District 9685 Hosts Exclusive Conversation with Precy Peacockba Babalola
District Governor Michele Ellery recently secured an exclusive interview for Rotary District 9685 with Precy Peacockba Babalola, barrister, historian, human rights advocate, Rotarian, and wife of Rotary International President-Elect Yinka Babalola.
Conducted by Rotary Down Under journalist and Rotaractor, Sarah Atkins from Dunedin, New Zealand, the interview provided members with a unique opportunity to hear firsthand insights on leadership, service, global connections, human rights advocacy, and the power of Rotary to create positive change around the world.
The engaging conversation inspired attendees and highlighted Rotary’s ability to connect people, ideas, and communities across international borders.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH
Update: $2000 raised through the District Celebration Raffle!
CLUB EXCELLENCE AWARD 2025/26 KINGS BIRTHDAY HONOURS 2026
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION, TAIPEI 2026
Attending the 2026 Rotary International Convention in Taipei as District Governor was an inspiring and unforgettable experience. It was a privilege for David and I to represent our district on the world stage, connecting with Rotary leaders and members from across the globe sharing a commitment to service above self.
The convention showcased the incredible impact Rotary is making worldwide, from the ongoing fight to eradicate polio to innovative community projects focused on environmental sustainability vocational service, and humanitarian support.
I was particularly proud to engage with fellow Rotarians at exhibition booths highlighting initiatives such as Virtual Vocational Exchange, environmental programs, and community-led projects that are transforming lives (End Plastic Soup, with District Enviro Chair Melanie Lewis) and (Bees Fellowship Group & HandUp Congo, Lucy Hopgood-Brown).
Beyond the educational sessions and inspiring keynote presentations, the convention reinforced the power of international fellowship, cultural exchange, and collaboration. Taipei provided a vibrant backdrop for building new friendships, sharing ideas, and strengthening partnerships that will continue to benefit our district and communities long after the convention concluded.
🎉Welcome NEW Rotarians & Rotaractorsto 30 June 2026!
Sadiq
Khan
Hills Rotaract
Dweeshada
Ramgutty
Hills Rotaract
Hayley
Taylor
Hills Rotaract
Sami
Ul Haq
Hills Rotaract
Abigail
Quadros
Hills Rotaract
Keshant
Persand
Hills Rotaract
Christene
McSeveny
Castle Hill
Gai
Kelly
Windsor
Kate
Brown
Wahroonga
Murray
Bergin
Umina Beach
Paul
Henry
Umina Beach
Mark
Lavelle
Umina Beach
Corinne
Terlato
The Entrance
Ruth
Pasi Magodo
Lower Blue Mountains
Suleman
Masood
Norwest Sunrise
Hans
Thomsen
Ku-ring-gai
Welcome to Rotary District 9685. We are so glad you are here. 💙
NEW members receive a welcome email from the District Governor. Clubs - please continue to nurture, engage and connect your new members, the first 90 days matter enormously.
Yours in Rotary, Michele
District 9685 Governor
Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains
Let’s celebrate our good news loudly!🎉Send your club, project or event news, plus photos to: communications9685@gmail.com
Club President & Board's Invitation to an important ONLINE event
From Giving to Impact:Zoom Seminar 19th July, 3pm- 4:30pm
Rotarians,
I am honoured to start my 3-year term serving as your District Rotary Foundation Chair for 2026-29. At this year's Foundation in-person Workshop on 20th June, I put a simple question to the room: What if the Foundation isn't just a charity our clubs donate to — but also the engine that multiplies what our clubs can actually deliver? The team will be conducting a second online seminar, we encourage those Rotarians who missed the in-person seminar to attend.
Vision for Vavuniya: Restoring Sight, Reviving Lives.
Imagine regaining your sight after years of darkness and seeing your grandchildren's faces again for the first time. Join us on Zoom to hear this remarkable story firsthand and celebrate the first 100 days of impact [read more]
Venezuela is reeling from the devastating twin earthquakes that occurred a few days ago. If you, or your members would like to donate, there are three options:
The Foundation will use the funds when the Rotary District calls on the immediate US$25,000 grant to be delivered. The District in Venezuela will likely do this further down the track after the initial recovery phase has passed.
Vale PP Mike Blair OAM, Rotary Club of Castle Hill
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RYLA 2027:
Namaroo Conference Centre
WELCOME TO A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE
RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) is a transformational leadership program designed for young adults. Spanning 7 days, the program combines some of Australia's finest speakers with engaging activities and challenges, as well as a supportive environment that enables their leadership to grow and develop to its full potential.
Do you want to be part of the bright futures of keen local students? Last year’s inaugural event highlighted how students can take up challenges, work together and find solutions.
From 30 October to 1 November 2026, Rotary South Pacific will gather at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre for two powerful days of leadership, connection and action.
Hosted by Rotary International Director Jennifer Scott AM (Conference Convenor) and chaired by PDG Tony Monley OAM (Conference Chair)
