Good afternoon, fellow Rotarians and friends.

On Monday 23rd February, we marked Rotary Day — 121 years since four Illinois businessmen gathered at the Unity Building in Chicago to form what became the first Rotary Club. The idea belonged to Paul Harris, who believed that business and professional leaders should meet regularly — not only to expand their networks, but to build genuine camaraderie and friendship.

They rotated their meeting venues among their offices, and from that simple practice, the name “Rotary” was born.

Within just twelve months, the club had grown to 30 members — including, I’m pleased to note, Rotary’s very first funeral director! From the outset, Rotary reflected the full fabric of community life.

Although fellowship was the foundation, the group wanted to improve the lives of others. Many people think Rotary’s first project was the installation of public comfort stations in downtown Chicago — but that was actually the second.

The very first project was a health initiative.

A country doctor in nearby Joliet found himself unable to visit his patients because his horse had died — and he could not afford to buy another. The story was shared at a Rotary lunch meeting. A hat was passed around the table, and funds were raised on the spot to purchase a new horse.

A simple, practical act of generosity.

That passing of the hat was the beginning of something extraordinary - a tradition of service that, over time, led to the establishment of the Rotary Foundation, which today stewards more than US$2 billion in support of projects around the world.

As we reflect on those original Rotarians, we recognise that while our projects, scale and tools may have changed, our values have not: fellowship, integrity, and service above self.

For good food, good fellowship and the opportunity to serve, we give thanks.

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