Today, we remember, with respect and admiration, the extraordinary life and influence of Charter Member and Past President of Rotary Melbourne, General Sir John Monash.
This year’s Monash Medal will be presented this afternoon –on-line for the first time – to a worthy recipient, Jillian Segal AO, from whom we look forward to hearing later in the meeting.
You will hardly need to be reminded that Monash is considered one of the First World War’s outstanding commanders. From humble beginnings, he overcame prejudice to achieve so much in so many fields – engineering, the military, the
law, business and public service.
As a leader he was inspirational, a meticulous planner, innovative, empathetic, organised, engaging, unselfish, clear-thinking and able to turn vision into reality. Would that we displayed just some of these characteristics in our daily
lives.
Certainly, what we can learn from Monash in our current predicament is that, with determination, it is possible to overcome adversity.
He once said “equip yourself for life not solely for your own benefit but for the benefit of the whole community”. That’s a great fit for us as fellow Rotarians. So for the great work of Rotary, and the friendships we enjoy through it, we give thanks.
Robert Fisher.
