District Governor Update - Mar 2026

District Governor Update

Dear Rotarians, Rotaractors and friends,

February was a month filled with connection, service, learning and reflection, and once again, I am reminded how fortunate I am to serve as your District Governor.

The month began with a wonderful “Cup Full of Connection” picnic at Fagan Park. What a perfect reminder that Rotary is at its best when we gather, share stories and strengthen friendships.

From there, the calendar was full of regionalisation discussions on public image, reviews of COTA guidelines, conference planning meetings for 2026, connecting with Rotaract leaders, and presenting the Community Hero Paul Harris Fellow to Helen Palmer at Windsor Rotary and a special moment recognising the extraordinary impact one person can make.

Behind the scenes, your District team has been busy preparing for the future. I’ve also joined discussions on regionalisation and public image, COTA guideline reviews, RAWCS in the Eastern Region, Respectful Relationships, mentoring, Presidents and G-Train meetings, and our District Awards and Finance Committees. These conversations and workshops ensure we remain strong, relevant and well-governed as we move forward together.

Our youth programs continue to shine. I attended a RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) workshop and Summer RYPEN, and if you ever need reassurance about the future, spend a day with these young leaders. Their courage, curiosity and compassion are extraordinary.

It was also special to attend the Youth Exchange welcome home dinner hosted by RC Carlingford. Seeing the growth in our returning students reminds us why international understanding matters.

There were moments of celebration, collaboration, and reflection as we farewelled Bobby Redman, a reminder that Rotary is not just an organisation but a family.

I’ve continued my club visits, including The Entrance and Hills Kellyville, and I thank every club for the warm welcome and the opportunity to hear your stories.

Rotary is thriving in District 9685 because of your leadership, generosity, and willingness to act.

🎤 Districts 9660 & 9685 Conference – Newcastle

15 DAYS TO GO!

Get ready for an unforgettable Rotary experience at YOUR Combined District Conference.

This conference will be about inspiration, innovation and impact. It’s where ideas are shared, friendships are strengthened, and we shape the future of Rotary together.

If you haven’t booked yet, now is the time.

Bookings via LINK

2026/2027 District Team training at Rotary Down Under, Norwest

Final Reflection

Finally, February closed with both joy and reflection. Welcoming new members into our Rotary family while also honouring the life of Bobby Redman.

Rotary is about people: supporting one another, serving our communities and building connections that last a lifetime. Thank you for the leadership, compassion and commitment you show every day. I look forward to seeing many of you in the weeks ahead as we continue to grow our impact across District 9685.

Michele Ellery
District Governor 2025–2026
Rotary District 9685