Rotary Melbourne’s Robert Fisher is lacing up again - challenging himself to walk 250 kilometres during October to help create a polio-free world. Since 1988, wild polio cases have fallen by more than 99.9%, but until transmission stops everywhere, children remain at risk. Every dollar raised through Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign is matched 2:1 by the Gates Foundation, tripling its impact. We are incredibly close - but close isn’t finished. Click read more below to support Robert’s challenge and help Rotary finish the job.
For 22 seconds, the world loses its weight. Rotary Melbourne Bulletin Editor Patricia von Matuschka, known as Tita, experienced that moment 31 times as a member of a research team flying with the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The team was investigating health phenomena that affect astronauts in space.
This week’s AFL Grand Final Lunch began with members pausing to remember our much-loved and devoted fellow Rotarian, Rodney Smith. From there, the meeting brought together football, peacebuilding and community spirit. Jessica Dudley shared an inspiring national challenge inviting students to create ideas for more peaceful schools and communities, before the winners of our 2026 Footy Tipping competition were announced. Guest speaker Rob Auld, AFL Executive General Manager Game Development, then explored the vital role of local clubs, schools and volunteers - how they are helping football grow into a game in which every Australian can feel they belong.
This week’s duties: Sandra Hills, Rosemary Nixon (Reception), Trevor Nink (Raffle), Gerald Ashman (Photographer), Rosemary Nixon (MC), Peter Dakin (Reflection).
Membership Anniversary George Giamadakis (6 – TODAY!), Shiren Anwar (2), Peter Dakin (38), Pam Hargreaves (1), Stanley Ho (2), John Shaw (30), Barbara Yerondais (16).
Happy Birthday Mimmie Watts & Carol Bond (TODAY!), Stephen Mandie.
Owen Parnaby's book Australia's First Rotary Club tells the story of Rotary Melbourne since our 1921 foundation, its influential members, and the projects that shaped Victoria. It has long been part of the new member joining pack, giving every new Rotarian a direct line to the Club's history and figures such as General Sir John Monash.
Copies have now run out. A reprint would take time and come at real cost. If you have a copy at home, please bring it along to a lunch or drop it at the office. Your donation helps ensure new members can still discover the story that connects us all.
