Last Week's Angus Mitchell Oration event will go down as one of the epic Rotary Melbourne Events in its 103 year history.  Nearly 300 members and guests witnessed a brilliant Oration by former Prime Minister Hon John Howard, OM, AC on his assessment of Global leadership.  Mr Howard shared his passion for cricket, and in a highly diplomatic but accessible way shared his concerns about the global geopolitical balance and threats to democratic culture due to the increasing unwillingness of leaders defeated in democratic elections to accept the collective will of their electorate.

As is customary, we will publish a transcript of Mr Howard’s oration as soon as it is available, and hopefully we will be able to publish a video recording as well.

Other highlights were the opening reflection by Master of Ceremonies, Past President Kevin Sheehan, the announcements by President Chris Sotiropoulos, highlighting:

• The achievement of centenary Clubs Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland and Wellington in securing full funding the the Rotary Give Every Child a Future vaccination program in 9 Pacific Islands, which included Rotary Melbourne funding in excess of AUD$600,000, and
• The celebration of the Club’s 5,000th meeting over its 103 year history, of 5,000 Acts of Kindness (see separate bulletin article). The first 300 Acts of Kindness were embodied in the availability of a seedling to plant, for each guest to plant, for environmental benefit.

Both initiatives are compelling illustrations of the Clubs commitment to bold, ambitious community services programs.

As this Oration was originally planned for the 2022-23 Rotary Year, Past President Adrian Nelson stepped up to the podium with aplomb to Chair and introduce Mr Howard.

President Chris expressed deep appreciation to all involved for rolling our sleeves up to support this event, by booking tables, helping with the meeting set up and conduct, and for being there.