District Governor Visit  - July 17, 2023

 

Ineke was welcomed by Pres Shane Forth together with Geoffrey, and members and guests from our two Rotary Clubs.

After a belated “Clanger” award to Robin for being unable to reach the pedals of his new Harley, Deb Kempton presented Rotary information on Women in Rotary.

It is hard to believe in today’s world that until 1989, Rotary bylaws prohibited women for joining Rotary. In 1978 the Rotary Club of Duarte in California tried to induct three women and subsequently last their charter! Subsequent legal action and appeals court decisions upheld the position of the Duarte club. The RI constitution was changed in 1989, and as they say, the rest is history!

(Indeed, the Rotary Club of Geraldton Greenough was the first club to induct a female member. Looking back over the last three decades it is impossible to believe Rotary could have remained relevant and vibrant without the contribution and leadership of its female members! -Ed)

Western Australia is now one Rotary district. The number 9423 was selected to reflect the year of inauguration, but in reality, we are now “Rotary Western Australia”!

A structural transformation is underway with a solid District Leadership Team. In order to strengthen our clubs to grow Rotary, Training Club Developers have been appointed to assist. (These were formerly known as Assistant Governors)

Our World President, R Gordon R McInally is a Scotsman, and his theme is “Create Hope in the World”. His call to action emphasises promoting peace and focusing on Mental Health.

Ineke recognised clubs in Rotary WA have many different styles but urged clubs to be member centric. Ask the questions, why are you in Rotary? Are you happy and are your fellow members happy? Diversity is key as well, not only First Nations people, but we have migrants and refugees from all over the world! Growing clubs is like growing trees! We must take notice of environmental and climate change to adapt. Our clubs need to reflect our local communities.  

Areas to be focused on this year include Mental health first aid, our youth projects. Youth exchange is back! The pillars remain: The Four Way Test stays! Rotary Foundation is the engine of Rotary. Polio Plus remains a high priority. Promoting peace and tolerance, fighting domestic violence, understanding First Nations. September 21 is World Peace Day. Youth protection is vital, a Youth Protection Summit is to be held on August 28.

What’s next? The Main Event in Forrest Place will replace next years District Conference. We are bringing Rotary to the people with 50-60 Rotary information stalls and all clubs are invited to contribute. This is planned for Saturday April 13 and will also incorporate “Walk for a Cause”.

Ineke encouraged us to read her regular Friday email newsletter to keep us up to date with what is happening in the District, and we are invited to contribute as well. Ask yourself, “How is my Adventure in Rotary Going?”