The Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) recognition is one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow upon a member or friend of Rotary. It is named after Rotary's founder, Paul Harris, and celebrates those who have made outstanding contributions to the ideals and work of Rotary — whether through generous financial support or through exceptional service.
Receiving a PHF signifies the club’s deep appreciation for the recipient's dedication, integrity, and commitment to “Service Above Self.” It is both a thank you and a public acknowledgment of the difference they have made — within the club, the community, and often, well beyond.
Paul Harris Fellow Sapphire
Presented to Barbara Yerondais
5 November 2025
Citation
Barbara Yerondais has made a highly significant contribution to the Rotary Club of Melbourne through her dedicated service as Honorary Architect, Committee Chair, and Board Member.
Inducted into the Club on 6 October 2010 under the Classification Architecture – General, Barbara brought to Rotary a wealth of professional expertise. A graduate of RMIT with a Bachelor of Architecture, she later lectured there before establishing her own practice, BY Projects Architecture, recognised for its high-quality commercial and residential work.
In 2016, her outstanding contribution was acknowledged by then President Peter Rogers for transforming the Club’s newly purchased office into a functional and welcoming space, achieved on a modest budget and with the support of volunteers.
Elected to the Board in 2014 as Director of Youth Services, Barbara has demonstrated enduring commitment and leadership. She has served actively on numerous committees, including Membership Review, Fundraising, and Arts, and has been instrumental in strengthening fellowship within the Club.
Each year Barbara organises the popular NGV Winter Masterpieces visit and the highly regarded Architectural Walk, both of which have become highlights of the Club’s calendar.
As Chair of the Environment Award, Barbara has led its renewed focus on recognising the environmental initiatives of high school students. She also developed the Club’s legacy schools database, an invaluable resource supporting ongoing communication with Melbourne schools.
In recognition of her outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to Rotary and the community, the Rotary Club of Melbourne proudly names Barbara Yerondais a Paul Harris Fellow with Sapphire.
