Rotary Melbourne's 7th Meeting of this Rotary year and our 5,044th all time Club meeting, in its 104th year characterised the broad reach and perspectives that Rotary Melbourne explores at its weekly meetings.
MC Karen Kim opened the meeting in the usual way and acknowledged the traditional owners of the land on which we meet. Cheryl Lacey presented the weekly reflection (published later in this Bulletin) and President Elect Philip Cornish, covering President Catherine’s absence this week presented the loyal toast.
On resumption after the meal service, President Elect Philip expressed great pleasure in welcoming members, visitors and guest to Rotary Melbourne’s 7th Meeting of the current Rotary year and our all-time 5044th Club meeting. Guests are listed later in this Bulletin.
After bringing Robert Fisher and Garry Fowler to the podium to express happy birthday to both. Robert then gave a brief update on his recent visit to South Africa which included displayed banners received in exchange with local clubs.
President Elect Phil then congratulated Kevin Sheehan for reaching the 38th Anniversary of Membership of club membership. Phil noted Kevin's dedicated contribution, particularly Relating to Youth Exchange Program, his service as President and his exemplary service in navigate to the introduction of online meetings during the COVID pandemic which flaired during his Presidential year. Phil noted: “He kept us engaged and relevant. We thank him for his service.”
President Phil then reminded members of the forthcoming AGM fixed for Wednesday 20 November 2024, and the call for nominations for 3 member elected candidates for the Nominating Committee. He stressed that “… Nominations may be made in any number by any member in writing with each nomination being signed by the nominator and another member.
No Past-President is eligible for nomination by the members for any of the (3) vacancies. No member who has twice accepted membership on the Nominating Committee is eligible for service in any subsequent year except as a Presidential Officer.” Nominations close at 2.05 p.m. on Wednesday 21st August 2024. Nomination forms and any questions can be directed to the Honorary Secretary John Saunders.
President Elect Philip then passed the meeting to Chairman of the Day, PP Quin Scalzo, who came to the podium to introduce our guest speaker.
Guest speaker, Paul Guerra, Chief Executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) was introduced by Past President Quinn Scalzo. Paul began by expressing his well-wishes to President Catherine (who was absent on this occasion) and gratitude to President-elect Phil Cornish and Quin Scalzo for his introduction.
Paul leads the largest and most influential not-for-profit business organization in Victoria, which dates back to 1851 and now supports over 85,000 businesses and individuals. It provides diverse programs, information, and support to ensure a robust business community.
VCCI recently merged with the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce and the Committee for Melbourne to strengthen advocacy and influence within Greater Melbourne.
Paul’s address highlighted the significant economic challenges facing Victoria, including high energy costs, skill shortages, high interest rates, and the need for a clear plan to transition to net zero. He stressed the need for a strong plan for energy supply that doesn't penalize businesses or consumers.
Paul stressed the importance of collaboration between businesses, government, and communities and noted the need for clean, accessible, and safe city environments to attract business and tourists. At the same time, he emphasised the importance of developing high potential locations such as Docklands and Fisherman's Bend for development and business opportunities. He stressed the importance of planned iconic attractions for Melbourne to rival global landmarks and the importance of maintaining Melbourne's status as events capital.
Upcoming events like the World Chamber Congress are vital for global engagement and business and will brings prominence to Melbourne.
Speaking about Victoria’s economic outlook and future strategies, Paul referred to VCCI’s advocacy of government intervention to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), recognizing their vital role in the economy. They are also calling for maintaining infrastructure investment to match migration and prevent a cluttered state; and advising against additional taxes on businesses preferring growth-stimulating policies.
From an international perspective Victoria faces challenges similar to those faced by Europe and can learn from international policies and practices. Finally, Paul argued that re-engagement with the global market opportunities needs strong and continuing support.
In closing Paul emphasized the need for relationships and collaborative efforts to drive Victoria's economic recovery; stressed the importance of innovation, resilience, and prosperity as key drivers of Melbourne and Victoria’s future growth and encouraged active participation in forming and supporting State government’s economic strategies.
Meeting Chair Quin Scalzo thanked Paul for his encouraging presentation and presented the customary Rotary Melbourne socks manufactured in Melbourne with 200% Australian content by Phil Endersbee’s Wilderness Wear.
Paul Guerra’s addressed can be viewed by following this link.
The recording of full meeting proceedings can be viewed by clicking here
