As many of you are now aware, the Rotary Foundation Trustees and Rotary International Board of Directors have both unanimously approved adding a seventh area of focus—supporting the environment. Areas of focus are categories of service activities supported by global grants, and this seventh area will join peace building and conflict prevention; disease prevention and treatment; water, sanitation, and hygiene; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; and, community economic development.

Whilst grant applications for the seventh area of focus won’t be accepted until 1st July 2021, now is an ideal time to build our knowledge and plan projects for this focus area…even small projects that can be done in our backyards, local parks or community walkways.  Already, great work has commenced through our newly formed Environmental Sustainability Committee, headed up by Fabienne Nichola and John McCaskill, and is the subject of our feature article this week.   

Being Membership Month, we have some unique opportunities to introduce others to Rotary. Supporting the environment is one, as highlighted in the feature article, and so too is reaching out to all those you know who may need support through these difficult times and would welcome connecting with others. We also have an opportunity for anyone you know in business to join our Zoom Business Leaders Breakfast scheduled for Tuesday 25th August. https://rotarydistrict9800.org.au/event/series-business-leaders-breakfast-1/

Another exciting event this month is the Rotary Club of Camberwell’s major community and fund raising event, the highly regarded Camberwell Art Show, which is going digital for the first time in its 55-year history.  Make sure you check out the monthly exhibitions via the website: http://www.camberwellartshow.org.au

Whilst Victoria is officially in a state of disaster, let’s all remain calm, and be grateful for our ability as Rotarians to support one another and continue doing good in the world.

Rotary District 9800 Governor Philip Archer

PS. Please note that newly released MyRotary is currently under maintenance and is expected to be back online on Wednesday 12 August with an all new look and accessibility on mobile devices.