District Governor Update - June 2026
District Governor Update – Late April & May 2026
As we moved from the solemn reflections of ANZAC Day into a full and vibrant month of Rotary activity, it has been inspiring to see the breadth of service, leadership, and connection across our District.
On 25 April, I had the honour of attending the ANZAC Day Commemoration with the Tamil Associations NSW at Wenty Leagues, a meaningful reminder of service and sacrifice that resonates deeply with Rotary values.
The final days of April were busy with club visits and celebrations. I visited Kenthurst Rotary Club, where we proudly inducted Michael, an 18-year-old new member – a wonderful sign of Rotary’s future.
Visits to the St Ives Rotary Club and the Rotaract E-Club Downunder's Charter Night (held online) highlighted the diversity and energy within our Rotary family. We also saw RESCA nominations close on 29 April, marking the beginning of an important recognition process.
May has been a truly dynamic month across the District.
Key planning work for the 2027 District Conference, including a productive Zoom meeting on 1 May and a site visit to Mudgee on 3 May, where preparations are progressing well. Well done to the Conference team.
Collaboration and leadership development have been strong themes, with:
- COTA, G-Train, District and Presidents meetings
- The opening of RYLA registrations (4 May)
Our focus on culture and community impact continues with the Respectful Relationships Committee meeting and attendance at the Macquarie Park Rotary Club Healthcare Awards, which celebrate excellence in our communities.
A major highlight was our District Assembly on 9 May, where incoming leaders came together with enthusiasm and commitment for the year ahead. Thankyou so very much to Learning & Development Chair, Michelle Westlund, for all your expertise and time bringing the program to life. Thankyou to Julie Thorp for supporting the catering of the event and everyone who attended and assisted on the day.
Thankyou to President Elect Kathryn Dodd (Ryde Rotary Club) on the very impressive new 2026/27 Directories.
Congratulations to the new incoming 2026/27 Rotary Community Leaders,
Mid-May was particularly significant, with:
- Attendance at the RAWCS 60th Anniversary at Governor House, Canberra
- Participation in an Epic Day of Service (16 May) showcasing Rotary in action
- Engagement with our youth programs through Northern, Central Coast, and Western MUNA events, where the passion and talent of young people were truly inspiring
RAWCS 60th Anniversary Launch, Governor General's House
What an incredible honour to represent Rotary District 9685 at Government House in Canberra for the 60th Anniversary celebration of RAWCS — Rotary Australia World Community Service — hosted by the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC.
It was a truly special evening celebrating six decades of Australians changing lives and supporting communities around the world through RAWCS, including the official launch of 60 Stories Over 60 Years.
The evening was a powerful reminder that Rotary people don’t just change lives locally — they leave footprints globally.
It was also wonderful catching up with fellow District Governors, Past District Governors, and even a Rotary International Director, all united by the incredible impact Rotary continues to make across the world.
A very special congratulations to our own Sue O’Neill OAM from the Rotary Club of Brisbane Water, who was recognised and honoured amongst many inspirational Rotarians for her outstanding dedication to the Pink Umbrella Foundation.
The Pink Umbrella Foundation’s primary mission is to address social inequities in developing countries through interventions that are substantially life-changing and touch as many people as possible. Their work continues to expand access to education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable communities.
Congratulations, Sue — a truly deserving recognition for your passion, leadership, and commitment to making the world a better place through Rotary service. 💙💛
Throughout the month, I have had the privilege of visiting many clubs, including:
- Lower Blue Mountains
- Gosford City
- Springwood
- Social Impact (online)
- Mosman
- Terrigal
Each visit reinforces the strength, diversity, and dedication of our members.
We also celebrated vocational excellence at the Lane Cove and Crows Nest Rotary Clubs' Pride of Workmanship Awards, a cornerstone of Rotary’s commitment to recognising service above self in everyday work.
The month concluded with a meaningful visit to Moree (27–30 May) led by PDG Pam Pritchard, which supported the Books in Homes program and reinforced the life-changing impact of literacy and education in our communities.
This period has demonstrated the very best of Rotary – service, leadership, youth engagement, and strong community connection. Thank you to every club and member contributing to this incredible momentum.
Together, we continue to make a difference.
Michele Ellery
District Governor