This week we had the pleasure of welcoming District Governor Emma Clarke to share with us her key directions for the year. The two major community Issues that Emma outlined were Family Violence and Community Health where Rotary Health programs can have a major impact.
Family violence is critical issue in all communities, and it has featured in the media on a daily basis reflecting the sad reality of what people face. From her experience as a Primary School Principal, Emma outlined the issues that teachers are trained to see in students who experience violence at home, She said that Rotary was in a position to play an important role through highlighting Awareness and Advocacy to seek better outcomes. Rotary has community connections, collective power and is a trusted brand. This is a matter which our Community Health and Welfare Committee has already been discussing – more to come.
Emma also told us about a good approach to getting more people involved in Rotary by asking “would you like to volunteer with us on our community projects”, rather than “would you like to attend a meeting”.
Next week we have Trish Carr our Eastern Community Group Leader sharing with us the plans and initiatives being discussed across the 12 clubs in our Group. Make sure you register to attend.
Remember all members need to have Working with Children Check as we have a number of active projects involving children. If you haven't had the chance to get your free volunteer WWC, the link takes you to the site -
DG Emma Clark also gave us a broad overview of what could be expected when we merge with Tasmania Rotary. The development work has only just begun with the tentative date for actual merging to occur July 2028. More to follow over the next year. The 2027 District 9815 Conference will be held at the Ridges Hunter Valley Resort, NSW 12th to 14th March 2027.
On Saturday we cooked up a storm at our Doncaster Bunnings BBQ. Despite the morning temperature as low as 8 Degrees, our morning Team arrived early, got everything ready and set the scene for the day. With 3 Teams, it makes it a little easier to volunteer, as your shift is probably no more than 2 - 3 hours. A big thank you to our Team Leader Barry Halpern who organises each BBQ Event. To Brian & David Tyedin, John Bennie, Andrew An, Dan Hession, Graham Kane, Wally Spinks, Tony Monley and Luke Bastian, a big thank you for volunteering your time. I enjoyed myself also. Next BBQ is 3rd October, make sure you Volunteer, we need you. Photos of the last shift on the day: Barry, Tony, Luke & Esther.
Over 60 people attended the Trivia afternoon at the East Doncaster Secondary College. The event raised funds for local charity CareNet. Pizza and Prizes supported by our Club with Members Luke Bastian and Dan Hession in attendance.
Registrations are now open for the Rotary South Pacific Conference 2026, 30 Oct–1 Nov in Melbourne. This year’s theme — People • Planet • Peace — brings together an exceptional lineup of speakers. Members will leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and renewed confidence in Rotary’s future.
Clubs and members are encouraged to also consider:
·President’s Breakfast (Sat) — an energising session with incoming RI President Larry Lunsford, designed for current and future club leaders. Registration Link
·Rotary Foundation Masterclass (Fri) — with Past RI President and incoming TRF Trustee Chair Gordon McInally, focusing on mental health, impact, and how clubs can use Foundation grants more effectively. Registration Link
·Saturday Gala Dinner — Unmasked: Masquerade Ball A spectacular evening featuring performances from classical musicals, a professional jazz band, a Phantom‑themed surprise duet, and a dramatic all‑guest unmasking moment. Clubs may wish to book as a group via the main conference registration site.
·Friday night fellowship dinner – an informal opportunity to socialise with members from across the region. Registration Link
Thank You to Our Sponsors – Partners in Community Impact
Our Rotary club is proud to be supported by generous sponsors who share our commitment to service and community. Their support helps fund our projects, events, and charitable initiatives, enabling us to make a real difference locally and beyond.
Why Support Our Sponsors?
When you support our sponsors, you’re supporting businesses and organisations that invest back into our community and help Rotary deliver meaningful programs. Your support strengthens local partnerships, sustains volunteer-led projects, and builds a stronger community for everyone. For more information on each sponsor, CLICK on their logo below.
