Welcome one and all to the start of 2026 and the second half of the 25/26 Rotary Year. Like many of you I have enjoyed a well earned break but now back into the full swing of things. Welcome one and all to the start of 2026 and the second half of the 25/26 Rotary Year. Like many of you I have enjoyed a well earned break but now back into the full swing of things. 
Congratulations to Deidre Ellen Willmott AM, Woodend Rotary and Moorabool Citizen of the year, Peter Shilton, Bacchus Marsh Rotary. Deidre's honour in the General Division was for significant service to business, and to the Parliament of Western Australia. Peter was recognised as Citizen of the Year for his work in his community (including Rotary).
An article from Trevor Bray, President Castlemaine Rotary
Rotary Castlemaine was quick to answer the call immediately following the devastating fire event that impacted the community of Harcourt on Friday 9 January. While small in footprint compared to the other Victorian fires, at least 50 homes and several business premises were completely destroyed. A major project is being scoped out to support community recovery. A major project is being scoped out to support community recovery.An article from Murray Verson, Rotary Club of Williamstown
Applications for 2027-28 Rotary Peace Fellowships will be accepted from 1 February until 15 May 2026. This year, Rotary will award up to 170 funded fellowships for experienced peacebuilders to study at one of Rotary’s eight university-based peace centres around the world.
Comments from DGE Graeme Hope and his wife Sue who attended IA in Orlando, Florida in January 2026
Approx 1,000 DGEs and partners plus Rotary Leaders & Speakers attended the International Assembly, all located at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort – a short distance from Orlando. The size of the Resort required an energetic walk from your room to the conference facilities. The program was tight, starting with a Reception on Sunday 11 January. A four- day hectic schedule followed. Breakfast to Dinner (a different theme each night).An article from Dorothy Gilmour, Hawthorn Rotary
Rotary SAFE Families is excited to create a “win win” for Rotary Clubs and their local schools. “Towards Respectful Relationships” has young people talking to young people about respectful relationships and family violence including promoting healthy non-abusive family relationships.
An article from Katrina Flinn, Rotary Hawthorn
Unsafe drinking water remains a major cause of illness for children in remote Karen communities in Myanmar. Rotary Hawthorn, together with local and international partners, is delivering a sustainable clean water solution to a remote mountain village school and health clinic, serving 789 people. The project includes advanced filtration, infrastructure upgrades and hygiene education in the Karen language. An article from Isabel Armer, Rotary Club of Richmond
Through an initiative involving the collaboration of three Rotary Clubs to purchase and distribute induction stoves in remote Nepal, families now can experience lasting improvements in health, well-being and in their quality of life.
An article from Katrina Flinn, Rotary Club of Hawthorn
When people are at their most vulnerable, small acts of care can have a powerful impact. Rotary Hawthorn, working with the local community, is supporting adult mental health inpatients at Upton House, Box Hill through practical wellbeing initiatives. From movement and music programs to cooking classes and providing essential personal care items, this Rotary-led project is helping patients build confidence, skills and dignity during recovery.
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