the Silos’ is being described. Perfect weather, perfect location and perfect performers. Over 500 people enjoyed a wonderful night of opera and musical theatre performed by artists from Opera Australia and a local talent, Evie Scoble. Rochester was thrilled and privileged to enjoy the talents of Adam Millar, Eleanor Blythman, Karen van Spall and DG Michael Lapina: Alex and Mikey Lapina also sang in the encore and Kew Rotarian, Jonathan Shepherd was the MC.
Atop the 100 Steps of Federation at Truganina Park, watched over by the “Time Beacon” artwork (Cameron Robbins), Rotary Altona City’s Hobsons Bay Millennium Time Capsule lay buried for 25 years, safely holding the messages from over 12,000 people. The Time Capsule will be exhibited during the Hobsons Bay Heritage Festival, which has the theme “Unearthed.”
On 22 February, the Rotary Club of Chadstone/East Malvern once again provided the catering for the Melbourne Henley Regatta. Despite the sweltering heat, 18 members of the Club turned up to load the equipment, set up the marquees, tables, BBQs and cook up a storm for the participants and onlookers at this amazing event.
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.
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.
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.
In a heartwarming display of community support and the power of Rotary, the Rotary Club of Melton Valley has stepped up to enhance the educational experience of students at Toolern Vale Primary School.
District 9800 is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for young Rotarians and Rotaractors to grow as leaders and experience the power of Rotary on a global and national scale.
As February comes to a close, we reflect on a month dedicated to Peace and Conflict Resolution and the incredible work being done across our District. We continue to seek applicants for the prestigious Peace Fellowships—if you know someone passionate about fostering peace, now is the time to encourage them to apply. To give our nominees the best possible chance of success, we are grateful for the support of PDG Murray Verso and the committee, who are working to help prepare and guide candidates through the application process. Refer to their story below for more information.
Rotary's monthly themes are meant to highlight the wide range of Rotary's good work and give clubs some suggestions, timing and guidance for their programs and activities. Thanks to the work of Cath Stahel of Balwyn Rotary, District 9800 has its own monthly graphic. The following is a list of the themes. There are a number of other sources of graphics (including on myrotary.org
Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) is a 12-month international experience for 16 year olds providing cultural, social, educational and language immersion in a safe, supportive home hosting environment. Each year, hundreds of teenagers from countries across the globe take up the offer of the adventure of a lifetime where they develop independence, life skills and lifelong friendships.
The Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour D9800 in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Canal Estate D9110, Lagos, Nigeria, joined forces to provide school writing materials for kids in a local school in Okata in Lagos, unlocking words and giving children the joy of reading.
Rotary Central Melbourne’s (RCM) 2024 Silk Miller Scholar, acting Senior Sergeant Steve Turner’s work has been recognised at the National Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards. Steve’s project resulted in the team receiving a silver award, one of nine awards presented by Federal-Attorney General, Hon. Mark Dreyfus KC MP, at a ceremony held in Parliament House, Canberra on 12 November 2024.
From humble beginnings, the Rotary Overseas Repurposed/Relocated Playgrounds (RORP) project has given children’s playgrounds no longer needed in Australia a second life. Thanks to the tireless efforts of passionate Rotarians and friends, what started as a small initiative – where Rotary teams physically dismantling playgrounds in local municipalities – has now grown into an industry-recognised enterprise.
Applications for 2026 Rotary Peace Fellowships are now open until May 15, 2025.
District 9800 has produced one or more peace fellows every year, except one, since the program began in 2002. We invite you and your fellow club members to find qualified candidates so that our district’s world beating record can be maintained. This year, The Rotary Foundation will award up to 50 fellowships for master’s degrees and up to 80 fellowships for professional development certificates at premier universities — including at our newest Rotary Peace Centre in Istanbul.
Discover the transformative power of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) with Reimagine Belonging, the official podcast of Rotary District 9800.
Creating a sense of belonging from the moment a prospective member expresses interest in joining a Club is key to helping them become a long-term member.
Happy New Year, Rotary Family! As we step into 2025, let’s build on the energy and passion we’ve created together. This is our time to grow, to connect, and to make every moment count.
Rotary SAFE Families, created by Dorothy Gilmour, President of Rotary, has become a global peace project, providing its resources to Rotary Clubs around the world in its endeavours to prevent family violence.
The Melbourne Celtic Festival, Port Phillip Rotary’s flagship event, heads into its fourth year with a stacked local and international lineup across three indoor stages and one charming garden stage at the iconic Mission to Seafarers Victoria, in the heart of the city. The event which took out a Rotary District 9800 Community Service Award in 2024 consists of 11 hours of entertainment on St Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17 from 12pm – 11pm. The Melbourne Celtic Festival aims to unite through the power of Celtic music, dance, food and great Craic!
If you are poor and uneducated in Myanmar your prospects for employment and a chance to improve your life are zero. Even worse than that, you can be preyed upon by child traffickers for the purposes of organ theft! Through the support of Essendon Rotary and a Rotary District Foundation Grant, some children from a Yangon slum will get the opportunity to learn practical skills leading to gainful employment.
How would you feel if your daughter or granddaughter had to miss school during menstruation due to inadequate facilities? Thanks to twelve new menstrual health management (MHM) toilets now under construction in a Cambodian Kampong, girls will be able to attend school whilst mentruating. Supported by a District Grant from the Rotary Foundation, the Rotary Club of Camberwell has partnered with the Running Water Project Cambodia to deliver these facilities.
Helen Keller’s words: Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much perfectly capture the essence of Rotary’s recent involvement in a Rotary International Global Grant in Cambodia. By installing WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure and leading educational workshops in 11 rural schools in Siem Reap province, so much has been done to make a lasting impact on over 5,000 students and community members!
As we draw closer to the end of the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past month and all that we've achieved together through the Magic of Rotary. December has been a whirlwind of activity, celebration, and collaboration—a fitting conclusion to an incredible year.
On 17 December, the people of Vanuatu were struck by a devastating earthquake that has left widespread destruction in its wake. Homes have been destroyed, communities disrupted, and countless individuals and families face a long road to recovery. In times of crisis, Rotary’s global network of compassion and action shines brightest, and District 9800 is stepping up to provide support to those impacted.
This story began a few years ago when Isaiah Lahai joined the Rotary Club of Glenferrie. Isaiah has an amazing story of survival: a refugee from Sierra Leone due to civil war; 14 years in five camps in Guinea; then making his way to Australia. Since arriving in Australia, he has supported his community back in Sierra Leone and particularly the Aladura Primary School in Buedu: the value of education in improving the lives of young people cannot be underestimated. Buedu is in a remote area in the far east of Sierra Leone near the border with Liberia.
Small Comforts from Community is a collaboration of Clubs within Rotary District 9800: a social impact project the success of which is reflected in the fact that this initiative has recently expanded. In addition to providing care bags and clothing to The Alfred and Upton House (Eastern Health), we now also distribute care bags to patients at the Royal Melbourne and St Vincent’s Hospitals. Over 1,500 care packs are provided each year to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, people being admitted to mental health wards in our local hospitals.
Please be aware that Rotary Club and District officials will never ask you to purchase gift cards via email or text, especially in an unexpected or secret request with instructions to call and verify. Rotary members should continue to exercise caution: Disregard any suspicious message that offers money, requests money, or asks for your personal information. Avoid opening attachments or following links in suspicious messages
Rotary Central Melbourne again held their successful Paul Harris Breakfast Foundation event for nearly 35 years and this year's on 12 November was not different. President Rhys welcomed all guests with a special mention of guests from Victoria Police Legacy: Chair Kate O’Neill and Community Engagement Coordinator Bob Raaymakers, and highlighted the partnership between Rotary Central Melbourne (RCM), Victoria Police Legacy (VPL) and World of Difference and the second Legatee Cambodian Tour, currently underway. He also reminded of the purpose of this marquee annual event, hosted by RCM: to raise funds for The Rotary Foundation.
In October, Rotary Flemington Kensington was delighted to attend this year’s Victorian Senior of the Year Awards at Government House. Past President Peter Cribb was nominated and shortlisted for an award. He received the Victorian Senior - COTA Award: it was a delight to know that Peter was recognised for his many years of volunteer service and his inspiring leadership of so many Rotary programs and activities.
Held across Australia, in partnership with Rotary, RYDA supports teachers on the journey as they provide their students with the tools and understanding they need to see themselves as active, responsible road citizens. RYDA provides students with the tools, habits and motivation to take action and stay safe on our roads as both drivers and passengers throughout their lives. In District 9800, Rotary Flemington Kensington has sponsored 125 students from a local secondary school to participate in the program.
Helen Keller’s words ring loud and clear with the Rotary Club of Keilor East and Rotary Passport Melbourne!! Joined by the Rotary Clubs of Melbourne, Balwyn and with support from Rotary District 9800 and The Rotary Foundation, two District International Grants are being implemented in Siem Reap Cambodia. Each grant is supporting the construction of WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) infrastructure at four rural schools, bringing clean water and sanitation solutions to more than 3,000 students and surrounding community members!
November has been a dynamic month for District 9800, with inspiring events and impactful initiatives continuing to shape our Rotary year. Each interaction and milestone has further highlighted the passion and dedication that defines our district. Here’s a look at some of the key activities and updates this month:
Exciting news! Registration for the Multi District Impact Summit are now LIVE, and you won’t want to miss out! This event is set to be an inspiring gathering of Rotary minds, all coming together to make a greater impact. Secure your spot today at rotaryimpactsummit.org!
Exciting news! Registration for the Multi District Impact Summit are now LIVE, and you won’t want to miss out! This event is set to be an inspiring gathering of Rotary minds, all coming together to make a greater impact. Secure your spot today at rotaryimpactsummit.org!
A generation ago, poliomyelitis was a feared disease. paralysing hundreds of thousands of children every year. Most countries have now eliminated the disease, and our generation has the chance to eradicate it entirely.
October 24 is World Polio Day, a time for Rotary members and public health advocates to promote the progress made so far towards a polio free world, and to talk about the actions needed to end polio for good.
Chronic teacher shortages, underfunding and troubled students are increasing the pressure on an overextended workforce, so the 2024 Hobsons Bay Rotary Education Awards, organised by Rotary Altona City, have never been more timely. These awards honour those who go beyond their remit to make a difference to the lives of students and colleagues.
In a partnership with Cabanatuan City Rotary, Werribee Rotary completed two productive projects in the Philippines. In September 2024 a very successful WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene) project was completed at the Ibona Elementary School at Dingalan, on the east coast of Luzon. The school is in a low-income village area, with 600 children and 19 classrooms. As the school's piped water supply system was no longer operational and the childred needed to carry buckets of water to their classroom each day to flush the toilet in the small 'comfort room' at the rear of their classroom, Cabanatuan City RC had proposed a WASH Project to ensure safe and clean piped water.
November has been a dynamic month for District 9800, filled with inspiring events, impactful initiatives, and moments of connection. Each visit, event, and conversation reinforces the passion and dedication that define our district. Nina, Alex, and I are grateful for the warm welcomes we’ve received during club visits, and I’m continually inspired by the energy and creativity of Rotarians across our community.
Rotary’s long legacy is peppered with important milestones and seasons. One to be celebrated is our Rotary Port Philip and former Melbourne South member and treasure, Joan Daniels. Joan’s husband joined Rotary in 1977 and died shortly thereafter. However, her connection to Rotary remained.
Thirty years ago, the Lions Club of Essendon organised the first "I Love Australia" breakfast to recognise Australia Day and to promote the Made in Australia campaign. When the local Lions Club were seeking to hand over the management of the event, the Rotary Club of Essendon North decided to continue this iconic event in the City of Moonee Valley calendar.
Garden DesignFest is a biennial fundraising event organised by the Rotary Clubs of Kew and Brighton North, featuring the work of professional garden designers in an open garden format. On Saturday, November 16thand Sunday November 17th, gardens across Melbourne and on the Mornington Peninsula will be open from 10.00am until 5.00pm.
As the Rotary Club of Yarraville prepares for its fourth annual Acknowledgement Day on January 26th, 2025, we invite all Australians to come together in unity and purpose. This day is an opportunity to celebrate our shared commitment to moving forward together while honouring the rich cultural heritage of the First Peoples of this land, including the Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung peoples, who have nurtured and cared for this country for thousands of years.
Recently, Parliament House in Canberra hosted a gala dinner to celebrate the beginnings of National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) 40 years ago. Alumni, past Rotary District Chairs and politicians attended the event where Governor General Sam Mostyn spoke of the organisation, its importance and the achievements of its alumni.
Well, Mother Nature still finds ways to surprise us, doesn't she? ‘A Winter Wonderland’ in September wasn't on our Bingo card, but Castlemaine turned it on for us anyway.
Walk with Us in October to raise money for the End Polio Campaign. Register yourself, walk as an individual or form a Team with family, friends and club members to support Rotary’s priority project: to eradicate polio from the world. You can walk at your own pace over the month with your kms and fundraising dollars recorded on the Walk with Us website - https://www.rotarywalkwithus.org/
Applications for District 9800 Year 11-12 Scholarship Grants open for qualified clubs on October 1st, 2024. The Grants are provided through The Rotary Foundation in support of scholarships offered by clubs to local schools for the 2025-2026 school years. The scholarships have been enormously successful in assisting talented and motivated students facing financial hardship to complete their secondary education, and in helping clubs build stronger relationships with local schools.
What do 45 clubs from 4 districts, 200 plus attendees and representatives from Government, community organisations, health services and banks have in common? It’s the 2024 Donations in Kind Open Day showcasing the Magic of Rotary in action.
2025 Multi-District Impact Summit: New Dates – 16-18 May 2025!
We're excited to announce that the 2025 Multi-District Impact Summit will now take place from 16-18 May 2025! This adjustment was made to avoid conflicts with the AFL Gather Round, which impacted accommodation and travel costs during our original dates.
Michael's Magical Minute: A Spark of Inspiration for Rotarians Everywhere
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. That’s where Michael’s Magical Minute comes in—a quick, engaging, and inspirational video series designed to reignite the spark of Rotary within all of us. Each short reel captures the essence of Rotary’s mission, bringing to life the values and magic that make our community so special.
National Tree DaySunday 28 July saw fiveclubs in the Maribyrnong Valley Community Group partner with Moonee Valley Council for a huge tree planting exercise. Presidents and members from Brunswick-Tullamarine, Flemington-Kensington, Keilor East and North Melbourne joined with Rotary Footscray and braved the clear but wintery conditions to restore, replenish and extend the habitat lost during the 2022 floods of the Maribyrnong River.
The Rotary Club of Melbourne (Rotary Melbourne), and Gender and Disaster Australia (GADAus), have agreed to work together in partnership with Districts and Clubs in disaster prone areas to pilot and roll out the GADAus Lessons in Disaster (LIDs) training. This training aims to enhance Rotarians understanding of family violence in disaster contexts and leveraging their local knowledge and skills to foster safer, more resilient communities.An opportunity to participate in Lessons in Disaster training is on 18th August hosted by Rotary Club of Bendigo South.
It is with immense gratitude and humility that I accept the role of the new Governor of District 9800. My experiences with Rotary have been nothing short of magical.
Growing up with dreams of being a singer, I eventually became an IT project manager and was introduced to Rotary by Stephen Lake (RC Melbourne). Initially hesitant and intimidated, I found my place thanks to the unwavering support of mentors like John Meehan and PDG Neville John. At Rotary Central Melbourne Sunrise (RCCMS), I struggled to find my fit until I became the Youth Chair, aligning my passion for youth engagement with Rotary’s mission.
With a Grant from Balwyn Rotary, and the help of Rotary Clubs in Australia and Nepal, it was possible to establish a birthing centre in a health post in Kangel, a remote area of eastern Nepal.
Book now for the Victorian Finals Dinner for RESCA 2024. Join us as we acknowledge our emergency service people who make a real difference in our community.
With the support of a District 9800 Foundation Grant The Rotary Club of Essendon was able to work with the organisation Youth Projects, Hosier Lane, to provide warm clothing and jackets for people experiencing homelessness on Melbourne's streets.
When Rotary Hawthorn awarded its inaugural Service to Senior’s Award to the recipient, Margot Boyle, there was certainly no expectation that this would involve the audience singing along to a three part “Fish and Chips and Vinegar”! Through great control, MC Dorothy Gilmour kept it together and Rotarians and guests found themselves in sync with the joyful shanty.
What a privilege! Rotarians meeting, conversing, laughing and sharing beautiful African, Indian and Malaysian cuisine with 75 inspirational women and three men at the Changepreneurs’ International Women’s Day Event 2024.
On the morning of Saturday 25 May 2024, a significant landslide levelled a village in the Enga Province of PNG.
Rotary will assist in the recovery period with food, water and other items needed, such as clothing, bedding and shelter and work in partnership with local authorities and the PNG Government.
Rotary Hoppers Crossing's International Committee have recently completed an exciting project that will help provide a better standard of health care for hospitalised patients in three African countries; Ghana, Uganda, and Nigeria. The project has involved sending high-quality surgical instruments to health clinics and hospitals in the 3 African countries.
6pm Friday 23rd February - Tune in to Radio 94.1FM to hear Ian Salek (Rotary Glenferrie) from our 'Rotary and Community Service Show' interviewing DG Ron Payne on our pending Conference.
Come and listen to what is planned for the Conference great weekend in Bendigo.
Rotary Hoppers Crossing recently completed an exciting project that will help provide a better standard of health care for hospitalized patients in three African countries – Ghana, Uganda, and Nigeria. The project involved sending high-quality surgical instruments to health clinics and hospitals in the three countries.
We are now beginning to move into the ‘Change’ stages of the Regionalisation Pilot that will see us ready for a revised approach to be implemented from 1 July.
Our Governor team is working with the Steering Group to ensure a smooth transition for all clubs and to assist everyone in understanding what this change will mean.
Last chance to order your Rotary Fruit Cakes and Puddings to raise money for The Rotary Foundation.
Did you know that a portion of the proceeds from the sales by your club becomes a Foundation credit allocated to your club? How great is that! Chris from Melton Valley does an amazing job managing all the orders of Fruit Cakes and Puddings that are sold as far away as Darwin.
For any last-minute orders, you may be lucky to find out where there are cakes and puddings at a club near you. Email Chris at: rotarymeltonvalley@hotmail.com
Last year $27,000 was raised and donated to The Rotary Foundation. With your help, we can double that figure to do even more good in the world.
Rotary Keilor East is introducing an easier, and more cost-effective way to ship goods internationally. We know that many countries in our region could benefit from the goods that are readily available from our Donations In Kind (DIK) and Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment (RARE) stores. We also know that many clubs want to help, but mostly they operate in isolation. A full container of material is often more than a project needs and is financially challenging for many clubs. The answer is a shared container.
It’s not every day you can manage disease prevention, save the environment and see the locals smile with one simple project. Rotary Essendon took on that big job with just one machine and one chair - and people in Nairobi’s Mukuru Kwa Reuben slums are the winners.
In the lead-up to International Men’s Day (IMD) 2023, and in line with Rotary International President Gordon McInally’s focus on Mental Health, on November 17, Rotary Caroline Springs held a fundraising dinner to recognize community champions. Local organisations nominated people within their organisations to acknowledge their contribution and achievements in recognising mental health issues in the community.
Over the month of October, District 9800 Rotarians again took to the parks, pavements and walking machines to raise money towards ending Polio in the world. A huge thank you to everyone who participated; walking and raising money during October for our End Polio Campaign. Sixty-five individual walkers in 18 teams raised just over $47,000, with Robert Fisher from Rotary Melbourne topping the individual fundraising leaderboard and the DG Team topping the teams’ category.
Rotary Flemington Kensington has funded the second car for Moonee Valley Council’s L2P Program (Learners to Provisional) which assists learner drivers in fulfilling the pre-licence test requirement of 120 hours supervised driving. This car increases capacity and access for learners and mentors living in Ascot Vale and Flemington where many young people do not have access to either a car or a supervisor driver.
The sixth annual Hobsons Bay Rotary Teacher Awards held in early October, saw seven of the region’s best teachers recognised for their work furthering education. The Awards comprised three Encouragement Awards (for early career stage teachers), an Achievement Award for a more experienced teacher and a Team Award where a team had collaborated effectively to address an important new development for a school.
On World Mental Health Day 10th October, Rotary Yarraville members were joined by Rotarians from Port Phillip, Altona, and Port Gellibrand to raise funds and awareness of mental health in the community. The evening raised $450.00 for the Australian Rotary Health Foundation. It was a remarkable evening beginning with a heartfelt toast to Rotary International delivered by district governor nominee, Peter Shepheard. A number of inspirational speakers followed.
In the vibrant heart of Richmond, Rotary Richmond recently lit up the night with an exceptional celebration. Eight extraordinary Rotarians, whose combined service spanned an inspiring 302 years, took centre stage in a display of pride and joy. The ambiance was a blend of professionalism and delight with heartfelt speeches, laughter-inducing anecdotes, and a sense of camaraderie.
Through its support of the local Op Shop Pantry, Rotary Flemington Kensington has extended its community partnership with JobFind which provides the Op Shop with volunteers who, over the past 12 months, have had an opportunity to learn on-the-job experience in retail and community. Whilst working in the Op Shop volunteers identified a need for toiletries to supplement the food items available through the food pantry. A commitment to a toiletry drive through all JobFind Centres has been an outstanding success.
What would you do if you walked into a supermarket toilet to find a woman who looked just like you washing her hair in the sink? And as your eyes meet, you learn her story. She’d long thrived; things turned tough; she managed most of the time by house sitting or staying with friends. Sometimes, though, there was nowhere but the car. This was one of those times, the supermarket toilet was where she had to wash her hair. She was worried about being judged and was keen to add that she was OK.
Looking for a guest speaker for your Club Meeting or event? Know of a speaker that you would recommend to other Clubs?
We have two speakers from Speaker Bank to feature this month: Darren Park, forensic accountant, and CEO 'Pathfinders Forensic, and Hunter Leonard, award-winning marketer and founder of 'Silver & Wise'
Are you going to the Rotary International Convention in Singapore? Why not consider adding a week in Cambodia to your trip and immersing yourself in the daily life of Siem Reap.
Soak up experiences that will last you a lifetime and see Cambodia as you have never seen it before - from the inside and with the locals!!
We have received news via our 2022-23 Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair, Past Rotary International President Ian Riseley, of the wonderful collective efforts of Rotarians worldwide in respect to the fundraising efforts that make such a difference to the work we do and to the lives of others.
Foundation programs for years to come will be enhanced by the $427 million raised through gifts and commitments across 2022-23.
The Timor Leste Rotary Consortium team of Vijay Susarla and Justine Paragreen has returned from Timor-Leste, on a scoping trip for the next stage of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Project. As part of the trip for the next stage of the WASH Project, they undertook due diligence and assessment of potential sites for toilet blocks and water tanks in several villages, such as Triloka as the project expands into Manatuto, Viqueque and other parts of Baucau Districts in Timor Leste.
District 9800 has welcomed its latest Global Scholar, Haruka Tanaka, from Japan who arrived in Melbourne on 10 July and is being hosted by Flemington Kensington Rotary. Tanaka is undertaking a Master’s Degree in Education – Development Studies, at the University of Melbourne.
Navigating the landscape of emerging technology can often seem daunting. Recently, Generative AI has come to the forefront as a significant topic of interest, specifically ChatGPT - an AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered chatbot known for its ability to generate natural-sounding, human-like dialogue.
Over 120 people gathered at Hyatt Place Essendon Fields on Saturday 16th September 2023, to celebrate the inaugural Victorian Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA) honouring eleven finalists from ten of Victoria's emergency services agencies. The Awards are an important mechanism for our community to acknowledge and celebrate the selfless Community Service of Victorian Emergency Services personnel and recognises the incredible achievements of both volunteer and paid officers.
Will your club offer a Year 11-12 scholarship to your local high school this year? If so, Rotary Foundation Year 11-12 Scholarship Grants are again available to support you and your Club. Applications opened on 01 October 2023. Up to ten claims-based scholarship grants valued at $1,250 will be awarded to match the Club’s contribution of $1,250, funding a $2,500 scholarship offered over two years. Priority will be given to clubs that have not previously participated in the program.
The District 9800 Australian Rotary Health Committee conducts Mental Health First Aid Courses several times a year with the objective of raising funds for Australian Rotary Health (ARH) initiatives. These courses are open to Rotarians and also the public.
Victoria Police and Rotary SAFE Families are building relationships between the Indian community and Police, to encourage the reporting of crime and particularly family violence (a big under-reported problem within their community) and encourage the recruitment of Police and Protective Service Officers in their communities.
Cambodia’s Siem Reap is charming, culturally exquisite, and is home to the ancient wonder of Angkor Wat. In this impoverished country tourism is Siem Reap’s lifeline and COVID severed it.
It would be my great delight if you would consider joining me as I lead my 14th tour on behalf of Rotary in support of humanitarian sustainable projects which are identified and championed by local Khmers.
Keilor East Rotarians Debra Sloggett and Helen Penna were in Cambodia in July and shared their leadership and club experiences with the Rotaractors in Siem Reap.
“We really appreciate your valuable time and experience sharing with us so that we can make our club more sustainable and impactful”, is how Tangly Ton, the President of the Rotaract Club of Siem Reap described the mentorship session.
Sponsored by Rotary Bendigo and fully supported by members of Rotary Rochester, a group of Rochester men recently enjoyed an outing designed as a diversion from the ongoing and unwished-for chores post the major flooding that occurred in October 2022.
Posted by David Pearson, Chairman RAWCS on Jun 30, 2023
Once again Rotarians and the community have demonstrated their generosity at a time of tragedy. Following the disastrous bus roll-over on 11th June, resulting in the death or injury of several guests returning from a Hunter Valley wedding, a fund was set up to support victims of the crash.
Posted by Sarah Overton, District 9800 Vocational Service Chair on Jun 30, 2023
We know that Rotary Clubs support members and their families across significant life events, including births, deaths, milestone celebrations, and professional transitions. Recognising that the arrival of a new family member can impact a Rotarian’s availability and motivation to engage in volunteer activities, clubs have a particular challenge to maintain engagement – and ultimately membership – of members during the ‘family rearing’ years.
Photo: Sarah's daughter Addie meets her Rotary mentor, Neville Taylor
The Rotary Balwyn Centenary Grants program (https://balwynrotary.org.au/centenary-grants/) was started in 2021 with the objective of delivering one million dollars of grants to Australian Rotary clubs over a 5-year period. The latest round of grants saw a total of $119,000 awarded to five projects in four countries – Uganda, Bangladesh, Cambodia and Nepal.
Hearty congratulations to the 16 projects from 15 clubs that were awarded District Recognitions for 2022-23 in the Rotary International ’People of Action’ categories.
Education fuels innovation and progress. That's why Rotary members encourage lifelong learning, exchanging ideas and inspiring generations of problem solvers.
We all know that kindness is part of Rotary’s DNA, however, when two extraordinary stories of kindness emerged from Castlemaine Rotary’s 34th Truck Show held in late 2022, a short 6-minute film was produced to promote better understanding of the event.
Members of the Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour have created a great project to celebrate motherhood. On the 13th of May 2023, club members, joined by Rotarians from other clubs and friends of Rotary, came together to assemble 400 birthing kits.
A research team at Latrobe University Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, headed by Dr Adam Culvenor, is conducting clinical trials and research projects to investigate new ways to prevent knee osteoarthritis and improve the lives of people with knee pain and osteoarthritis. The team is looking for adults aged over 45 years with knee pain to participate in the study.
Bayspeak 2023, a public speaking competition for Bayside high schools, held its final on June 7th. The event, hosted by Firbank Grammar School, saw 38 students from 12 schools take part with 12 students from 10 schools reaching the final.
Life is tough on Melbourne's streets, but there are people lending a helping hand. In the only program of its kind in Australia, Night Nurses walk the city to conduct life saving health and welfare checks. Congrats to Rotary Clubs of Essendon, Central Melbourne and Woodend on the recognition of their support of the Youth Projects Night Nurses Program.
Rotary recognised for their support of Youth Projects Night Nurses Program
Huge congratulations and thank you to each and every one of our members who helped make Rotary International Convention number 114 the success that it was.
It can be a demanding time, with pre-events, side events, breakfast, cocktail and spontaneous events, all in addition to the actual events, and all too good to pass up. All while fulfilling ongoing volunteer responsibilities. I hope you’ve since found a little time for yourself, to take it easy and recuperate before a fantastic Changeover season.
If you wondered what this year’s Hands On Volunteering With The DG events were a warm up for, Big Difference in Fed Square is your answer.
Our booked-out Big Difference activation in Melbourne's Federation Square on Saturday 27 May capitalised on the community demand for what our clubs do well: meaningful, hands on, convenient volunteering. The energy, the shared purpose is real!
What an effort from the Rotary Club of Canterbury FORaMEAL team and the 80% of club members who provided their support for the Federation Square Big Difference packing event on 27 May where 100,000 meals were packed; and also at RICON23 House of Friendship where another 70,000 meals were packed – a total of 170,000 meals over 5 days.
The Peace Team at the Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour presented the club’s Peace Essay Project at the Peace Park in the ‘House of Friendship’ at the Rotary International Convention at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
A project of the Hoppers Crossing Rotary Club’s International Committee was successfully concluded at the recent Rotary International Convention. Pre-convention planning resulted in the gifting of high value surgical instruments to health clinics and hospitals in Ghana, Uganda and Nigeria.
The Clocktower venue in Moonee Ponds was filled with voices and accents from across the globe as 250 Rotarians gathered for a musical evening as one of the Club Hospitality events during RICON23.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Flemington Kensington, and supported by the Rotary Clubs of Essendon, Footscray and Keilor East, this was an opportunity for international visitors to experience the delights of the Moonee Valley and Melbourne musical scene.
Photo: Sylvie Paladino, Wendy Stapleton and the Australian Women's Choir
It was a truly international night when Rotary Canterbury hosted Rotarians from 20 clubs to a dinner at Amora Hotel. Guests included Rotarians from sister clubs in the Philippines, from several African countries, from the USA, from England and from several interstate clubs. A highlight of the night was a celebration of the club’s vital contribution, led by Doug Hawley and Nora Ley, to the success of The Big Difference FORaMEAL food packing event at Federation Square.
In the darkness of night, along the leafy streets of Hawthorn, two Ubers slipped away, taking their passengers to their hotels in Central Melbourne. One Uber contained an Indian man, a Hindu by birth, and his Iranian partner, a Muslim by birth. In the second Uber were two Indonesian women. One was Chinese by birth and instinctively Catholic in outlook, whilst her friend was Buddhist. Of the couple waving them goodbye into the night, one was, by upbringing, English and Anglican and the other, by upbringing, Australian and Catholic.
As part of the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne (RICON23), Monday 29th May was Home Hosting evening. The Rotary club of Yarraville President Jebadiah Annear and his husband Grant Carlson (First Husband's Committee Chair), hosted 22 people for dinner at their home in the western suburb of Brooklyn, Victoria
When Siem Reap Rotaractors Doeb, Lita, Phanich, Sokal and Tola stepped off the plane at Tullamarine, they knew they were on a trip which would change their lives forever. Less than 12 hours later, they were guest speakers at the Rotary Club of Keilor East, sharing the impact of education and mentoring on their lives.
The 7th pillar of Rotary, Environmental Sustainability, was well represented at events prior to and during RICON.
Prior to the convention opening, the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG)launched a Green Events handbook; held an action summit; and led a number of tours highlighting environmental issues. During the convention, breakout sessions included an ESRAG lunchtime forum; and a diverse menu of breakout sessions: ‘Adopt a River’, ‘End Plastic Soup’, and ‘A Plant-rich Diet: Delicious Climate Action’.
The House of Friendship also featured several booths representing Rotary environmental projects.
On the Saturday before the Rotary International Convention, District 9800 hosted The Big Difference: a day to pack 100,000 meals in FORaMEAL emergency relief food packs to send to people in need worldwide.
Every picture tells a story, and there were MANY stories to tell of RICON 23. From pre-convention events like The Big Difference and the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) Action summit and environmental tours; to the Convention opening with its magical flagbearer ceremony; plenary sessions; breakout sessions; and the booths in the House of Friendship, there was so much to see, so many friends, old and new to meet and so much to learn.
Despite being a Rotarian for nearly 20 years, I had never attended an International Convention and I was keen to attend one in my home city So when the opportunity to volunteer as a flag bearer, I jumped at the chance.
I remain forever inspired and in awe of our Rotarians. Once again our members have stepped up when it counts.
When we received word that Rochester residents were approaching winter without enough blankets, our People Of Action instincts kicked in. District Service Director Lili Teichman has written a fantastic article about the blanket drive but I wish to echo her thanks to the following clubs and individuals for their generous donations and support (in club alphabetical order):
Activate Victoria club members, including Greg Harbour
Albert Park club members, including Mark Davies, David Gorman, Lea Ram
Balwyn club members, including David Hobson
Bendigo club members and, including Peter Reading
Brighton North club members, including Lyn Mortimer
Carlton club members, including Ian Ada, Michael Elligate, Tania Herschberg
Camberwell club members, including Gary Goldsmith, Alan Lorenzini
Chadstone/East Malvern club members, including Michele Kennedy, Frank Warner, Jo Roach, Kathy Noble
Daylesford club members, including Terri Oprean
DIK Team, including Bob Glindemann
E-Club club members, including Gabe Hau
Hawthorn club members, including Katrina and Mick Flinn
Hoppers Crossing club members, including Mick and Pennie Stade
Macedon Ranges club members, including Sally Armstrong
Melbourne Passport club members, including Jessica Palti
North Balwyn club members, including Rowan McClean
Point Lonsdale club members
RIMERN Team, including David Gorman
Werribee club members, including Ian and Micki Hovey
Woodend club members, including Grant and Melissa Hocking
The Rotary Passport Club of Melbourne has welcomed 5 Rotaractors from the Rotaract Club of Siem Reap, Cambodia, who are in Australia for the Rotary International Convention. Doeb, Lita, Phanich, Sokal and Tola have already done so much during their first week in Melbourne, including being guest speakers at a number of clubs in D9800, volunteering alongside RC Balwyn members at the Camberwell Sunday Market and hosting a community event.
Rotary Club of Essendon partnered with Youth Project’s Night Nurses to provide essential items for People in Melbourne who are street based. The project, called ‘Here Comes the Sun’, provides mainly items needed to get through Melbourne’s warmer months.
Via their work in hospitals in Phnom Penh, a group of orthopaedic surgeons had a dream to build a new surgical ward for Kampong Spue Referral Hospital. That dream has now been realised through the extraordinary generosity of benefactor, Dr. Chris Keenan who funded the building of a brand-new surgical facility with two operating theatres.
While the building was under construction the Rotary Clubs of Hawthorn, Vic. and Osborne Park, WA, got to work identifying and sourcing suitable items for the new operating theatres.
Teachers and students alike have responded enthusiastically to Bayspeak, a Rotary public speaking competition for Melbourne Bayside high schools, now in its third year. Teachers have praised the organisation of the competition and the very high standard of the speakers, qualities, they say, that have made Bayspeak the premier public speaking event for Bayside secondary schools.
It starts with a smile and a shared sense of purpose.
Among people who enjoy connecting for a cause, to solve problems and address community needs.
That's what we do at Rotary. We are people of action, a network of 1.4 million neighbours, friends, and leaders who bring our skills, ideas, and expertise to take on challenges here and around the globe.
From protecting the environment, to supporting our neighbours, to investing in the next generation of problem solvers.
Our members share a passion for making the world better and creating lasting change at home and around the world.
Bring your passion and purpose and take action with us.
Posted by PDG Marilyn Mercer, Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney on May 13, 2023
The Science Experience is a Rotary Districts of Australia initiated and supported program: a nationwide STEM outreach program for year 9 and 10 students in 2023.
The Victorian Rotary Emergency Services Community (RESC) Awards are designed to recognise our emergency service personnel who have gone above and beyond their call of duty and reflected the Rotary motto of “Service above Self”.
Nominations for the RESCA Awards VIctoria will be open to all Victorian-based paid and volunteer Emergency Service Personnel and can be made by any member of the community, or their colleagues.
Rotarians are encouraged to nominate outstanding Emergency Service workers in their communities.
Posted by Lili Teichman, Director of Service on May 04, 2023
The other evening, I was sitting on the lounge. It was so cold that I decided to throw over 2 blankets and then I stopped and thought about the people in Rochester, impacted by the floods, living in caravans, tents and sheds ………
The incredibly generous acts of kindness shown by our Rotary clubs, in answering our callout for assistance, only two weeks ago, to help others in need is simply overwhelming. The families in Rochester who have been impacted by the floods, after 6 months have reached out and asked us for help. We have been waiting for this call! And there was a 24-hour turnaround in responses!
Breaking News: Word from Rochester is that almost all blankets have been distributed in only 2 days since they arrived!!
Photo: David Gorman and Frank Warner loading the truck.
After several years of setbacks, the small rural village of Mwast, on the island of Espiritu Santo, 25 km north of the city of Luganville, has two new school classrooms and an office.
The project began in 2017, at the suggestion of Woodend Rotarians Allan and Shirley Cann, who have volunteered business mentoring for many years in Vanuatu.
‘We noticed that many primary school-age children were not attending school and were told by the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) that many parents could not afford to send children to school, and many schools were so overcrowded, that new children were turned away’
RIMERN and WERN are a multi club Rotary projects operating Inner and Western Melbourne, providing furniture, appliances & homewares to welfare agency clients who have experienced homelessness, domestic violence, incarceration, refugee displacement and other crises.
Customers of Coles have an opportunity to contribute.
ROMAC (Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children) is a not-for-profit humanitarian organisation run entirely with volunteers. Established more than 35 years ago in District 9800, it is now a project of Rotary Districts in Australia and New Zealand.
Walk through beautiful Melbourne to End Polio Now. This is a RICON23 event to raise further awareness and funds to eradicate Polio and will be a pleasant way to spend an Autumn evening.
Enjoy a 3-day pass free of charge to the House of Friendship, where you’ll be able to connect with thousands of fellow Rotary members from around the world; and have access to hundreds of Rotary project booths, vendors, food, and entertainment at the 2023 Rotary Interantional Convention in Melbourne.
District 9800 is partnering with the world-changing FORaMEAL to deliver 100,000 much-needed emergency relief meals to people in Ukraine, Turkey and Syria, while connecting with 1,000+ new volunteers in a high-profile, meaningful, hands on, convenient community event! In our very own Fed Square!
The aim is to connect with oodles of new volunteers, so we’re asking Rotarians’ help in two ways:
1. Distribute this event to your community partners, community members and sponsors, and encourage them to volunteer on the day, by registering at wayvolunteer.org
Rotarians from around the world will be in town for the commencement of Rotary International Convention, so let’s show them how District 9800 gets behind one of its own projects – FORaMEAL – to make a big, world-changing difference.
Make a big difference! Relief meal assembly at Fed Square
Welcome to new members of our just-chartered club Rotary Activate Victoria Club. Rotary Activate has signed 22 new members for the District, and three transferring members. The new ‘Activators’ have already been out in force volunteering at Avalon Centre helping to sort goods for those experiencing homelessness.
In a fantastic demonstration of growmyclub.org principles in action, District Service Chair Lili Teichman has been working with meaningful, hands, convenient projects to connect with more volunteers, with Rotary Activate demonstrating how to activate those volunteers into members, by pitching Rotary’s Vocational Advantage.
Activate is looking forward to connecting new members with projects and mentors across our clubs, to help them find their best fit in the Rotary family.
Discover new ways to pitch Rotary to participating volunteers: rotaryactivatevic.com
If your club is considering applying for a Rotary Foundation District Grant, now is the time to apply.
The District Grants committee has ample funds still available for this Rotary year. It is possible to arrange District Grants through the District 9800 Humanitarian Grants Committee at relatively short notice. The Grants Committee has been able to approve grants and has done so quite quickly where grant applications comply with the terms and conditions of the Rotary Foundation.
Looking for a speaker for your club? Speakers recently added to Speaker Bank include Mal Padgett, who speaks on Rotary’s history of raising bowel cancer awareness; and George Petrou OAM, a graphic designer who supports the welfare of ex-service personnel.
Several other speakers have impressed and received favourable reviews!
Posted by Dr Carol Bond Rotary Melbourne on Mar 27, 2023
Rotary’s 7th area of focus was established to prioritise care for the environment and is the foundation for Rotary’s other 6 areas of focus. In celebration of World Environment Day, you are most warmly invited to join Rotarians from around the District and the Region for a luncheon, on 17th May at the Sofitel on Collins, highlighting a very special environmental theme: the Circular Economy.
Posted by Bente McDonald, District 9560 on Mar 27, 2023
Rotary District 9560 hosted a group of 14 Timor-Leste midwives and nurses in a Vocational Training Team that attended a 5-week Maternal and Child Health Course at Central Queensland University Mackay Campus.
Funded by a Rotary Foundation Global Grant, with assistance from the Mackay/Whitsunday area Rotary clubs, the course was especially organised to present different procedures and knowledge not readily available to the group in Timor-Leste.
In early 2020, with the onset of Covid 19, where countries were closing their borders to travellers, I received a request from friends in Cambodia advising that they needed help to support Cambodians who were facing starvation due to lack of income. Young people who worked in the cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap had lost their jobs due to lack of tourism and the closure of businesses involved in the garment industries, and therefore, they could not send funds back home to support their families as they normally would.
The Rotary Club of Bendigo South has been supporting Projects in Cambodia and assisting the Rotary Club of Phnom Penh for many years. Our latest Project was to raise sufficient funds to assist the Club with the purchase of bicycles for poor families and libraries for school communities.
Posted by Director of Service, Lili Teichmann on Mar 15, 2023
Five months ago our Victorian regions were subjected to huge flooding with the town of Rochester was particularly impacted. Rochie is now ready for us to provide assistance so it’s time to head over there, roll up our sleeves and do some serious volunteering.
While many people are still not able to return to their homes, continuing to live in caravans or with family and friends, the rains have created much growth in the gardens and this is where they are requesting assistance.
You don’t need to have green thumbs to help – just a willingness to spend a few hours tidying up the gardens, lawns, community spaces mowing lawns, whipper snippering, weeding and general garden pruning. The last thing we need is overgrowth, particularly during hot weather times.
Rotary clubs often lose track of potential youth leaders once they graduate from youth projects. The Rotary club of Hoppers Crossing has found a way to retain these links through the introduction of a young people’s networking group: Rotary Youth Projects Alumni, or RYPA.
Through RYPA young people over eighteen and up to twenty-five years who progress through Rotary endorsed Youth programs can stay in contact with each other and their sponsor Rotary club. They can gain through networking opportunities; Rotary mentoring; and by running a major humanitarian service project themselves once per year.
Posted by Rotary Club of Central Melbourne on Mar 14, 2023
In many parts of the world it is a common experience for girls to miss school for up to six days per month during menstruation because of poor sanitation and hygiene, stigmatisation and infection.
In 2018, Rotary Central Melbourne member Mawien Ariik saw an opportunity to identify vital community needs in his home village of Lou Ariik and founded South Sudanese Health Matters Inc. These needs included basic healthcare, education, clean water and sanitation, and access to improved women’s hygiene.
The South Sudan Menstrual Hygiene and Education project was established and recently helped 800 schoolgirls through the distribution of re-usable menstrual hygiene kits (sourced from Days For Girls Uganda). By distributing the kits along with menstrual hygiene education the project is empowering girls, addressing the stigma and traditional cultural mores of menstruation in a sensitive way, and helping to reduce infection rates.
Congratulations to Mawien Arrik and Rotary Central Melbourne for bringing lasting change to the lives of these girls by connecting project partners including Rotarians, The Rotary Foundation, volunteers from South Sudanese Health Matters; The Chagai Foundation and the village Chieftains.
Posted by District Governor Amanda Wendt on Mar 08, 2023
Happy International Women’s Day
I’m incredibly thankful for all the wonderful women I know through Rotary: mentors, friends and people I continue to look up to and learn from every day.
Please take a moment today to acknowledge the women in your clubs and those who lead throughout District 9800, particularly our Club Presidents and District Leadership Team.
Club Presidents
Sally Armstrong, Macedon Ranges
Pennie Cornwell, Kew
Michele Kennedy, Chadstone/East Malvern
Faye Kirkwood, Caulfield
Seema Lal, Wyndham Harbour
Teresa Liu, Glenferrie
Vera Maljevac, Essendon
Donna Martin, Bacchus Marsh
Sue McDonald, North Balwyn
Judy Miatke, Bendigo Sandhurst
Kate Miller, Echuca-Moama
Sue Moses-Critchley, Fitzroy
Cheryl Nash, Laverton Point Cook
Fabienne Nichola, Camberwell
Terri Oprean, Daylesford
Janice Peeler, Richmond
Helena Peng, Rotaract E-Club of Melbourne
Merlyn Quaife AM, Bendigo South
Lynette Robinson, Gisborne
Shraddha Sharma, Flemington Kensington
Sainab Sheikh, North Melbourne
Maria Silber, Footscray
Debra Sloggett, Keillor East
Deborah Tucker, Eynesbury
Vera Vasilchenko, Brunswick Tullamarine
Heather Watson, Rochester
Edda Williams, Canterbury
District 9800 Leadership Team
Anne King, District Secretary
Justine Murphy, District Secretariat
Marjorie Gerlinger, District Secretariat
Lili Teichmann, Director, Service
Sue Foley, Director, Fundraising
Sarah Overton, Chair, Vocational Service
Rosemary Waghorne, Chair, Club Service
Sue Vincent, Chair Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Kitty O’Connor, AG Beachside
Alison Bacon, AG Goldfields North
Anthea Rutter, AG Stonnington
Anne Frueh, AG Port Philip and Riverside
Mary Barry, Chair Host Organising Committee
Thank you to everyone who supports women in their clubs, community and in Rotary!
The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity is conducting a study of an experimental influenza (flu) vaccine using new mRNA technology and is seeking healthy adults 65 years and older.
Rotary’s Council on Resolutions and Council on Legislation give Rotary members a voice in how our organisation is governed.
The deadline for submission of resolutions to the 2022 Council on Resolutions is 30 June.
To meet the 30 June deadline for submission, clubs wishing to submit a resolution should let me know at least six weeks beforehand to enable time for a vote of the district’s clubs to be arranged.
“I want to say how honoured, humbled and extremely excited I am to have been appointed as District Governor Nominee Designate for Rotary D9800.
Really pleased that as my club Rotary Altona celebrates its 60th anniversary my gift to the members and partners is that the club will be Home of the District Governor in 25/26.
Looking forward to learning from current DG Amanda Wendt, DGE Ron Payne and DGN Michael Lapina and hoping to make proud all the PDGs I have had the pleasure to work with over my almost 20 years in Rotary. Let the adventure begin!"
- DGND Peter Shepheard
Known for his reassuring and supportive approach, and being a great mate to many, our District is in terrific hands during 2025-2026. Congratulations Peter, enjoy the ride!
Rotary Bendigo’s Starthrower Wellbeing Project, hosting 6 women last week from flood devastated Rochester, was fabulous and heart-warming.
In Queenscliff/Point Lonsdale, a wonderful group of local women generously gave our guests time out from their day-to-day stress. They were filled with gratitude for the caring, nurturing and fun that was shared. Friendships were formed, memories made and our guests returned to Rochester relaxed, with more positivity and energy to meet the challenges that still await them until their homes become liveable again.
Rotary Chadstone/East Malvern SleepOut to help end family violence and homelessness has been postponed to Friday April 14, 5.30pm to sunrise, at Central Park Malvern East.
This May, we’re hosting tens of thousands of Rotarians right here in Melbourne, offering us all a unique opportunity to experience the amazing energy and fellowship, global knowledge sharing and shared purpose of a Rotary International Convention. Catch a glimpse of what to expect at https://fb.watch/hnztR9vWCg/
I attended my first international convention in 2016 in Seoul, and experiencing the purpose, scale and impact of our organisation changed the course of my community leadership journey. It is my hope that you are able to have your very own life-changing experience at this year’s International Convention here in Melbourne.
To help, District is sponsoring five Rotarians/Rotaractors from our District aged under 40 to attend, along with a little spending money and accommodation.
After a lot of planning and preparation the Rotary Clubs of Caulfield and Elsternwick (not yet chartered) have started the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Community Market. The inaugural Market, with over 120 stall holders, was held on February 5th 2023 and was alive with people, stalls and dogs.
There will be a Market on the first Sunday of every month from here on.
As a result of their government requiring traditional Muslim education, girls and young women in Afghanistan lost their broader education dreams. They have lost their right to determine their own future; and have lost the capacity to inspire their children. Rotary Carlton will use the internet to change this.
The girls and women will be inspired to dream again!
The Rotary Club of Carlton received a grant of $5,000 from the Rotary Foundation towards a $15,000 project to improve the education of women and girls in Afghanistan through an internet portal.
The Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) is organising a diverse range of activities for convention delegates, prior to and during the Rotary International Convention in May 2023.
These activities include Environmental Tours, an Action Summit, a RAGtime event pre-RICOON; and break-out sessions during the convention. The aim is to showcase a sample of Rotary environmental initiatives across the world; and to encourage Rotarians to take further action to support and recover our environment.
Victorian clubs from all districts are invited to become involved in sponsoring participants in two very special interstate Youth Challenge sails on South Australia’s ship, ‘One & All’ in 2023.
The expansion of the Rotary Youth Challenge Sailing Program into Victoria, where a Youth Challenge Sail Committee has just been formed, will be enhanced by these special voyages in conjunction with the Rotary International World Convention in Melbourne.
The first 7-day sail will voyage from Adelaide to Melbourne prior to the Convention; the second will return from Melbourne to Adelaide after its conclusion.
As part of the Rotary International Convention, One & All will also be taking Conference delegates on short lunch and dinner cruises on the Yarra River from Docklands.
Rotary has some wonderful stories to tell....but how many of us ever had practical tips on how to improve our own skills and the chance for real time practice? This FREE and highly interactive Workshop will feature a minimum of theory and a maximum of hands-on practice in a very friendly, safe environment.
The theory will be provided by Video Link from former Essendon Rotarian, Bernadette Schwerdt, an expert in the Art of Storytelling.
Date: Saturday March 25, 9.30am to 11.30am
Location: RIMERN Warehouse, The Learning Suite at 32-34 Lincoln Street, Brunswick East.
RAWCS has commenced fundraising activities to support the impacted communities resulting from the Turkey and Syria Earthquake and the New Zealand Floods. Rotary Australia World Community Service Ltd (RAWCS) will work with local and international Rotary networks to facilitate the distribution of funds raised. The fundraising campaign was launched last week to support the communities in need as these disasters continue to cause significant loss.
Posted by Director of Service, Lili Teichmann on Feb 06, 2023
On Sunday 5 February, members of District 9800 rolled up their sleeves and partnered with members from Rotary clubs in District 9780, with assistance from the President of the Rotary Club of Kerang (D9780), Gerardine Prendergast, who inspired and motivated both Rotarians and non-Rotarians to come together and volunteer to make meal kits for families who have been impacted by the floods in her region.
Incorporating FORaMEAL packs made the day before at our Gateway DG Cluster visit in Bendigo, with some additional ingredients, we set a new record in preparing meal kits! 16 volunteers from both Rotary and community groups took just 30 minutes to put together 300 meal kits which would provide a total of 1500 meals. It was an awesome, hands on volunteering experience with participants sharing their experiences, many, ‘at the coal face’ and living first hand through the difficulties presented by the floods.
Hello, it’s great to be back in touch after what I hope was a restful and recuperative break with family and friends. That said, Rotary’s work never ceases, as work for our clubs’ flood-affected communities and Australia Day events continued. I’m also excited for this back nine of 2022-2023, as it is looking to be among the biggest our district has experienced. Buckle up for a big five months!
Posted by President Heather Watson on Feb 04, 2023
Rotary Club of Rochester President Heather Watson takes a moment out of packing 11,000 relief meals at the Goldfields North and South Cluster Visit to provide an update on how the community is going in Rochie, and that the best way for clubs to help – for now – is to donate funds.
In the meantime, District 9800 is initiating an insurance advice service, staffed by volunteer insurance professionals, to help families and businesses get back into their premises. Thanks to PDG Ross Butterworth, Mark Perree and many others for leading such an innovative initiative.
A huge thank you to all our members from clubs in Goldfields North and South for an absolutely ripper Official DG Cluster Visit on Saturday!
We packed 11,000 nutritious For a Meal meals for clubs to distribute to their flood-affected communities, came together midway for lunch, and even celebrated with a cheeky Rotary-appropriate beverage afterwards.
Applications for the first round of 2023 Balwyn Rotary Centenary Grants close on March 31. For more information and to download the application form, go to: www.balwynrotary.org.au/centenary-grants
Reflect on what our First Nations people have done in keeping our lands in pristine condition for 60,000+ years Respect how the First Nations people achieved…
Rotary Southbank ESG Group's central event was livestreamed across Australia on January 26th. You can view it now.
Rotary’s highest honor recognizes Rotarians who demonstrate Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self, by volunteering their time and talents to help others. The award is internationally competitive, and is granted to no more than 150 Rotarians worldwide. Professor Jeremy Oats AM from Rotary Melbourne was confirmed by the January RI Board as being one of this year’s recipients.
Posted by Alison Jones, Event Manager on Jan 28, 2023
The Melbourne Celtic Festival is back on St Patrick’s Day, Friday, March 17 2023 from 12pm to 11pm at Melbourne’s iconic Mission to Seafarers, 717 Flinders Street.
100% of ticket proceeds go to Rotary Foundation Australia and Australian Rotary Health Mental Health Support and Research Programs.
Posted by Jane Pennington, Polio Plus Co-ordinator on Jan 28, 2023
The Polio Plus Society, a fundraising and recognition program specifically to support the worldwide effort to eradicate polio, is now open to District 9800 Rotarians.
Members pledge to donate at least US$100 annually to the PolioPlus Fund until polio is gone from the world.
Over 1,000 mozzie candles donated to Rotary Echuca Moama via RAWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service) will be free to the flood-affected Echuca-Moama community.
On behalf of Rotarians from D9800 and beyond, I wish to congratulate the following individuals and clubs who were recognised on Australia Day for their leadership and commitment to making a difference to others through their services to the community and vocations. We are all incredibly proud and delighted these inspiring people have been recognised.
It has been a busy first 6 months of the Rotary year in the Foundation space with lots of activity. The Foundation Newsletter has a summary of these activities and an update of what is important in the coming months.
In April 2022, Rotary Club of Richmond received a call for assistance and financial support from Thomas Williams, Head of Music at Richmond High School. The request was for funds to purchase a much needed baritone saxophone for the school, an item not provided to State Schools by the Ministry of Education.
Pictured are Thomas Williams, Principal Lars Andersson, Mark Dwyer, and Maria Makris with the baritone sax.
BOOK NOW FOR THIS FREE EVENT, LIVESTREAMED 12.00-1.15pm 26th JANUARY
Reflect what our First Nations people have done in keeping our lands in pristine condition for 60,000+ years. Respect how the First Nations people achieved this, and celebrate the multi-cultural Australia we are. We are in this together!
Speakers include: Thomas Mayo, a Kaurareg Aboriginal and Kalkalgal, Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man and the National Indigenous Officer of the MUA; Costa Georgiadis, presenter of Gardening Australia; and Professor Patrick McGorry, youth mental health advocate.
In 2020 Rotary Club Chadstone/East Malvern introduced their “Sleeping out Rough Night” program, to raise not only funds, but awareness that there are people every night who only have the street to call home.
This year the ‘Sleeping Out Rough Night’ will be held in Central Park East Malvern, on the 17 March. We would love to see Rotary Clubs across District 9800 come and join us to make this year even more successful. Funds we raise this year, will go toward continuing to assist people experiencing homelessness; and also, to assist women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
Jean Abbey, the widow of Royce Abbey, Past President of Rotary International 1988/89, celebrated her 100th Birthday in Melbourne on the 13th of December 2022. A small family gathering with children, grandchildren and a few of her 12 great grandchildren helped celebrate the event. The following day Jean was also visited by two members representing the Rotary Club of Essendon, the club Royce joined in 1954 and remained a member until his passing in 2014.
The milestone was recognised by the Prime Minister, Governor General, Federal Minister for Veterans Affairs, Premier of Victoria and Victorian Governor.
If you would like to leave a special birthday message for Jean, comment below in this post and DG Amanda will collate everyone's well wishes on behalf of D9800.
WERN (Western Emergency Relief Network) is part of the City of Maribyrnong Flood Recovery Committee and is offering support in several ways. Many of the 400 families affected by the recent floods are struggling with financial and insurance implications of the devastation.
Do you have vocational skills with an insurance background that could help?
Essendon North Rotary Club are conducting their annual Australia Day Breakfast with keynote speaker Barry Jones AC. Funds raised will be donated to TLC for Kids.
Since 1998, TLC for Kids has given relief and much-needed distraction to sick children and their families during stressful and traumatic situations. In hospitals across Australia, our services have been used over 13.1 million times and counting. For bookings go to: www.trybooking.com/CEYJQ
Posted by Andrew Woodward CEO RAWCS on Dec 16, 2022
There is now a major mosquito danger within flood impacted communities. In order to provide some relief to affected communities, RAWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service Inc.) has acquired thousands of mosquito repellent candles.
RAWCS has taken the initiative and so far distributed over 16,000 candles in Shepparton (VIC), Lismore (NSW), Parkes (NSW) and Gympie (QLD) with great effect. There are plans to distribute up to a further 25,000 candles in coming weeks.
Posted by PDG Peter Frueh and PDG Ingrid Waugh on Dec 16, 2022
After the Regionalisation Pilot vote in September, we announced that 90% of clubs voted yes to proceed with the pilot and 20 of 21 districts met the two thirds of clubs voting Yes threshold. The 21st district had a simple majority in favour but not the two thirds majority.
The results were reported to the Rotary International Board and it was approved that we proceed with 20 districts. We will continue to work with the last district during this period and give them the opportunity to have another vote at a later time.
'One Rotary Club at a time... one nurse at a time'
Imagine it! Could one Rotary Club in suburban Melbourne make a meaningful difference in treatment and outcomes for cancer patients in regional Victoria and beyond? That question has been positively answered recently by 'ROMP' - the Rotary Club of Camberwell’s Rotary Outreach Myeloma Program.
The Rotary Club of North Melbourne is assisting the Association of Ukrainians in Victoria, who are running a raffle to support re-settlement of displaced Ukrainians in Victoria.
Clubs selling tickets for the raffle will receive a $5 return per ticket. The raffle, with first prize a $15,000 gift voucher ,will be drawn on 7th January 2023.
For ticket orders contact Ted Dziadkiewicz, RC North Melbourne, via email: tedd@contourstravel.com.au or mob: 0408 106 719
October 8th was a chilly but clear Saturday morning for the opening of the new playground at Victoria Park Kew, and the spirits of club members in attendance for were high. Finally, they got to dedicate the fabulous new BBQ donated to the project as the club’s contribution to all the other projects undertaken by Rotary clubs around Australia to mark the centenary of Rotary in Australia in 2021.
Rotary’s Council on Resolutions (COR) and Council on Legislation (COL) give us a voice in how our organisation is governed.
The Council on Resolutions of Rotary International meets online every year to vote on resolutions proposed by clubs, districts, and the RI Board. Resolutions are requests to the Board or the Foundation Trustees to take an action that is outside the purview of the RI constitutional documents.
In July 2022, a shipment of FORaMEAL packs containing 100,000 meals was dispatched to the Philippines. When the shipment arrived, the packs were distributed to five strategically placed Rotary Clubs in the Philippines ready for when they would be needed following disasters such as floods and fire. It wasn’t long before that aid was needed.
The Year 11-12 Scholarship Grant program for 2022 is now fully subscribed, with all ten available grants snapped up by clubs eager to extend their support for students at local high schools.
Organisers were pleased with the turnout for the End Polio Now Walk following the November Zone 8 Conference in Canberra. 87 registered walkers, including RI President Elect, Gordon McInally (holding the baton) and RI Director, Jessie Harman, enjoyed the walk in the pleasant surrounds of Lake Burley Griffin. To date, $55,000 has been raised, but further donations would be very welcome.
The Rotary National Flood Appeal has been launched to raise funding to provide financial assistance to flood victims in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. Funds donated to Victoria and Border Communities Flood Relief Fund Distribution (Project 31-2022-23 RABS) will go to flood victims in Victoria and Border communities. Donations can be made via the RAWCS website: https://donations.rawcs.com.au/31-2022-23
Around 30 Rotarians joined together to pack over 4000 meals in one hour as part of the official DG Batman cluster visit. Held in the foyer outside Red Emperor restaurant, it took only moments for 5 random pedestrians to stop, enquire about who we are, what we were doing, pull on gloves and get involved! Hands-on volunteering sells itself and what a wonderful, impactiful introduction to Rotary for these new volunteers!
Well this is your chance but it will cost you a donation to the Rotary Foundation!
If we reach our target of $500k AUD to the annual fund, DG Amanda Wendt - joined by DGE Ron Payne, DGN Michael Lapina and D9800 Foundation Chair Grant Hocking - will skydive out of a plane.
Want to join us up in the sky? Challenge your club or cluster to your own fundraising goal and help our District meet the target!
It only took members of Essendon, Essendon North, Flemington Kensington, Footscray and West Footscray a record 13 mins 41 secs to pack 100 food parcels which were delivered to local food banks, feeding 500 people in need. Gateway East showed what was possible with a strategic production line and a determination to beat the previous record held by Westside at 15 mins.
Posted by Murray Verso, Zone 8 End Polio Now Co-ordinator on Nov 10, 2022
Rotary’s number one priority remains the worldwide eradication of polio.
The amazing progress made by Rotary and its partners towards eradicating polio is inspirational, but the job is not yet done. Raising the US$50 million each year to obtain the maximum Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation 2-to-1 match is a challenge.
The PolioPlus Society is a new fundraising and recognition program that specifically supports PolioPlus. The program began in Oregon, USA in 2012 and is now being used successfully by districts throughout North America, Brazil and The Philippines. Now, Rotary members and others in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands will have the opportunity to participate.
Great evening spent with the Chirnside cluster clubs as we continued to work together through hands-on volunteering. 50 food packs were given to Afghan refugees and 100 birthing kits are making their way overseas. Thanks to the club presidents Kwabena Larbi, Cheryl Nash, Ian Hovey, Pascal Ochi and Seema Lal for updating everyone on the difference their clubs are making, I'm always blown away by what clubs achieve!
One of our District’s best success stories, For-A-Meal has provided well over 500,000 emergency relief meals for free to for those impacted by natural disasters. It was only natural that we hold a special volunteer with the DG day to support their mission.
PDG Bronwyn Stephens, District Service Director Lili Teichman and myself were joined by Peter Mercer from Diversity Works and PDG Edith Chaney (D9920) to discuss what DEI means in the context of Rotary.
Prof. Janet McCalman, AC, a teacher and researcher in interdisciplinary history at the University of Melbourne
Richard Harrison, Australian author, speaker and cricket umpire.
If you have an interesting speaker at your club that you would recommend to other clubs, please contact Speaker Bank Chair, Jill Weeks (Hawthorn) via the Speakers Bank page: https://rotarydistrict9800.org.au/sitepage/speaker-bank (Available only to members logged on to the District website)
Posted by Lili Teichman Avenues of Service Chair on Oct 27, 2022
In October, under the direction of PDG Ross Butterworth, volunteers rolled up their sleeves for some Hands-on Volunteering with the DG at Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN).
Thank you to everyone who has so promptly booked their Paul Harris Breakfast tickets. Unfortunately, our guest speaker Jeroen Weimer is no longer available on Wednesday 23 November 2022. However, Jeroen has been able to work with us to be available on Tuesday 22 November.
The two-day Global Congress Against Malaria brings respected malaria experts, governments, NGO's, corporates, Rotarians and non-Rotarians together in Melbourne, Australia, to share, educate and discuss how to Finish the Fight Against Malaria.
Will your club offer a Year 11-12 scholarship to your local High School this year? If so, Rotary Foundation Year 11-12 Scholarship Grants will again be available to support you.
Applications for grants opened 1st October 2022 and close on 12th November.
The 17th International Tennis Fellowship of Rotarians (ITFR) World Championship will take place in Melbourne Park “The Home of Tennis”, over 4 days from 23-26 May 2023, in the lead up to the RI Convention.
Don’t be put off by the “World Championships” tag, it’s an event for tennis players of all ages and abilities.
The Water for Education Project, providing four schools in Siem Reap with water filtration systems, has successfully installed a water filtration system providing one school with delicious clean, clear water. The water is available to both students and the wider community. Rotarians and friends from Australia, Cambodia and Singapore joined together to celebrate this project in action.
The Host Organising Committee (HOC) is looking for Volunteers to assist with the running of the Rotary International Convention in May 2023 in Melbourne (RICON23). Volunteers are required to primarily assist as Welcome Marshalls at the main convention sites ( Melbourne Convention and Entertainment Centre and Rod Laver Arena ) as well as at HOC Events, Major Block Hotels, Tullamarine Airport and Southern Cross Station. Volunteers will also be first-hand providers of information and advice to delegates on a variety of aspects of RICON23.
Bees and other pollinators are essential to maintain production of our food crops and are responsible for one in every three mouthfuls of food we eat! Over recent years there has been an alarming reduction in pollinator populations worldwide. Thanks to this enthusiastic group of bee champions, many more Rotary clubs and communities are actively engaged in fighting the decline of pollinator populations worldwide.
Now in its fourth year, Rotarians for Bees, a project of the Rotary Club of Canterbury, Victoria, is expanding into New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory as a project of the Rotary Club of Castle Hill, NSW.
School Principal (retired) and PDG Julie Mason AM says “It’s never been more important to support and honour teachers for the extraordinary requirements put on them during the Pandemic and its recovery.”
Brighton, Brighton North and Caulfield clubs had a very successful night building new friendships, sharing project wins and discovering ways to collaborate at the official DG Beachside Cluster visit. It was the first time the three clubs have met together and to quote many of the members, 'Let's make sure its's not the last time'!
The passing of Lawrence Atley OAM was a sad milestone for the Rotary Club of Footscray. Lawrence was a dedicated and passionate Rotarian who enjoyed and valued his time in Rotary and the friends he made there.
Posted by District Governor, Amanda Wendt on Oct 07, 2022
The full results of the Zone 8 Regionalisation Pilot vote were shared on Wednesday: 90% of Zone 8 clubs voted Yes. Within District 9800, the proposal secured overwhelming support with 98.44% of clubs voting Yes. I’m very pleased to note that every club voted.
The willingness of our members to embrace our evolving circumstances by trying new approaches is incredibly heartening, and inspires me with confidence for the future of our projects, clubs and movement. No doubt, this was envisaged by Paul Harris when he proclaimed, “This is a changing world, we must be prepared to change with it.The story of Rotary will have to be written again and again.” If ever we needed licence to have a red hot go at new approaches, this is it.
Terrific evening with Westside cluster clubs of Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh, Rotary Caroline Springs, Rotary Eynesbury, Rotary Club of Melton and Rotary Club of Melton Valley, talking Growth Action Plan (growmyclub.org), club projects and packing 100 soup kits for the local foodbank.
As soon as the Hobson Bay cluster members saw a table of soup kits waiting to be packed they jumped straight in - we didn’t have to ask! Before the meeting had officially started, 100 food packs were done waiting to be taken by the various clubs to local charities and food banks. It was so much fun to join members in a meaningful, hands-on and convenient project that everyone could get involved in.
Posted by District Director of Service, Lili Teichman
Volunteering runs through the veins of our Rotarians, and in September, Volunteering with the DG involved two shifts of volunteers helping the Afghan Community to sort, pack, and box household items donated from all over Melbourne.
Posted by District International Service Chair, Stuart McIntyre
Do you believe that you can make a difference in the campaign to control the spread of malaria? The position of District 9800 RAM Supervisor has been vacant for some time and RAM Southern Region is keen to hear from an interested party to assume this position on behalf of District 9800.
Thanks to the efforts of Rotarians and volunteers from GlaxoSmithKline, the area at the rear of Kew Rotary Club's Fair Trade shop at 650 High St East Kew was transformed from a rather overgrown space into a potential haven for bees following an onsite working “bee”.
Posted by District Club Service Chair, Rosemary Waghorne
On 27th September FORaMEAL food packs to make 100,000 nutritious meals were transported to Rotary’s Donations in Kind warehouse. The packs will be collected by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and sent via Poland to the people of Ukraine. The shipment will also include 6 pallets of medical and surgical supplies supplied and packed by the Ukrainian Association of Melbourne and DIK, and, as a special request, underpants, that were sourced from all over Melbourne.
DG Amanda Wendt recently joined Woodend Rotarians and friends to celebrate the opening of the club’s Rotary centenary project, Rotary Rocks on Five Mile Creek. The project is the culmination of two years’ work supported by the Rotary Foundation.
The District 9800 Speakers Bank assists clubs to source interesting and diverse speakers to enhance their weekly meeting program. There are many interesting and varied speakers on the list.
For many years, Rotary District 3181 has organised an International Motorcycle Ride/Drive event – Ride for Rotary, in India. The aim of the event is to promote International fellowship and exchange of Rotary views. The last six events have been an overwhelming success. More than 100 participants from 15 different countries have attended the event and have had wonderful experiences to take home. [Photo:www.rideforrotary.org]
From October 1st to 31st Rotarians and friends are being encouraged, once again, to take action to raise awareness, funds, and support to end poliomyelitis, a vaccine-preventable disease that still threatens the children of the world today.
October is Mental Health month and World Mental Health Day, October 10th, is approaching fast.
Each year, Rotarians and friends make an amazing contribution to raising funds for much needed mental health research through Australian Rotary Health (ARH). From 2022, the focus is on improving the mental health of children 0-12 years old.
As Rotarians, we know that when we engage people in meaningful, convenient and fun hands-on volunteering, we demonstrate that Rotarians are indeed “People of Action”. In mid-September, this message found an even wider audience when Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network (RIMERN) volunteer, Ros McMaster was announced as the Westfield Local Hero for the Airport West Shopping Centre, winning $20,000 for RIMERN towards the cost of its first van!
The GardenDesignFest is the biggest open garden weekend event in Victoria. Keep 12 -13 and 19-20 November 2022 free. The popular bi-annual event is on again in 2022 following its cancellation during COVID. It is now more important than ever to get out and enjoy nature in a beautiful garden setting.
Welcome to the end of month two – so much to celebrate already!
Hands on volunteering projects already connecting with new volunteers from across our community, celebrating Rotary’s vocational advantage with six awards for outstanding mentorship, two fun and rewarding DG official cluster visits, so many clubs adding new members, record amounts of members engaging with our new capability platform growmyclub.org, and International Convention gracing *our* town in May.
Truly, our members are people of action. Read on for the good oil.
On Saturday 13 August we held our second Volunteering with the DG event - what a fabulous day of volunteering and togetherness it was!
Impact for Women ran two shifts to accommodate all the participants, connecting with lots of ‘new’ volunteers from across our community, to pack and sort gifts into Bags of Love, prepared for victims of domestic abuse.
Volunteering with the DG at Impact for Women had a profound effect on those who attended and felt that ‘buzz of contribution’ in making a difference. We had a huge contingent of volunteers of varying ages and cultures participate, some travelling far and wide to share in giving back to the community, some Rotarians and many who were new to us. An incredibly meaningful experience.
An absolutely heartfelt cause for us as Rotarians to participate in. Click more to hear directly from some of the volunteers of the impact the day had on them.
Fun official DG visit with Heritage Cluster clubs Rotary Club of Carlton, Rotary Club of Collingwood Australia, Fitzroy and Rotary Club of Richmond Inc. Over 60 members, partners and corporate sponsors came together to help grow their clubs to make an even bigger difference for their community.
District and club recognitions to made to members, club presidents gave an update on their activities for the year and in true form, we did a hands-on volunteering activity packing 100 soup kits for local Afghan families.
Heritage Cluster Clubs, Carlton, Fitzroy, Collingwood and Richmond liaised with secondary schools in their area to select 20 students to attend the Nelson Mandela Youth Leadership Summit. The Summit provided a positive environment to empower the youth present to believe that change was possible. This was borne out in the comments of Princes Hill Secondary College students: “Great opportunity to meet like-minded people to discuss some generational type plans and share hope and optimism.” (Thomas, Year 10). “So many different speakers leading the way on leadership, hope and optimism. Thanks so much. Awesome.” (Celeste, Year 8)
Members of Rotary Passport Melbourne and other Rotary District 9800 Rotarians were in attendance on the 7th August 2022 when Rotary District 3350 Governor Iida Mitsutaka inducted 54(!!) Rotaractors into the newly-chartered Rotaract Club of Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Rather than waste time, energy, and funding to develop own separate International projects, the Rotary Clubs of Keilor and Keilor East chose to become partners in an existing International Project. The two adjoining clubs became partners in RAWCS Project No 114-2005-06 Tonga Dental Health Project, which also utilizes the quality material available from our Donations In Kind Store. This is an excellent option for many Clubs as it allows them to be involved at a level that suits the Club.
Students need to know how to present themselves to secure a job interview, and have the skills to land that job once an interview is granted. Rotary Club of Richmond decided to invest in helping to prepare young people for a successful life. In collaboration with Melbourne Girls’ College, the club adopted the successful Mock Job Interview project, which has been going for around 20 years.
The Rotary SAFE Families website now has Guides translated in 6 languages. The Guides were created for YOU and YOUR Club to download, print and give to your neighbourhood migrant/refugee communities who may not be fluent in the English language.
Rotary Central Melbourne (RCM) member Mawien Ariik (known as Ariik) was born in 1989 in the village of Lou Ariik, South Sudan. At the age of eight, he learned that his father (Ariik Dut) had died in the South Sudan war along with millions of others while fighting for the freedom of his people. This tragic loss became Ariik’s motivation to continue the legacy of freedom that his father fought for, and to ensure those efforts were not in vain.
In the middle of a long Melbourne winter, Rotarians and friends of Essendon Rotary, in conjunction with The Living Room – Youth Projects were able to provide some warmth and comfort to the homeless in the city. With the assistance of a Rotary Foundation Grant sleeping bags were distributed to 130 rough sleepers.
The Rotary world mourns the passing of Judith Durham AO and Paul Harris Fellow. Judith was a great Australian, generous with her time in caring for others and a friend of Rotary.
At an age when most singers have well and truly retired, Merlyn Quaife lived up to her aim of being a “fearless soprano” by celebrating a significant birthday with a demanding but astutely constructed program of art song reflecting her career-long advocacy of Australian music. Her fearlessness was demonstrated from the outset in Johanna Selleck’s The Prospect and Bower of Bliss, settings of texts by the Restoration poet and proto-feminist Aphra Behn, where she unwaveringly traversed the highly strung, sinuously chromatic vocal lines, while not losing sight of the score’s celebration of “sweet and ravishing” things.
After being contacted by Linda Widdup from Aussie Hay Runners seeking assistance to obtain a fuel subsidy from the NSW Government Rural Assistance for a Hay Run to support the farmers in Grafton affected by the devastating floods, Rotary Melton’s then President Dickson Heaney Dickson spent hours completing an application and was rewarded with $392,250.00 to assist with transport of the convoy just one way. Filling up with diesel at Temora on the return journey to Victoria cost us $1,940 just to top up and about $5,000 for the return trip.
By now you would have heard about Regionalisation via the several articles in RDU, social media or websites. Things have changed as the preparation has progressed and previously held opinions may be inaccurate, so ensure you are up to date by finding out more.
There are ample opportunities to learn more about Regionalisation. Learn the facts from fellow Rotarians in your district with a club visit, attend a webinar or via a recorded presentation link.
Rotary North Balwyn is coordinating a program to assist newly arrived refugee families by supplying donated household goods, warm bedding, clothes, toys and furniture to supplement what they receive from government to help them settle in more comfortably. Involvement began though Bakhtar Community Organisation, a group of Afghan volunteers based in Dandenong who were helping new arrivals after the fall of Kabul in August 2021.
Imagine the opportunities to grow your club by connecting with more volunteers from across our community through a meaningful, hands-on and convenient project.
Just three weeks in to our new Rotary year, we held our first workshop on hands on volunteering on Saturday 23 July. Leaders of several successful projects shared how ensuring their projects are meaningful, hands on and convenient has helped them connect with more volunteers. Working groups collaborated on various aspects of how to start or adapt a project that more volunteers want to participate in, each led by an expert project lead. Plus, we ran a hands on project in the background, packing over 100 meal kits for families in need.
At the Rotary Club of Balwyn changeover in June, Chris Finely was completely surprised to be recognised with a Paul Harris Fellow. His citation included:
six hour shifts on duty at the Camberwell Sunday Market
dedicated mentor for one for our indigenous tertiary scholars throughout the scholar’s undergraduate degree
volunteering at Rotary Inner Melbourne Relief Network and the Box Hill Mini Steam Rail
collecting food from Second Bite
volunteering at Alzheimer’s Australia
does the Great Cycle Challenge for kid’s cancer research each year
if that is not enough, he disappears in his caravan for a couple weeks from time to time to volunteer with Blaze aid
This is a Rotarian who last year felt he should offer his resignation because he attended very few meetings. His offer was of course immediately rejected. Chris is “doing Rotary”.
The Rotary Leadership Institute Program presents a wonderful opportunity for experienced Rotarians, new members and indeed people interested in finding out more about Rotary to take some time to experience the history, current and new initiatives related to this great organisation we call Rotary.
McKinsey Consulting has published timely data on why employees quit their jobs. Not surprisingly, Rotary membership offers fantastic benefits that younger professionals won’t necessarily experience in their workplace. This is our opportunity to convert more volunteers into members, and partner with employers to supplement their employee value proposition, all while engaging and retaining our more experienced members. Discover:
How our vocational advantage can help convert volunteer participants into Rotary members
Why clubs should partner with employers to supplement their employee value proposition and create a membership pipeline
How this will help engage and retain existing, more experienced Rotarians
Rotary District 9800 is celebrating the relationship between a mentor and protégé that makes for effective mentorship, develops community leadership and instills our next generation of leaders with Rotary values, by awarding District Governor Mentorship Awards at Official DG Cluster visits.
We’re seeking nominations by younger Rotary members, who are being mentored by a more experienced Rotarian, of their effective mentorship, nominate at growmyclub.org/mentorship-award
Following news of the severe flooding in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, Rochester Rotary Club members enlisted their local community to assist three needy communities in the region. Donations of kitchen, bathroom, and laundry products flowed in to assist in the post flood recovery of waterlogged homes – in all, 120 boxes were filled.
Through a WASH project, Rotary Passport Melbourne and Rotary Club of Kathmandu (RPM) (in partnership with the Rotary Foundation) recently completed construction of gender specific toilets at the Shree Sunali Public School in Lumbini Province, Nepal which enabled young women reaching puberty to remain at school.
Rotary Caulfield’s Op Shop works towards sustainability by recycling the mountains of household items and materials from the mountains of waste that end up in landfill.
For example, many modern fabrics in new clothing do not decompose (and if they do, it takes a long, long time).
So, donate your wearable clothes to Op Shops such as the one run by Rotary Caulfield. Why not add to your wardrobe by shopping at your local Op Shop.
Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network (RIMERN) needs a VAN, so what better way to raise funds amongst Rotarians and friends than to launch their own wine range, three VAN ROUGE & three VAN BLANC!
Great value, quality Australian wines with their own distinctive RIMERN label are now available for online order, delivered to your door anywhere in Australia except Northern Territory.
The NewWoodend Star is a monthly community paper published by the Rotary Club of Woodend. It has become the Club’s highest-profile and most enduring contribution to the community.
It provides visibility for Rotary Woodend and our projects and is a fantastic way to promote Rotary International.
Scott wanted paid work but because he had an intellectual disability, applying for jobs online as part of a competitive interviewing process didn’t work well for him.
He had been told by Disability Services that the best place for him to work would be a segregated workshop with low wages and no chance of career advancement.
Over the last three years, Rotary Hoppers Crossing's International Committee has provided funding to sponsor eight (8) scholarships for poor, orphaned children in Pakistan.
These scholarships aim to transform the lives of students who otherwise would not be able to pay for tuition. The scholarship program involves collaborating with the Ghazali Educational Trust (GET) which is actively involved in running schools for disadvantaged students in Pakistan. These scholarships enable the students to graduate at the end of the 3-year program.
How did the seed of an idea to run a small local concert in North Melbourne to raise funds for the Ukraine crisis, grow into a concert in the Melbourne Town Hall, with over 700 people attending and raising so far $29,000?
As I (Ted) was singing with the Homebrew Verandah singers, this idea took hold that I could help my Ukraine family along with my cousins both in Poland and Ukraine. My Rotary Club loved the idea so I approached the Ukraine community, to invite their amazing choir and dance group Lehanda who also brought in the Association of Australian Ukraine in Victoria (AUV).
Rotarians and friends were excited to be together face-to-face enjoying Pies and Port at Rochester on Saturday 7th May. The consistent sound of chatter and laughter was a sign of freedom from the past two years of lockdown and wariness of being in crowded spaces. Rotary Rochester welcomed District Governor Dale Hoy and Maureen, representatives of 12 Rotary Clubs and Community members to their Pie and Port and Changeover evening.
The Pie and Port night commenced in the early 1980s as a social night for members only and has developed into an occasion known throughout Rotary District 9800.
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.
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. 
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.
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. 
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.
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.
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.
Following a meeting between the Sri Lankan Minister for Health, Senake Ameresinghe and Pubudu De Goysa from Rotary Colombo, Dr Harsha Gunasekara, President of the National Stroke Association, and PP Peter Cribb of Flemington Kensington Rotary, a partnership project was planned, with the assistance of RARE SA and Rotary Donations in Kind, to deliver medical equipment to fit-out stroke units in nine Sri Lankan hospitals.
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.
Hosted by Australian National University and University of Queensland, assisted by Rotary Australia, the NYSF is a science and technology chance of a lifetime for 460 young people from across Australia who are immersed in STEM, the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. Simeon, a student at Mount Alexander College in Flemington travelled to the Canberra event representing Rotary Flemington Kensington and Charlotte, a student at Penleigh and Essendon Grammar chose to travel to Brisbane where she was most interested in the biology sessions.
In November 2024, the Rotary Club of Chadstone/East Malvern held its third “Sleeping Out Rough for the Homeless” event. Past President, Michele Kennedy, once again organised this event and each year we have managed to raise more money than the previous year.. Thanks to our sponsors – and the adventurous sleepers and their sponsors we raised a record $35,681.00. At a special dinner on 26 February, the proceeds from the event were donated to South Port Housing (SPHG).
“Perfect in every way" is how Rochester’s ‘Songs at the Silos’ is being described. Perfect weather, perfect location and perfect performers. Over 500 people enjoyed a wonderful night of opera and musical theatre performed by artists from Opera Australia and a local talent, Evie Scoble. Rochester was thrilled and privileged to enjoy the talents of Adam Millar, Eleanor Blythman, Karen van Spall and DG Michael Lapina: Alex and Mikey Lapina also sang in the encore and Kew Rotarian, Jonathan Shepherd was the MC.
On 22 February, the Rotary Club of Chadstone/East Malvern once again provided the catering for the Melbourne Henley Regatta. Despite the sweltering heat, 18 members of the Club turned up to load the equipment, set up the marquees, tables, BBQs and cook up a storm for the participants and onlookers at this amazing event.
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.
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.
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. 
In a heartwarming display of community support and the power of Rotary, the Rotary Club of Melton Valley has stepped up to enhance the educational experience of students at Toolern Vale Primary School. 
Rotary Safe Families (RSF) has now been given a great opportunity to expand its outreach into the global Rotary international network. 
District 9800 Sponsorships for Calgary & Adelaide 
Rotary's monthly themes are meant to highlight the wide range of Rotary's good work and give clubs some suggestions, timing and guidance for their programs and activities. Thanks to the work of Cath Stahel of Balwyn Rotary, District 9800 has its own monthly graphic. The following is a list of the themes. There are a number of other sources of graphics (including on myrotary.org 
Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) is a 12-month international experience for 16 year olds providing cultural, social, educational and language immersion in a safe, supportive home hosting environment. Each year, hundreds of teenagers from countries across the globe take up the offer of the adventure of a lifetime where they develop independence, life skills and lifelong friendships.
The Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour D9800 in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Canal Estate D9110, Lagos, Nigeria, joined forces to provide school writing materials for kids in a local school in Okata in Lagos, unlocking words and giving children the joy of reading.
Rotary Central Melbourne’s (RCM) 2024 Silk Miller Scholar, acting Senior Sergeant Steve Turner’s work has been recognised at the National Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards. Steve’s project resulted in the team receiving a silver award, one of nine awards presented by Federal-Attorney General, Hon. Mark Dreyfus KC MP, at a ceremony held in Parliament House, Canberra on 12 November 2024.
From humble beginnings, the Rotary Overseas Repurposed/Relocated Playgrounds (RORP) project has given children’s playgrounds no longer needed in Australia a second life. Thanks to the tireless efforts of passionate Rotarians and friends, what started as a small initiative – where Rotary teams physically dismantling playgrounds in local municipalities – has now grown into an industry-recognised enterprise.
Applications for 2026 Rotary Peace Fellowships are now open until May 15, 2025.
Discover the transformative power of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) with Reimagine Belonging, the official podcast of Rotary District 9800.
Creating a sense of belonging from the moment a prospective member expresses interest in joining a Club is key to helping them become a long-term member.
Rotary SAFE Families, created by Dorothy Gilmour, President of Rotary, has become a global peace project, providing its resources to Rotary Clubs around the world in its endeavours to prevent family violence.
The Melbourne Celtic Festival, Port Phillip Rotary’s flagship event, heads into its fourth year with a stacked local and international lineup across three indoor stages and one charming garden stage at the iconic Mission to Seafarers Victoria, in the heart of the city. The event which took out a Rotary District 9800 Community Service Award in 2024 consists of 11 hours of entertainment on St Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17 from 12pm – 11pm. The Melbourne Celtic Festival aims to unite through the power of Celtic music, dance, food and great Craic!
If you are poor and uneducated in Myanmar your prospects for employment and a chance to improve your life are zero. Even worse than that, you can be preyed upon by child traffickers for the purposes of organ theft! Through the support of Essendon Rotary and a Rotary District Foundation Grant, some children from a Yangon slum will get the opportunity to learn practical skills leading to gainful employment.
How would you feel if your daughter or granddaughter had to miss school during menstruation due to inadequate facilities? Thanks to twelve new menstrual health management (MHM) toilets now under construction in a Cambodian Kampong, girls will be able to attend school whilst mentruating. Supported by a District Grant from the Rotary Foundation, the Rotary Club of Camberwell has partnered with the Running Water Project Cambodia to deliver these facilities.
Helen Keller’s words: Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much perfectly capture the essence of Rotary’s recent involvement in a Rotary International Global Grant in Cambodia. By installing WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure and leading educational workshops in 11 rural schools in Siem Reap province, so much has been done to make a lasting impact on over 5,000 students and community members!
As we draw closer to the end of the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past month and all that we've achieved together through the Magic of Rotary. December has been a whirlwind of activity, celebration, and collaboration—a fitting conclusion to an incredible year.
On 17 December, the people of Vanuatu were struck by a devastating earthquake that has left widespread destruction in its wake. Homes have been destroyed, communities disrupted, and countless individuals and families face a long road to recovery. In times of crisis, Rotary’s global network of compassion and action shines brightest, and District 9800 is stepping up to provide support to those impacted.
Small Comforts from Community is a collaboration of Clubs within Rotary District 9800: a social impact project the success of which is reflected in the fact that this initiative has recently expanded. In addition to providing care bags and clothing to The Alfred and Upton House (Eastern Health), we now also distribute care bags to patients at the Royal Melbourne and St Vincent’s Hospitals. Over 1,500 care packs are provided each year to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, people being admitted to mental health wards in our local hospitals.
Please be aware that Rotary Club and District officials will never ask you to purchase gift cards via email or text, especially in an unexpected or secret request with instructions to call and verify. Rotary members should continue to exercise caution: Disregard any suspicious message that offers money, requests money, or asks for your personal information. Avoid opening attachments or following links in suspicious messages
Rotary Central Melbourne again held their successful Paul Harris Breakfast Foundation event for nearly 35 years and this year's on 12 November was not different. President Rhys welcomed all guests with a special mention of guests from Victoria Police Legacy: Chair Kate O’Neill and Community Engagement Coordinator Bob Raaymakers, and highlighted the partnership between Rotary Central Melbourne (RCM), Victoria Police Legacy (VPL) and World of Difference and the second Legatee Cambodian Tour, currently underway. He also reminded of the purpose of this marquee annual event, hosted by RCM: to raise funds for The Rotary Foundation.
In October, Rotary Flemington Kensington was delighted to attend this year’s Victorian Senior of the Year Awards at Government House. Past President Peter Cribb was nominated and shortlisted for an award. He received the Victorian Senior - COTA Award: it was a delight to know that Peter was recognised for his many years of volunteer service and his inspiring leadership of so many Rotary programs and activities.
Held across Australia, in partnership with Rotary, RYDA supports teachers on the journey as they provide their students with the tools and understanding they need to see themselves as active, responsible road citizens. RYDA provides students with the tools, habits and motivation to take action and stay safe on our roads as both drivers and passengers throughout their lives. In District 9800, Rotary Flemington Kensington has sponsored 125 students from a local secondary school to participate in the program.
Helen Keller’s words ring loud and clear with the Rotary Club of Keilor East and Rotary Passport Melbourne!! Joined by the Rotary Clubs of Melbourne, Balwyn and with support from Rotary District 9800 and The Rotary Foundation, two District International Grants are being implemented in Siem Reap Cambodia. Each grant is supporting the construction of WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) infrastructure at four rural schools, bringing clean water and sanitation solutions to more than 3,000 students and surrounding community members!
November has been a dynamic month for District 9800, with inspiring events and impactful initiatives continuing to shape our Rotary year. Each interaction and milestone has further highlighted the passion and dedication that defines our district. Here’s a look at some of the key activities and updates this month:
Exciting news! Registration for the Multi District Impact Summit are now 
Chronic teacher shortages, underfunding and troubled students are increasing the pressure on an overextended workforce, so the 2024 Hobsons Bay Rotary Education Awards, organised by Rotary Altona City, have never been more timely. These awards honour those who go beyond their remit to make a difference to the lives of students and colleagues.
In a partnership with Cabanatuan City Rotary, Werribee Rotary completed two productive projects in the Philippines. In September 2024 a very successful WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene) project was completed at the Ibona Elementary School at Dingalan, on the east coast of Luzon. The school is in a low-income village area, with 600 children and 19 classrooms. As the school's piped water supply system was no longer operational and the childred needed to carry buckets of water to their classroom each day to flush the toilet in the small 'comfort room' at the rear of their classroom, Cabanatuan City RC had proposed a WASH Project to ensure safe and clean piped water.
Rotary’s long legacy is peppered with important milestones and seasons. One to be celebrated is our Rotary Port Philip and former Melbourne South member and treasure, Joan Daniels. Joan’s husband joined Rotary in 1977 and died shortly thereafter. However, her connection to Rotary remained.
Thirty years ago, the Lions Club of Essendon organised the first "I Love Australia" breakfast to recognise Australia Day and to promote the Made in Australia campaign. When the local Lions Club were seeking to hand over the management of the event, the Rotary Club of Essendon North decided to continue this iconic event in the City of Moonee Valley calendar.
Garden DesignFest is a biennial fundraising event organised by the Rotary Clubs of Kew and Brighton North, featuring the work of professional garden designers in an open garden format. On Saturday, November 16th and Sunday November 17th, gardens across Melbourne and on the Mornington Peninsula will be open from 10.00am until 5.00pm.
As the Rotary Club of Yarraville prepares for its fourth annual Acknowledgement Day on January 26th, 2025, we invite all Australians to come together in unity and purpose. This day is an opportunity to celebrate our shared commitment to moving forward together while honouring the rich cultural heritage of the First Peoples of this land, including the Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung peoples, who have nurtured and cared for this country for thousands of years.
Recently, Parliament House in Canberra hosted a gala dinner to celebrate the beginnings of National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) 40 years ago. Alumni, past Rotary District Chairs and politicians attended the event where Governor General Sam Mostyn spoke of the organisation, its importance and the achievements of its alumni.
Well, Mother Nature still finds ways to surprise us, doesn't she? ‘A Winter Wonderland’ in September wasn't on our Bingo card, but Castlemaine turned it on for us anyway.
Walk with Us in October to raise money for the End Polio Campaign. Register yourself, walk as an individual or form a Team with family, friends and club members to support Rotary’s priority project: to eradicate polio from the world. You can walk at your own pace over the month with your kms and fundraising dollars recorded on the Walk with Us website - 
Applications for District 9800 Year 11-12 Scholarship Grants open for qualified clubs on October 1st, 2024. The Grants are provided through The Rotary Foundation in support of scholarships offered by clubs to local schools for the 2025-2026 school years. The scholarships have been enormously successful in assisting talented and motivated students facing financial hardship to complete their secondary education, and in helping clubs build stronger relationships with local schools.
What do 45 clubs from 4 districts, 200 plus attendees and representatives from Government, community organisations, health services and banks have in common? It’s the 2024 Donations in Kind Open Day showcasing the Magic of Rotary in action.
Michael's Magical Minute: A Spark of Inspiration for Rotarians Everywhere
National Tree Day Sunday 28 July saw five clubs in the Maribyrnong Valley Community Group partner with Moonee Valley Council for a huge tree planting exercise. Presidents and members from Brunswick-Tullamarine, Flemington-Kensington, Keilor East and North Melbourne joined with Rotary Footscray and braved the clear but wintery conditions to restore, replenish and extend the habitat lost during the 2022 floods of the Maribyrnong River.
The Rotary Club of Melbourne (Rotary Melbourne), and Gender and Disaster Australia (GADAus), have agreed to work together in partnership with Districts and Clubs in disaster prone areas to pilot and roll out the GADAus Lessons in Disaster (LIDs) training. This training aims to enhance Rotarians understanding of family violence in disaster contexts and leveraging their local knowledge and skills to foster safer, more resilient communities.An opportunity to participate in Lessons in Disaster training is on 18th August hosted by Rotary Club of Bendigo South.
It is with immense gratitude and humility that I accept the role of the new Governor of District 9800. My experiences with Rotary have been nothing short of magical. 
With the support of a District 9800 Foundation Grant The Rotary Club of Essendon was able to work with the organisation Youth Projects, Hosier Lane, to provide warm clothing and jackets for people experiencing homelessness on Melbourne's streets.
When Rotary Hawthorn awarded its inaugural Service to Senior’s Award to the recipient, Margot Boyle, there was certainly no expectation that this would involve the audience singing along to a three part “Fish and Chips and Vinegar”! Through great control, MC Dorothy Gilmour kept it together and Rotarians and guests found themselves in sync with the joyful shanty.
What a privilege! Rotarians meeting, conversing, laughing and sharing beautiful African, Indian and Malaysian cuisine with 75 inspirational women and three men at the Changepreneurs’ International Women’s Day Event 2024.
On the morning of Saturday 25 May 2024, a significant landslide levelled a village in the Enga Province of PNG. 
Rotary Hoppers Crossing recently completed an exciting project that will help provide a better standard of health care for hospitalized patients in three African countries – Ghana, Uganda, and Nigeria. The project involved sending high-quality surgical instruments to health clinics and hospitals in the three countries.
We are now beginning to move into the ‘Change’ stages of the Regionalisation Pilot that will see us ready for a revised approach to be implemented from 1 July. 
Last chance to order your Rotary Fruit Cakes and Puddings to raise money for The Rotary Foundation.
It’s not every day you can manage disease prevention, save the environment and see the locals smile with one simple project. Rotary Essendon took on that big job with just one machine and one chair - and people in Nairobi’s Mukuru Kwa Reuben slums are the winners. 
In the lead-up to International Men’s Day (IMD) 2023, and in line with Rotary International President Gordon McInally’s focus on Mental Health, on November 17, Rotary Caroline Springs held a fundraising dinner to recognize community champions. Local organisations nominated people within their organisations to acknowledge their contribution and achievements in recognising mental health issues in the community.
The Timor Leste Rotary Consortium team of Vijay Susarla and Justine Paragreen has returned from Timor-Leste, on a scoping trip for the next stage of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Project. As part of the trip for the next stage of the WASH Project, they undertook due diligence and assessment of potential sites for toilet blocks and water tanks in several villages, such as Triloka as the project expands into Manatuto, Viqueque and other parts of Baucau Districts in Timor Leste.
District 9800 has welcomed its latest Global Scholar, Haruka Tanaka, from Japan who arrived in Melbourne on 10 July and is being hosted by Flemington Kensington Rotary. Tanaka is undertaking a Master’s Degree in Education – Development Studies, at the University of Melbourne.
Sponsored by Rotary Bendigo and fully supported by members of Rotary Rochester, a group of Rochester men recently enjoyed an outing designed as a diversion from the ongoing and unwished-for chores post the major flooding that occurred in October 2022.
We know that Rotary Clubs support members and their families across significant life events, including births, deaths, milestone celebrations, and professional transitions. Recognising that the arrival of a new family member can impact a Rotarian’s availability and motivation to engage in volunteer activities, clubs have a particular challenge to maintain engagement – and ultimately membership – of members during the ‘family rearing’ years. 
The Rotary Balwyn Centenary Grants program (
Education fuels innovation and progress. That's why Rotary members encourage lifelong learning, exchanging ideas and inspiring generations of problem solvers.
We all know that kindness is part of Rotary’s DNA, however, when two extraordinary stories of kindness emerged from Castlemaine Rotary’s 34th Truck Show held in late 2022, a short 6-minute film was produced to promote better understanding of the event.
Members of the Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour have created a great project to celebrate motherhood. On the 13th of May 2023, club members, joined by Rotarians from other clubs and friends of Rotary, came together to assemble 400 birthing kits.
A research team at Latrobe University Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, headed by Dr Adam Culvenor, is conducting clinical trials and research projects to investigate new ways to prevent knee osteoarthritis and improve the lives of people with knee pain and osteoarthritis. The team is looking for adults aged over 45 years with knee pain to participate in the study. 
Huge congratulations and thank you to each and every one of our members who helped make Rotary International Convention number 114 the success that it was. 
What an effort from the Rotary Club of Canterbury FORaMEAL team and the 80% of club members who provided their support for the Federation Square Big Difference packing event on 27 May where 100,000 meals were packed; and also at RICON23 House of Friendship where another 70,000 meals were packed – a total of 170,000 meals over 5 days.
Richard developed his passion for volunteering beginning with Round Table International in South Africa where he served as Regional Chair. 
The Peace Team at the Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour presented the club’s Peace Essay Project at the Peace Park in the ‘House of Friendship’ at the Rotary International Convention at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. 
A project of the Hoppers Crossing Rotary Club’s International Committee was successfully concluded at the recent Rotary International Convention. Pre-convention planning resulted in the gifting of high value surgical instruments to health clinics and hospitals in Ghana, Uganda and Nigeria. 
It was a truly international night when Rotary Canterbury hosted Rotarians from 20 clubs to a dinner at Amora Hotel. Guests included Rotarians from sister clubs in the Philippines, from several African countries, from the USA, from England and from several interstate clubs. A highlight of the night was a celebration of the club’s vital contribution, led by Doug Hawley and Nora Ley, to the success of The Big Difference FORaMEAL food packing event at Federation Square. 
In the darkness of night, along the leafy streets of Hawthorn, two Ubers slipped away, taking their passengers to their hotels in Central Melbourne. One Uber contained an Indian man, a Hindu by birth, and his Iranian partner, a Muslim by birth. In the second Uber were two Indonesian women. One was Chinese by birth and instinctively Catholic in outlook, whilst her friend was Buddhist. Of the couple waving them goodbye into the night, one was, by upbringing, English and Anglican and the other, by upbringing, Australian and Catholic. 
As part of the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne (RICON23), Monday 29th May was Home Hosting evening. The Rotary club of Yarraville President Jebadiah Annear and his husband Grant Carlson (First Husband's Committee Chair), hosted 22 people for dinner at their home in the western suburb of Brooklyn, Victoria
When Siem Reap Rotaractors Doeb, Lita, Phanich, Sokal and Tola stepped off the plane at Tullamarine, they knew they were on a trip which would change their lives forever. Less than 12 hours later, they were guest speakers at the Rotary Club of Keilor East, sharing the impact of education and mentoring on their lives.
The 7th pillar of Rotary, Environmental Sustainability, was well represented at events prior to and during RICON. 
On the Saturday before the Rotary International Convention, District 9800 hosted The Big Difference: a day to pack 100,000 meals in FORaMEAL emergency relief food packs to send to people in need worldwide. 
Every picture tells a story, and there were MANY stories to tell of RICON 23. From pre-convention events like The Big Difference and the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) Action summit and environmental tours; to the Convention opening with its magical flagbearer ceremony; plenary sessions; breakout sessions; and the booths in the House of Friendship, there was so much to see, so many friends, old and new to meet and so much to learn. 
Rotarians and guests are invited to the opening by Lord Mayor, Sally Capp of the Rotary Peace Bells at Rotary Melbourne Peace Park.
ROMAC (Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children) is a not-for-profit humanitarian organisation run entirely with volunteers. Established more than 35 years ago in District 9800, it is now a project of Rotary Districts in Australia and New Zealand. 
Walk through beautiful Melbourne to End Polio Now. This is a RICON23 event to raise further awareness and funds to eradicate Polio and will be a pleasant way to spend an Autumn evening. 
Saturday 27 May at Fed Square
Welcome to new members of our just-chartered club Rotary Activate Victoria Club. Rotary Activate has signed 22 new members for the District, and three transferring members. The new ‘Activators’ have already been out in force volunteering at Avalon Centre helping to sort goods for those experiencing homelessness.
Rotary’s 7th area of focus was established to prioritise care for the environment and is the foundation for Rotary’s other 6 areas of focus. In celebration of World Environment Day, you are most warmly invited to join Rotarians from around the District and the Region for a luncheon, on 17th May at the Sofitel on Collins, highlighting a very special environmental theme: the Circular Economy. 
The Rotary Club of Bendigo South has been supporting Projects in Cambodia and assisting the Rotary Club of Phnom Penh for many years. Our latest Project was to raise sufficient funds to assist the Club with the purchase of bicycles for poor families and libraries for school communities. 
Five months ago our Victorian regions were subjected to huge flooding with the town of Rochester was particularly impacted. Rochie is now ready for us to provide assistance so it’s time to head over there, roll up our sleeves and do some serious volunteering. 
Rotary clubs often lose track of potential youth leaders once they graduate from youth projects. The Rotary club of Hoppers Crossing has found a way to retain these links through the introduction of a young people’s networking group: Rotary Youth Projects Alumni, or RYPA. 
In many parts of the world it is a common experience for girls to miss school for up to six days per month during menstruation because of poor sanitation and hygiene, stigmatisation and infection.
The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity is conducting a study of an experimental influenza (flu) vaccine using new mRNA technology and is seeking healthy adults 65 years and older. 
Rotary’s Council on Resolutions and Council on Legislation give Rotary members a voice in how our organisation is governed. 
Donations in Kind (DIK) - What's it all about? Find out at the 2023 Open Day, Satuturday 18th March 10am-3pm.
Rotary Bendigo’s Starthrower Wellbeing Project, hosting 6 women last week from flood devastated Rochester, was fabulous and heart-warming. 
After a lot of planning and preparation the Rotary Clubs of Caulfield and Elsternwick (not yet chartered) have started the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Community Market. The inaugural Market, with over 120 stall holders, was held on February 5th 2023 and was alive with people, stalls and dogs. 
As a result of their government requiring traditional Muslim education, girls and young women in Afghanistan lost their broader education dreams. They have lost their right to determine their own future; and have lost the capacity to inspire their children. Rotary Carlton will use the internet to change this.
The Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) is organising a diverse range of activities for convention delegates, prior to and during the Rotary International Convention in May 2023. 
On Sunday 5 February, members of District 9800 rolled up their sleeves and partnered with members from Rotary clubs in District 9780, with assistance from the President of the Rotary Club of Kerang (D9780), Gerardine Prendergast, who inspired and motivated both Rotarians and non-Rotarians to come together and volunteer to make meal kits for families who have been impacted by the floods in her region. 
Applications for the first round of 2023 Balwyn Rotary Centenary Grants close on March 31. For more information and to download the application form, go to: 
The Melbourne Celtic Festival is back on St Patrick’s Day, Friday, March 17 2023 from 12pm to 11pm at Melbourne’s iconic Mission to Seafarers, 717 Flinders Street. 
The Polio Plus Society, a fundraising and recognition program specifically to support the worldwide effort to eradicate polio, is now open to District 9800 Rotarians. 
Over 1,000 mozzie candles donated to Rotary Echuca Moama via RAWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service) will be free to the flood-affected Echuca-Moama community. 
In April 2022, Rotary Club of Richmond received a call for assistance and financial support from Thomas Williams, Head of Music at Richmond High School. The request was for funds to purchase a much needed baritone saxophone for the school, an item not provided to State Schools by the Ministry of Education.
BOOK NOW FOR THIS FREE EVENT, LIVESTREAMED 12.00-1.15pm 26th JANUARY 
In 2020 Rotary Club Chadstone/East Malvern introduced their “Sleeping out Rough Night” program, to raise not only funds, but awareness that there are people every night who only have the street to call home. 
Jean Abbey, the widow of Royce Abbey, Past President of Rotary International 1988/89, celebrated her 100th Birthday in Melbourne on the 13th of December 2022. A small family gathering with children, grandchildren and a few of her 12 great grandchildren helped celebrate the event. The following day Jean was also visited by two members representing the Rotary Club of Essendon, the club Royce joined in 1954 and remained a member until his passing in 2014.
URGENT APPEAL
DIK is desperately in need of your help! 
Check out the Dec / Jan edition of Rotary Down Under for a special District 9800 feature.
Rotary Members are invited to register for the next Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) program in March 2023.
ber 8th was a chilly but clear Saturday morning for the opening of the new playground at Victoria Park Kew, and the spirits of club members in attendance for were high. Finally, they got to dedicate the fabulous new BBQ donated to the project as the club’s contribution to all the other projects undertaken by Rotary clubs around Australia to mark the centenary of Rotary in Australia in 2021. 
Did you hear about the two blood cells that fell in love? Alas, it was all in vein! 
Rotary’s Council on Resolutions (COR) and Council on Legislation (COL) give us a voice in how our organisation is governed. 
ent of FORaMEAL packs containing 100,000 meals was dispatched to the Philippines. When the shipment arrived, the packs were distributed to five strategically placed Rotary Clubs in the Philippines ready for when they would be needed following disasters such as floods and fire. It wasn’t long before that aid was needed. 
Organisers were pleased with the turnout for the End Polio Now Walk following the November Zone 8 Conference in Canberra. 87 registered walkers, including RI President Elect, Gordon McInally (holding the baton) and RI Director, Jessie Harman, enjoyed the walk in the pleasant surrounds of Lake Burley Griffin. To date, $55,000 has been raised, but further donations would be very welcome.
Around 30 Rotarians joined together to pack over 4000 meals in one hour as part of the official DG Batman cluster visit. Held in the foyer outside Red Emperor restaurant, it took only moments for 5 random pedestrians to stop, enquire about who we are, what we were doing, pull on gloves and get involved! Hands-on volunteering sells itself and what a wonderful, impactiful introduction to Rotary for these new volunteers! 
It only took members of Essendon, Essendon North, Flemington Kensington, Footscray and West Footscray a record 13 mins 41 secs to pack 100 food parcels which were delivered to local food banks, feeding 500 people in need. Gateway East showed what was possible with a strategic production line and a determination to beat the previous record held by Westside at 15 mins. 
One of our District’s best success stories, For-A-Meal has provided well over 500,000 emergency relief meals for free to for those impacted by natural disasters. It was only natural that we hold a special volunteer with the DG day to support their mission. 
PDG Bronwyn Stephens, District Service Director Lili Teichman and myself were joined by Peter Mercer from Diversity Works and PDG Edith Chaney (D9920) to discuss what DEI means in the context of Rotary. 
In October, under the direction of PDG Ross Butterworth, volunteers rolled up their sleeves for some Hands-on Volunteering with the DG at Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN). 
The two-day Global Congress Against Malaria brings respected malaria experts, governments, NGO's, corporates, Rotarians and non-Rotarians together in Melbourne, Australia, to share, educate and discuss how to Finish the Fight Against Malaria. 
The Water for Education Project, providing four schools in Siem Reap with water filtration systems, has successfully installed a water filtration system providing one school with delicious clean, clear water. The water is available to both students and the wider community. Rotarians and friends from Australia, Cambodia and Singapore joined together to celebrate this project in action.
Bees and other pollinators are essential to maintain production of our food crops and are responsible for one in every three mouthfuls of food we eat! Over recent years there has been an alarming reduction in pollinator populations worldwide. Thanks to this enthusiastic group of bee champions, many more Rotary clubs and communities are actively engaged in fighting the decline of pollinator populations worldwide. 
Brighton, Brighton North and Caulfield clubs had a very successful night building new friendships, sharing project wins and discovering ways to collaborate at the official DG Beachside Cluster visit. It was the first time the three clubs have met together and to quote many of the members, 'Let's make sure its's not the last time'! 
The passing of Lawrence Atley OAM was a sad milestone for the Rotary Club of Footscray. Lawrence was a dedicated and passionate Rotarian who enjoyed and valued his time in Rotary and the friends he made there. 
The full results of the Zone 8 Regionalisation Pilot vote were shared on Wednesday: 90% of Zone 8 clubs voted Yes. Within District 9800, the proposal secured overwhelming support with 98.44% of clubs voting Yes. I’m very pleased to note that every club voted.
Terrific evening with Westside cluster clubs of Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh, Rotary Caroline Springs, Rotary Eynesbury, Rotary Club of Melton and Rotary Club of Melton Valley, talking Growth Action Plan (
As soon as the Hobson Bay cluster members saw a table of soup kits waiting to be packed they jumped straight in - we didn’t have to ask! Before the meeting had officially started, 100 food packs were done waiting to be taken by the various clubs to local charities and food banks. It was so much fun to join members in a meaningful, hands-on and convenient project that everyone could get involved in. 
Volunteering runs through the veins of our Rotarians, and in September, Volunteering with the DG involved two shifts of volunteers helping the Afghan Community to sort, pack, and box household items donated from all over Melbourne. 
Do you believe that you can make a difference in the campaign to control the spread of malaria? The position of District 9800 RAM Supervisor has been vacant for some time and RAM Southern Region is keen to hear from an interested party to assume this position on behalf of District 9800. 
Thanks to the efforts of Rotarians and volunteers from GlaxoSmithKline, the area at the rear of Kew Rotary Club's Fair Trade shop at 650 High St East Kew was transformed from a rather overgrown space into a potential haven for bees following an onsite working “bee”. 
On 27th September FORaMEAL food packs to make 100,000 nutritious meals were transported to Rotary’s Donations in Kind warehouse. The packs will be collected by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and sent via Poland to the people of Ukraine. The shipment will also include 6 pallets of medical and surgical supplies supplied and packed by the Ukrainian Association of Melbourne and DIK, and, as a special request, underpants, that were sourced from all over Melbourne.
DG Amanda Wendt recently joined Woodend Rotarians and friends to celebrate the opening of the club’s Rotary centenary project, Rotary Rocks on Five Mile Creek. The project is the culmination of two years’ work supported by the Rotary Foundation. 
From October 1st to 31st Rotarians and friends are being encouraged, once again, to take action to raise awareness, funds, and support to end poliomyelitis, a vaccine-preventable disease that still threatens the children of the world today. 
October is Mental Health month and World Mental Health Day, October 10th, is approaching fast.
As Rotarians, we know that when we engage people in meaningful, convenient and fun hands-on volunteering, we demonstrate that Rotarians are indeed “People of Action”. In mid-September, this message found an even wider audience when Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network (RIMERN) volunteer, Ros McMaster was announced as the Westfield Local Hero for the Airport West Shopping Centre, winning $20,000 for RIMERN towards the cost of its first van!
On Saturday 13 August we held our second Volunteering with the DG event - what a fabulous day of volunteering and togetherness it was! 
Fun official DG visit with Heritage Cluster clubs Rotary Club of Carlton, Rotary Club of Collingwood Australia, Fitzroy and Rotary Club of Richmond Inc. Over 60 members, partners and corporate sponsors came together to help grow their clubs to make an even bigger difference for their community.
Heritage Cluster Clubs, Carlton, Fitzroy, Collingwood and Richmond liaised with secondary schools in their area to select 20 students to attend the Nelson Mandela Youth Leadership Summit. The Summit provided a positive environment to empower the youth present to believe that change was possible. This was borne out in the comments of Princes Hill Secondary College students: “Great opportunity to meet like-minded people to discuss some generational type plans and share hope and optimism.” (Thomas, Year 10). “So many different speakers leading the way on leadership, hope and optimism. Thanks so much. Awesome.” (Celeste, Year 8) 
Members of Rotary Passport Melbourne and other Rotary District 9800 Rotarians were in attendance on the 7th August 2022 when Rotary District 3350 Governor Iida Mitsutaka inducted 54(!!) Rotaractors into the newly-chartered Rotaract Club of Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Rather than waste time, energy, and funding to develop own separate International projects, the Rotary Clubs of Keilor and Keilor East chose to become partners in an existing International Project. The two adjoining clubs became partners in RAWCS Project No 114-2005-06 Tonga Dental Health Project, which also utilizes the quality material available from our Donations In Kind Store. This is an excellent option for many Clubs as it allows them to be involved at a level that suits the Club.
Students need to know how to present themselves to secure a job interview, and have the skills to land that job once an interview is granted. Rotary Club of Richmond decided to invest in helping to prepare young people for a successful life. In collaboration with Melbourne Girls’ College, the club adopted the successful Mock Job Interview project, which has been going for around 20 years.
Rotary Central Melbourne (RCM) member Mawien Ariik (known as Ariik) was born in 1989 in the village of Lou Ariik, South Sudan. At the age of eight, he learned that his father (Ariik Dut) had died in the South Sudan war along with millions of others while fighting for the freedom of his people. This tragic loss became Ariik’s motivation to continue the legacy of freedom that his father fought for, and to ensure those efforts were not in vain.
In the middle of a long Melbourne winter, Rotarians and friends of Essendon Rotary, in conjunction with The Living Room – Youth Projects were able to provide some warmth and comfort to the homeless in the city. With the assistance of a Rotary Foundation Grant sleeping bags were distributed to 130 rough sleepers.
At an age when most singers have well and truly retired, Merlyn Quaife lived up to her aim of being a “fearless soprano” by celebrating a significant birthday with a demanding but astutely constructed program of art song reflecting her career-long advocacy of Australian music. Her fearlessness was demonstrated from the outset in Johanna Selleck’s The Prospect and Bower of Bliss, settings of texts by the Restoration poet and proto-feminist Aphra Behn, where she unwaveringly traversed the highly strung, sinuously chromatic vocal lines, while not losing sight of the score’s celebration of “sweet and ravishing” things.
After being contacted by Linda Widdup from Aussie Hay Runners seeking assistance to obtain a fuel subsidy from the NSW Government Rural Assistance for a Hay Run to support the farmers in Grafton affected by the devastating floods, Rotary Melton’s then President Dickson Heaney Dickson spent hours completing an application and was rewarded with $392,250.00 to assist with transport of the convoy just one way. Filling up with diesel at Temora on the return journey to Victoria cost us $1,940 just to top up and about $5,000 for the return trip. 
Rotary North Balwyn is coordinating a program to assist newly arrived refugee families by supplying donated household goods, warm bedding, clothes, toys and furniture to supplement what they receive from government to help them settle in more comfortably. Involvement began though Bakhtar Community Organisation, a group of Afghan volunteers based in Dandenong who were helping new arrivals after the fall of Kabul in August 2021. 
Imagine the opportunities to grow your club by connecting with more volunteers from across our community through a meaningful, hands-on and convenient project.
At the Rotary Club of Balwyn changeover in June, Chris Finely was completely surprised to be recognised with a Paul Harris Fellow. His citation included:
The Rotary Leadership Institute Program presents a wonderful opportunity for experienced Rotarians, new members and indeed people interested in finding out more about Rotary to take some time to experience the history, current and new initiatives related to this great organisation we call Rotary.
Following news of the severe flooding in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, Rochester Rotary Club members enlisted their local community to assist three needy communities in the region. Donations of kitchen, bathroom, and laundry products flowed in to assist in the post flood recovery of waterlogged homes – in all, 120 boxes were filled.
Through a WASH project, Rotary Passport Melbourne and Rotary Club of Kathmandu (RPM) (in partnership with the Rotary Foundation) recently completed construction of gender specific toilets at the Shree Sunali Public School in Lumbini Province, Nepal which enabled young women reaching puberty to remain at school.
Rotary Caulfield’s Op Shop works towards sustainability by recycling the mountains of household items and materials from the mountains of waste that end up in landfill. 
The New Woodend Star is a monthly community paper published by the Rotary Club of Woodend. It has become the Club’s highest-profile and most enduring contribution to the community.
Scott wanted paid work but because he had an intellectual disability, applying for jobs online as part of a competitive interviewing process didn’t work well for him. 
Over the last three years, Rotary Hoppers Crossing's International Committee has provided funding to sponsor eight (8) scholarships for poor, orphaned children in Pakistan.
How did the seed of an idea to run a small local concert in North Melbourne to raise funds for the Ukraine crisis, grow into a concert in the Melbourne Town Hall, with over 700 people attending and raising so far $29,000?
Rotarians and friends were excited to be together face-to-face enjoying Pies and Port at Rochester on Saturday 7th May. The consistent sound of chatter and laughter was a sign of freedom from the past two years of lockdown and wariness of being in crowded spaces. Rotary Rochester welcomed District Governor Dale Hoy and Maureen, representatives of 12 Rotary Clubs and Community members to their Pie and Port and Changeover evening. 
ShelterBox Australia (SBA) are seeking two experienced Rotarians to join the Board of Directors with effect from July 2022.