In the past months, Beth and I have had the privilege of visiting almost all the Clubs in the District.  This has been a very rewarding time for both of us as we have learnt what wonderful projects and Community programs are organised and run by Clubs in their local communities.  Thank you for the warm hospitality and friendship you have shown to us during our visits.

The District Conference is being held from the 21 to 23 October at the Hellenic Club in Woden ACT we extend a special welcome for all to attend and enjoy the fun and friendship of other Rotarians, partners and friends.  The program includes four excellent keynote speakers and information on many Rotary programs.  The Rotary Expo will highlight many programs supported by Rotary Clubs in the District.   

The theme for the Saturday evening dinner is “The world of Rotary Friendships and Fellowships”.  Rotary has over 50 Fellowships where members get together either physically or electronically to enjoy their favourite hobbies or sports.

We have also had the privilege of attending the following events and celebrations:

• The Interact Club of Telopea Park Fashion Parade to raise funds for the Vanuatu School project.
• Canberra East book launch on the 45 year History of the Club.
• Canberra Careers Markets sponsored by ACT Government and RC Canberra City.
• Science and Engineering Challenge at ANU - organised by RC Ginninderra.
• National Summer Science School – committee meeting.
• Canberra City Antique Fair.
• Model United Nations Assembly - organised by RC Canberra Sunrise.
• Rotary Youth Exchange camp at Tuross Heads.
• RYPEN Camp at Mogo.
• National Skill Week launch with Senator Chris Evans at the National Press Club, Rotary is a sponsor of this event.

All these events were great examples of Rotary Clubs serving their Communities.

Last month was Membership and Extension month, I have spoken to Clubs during our visit about membership and I have used the example of how I was introduced into Rotary, simply put I was asked.  It is great to see so many Clubs are working on membership and retention strategies and organising special events to invite members of the Community along to Rotary meetings and sharing the Rotary story with them.   We need more Rotarians to help us do good thing in our Communities.

September is New Generations Month.  Youth are the future of Rotary and Rotary has many wonderful programs which are supported by many of the Clubs.  There has been a lot of interest in Interact Clubs since the last Interact camp at Tumbarumba in May this year.  The Interact Club of Tumbarumba will be chartered on the 31 October and the Interact Club of Nowra Anglican College later in the year; other Clubs are working with Schools to form Interact Clubs. 

The RYPEN Camp in September was great success thanks to Brian and his committee and the Clubs that support it.

NYSF selections have been completed and a team building camp held for those who were successful at interview.

RYLA is being held again in January, this is a great leadership program for all young people aged between 18 and 25 years old.

Rotary Youth Exchange recently held a camp at Tuross Heads where the outgoing students met and spent time with the incoming students from the countries where they will be going next year. This was a wonderful opportunity for the outgoing students to learn more about the Country and District they will be visiting.

Next month I will highlight some of the other great New Generation programs

Enjoy your Rotary