Rotary Melbourne Reflection – Changeover: 24 June 2020 - PP Robert Fisher
As we reflect on the Rotary year that is coming to an end, we think of the crises in which we have unexpectedly found ourselves: the devastating fires in our State and elsewhere, then the onslaught of the global pandemic. Let’s pause to consider our response as Rotarians: we lent our support to the many efforts to assist bushfire affected communities, and we reached out to other members, colleagues, friends and to the disadvantaged to ease the impacts of isolation.
Rotary Melbourne has had to change to remain relevant, and we applaud President Kevin and his leadership team for immediately stepping up to the plate on so many fronts. Who would have believed we of all people would find real benefits in cloud-based video conferencing? While we yearn for coming together again in person, we haven’t missed a beat, and many of our projects have moved along undeterred. Such is the power and determination of Rotary.
This evening we welcome Marion Macleod as our President for the Centenary Year, and wish her every success in the exciting times that lie ahead. We have been working with R100 Champion Hugh Bucknall over the past five years to mark this occasion by creating promotional opportunities for Rotary, by recognising the wonderful work of thousands of dedicated Rotarians Down Under in the past century, and by inspiring the next generation of Rotarians with the development of a number of sustainable legacy projects.
In this coming year we should recommit ourselves to “service above self” and – regardless of the circumstances – to celebrate the Centenary by helping in some significant way to make this a better world.
For the great work of Rotary, and the friendships we enjoy through it, we give thanks.
Robert Fisher.
