District Governor - August Update
Relief for Rasuwa, Nepal (RAOAF). Click the link to make a tax-deductible contribution.District Governor Update – August 2026
August has been another month across District 9685. July brought club visits, governance work, celebrations and planning, all highlighting the extraordinary commitment of our Rotarians.
A key focus has been implementing Rotary’s strengthened Youth Protection Policy. While these changes have created extra work, safeguarding every young person entrusted to Rotary remains our highest priority. Thank you to everyone who has embraced the requirements and supported clubs through the transition.
Our District Intellectual Property compliance project is now complete. Clubs are establishing asset registers and ensuring more than one member has full administrative access to websites and social media accounts, simple governance measures that will protect clubs into the future.
District Governor Michele Ellery (left) connecting with fellow Past District Governors at last month's luncheon during a busy month of club and community engagements.
July also brought fellowship with Past District Governors and the inspiring Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Awards. Congratulations to every finalist and recipient, particularly Shane Fitzsimmons, honoured with Rotary’s Award for Excellence in Service to Humanity.
Finalists and award recipients at the Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Awards, celebrating exceptional service to communities across NSW.
Thank you to clubs for participating thoughtfully in the new District vote. The proposal passed, and work will now begin to select our District Governor for 2028–29.
A warm Rotary welcome to the newest members who joined clubs across District 9685 in August 2026.
Another highlight during July was sending congratulatory emails to our Rotarians celebrating many years of Rotary membership. Recognising these important milestones reminds us that every year of service strengthens our clubs, our communities and Rotary itself. Thank you for your ongoing commitment.
Members and supporters gathered to celebrate the Hills Rotaract Club Changeover and another exciting year of service.
August promises more club visits, youth exchange activities, community events and conference planning. Thank you for continuing to strengthen Rotary and create lasting impact throughout our communities.
Michele Ellery
District Governor 2025–2027
Rotary District 9685