By the time you are reading this, most clubs will have completed their changeovers, either via zoom or a hybrid -zoom and live function or even some clubs deferring the celebrations to a time in the future once we are all allowed to meet again. Covid19 restrictions are currently different in parts of our district but I can only strongly recommend that you follow Government regulations so we can protect our Rotarians, our communities, friends and families.
The club changeover happens once the clock strike midnight 1 July, Chicago time regardless as to whether you have a changeover ceremony or not. At the stroke of midnight, a new team is managing each club on behalf of its members under the leadership of the Club President for 2020/2021.
The District Changeover was held as a Zoom celebration on the 28th June. It was well attended and enjoyed by those present. Past District Governor Merv Williams handed over the Governorship from immediate Past District Governor Adrian Froggatt to me. I would like to pass on my thanks to Immediate Past District Governor Adrian for his guidance and leadership in 2019-2020 year. The whole function was broadcast to the District without error and the presentation of awards was seamless and I can say it was due the crew behind the cameras namely Barry Thomas, Rob Cook, Tim and Jane Moore who helped make the first district zoom changeover so memorable.The role of District Governor is one of tremendous honour and something I feel extremely privileged to be doing. The most important component of Rotary is each individual member. Clubs would not be able to function effectively or achieve their goals without each member’s commitment. I will not take my role lightly and intend to work hard to do the very best I can in the name of Rotary. I have an experienced and dedicated District team who are “at your service”.
Our Clubs have no doubt been in planning mode for some time due to the requirements of the restrictions and are being challenged in how to stay active in this new environment. I am interested in hearing
from our clubs ongoing work, objectives, goals and how the members are feeling, as I meet with board members and attend your meetings as a guest. I know that many projects are continuing or are ready to proceed once we can meet in person. Please send in your stories and achievements so I can include them in the District newsletter, email the editor Stephen on newsletter@rotary9820.org.au.
All your stories are worthy, we are all People of Action and we need to hear about the work that’s happening on the ground in District 9820. It is your chance to show off your club's projects.I take this opportunity to introduce my partner Linda, who is a past President of Hastings Westernport Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Society member and passionate Rotarian. Linda has selected Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM) as her partner project and hopes to raise funds for the "End Malaria in Vanuatu - For Good" project. We know that malaria brings unnecessary suffering, developmental delays in children, and huge economic losses to families already living close to the poverty line. Pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable to malaria.
Thank you, everyone, please stay safe, keep connected and remember what we do Changes People’s Lives.
Mark
