Search through our archive for our historic meetings and events, including photos, videos and reviews.
At this Rotary Melbourne meeting Professor Jeremy Oats AM, a Rotary Melbourne member and highly respected and acclaimed Obstetrician was the guest speaker.
Jeremy then proceeded to deliver an insightful and evidence-based address examining the growing phenomenon of “free birthing” — where a woman chooses to give birth without the support of a registered midwife or doctor. His remarks were framed by a recent maternal death in Melbourne that has drawn renewed public attention to the risks associated with unsupervised birth.
Last Wednesday 11 February was our annual Picnic at Rotary Melbourne Peace Park, South Yarra. We had a wonderful crowd, including visitors from Japan, representatives of the City of Melbourne and the Botanical Gardens, and many members and some prospective members. After a few glasses of bubbles, the heavens opened and most retreated to the Botanical Hotel to continue a very social evening inside!
Last week’s meeting highlighted the annual Vocational Panel, showcasing how members use their professional talents to serve society. Insightful reflections from our panellists sparked strong discussion on manufacturing, creativity, and the challenges and rewards of building purpose-driven careers in Australia.
A warm evening of fellowship at Good Heavens
Around 40 Rotary Melbourne members and guests gathered at the Good Heavens Rooftop Bar on a beautifully warm, balmy Melbourne evening for an informal night of connection and conversation.
17 Rotary Melbourne members and friends volunteered at RIMERN on Wednesday 21 January 26. It was the annual RIMERN Volunteering Day. There were also the regular volunteers from other Clubs, so, many hands.
MC – PP Bob Glindemann OAM
Reflection: PP Quin Scalzo AM delivered our traditional festive reflection composed by John Mitchell (deceased) a few days before his sudden death in 2016 – included later in this bulletin, John’s words are as relevant today as they were 9 years ago.
Meeting MC: President Elect Dr Carol Bond
Reflection: Delivered by Past President Robert Fisher – the transcript is available later in this bulletin
President Philip opened the meeting welcoming members and guests.
The MC for the weekly meeting was Karen Kim and reflection on behalf of Ruth Carlos Martinez was delivered by Trevor Nink.
Last Thursday, 13 November 2025, nearly 30 Rotary Melbourne members, friends, and partners attend the special evening gathering in celebration of World Kindness Day and the 25th anniversary of the Hush Foundation.
Adrian Nelson then opened the panel discussion noting that November is Rotary Foundation Month—an appropriate time to showcase the new Growing Futures in Timor-Leste project.
Rotary Melbourne’s 5,101st meeting was a lively hybrid gathering at Sofitel No.35, featuring guest speaker Henry Dwyer, acclaimed horse trainer behind Asfoora, the first Australian-trained Royal Ascot winner. Henry shared his journey “from Ballarat to Buckingham Palace to Longchamp,” including a memorable meeting with King Charles III. The meeting also highlighted World Kindness Day, upcoming AGM nominations, the Rotary Melbourne Cup, and next week’s Growing Futures in Timor-Leste project launch.
Rotary Melbourne’s 5100th meeting featured the induction of new member Kat Sayers and a powerful address by Sonia Vignjević from Settlement Services International, who shared insights into supporting refugees and migrants, addressing barriers to skilled employment, and promoting inclusion across Australia.
In a celebration of purpose and innovation, at last week's meeting Rotary Melbourne honoured Andrew Mahar AM with the 2025 Vocational Service Award for his trailblazing work harnessing technology and enterprise to empower communities - from founding Infoxchange to greening Timor-Lesté through WithOneSeed. Guests were inspired by Andrew’s story of courage, compassion, and creativity, while President Philip kept spirits high with race-day humour, community updates, and a call to support upcoming Rotary causes. A meeting that reminded us all: service, at its best, transforms lives.
Our October Monthly Evening, hosted by Phillips Ormonde Fitzpatrick in their "Yin Foo Room" (named after our own Deb Yin Foo), featured guest speaker Steph Say from HoMie Clothing. Steph inspired us with HoMie’s mission - supporting young people affected by homelessness through employment, training, and quality streetwear. Her engaging talk highlighted HoMie’s impact, social enterprise model, and commitment to self-sustainability.
Last week's lunch focus was on homelessness and community support, with powerful insights from Jennifer Fitzgerald, CEO of St Vincent de Paul Victoria. Updates included the Melbourne Marathon, Round the Bay, impact of our contributions to the Smith Family. A strong reminder of Rotary’s impact through collaboration with community partners.
At our Annual AFL Grand Final Lunch, David Parkin OAM shared career insights in a lively discussion moderated by Philip Endersbee. Highlights included the annual footy quiz, AFL tipping winners, and other prize winners, including best dressed!
Past District 9800 Governor, Murray Verso spoke on Building Peace Through Rotary. Murray began by highlighting Rotary’s deep and enduring commitment to peacebuilding, both historically and in contemporary practice. His remarks coincided with the United Nations International Day of Peace, and Rotary’s role in promoting peace in a turbulent world.
Last week's evening conversation at the Imperial Hotel featured on Podcasting for Business featured management consultant John Downes, host of A Critical Few Actions, and entrepreneur Karen Kim, creator of Music World.
Last week’s Rotary Melbourne meeting was full of recognition and inspiration. Awards honoured Mary Barry and Quin Scalzo, tributes marked Bill Pratt’s 100th and the loss of Marie Fels and Genny Knight, and guest speaker Anna Schulze highlighted Rotary’s role in saving lives through the PNG Snakebite Project.
Rotary Melbourne’s ninth meeting of the year welcomed District Governor Peter Shepheard and guests, celebrated member milestones, and honoured past contributions. A highlight was presenting the 2025 Student Community Service Award to Charlotte Arndt for her inspiring “Play It Forward Vic” project, demonstrating youth leadership and Rotary’s impact in action.
At last week’s 5,091st Club meeting, Guest Speaker Duncan Harris, President of the Australia Africa Chamber of Commerce, delivered a powerful address on Africa as a partner in innovation and opportunity, urging Australia to engage boldly. We also recognised the inaugural Cynthia Edgell Empowerment Opportunity Gift recipients.
Despite the wintery rainy night 50 Melbourne Rotarians, Melbourne University Rotaract and guests volunteered for meal packing, on behalf of FORaMEAL, at Melbourne University last Tuesday, 12 August 25, led by President Philip. Over 9,000 meals were packed in 1.5 hours.
At a meeting rich with history and fellowship, Rotary Melbourne proudly awarded the 2025 Monash Medal to Dr Robert Webster OAM, honouring his exceptional leadership, integrity, and service. Surrounded by distinguished guests and past recipients, the occasion celebrated values exemplified by Sir John Monash and alive in today’s community leaders.
Last week’s meeting featured keynote speaker David Olsson AM, who delivered a compelling address on the evolving Australia–China relationship. The meeting also included a reflection on the UN International Day of Friendship, the induction of new member James Scuderi, and an inspiring farewell from Global Scholar Ashley Chandler ahead of her studies in Geneva.
Last week’s meeting was a standout occasion as we welcomed Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, to present the 2025 Rotary Young Achiever Awards. With moving reflections and inspiring stories from three exceptional recipients, it was an event filled with pride, purpose and promise.
