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June District News includes...
DISTRICT GOVERNOR'S UPDATE
2025 COUNCIL ON RESOLUTIONS REMINDER
DISTRICT CHANGEOVER
ROTARY SOUTH PACIFIC CONFERENCE
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SUPPORT NEEDED FOR NSW FLOOD EMERGENCY
VANUATU EARTHQUAKE DONATION UPDATE
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DISTRICT 9685 YOUTH SERVICE
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT NEWS
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION UPDATE
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MOTHER'S DAY FLOWER SALE SUCCESS
BEACH2BEACH ADDS A HALF MARATHON IN 2025
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IN MEMORIAM
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UPCOMING EVENTS
11 JUN ROTARY ONLINE COMMUNITY GROUP OPEN HOUSE
12 JUN GORDON WATERHOUSE MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP
19 JUN ROTARY IMPACT FILM FESTIVAL
8 JUL MATERNAL HEALTH & CHILDCARE IN NIGERIA (ZOOM)
24 AUG BEACH2BEACH FUN RUN
31 AUG PAT FARMER'S QUICKSAND RUN
20-21 MAR DISTRICTS 9685 & 9660 COMBINED CONFERENCE
DISTRICT GOVERNOR'S UPDATE
“Our children must inherit a society that is better than the one we inherited” - I reflect on this quote from Dr Charles Perkins while on the train speeding north-west across the plains to Moree.
It is a fine winter day. Grazing country flashes by, interspersed with farmland. I am expecting to see cotton fields in the second half of the day, but for now it looks like wheat and canola. The landscape reminds me of the line from our National Anthem – ‘….we have boundless planes to share’. That thought leads me to the quote from Charlie Perkins.
A small group of Rotarians from RC Turramurra is heading to Moree East Public School where we help provide ‘books in homes’ - a project which provides children’s books to homes where the families don’t have the wherewithal to do so themselves. I am grateful for the invitation to join them. I agree wholeheartedly with the purpose. Having access to books makes for a better society.
The project started in 2020 with a provision of re-usable computers donated by a private school in Sydney. It currently involves partnering with a charity that helps organise the right books based on student need and preference, for homes as well as the school library. The school in Moree East has over 200 pupils and they each are able to access 2 books per school term, significantly increasing their engagement with literacy skills. Research has shown a link from higher levels of literacy to academic and occupational success, self-esteem, and reduction in negative social patterns in later life. The school we work with has specifically reported improved attendance and performance in the classroom.
I have previously seen many good schools in and around Sydney, with sincere and dedicated teachers showing genuine interest in the children’s welfare and learning. I have also heard of the lack of resources in some parts of the country. “The gap” between First Nations and others remains alive and well. There remains a lot to be done, including in the field of education.
If this is a school that has needed help from Rotary, what will I see here?
I walk into the gate and already know from the vibe that I am about to be inspired, yet again, by what our teachers do. I see the same sincerity and dedication that I have come to expect by now, having visited many schools previously for Rotary’s Pitch for Purpose program. I see quality resources being put to great use and being maintained in good order.
The children start their day with Yoga (we can’t help but join in, which brings smiles all around!). We go into a maths class where modern techniques and digital resources are being used to entrench a good understanding of the basics of maths. Small class sizes enable teachers to be aware of individual needs of some of the children. Gifted kids are being quietly encouraged to do more without making the others feel lesser. Special-needs children are being managed gently and patiently. I see multi-lingual teaching embedded in the flow of the classwork. The kids are learning basic counting in English as well as the Gomeroi language.
The blended culture is on display again during assembly when the children perform for us, with song, dance and theatre in both languages, including the national anthem. I am reminded of New Zealand where Western and Maori cultural expression exists side by side. In Moree East Public School, they are not waiting for a Treaty, or a Voice, or a Reconciliation Action Plan. They are living an integrated and respectful culture right now. It would be such a pity if this amazing community was prevented from achieving their full potential just because some families can’t afford books at home for their children. I am so happy that we are doing our bit and bringing them books. I am overjoyed when the teacher invites me to read to the class!
As I leave, walking on the ‘mural learning pathway’ with indigenous stories painted on the ground, I remember the eager, cheerful, and happy faces, and wonder what else happens to them so that some of the older kids get into trouble later on in life. Petty crime rears its ugly head every now and then, despite such inspiring and resilient communities. For now, we are helping with books. Should we be doing more?
In the afternoon, we proceed for a meeting with Aboriginal Elders at the Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre. The centre offers informative displays of photographs and art, including pride of place for ‘the photo’ from 1965 of Charlie Perkins in the swimming pool with a group of indigenous children, having jumped in to protest against racial segregation in public pools. PDG Pam Pritchard, AO, is our lead representative. In her touching and heart-warming addresses to the gathering, Pam reflects on her childhood in Moree and the role her parents played in enabling change towards inclusion and equality in society. There is an exchange of gifts.
In two days in Moree we have taken in quite a lot – a dip in ‘that’ natural hot spring pool made famous by the Freedom Riders, a visit to a cotton gin, to a nearby village called ‘Pally’, being driven around the sights by amazing local Rotarians from RC Moree narrating tales from their childhood, being hosted with fun games involving unexpected pronunciations of the names of local places, and a chance to catch up with fellow DG Bruce George from District 9660. Bruce drove all the way from Inverell to join us, despite also having to coordinate flood relief work in this district, and I am thankful for that. Thank you RC Moree for hosting us, and thank you RC Turramurra for organising this trip!
This is my last column in our regular bulletin. I am deeply honoured to have served as District Governor, especially at a time when Rotary is looking to evolve its methods while staying true to its purpose. To this end, we have launched a new program called Pitch for Purpose to encourage innovation amongst our youth, opened up our inspiring conferences to non-members, extended the club participation rate in our Foundation-funded humanitarian projects, and engaged with the offerings from the Regionalisation pilot.
I thank you, the members, for giving me the opportunity. I will continue to serve in collaboration with incoming and future Governors and focus on building partnerships to increase our impact locally and globally.
Speaking of impact, if you have wondered ‘what is Rotary’s impact on the world’, do register for our District Changeover. I will share our first ever ‘District Impact Report’.
Thank you.
Yours in Rotary, Niranjan District 9685 Governor
Rotary Club of Beecroft
2025 COUNCIL ON RESOLUTIONS REMINDER
Rotary International’s Council on Resolutions meets online each year to vote on proposed resolutions submitted by clubs, districts, the RI Board, and the general council RIBI and any urgent enactments proposed by the RI Board. Adopted resolutions are then considered by the RI Board or the TRF Trustees. Resolutions cover Requests for actions outside the purview of constitutional documents.
Clubs can provide proposed resolutions for the 2025 Council on Resolutions cycle with a closing deadline of 30 June 2025. Supporting information can be found on the My.Rotary.org website.
So I encourage you submit for any changes you would like to see to me before this deadline. We all have a voice and a responsibility for improving how this great organisation operates.
PDG Peter Ward District 9685 Council on Legislation Representative
Coolangatta is the venue for the 2025 Rotary South Pacific Zone Conference, from the 31st October 2025 to the 2nd November 2025.
We are encouraging all Rotarians and Rotaractors to come together. All are welcome.
You will be inspired and motivated as we connect and share ideas to grow Rotary and activate the strategic priorities of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation.
Our 2025 event will be held at the Twin Towns Conference and Function Centre, Tweed Heads, just a few minutes stroll to Coolangatta and Gold Coast Beaches.
As communities across New South Wales face one of the most devastating flood emergencies in recent memory, we are once again called to act with compassion and urgency.
Emergency services are stretched thin, conducting hundreds of rescues while many residents remain stranded. The full scale of the disaster is still unfolding, and the need for coordinated support is growing by the hour. As with the Queensland response, mental health support will be a critical focus in the recovery phase.
The Rotary Disaster Relief team has been in contact with District 9660 to let them know that we are here to support them if needed.
Every member in Zone 8 has received an email with the following ways to donate. We think this is the best way to assist at this stage.
District 9660 Disaster Fund Account (For immediate use by clubs and districts – not tax deductible)
Account Name: Rotary District 9660
BSB: 082798
Account Number: 599 583 002
Rotary Foundation Disaster Response Fund
(Tax-deductible in Australia – ideal for individual donations, in support of the Disaster Response Grant application that is being prepared by the district) DONATE HERE
Other options:
You can donate to RAWCS via their Flood Relief project.
RAWCS project 42-2023-24: Flood Disaster Relief Fund – Australia (RABS)
President of Wahroonga Rotary Club, Sallianne McClelland has made direct contact with Taree-On-Manning Rotary so you may like to contact her and donate directly to them.
Please support our fellow Australians who have been so badly impacted yet again.
PDG Mina Howard District Community Chair
Rotary Club of Blackheath
VANUATU EARTHQUAKE DONATION UPDATE
Dear Rotarians,
I would like to express our gratitude for your continued support and generosity in the wake of the Vanuatu earthquake. Your donations have made a significant difference and we are very appreciative of your commitment to helping the affected communities.
We applied for a $25,000 USD disaster relief grant, which we used to restore water supply to Mele and Mele Maat village (with a combined population of approximately 10,000.) I am happy to inform you that this project has now been completed successfully.
In addition to this, our District has received over $100,000NZD in donations, which we greatly appreciate. RAWCS have also received a similar amount in donations. At this stage, we are still holding these funds in trust as we continue to assess the most effective and sustainable ways to utilise them for ongoing recovery efforts.
We are working in close collaboration with Rotary Port Vila on projects that will have significant impact and that will align with the goals of the Rotary Foundation. One of the key areas of focus is to improve water access and sanitation to schools. The Vanuatu Government have been slow in assessing the damage of schools but we have now identified several schools that require water and sanitation hygiene. We envisage we can provide ablution blocks with water tanks that can provide clean water to those in the community.
Please know we are working diligently to ensure your generous donations are being directed to the most effective and sustainable projects that will have a long-term positive impact.
Once again, thank you for your kindness and dedication to the people of Vanuatu.
Jenn Wong District 9910 Governor
DISTRICT 9685 YOUTH SERVICE
As we head into a new Rotary year focused on empowering our youth and shaping a better tomorrow, we want to clarify how our District Youth programs are structured, administered, and supported, and how you play a vital role in making them successful.
Sharing of Responsibilities
The leadership and oversight of District Youth Service will be Co-Chaired between Lucian and Bass. District Committees coordinate and facilitate programs such as RYLA, RYPEN, MUNA, Youth Exchange, Interact, and Rotaract, ensuring compliance, consistency, and resources are in place. Clubs remain crucial partners in identifying participants, promoting programs, and providing on-the-ground support.
If you're not sure who to contact for specific help or guidance, refer to the District Directory, which lists the relevant program contacts. You can also reach out to us directly and we’ll connect you with the right support.
Club-Led Youth Initiatives
In addition to District programs, many clubs run their own youth-focused projects tailored to local community needs. We encourage Youth Directors to continue these efforts and share your ideas and learnings with others. These projects can be powerful opportunities to engage young people, build community ties, and promote Rotary’s values.
If your club has a unique youth initiative or is looking to start one, please let us know. There are opportunities to collaborate with other clubs, access district resources, and learn from successful projects across the district.
Tracking Participation
We are currently compiling data to identify which clubs are participating in which programs. This will help us highlight active engagement, identify gaps, and encourage cross-club collaboration. The compiled information will be shared with you soon.
Ongoing Support and Communication
To better support you in your role, we plan to hold a minimum of three to four Zoom sessions with Club Youth Directors over the course of the year. These sessions will be opportunities to:
Share updates and best practices
Monitor progress
Offer guidance and support
Address challenges as they arise
These forums will also allow us to build a stronger network of Youth Directors across the district—because we all benefit from each other’s experience.
Youth Protection Reminder
As outlined at the district assembly, safeguarding remains a critical requirement. Please ensure all your volunteers involved in youth programs have up-to-date Working With Children Checks, and that your Club Youth Protection Officer has verified them. For one-on-one activities, Volunteer Information and Declaration Forms must also be completed. Failing to follow these procedures puts our programs—and Rotary's reputation—at risk.
If you have any questions or require assistance, our District Youth Protection Officer Michelle Westlund is available to help at youthprotection@rotarydistrict9685.org.au.
Thank you for your commitment to empowering young people in your communities. Together, we can inspire future leaders and build a better future.
Bass Bhaskaran & Lucian Keegel District Youth Service Chairs
Rotary Clubs of Norwest Sunrise & E-Club of Greater Sydney
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT NEWS
You asked for a better mobile experience with Rotary’s Learning Center, and here it is! Introducing the new app, a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center on your mobile devices.
It’s now easier than ever to complete your role-based courses, track your progress, and explore other courses and resources — wherever you are.
To get started:
Download Rotary Learning Center from your app store.
Open the app and enter your My Rotary username and password.
Find your courses.
If you’ve accessed the Learning Center previously through the Go.Learn app, you’ll find that the RotaryLearn app is a more streamlined experience. After you get started with RotaryLearn, you can remove Go.Learn from your mobile devices.
As we reflect on the Rotary year drawing to a close, I write to you with heartfelt thanks — and a renewed sense of purpose.
Thank you for your commitment to The Rotary Foundation, our charity, and your unwavering dedication to Service Above Self. You have demonstrated what it means to be People of Action — not only dreaming of a better world but building it.
Through your District Grant efforts, we've seen the magic of local and regional impact: from neo-natal equipment in Australian hospitals to solar-powered computers for students in Vanuatu, your projects are lighting up lives and making a tangible difference in the communities we serve.
With Global Grants, you’ve reached even further, tackling significant challenges and transforming lives. Whether it's clean water in Bolivia, maternal health in Sri Lanka, diabetes care in India, or healthcare in Nigeria, District 9685 has been a true global partner — creating sustainable, measurable impact through international collaboration and Rotary’s commitment to global understanding.
These achievements would not have been possible without your generosity to the Annual Fund. It is your giving that fuels these life-changing programs through District Designated Funds (DDF). But this year, we face a critical moment. As of June 1st, our Annual Fund contributions stand at just USD 195,000, which means that in Rotary Year 2027–28, our district will have less than USD 100,000 to support your incredible ideas and initiatives. We must do better — because the world needs Rotary more than ever.
And speaking of urgent needs: I must now champion a cause close to all of our hearts — the eradication of polio.
While many of us feel polio is “a thing of the past,” the recent outbreak in Papua New Guinea is a stark reminder: Polio is not gone. Until we finish the job, every child everywhere remains at risk.
Eradicating polio remains Rotary’s number one global goal, and it must remain our personal goal as well. Yet, as of June 1st, our district’s PolioPlus giving stands at just USD 66,000, and we have not crossed the USD 100,000 mark in any of the last five years. We must change that.
Now is the time for each club, each member, and each of us to stand tall and say — We will not rest until polio is history.
So today, I humbly ask you:
✅ Support the Annual Fund — so your club can continue doing good in the world.
✅ Give generously to the PolioPlus Fund — so no child ever has to live with the pain of polio.
Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to a world free of suffering, full of hope, and united in service.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your District Rotary Foundation Chair. As I now enter the final year of my term, I look forward to working even more closely with you and your clubs to build on our shared success. On behalf of the entire District Foundation Committee, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude for your continued partnership and support.
A special note of appreciation goes to Past President David Rivett, who has managed the District Grant applications efficiently and effectively, working closely with clubs to ensure the timely and impactful execution of our projects. Thank you, David, for your steadfast service and dedication.
Together, let us continue to make The Rotary Foundation not just our charity of choice, but our charity of action.
With Rotary, thanks and pride in our shared mission,
Haran Ramachandran
Foundation Chair E-Club of Greater Sydney
MOTHER'S DAY FLOWER SALE SUCCESS
The Rotary Club of Gosford City’s annual Mother’s Day Flower Sale was a blooming success, bringing smiles to hundreds of local mums while raising vital funds for community initiatives.
Held on Sunday 11 May 2025, the event featured three bustling pop-up stalls at McDonald’s – West Gosford, Anaconda – West Gosford and The Appliance Centre – East Gosford.
From 7am to 1pm, volunteers wrapped and sold 500 beautiful bunches of locally sourced flowers—each bouquet lovingly prepared to ensure maximum freshness and delight. At just $30 a bunch, the flowers flew off the tables, with locals embracing the opportunity to celebrate Mum and support the community at the same time.
And support it did. The event raised $6,685, with every dollar going toward local charities and Rotary’s community projects, including mental health initiatives, youth scholarships, disaster recovery, and food security programs. The Club’s impact extends further through partnerships with other local organisations supporting vulnerable members of the Gosford community.
Club organiser Robyn Parker said the event is always a heart-warming day for both volunteers and the community.
“We were absolutely thrilled to help make people’s day – it was so special to see kids and adults alike heading off with big smiles and beautiful bunches to surprise their mums,” Ms Parker said.
“It’s a joy-filled fundraiser that really makes a difference, and with every petal, every bunch, it supported local.”
The Rotary Club of Gosford City thanks everyone who purchased flowers, volunteered their time, or helped spread the word. Your support ensures Rotary can continue its mission of service above self—right here on the Central Coast, NSW.
The iconic Beach2Beach Charity Fun Run organised by Warringah Rotary is set to reach new heights in 2025 with the launch of its first-ever Beach2Beach Half Marathon. For the first time, runners will have the chance to tackle 21.09 km of stunning coastal views, making it one of the most picturesque half marathons in Australia.
Scheduled for Sunday, August 24, 2025, the new Half Marathon will complement the existing 3km, 6km, and 14km courses, providing a thrilling new challenge for seasoned runners while maintaining the event’s fun and inclusive atmosphere.
"We’re thrilled to introduce the Half Marathon to Beach2Beach," said Phil Jackson from Warringah Rotary "This new distance caters to experienced runners looking to push their limits while enjoying the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney’s Northern Beaches."
Phil Jackson also emphasized the community impact of the event: "With the rising popularity of running, we saw an opportunity to expand Beach2Beach, not just for the thrill of competition but also to increase the funds we raise to support local charities and community programs."
A Run with Purpose
Beach2Beach is more than just a run—it’s a movement for good. As the largest charity fun run, the event has raised millions of dollars for local charities, schools, and community groups. Proceeds from the 2025 event will continue to fund vital programs that make a real difference.
Event date: 24th August 2025
Dee Why to Newport Beach
An "open house" for Rotarians and Rotaractors who want to know more about alternative club models in the online space.
How could you possibly feel connected?
How would you do projects?
How could you possibly have impact?
It couldn't possibly be fun......could it?
Brought to you by the Rotary Online Community Group, this event will showcase the eClubs in our Community Group, showing you not only the functionality and impact of our online clubs but also the variety in culture and approach in the online space.
Come by, learn more about our clubs and their impact, and chat with members from our different clubs.
Some of the Lower North Shore’s most talented young musicians will perform at a
free concert on 12th June, 2025.
Gordon was an esteemed member of Rotary Club of Chatswood who dedicated his
life to music and service.
Participating schools each nominate a student who makes an outstanding
contribution to the school in both a high-performance level of music and service.
The schools participating are Chatswood High School, Killara High School, Mercy
Catholic College, Roseville College, Shore School, St Pius X College and Willoughby
Girls High School.
The award provides a very valuable public performance opportunity for students.
For many this may their very first public performance in a professional venue.
Rotary members, partners and guests make an important contribution to the evening by attending and being an appreciative audience.
Finalists in the Chatswood Roseville Rotary event will perform at the Zenith Theatre,
McIntosh St, Chatswood on Thursday, 12th June at 6.30 for 7pm.
At the recent District 9685 Conference, attendees were treated to a glimpse of the powerful work being done by local Rotary Clubs — from life-changing community initiatives to creative fundraising projects. But we know many of you couldn’t make it, and some brilliant videos didn’t get their moment in the spotlight.
Now’s your chance to see what’s happening across the district.
Thursday 19th June
6:30 for 6:45pm
$10 per person
West Pennant Hills Sports Club
103 New Line Rd, West Pennant Hills
Save the date for a special screening of 25 short club videos, produced by Rotary Clubs throughout District 9685. Whether you're curious, inspired, or looking for your next project idea — this is the perfect opportunity to see what your fellow Rotarians are up to.
You’ll also have a chance to connect with other clubs, ask questions, share ideas, and maybe even collaborate on future initiatives.
The venue's website has a full restaurant and snack menu. The room will be set up with chairs and tables so you can dine while you enjoy the project videos and ensuing conversations.
to Rotary Project Account BSB 062-113 Acc 1002 9204
MATERNAL HEALTH & CHILDCARE IN NIGERIA (ZOOM)
TUESDAY 8TH JULY
Ryde Rotary is hosting a number of special events in our "80th Year of Impact" in 2025-26. Rotarians, Clubs and visitors are welcome to join these online sessions with internationally significant guest speakers.
If you and/or your club are interested to attend, please pre-register here to receive Zoom links closer to the dates!
Together for Healthy Families
PDG Prof. Emmanuel Lufadeju (Nigeria)
Tuesday July 8th, 6:30 - 8pm on Zoom
Cofounder & Technical Advisor to the Reproductive, Maternal & Child Health Rotarian Action Group
Rotary International "Programs of Scale" grant winner Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria was the first project of the Reproductive, Maternal & Child Health Rotarian Action Group, founded in 1994.
