Master of Ceremonies began the meeting paying respect to the traditional owners of the land on which Rotary Melbourne meets. Past President Adrian Nelson delivered the weekly reflection, which can be read later in this Bulletin. Past President, and 2024-25 Vice President Mary Barry, proposed the loyal toast, and adjourned for the meal service break.
Following the meal service break Mary Barry returned to the podium to welcome members, visitors and guests to the 5082nd meeting, our 46th meeting in the Club’s 104th year. Full details at the Bulletin’s conclusion.
District Governor Michael Lapina made an appearance prior to heading to Calgary to perform in the closing ceremony at the Rotary International Convention in Calgary, Canada. Michael expressed his gratitude for supporting him during his year as District Governor.
Mary then reminded all present of the annual Presidential changeover event to be held in the Fitzroy Dining Room at the Sofitel next week (Wednesday 25 June 2025) in which we will witness 2024-25 President Catherine Baxter handing over to 2025-26 President Philip Cornish. Members are encouraged to bring their partner and friends to this highlight event in Rotary Melbourne’s calendar.
Mary then alerted the meeting to the club’s next arts event which will be a visit to the Winter Masters exhibition at the NGV in St Kilda Road on the evening of Friday 1 August 2025.
After drawing the weekly raffle which was won by serial winner, Deb Yin Foo, Mary invited Vice President Humanitarian Service, Reg Smith, to the podium to report on the club’s humanitarian service efforts in 2024-25.
Reg then delivered a comprehensive update showcasing the Club’s broad range of impactful humanitarian initiatives, coordinated through ten committees under four Board directorates. Members were encouraged to join a committee to explore diverse opportunities for service.
Highlights included the Community Health and Ageing committee’s support for the Bionics Institute’s research on music and memory loss, and a proposed World Health Organization partnership on pandemic preparedness. The Community Welfare committee continues to grow “Make a House a Home,” furnishing new social housing, and expands Rotary Safe Families internationally.
The Welfare of the Young committee supported a national peace-building workshop for South Sudanese leaders, mentoring programs via Afri Auscare, and youth sports sponsorship. A STEM Sisters initiative is also underway, promoting digital access for young children.
Indigenous Programs advanced the Footy Nuts nutrition project and water trailers for trachoma prevention. The Arts Committee launched the Rotary Melbourne Music Scholarship and is developing a city-wide photography competition.
In speaking of the Papua New Guinea snake bite project, Reg briefly paid tribute to Tony Battaini who will be the recipient of the 2025 Axle Award for championing this life saving project. Tony was unable to attend this meeting and Tony’s presentation will occur in a meeting showcasing the Snakebite project, alongside the presentation from anti venom supplier CSL’s Director of Government Relations and External Affairs, Anna Schulze, on Wednesday 30 July 2025.
The new charitable entity Rotary Melbourne (PBI) Ltd—with DGR status—will launch in 2025/26 to support projects relieving suffering and disadvantage in Australia and overseas, offering fresh pathways for volunteerism and donations. The full transcript of Reg’s address and the Project Update chart can be read here & here.
Mary Barry delivered a comprehensive Club Service report covering five key areas: membership, governance, sustainability, the speaker program, and communication. Membership saw notable growth under the leadership of Deb Yin Foo, rising from 162 to 178 members, with 24 new members inducted and more expected before year-end. This growth was driven by strong personal engagement, revitalised processes, and an effective mentoring program.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Deb Yin Foo was honoured with a Paul Harris Fellowship, celebrating her leadership, commitment to science, and dedication to member engagement. See article under 'Member News'.
Governance updates included the establishment of Rotary Melbourne (PBI) Ltd, a new charitable entity, and updates to OH&S and the Club’s risk register. The newly formed Project Review Committee, co-chaired by the Vice Presidents, is helping members transform bold ideas into viable, strategic initiatives.
Under the Environmental Sustainability Committee, the Club celebrated World Environment Day, supported reforestation in Timor Leste, and strengthened ties with ESRAG. A new partnership with the Melbourne Arboretum is also underway. Read a transcript of Mary’s address Here.
The Speaker Program, curated by Steven Rando, featured engaging and diverse speakers on topics ranging from medical innovation and governance to green energy and urban design—designed to both inform and inspire.
Finally, Mary thanked Sue Smith for producing the weekly Bulletin and Adrian Nelson for elevating the Club’s social media presence. She closed by thanking Executive Secretary Joe Mavros for her vital behind-the-scenes work and handed back to Reg Smith, who acknowledged contributors and reminded members of the upcoming Presidential Changeover on Wednesday 25 June. The video recording of the full meeting can be viewed here.
