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November District News includes...
DISTRICT GOVERNOR'S UPDATE
IMPORTANT YOUTH PROTECTION NOTICE
PITCH FOR PURPOSE
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION GALA 2024
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RYPEN & ABORIGINAL STUDENTS
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
COMMUNITY SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS
THE ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
EXPERT SESSIONS SERIES
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MOVIE NIGHT TO END POLIO
VIRTUAL VOCATIONAL EXCHANGE
INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY BREAKFAST
THEATRE TO END POLIO
EPIC DAY OF SERVICE
THE MINDSET OF AN OLYMPIAN
TWILIGHT CHRISTMAS IN BEECROFT VILLAGE
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF WORLD HERITAGE
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OTHER ROTARY NEWS
DISTRICT GOVERNOR'S UPDATE
Dear Rotarians and friends,
“We should be optimists, not pestimists.” Brilliant, isn’t it?
I received this sage advice from a 9-year-old through a pre-recorded video interview. He then went on to correct himself to say “pessimist”, but only after a sheepish glance at someone behind the camera.
Rotarians had gathered in Queenstown, New Zealand, and were watching a video interview of two articulate young fellows talking about how they had benefitted from a program addressing mental health amongst the under-12s.
Before we see how this interview came about, let’s step back and take in what we do through our Youth Avenue of Service. You may recollect the ‘impact footprint’ I had shown through a picture of pins on a map in the last edition of this bulletin. That picture was about our international impact. For this current edition, I started to draw out a similar picture for how we invest in our youth in this district, and very quickly realised that the ‘pins-on-map’ picture will look just like the map showing where all our clubs are located, because just about every club is active on this front!
Rotary invests in youth because we invest in our future – we want to create community- minded people that will continue the task of creating positive change in the world.
We do this across a range of programs across all age cohorts. The full list is too long to repeat here - I urge you to check out the district website if you are not familiar, and learn the full form of acronyms like RYPEN, RYLA, RYE, MUNA, and many more.
Some programs are about excellence in the sciences, arts, and humanities, while others emphasis inclusion and participation for building soft skills. Some foster international awareness and understanding, while others build bridges across the generations. Regardless of their area of emphasis, all our programs build community engagement and provide a forum for Rotary to spread its message of a better world to the families and friends of the young people who participate.
Coming back to Queenstown, the occasion was our zonal conference for Rotary South Pacific (the new name for Zone 8 of Rotary). In one of the segments, we heard from an inspiring woman called Cat Levine and learnt about her dedication to addressing extreme anxiety amongst the very young. Cat’s daughter shared her personal story of resilience as she battled this condition and was now able to confidently address a conference! They spoke of their work on a well-being program called Think and Be Me designed for young children (https://www.thinkandbe.me/) which has the support of our Immediate Past Rotary International President Gordon McInally. Cat is looking for how to partner with Rotary to take this program to more children.
Research tells us that the warning signs of future mental health issues in a person’s life journey can be seen as early as age 14, often even younger. In fact, Australian Rotary Health, which specialises in funding medical research, has recently turned its attention to researching mental health in the under-12s. The young “optimist” in the video was telling us how the Think and Be Me program had helped him.
Rotarians can be justifiably proud of our work in this Avenue of Service. Where to from here? There are ways to help more young people than we do today, with very little by way of additional resources, and do it in a way that also helps Rotary sustain itself for the long run. I would like to make three requests for you to consider:
When we sponsor participants for youth programs let us put in a concerted effort to engage with their circle of family and friends with an aim to gain new members. Program participants can be great ambassadors and help us do so. We do this well sometimes – let us aim to make it an integral part of the sponsoring arrangement and do it every time. If you feel unsure exactly how this can work, please get in touch with me. I will work with Greg and the District Team to provide the relevant support.
As a district team we want to build a district-wide story of how we create impact for the young generation. This will enable us to extend our reach and create more interest from more schools. But to do this we need your help in collecting data about what you already do. Please send me, copying Liz McDougall, a quick line or two listing which youth program and how many participants your club supported so far this year and all of last year. This should include events like public speaking awards, art competitions and the like. You can do this through your club Youth Service Director or Chair if you wish.
Sponsor a school team for Pitch for Purpose: As you may know, we have launched a new program – an Innovation Challenge for schools – in the lead up to District Conference 2025. The program, called Pitch for Purpose, will enable students to learn and apply creative problem-solving skills towards solving for social impact issues, and generate participation from the community in our conference. Look up the launch email from the 28th of October or get in touch at d9685confeq@gmail.com for more details.
Creating more community-minded young people is the best way to nurture Rotary for the long run. I look forward to your support in extending the reach and impact of our Youth Avenue of Service.
Yours in Rotary, Niranjan District 9685 Governor
Rotary Club of Beecroft
IMPORTANT YOUTH PROTECTION NOTICE
As we all know, Rotary goes above and beyond to ensure the safety of young people in our care and at our events and activities.
All Rotary Clubs are expected to have a designated Child or Youth Protection Officer if the Club participates or leads any activity involving children and young people.
This includes not only Rotary youth programs such as RYPEN or Youth Exchange, but also club events and activities where there will be direct contact with children under the age of 18. At present, only two clubs in District 9685 have the name of their Club Youth Protection Officer listed in ClubRunner.
To facilitate critical training and auditing for Club Youth Protection Officers, all Club Secretaries & Presidents please add your Club Youth Protection Officer's name to ClubRunner, or email to the District Youth Protection Officerby Friday 15 November 2024.
Michelle Westlund District Youth Protection Officer
Social Impact Network
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION GALA 2024
Coming up on Wednesday 20 November, we are having a special 'The Magic of Rotary Gala' Dinner at Rydges, Norwest, a celebration of Rotary and the incredible difference we make together across the globe. On this special evening, we will come together to honour the profound work of the Rotary Foundation.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of the Rotary Foundation, the Gala will also highlight the “Magic" that happens when Rotarians unite—turning dreams into reality for those in need.
Our distinguished guest speaker is Ms Noémie Fox - 2024 Paris Olympic Gold Medalist. She will be interviewed by Sydney Morning Herald sports journalist Tom Decent.
The evening will have a magical atmosphere filled with inspiring stories, entertainment, gourmet dining, and camaraderie.
Be a part of the magic. Together, we can continue to make lasting change in the world. This is a joint initiative of the Rotary Clubs of Castle Hill, Norwest Sunrise and Kenthurst as well as Rotary District 9685.
Pitch for Purpose innovation challenge - an exciting opportunity for school students to hone their skills in innovation and design thinking while solving real-world problems related to environmental protection—one of Rotary's core focus areas.
Your club can sponsor a school team to experience the power of Rotary at this challenge in February, with the finals held at our District Conference in March. Registrations are due 22 November, so act soon!
In his latest book "Always Was, Always Will Be," Thomas Mayo ends his first section on "Hope" with the following: "By the end of this book, I hope you will have the energy, motivation and, ultimately, the belief in what you can do to bring about positive change in the lives of First Nations' people and for all Australians. I want you to have your own clearly defined hope for a better future."
One of the ways we can bring about this positive change is through RYPEN. Does your local high school have a significant number of Aboriginal students? It may have an Aboriginal Liaison Officer who is responsible for assisting Aboriginal students.
I encourage you to contact the school and have it select an Aboriginal student for the next RYPEN. Please let me know of your success.
Bob Selinger District First Nations Partnerships Coordinator
Rotary Club of North Ryde
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
Dear Rotarians and Friends of Rotary,
Last month, we focused on World Polio Day, and many clubs held events and promoted the annual Train Ride campaign led by Mark and David Anderson. Thank you to all who participated and supported this event to raise awareness and funds for Rotary’s number one priority.
Thank you to all the clubs that contributed to the PolioPlus Fund in October; we gave USD 17,975, bringing the year's total to USD 24,683.
We still have 39 clubs that have not contributed to the PolioPlus Fund. It's not too late; let's champion this cause to our members and clubs to give generously so that no child has to suffer and make the only second communicable disease eradicated from our planet,
This month, we celebrate the Rotary Foundation, a time to recognise and celebrate the transformative work made possible by The Rotary Foundation. Here are several ways to get involved and make a difference:
Dedicate a segment of your next club meeting to share Rotary’s new video showcasing how donations are transformed into projects that promote world understanding, goodwill, and peace. Rotary';s reach is vast and impactful, from fighting diseases and enhancing education to environmental protection and poverty alleviation.
The Rotary Club of Eastwood-Gladesville will have a Zoom meeting on Monday, November 11th, with the Rotary Club of Chennai Towers to collaborate on a Global Grant project to give hope to children affected by Scoliosis. Why not join the meeting to learn how Rotarians and Rotary Clubs work together to create hope and build global friendships through service projects?
Acknowledge Foundation supporters in your club or community. Consider writing thank-you notes or publicly recognising contributors during your meetings. Remember to thank all who engage in service projects and community work. Encourage your fellow Rotarians and friends to participate by giving the gift of Rotary gift. Discuss donation opportunities at your club and share how contributions can lead to meaningful changes.
Your Support Matters - Every contribution, whether through time, effort, or financial donation, amplifies the life-changing work of The Rotary Foundation. Your commitment during Foundation Month ensures we can continue transforming communities and creating positive change locally and globally. Thank you for your steadfast support and dedication to service.
We have 24 clubs in our district that have yet to contribute to Our Foundation—Our Charity. Make it a point to support Your Foundation this month. We have 158 Rotarians, and we reach Every Rotarian Every Year by giving USD 100, which is approximately AUD 150. That’s giving up 30 cups of coffee from your favourite barista.
If you don’t ask, you don’t get, so I am asking you to consider donating and encourage the club to give this month.
Please get in touch with the District Rotary Foundation Team if you have any questions or need a guest speaker at your next meeting with a vacant speaker slot.
Together, we can make November a celebration of giving and gratitude. Enjoy Rotary and be proud of your Foundation – Our Foundation – The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
Haran Ramachandran
Foundation Chair E-Club of Greater Sydney
COMMUNITY SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS
A special shout-out to all of the clubs that run D-Cafs, a great community service for people affected by dementia, and their carers. If you would like to start a D-Caf contact Bobby Redman.
Participating clubs: Crows Nest, Northbridge, North Sydney Sunrise, Hornsby District, Upper Blue Mountains Sunrise, Central Blue, E-Club of Greater Sydney, Kincumber, Ryde, Springwood, St Ives, Terrigal, Brisbane Water and Ku-ring-gai.
Some of the activities that have been going on during September and October…
Kariong-Somersby organised a Rotary Walking for Wellness Family Fun Day to raise
awareness and funds for health and wellbeing on the Central Coast.
Castle Hill organised Run for the Hills to support youth mental health.
Kenthurst has purchased a food trailer to feed those in need in their community.
West Pennant Hills Cherrybrook repaired a shed and put up shelves at the Helping Heats
Survive charity shop at Dural.
Carlingford held their inaugural Harmony and Hearts community event at John Wearne
Reserve and, got their hands dirty at the Telopea Community Garden working bee.
Crows Nest participated in the Annual Crows Nest Fair and were joined by Marys House.
Even better was the expressions of interest in becoming members of Rotary from at least 7
individuals on the day.
Windsor have sponsored a Therapy Dogs program for Hawkesbury Hospital.
St Ives delivered 550 apples, an apple for every teacher, to every school in their patch to
recognise World Teachers Day.
PDG Mina Howard
Commuity Service
Rotary Club of Blackheath
THE ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) opens up the world of Rotary and shares the great potential of Rotary service for the benefit of the world that can be furthered with excellent leadership in our clubs. Our new program with three "levels" of RLI has received great reviews and feedback:
LEVEL ONE: New Member Introduction and Orientation Supporting clubs to help orientate new members to the Rotary World we are offering a 4 hour program which will help your new members to begin to understand our amazing organisation with some hands on tips on how to navigate the vastness that is Rotary.
LEVEL TWO: Traditional RLI
RLI seeks to have Rotary clubs identify members with more than 12 months Rotary experience, who show potential for future club leadership (within their club and beyond, not just as future presidents) so they can be provided a quality education in Rotary knowledge and leadership skills, unique to voluntary organisations, and then apply them with confidence.
LEVEL THREE: Graduate Program
For those looking to take their Rotary learning and leadership journey to the next level.
Upcoming Dates
Level 2 via Zoom : Saturdays 16 & 23 November 9am - 3pm Level 1 via Zoom : Wednesday & Thursday 29-30 January 6pm - 8pm
Level 2 via Zoom : Thursday & Friday 20-21 February 6pm - 8:30pm
Level 2 via Zoom : Thursday & Friday 27-28 February 6pm - 8:30pm
Level 3 via Zoom :Wednesday & Thursday 12-13 March 6pm - 8:30pm Level 1 in Person : Sunday 13 April 9am - 1pm
This program is for any Rotarian or Rotaractors who wants to know more about our incredible organisation. Ideally having been a member for at least 12 months. This amazing course is delivered by a team of district facilitators with all support materials provided. It is usual for clubs to pay for their members to attend.
District 9685 Learning & Development invite you to join in our Expert Sessions series of events. This series is designed to give you access to experts in various fields in Rotary work, practical guides and powerful information to enhance your Rotary experience and impact.
Growing Rotary with New Clubs hosted by our New Clubs Director Ubah Gabris
Getting our Good News Out with Chief Storyteller Liz McDougall
Links to slide decks and recordings of past expert sessions can be found on the District website here.
Register here for Expert Sessions this Saturday 9th November!
MOVIE NIGHT TO END POLIO
WEDNESDAY 6TH NOVEMBER
Castle Hill Rotary are excited to switch things up this Wednesday night with our End Polio Now special movie night fundraiser in place of our usual meeting! Grab a friend, settle in, and get ready for a fun and heartwarming journey with Thelma – a 93-year-old grandma on a mission to reclaim her life savings after a fake phone call leaves her high and dry. Determined and feisty, Thelma takes off on a hilarious cross-country adventure, proving that you’re never too old to right the wrongs!
Join the upcoming Virtual Vocational Exchange (VVE) session talking about "Career Opportunities and Skill Development in the Aviation and Tourism Industry: Navigating a changing Landscape" with Mr Masashi Ogina, Former Regional General Manager of Qantas Japan.
Key Discussion Points:
• Current industry trends and opportunities
• Essential skills for success
• Career advancement pathways
This session is ideal for:
• Aviation and tourism professionals
• Career seekers in travel industry
• Students exploring career options
• Industry professionals seeking advancement
Sign up for the VVE session and the zoom meeting link will be emailed to you on the 10th of November. Please view the poster attached for additional information.
INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY BREAKFAST
FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER
International Men’s Day celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities. It highlights positive role models and raises awareness of men’s well-being. Our theme this year is Men's Health Champions.
The Rotary Club of Norwest Sunrise is proud to arrange this special event to assist men and women in our local community to make a positive difference in men’s well-being.
Our 2024 keynote speakers:
Ned Narouz
Rap 4 Change
Mario Rodrigues
Positive Vibes Foundation
Aaron Huey
Tradies Wellness
WHERE: Maurice’s Café, The Hills Shire Council Chambers,
3 Columbia Court, Baulkham Hills
WHEN: Breakfast from 7.00 am Friday 15th November Speakers commence at 7.15; concludes by 8.40
Rotary Social Impact Network is bringing you two incredible opportunities that are open to members, clubs, individuals, and Rotary community groups. Whether you're looking to grow your skills, engage your community, or expand your reach, these events are packed with value!
Discover and Be Inspired by the Epic Day of Service Movement!
Are you ready to make a greater impact while building excitement within your community? Join us to learn how the Epic Day of Service can help you take what you're already doing—or start something new—and amplify your impact on a local and global scale.
With 21 districts across 7 countries already involved, this movement is all about increasing community reach, member engagement, and adaptability. It's your opportunity to be part of something bigger!
7 PM (Syd, Mel and Canberra - Daylight Savings)
Virtual on Microsoft Teams (Click here to join)
Hear directly from Pat McGuckin, Planning Committee Co-Chair, and Brianna Sherman, Global Expansion Committee Co-Chair, as they share the movement’s journey so far—and where it's headed next and how you can be involved.
THE MINDSET OF AN OLYMPIAN
WEDNESDAY 27TH NOVEMBER
Join us for a special RSIN Guest Speaker Event featuring Olympian Jemima Montag: “The Mindset of an Olympian.”
Jemima Montag is an inspiring Australian athlete, known for her remarkable achievements in race walking. As a two time Commonwealth Games gold medalist and two-time Olympian bronze medalist, Jemima has overcome countless challenges through sheer determination, hard work, and a champion mindset.
In this special event, Jemima will dive into “The Mindset of an Olympian,” sharing how she developed the mental resilience, focus, and leadership qualities needed to excel at the highest levels of sport. Her story will inspire you to apply these principles to your own life, helping you stay motivated, overcome obstacles, and achieve your goals—no matter what path you’re on.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to hear from an Olympian who will empower you to unlock your full potential!
7 PM (Syd, Mel and Canberra - Daylight Savings)
Virtual on Microsoft Teams (Click here to join)
TWILIGHT CHRISTMAS IN BEECROFT VILLAGE
THURSDAY 28TH NOVEMBER
Join Beecroft Rotary Club, Beecroft Place shopping centre, and local Beecroft Businesses coming together to bring you Christmas in The Village.
Enjoy live entertainment, embark on a Treasure Hunt and support local businesses and clubs as we host Twilight Christmas in Beecroft!
Santa arrives on the Beecroft Fire Engine (emergencies permitting) so your little ones can share their Christmas Wish and have their photo taken with the man himself. Festivities start at 3pm, Santa arrives around 5pm (pending traffic from the North Pole).
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF WORLD HERITAGE
THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2025
As we mark the 25-year milestone of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, we invite you to an evening of captivating stories from our remarkable environment.
Join Katoomba Rotary's Gala Dinner for an inspiring evening and hear from keynote speaker Jon Dee, co-founder of Planet Ark.
