District Governor's Message
As we come to the time of year when festivities abound, there have been several highly successful events over the past week in our District including the International Men’s Day Virtual ‘Happy As Larry’ Lunch jointly hosted by Rotary Brighton North and Rotary Melbourne. Well-known comedian and actor Shane Jacobson entertained the audience, along with Rotary District 9810’s “Toilet Warrior”, Rotarian Mark Balla. My congratulations go to both clubs and in particular, Presidents Peter Killey and Marion MacLeod on not only delivering a fantastic event, but also the very important messages on men’s health.
Also held this past week was Rotary Central Melbourne’s 28th Annual Paul Harris Breakfast, which was combined with District 9800’s Business Leaders Breakfast at which Ian Wishart, CEO, Fred Hollows Foundation, spoke on eliminating Trachoma. This event was very well attended and highlighted the powerful results that Rotarians are able to achieve when working together to eliminate disease. We are so capable of making a difference!
District 9800’s Annual General Meeting was held last Monday with Past District Governor Grant Hocking providing a wonderful report on his year’s activities despite COVID-19. The meeting went extremely well with a strong attendance and I congratulate PDG Grant on his amazing year.
Last week Sunday we had another fantastic and uplifting Rotary in Harmony event focused on Celtic music. Incredibly talented musicians, including our own Sue Foley with her band Bhan Tre, along with Damien Leith and Maria Forde, provided wonderful entertainment. Our final Rotary in Harmony event for the year will be held on Sunday 13th December and will feature Christmas carols.
On Saturday, 5th December we have our final Morning Tea with the DG for 2020. We have some great surprises lined up, so do book.
RI President Holger Knaack has this week advised of an important update regarding Rotary Youth Exchange. At the November Board meeting the difficult, but necessary decision was taken to suspend both short-term and long-term Rotary Youth Exchange through 30 June 2021. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Board continues to significantly limit or suspend all Rotary activities that require travel or in-person meetings. Whilst disappointing, many districts around the world are creating virtual exchanges. If you would like to know more about creating your own, or participating in, virtual exchanges, you can join a webinar on 22 January 2021.
Have a great week everyone—Rotary is a powerhouse for making a difference!
Rotary District 9800 Governor Philip Archer