Good afternoon, Rotarians, guests and friends.
Before we begin, I invite you to pause and reflect on why gatherings like this matter.
World Environment Day reminds us that stewardship of the natural world is inseparable from support of our communities, our future, and ultimately one another.
The Rotary Movement has environmental sustainability as one of our major areas of focus. We know that thriving ecosystems can create thriving economic opportunities as well as supporting people’s wellbeing.
As National Reconciliation Week draws to a close, it is also an appropriate time to acknowledge that caring for Country and sustainable aquaculture and agriculture has been practised by First Nations peoples for tens of thousands of years.
We are honoured to recognise the wisdom and leadership that Indigenous Australians bring to conversations about land, sustainability and community.(if present)
Today is also an opportunity to celebrate partnership in action. Just last week, Rotary Melbourne and the xPand Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding supporting the Growing Futures initiative in Timor-Leste. This partnership will help communities restore forests, strengthen livelihoods and create long-term environmental and economic resilience. It is a practical demonstration of how local action and international cooperation can work hand in hand.
At Rotary Melbourne, we increasingly recognise that environmental sustainability is not a stand-alone issue. It is connected to health, peace, education, food security, biodiversity, economic opportunity and social cohesion, as reflected by today’s luncheon.
Through our annual Environment & Sustainability Awards, we celebrate young people whose leadership and innovation give us confidence in the future. Through initiatives such as the Rotary Peace Park and our support for The Melbourne Arboretum, we seek to create places that foster environmental stewardship, community connection and hope.
Today we will hear from Professor Graeme Samuel AC. His work has helped shape Australia’s environmental reform agenda, - a remarkable five-year journey from policy recommendations to legislative change.
Meaningful progress rarely comes quickly or easily. Yet lasting impact is achieved when people work together with purpose and persistence.
Let’s celebrate partnership, practical action and the opportunity we have to help build a more sustainable, peaceful and hopeful future.
Thank you Philip Cornish for last week's reflection on Wednesday 3 June 2026.
