A Year of Service, Friendship and Community

The 2025–2026 Rotary year was one of steady service, quiet achievement and strong community spirit. While it may have been, as Fraser Ellis described, "a funny old year" with fewer formal meetings, the club continued to make a meaningful difference both locally and internationally.

Internationally, the club supported the investigation into establishing a maternity and child hospital in the Pacific Islands while continuing its commitment to the global fight to eradicate polio. Although only Pakistan and Afghanistan continue to report cases of wild polio, the recent detection of the virus in wastewater in Perth served as a reminder that Rotary's decades-long commitment remains as important as ever. Members also maintained their support for ShelterBox, with exciting opportunities emerging for a future club ambassador to receive specialist training in England.

Closer to home, the Projects Team was as busy as ever. Colin Mackintosh once again led the maintenance of Mosgiel's colourful planter boxes, ensuring the town looked its best throughout the seasons despite the occasional setback from vandalism. Rotary volunteers also continued their long-standing support of the Silverstream Planting Group, working alongside local schools and community organisations to plant thousands of native trees, while contributing to the ongoing enhancement of Rotary Park.

The annual Book Sale remained one of the club's flagship fundraising events. Countless hours were spent collecting, sorting and organising thousands of donated books before another successful sale, demonstrating the remarkable commitment of both Rotarians and community volunteers. Behind the scenes, the regular book sorting team ensured a constant flow of quality books was ready for the next event.

The club's community involvement extended well beyond fundraising. Members restored the Rotary Millennium Bus Shelter, refreshed the town's iconic Christmas Tree, supported Airport Poppy Day collections, helped deliver the RYDA Youth Driver Awareness programme, managed parking for the hugely successful Wingatui Carnival, and joined the well-attended Saddle Hill Hike. Every project reflected Rotary's willingness to roll up its sleeves and help wherever needed.

Behind every successful project was the dedication of members who quietly kept the club operating. From managing meetings, catering, attendance, technology, ClubRunner, finances and speaker programmes, to ensuring everyone enjoyed fellowship at each gathering, Club Service once again demonstrated that strong administration is the backbone of a successful Rotary club.

Throughout the year, one theme remained constant—teamwork. Whether planting flowers, sorting books, supporting international projects or simply sharing a meal after a meeting, members continued to embody Rotary's motto of Service Above Self. Together they strengthened their community, supported people around the world and built lasting friendships, laying a strong foundation for another successful year ahead.

This version reads as a concise annual review that could be included in your club bulletin or annual report.

Here's a polished version as a short paragraph:

During the past year, the Trust was pleased to support 17 community funding applications, distributing approximately $35,000 to local organisations and initiatives. This was in addition to around $9,000 contributed towards the Rotary Foundation, the Polio eradication programme, and the provision of school dictionaries. While many funding requests were relatively modest, the Trust was proud to make a major contribution of $10,000 to the Tunnel Trails Trust, the principal beneficiary of the year's Book Sale proceeds. Members are encouraged to continue identifying worthwhile community projects and organisations that could benefit from Trust funding, ensuring we continue to make a positive difference throughout our community.

If you'd like, I can also make it sound more like a President's Annual Report or an AGM presentation.

Once again this year, members will have the opportunity to support our Lily Bulb fundraising project. Bulbs will be available from August, with more information to follow.

Prime Minister Luncheon to Launch New Annual Rotary Fundraiser

The Rotary Clubs of Dunedin are proud to host the inaugural Prime Minister Luncheon on 24 September, marking the beginning of what is planned to become a signature annual fundraising event for the city.

This year's luncheon will bring together community leaders, businesses, and supporters to hear directly from the incumbent Prime Minister about the priorities shaping New Zealand's future. More than a luncheon, the event is an opportunity for Dunedin to connect with national leadership while supporting projects that will leave a lasting local legacy.

Funds raised from the inaugural event will contribute to the development of children's play spaces at the new Dunedin Hospital Outpatients facility, helping create a welcoming and comforting environment for young patients and their families. Proceeds will also support the continued enhancement of Rotary Park, ensuring this valued community space can be enjoyed for generations to come.

The Rotary Clubs of Dunedin look forward to establishing the Prime Minister Luncheon as an annual tradition—one that combines informed discussion with meaningful community impact, bringing people together to invest in Dunedin's future.