Thank you to all of the Rotarians who responded to my message for stories. There is a lot going on in District 9800 and happy to share your projects and achievements.
So April marks the start of the final quarter of the Rotary Year and my countdown to the end of my year as DG. And while this is the run home there is still plenty to be done and places to go.
An article from PDG Murray Verso, Rotary Club of Williamstown
On 29 April 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) validated Australia for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem, marking a significant milestone in the health of indigenous peoples. Trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer represents a public health problem in this country.
An article from Heather Watson, Rotary Club of Rochester
The Rotary Club of Rochester was proud to again present Songs at the Silos, an unforgettable evening of live music set against the striking backdrop of the Rochester GrainCorp Silos. Held on Saturday, 7 March 2026, the event brought world‑class vocal talent and community spirit together for a magical night under the stars. The project was delivered with the support of a Rotary Foundation District Grant.
An article from Anne Josefsberg, Rotary Club of Canterbury
In 2025 under the persistent direction and focus of Elizabeth Shepherd of Canterbury Rotary, it was decided that four peace poles would be constructed in Victoria Park, Kew, near the children’s playground (commonly referred to as Possum Corner). And as part of the project, it was also planned to plant a native garden to enhance the peace poles.
Since 9 January when Harcourt and surrounds was razed by bushfire, an incredible community response has ensued with Rotary Castlemaine one of many local service clubs supporting the effort to recovery. The power of the Rotary network has never been more evident and we are truly thankful to our fellow clubs.
Camberwell Rotary is the recipient of a generous $5,000 District 9800 Foundation Matching Grant that will put smiles on the dials of a number of children entering Out of Home foster care.
An article from Judy Kidman, Rotary Club of Kangaroo Flat
Nine years ago, Kangaroo Flat Rotary began a project which provides not just a good meal and good company, but also participation for many who may be isolated in the local Bendigo community. Titled Community Meals Program (COM) this important project is held at Gateway Park, 50 weeks each year.
Making a Lasting Impact Together: The Victorian Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (Vic RESCA) celebrate the paid and volunteer emergency service people who go above and beyond for Victorians—often quietly, always professionally. Club sponsorship will help keep this important Rotary-led program strong and visible, and position your club as a local champion of community safety and resilience.
Autumn in Bendigo once again provided the perfect backdrop for the vibrant Bendigo Easter Festival, where colour, culture and community came together across the four-day long weekend. As always Rotary played a significant role in bringing the festival to life.
An article from Colin Paterson, Rotary Caroline Springs
Community is where we unite to celebrate achievements and share in each other’s successes. On 19 April, the Sunday before Anzac Day, in Aintree, a suburb of Melton City, two members from Caroline Springs Rotary played an essential role in organizing a new event aimed at bringing together people from a wide array of cultures to honour our Anzacs and all who have served our country.
So April marks the start of the final quarter of the Rotary Year and my countdown to the end of my year as DG. And while this is the run home there is still plenty to be done and places to go.
The Rotary Club of Rochester was proud to again present Songs at the Silos, an unforgettable evening of live music set against the striking backdrop of the Rochester GrainCorp Silos. Held on Saturday, 7 March 2026, the event brought world‑class vocal talent and community spirit together for a magical night under the stars. The project was delivered with the support of a Rotary Foundation District Grant.
Nine years ago, Kangaroo Flat Rotary began a project which provides not just a good meal and good company, but also participation for many who may be isolated in the local Bendigo community. Titled Community Meals Program (COM) this important project is held at Gateway Park, 50 weeks each year. 
Making a Lasting Impact Together: 
Autumn in Bendigo once again provided the perfect backdrop for the vibrant Bendigo Easter Festival, where colour, culture and community came together across the four-day long weekend. As always Rotary played a significant role in bringing the festival to life. 
Heritage Court House
