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District 9685 Rotary Round Up

20th June 2024

ROTARY'S VISION
KING'S BIRTHDAY HONOURS
TO
 
 
Profile photo of Pam pritchard
 
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Pam Pritchard AM 
RC of Turramurra
For significant service to the community, to social welfare, and to primary education.
 
 
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Professor John Skerritt AM
Hampton VIC 3188
He is a former Ambassadorial Scholar from 968 and therefore an Alumni of TRF D9685
For significant service to public health administration and governance, and to scientific research.
 
AND TO
Norman KITTO OAM
RC of Springwood 
For service to the communities of the Blue Mountains and Western Sydney,
and 
Cheryl KITTO OAM
RC of Springwood 
For service to the communities of the Blue Mountains and Western Sydney, and to people with disability.
Roger WILKINSON OAM
Honorary Member, Roger Wilkinson OAM who joined the Rotary Club of Chatswood in 1971 and served for 50 years
For service to the community, and to acoustic engineering.
 
 
Read more...
CAMPAIGN AGAINST DOMESTIC  FAMILY VIOLENCE (DFV)
Say NO to Domestic and Family Violence
and YES to Respectful Relationships
 
During the past year we’ve worked with all Clubs throughout the District and kept you up to date with the DFV campaign and our various activities and events. But as we’re coming to the close of the current Rotary year, it is a good time to reflect on what our DFV Committee has undertaken and achieved in our inaugural year in operation. 
We started by forming an active and dedicated Committee drawn from representatives from across the District with an interest and/or expertise in the campaign. This group of around 25 Rotarians then worked in a teams-based structure to accomplish the following:
 
Community Walks – during the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, Rotarians walked to highlight our stance to Say NO to Domestic and Family Violence and YES to Respectful Relationships.  Each of the walks was different. Some have been held in conjunction with ‘Reclaim the Night’ events, others were organised by Rotary Clubs themselves in their local patch, while others were conducted by local councils or by local DFV organisations. Overall Rotarians walked as part of the 15 or so community walks in Penrith, Mosman, Castle Hill on the Central Coast, and everywhere in-between. Donned in our purple T-shirts and carrying banners and core flute signs, we stood alongside other service Clubs like Lions, Zonta and Soroptimists, politicians from all parties and levels of government we held tight to women and children with lived experiences of DFV. It was humbling and a privilege to undertake these walks – so well done all for supporting these walks and helping to raise awareness and spread a strong and powerful message that the scourge of domestic and family violence must be stopped. And just when you thought our pedometers where full, we did it again at the District Conference in Terrigal in March 2024. This time round we were joined in our walk by students from Terrigal High School and together with some further fundraising at the Conference dinner, went on to raisearound $10,000 for the DV account.
 
 
Projects – all Clubs in the District were encouraged to undertake or collaborate with other Clubs to undertake projects specifically related to DFV. And boy did you take this message on board!!  By mid-March approx. 45 projects, were underway with 1500+ hours spent and $150,000 raised. By year end this has increased to 55 projects, more than 2000 hours volunteered and in the vicinity of $200,000 raised and contributed to the victims of domestic and family violence. So far this Rotary year, 60% of clubs in our District have engaged in projects and activities related to DFV (eg guest speakers, Walks, Food collections and the funding the school program Love Bites.) This has provided in dollar value close to $150,000 and in terms of time spent working in this space in excess of 1500 hours.
 
Education – a key highlight for the DFV Committee was the highly successful educational webinar: “Practical Ways to Stop Domestic + Family Violence in Your Community”. This event took place in May 2024, which is designated as DV awareness month, and saw 420 Rotarians and non-Rotarians from around Australia New Zealand and the Pacific Islands register for the event and have 200 online during the live feed.  Held in conjunction with DV NSW, and facilitated by Wahroonga Rotarian, Sallianne McClelland, DG Christine Owen was joined in a panel discussion by Annabelle Daniel OAM (Founding CEO Women's Community Shelters, Chair DV NSW, Chair Coercive Control Implementation Taskforce), Jess Hill (NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence 2024, Journalist, Author and Educator on Coercive Control), and Dannielle Miller OAM (Educator, Freelance Writer, Best Selling Parenting Author and Director of Walk The Talk with Women's Community Shelters).  The webinar was yet another valuable initiative to help spread awareness, provide assistance, and offer resources to combat family and domestic violence. If you haven’t seen the webinar yet, you can access it here: https://youtu.be/sf4hv4RY8dY
 
Raising Awareness – many Committee members have been active in raising awareness of DFV in all forms with their own Rotary Clubs, other Clubs in their cluster, Rotaract Clubs and with other community groups and service organisations. We’ve also been engaging with key partners in the DFV space such as the NSW Police Force, with whom NSW Rotary Districts share a Memorandum of Understanding. Many of our community walks were undertaken in conjunction with Police colleagues and yet more officers from Local Area Commands have visited local Clubs as guest speakers on the topic of DFV. The regard in which Rotary is held is demonstrated none better than by being invited by the NSW Police Commissioner to hold an exhibit at the upcoming DV Conference for NSWPF staff around Coercive Control: The Silent Crime, 27-28 June 2024 at Accor Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park. 
 
Educational Scholarships – establishing a strong and lasting legacy in the prevention of DFV has been a key consideration for the Committee over the year. To this end we are in the final stages of establishing scholarships that support the educational endeavours of individuals impacted by DFV to enrol or re-enrol in TAFE or university studies so as to leverage change in their lives and assist in sustaining the needs of their family, as well as for higher degree research in DFV that effects change in policy and structural reform. To help seed this project, our sponsorship team is working on obtaining grants, working with corporate sponsors, as well as planning for our next big event – a Garden Party fundraiser on Saturday 21 September (1.30-4.30pmm) at The Vicar, Dural. So, save the date for what will be a wonderful way to take this project forward.
As you can see my friends, a very busy and productive year for a Committee who only commenced its role in August 2023. We’ve punched well above our weight but still have so much more to go. The good news is, that this campaign and the DFV Committee will keep on with the important work we do, as incoming DG Niranjan as well as DGE John Campbell and DGN Michele Ellery have all committed to this cause during their terms with the same vigour and passion as DG Christine.
 
In closing I’d especially like to thank the members of the DFV Committee for their hard work, insight and resourcefulness throughout the year. My thanks also extend to all Rotarians across the District who have confronted this difficult issue, collaborated alongside us and who have embraced the challenges that come from working in this space – well done! And finally, to DG Christine who hasn’t waned throughout the year, in her commitment to the DFV campaign and who has helped to ensure strong foundations have been laid for the future success of our campaign.
Until the new Rotary year,
Best regards, Janelle Craig Chair District 9685 DFV Committee
DISTRICT 9685 AND BEYOND NEWS  20th June 2024
 
1.  Reminder to Register for the DISTRICT 9685 CHANGEOVER 2024 -  29TH JUNE 2024 - Register here: https://www.crsadmin.com/EventPortal/Registrations/PublicFill/EventPublicFill.aspx?evtid=dc8c59c0-d89f-459c-ae0a-a32434b29562

Click on the image below for a larger view

 
2. The Rotary Social Impact Network - Special Extra Meeting by Zoom
On behalf of President Elect Ben Brown, the Rotary Social Impact Network is inviting you to their first meeting of the 2024/25 year where RIPE Stephanie Urchick will be our guest speaker.
 
 
They are hosting a special extra meeting, as the then newly inducted, RI President Stephanie Urchick has agreed to be our special guest, 10th July. Please note the time is 10pm AEST to allow for our RIP to be available.
 
Here are a couple of other images that you can use when inviting people to join this meeting.
 
3. The Alzheimer’s / Dementia Rotary Action Group (ADRAG) would appreciate your assistance in distributing the following information to the membership of District 9685
June marks an important time for all of us as we recognize Alzheimer's and the significant impact it has on individuals, families, and communities. At the Alzheimer's / Dementia Rotary Action Group (ADRAG), we are dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and fostering hope for those affected by these challenging conditions. Our mission at ADRAG is not just to bring attention to Alzheimer's but to mobilize action and resources that can lead to meaningful change. This month, we call upon you to join us in our efforts by supporting the initiatives and programs that ADRAG champions
 
One way to support ADRAG is by encouraging others to become members. For a minimum annual donation of $25, individuals can join ADRAG and help us in our mission to assist those living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Membership not only supports our initiatives but also connects members with a network of individuals committed to making a difference. Additionally, members can take an active role by organizing fundraising activities. By filling out the ADRAG fundraising request form, we provide the tools and resources needed to run various fundraising events on behalf of ADRAG. Creativity and dedication can make a significant impact in raising funds and awareness. Another powerful way to make a difference is by participating in a Community Benefit Business Network (CBBN). The concept of the CBBN echoes the very principles upon which Rotary was founded. When Paul Harris established Rotary in 1905, his vision was to create a network of professionals who could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lasting friendships while making a positive impact on their communities. The Community Benefit Business Networks we are developing today are a modern extension of this vision, fostering collaboration between businesses and Rotary to drive community support and development.
CBBNs are innovative business networks being established by Rotary Districts nationwide. These networks involve local businesses that commit to contributing a portion of the proceeds from their products and services to causes supported by Rotarians, such as ADRAG. By doing so, they create a sustainable flow of funds that can significantly bolster our efforts to combat Alzheimer's and dementia. For additional information or assistance, Please contact:
Chris Nakea
Public Image Coordinator, ADRAG

4. Congratukations to PDG Lindsay May OAM and Tania May

PDG Lindsay May and President Elect Tania Mace, both of Lane Cove Rotary. Lindsay was awarded the honour of Lane Cove Citizen of the Year last Wednesday evening and Tania was given a Leadership Award. 

5. PNG Landslide Appeal - Message from DG Paul Roger D9620 (which includes PNG)

Many of you will have seen the media reports of a significant landslide in PNG that has reportedly buried an entire village.  Media reports can be confusing (and sometimes exaggerated) so Rotarians in PNG are travelling to the site this week to make a accurate assessment. I will let you all know of their report when it comes through. We have released the attached update.
We have liaised with Rotary partners, such as ShelterBox, and other organisations, and the small scale of the disaster, its location and security/safety concerns mean that a local response to aid recovery is likely to be most effective.
Donations to the RAWCS fund are welcomed.
 
Papua New Guinea Landslide Disaster Relief Appeal
Description: To provide relief and support to those impacted communities of Papua New Guinea (PNG) in response to the landslide Disaster at Yambali in Enga Provence.
Sponsored by: RAWCS National
Donations can be made to the RAWCS project using this link
 
Update
The situation is rather sad, in that there is little we can do to assist at this time due to the tribal rivalry in the area.
 
Our District 9620 Area Governor who was able to visit the Disaster Coordination Centre near the landslide site has advised that the situation remains unclear, and is probably likely to be never confirmed, what the exact population of the Mulitaka village was as there have never been any official surveys of the villages in the area.
The best estimate by the officials at the disaster coordination centre are that approximately 600 villagers have lost their lives when buried under the landslide. The number of home/huts, and families, is not known.
The tribal nature of the area, with frequent disputes/fights and deaths, has meant the area was very much a no go area in the past. This situation continues.
The PNG Government has set up a Disaster Coordination Centre in a nearby town, but are not permitting entry to the actual village area where the landslide occurred. The area is to become a grave site, with no further attempts to recover those buried.
Local villagers in the area have been fighting over the aid contributions that initially flooded in from overseas and from businesses in PNG. Unfortunately a lot of the aid had been stolen and in one case a container (reportedly sent by the UN) was ransacked and the contents burnt. The media continues to publish inaccurate and exaggerated stories.
 
Our District Area Governor has advised, and her view is supported by other senior Rotarians in PNG that at present it is better to wait until the Wabag Disaster Committee in PNG is able to come to us with accurate information and aid requirements.  In this respect fundas are accumulating in our RAWCS project in readiness. I also understand, but do not have confirmation, that there is continuing land movement in the area and the PNG Government may consider trying to relocate other villages. However I stress this is not confirmed, and given the misleading stories from the area we need to wait for more accurate and official information. I hope this gives you a clear picture. I am giving similar advice to other RI groups and similar agencies who often partner with Rotary.
It is gratifying to see the support being offered, but at this time there is sadly not much that can be done effectively and safely.
Best Regards
Paul Roger, 
District Governor 2023-24
District 9620
 
6. Club Buzz Articles
There are a few articles in Club Buzz that are well worth reading which are imn addition to Club News and events. Don't forget to click on the Club Buzz link to view them.
 
7. Club Changeovers 
As we come to the end of the Rotary year, there are many celebratory events being planned by each Club. To advertise or promote one of them is criminal. To advertise or promote all of them is impossible. We wish you all the best for your Club's event and the best of luck for the new Rotary year.

 

    THE CLUB BUZZ
    "The Club Buzz" is where you will find some exciting and relevant programs or events happening in our Clubs and in District 9685.
    To view the Club Buzz Design Guidelines for Clubs to provide information for Club Buzz, click HERE.   
    To view this week's Club Buzz 20.06.24, click HERE. It contains the following news and events for Clubs in District 9685.
     
    Rotary Club of Castle Hill - Run For the Hills
    Rotary Club of Richmond - Winter Appeal
    Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches - Art Show
    Rotary Club of Club of Gosford - 3rd Age Rock Orchestra
    Rotary Club of Castle Hill - Rotary Impact Podcast - NEW
    Rotary Club of Castle Hill - Run For The Hills  - Registration Now Open!
    Rotary Club of Warringah - Beach to Beach Fun Run
    Rotary Club of Balgowlah - Cars n' Clues Road Rally
    Rotary Clubs of Central Blue Mountains -  Empowering Global Changemakers
    Rotary Club of Warringah - Presentation by PDG Bruce Lakin
    Rotary Club of Blackheath - Sentru Formasaun Ba Juventude Libby Bleakley
    ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION 2025
    Click on the image above to go the Conference website.
    ROTARY THEME FOR JUNE

    This month's theme is Rotary Fellowships

     

    Click on the image above for more information about Rotary Fellowships.

    Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
     
    In the spirit of reconciliation, Rotary District 9685 acknowledges
    the Traditional Custodians of country throughout our district,
    and their connections to land, sea and community. 
    We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and
    extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
     
     
    Australia Printables for Primary School - SparkleBox
     
    END DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
     
     
    2023-2024 Theme logo - English
     
    District 9685 Governor
    2023-2024
    Christine Owen

    Monthly theme for June is Rotary Fellowships

    In Memoriam
     
    Please email 
    to let us know of any bereavements you would like published.  It would be much appreciated if you also sent a short biography and photo for an information
    link in In Memoriam.
    You may also inform your Assistant Governor, the District Secretary, or the Governor.  Remember to also update
    your club's member database on the District website
     
    UPCOMING EVENTS FOR
    YOUR DIARY
     
    District Changeover, 29th June 2024
    Jun 29, 2024
    6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
     
    View entire list
    ROTARY ON THE MOVE
    JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Confirming there is NO Change to The Rotary Foundation processes during the Regionalisation Pilot Project
    • Rotary Learning Centre On Mobile Devices
    To read, click HERE
     
    ROTARY IN REVIEW
    14th JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • The joys of volunteering for the Rotary Youth Exchange program
    • Finding her people through Rotary Youth Leadership Awards
    To read, click HERE
     
    LEARNING IN ACTION
    JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • View Convention breakout sessions
    • Rotary Fellowship Basics
    To read, click HERE
     
    ROTARY LEADER
    MAY 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Connect with Rotary’s Positive Peace Activators
    • Design your Rotary Experience
    To read, click HERE
     
    ROTARY SERVICE AND ENGAGEMENT
    JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Rotary honors six members as People of Action
    • Seven new Rotary Fellowships unite our global community
    To read, click HERE
    MEMBERSHIP MINUTE
    JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • 4 ways to get new members engaged quickly 
    • A new name for the Rotary Citation 
    To read, click HERE
    YOUNG LEADERS IN ACTION
    JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Programs for Young Leaders Contact 
    • It started with Rotary Youth Exchange: How Rotary is influencing my career
    To read, click HERE
     
    INTERPLAST NEWSLETTER
    JUNE 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Interplast are back in Bhutan
    • Restoring more than function in the Philippines
    To read, click HERE
     
    GLOBAL POLIO ERADICATION NEWSLETTER
    MAY 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Ending Polio in Pakistan
    • Kicking polio out of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
    To read, click HERE
     
    NEWSLETTER 
    MAY 2024
     
    Great articles such as:
    • Vacancies in ROMAC
    • Patient Updates
    To read, click HERE
     
    WASH RAG NEWSLETTER
    MAY 2024
    Great articles such as:
    • Mario and Much More in Singapore
    • WASH Rotary Action Group Brochure
    • Make a Difference
    To read, click HERE
     
     
    Click on the image above to view the merchandise
    KENNARDS STORAGE
    Contact Details
    6-8 Phyllis Avenue
    Thornleigh NSW 2120
    Phone    +61 2 9481 9400
    Email      thornleigh@kss.com.au
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