DISTRICT GOVERNOR 2026 UPDATE
Dear Rotarians and friends,
One of the pleasures of being District Governor is seeing the many ways our clubs bring people together and make a difference. A conversation over a sausage sandwich, a welcoming community bookshop, Riding the Train over 185 stations to End Polio, or an opportunity to share a project can all help people discover what Rotary offers.
Rotary in the Spotlight
On 1 October, I joined Mark Anderson from Beecroft and Liz McDougall from Warringah on Channel Nine’s Today show for National Sausage Day. It was a wonderful opportunity to talk about the community impact behind the familiar Rotary barbecue.
If you missed the promotion of Rotary with our District Governor Michele Ellery, Beecroft RC member Mark Anderson and Warringah RC Liz McDougall, please click the YouTube link to watch
Every sausage sold represents volunteer effort and funds that help our clubs support worthwhile projects. Thank you to everyone who gives their time to these events and helps turn a simple meal into meaningful service.
A New Chapter for Beecroft
I also had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the Rotary Club of Beecroft’s Pre-Loved Bookshop. The shop looked fantastic, and the enthusiasm of members and visitors made it a memorable occasion.
This initiative gives books a new life, creates a welcoming place for the community and raises funds for Rotary projects. Congratulations to everyone who brought it to life. I look forward to seeing this new chapter unfold.
Welcoming Our Future District Leader
Looking ahead to our district’s future, I am pleased to share that Past President Simone Wong, from the Rotary Club of Mt Warning AM in District 9640, has been confirmed as District Governor Nominee for the new Northern NSW district for 2028–2029.
Following the completion of the challenge period, Simone’s appointment took effect on 1 October 2026, and she will become District Governor-Elect on 1 July 2027.
Congratulations, Simone. Thank you to all candidates who offered to serve and to the Selection Committee, chaired by PDG Kalma McLellan, for its work throughout the process. Simone will be joining us at the AGM in November, so please get to know her during the day.
Thank You, Colin
We warmly thank Colin Blackhall for his service as Rotary Community Leader for the Sydney North Shore Beaches group. As Colin steps back from the role, we recognise his care, commitment and support for our clubs. He remains a valued member of our Rotary community, and we wish him well.
If you are interested in supporting clubs as a Rotary Community Leader, please contact Stephen Lovison, Community Group Director and Deputy Chair RSP, at community@rotarysouthpacific.org.
Ride the Train to End Polio - 23rd October 2026
Share Your Rotary Story in Barcelona
For those looking towards Barcelona in 2027, booth reservations are now open for the House of Friendship at the Rotary International Convention. This is an opportunity to share your work, exchange ideas and connect with others from across the Rotary world.
Could your club, project or fellowship be represented? For booth information and reservations at Fira Barcelona Gran Via, contact houseoffriendship@rotarybarcelona2027.org.
Keeping Our Connections Strong
Thank you for the energy, generosity and care you bring to Rotary. Please keep sharing your club’s stories, inviting people to experience what you do and looking after one another. Those everyday connections help our clubs thrive, and our service continue.
Warm regards,
Michele Ellery
District Governor 2026–2027