From the District Governor
Posted by Paul Mee District Governor
Greetings to all Rotarians in our fabulous District.
I must say 2023 is shaping up to be an absolute screamer with many Rotary activities and events on the agenda including Presidents Elect Training Seminar (PETs) & District Conference in Feb23, District Assembly in April, RI Convention in May23.
I have been speaking to many club presidents since the beginning of the new year and it is a very busy time for most clubs.  Rotarians / clubs are working hard to prepare and run some key events in Feb, March & April. January23 was a particular busy month also for lots of Rotarians. It is just fabulous to listen to clubs / Rotarians talking proudly about their projects and fundraisers including, Annual Art Shows, Motor Shows, Charity Golf Days, Community Markets, Gala Dinners, Local Community Environment projects, Business Breakfasts etc   Adele & I were invited to attend a number of club events during January including several well-established Annual Art Shows. See photos below. 
 
District Newsletter Articles.
In the Dec22 edition we had several articles and pictures from a number of clubs in a “South Gippsland News” segment. We will feature other clusters of clubs in the coming months. But we would like to also see articles and photos from your club. We have many clubs who manage and run significant events during the year.  These successes and achievements are of particular interest to other Rotarians in the district. If your club ran an event last month that you are very proud of, please consider an article and photo in the next monthly newsletter. I will give you an example. Last month we had a club in our district that raised $8K in a particular event which they donated proudly to our wonderful Rotary facility in Traralgon – Gippsland Rotary Centenary House. We had another club who raised a significant sum at a large auction /dinner, then celebrated with a free Australia Day community breakfast event.
 
Emergency Management and recovery
Our D9820 Emergency Management Committee are presently looking at ways we can support and help Rotary Clubs in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, who were adversely impacted by significant flooding in January. We will keep you posted on this. At our January 23 District 9820 Board meeting we approved a grant of $5,000 from our Emergency Relief fund, to go to the Rotary Club of Karachi, Pakistan who are administrating a micro economic farming assistance program to assist farmers recover from significant flooding in Pakistan.
 
Australia Day 26th Jan 2023.
I hope you had the opportunity to tune into the Multi District – Rotary Australia Day event streamed live from Nossal High School Berwick hosted in Rotary District 9820. An occasion to Reflect, Respect and Celebrate the spirit of community on Australia Day. We all Call Australia Home.  Adele & I really enjoyed this event on site at Berwick and I have included a photo below with the MC and key speakers. I am proud to say that on Australia Day many of our clubs organised and ran special events to mark the occasion, including free community BBQs, Local festivals and Breakfasts, Flag raising ceremonies etc. Rotarians were well and truly, out in force on Australia Day.  Well done everyone. Did you take a photo or two for the Newsletter?
 
Club Ballot at District Conference 25th Feb
 Earlier this month District Secretary Gael, sent out a notice to all clubs about a club ballot at District Conference to select our D9820 Representative, to sit on a selection panel for our next Rotary Zone 8 Director. Each club attending conference will need to select a club voting representative. Would all Club Presidents please advise Gael the name of your club Rep asap if you have not yet done this.  gael.traa@rotary9820.org.au
 
Tony’s Trek
Many clubs / Rotarians in our district will be collaborating with their local Emergency Services volunteers to participate in events and welcomes during Tony’s Trek. This is a walk by Tony Pearce the CEO of the Emergency Services Foundation to raise awareness for the health and wellbeing of our emergency services personnel.  Tony and his team will be travelling through our district from 10th March to 9th April. For those clubs who are participating, I encourage club members to please get involved. This will increase our connection with these local volunteers, some of whom are potential Rotarians.  
 
D9815 – future District Governor 2025/26. In January, D9810 DG Ken Miller & myself issued a joint notice to all Rotarians in both districts 9820 & 9810 calling for Nominations for District Governor Nominee Designate who will become the DG for our merged districts in 2025-26. Any enquiries please contact DG Paul Mee  governor@rotary9820.org.au   
 
Australian Rotary Health and The Rotary Foundation
In the coming few months many club boards will be making decisions on annual donations to their chosen entities. Could I ask you to please consider Australian Rotary Health &/ or the Rotary Foundation as our charities of choice.
 
District 9820 Conference Feb 24th to 26th 2023 Cape Schanck.  Registrations will close on Fri 10th Feb.
In the past week, I read a notice sent to club members by a club secretary which I thought you would like to read.
It goes like this -
With only weeks to go, it's not too late to register for our District Conference! Have you ever been to one?  How long since you have enjoyed the friendship and fun of a whole bunch of Rotarians and their partners together, face to face?  Old friends, new friends, fun, frivolity, and some awesome speakers to inspire you in all aspects of your life - leadership (Kate Roffey, CEO Melbourne Football Club) Environment and Sustainability (Julia Kay, 2021 Young Victorian of the Year), Health, (Love Your Sister ambassador, Samuel Johnson), public speaking skills, (Warren Tate presentation and speaker coach), breakfast with Victorian of the year, Kevin Sheedy and so much more. 
The options for socialising are abundant. A winery tour (including a ride on the Eagle chairlift) golf, a fun beach party themed dinner and time over lunch and session breaks provide so much opportunity to share friendship, have a laugh and meet new people with commonality and shared purpose. A chance to network, to reinvigorate your Rotary "spunk", to sample Rotary outside the club environment.  All on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula at the RACV Cape Schanck Resort
 Don't have time to come from 24 -26 February? Then take a day package and register just for Saturday!
 For more info and to register, just click on this link:
Looking forward to you joining us at the Conference.
 
 
Dates for your diary –
Sat 18th – Sun 19th Feb 23 – President’s Elect Training (PETS 2) – Century Inn, Traralgon.
Fri 24th – Sun 26th Feb 23 – D9820 Annual Conference, RACV Cape Schanck, Mornington Peninsula,
Sat 22nd April 23   9.00am – District Assembly for all Rotarians in D9820. Nossal High School, Berwick.
Sat 29th April – District Foundation Dinner and Event (D9820 +9810)- to support The Rotary foundation. Venue TBA.
13th – 23rd May (approx.) – D9820 clubs, will be hosting a Rotary Friendship Exchange from District 7120 Washington State USA see Notice later in this Newsletter.
25th -26th May – Rotary Malaria Congress, Crown Casino, Melbourne.
27th – 31st May 23 – Rotary International Convention Melb23- Rod Laver Arena and Melbourne Convention Centre
Please join me to “Imagine Rotary” and have a fabulous month.
Hope you enjoy the photos below which cover some fabulous club activities, attended by Adele & I, in January 23.
 
 
  
 
A night with Melba Opera trust at Sorrento Art Show gala opening 
                                                                              
 
RC Sorrento Art Show - Team
 
 
RC Mornington -Art Show Chair Richard & President Brian
 
 
District Secretary Gael and RC Mt Martha PP Carol
 
 
RC Rosebud Rye – running the monthly Rye Foreshore Market
 
 
 Live Stream -Rotary Australia Day Event celebration  
 
President Mardi Shepard inducting two new members to RC Langwarrin
 
 
                                                                                                   
Frankston High School Interact
Posted by Peter Cracknell RC Frankston Sunrise
 
 
Frankston High School Interact Club – sponsored by Frankston Sunrise Rotary Club
 
As iconic Australia singer/songwriter Paul Kelly once wrote, “from little things big things grow” which aptly describes Frankston Sunrise’s Interact Club at Frankston High School (FHS).
 
What started with a ‘soft launch’ in the second half of 2020 in joint sponsorship with Peninsula Rotaract, now proudly boasts a membership of up to 50 students spread across all year levels. With the support of the school’s principal and the invaluable guidance and support of their truly remarkable Interact Coordinator Jon Christie, FHS Interact Club has exceeded all expectations (and then some).
 
Under the watchful and encouraging eye of Mr Christie, the club hit the ground running and has achieved some amazing goals since it began two years ago including:
  1. Donation drives – supporting Frankston Toy Library and the Salvation Army with new toys, plus providing non-perishable food and personal care items to two grassroots organisations that support at risk groups within the local community.
  2. Butterfly Project – art installation at Frankston Hospital’s Children’s Ward plus the creation of 4000 handmade origami butterflies for art installations around the school promoting messages of body positivity and inclusion.
  3. Kindness cards – design, creation and sale of cards with life-affirming messages with proceeds supporting Hold My Hand, a charity focussed on early mental health interventions.
  4. Active engagement and support of Rotary Club activities such as our Annual 8-hour Treadmill Challenge that raised $28,000 for charity Very Special Kids.
 
Late last year, a full day planning session was held so they could set their agenda for 2023...as a Club, we can’t wait to see how the year unfolds as we support and mentor them as they work to achieve their goals (while learning some life lessons along the way). They plan to kick off 2023 with a major initiative - to raise $5,000 towards the purchase of a SkyHydrant which would supply safe drinking water for a community in Bhutan.
 
Our Interact students are a force to be reckoned with and their genuine desire to do good, both within their own community and to those overseas, inspires us with its overwhelming optimism, energy and drive...to say we are very proud of them is an understatement.
 
Rotary takes action on flood relief
 
Aussies Beating Mossies’
ROTARY TAKES ACTION ON FLOOD RELIEF
 
There is now a major mosquito danger within flood impacted communities. In order to provide some relief to affected communities, RAWCS has acquired thousands of mosquito repellent candles.
RAWCS has taken the initiative and distributed over 16,000 candles in Shepparton (VIC), Lismore (NSW), Parkes (NSW) and Gympie (QLD) with great effect. There are plans to distribute up to a further 25,000 candles in coming weeks.
Rotary Australia World Community Service Ltd (RAWCS) is also working to distribute brand new bed linen into the flood areas, which has been secured from a correction facility in the Northern Territory that was never opened.
And we are also supporting locals with Rotary volunteers who are assisting Government with distribution of donated goods, requests for support and information distribution.
Our National and State based fund raising continues to provide the necessary support for victims as the damage is determined and real needs identified.
Funds donated to the appeals are being used in the following ways:
  • Backing the projects and immediate assistance programs undertaken by local Rotarians in the flood zones.
  • Funding cash vouchers to help with the immediate needs of flood victims as well as supporting local businesses when the vouchers are spent in the impacted towns.
  • Assisting with temporary housing initiatives – already 16 housing pods have been supplied with a further 12 on their way.
  • Provision of new clothing and new bed linen.
  • Distribution of free mosquito repellent candles to help protect families from diseases carried by swarming mosquitos in the flood aftermath. The candles repel mosquitos for sixty hours, are odorless and normally retail for $16 each.
Donations can be made to our national fund, or can be directed to a number of regional appeals:
 
National Flood Appeal                   https://lnkd.in/g2PAMBgc

Victoria & border Areas                https://lnkd.in/gWj863GV

 
 
Youth Exchange 
Posted by Barry Rogers YEP Chair 2022-23
Youth Exchange Program- District 9820
Recently we asked all members and clubs for their thoughts regarding the resumption of Youth Exchange for our district. Thank you to everyone who completed the online questionnaire.
There are a reasonable number of clubs that are interested in resuming Youth Exchange and several have also indicated they cannot support the program. We think there is enough support across the district to begin planning for a return to Youth Exchange. Our next step is to recruit committee members.
As you know we and District 9810 will be merging in the relatively near future; and some Youth Programs (MUNA, RYLA) are already working together. We are liaising with District 9810 YEP and anticipate the formation of a joint Youth Exchange committee.
So, if you want to be a part of the new Youth Exchange committee, please feel free to contact Barry Rogers – barry.rogers@rotary9820.org.au
For those clubs and individuals who showed an interest in hosting or sponsoring Youth Exchange students - we will come back to these once a committee is set up. Thanks again for your support.

 
Vale Gerald Treasure
Posted by Jane Moore Secretary RC Berwick
Vale -Gerald Treasure 1932-2023 (RC Berwick)
It is with sadness and respect I inform you of Past President Gerald Treasure's death on 19th January 2023.
Gerald was held with high esteem, respect and affection by the Rotary Club of Berwick members over his 28 year membership. Gerald was an active, engaged member who wove his personal, business and community life into Rotary, tapping into his resources and network to help Rotary in any way he could. 
He lead the club as president in 1996-97 and worked consistently to mentor and support the club in the decades following.
Gerald has been absent from attending over the past 4 years due to ill health,but maintained his Rotary membership and interest in the Club via Funno and others.
A long life well lived.
Rotary Friendship exchange
Posted by Mark Humphries PDG and Linda Humphries DGE
 
Rotary Friendship Exchange 2023
 
International Convention is just around the corner. As a lead-up, we are hosting a Rotary Friendship Exchange with District 7120, upper New York State. They would like to spend some time in our District meeting with people, clubs and be involved with a community project along the way.
 
How does it work?
They will arrive in our District about two weeks before Convention and spend about four nights in each location. We will host them in our homes, show them around our District, and some of the great sites, take them to the occasional meeting, do a community project, and then move them to the next part of the District. Rotary Friendship Exchange works both ways, and after we host District 7120, they will invite us to their District in return. (some images below from District 7120)
 
We are looking at starting them in East Gippsland, they hosted Linda and I as part of the International Assembly Governors hosting program. East Gippsland was in the clutches of the fires. I am often asked how things are progressing and they would like to see the impact first hand and doing a project in the community. Move to Central and South Gippsland, again see the sites, be involved with a project at Centenary house. Last stop, Peninsula, Frankston, Melbourne South East, has plenty to do, golf, wineries, scenery, a project on the Bay Trail, and a farewell dinner, everyone welcome.
 
What are we looking for: 
  • People to host. There will be 6 – 8 couples coming. Therefore 6 – 8 people in each area, about 4 nights.
  • Ability to drive people to sites and activities.
  • Clusters to help organize the community project
  • Assist with transportation from Melbourne to East Gippsland
Pearl Finlay-James in East Gippsland, Janne Speirs in Central/South Gippsland and Linda Morris on the Peninsula will coordinate hosting and activities in their areas. District 7120 has been doing friendship exchanges for a long time. Check out Friendship Exchange History | District 7120 (rotary7120.org) to learn more.
 
Please let me know how you can be involved with this great opportunity.
         
Mark & Linda
 
24th to 26th February 2023
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District Events
District PETS Presidents Elect and Partners 2023
Feb 18, 2023 9:00 AM – Feb 19, 2023 10:00 PM
District Conference 2023 RACV Cape Schanck Resort
Feb 24, 2023 9:30 AM – Feb 26, 2023 5:00 PM
Conference Breakfast with Kevin Sheedy
Feb 26, 2023 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Millions of people all over the world are currently displaced by armed conflict or persecution. In fact, 90% of casualties in armed conflicts are civilians, half of which are children. Through service projects and Rotary programs, the Rotary family is committed to pursuing projects that address the structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.....
 

PEACEBUILDING AND CONFLICT PREVENTION

Rotary supports training, education, and practices related to peacebuilding and conflict prevention through initiatives that help transform1 conflict in our communities and around the world.

Area of Focus Statement of Purpose and Goals

The Rotary Foundation (TRF) enables Rotarians to advance peacebuilding and prevent conflict by:

1. Enhancing the capacity of individuals and communities to transform conflict and build peace

2. Training community members in peace education, peace leadership, and conflict prevention and resolution

3. Providing services that help integrate vulnerable populations into society

4. Improving dialogue and community relations to determine how best to manage natural resources

5. Funding graduate scholarships for career-minded professionals related to peacebuilding and conflict prevention 

Add your voice to the conversation by using the blog’s commenting feature and share how your club peace and conflict resolution initiatives on Rotary Showcase

Zoom meetings from around the world
Click HERE
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Rotary Foundation approves targeted funds for Pakistan and Ukraine

Rotary Foundation approves targeted funds for Pakistan and

Life during wartime: a frontline report

As the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approached, a firsthand account shows how Rotary members are responding to this humanitarian crisis.

Rotary projects around the globe - February 2023

Learn how Rotary clubs are taking action in the United States, Bolivia, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Malaysia.

Remembering Jewish Salonica

Albert Bourla's story of how his parents survived the Holocaust provides a vivid picture of the Jewish experience in Thessaloniki. His story has important lessons today for all of us in our very troubled world.

RAM Congress 25-26 May 2023
Posted by Tony Spring PDG
 
Before the Covid-19 pandemic a child died of Malaria every 2 minutes. Now it is EVERY MINUTE. There has never been more urgency to Finish the Fight and eliminate Malaria in the Western Pacific Rim. PDG Dai Mason (D9600), PDG Bruce Anderson (D9780) and PDG Tony Spring (D9820) are organising a Two Day Congress on Finish-The-Fight Against Malaria. This is the two days immediately prior to the RI Melbourne Convention next year.
 
Those invited to speak include: 
  • Sir Peter Cosgrove (Past Governor General of Australia)
  • Lady Roslyn Morauta (Vice-Chair of the Global Fund)
  • Professor Michael Good (Institute for Glycomics – Griffith University - Gold Coast Campus)
  • Philip Welkhoff (Director of Malaria - Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation)
  • Adriana Lanting (Chair of Malaria Partners International)
Registration for the congress can be accessed at https://www.ramcongressmelbourne2023.org/

 
2020-2023 Council Cycle ends June 30
Posted by Tim Moore PDG
With the conclusion of the 2022 Council on Resolutions (COR), I am pleased to provide you with the Report of Action.  In this report, you will find:
•    A letter from Council Services
•    Resolutions that were adopted
•    Vote tallies for the adopted items

Voting results for all 2022 resolutions can be found on My Rotary. 

Please note that the deadline for submitting resolutions to the 2023 COR is 30 June 2023. A link to the submission form, plus helpful resources, can be found on the Councils page of My Rotary.
 
If you have any questions about the report or the COR, please let me know.
Many thanks
Rotary International Convention Melbourne 27-31 May 2023
Posted by Tony Spring, PDG
 
 
 
 
This is a once in 30-year event that should not be missed. If you haven’t been to a Rotary International Convention, then this is your opportunity to hear and see from Rotarians from all corners of the world. If you have enjoyed Rotary International Conventions previously, then you know how fantastic they are, and Melbourne will be fantastic! It is here on your doorstep with no international travel expenses. It will never be more affordable! 
  • Book now to get the best registration rate and importantly to secure your place at Signature and Hospitality events, which have capacity limits to ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience.
  • Imagine the opportunity to meet and mix with 25,000 people of action from around the globe.
  • Imagine the possibilities flowing from inspirational speakers, break-outs with Rotary leaders and from opportunities at the House of Friendship
  • Imagine the opportunity to attend and/or volunteer to be an Ambassador for Australasia and the Pacific Islands.
Volunteers are still required to assist in the running of the Convention. 
  •  A vital part of the Convention is to have an engaged and friendly volunteer workforce. We as Rotarians volunteer our time, energy and skills all the time. It is part of our DNA and makes us who we are - we are a people organisation.
  • It is an opportunity to witness Rotary at an International level and by volunteering, to be part of its success.
  • It is an opportunity to volunteer and be an Ambassador for Rotary and our country.
  • Giving up four hours for a single shift is not a big ask - the more volunteers we have, the greater the load is shared.
This Convention is an opportunity to see what Rotarians around the world do, speak to people from different countries about common projects or new projects, and hear world class speakers from within Rotary and from leaders in their fields outside Rotary.
 
Register now for the best prices. Don’t leave it to the last minute as the registration fees increase significantly as the Convention gets closer.
 
I look forward to seeing you at the Melbourne Convention in May 2023
 
Tony Spring