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District 9710

TThhee DDiissttrriicctt CChhrroonniiccllee District Governor Rob Woolley (Beth)

www.rotaryd9710.org.au

Planning Month May 2012

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Governor Rob Woolley

Governor Elect Phil Armstrong

Governor Nominee Maureen Manning

District Secretary Monica Garrett

District Treasurer Gail Kinsella

Assistant Governors Roger Bayley

Mark Cuthbertson Monica Garrett Tony Glenn

Stephen Goodchild Barbara Griffiths

Margaret Isselmann Robert MacCulloch

David Mylan Chris Neale

Anton Pemmer Genevieve Power Rowley Tompsett

Inside this month …

• Around the Clubs

• Youth Exchange 2012

• Kirsty Sword Gusmao speaks

• Interactors go surfing

• Book for Babies

• Leadership tips for incoming officers • Why Youth Exchange still matters

• Public awareness of Rotary

• Help is needed to say goodbye polio • Australian Year of the Farmer

• Rotary Indigenous Scholar speaks

• GSE Team 2012–2013

What is Rotary?

Rotary is a worldwide network of inspired individuals who transform their

passions into relevant social causes to improve lives in communities.

FFrroomm tthhee GGoovveerrnnoorr’’ss ddeesskk …… Breaking news—D9710 is to start its first E‐Club. You may ask what is a Rotary E‐Club and what does it do differently to a Rotary Club?

In 2004, Rotary International agreed to run a pilot program that allowed Rotarians to meet electronically on‐line using web based technology. The first E‐Club to be formed was E‐Club One in the USA; Chris Jocelyn from the Rotary Club of Sydney was instrumental in setting up protocols and procedures for the pilot program. There are now 50 E‐Clubs worldwide, including one based in Sydney with members in many overseas countries.

What is the difference between a Rotary Club and an E‐Club

Rotary E‐Clubs follow the same rules and policies as Rotary Clubs. The key difference is that E‐Club members conduct their weekly meetings on the Club website rather than physically attending a meeting.

As all Rotary Clubs do, Rotary E‐Clubs meet weekly, perform service projects in local and international communities, support the Foundation and enjoy fellowship among members. The keys to a Rotary Clubs’ effectiveness are the same for both types of Clubs: service‐minded members, opportunities for fellowship and strong leadership.

How do E‐Clubs work?

E‐Club meetings are hosted on a unique website. E‐Clubs decide when they will meet and for how long. Information is posted in the E‐Club Room—a secure website—where members can read the weekly newsletter, look at agenda items for the meeting, read reports from Club Directors, look at current projects and take part in on‐line discussion groups.

While all E‐Clubs meet on‐line to conduct their meetings, Clubs can also agree to meet physically on a regular basis; for example, monthly or every other month in whatever format they decide to enjoy fellowship and discuss projects. This type of Club is called an E‐Hybrid Club, currently the most popular form of a Rotary E‐Club.

In June 2011, the Rotary Club of Fyshwick returned its Charter to the District as it could not fill the essential positions in the Club. A group of enthusiastic Rotarians, lead by PP Ross Ellis, have worked hard to try and re‐establish a Rotary Club in Fyshwick to meet the needs of the business community. After a number of interest meetings and many hours of visiting businesses, it is obvious that a conventional Rotary Club will not be possible in Fyshwick. The people who attended a number of interest meetings were interested in Rotary but could not commit the time to attend a weekly meeting—but were interested in meeting on‐line. I have also been approached by a number of


Rotarians who find, because of business and other commitments, they are no longer able to take an active role in their Club.

I have asked Ross Ellis, as President of the Rotary Club of Fyshwick, to form a committee to establish our first E‐Club in District 9710. If you would like more information, please contact Ross on: 02 6286 3797 or 0412 122 330 or [email protected]

Beth and I will be in Thailand until 22 May and look forward to joining you at President Kalyan Banerjee’s visit on 23 May.

Regards to all

Rob Woolley

AArroouunndd tthhee CClluubbss News from Club Bulletins and other closely-guarded sources

Last year, the Rotary Club of Moruya awarded a Tertiary Assistance Scholarship Grant of $1500 to Kym Brown to help her through the first year of a Bachelor of Medical Chemistry degree. Last Wednesday evening President Terry Young presented Kym with a further grant of $1500 to help support her through the second year of the course. Kym has worked hard through her first year, and the club congratulated her on her achievement of High Distinctions in all her subjects. She hopes to progress to an advanced degree and has developed an interest in the chemical aspects of control systems of the human body. She would like to become a medical researcher or a GP in a rural practice.

Still at RC Moruya, the Club sought nominations from the various health providers in Moruya and district for the award of Nurse of the year. The five finalists were invited to a Rotary meeting held on Wednesday 4 April at the Moruya Bowling Club. The finalists were Fay Hill, Debbie Whitten, Elizabeth Hallahan, Leonie Margaux and Lenore Newman. Lenore was away at the time and unable to attend. Each of those present was invited to speak briefly about themselves.

Fay Hill, nominated by Moruya Hospital, has joined the hospital in 1957 in the domestic department, became a Nursing Assistant and later an Enrolled Nurse.

Debbie Whitten, nominated by Eurobodalla Nursing Service, has worked in Aged Care since 1978.

Elizabeth Hallahan, nominated by the Campbell Street Surgery (Moruya), has been the chronic disease management facilitator for the practice for ten years.

Leonie Margaux, also nominated by Eurobodalla Nursing Service, has lived in Moruya for two years. She has had a leaning towards age care after seeing how beneficial community nursing can be by helping to keep older people happy in their own homes.

June Mills, Moruya Rotary Club’s Vocational Service Director, presented each of the finalists present with a Certificate of Appreciation. A similar certificate will be presented to Lenore Newman at a later date.

President of the Moruya Rotary Club, Terry Young then announced that Elizabeth Hallahan had been selected as Nurse of the year and presented her with a suitably inscribed trophy.


Last Saturday, Moruya Rotary Club—they have been very busy lately— displayed the contents of a ShelterBox, including the tent erected next to the swimming pool. Collection boxes were quite heavy by the end of the morning!

As a result of the generosity of the Moruya and district community and its visitors, the Club has succeeded over the last few years in raising sufficient funds to purchase 17 ShelterBoxes which cost about $1000 each and it is well on the way to purchasing another three boxes.

Guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Canberra North recently was Wing Commander John Downing (Retired), a former commander of the Royal Australian Air Force’s No 2 Squadron (Canberra Bombers) in Vietnam. John started with a short history of the squadron and then told the more personal story of how he was shot down by a surface‐to‐air missile, ejected, and was rescued. He then fielded a number of questions.

Wing Commander John Downing, Geoff Tuckwell and Louise Downing.


The installation of modern lighting at the Crookwell Memorial Oval is now underway due to the generosity of the Rotary Club of Hall. The Club made a decision to return part of the profit from its very successful Capital Region Farmers Markets to regions involved in supporting the markets. The Club donated $20 000 of the $65 000 required; the remainder coming from RC Crookwell and local fundraising

Thank you to our team of volunteers from RC Woden Daybreak (Alice, Barry, Graham, Janette, Jenni and Lyn) who supported the Woden Community Service Easter Egg hunt on Easter Sunday morning. The weather was beautiful. The Woden Community Service team managed children's games while Rotary looked after refreshments and hiding the eggs for the hunt. Alice, Lyn and Janette displayed superior child wrangling skills during the actual hunt, ensuring each child was successful!

What a great event! The weather was perfect for the Relay for Life and RC Pambula’s cooking and serving facilities had been upgraded.

The Club’s bulletin reports: It was a pleasure to work at this event and work we did. Our top hat comes off to David Gilbert. David is a great organiser and once again has done a marvellous job. Many thanks to David’s captains and helpers, many who are ‘friends of Rotary’. At the closing ceremony our Club received great praise from the Relay for Life committee for our high standard and quality of food served. Treasurer Lou Roper said, “The proceeds from the catering at this years relay totalled $3187.50. Although this represents an 18% reduction on last year’s effort of $3869.70, in my opinion this was a good result as the attendance this year was substantially less than last year”.

Many thanks to Lou for his efforts; Lou was the catering champ for the first two Relays. The next two were organised brilliantly by Lee Beatty and David Gilbert has done the last two.


A bit of excitement at a recent RC Milton Ulladulla meeting when a water spout over Ulladulla Harbour was visible from the meeting venue.

Things have been running hot on the membership front at RC Yass this year. Due largely to the great efforts of Toni Hopkinson and PDG Mick Newling, the Club has inducted four new members this year. The latest addition to the fold is Cyril Cox, pictured in the centre, with his sponsor PP Lynn Dorman and President Judy Ford. No sooner was he inducted than Cyril became the Club’s President Nominee.

At Canberra Sunrise, President Garth Britton was delighted to induct two new Rotarians—Sarah Palmer and Tim McNaught.


Meanwhile, the great Rotarians at Pambula arrived at District Assembly with bags of spectacles destined for sorting and distribution by Rotary Australia World Community Service.

… and the team from Tuggeranong ensured all were well fed!

Great news at Canberra Rotaract with the induction of seven new Rotaractors. President Jess Main (6th from the left) is pictured with the new Rotaractors and AG Rowley Tompsett

Photo courtesy Kate Campbell

More inductions … this time at RC Bowral Mittagong where President Ian Langford inducted Rick McCartney as wife Joy watches on.


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It is starting off as a busy year for District Youth Exchange. Lots of marketing has been done in the early part of the year and the results are now showing with many applications flowing in. 30 April was the cut‐off date, but in this busy electronic world, the reality is that interview numbers will not be finalised until late June with the interview weekend being held at Greenhills on 7 and 8 July.

As I write this, I have received ten applications with a further 23 expressions of interest via email to be formally turned into applications. Reality is that we should interview 22+ students this year for 16–18 places overseas in 2013; that will be a terrific result.

Some of the applications are quite outstanding—like Amel Saeed, the President of Telopea Park Interact Club—and it highlights the links we as a District are creating with our schools when we join all the youth projects together and feed from the efforts of one another. Clearly the Telopea Park experience has to be one of the great D9710 success stories and we are seeing more and more Interact students becoming increasing aware of what Rotary has to offer the youth of the world.

There is a requirement to find ‘home’ Clubs for a number of students, including Amel Saeed so if you are able to help, or indeed get tapped on the shoulder, please take the responsibility to help these fine candidates to ensure their dreams are realised. The cost to be the ‘home’ Club for a student is approximately $600, ($120 application, $375 Blazer, some Club meals when you have your student and parents visit your Club); remember to turn these

opportunities into potential new members.

The list of inbound students is being circulated to Presidents Elect, with Cooma already having Lea Nickel from Germany locked in. Lea will arrive in July.

Getting the paperwork finalised is always a tough process for the YEP committee and time marches on with the pressure to have these hosting applications finalised and back overseas so that visas can be applied for. It is a detailed process, applications are received from around the world, host Clubs have to be found and the paperwork signed off. The District Committee then has to apply for AASES (secondary school exchange paperwork) from either the NSW or ACT departments of Education and finally the paperwork has to be returned overseas so that students can start the formal process of applying for visas; a process which is very stressful and can take many weeks.

This year potential outbound students have been asked to come to the interview weekend with the names of two families who would be willing to help host a student. This will dramatically help Clubs in finding host families and create a pool of potential new members for Clubs.

Please help by responding and completing hosting requests quickly. With thanks

Rohan District Chair, Rotary Youth Exchange

Noting the discussions on Rotary Grace in the recent Rotary Down Under, perhaps one of our Southern Highlands clubs—Berrima District— has an acceptable alternative invocation …

We join together as Rotarians to give thanks. May we always abide by the rules we have established,

Those of trust, fellowship and ethics, And may we place Service Above Self in our daily lives.

Amel Saeed with Beth Woolley


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The Australian Rotary Success Conference to be held in Canberra 22‐23 July 2012 will celebrate successful programs and projects in Australian Rotary. Together we will learn of successful recruitment and retention programs, successful leadership initiatives and successful and diverse Clubs—just a few of the reasons to join us for this celebration.

Invitations have been extended to RI President Elect Ron Burton and General Secretary John Hewko to attend and share with us their views on Rotary successes at the international level.

Closing keynote speaker Kirsty Sword Gusmao will speak on Rotary’s work in Timor Leste, her adopted country. As Timor Leste’s former first lady, Kirsty is a renowned humanitarian and passionate teacher. She has travelled the world, working on documentaries and been a human rights activist for over a decade.

Speaking of Rotary’s support to her country, Kirsty says “We are well aware of the pivotal role Rotary has played in co‐ordinating assistance from Rotary and many non‐Rotary sources, making use of your wide established networks both in Australia and Timor Leste.”

Probably best known for her work as founder and chairwoman of the Alola Foundation which she established in 2001, Kirsty addresses the needs of Timor Leste women and their families. Kirsty was appointed by the President Dr. Jose Ramos Horta as Goodwill Ambassador for Education in 2007. This appointment was in recognition of Kirsty’s tireless efforts to formalise future endeavours in improving the nation’s education system.

Through her educational initiatives, the Aloha Foundation provides scholarships for youths in need, encouraging their personal development. She has contributed to the improvement of child mortality rates through promotion of health programs throughout local communities. The Foundation’s efforts have also been fostering the handcrafts industry to provide added economic empowerment to the Timorese people.

So join us as we celebrate Rotary successes. To ensure the Conference is affordable, the organisers have managed to keep the Conference cost to $100, including morning and afternoon teas, Saturday lunch and the Saturday night Conference Dinner. The only additional cost will be to participate in the Friday night Friendship Dinner.

Registration is available on the RDU website and you are encouraged to register as early as possible. Numbers will be limited to around 600, the capacity of the Conference venue.

For more information, contact the Conference Organising Chairman, PDG Bob Greeney at [email protected]

Breaking News

Conference Coodinator Noel Trevaskis has just announced RI President Nominee Ron Burton—accompanied by his wife Jetta—will attend the Rotary Success Conference in Canberra. Ron, who hails from Oklahoma USA, is Vice Chair of Rotary International’s Future Vision Committee. Ron’s vision is to have every Rotarian appreciate what it means to be a Rotarian. He believes the Rotary International Strategic Plan and the Future Vision Plan are the tools to make this happen.

Here is an opportunity to hear from the man who will be President the year Future Vision is introduced across the Rotary world.


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Kerryn Wake—Vice President, Interact Club of Tumbarumba

On the 9 March, ten members of Tumbarumba Interact, along with three Rotarians, ventured to Sussex Inlet. We left Tumbarumba at 4.30 pm and began the long journey on our small mini bus—with many laughs, great memories, and the making of some beautiful friendships. As our singing ability came to life, some ear drums may have been damaged and some vocal cords hurt, but nothing that didn’t make it one fun bus trip. At around 11.00 pm we had successfully made it to the beautiful coastal town—after our long awaited McDonald’s stop in Goulburn and a windy endeavour down Kangaroo Valley. After being greeted ever so kindly by Phil Mewett, it was not long before we all were ready for bed.

An early start in the morning, and the nerves and excitement were bubbling at breakfast. Everyone was ready to go and Phil lead the way on the half an hour drive to Washer Woman’s Beach at Bennalong where all our worries ceased. All dressed in our body wet suits, looking very professional, having a stretch, learning how to stand while surfing, it was than our turn to hit the waves. We met Pam Burridge and her friends who helped her teach us ‘country kids’ and were extremely helpful. Before long we were all having a wonderful day, with many finding success. Everyone was very excited with having a go and accomplishing surfing. All of us took a big tumble at least once, but everyone recovered and kept going. After a lovely start to the morning we finished up around 11 o’clock, all very grateful with what we

had been taught by former world number one, Pam Burridge herself.

Heading back to Sussex Inlet, fatigue had set in but all was fixed by a lovely big lunch. After lunch we went down to the beach, only 200m away from the beautiful house we were staying in, and had a very relaxing, fun afternoon. We set up for a very ‘Aussie’ game of beach cricket and then went walking and explored the beach. Later in the afternoon we had dinner and all got dressed ready for a night at the movies. We were kindly shouted to the movies in Nowra by local Rotarian and owner Bob Brainwood, enjoying the newly released movie John Carter.

Next morning we were spoilt by eggs and bacon for breakfast and with everyone very keen to get back surfing again. We all headed off to Bennalong for the second day. The waves were a lot smoother this day and everyone stood up and had so much fun. The advice from our instructors never ceased and was really nice for everyone to be cheering each other along. We didn’t want the morning to end. Although, eventually after a long struggle with getting our wetsuits off we had to say goodbye to our surfing instructors and the beautiful beach and get organised to head home. After packing up everything we said a huge thank you to our wonderful hosts and hit the road.

After everyone had napped and regained their energy our singing ‘talents’ arose yet again; we’re sure much to the delight of our bus driver. We drove past our Welcome to Tumbarumba Shire around 9 o’clock with spirits high and a really nice group of friends. We are ever so grateful for the time our leaders put in to make the trip happen and for taking us along: Anastasha Amey, Vanessa and Glen McGrath ‐ THANK YOU! Also to Phil and Denise Mewett for having us stay in your beautiful home and Bob Brainwood for letting us go to the movies. A great weekend had by all!


We are looking forward to holding the Rotary District Youth Conference just outside of Tumbarumba at Laurel Hill on the June long weekend. We encourage all youth from around the district to come along for the fun and exciting activities we have planned.

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Outreach: Thousands of CPAs are about to volunteer!

We are still looking for NFP organisations to register opportunities for our CPA Australia Registered Accountants to volunteer as they will be ready to go in just 2 weeks time!

Over 130 000 registered CPA accountants are getting involved in volunteering thanks to CPA Australia making it part of their professional development and we want to make sure that their skills are put to good use!

Need a Bookkeeper, Board member, Auditor or Accountant?

We want to ensure opportunities and openings for these skilled volunteers are there within Not for Profit organisations when they come looking, so if a registered Accountant could help your advisory board or financial operations, please register your volunteer opportunity today!

It’s simple and it’s FREE!

Register your organisation here: http://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/volunteer/add


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As everyone knows, nothing is sweeter than tiny baby fingers and chubby baby toes. From two of the most gifted picture book creators of our time, Mem Fox and Helen Oldbury, here is a celebration of baby fingers, baby toes and the joy they—and the babies to whom they belong—bring to everyone, everywhere, all over the world!

During March, Rotarians in D9710 distributed more than 50 copies of Mem Fox’s book, Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes, to hospitals throughout D9710 for babies born in March 2012.

With the help of John Britton, Ann Jenkins, Maureen Manning, Ian Radford, Ian Sayers, Sue Trevaskis and others who helped transport the

books to the regional centres, the books were delivered to the new mothers and their babies, on the 28th March.

Mem Fox is an enthusiastic supporter of this special Rotary programme and said:

''I am thrilled to endorse the excellent work of Rotary, in particular their 'Read‐to‐your‐Baby' birthday programme. Reading and sharing the magical world of books brings great joy, laughter and peace to everyone involved. And literacy follows ... as night does day”.

This is the second year in which Rotarians in D9710 has supported this wonderful literacy for babies program; many thank to all involved for helping to make this programme the success I has become.

Bob Greeney District Chair Public Relations

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Make the 2012–13 Rotary year the best ever by helping your club or district reach its goals. Consider these leadership tips, passed along by past club and district leaders.

1. Fill team positions as early as possible

2. Plan new projects early and with continuity in mind; support past projects that carry over into your year in leadership, even if the project isn’t within your area of interest

3. Network with your Rotary colleagues and mentors for expert advice at events like Presidents‐elect Training Seminars and the International Assembly

4. Tap new club members as a sounding board for new ideas and experienced members for their institutional knowledge

5. Prepare three short speeches on general topics that can be adapted for any meeting in a pinch

6. Delegate tasks to your team ‐‐ you can't know or do everything yourself

7. Recognise volunteers by saying “thank you” ‐‐ people like to be appreciated

8. Remember that while planning is key, it is through action that Rotarians put Service Above Self

Club leaders can consult Be a Vibrant Club: Your Club Leadership Plan and see which of the recommended best practices your club is already doing and which ones could be used to increase its vitality. Also, refer to the Planning Guide for Effective Rotary Clubs to modify goals or add new ones, and the manuals of the Club Officers’ Kit to help you carry out your role.


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Chrysula Winegar, a former Rotary Youth Exchange student to South Africa—The Rotarian April 2011

When I was 17 years old, Rotary International gave me the opportunity to live in South Africa for 12 months.

My parents and brothers worked seven jobs to pay my way. That year changed everything about my life’s path and shaped my world view. It has impacted every major decision I’ve made since.

Many decades ago, Rotarians began creating these Rotary Youth Exchanges to foster global understanding and respect. A young girl or boy from an average family could spend a year in foreign lands, while in the safe arms of local families who created a framework for exploration.

I observed the last hurrahs of apartheid. We lived under a state of emergency with intense military presence including soldiers on our school buses carrying automatic weapons. The media was under total censorship. But even then, in the pre‐internet world, ways were found to share truths.

Much of it didn’t make sense to me then. But I took it all in. Twenty‐five years later, as a mother, I unlock these observations with a different perspective. My youth exchange experience is a lens though which I examine life’s challenges, thanks to Rotary, and my families both here and there.

Around the time I went on my youth exchange, Rotary International was embarking upon its campaign to eradicate polio. I vividly remember those beginnings. I saw the ravages of the disease up close.

We are ‘this close’ to ending polio because people like you created a culture of global thinking for people like me. We are ‘this close’ because you have never given up. We are ‘this close’ because your hearts are big and you were willing to take a multi‐generational position. You knew it wouldn’t be solved in 5 years or even 10. You knew it would take a truly long view.

And all the while you sent young girls and boys out into the world so we could learn, engage, and be passionate about people from everywhere. It is true; Africa takes a piece of your heart and claims it for her own. It’s been 25 years since I breathed African air. I long to return. But I don’t need to be there to love that great continent or her many peoples; and to work with them for a better future.

Chrysula Winegar is community manager for the United Nations Foundation’s Million Moms

Challenge and a former Rotary Youth Exchange student.


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Rotary International News

Pauline Leung, Rotary public image coordinator from Taiwan, says it’s important for Rotarians to promote a consistent message. A public image survey conducted by RI in 2010 indicates that many people know about Rotary, but not necessarily what the organisation does. Do your friends and co‐workers know that you're a Rotarian? Do you tell acquaintances about your club's good works in the community or internationally?

Did you know that talking about your involvement in Rotary could significantly enhance the organisation's image and boost public awareness? It’s up to every Rotarian to tell the world what Rotary is and does.

According to a public image survey commissioned by Rotary International in 2010, people are much more likely to know about Rotary and perceive it positively as a charitable organisation if they personally know a Rotarian. The finding is just one of many that could shape how clubs and districts promote Rotary in their communities.

RI commissioned the survey of 1000 individuals in each of six countries—Argentina, Australia, Germany, Japan, South Africa, and the United States—to gauge the general public's awareness and perception of the organisation. The results are consistent with those of a similar survey conducted in 2006; while respondents had heard of Rotary, they did not know much about what it does.

Building familiarity is not easy, says Pauline. "Sometimes Rotarians are doing too many things and can get people confused about Rotary. We must have consistency when promoting the image of Rotary. Rotarians should receive training so they can clearly express our position, our vision, our values, and our areas of focus."

High awareness, low familiarity

The survey showed that awareness of Rotary varies from country to country, and culture to culture. Of the six countries surveyed, Australia had the highest proportion of respondents who said they were aware of Rotary (95 percent), while Germany had the lowest (34 percent).

But awareness of Rotary doesn't necessarily translate into familiarity with what it does. While almost everyone in Australia indicated an awareness of Rotary, only 35 percent of respondents said they had some familiarity with the organisation. In South Africa, where 80 percent of respondents indicated they were aware of Rotary, only 23 percent said they had some familiarity with what it does.

The survey report concluded that public image efforts will need to be tailored to each country. It also noted that boosting awareness alone will not be enough to get the public to readily associate Rotary with good works, or to generate greater community involvement.

The survey further concluded that demographics play a significant role in whether people have heard of Rotary. The survey included a cross section of each country's population by age, gender, income level, and education level. In Japan, 67 percent of respondents age 40 or older said they had heard of Rotary, compared to only 38 percent of those younger than 40. In Argentina, 63 percent of the highest income bracket had heard of Rotary, while only 20 percent of the lowest income bracket had. The report concluded that clubs may need to gain a better understanding of what would increase interest among younger professionals.

Public perception and giving

The public’s view of Rotarians differs somewhat from how Rotarians see themselves. More than 65 percent of respondents viewed Rotarians as charitable, respected, and caring. But only 26 percent selected the attribute ‘women’ to describe Rotary, while more than 50 percent associated the organisation with men. In other questions, more respondents said they associated club membership with men than with women. The survey concluded that Rotary is still being seen as a male‐dominated organisation. Work needs to be directed toward communicating opportunities for women to join.

Interest in contributing time or money to a Rotary club varied by nation. Interest was highest in South Africa, at 49 percent, and lowest in Japan, at 10 percent. The survey report concluded that because interest in contributing money varies by nation, Rotarians need to tailor marketing efforts to reflect local club initiatives.


The public’s interest in joining a Rotary club is low. Among the countries surveyed, an average of only 16 percent of respondents said they would be likely to join a local Rotary club. More than 59 percent said they would be unlikely to join. In the United States, women were half as likely as men to report interest in joining.

Similar findings

Similar findings came from focus groups that RI conducted between 2008 and 2010. The 40 groups included non‐Rotarians in cities where Rotary had been experiencing membership declines.

“Because each Rotary club is independent in deciding what services they want to be involved in, this can cause mixed impressions in the communities on what we do,” Leung says. “These surveys underscore the importance of having a consistent message.”

The 1.2 million Rotary club members worldwide are the organisation's greatest strength.

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District 9710 is privileged to have a visit from the world President of Rotary on the 23 May 2012; the visit to 9710, will be one of only 4 Districts in Australia for the RI President.

DG Rob has organised a Rotary meeting for his visit, hosted by the Rotary Club of Canberra City—the home of the District Governor.

President Kalyan is an excellent speaker and will be the guest speaker for the Rotary meeting.

DG Rob has asked all Rotary Clubs to transfer their meeting that week to the combined meeting so that their members can join in this wonderful experience.

Details of the Rotary meeting are:

Date 23 May 2012.

Location Hellenic Club, 1 Matilda Street, Phillip ACT 2606

Time 6.00 for 6.30pm to be finished by 8.30pm

Cost $ 35.00 per person for 2 course meal, special diets catered for.

This will be a partner and guests night.

In addition to the address by RI President Kalyan, there will be an opportunity to:

• have new members inducted by the President of Rotary International, and

• recognise non‐Rotarians your Club would like to honour as Paul Harris Fellows.

Contact DG Rob for further details.

Registration will be available on the District website from 20 March 2012.


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Article and photos by Issa Shalhoub, RC Milton‐Ulladulla

There is no cure for Polio, the best protection is prevention. What a feeling, India this year has been removed from the list of the last four endemic countries.

As you are aware the Rotary Club of Milton‐Ulladulla, D9710, last year came up with a project to sell moneyboxes that it hopes will generate much‐needed funds to create a Polio Free world. The project has the potential to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars in Australia and millions worldwide, a great outcome for little effort.

The moneyboxes are now in stock in Ulladulla and are ready for purchase and distribution.

The moneyboxes, in the shape of a safe, feature the RI emblem and carry the words ‘Eradicating Polio WORLDWIDE … WITH MY HELP’.

The safe moneyboxes are being sold for $10 each with $8 going directly to the prevention of Polio, which can vaccinate 13 children and protect them for life. It is that simple.

The project was launched in October 2011 at the D9710 Conference in Canberra, with a Power Point Presentation, watched by all attendees. The response has been excellent, now the Club is seeking support from all D9710 Clubs and Rotary Clubs worldwide.

PP Clive Cross is hoping that people who purchase the safe moneyboxes would display them and then donate the contents back to Rotary, providing on‐going funds for Polio Eradication, without having to door knock, stand in the street or shopping centres asking for donations.

Clive is asking Clubs to purchase a minimum of 40 safe moneyboxes, preferably 100, not just for their members, but also for the members’ family, colleagues and associates.

Clubs can present their guest speakers with a moneybox and could also display them at functions or events organised by the Club to raise polio awareness, advertise what Rotary does and perhaps entice new members.

The safe moneyboxes are on display at the Parliament House in Canberra thanks to the support and backing of Claire Moore, Senator for Queensland and Trish Crossin, Senator for the Northern Territory.

The project was displayed at the 2012 RI Convention in Bangkok, thanks to PDG RC Noel Trevaskis. It will also be on display at the dinner for RI President Kalyan Banerjee in Canberra later this month.

It is achievable, we can do it, let’s work together and we will do it.

You can view the project’s Facts Sheet, Facts Poster and a video directly from our Club’s website, or simply put in your search engine: rotary milton ulladulla. For further information regarding the project, ordering and payment please email Clive Cross [email protected] or Issa Shalhoub [email protected]. A PowerPoint Presentation of the project, for Clubs members’ viewing, can be emailed upon request.

PP Clive Cross with Safe Moneyboxes

At the District 9710 Conference, members of the RC of Milton‐

Ulladulla, PP Clive Cross, PP Trevor Schofield, Rtn Issa Shalhoub, Rtn Yvonne Young and PE Michael Mastronardi

Rtn Brian Wilkins, PP Clive Cross and Rtn Jeni Wilkins next to a Polio Stand at the Ulladulla Blessing of the Fleet, 8 Apr 2012


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Australian Year of the Farmer celebrates what farmers provide for all Australians. It’s about what we eat; about fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy, grains, fish, meat, eggs and about wool, cotton, timber ‐ all the fine quality products that our farmers grow and harvest across this great country. Like Rotary, a focus on promoting education and careers in agribusiness is fundamental to the Year of the Farmer initiative, with many of the aspects of the Year concentrated on these objectives. Australian Year of the Farmer is proud to have her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, AM as our Patron, and Glenn McGrath as an Ambassador, representing the Year and supporting initiatives.

Australia’s farmers should be acknowledged and honoured: for feeding the nation, for leading the world in modern farming techniques and innovation, and for sustaining the vital agribusinesses that underpin our economy. With the majority of metropolitan based people (69%) visiting rural areas less than once a year, the connections between country and city need to be preserved and strengthened to ensure ongoing understanding of food production.

In order to fund the Australian Year of the Farmer program, resources are being raised through the sale of the One Country Card. The One Country Card provides loads of everyday savings, benefits and deals, plus your online registration provides you automatic entry into the One Country Sweepstakes where you can share in $250 000 worth of prizes. The earlier you register the more chances you have of winning. The Cards are now available online at www.yearofthefarmer.com.au, on the Australian Year of the Farmer Roadshow vehicles and at all participating Australian Post retail outlets across the country.

Your purchase of a One Country Card shows your support for our farmers and Australia’s future. Funds raised will continue to deliver awareness and education programs that will promote the development of Australian agriculture throughout 2012 and beyond.

The Australian Year of the Farmer Roadshow, comprising of nine custom built vehicles and trailers is travelling over 56,000KMs and attending more than 300 events throughout Australia including agricultural shows and field days, industry events, food and wine festivals, rodeos, sporting events, music and cultural festivals. The Roadshow is a great way for people of all ages to learn more about Australian farmers and the vital role they play in feeding, clothing and housing us, in addition to the breadth and diversity of career opportunities available within the agricultural sector. We’ve got a busy schedule throughout 2012 – go to www.yearofthfarmer.com.au to check out the events and activities, and please be sure to drop in and say G’day if you see us. Chances are we’ll be visiting your area soon!

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The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is a series of fast‐paced, interactive, (three one–day) courses offered to refine a Rotarian’s leadership skills and increase their base knowledge of Rotary.

Courses are fun, topical, interactive and geared to busy people who would like to be more dynamic as leaders and members of their vocation and club. The training provides a better understanding of Rotary and its programs, developing more effective Rotarians.

RLI training is recognised by the Gordon Institute as credit towards the Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management.

The first District 9710 program was successfully commenced on 18 February and the RLI Team will be commencing at least two more programs this Rotary year: on May 26 in Canberra at the West Belconnen Leagues Club (9.30 am‐5.00 pm) and June 23 in Goulburn (details to be advised).

Do you have a group of Clubs needing a course in a regional area? If you have at least 15 participants, District Trainer Bernie Rodgers and the team will come to you … wherever you are.

Contact Bernie for more details at [email protected]


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David Copley spoke at the District Conference in 2011 … here is his story …

“My experience with Rotary has given me the confidence to say ‘why can’t we do this?’ and try to make a difference.”

Since completing his Bachelor of Nursing at Flinders University, South Australia, former Indigenous Scholarship holder David Copley has gone on to become a decorated mental health clinician, educator and author, in spite of his own personal battles.

Originally developing an interest in indigenous nursing which progressed into mental health after discovering indigenous mental health issues are three times higher than the rest of the population.

“My studies and my research in nursing showed me we have a lot of indigenous mental health issues which made me question what was causing all of this,” David says.

With a keen interest in Indigenous mental health, David began work as an Aboriginal Mental Health clinician for General Practice Network South (GPNS) in 2009, through which he was also able to engage in mental health programs in Aboriginal Family Clinics.

Since completing his scholarship, David has achieved many things, namely becoming a finalist in the 2009 HESTA Australian Nursing Awards and producing two chapters on the topic of best practice in indigenous health care, however, overcoming a highly developed form of bowel cancer is arguably David’s greatest achievement.

“The experience has taught me to not accept everything and I now have the ability to go out and pass on knowledge,” David says.

The experience of surviving cancer encouraged David to appear on a DVD from the South Australian Health Department addressing the need for more bowel screening in Aboriginal people.

Presently, David is completing his Masters in Nursing and continues to act as a part of an expert advisory that continues to investigate symptoms of lung cancer and is taking a very hands on role in Quit SA, a joint initiative from the Heart Foundation and The Cancer Council of South Australia aimed at lowering the presence of tobacco use in South Australia.

Considering his strong background in Indigenous health, David is actively involved in delivering this message to the Indigenous population through the formation of www.giveupsmokesforgood.org.au, a website aimed specifically at encouraging the Indigenous population to give up smoking.

While he has gone on to achieve many things since his Indigenous Scholarship year, David thanks his experience with Rotary, in particular his sponsoring club, the Rotary Club of Blackwood, South Australia, for giving him the confidence to spread his health message.

“I used to be a terrible public speaker,” David laughs.

“But my experience with Rotary has given me the confidence to say ‘why can’t we do this?’ and try to make a difference” he says.

SSoommee tthhoouugghhttss ffrroomm PPrreessiiddeenntt KKaallyyaann …… I believe in the words of Mahatma Gandhi, who said, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Whatever changes we are seeking in our world, those changes begin with—and within—each of us. Change is at the heart of Rotary. If we thought everything was fine the way it was, why would we have become Rotarians? Our goal in Rotary is positive change. The relationship between Rotary clubs and the Rotary Foundation is symbiotic. We can’t have one without the other. Rotarians should understand that it is their service, first and foremost, that is needed in Rotary; but that their support of the Foundation helps that service go further and accomplish more.


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District 6820 from Mississippi is our partner for this year’s Group Study Exchange. The theme for the incoming team is a general exchange.

The theme for our outgoing team is health, especially aged care.

The following dates are important:

30 June GSE team leader applications close

7 July Team leader interviews in ACT 30 July GSE team member applications close

11–12 August GSE team member interviews in ACT

5 October D6820 team arrive in Canberra

26–28 October D9710 Conference at Batemans Bay & Moruya

2 November D6820 team return to USA

April 2013 D9710 team to USA

Clubs of D9710, please contact me if you are willing to host the incoming team – we need your help!

Genevieve Power District Chair [email protected]

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Mental illness affects one in five Australians every year.

Suicide, a tragic consequence of mental illness such as depression, claims over 2,000 lives each year in Australia. Steps need to be taken to halt this tragic loss of life.

Australian Rotary Health supports finding a solution to Australia’s mental health crisis through research. Last year we funded more than 40 studies into various areas of mental health but to continue supporting this vital research we need your help.

Last year Australian Rotary Health launched an exciting new fundraising and mental health research awareness event called Hat Day which raised over $100 000 for mental health research. This event provided an excellent platform to raise the profile of Rotary in the community while supporting a very worthy cause.

This year, Hat Day is returning on the 18 May, however your Club is free to wear a hat and donate to Hat Day at any day that suits you. We would like your help in promoting Hat Day in your community as one of your clubs PR, membership and service projects to help us support more research into this vital field of health.

Hat Day is a fun day for everyone to find out more about mental health and help raise funds to aid mental health research.

If you would like to know more, please see your Club President, call 1800 781 878 or email [email protected] for more information.


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Membership

As at 30 June 2011 1455

As at 30 April 2012 1445

Increase (decrease) (10)

Members inducted 133

Members resigned 143

Attendance

Average meeting attendance 73%

Service

Total hours last month 5170

Total hours this year* 51 921

* since August

FFoorr tthhee ddiiaarryy …… Dinner with RI President Kalyan Banerjee

Hellenic Club, Woden 23 May 2012

District Changeover

Federation Square, Gold Creek 1 July 2012

Australian Rotary Conference Hellenic Club, Woden 21–22 July 2012

Model United Nations Assembly Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Parkes, ACT 17–19 August 2012

Australian Rotaract Conference Canberra Rex Hotel, Braddon, ACT 20‐21 October 2012

District Conference Batemans Bay & Moruya 26–28 October 2012

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Contributions to TThhee DDiissttrriicctt CChhrroonniiccllee are welcome, particularly when supported by photographs. Please check your photographs; bright pictures

with good contrast reproduce best. Submissions close on the 30th of the month preceding publication. Articles can be forwarded to the Editor at [email protected]

Our work for understanding and peace extends from the doorsteps of our own communities to ... the other side of the globe ... working together as Rotarians we can help build a better world. Through the programs of The Rotary Foundation, we are

empowered to participate in the highest calling we know—peacemaking.

Peace must begin with each of us and within each of us.

When there is peace in the heart, there is peace in the family.

When there is peace in the family, there is peace in the village.

When there is peace in the village, there is peace in the country.

When there is peace in the country, there is peace in the world.

Herbert G. Brown—RI President 1995–96.

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