At a regular meeting of the Rotary Club of Brisbane last year, an unexpected but serendipitous encounter set the stage for international goodwill. Jon Lieberg, a visiting Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Temecula, California, happened to attend while Celia Grenning was giving an update on the Club’s long-standing support of the Kyeema Foundation and its work in Papua New Guinea (PNG). What followed is a testament to the enduring power of Rotary’s global network and the friendships it fosters. Fast forward a few months, and Jon’s casual visit turned into something far more meaningful.Following his journey through PNG and a successful summit of Mt. Giluwe—where he famously hiked in borrowed gum boots he dubbed “clown shoes”—Jon returned to his home club inspired. He shared his Rotary experiences in Brisbane, including our tradition of toasting the King at each meeting, and presented the Kyeema Chicken and Coral Project to the Temecula Rotary’s International Committee. The result? A generous US$1,000 donation to support Kyeema’s community development work in PNG.
In Celia’s words, “We received US$1,000 from Jon who came to a club lunch and then went on to PNG. We’ve sent the Temecula Club a receipt and will keep them informed of the Kavieng project activities.”
Jon’s updates while he was down under continued to warm our hearts—from navigating flight cancellations due to bird strikes, to hiking Mount Kosciuszko and visiting Tasmania’s Female Factory, an experience he described as “incredibly impactful, similar to visiting Auschwitz in the sorrow it brings.” Throughout his journey, he embraced the Aussie spirit with a new mantra: “She’ll be fine mate—no worries.”
He concluded his travel notes with a typically Rotarian outlook: “It has been a wonderful trip meeting wonderful people every place I went. Our International Committee met on Monday and voted to initially contribute $1,000 US to the project. Who knows, this may give me an excuse to return to Brisbane and PNG!”
His heartfelt email closed with warm regards to our members and praise for our Club’s centenary book, which he received during his visit. “It is apparent you have a Club of great accomplishments and service. It is also apparent that under your leadership you are having a great year.”
Jon’s story is a beautiful reminder of what Rotary stands for: international understanding, goodwill, and service above self. His gift not only supports a cause dear to our Club, but also symbolises the far-reaching bonds we share as Rotarians.
To our friends in Temecula, we thank you. And to Jon—your stories, generosity, and enduring spirit are always welcome back at our table. Here's to many more “Rotary moments” ahead.
