Hello, it's September. It's spring and winter is officially behind us. September's Basic Education and Literacy Month.
BASIC EDUCATION & LITERACY MONTH September marks Rotary’s focus on Basic Education and Literacy. It is a time to reflect on how vital the skills of reading, writing, and lifelong learning are to creating brighter futures. Education lays the groundwork for opportunity, and the efforts we make in this area can shape lives and open doors for generations to come.
More than 775 million people worldwide over the age of 15 cannot read or write. Rotary’s commitment is to help change that reality. Our focus is on strengthening communities so they can support quality education, reducing gender inequality in learning opportunities, and empowering adults through literacy programs that open doors to a brighter future. Learn more on YouTube.
DISTRICT GOVERNOR UPDATE
Thank you to everyone, that reached out to me and my family with condolences on the passing of my father. I am very blessed to know such wonderful and compassionate Rotarians.
September is always a month of fresh energy in Rotary – a time when clubs are settling into their goals for the year, new projects are gaining momentum, and we see the strength of our collective impact starting to shine. As I visit clubs across District 9685, I continue to be inspired by the creativity, dedication, and genuine spirit of service that our members bring to their communities.
Thank you for the way you are living out Rotary’s values every day – together, we are making a real difference. Thank you all, for serving the communities and uniting for good.
DG PARTNER PROJECT UPDATE
Are you looking for a guest speaker?
Together, let’s support Australian Rotary Health PHD Scholarship to research and investigate Mental Illness in children 0-12 years. Create a better outcome for the next generation.
SHOUT OUT! Thankyou this month to Springwood Rotary Club and a Rotarian’s personal donation, for their contribution.
AWARDS
Service Above Self Award Nomination
If you know a Rotarian or Rotaractor who has demonstrated exemplary service by helping others and volunteering their time, encourage your successor to nominate them for the Service Above Self award – one of Rotary International’s highest distinctions in service – by completing the online nomination form between 1-31 October.
Nominations are open for the 2025-26 People of Action Honors: Champions of Tomorrow!
The 2025-26 Rotary People of Action Honors will recognize six members of the Rotary family as Champions of Tomorrow. These are young people, between the ages of 13 and 30, who are leading youth-cantered service projects to create a brighter future today.
Rotarians, Rotaractors, Peace Fellows, Global Grant Scholarship recipients, Interact members, RYLA participants, Rotary Youth Exchange students or Rotary alumni are eligible for nomination.
To submit a nomination, or learn more about the People of Action Honors, visit rotary.org/rotary-people-of-action.
District 9685 ClubEnviro Awards
The District EnviroClub Awards recognise and celebrate the efforts of Rotary clubs and individual Rotarians who are taking action to protect our environment and build a more sustainable future. Apply online here.
CONGRATULATIONS
District Communications Co-Ordinator – Tania Mace (Lane Cove Rotary Club). Welcome to the District team.
Interact Club Davidson High School - Sponsored by Belrose Rotary Club. Congratulations.
PDG Christine Owen spoke about Respectful Relationships, click this link to read her speech.
President Graeme Peters (Erina RC), RACG recipient Hayley Webb, President Monica Hart (Erina RC) and RAWCS Belinda Griffen
Libby Lombardo, Bruce Downie (RC Warringah), Dick Smith
PDG Christine with PDG Keith Roffey OAM
Congratulations to Rotarian Bobby Redman, who has received a prestigious Honours Award from the CEO of Dementia Australia. In recognition of the incredible difference, she is making in countless lives across Australia.
CALL TO ACTION
Share Your Stories – Please send your club events, projects, and highlights for inclusion in the District Newsletter and website. Email communications9685@gmail.com or communications@rotarydistrict9685.org.au with your content by the 3rd of each month.
Stay Connected: District Facebook Page: Michele Ellery – District Governor
Please like, follow, and tag this page in your club posts for greater PR reach!
FINAL WORD
As we move forward into the coming weeks, let us continue to support one another, share our Rotary stories, and look for new ways to connect and serve. With October highlighting Rotary’s focus on Community Economic Development, it’s a chance to reflect on how our projects create opportunities and strengthen resilience both locally and globally.
October also brings World Polio Day on the 24th, reminding us of Rotary’s promise to help rid the world of this disease. Together, we are building stronger clubs, stronger communities, and a stronger Rotary for the future. Thank you for the passion, kindness, and commitment you bring to all that you do. It is a privilege to serve alongside you.
Yours in Rotary, Michele District 9685 Governor
Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains
YOUTH PROTECTION TOP TIPS
TIP #3 VERIFYING A WWCC
Verifying a WWCC is more than just writing it down.
Michelle Westlund District Youth Protection Officer
Rotary Social Impact Network
COMMUNITY SERVICE : WHAT'S MY ACTUAL ROLE?
Recently I held an online chat with some of our hard-working Community Service club directors. For an hour we discussed many issues and shared ideas. It was extremely rewarding and I was re-energised after spending this time with them.
Community Service, unlike the other Areas of Service - Youth, Vocational, International and Club Service that are all pretty well-defined, tends to be a very broad brush. I’ve been asked on more than one occasion. ‘What is my actual role?’. This is a legitimate question and one that I personally find difficult to answer succinctly.
Rotary International, in their welcome kit to District Community Service Chairs, poses as a point of discussion the question, ‘What does Community Service mean to your club?’ It occurred to me that this would be a good robust discussion to have at club level in order to define that role because clubs often have varying views and expectations. The club Community Service Director may well ask:
How do you as members define community service?
How would you like me to lead in this portfolio?
What role will each club member have in supporting community service?
We need to seriously consider the word ‘service’. Our membership of Rotary is built on the ideal of service, but that ideal in itself can be difficult to pin down. Are we working extremely hard to put on amazing events that raise thousands of dollars and then simply giving the money away to other organisations to do the ‘service’? Are we perceived by our community as the Bank of Rotary who will provide funds to any worthy cause without any buy-in? Is what we’re doing actually changing lives?
The argument that we are all getting older and can’t physically do lots of hands-on work is also a legitimate one. Even a fund-raising BBQ is hard work (it took me a whole day to recover from standing in one place for six hours cooking sausages). We need to seriously think about how we can partner with other like-minded groups and also join with clubs in our clusters to Increase Our Impact. Working in competitive silos is no longer an option.
PP Peter Russell of Northbridge Rotary Club says that we need to do less and do it well in order to make a bigger impact rather than trying to do lots of little things and spreading our efforts too thinly. Set out to find what your local community needs by talking to other organisations such as your Neighbourhood Centre, local council, schools and community groups and try to find a project that will make a difference. Our ‘Say No to Domestic Violence and Yes to Respectful Relationships’ District and Regional project is worth exploring as are issues of homelessness, food insecurity and the environment. Consider projects that align with the Seven Areas of Focus and importantly, lead the project or at the very least be an equal partner.
I recommend the new Learning Centre course Service Project Essentials. Set aside a club meeting and do it together. As Community Service Director ask for a meeting to be set aside for your members to have a serious look at how the they perceive community service and whether or not a new direction is needed to refresh and energise the club experience.
Great projects can open so many opportunities and help your club become an undeniably relevant and essential community organisation.
PDG Mina Howard District Community Service Chair
Rotary Club of Greater Blue Mountains
NOMINATE FOR GWS PROJECT OF THE YEAR
The Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue’s GWS Project of the Year Awards are back!
These awards recognise the infrastructure and property projects that deliver excellence and drive the sustainable growth of Greater Western Sydney - economically, socially and environmentally.
Finalists and winners will be celebrated at our Boomtown! Gala Dinner in February 2026 (details to follow), with the grand prize winner chosen in consultation with our Dialogue Patrons.
Selection Criteria
Project located in Greater Western Sydney
Completed and opened between January-December 2025
Public or privately funded initiatives are eligible for consideration
We welcome nominations across all platforms, including, but not limited to: transport, education, health, sustainability, housing, culture and community assets.
Nominations are to be submitted through the link below by Friday, 28 November 2025 including:
Our newly revamped program is now in full swing, offering development opportunities for all Rotary members - from newcomers to seasoned leaders seeking to refresh their skills and amplify their impact.
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.
Note to Club Presidents: This is an essential program for your new club members!
Sunday 9th November, 9am - 1pm
Cost: $50
Location: Rotary Office, Norwest
LEVEL THREE: Graduate Program
Experienced Rotarians can take their leadership to the next level with advanced techniques. By bringing real opportunities to the workshop, participants can enhance their impact, through insights from the program and the peer coaching & mentoring from facilitators and fellow Rotarians.
Please reach out with any queries or suggestions via email.
Andrew McIver District RLI Convenor
Rotary Social Impact Network
RYPEN SUMMER CAMP
We are now accepting applications for current year 9 students for the camp on the 13th to 15th of February 2026 at Sydney Academy of Sport (SAS), Narrabeen.
It will be full of great team building, leadership, and personal development activities to stretch the students and we know they'll make some fantastic new friends from across Sydney.
The cost is $450 ea and includes all meals, snacks, activities and accommodation. They just need to bring their sheets, pillows, and personal items. Invoices will be sent from District Treasurer, Steve Thorp once application forms are received and processed.
Click here for the information pack. A link to a more detailed registration form will be sent to the students when SAS open their portal in November/December - this is a government requirement. It also helps us keep in contact with them before the new year when they will be contacted by their team leaders.
We encourage you to invite the students, teachers, parents to a special Rotary meeting so you can build a relationship and exciting atmosphere in the lead up - consider bringing back any previous RYPENians to see what they've been up to as well.
Bass Bhaskaran District Youth Service Co-Chair
Rotary Club of Bella Vista Sunrise
SHARE & INSPIRE IN TAIPEI
Do you have an idea or project you want to share with the Rotary community? Inspire and educate your fellow members by leading a breakout session at the 2026 Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan.
Sessions can address membership growth, service projects, fundraising, and more.
Help us develop a dynamic breakout program for the 2026 convention by submitting a session proposal. Email conventionbreakouts@rotary.org with questions.
OPPORTUNITY : THE MEN'S KITCHEN CASTLE HILL
Men’s Kitchen was started nearly a decade ago to teach older men basic kitchen skills in a social setting. Men’s Kitchen, a registered charity, is now launching in the Hills District in October and is seeking older men who would like to learn some basic cooking skills with a few new mates.
HOW DOES MEN'S KITCHEN WORK?
At each cooking session, up to 10 men work together to prepare a two course-meal under the guidance of three experienced volunteer instructors. Everyone chooses the part of the meal they would like to prepare and once cooking is completed, everyone sits down together to talk about and enjoy the meal.
LIKE TO GET INVOLVED?
The Men’s Kitchen is looking for 20 older men who would like to learn some basic kitchen skills and would like to do so in a social environment.
If you would like to participate or would like more information about joining the Men’s Kitchen, contact Alison Johnson on info.hd@menskitchen.org.au or 0493 333 352.
OPPORTUNITY : PEACE PROJECT IN THE CONGO
POSITIVE PEACE TRAINING IN THE DRC Seeking club and district grant support for April 2026 training
This is a project to equip and empower women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with the knowledge and tools to address their needs and improve social and economic participation, build social cohesion and community resilience. The April 2026 training will be focused on understanding and applying the Positive Peace framework as a tool for participant-led discussions and outcomes so the women can:
Propose projects and interventions that meet their needs and foster peace in their communities, and
Strengthen community engagement and improve their leadership skills.
Positive Peace trainers will be Rev.Dr. Marthe Kondemo (L), the first Congolese to receive a Royce and Jean Abbey vocational scholarship to Australia and Patricia Garcia AO, a Peace Fellow alumna.
For a quick background on the conflict in the DRC click here.
For more information, please contact Lucy Hobgood-Brown, Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney, on handupcongo@gmail.com or +61(0)417 272 101.
OPPORTUNITY : COOK & CONNECT UNIVERSITY PROGRAM
Join Ryde Rotary's Zoom meeting this month to hear from 2025 Social Enterprise National Champions "Cook & Connect" from Griffith University.
These enterprising students have designed a program for skills growth and professional development while combating social isolation and building community.
Originally supported by Northern Gold Coast Rotaract, Cook & Connect is a program for universities that can scale nationally at the core of Rotary and Rotaract clubs.
Planning for this year's Carols on the Common which will be held on Sunday 14 December 2025 is now well underway. The Carols committee are seeking members and friends to assist with the many volunteer tasks that need to be undertaken on the day and during the evening of the Carols.
We particularly need strong, able people to help with the setting up and packing up phases of the event. The more helpers we have the quicker this can be done. If you cannot help with this the heavier tasks, there are a number of other tasks that may suit you better.
We will, once again, be running a Christmas raffle throughout the event with three baskets of Christmas goodies to be won. We are seeking donations of items to go in these baskets as part of the prizes, such as bonbons, Christmas cake or pudding, shortbread biscuits, wine, serviettes or any other Christmas fare items.
In March 2026 Marsden High is undertaking an interstate excursion to the Northern Territory with the intention of offering Year 7 - 11 students a broader insight into components of both the compulsory NSW History syllabus, as well as Stage 6 subjects such as Society & Culture and Aboriginal Studies.
The school currently has eight Aboriginal students attending the trip, three of whom are in out of home care. This trip is going to be a fantastic opportunity for these students to deepen their cultural identity and explore different Country.
We are hoping to reduce the cost of the trip for these families through fundraising, and would greatly appreciate the assistance of experienced Rotarians at:
BBQ + Cake Stall at Rydalmere Bunnings - Sunday 9th November
A Trivia Night early 2026 (expertise organising and running needed!)
Rotarians available to assist these young people with manpower or donations, please contact me via email.
BobSelinger District First Nations Partnerships Coordinator
Rotary Club of North Ryde
CLUB HIGHLIGHTS
E-CLUB OF GREATER SYDNEY
Each year our current Rotary E-Club Secretary Haran Ramachandran makes Biryani as a fundraiser for End Polio Now. Our member Ross Johnson purchased one, as well as a Rotary cake - fund-raising for member Val Bland's medical project in Nepal.
SPRINGWOOD ROTARY CLUB
Springwood Rotary’s Monster Garage Sale was a wonderful success, with a warm and friendly atmosphere enjoyed by all and many happy customers throughout the day.
Funds raised will support Rotary projects both locally and globally, as well as contribute to the wellbeing of residents at Buckland Retirement Village.
NORTH SHORE AREA ROTARY CLUBS
North Shore MP Felicity Wilson is a proud Rotarian. In a recent speech to NSW Parliament (8 September) she began by saying:
“I have deep pride in and heartfelt appreciation for the three wonderful Rotary clubs that call my electorate of North Shore home: Mosman, Crows Nest and North Sydney Sunrise. As we all know, Rotary is so much more than a service organisation; it is a global movement of 1.4 million people who see a need and step up to help. It is formed of people who act with compassion, lead with integrity and bring communities together. For many people in my electorate, being a Rotarian is a calling. The strength of their work, whether it is local or international, reminds us all of the power of collective goodwill”.
Initially we'll be meeting fortnightly on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month from 6pm. If you'd like to join us register for the next meeting on Monday 13 October at this link.
THE PONDS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
In a significant boost for community wellbeing and sustainable living, the local Rotary Club The Ponds has officially broken ground on an ambitious new community garden project in the heart of the rapidly expanding Northwest growth area. The initiative, designed to foster connection, provide fresh produce, and promote environmental stewardship, is being hailed as a model of community partnership.
The local Member for Riverstone, the Hon. Warren Kirby and The Rotary Club The Ponds have come together to initiate this project by emphasising its alignment with broader community needs. The project has kick started and is currently at its planning stage which will be implemented in stages.
Northwest Sydney is one of the fast-growing corridors, projects like this are vital. They provide not just nutritional benefits, but also a place for neighbours to connect, for young people to learn, and for everyone to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits of working with nature. The garden will transform a vacant parcel of land into a thriving hub of raised garden beds, communal composting areas, and native plant zones. It is envisioned as a space where residents of all ages and backgrounds can learn about gardening, share skills, and cultivate fresh, healthy food together.
Mr. Kirby proposed the concept, driving the project from concept to reality as Club President and Project Manager, Ahalya Rentala along with the team Anitha Prabhu, Adam Shah, Joanne, Chantal,TJ, Ashwin. A long-time advocate for sustainable urban development, Ms. Rentala explained that the garden addresses several key challenges faced by new communities.
“When new families move into developing areas, they often seek opportunities to put down roots, both literally and figuratively,” said Ms. Rentala. “This garden answers that call. It’s a practical resource for those without garden space of their own, an educational tool for our children, and a powerful catalyst for building the social fabric that turns a collection of houses into a true neighbourhood.”
Our Rotary club is built on the ethos of ‘Service Above Self,’ and we believe this project embodies that perfectly. We’re not just planting vegetables; we’re planting connections.
Mr. Kirby says “I am incredibly proud to support the Rotary Club in this endeavour. This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when community organisations and all levels of government work together towards a common goal,” he added. An initial grant has been facilitated from Mr. Kirby office to kick start the project.
Currently, the project is in the planning stage, The project will be implemented through a combination of Rotary fundraising, volunteer labour, and a community grant facilitated by Mr. Kirby’s office. The next phase will involve recruiting local volunteers to help build garden beds and maintain the space once operational.
Families and individuals interested in securing a garden plot or volunteering are encouraged to contact the Rotary Club through their website or social media pages.
Ahalya Rentala President
Rotary Club of The Ponds
RAWCS RECEIVES ANOTHER MILLION DOLLARS
Dick and Pip Smith have contributed another $1 million dollars on top of their initial $2 million dollars to the Rotary Australia Compassionate Grants (RACG) program.
This generous offer allows clubs to apply for up to $15,000 as a matching grant to assist people facing hardship doubling the impact of Rotary club fundraising efforts. Please consider how your club can take advantage of this amazing offer.
The Rotary Club of Gosford City is inviting locals to lace up their walking shoes for the first ever Wellness Walk, taking place along the beautiful Gosford waterfront on Tuesday, 22 October, from 7.00am – 8.30am at Lions Park.
Timed to coincide with Mental Health Month, the Wellness Walk is designed to highlight the benefits of simple daily activities – like going for a morning stroll – for boosting mental health and wellbeing.
Rotary volunteer and project lead Leanne Faulkner says the idea grew from a desire to bring the community together around a positive and accessible approach to mental health.
“We know from research that good mental health can be supported by doing simple things, and going for a walk is one of them,” Ms Faulkner said.
“Gosford is such a beautiful place to walk, right on the water’s edge, so we thought – let’s combine that with Rotary’s community spirit and create a morning where people can connect, move, and feel good together.”
The event begins at Lions Park (between the Gosford Pool and Sailing Club), with walkers heading along the flat foreshore path to the public wharf before returning to enjoy a hearty breakfast, sponsor stalls, music, and a special guest speaker.
It’s all about connection, conversation, and community.
The walk will be finished by 8.15am so people can take part and then head off to work or start their day. It’s a small time commitment for a big wellbeing boost.
Registrations are $10 per person, which includes breakfast, and all funds raised will go towards Gosford City Rotary’s local community projects that support health, wellbeing, and resilience in the area.
Every dollar raised goes back into initiatives that make a difference for local people. By joining us for a walk, you’re helping Rotary continue its work across projects that strengthen our community.
Everyone is welcome to take part – whether solo, with friends, or as a workplace or community team. Individuals and groups are encouraged to register online before the event and can even add a creative team name. Special prizes will be announced for those who pre-book tickets. You can also register on the day, if you find you’re free at the last minute.
There will be prizes for creativity and team spirit, encouraging participants to dress up, wear their workplace colours, or simply come as they are. We’re hoping for sunshine but bring your ponchos if it’s wet weather as the walk will still go ahead.
The Rotary Club of Gosford City extends its thanks to the event sponsors: Aussie Gosford, John Dimond Counselling, GITTOES, North Construction & Building, Evolve Chiropractic, Flipside IT and Mark Anderson Property.
St Ives Food and Wine Festival returned to the St Ives Village Green on Sunday 21 September 2025. It was a full day of multicultural celebrations of gourmet food, fine wines, boutique lifestyle stalls and fun for all the family!
Proudly hosted by the Rotary Club of St Ives, this year’s theme was celebrating our multicultural community and featuring more than 70 stalls serving cuisines from around the globe, boutique wines, craft beers, and artisan products.
Enjoy live entertainment including dance, and exciting performances all day. Scottish pipes and drums from Knox Old Boys open the event and the music and performances had visitors tapping their feet and up and active. The Kids’ Zone included face painting, pony rides, jumping castles, petting zoo and Planet Entertainment rides.
All proceeds support Ku-ring-gai Community Centre, The Cromehurst Foundation and Rotary’s youth programs.
TOGETHER FOR TOMORROW : DISTRICT CONFERENCE
Those 1970s Rotary Cops are on the case to solve the biggest mystery...more details about the combined District Conference!
Mark your calendars for 20–21 March 2026 as Newcastle comes alive with the Together for Tomorrow. Hosted across the Civic Theatre, City Hall, and the NEX Exhibition & Convention Centre, this event promises to inspire, connect, and entertain Rotarians from across the region.
INSPIRING SPEAKERS The conference line-up features an exciting mix of thought-provoking leaders and changemakers. Professor Fred Watson AM, Australia’s Astronomer at Large, will share his passion for the universe.
Marnie Ogg, renowned Dark Sky Defender, will shed light on protecting our night skies. Deborah Thomas, CEO of Camp Quality, a cancer survivor and former editor of The Australian Women’s Weekly, bringing insights from a remarkable career in leadership and advocacy. Dr Mikaela Coleman, infectious diseases researcher working to eliminate tuberculosis and leprosy across the Pacific.
Christie Dawes, Paralympian wheelchair racer and six-time Games competitor, speaking on resilience, leadership, and inclusion, while District Governors Evan Burrell (9660) and Michele Ellery (9685) will lead with vision and Rotary spirit. Together, they’ll
challenge us to imagine a brighter, better tomorrow.
AFFORDABLE & FLEXIBLE REGISTRATION One of the standout features of this year’s conference is its affordability. The Full Experience Early Bird package—covering the Friday Cocktail Reception at Town Hall, Saturday Conference at Civic Theatre, and Gala Dinner at NEX, is just $239 (limited to 200 tickets, until 30 September). After that, the price is $269. Prefer to join Saturday only? The Saturday Experience is $209 early bird or $239 standard. Individual tickets are also available: Conference $129 or Gala Dinner $130. With such flexible options, there’s something to suit everyone’s schedule and budget.
SATURDAY NIGHT EXTRAVAGANZA The conference culminates in the glamorous “That’s Entertainment” Gala Dinner, a Hollywood-themed fancy-dress evening. Come dressed as your favourite movie or music icon, whether it’s Batman, Madonna, Darth Vader, Audrey Hepburn, Elvis, or Indiana Jones and enjoy fine dining, fellowship, and high-energy live music from Fish Fry / Pow Wow, Newcastle’s premier jump-jive jazz and swing band.
With world-class speakers, accessible pricing, and an unforgettable social programme, Together for Tomorrow is set to be one of the most exciting Rotary conferences yet.
Come and experience this amazing event and support Rotary & the NSW Police Force – celebrate excellence in Policing.
We have at the night the Mounted Police Horses out the front of the Hotel, specialised Police cars and Police motor bikes, plus the NSW Police Rock Band is our entertainment after the awards ceremony for some dancing / fun / celebrations.
All profits from this event is shared between Rotary Foundation and NSW Police Legacy.
On the night we have silent auction items and raffle tickets for sale, we are also selling our Police soft toy dogs and horses.
We have some live auction items as well – NSW Polair experience, Police Marine Experience, NSW Police Force – Dog Unit School Visit and African Safari package, plus more …….
If anyone wishes to donate a prize for the silent auction or raffle prize, please contact Trina Phillips on 0432 22 44 89 or email address: info@allegianceloans.com.au (Joint Chair of Rotary NSW POOTYA)
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.
End Polio Now
PDG Judith Diment MBE (UK)
Rotary Representative to the Commonwealth
Dean, Rotary Representatives to the UN (2020-24)
Rotary Action Groups Advisory Council (2024-25)
Vice Chair International Polio Plus Committee
Judith Diment MBE is Rotary International's senior diplomat, joining Ryde Rotary to share her experiences and knowledge from decades on the front line of the program to eradicate polio in Foundation month.
Join us for a relaxed and joyful Rotary District 9685 picnic designed to celebrate YOU – the people who give so much to others. This is a chance to fill your cup with laughter, connection, and gratitude, surrounded by fellow Rotarians, families, and friends.
Sunday 1st February 2026
11.30 am - 3.30 pm
Fagan Park, Carrs Road 1 & 2 Picnic Areas, Carrs Road, Galston NSW
Event Highlights
Fun lawn games and light-hearted competitions
Great food and drinks – BYO picnic or use the BBQ facilities available
Family-friendly activities and picnic vibes
Connection, conversation, and community
Family and friends welcome
Why "Cup-Full of Connection"?
Because even the most generous hearts need time to pause, breathe, and be with those who understand the joy of service, let this day be a gentle reminder that you matter, your well-being matters, and fellowship is one of Rotary’s greatest gifts.
Bring your picnic rug, your Rotary spirit, and your favourite people – and let’s fill our cups together.
Join us in Taipei, Taiwan, for the Rotary International Convention 13–17 June 2026!
This dynamic city is the perfect place to celebrate Rotary with friends old and new. From inspiring sessions to unforgettable cultural experiences, you won’t want to miss it!
