Stories

The Rotary Club of Brisbane is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Kevin Egu. Kevin was a passionate and dedicated coral gardener, committed to restoring Papua New Guinea’s reefs and protecting marine ecosystems. His work inspired those around him, and his legacy will live on in the communities and reefs he cared for so deeply.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.

https://kyeemafoundation.org/kevinchampion/

Dear Members,

I’d like to start by acknowledging some of our members who are unwell or unable to attend meetings at the moment. We miss you, and you are in our thoughts. As always, we name and acknowledge our absent friends in meetings, and it’s clear that everyone in the club deeply cares. We look forward to welcoming you back when you’re able. 

A special mention to our Vice President, Bruce McNaught, who is heading off for a well-earned break, travelling around New Zealand with his wife, Cherryl. We wish them both a fantastic and relaxing time.

Club Goals Discussion

At our meeting on Monday, 24 February, we reviewed our club goals and achievements for the year. 

• Leadership Development – At least three of our newer members are already engaging in Rotary Action Groups, helping to build future leaders within our club.

This discussion will continue in future meetings, but I encourage all members to check out myrotary.org to track our club’s goals and see how we’re progressing.

We were thrilled to have 512 people from 84* countries attend our Mega-Meeting co-hosted with Arthur Kanegis and Melanie Bennett of FutureWAVE,  who host The People-Powered Planet Podcast.  Arthur welcomed Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick and the Peacebuilders at the Carter School who are educating future generations in the Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding tools that Jimmy Carter championed. 
Watch the Replay at Mega-Meeting.com

After being approached by a corporate entity expressing general interest in supporting a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Grant project, we invite clubs to submit expressions of interest for potential projects in need of funding.

Projects need to meet the CSR Grant requirements including:

• Alignment with a Rotary area of focus
• Beneficiaries must be in some sort of distress or poverty
• Project must relieve the distress of the beneficiaries (not just advocacy or education)
• Minimum project cost US$20,000 (approx. A$32,000)
• Project must be in Australia

• Helping domestic violence sufferers
• Providing mental health services (not self-help)
• Laptops for vulnerable school kids
• Targeted education programs for disadvantaged communities
• Creating employment opportunities (training, apprenticeships) for indigenous youth
• Disaster recovery/ Disaster response
• Medical equipment for disadvantaged communities

DATE: Friday 7 March at 11.00 am AEDT. 

Click Here Register !  https://forms.gle/TBxBwTrAZtEEhJH49

or Scan the QR Code to Register and Attend
Be part of the global conversations, connect, build your network and share friendships with  hundreds of Rotarians Leaders, Peace builders , Districts, Clubs and friends of Rotary who are joining  from over 50 countries around the world.

She is passionate about women's human rights, peace, and security; she served as a professor in transitional justice and has worked with UN Women in Colombia on projects related to peacebuilding, transitional justice, reintegration, and youth engagement in peace.

Our friends at the Rotary Club of Paddington have kindly invited us to attend the Welcome Morning Tea for the new cohort of Rotary Peace Fellows at the University of Queensland. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet these inspiring individuals, learn about their work in peace and conflict resolution, and show our club’s support for initiatives that promote global understanding and cooperation.

Event Details:
📍 The Terrace Room, Sir Llew Edwards Building (Building 14), UQ St Lucia
📅 Thursday, 20 February 2025
🕤 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
💰 No cost to attend

Please register directly here: https://rotary.centre.uq.edu.au

A big thank you to the Rotary Club of Paddington for organising this event and for their continued support of the Peace Fellows program. Let’s show our appreciation by attending and giving the new cohort a warm welcome!

We’d like to highlight the contributions of Professor Alastair Blanshard, a member of the Rotary Club of Brisbane, who has been actively supporting our club’s initiatives. Alastair holds the Paul Eliadis Chair of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Queensland’s School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry. His academic work focuses on the social and cultural history of ancient Greece, particularly in relation to gender, sexuality, and classical traditions.

Beyond his academic achievements, Alastair has made a significant impact by organising students from UQ to assist with packing containers at Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment (RARE). These efforts have been vital in facilitating the shipment of essential medical, educational, and community supplies to regions in need.

A big thank you to Alastair for encouraging his students to get involved. It’s inspiring to see people, whether Rotarians or not, stepping up to support these projects. This kind of collaboration is key to making Rotary’s work possible and impactful.

It’s also worth noting that Paul Eliadis, whose name is associated with Alastair’s academic chair, is a member of our club as well. Their contributions, both in their professional fields and through Rotary, reflect the diverse talents and dedication within our membership.

Thank you, Alastair, for your continued support and for bringing new hands to help with our shared mission of service!

Our first social evening meeting at Friday's Riverside went exactly as we'd hoped! Members who can’t usually make it to our lunch meetings were able to attend, bringing along family members and even a few local office workers curious about what Rotary is all about—which is exactly why we planned it this way.

We shared pizza, enjoyed relaxed conversations, and even had a few impromptu mini committee meetings. It was a fantastic mix of socialising and club business in a more casual setting.

As we begin 2025, it’s a great time to plan ahead for the United Nations International Day of Peace in September. With our Peace Pole installed at Petrie Terrace State School, now is the perfect opportunity to connect with the school and organise a ceremony around the Peace Pole to mark this important day. Clubs that have held similar ceremonies report excellent feedback from students and staff, creating meaningful connections within the community.

The latest Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment (RARE) newsletter for January–February 2025 is out, detailing the incredible work being done to support communities across the Pacific and beyond.

Highlights include:

The D9620 District Conference is hosting a photo competition to highlight Rotary in Action across the district. They’re looking for action shots—photos of members actively engaged in projects, fundraisers, or community service activities. These should capture people in motion, working on Rotary-related tasks, rather than static group poses.

If you’ve snapped some great moments while volunteering, this is a perfect opportunity to showcase our club’s work. Consider submitting photos from:

• Eddie’s Van, capturing the team in action during summer service.
• RARE (Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment) 

For seven weeks over summer, Denise Schellbach led another successful season with Eddie's Van, providing warm meals and support to those in need. A heartfelt thank you goes out to her loyal team of volunteers—always up early, punctual, capable, helpful, and smiling. It’s truly a pleasure to work alongside such dedicated individuals!

Remarkably, not a single morning was spoiled by rain this season—a rare blessing for this time of year, making the work that much smoother.

Denise always needs volunteers, so keep an eye out for her call towards the end of the year. It’s a rewarding way to give back and connect with the community.

With best wishes from Denise:
"Look forward to seeing you next time at Eddie’s Van."

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

As we move further into the year, I’d like to take a moment to highlight some important updates and opportunities within our club.

Please take a moment to read through this week’s bulletin thoroughly, as it includes several key updates and requests for volunteers. There are also opportunities to engage with other clubs, strengthening the connections that make Rotary such a dynamic and impactful organisation.

Key Highlights:

• Volunteer Opportunities & Events: Check the events list for upcoming activities, including ways to get involved with both local service projects and regional initiatives. These are great chances to meet members from other clubs while making a tangible impact.

• Celebrating Our Members' Work: We continue to be inspired by the incredible work being done by our members. From local community service to international projects, this bulletin features several stories worth reading.

• Testimonial Dinners: Planning is underway for Dr Keith Watts' testimonial dinner, and we’re also awaiting a date from Denise Schellbach for her event, once she can take some time from her busy schedule.

• New Members – Don’t Miss Out! If you’re new to the club, make sure to check out information on the District Conference and other upcoming events. There are grants available to help with costs, so read on to find out how to apply.

• The GIST Newsletter: Keep an eye on your inbox for the GIST newsletter. It’s full of updates, stories, and opportunities for you to stay connected with the wider Rotary community.

Rotary Youth Exchange – Host Families Needed

We are excited to share an opportunity to support the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. We are currently looking for members willing to host Venezuelan exchange students. Our very own Juan Renato Laporta is eager to help facilitate this initiative, and we’ve also received a request from Johnatan Teran, a Rotary Caracas member and Action Plan Champion for District 4370, who is hoping to find a welcoming host family here.

If you are interested in opening your home and heart to an exchange student, please reach out—we’d love to hear from you.

District 9620 Conference – Toowoomba, 28-30 March 2025

A quick reminder about the upcoming D9620 District Conference at the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba. While I’ll be sharing the official letter separately, I want to remind everyone that our club will be hosting the Kids & Carers Room at the conference. This is a wonderful way for us to support families attending the event, and we’ll be looking for volunteers to help out once the registration link goes live.

As we reflect on the first half of the Rotary year, I want to thank you all for your dedication and support. Our meetings are not just about discussions—they’re about action. Whether it’s through volunteering, connecting with other clubs, or supporting initiatives like the Youth Exchange, every contribution makes a difference.

Let’s continue to build on this momentum and make the rest of the Rotary year as impactful as possible.

Kind regards,
Angela Murphy
President, Rotary Club of Brisbane

For those who missed or valued the recent Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) courses in our district, the Learning Centre offers a wealth of leadership training. These courses are designed by Rotary International to empower members with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead effectively within the club and beyond.

The Rotary Learning Centre is an invaluable resource for all Rotarians—whether you're new to the club or a long-standing member. Accessible online through Rotary International's Learning Centre, this platform offers a wide range of courses tailored to enhance your Rotary experience, develop leadership skills, and deepen your understanding of Rotary’s global impact. 

Why Should You Engage with the Learning Centre?

1. For New Members:
   The Learning Centre is an excellent introduction to Rotary's structure, values, and opportunities. It helps new members quickly acclimate to the organisation, understand how clubs operate, and discover ways to get involved in meaningful service.

2. For Long-Term Members:
   Rotary is constantly evolving, with new initiatives, leadership strategies, and global projects being introduced. Even seasoned members will find value in the latest courses, keeping them up-to-date with Rotary’s direction and offering fresh perspectives on service and leadership.

Mark Williams, a dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Brisbane and 9620 District Governor Elect, is currently attending the 2025 Rotary International Assembly in Orlando, Florida. This prestigious event brings together Rotary leaders from around the world to prepare for the upcoming Rotary year, share ideas, and strengthen connections across districts.

From 2025-2026, Rotary International will no longer launch an annual presidential theme. This decision, made by the RI Board of Directors in October 2023, is part of a move to simplify and standardise Rotary’s branding and communication.

Presidential themes were originally meant for internal use to inspire members, but many clubs and districts began using them publicly, leading to inconsistent messaging. With themes changing every year—and some clubs preferring older ones—this created confusion about Rotary’s focus and identity. Simplifying Rotary branding is always a good idea, and this change will help present a clearer, unified message to the public.

And while we’re at it, maybe we Rotarians can break the habit of using acronyms for everything too—because let’s be honest, that’s just as confusing!

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

Happy New Year! I’ve missed the Club and all of you over the break, and I can’t wait to catch up in person this coming Monday, 3 February, for a WELCOME AND WELCOME BACK casual social meeting at 5:30 PM at Friday’s Riverside. It’ll be a great way to ease into the year, reconnect, and welcome potential new members. Click the meetings listed below for more details and to register or send apologies, and scroll down to see who’s speaking at upcoming events.

🫵 Members have been allocated meetings to chair and other responsibilities, scroll down (down down down all the way to the bottom of the bulletin) to Commitments to see what yours are - if you can't - please find someone who can.

Even though it may have seemed like a quiet break, Rotary never really stops—so I want to take a moment to acknowledge all the members and friends of Rotary who have been working and volunteering over the summer break on various projects, tasks, and initiatives. So much of what we do happens behind the scenes, and it only works because of your dedication and efforts—thank you! 

A special shoutout to Denise Schellbach for her ongoing work with Eddie’s Van, and to all those who helped out at RARE last Saturday—your commitment to service truly embodies the Rotary spirit. These volunteer efforts (and more) will be featured in the next bulletin, so stay tuned!

📌 Upcoming Board Meeting – 10 February
The first Board Meeting of the year will be held on Monday, 10 February, after our lunch meeting. If you’d like to submit a motion, please click the meeting link for more details. Your input is always valued!

As we step into the second half of my term as President, I am committed to focusing on Rotary causes, people, and events—ensuring we not only attract new members but also create an environment where they stay engaged. At the same time, I want to recognise and support our existing members by ensuring our meetings and activities are meaningful and rewarding. Most importantly, we have some fantastic projects to complete, and I’m looking forward to seeing them through with all of you.

On a personal note, I had a wonderful time in New Zealand over Christmas and New Year, catching up with family and friends. Right now, Miles and I are deep in work on a commercial project, so I truly appreciate the support of our incredible Club members while I focus on that for the next couple of weeks.

I look forward to seeing many of you on Monday 3 February at 5:30 pm —let’s start the year off with great conversations, laughter, and a shared vision for the months ahead!

Rotary Regards
Angela Murphy
2024/25 President, Rotary Club of Brisbane

People of Action know that achieving any vision, big or small, requires a plan.

Rotary International pioneered a model of service leadership more than a century ago based on person-to-person connections. That model is just as powerful today as ever. Except now, those individual connections span the globe. Today's Rotary doesn't just reach out to act on communities' needs close to home; we transcend borders, generations, languages, cultures, and historic differences to create hope for a better world.

When we imagined where Rotary is going in the next 100 years, we developed a plan built on four priorities: increasing our impact, expanding our reach, enhancing participant engagement, and increasing our ability to adapt.

Watch the video, read more and learn about the Action Plan Toolkit for Clubs here

Dear reader

It's been an action packed week, I want to acknowledge the dedication and energy that make our projects and initiatives thrive. Whether through leadership transitions, successful fundraising, or community-focused programs, the Rotary Club of Brisbane continues to make meaningful contributions. Here are the key highlights:

Leadership and Club Structure

Our ongoing leadership transition remains a priority. We’ve established a Nominating Committee, chaired by Keith Watts, to identify a President for 2025–26. We also formalised Keith’s appointment as Club Historian, recognising his outstanding work in preserving our legacy. Additionally, a mid-year update request was made for members overseeing international and local projects to ensure transparency and progress reporting.

Fundraising Success

The 50/50 Charity Raffle on Melbourne Cup Day was a tremendous success, raising approximately $36,000. Our club’s share is $4,000 —thank you to the volunteers who made it happen! We are also exploring additional opportunities to participate in 50/50 raffles with the Rotary Club of Hamilton. The upcoming Kyeema Raffle promises to be another impactful initiative, with further details to be shared ASAP.

Youth Empowerment and Community Impact

We are proud to sponsor a student for the Rotary Youth Transitional Seminar (RYTS), an impactful leadership program for high school students. The Teacher in a Box project, led by Dickson Ken, is in the process of being adopted as a formal club initiative, providing offline educational resources to underserved communities in Papua New Guinea. The board also approved the formation of a Rotary Youth Exchange Program Committee to facilitate cultural and educational exchanges, lead by Juan Laporta.

Engaging Initiatives

A dedicated Kids & Carers Room will debut at the 2025 District Conference, ensuring inclusivity for parents attending with young children. Thank you to District Governor Sue Mulraney for her support in making this happen. The initiative sets a precedent for future conferences, demonstrating our commitment to fostering inclusivity within Rotary.

Decisions Made

Key motions passed during the board meeting include:

• Kinross Scottish Ceilidh (Fair) Participation: Our club will join as part of the Kinross Cluster management committee and explore a fundraising stall, potentially selling haggis and tatties.
• Guest Speaker Recognition: VIP visitors and speakers will now receive a copy of our club history book, a token of our appreciation for their contributions.
• International Service Agreements: Agreements with inactive clubs will be reviewed and potentially retired.
• Autism Global Project: Member update in minutes to follow.
• Social Media and Marketing: Five marketing students under the guidance of Winnie Chen are assisting with social media efforts, aligning with a proposed campaign to attract younger members from the Brisbane CBD.
• Governance: Deadlines for board meeting documentation have been adjusted to streamline preparation and decision-making processes.

Acknowledgments

A special thanks to Keith Watts for his tireless contributions to International Service, overseeing vital projects and fostering meaningful partnerships. His work ensures our club’s global outreach continues to grow. Thanks are also due to all members who have supported fundraising, youth initiatives, and community engagement efforts.

Looking Ahead

Mark your calendars for these important dates:

• Monday, 2 December: QBI Breakthrough Project Update RSVP
• Monday, 9 December: AGM and our last meeting of the year RSVP + Christmas celebration drinks afterwards on the big terrace at Friday's
• Monday, 20 January 2025: First meeting of the new year RSVP
• 28–31 March 2025: District 9620 Conference in Toowoomba REGISTRATION

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the Rotary Club of Brisbane. Together, we are making a difference in our community and beyond. Let’s continue this momentum into the festive season and the new year ahead.

Angela Murphy
Chuffed to be 2024-25 President of the Rotary Club of Brisbane

As a Research Fellow in Neuroeconomics, Dr Dragan Rangelov investigates human sensory perception, decision-making and memory. His work explores how the brain processes and stores information that leads us to make decisions in all aspects of life. He does this by using techniques designed to measure and record brain activity, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging and by identifying patterns of neural activity associated with external sensory stimuli.

In this conversation, Dragan delves into various intriguing topics, including:

• The brain systems responsible for decision-making

• How neuroeconomics explores economic decision making

• Game theory and how it provides a platform for neuroeconomic studies

• Why we choose to purchase one thing over another

• The idea behind establishing a neuroeconomics research profile at UQ (Learn more about Rotary Queensland's QBI Breakthrough Project here).

Rotary Club of Brisbane Meeting Highlights – 18 November 2024
Celebrating New Beginnings and Insightful Conversations

🤝 Club Meeting Photo Album

The meeting, chaired by Area Governor and Vice President Bruce McNaught, was packed with inspiration, fellowship, and forward-looking initiatives. Here's the scoop:

The Induction of New Member Henry Pawa
A highlight of the day was the induction of our newest member, Henry Pawa, introduced by Dickson Ken.

Henry brings a wealth of experience as a political advisor to Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister and extensive academic achievements, including a Master's in Economics and International Trade. His dedication to governance and youth missions makes him an exceptional addition to our club.

In his first engagement, Henry will play a key role in presenting a 40-foot container of RARE medical and educational equipment in PNG next week—a testament to the impact of Rotary partnerships.

Welcome and Toasts
President Angela Murphy opened the meeting with a warm welcome to members, guests, and visiting Rotarian Luis Filardi Carneiro. Bruce led a heartfelt toast to King, Country, and Rotary International.

Speakers - Luis Filardi Carneiro (BSI Group & Rotary Club of Cleveland, Brisbane), Mechelle Nickelson (Club Med)

Visiting Rotarians - Luis Filardi Carneiro 

Visitor - Mike Speter

Speakers of the Day

1. Michelle Nickelson (Club Med)
   Michelle shared the fascinating origins of Club Med and its mission of joy and community. She also revealed the Club Med Raffle Prize - in partnership with Best Friends Travel :

   • A five-night stay for two at an Asian resort (Bali, Phuket, or Bintan) valued at $5,000+.
   • Proceeds will support the Kyeema Foundation.

2. Luis Filardi Carneiro (BSI Group) - pictured right with Angela Murphy
   More on him later in the bulletin

Mark Your Calendars

• Monday, 2 December: Important QBI update.
• Monday, 9 December: AGM and last meeting for 2024.
• Monday, 20 January: First meeting of 2025.
• 28–31 March 2025: District 9620 Conference (Toowoomba).

Thank you to everyone who made the meeting such a success. We look forward to seeing you next week for another round of Rotary inspiration!

The Rotary Foundation is the best steward for your money. Here’s why.

Rotary Club of Brisbane Meeting Highlights – 11 November 2024
Women and the Rotary Club of Brisbane

🤝 Club Meeting Photo Album

Our meeting kicked off with a warm welcome from President Angela Murphy, setting the stage for a vibrant afternoon. Vice President Bruce McNaught led us in a heartfelt reflection for Remembrance Day, followed by Chair Phil Gresham raising a toast to King, Country, and Rotary International.

The highlight of the day? The exceptional Dr Dorothy Watts AM (pictured left with her husband Dr Keith Watts), who captivated us with her groundbreaking research on the role of women in the Rotary Club of Brisbane. A rare and fascinating topic, her talk was both enlightening and inspiring—a true treat for all attendees! It's posted verbatim below.

We were honoured by the presence of special guests who joined us specifically for Dr Watts' presentation.
Visiting Rotarians:
Kim Brown, Michelle Davis, President David Frost (Paddington), President Ebony McNaugton, and Quinn Venz (Paddington Rotaract).

Visitors:
Lily Reichardt, Pauline Beames, and Caroline Gresham.

Though many sent their apologies, including Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, their spirit was felt in the room as we embraced fellowship and shared insights.

Thank you to all who attended for making this meeting a memorable one. Stay tuned for next week’s updates, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for upcoming events!

Exciting news for the Rotary Club of Brisbane! We’ve officially offered to host testimonial dinners for two of our much-loved members, Keith Watts and Denise Schellbach, in 2025. These events will be a wonderful opportunity to honour their incredible contributions to the club and the wider community.

SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER

As we approach the festive season, Miles, Silva, and I would love to invite our club members and their family to join us for a casual but Christmassy Christmas dinner at our home.

Click Online Registration MEMBERS - to RSVP

Can you bring some Christmas crackers or a sweet treat please? Click Online Registration BRING A CONTRIBUTION - if you'd like to help out and so we don't end up with 19 packets of scorched almonds (not that Miles would mind). There will be a special present under the tree for anyone who brings prawns!!! 🍤🍤🍤

🍾 BYO drinks

🎁 Please bring along a wrapped gift valued at around $20 for the present game (this year, to keep things interesting no bottles of wine please).

The Rotary Club of Brisbane was recognised with a sincere message of appreciation from John Leddy, President of the Rotary Club of Hamilton, for their role in the Melbourne Cup Day 50/50 raffle. This collaborative effort, driven by members of the Rotary Club of Hamilton, alongside the Rotary Club of Brisbane, the Rotary Club of Nundah, and a team of Paddington Rotaractors, proved to be a significant success. Photos of the day including Bruce's crazy lunch!

Rotary District 9620 extended its heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to the Rotary Club of Brisbane for their significant contribution to the End Polio Campaign. Gail Wallace, the District 9620 Rotary Foundation Secretary from the Rotary Club of Capalaba, acknowledged the club's generous donation of US$1,000 as part of the District 9620 End Polio Club Challenge.

We were honoured that Roslyn Teirney came in person to deliver an engaging invitation to all members of the Rotary Club of Brisbane, announcing that Coolangatta will be the host venue for the 2025 Rotary Pacific Zone Conference. The event is scheduled to take place from 31st October to 2nd November 2025.Roslyn encouraged all Rotarians and Rotaractors to attend, emphasising that everyone is welcome.

Speakers - Mac Millar (Kicks for Kids Foundation), Nick Sale (Morgans)

Visiting Rotarians - Roslyn Teirney (Grants Chair, Rotary International District 9830, Zone 8 Rotary Pacific 2025 Conference committee member), Ralph Teirney (Rotary Club of North Hobart), John Owens (Rotary Club of Thurso, Scotland), Sheena & Fraser MacGillivray (Rotary Scotland North 1010)

Visitors - Chantel Duffy, Sacha Millar, Bridget Hellawell, Mitchell Smith (all Kicks for Kids), Sasha Millar

🏆 See a rolling album our meeting photos here, including our Monday 4 November Evening Social Night Meeting - Trivia at The Regatta Hotel with Team Rad, there was 10 of us and we came 4th! 

• September 2024

  Dear Club President:

  On behalf of the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation, please accept this special 2023-24 banner recognition as an expression of our sincere appreciation for your members' generous support of the Annual Fund. Your club is distinguished from more than 36,000 Rotary clubs worldwide as being one or more of the following:

• One of only 1,520 clubs to achieve Top Three Highest in Per Capita Annual Giving honors in their district (only clubs with a minimum US$50 Annual Fund per capita contribution were eligible).

• One of only 3,800 clubs worldwide to attain status as an Every Rotarian, Every Year Club (clubs must have achieved a minimum Annual Fund contribution of US$100 per capita with every dues-paying member contributing US$25 or more to the Annual Fund during the Rotary year).

• One of only 4,600 clubs worldwide to become a 100% Foundation Giving Club (clubs must have achieved an average of US$100 in per capita giving and 100 percent participation, with every dues-paying member contributing at least US$25 to any gift designation during the Rotary year).

Kyeema Foundation: Empowering Papua New Guinea through Sustainable Practices

Celia Grenning and Ali Ume spoke highlighting The Kyeema Foundation's work in Papua New Guinea focuses on addressing food security, income generation, and environmental restoration by leveraging local resources and sustainable methods. Through programs like village chicken farming, coral gardening, and mangrove replanting, Kyeema aims to tackle the pressing challenges faced by rural communities, many of whom have been impacted by climate change, environmental degradation, and social issues. Their initiatives, which began in collaboration with Rotary in 2018, are designed to enrich the livelihoods of these communities by providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary for long-term self-sufficiency.

Click here to see a presentation of this talk and hit Read More for a summery 👇

Nigel Harris then took the floor to discuss the broader ambitions of the project and Rotary's role in raising $5 million to establish a Perpetual Chair of Neuroscience. He began by posing several fundamental questions to the audience—WHY this project is important, WHY it will matter to people, WHY people will donate, and HOW Rotary can achieve such a significant fundraising target.

All motions were agreed to:

1. Membership Approvals:

   • Approved the membership application from Melanie Liu and Henry Pawako and directed the secretary to proceed with the right of approach.

2. Casual Vacancy:

   • Appointed Bruce McNaught as secretary for 2024-25 to fill the casual vacancy created by the resignation of Peter Saxby from the board.

3. Teacher in a Box Contribution:

   • Proposal to fund one or two Teacher in a Box units at $350 each. Noted that Dickson Ken is purchasing one unit to take to PNG in mid-September, and it would be impactful for the club to match this contribution.

4. Donation to Russell Island State School:

   • Approved a donation of $275 to Russell Island State School to cover bus costs for underprivileged students to attend Tennis Queensland’s “Schools Future Fit” Program at the Pat Rafter Arena on 10th September.

5. Support for Domestic Violence Prevention Initiative:

   • Approved a remittance of $300 to the Rotary Club of Beenleigh to assist with the purchase of Zone Domestic Violence initiative T-Shirts for PNG Clubs.

Queensland Breakthrough Project - To mark Rotary Queensland's Centenary, we're teaming with Rotary Clubs across the state to raise funds for a perpetual chair and research in Neuroscience at the University of Queensland Brain Institute (PDG Tim Keeler)***Major announcement pending***

RARE aka Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment  - A volunteer-based recycling facility collecting and redistributing medical and educational goods. We often need hands to help pack containers of medical equipment and school supplies to send to Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands etc (IPP Phil Saxby, Dickson Ken). 

Denver Fresser, CEO of HELP Enterprises, presented a report to the Rotary Club of Brisbane, highlighting the significant role the club played in HELP’s early success. In the 1960s, the Rotary Club of Brisbane was instrumental in initiating support for inclusive workshops for people with disabilities. Through the efforts of John Russell and Wallace Bishop, the club raised AU$500,000—equivalent to $7,353,260.87 in today’s terms. This substantial funding was crucial in establishing HELP’s permanent base at Eagle Farm, where the organisation continues to operate.

Maria's Greek parents immigrated to Albury, Australia and we are very fortunate that Maria moved from Melbourne to Brisbane and decided to join us at Rotary Club of Brisbane. Maria has also lived in Mexico and loved Mexico's vibrancy and the happy culture of the people she met there. 

Maria is a highly experienced Brisbane based Casting Director with over 20 years of experience under her belt. She was co-founder of 2 leading Melbourne casting agencies:  2 Divas and Chameleon Casting.

In addition to her casting work, Maria is the director and founder of Brave Studios, a highly respected acting school known for its exceptional training programs. Her passion for nurturing talent and bringing out the best in actors has earned her a solid reputation in the entertainment community.

Maria’s network extends from Brisbane to the Gold Coast and beyond, giving access to top-notch studios, cutting-edge casting tools, and a pool of incredibly talented actors along the east coast of Australia.

She is a strong advocate for equal representation and diversity in the Australian film and creative industries and is passionate about  creating a safe and nurturing environment where she can get the best out of actors in every audition.

Robyn Hilton and Allison Scifleet may never have become firm friends had it not been for their involvement in fundraising for dementia research. Both women understand what it is like to care for a loved one with dementia. With more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia and no cure (yet), Robyn and Allison are determined to raise awareness in the community and vital funds for research. All while having as much fun as possible!  

In this delightful conversation, Robyn and Allison share:  

• What inspired one woman’s annual tribute to her late husband 
• The serendipitous moment that led the other to QBI 
• The challenges of caring for someone with dementia 
• How bringing dementia out of the shadows helps families 
• How they tackle fundraising fatigue and the flow-on effect of doing good

Listen to the podcast via this link 

Teagan Hood, a Peace Fellow sponsored by the Rotary Club of Brisbane, has safely arrived in Sweden to begin her studies. Teagan expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the club’s support, which contributed to making this opportunity possible. She is currently exploring the local sights before classes begin and is meeting with her Rotary Host family, who will help her connect with the local Rotary groups.

Teagan's journey highlights the impact of Rotary's global programs, and we are proud to support her as she embarks on this exciting new chapter. Stay tuned for more updates from Teagan as she continues her studies abroad.

On Tuesday, August 13th, the Kinross Cluster of Rotary District 9620 came together for a special evening of fellowship and recognition, replacing our usual Monday lunchtime meeting. The event, hosted by Hamilton Rotary Qld and attended by members from Brisbane Airport, Brisbane High-Rise, and the Rotary Club of Brisbane, saw around 70 Rotarians gather for an informative and enjoyable night.

District Governor Sue Mulraney

District Governor Sue Mulraney was keen to learn about the club's recent activities, and the evening provided a perfect opportunity for members to share updates and celebrate achievements. The delicious food added to the warm atmosphere, despite the rainy weather outside.

A highlight of the evening was the induction of Maria Efthymiopoulos into the Rotary Club of Brisbane, marking the beginning of her Rotary journey.

District Governor Sue Mulraney, Maria Efthymiopoulos, Angela Murphy

The night also saw the presentation of Rotary Lifetime Achievement Awards to two distinguished Rotarians. Past President Dan Adler had the honor of presenting these prestigious awards to Graeme Whitmore, a four-time president of the club and long-time board member, and Cherryl McNaught, a past president of the Albany Creek club, both recognized for their significant contributions to Rotary.

Past District Governor Wendy Protheroe was among the distinguished guests, and the event was chaired by Terry Rogers. The venue provided a cozy setting for this memorable evening, which strengthened bonds and celebrated the spirit of Rotary.

Progress Update from Kavieng, Papua New Guinea: Local Leadership in Action

The recent training session in Kavieng, Papua New Guinea, held in July 2024, marks a significant step forward in Kyeema's locally-led program. Under the guidance of Kyeema’s PNG Program Manager, Ali Ume, the initiative is now being fully implemented by local leaders, showcasing the community's commitment to sustainable development.

One of the highlights of the visit was the construction of a second Master Farmer chicken house, built entirely with local resources in anticipation of the training. This achievement reflects the community's proactive approach and readiness to embrace new agricultural practices.

This program, entirely funded by Rotary to date, owes its progress to the support of the Rotary Club of Brisbane and the Rotary Club of Moorestown. Their contributions have been vital in empowering local communities to build sustainable livelihoods.

The Rotary Club of Brisbane has been a proud supporter of the  Kyeema Foundation, a Brisbane-based not-for-profit organisation since November 2018. The project we are supporting involves the breeding and conservation of indigenous village chickens in Papua New Guinea (PNG). RCOB initially supported set-up of a village chicken farm for Haus Pikinini in Wau, Morobe Province, which is a community home that looks after 30 children from the local community who have no-one to provide for them. We supported the set-up of the chicken shed and yard, purchase of local chickens for breeding and training in village chicken keeping. Kyeema are still providing support to Haus Pikinini with the management of their chickens.

In April 2020, RCOB provided a donation of A$3,980 to support setting up of another village chicken farmer in Gabagaba village. Kopure Airi (Kopsi) was trained as a Master Farmer in Fiji in October 2019. Since then, he has returned to his village in Gabagaba, Central Province and with funds provided by RCOB, has been set up as a Master Farmer of village chickens for his community. The picture below shows the chicken house built and stocked using Rotary funds as part of this project.

The RCOB support is part of a larger project being supported with funds from the Australian Government’s NGO Cooperation Program, which means that every dollar provided by RCOB has been matched by an additional five dollars from the Australian government.

This project also includes support of community-led no fish zones and coral reef gardening activities. One of the nutrition problems faced by coastal communities is that of reef degradation, reducing available protein sources. The solution for the reef is a rebuilding and re-seeding process, but this takes time and requires that the reef become a no-fish zone for an extended period of time. Without a replacement source of protein, this would potentially result in malnutrition. This is where village chickens come into play. They provide an alternative food source and livelihood activity while the reef is being mended.

And just like that …. It’s done. The Centenary Gala was a wonderful evening that simply could not have happened without the help, effort and support of the many people, businesses and organisations who decided to lean in and make it a night to remember.

From the pink velvet ropes to the stunning venue, glittering guests and dancing till midnight it was a magical night and fitting way to celebrate 100 years of Rotary in Australasia. The Rotary Club of Brisbane would like to thank those who attended, those who made financial and auction contributions, those who bid on the auctions, those who braved the stage to inform, encourage and inspire the audience, Galabid, W Brisbane and their team, Richard O’Leary from Event Photography and who could forget the spectacular Ben Trigger?

Together we raised about $15,000 for Jelly Beans via Open Doors which enables them to continue their critical work supporting vulnerable young people in the Brisbane area. We also raised over $17,500 for PolioPlus which, matched with a 2 for 1 contribution from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and a 50% match from the RI Foundation World Fund, will supply as many as 175,000 doses of polio vaccine to children who would otherwise be susceptible to this debilitating disease. The auction of a Painting by PNG artist Serge Ahwong from the Hebouhebou (join together and talk) series raised $600 for the Kyeema Foundation which conducts chicken breeding and reef restoration projects to promote better nutrition in PNG.

Click here for the Centenary Gala photos.

This new service will offer a wide spectrum of programs including inpatient admissions and an outpatient clinic focussing on supporting babies and families to have the best start in life.

In recognition of the Club’s gift, the Mater will establish the Rotary Club of Brisbane – Best Start Grant to provide professional development for staff who will work in the service to further their knowledge base and expertise in infant and perinatal mental health.

The project involving renovations to an existing heritage building and a new build for inpatient admissions will commence in January, 2021.

27 Rotarians were at DIK last Saturday 23^rd June.