Dear Rotarians and Friends,
Our Rotary Art Show is well underway, and I want to sincerely thank every member and volunteer who has contributed to making it such a success. From months of planning to hanging artwork, setting up the venue, welcoming guests, selling raffle tickets, working shifts and everything in between, this event simply would not happen without your dedication and willingness to serve.
Thank you to everyone who helped make Tuesday night's Gala Opening such a wonderful evening. It was a fantastic celebration of art, community and partnership. I had the pleasure of spending time with Kate from Youngcare, our club beneficiaries for this year, and hearing about the impact our fundraising has on the lives of young people with high physical support needs. It was a powerful reminder that our efforts extend far beyond the walls of the gallery.
A very special thank you to David, Dani, John Clark and Lyn. Thank you to Kathy and Anne (David and John, you have wives with golden hearts and hands). Leslie, Baz and Kerstin, our warm and welcoming greeters on the gala night. Toby, the Rotaractors and our peacefellows Becca, Igor and Camila, what a great job on the night serving drinks and food on top of helping setting-up and clean-up.
It warms my heart to see you all coming together in service. THANK YOU.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my own volunteer shifts this last week. There is something incredibly rewarding about helping someone find a piece of art they love, knowing that every sale helps raise funds for our two partner Rotary clubs and our beneficiaries. Behind every artwork sold is an opportunity to make a real difference in someone's life, and that is what makes this event so special.
The Rotaract clubs of Paddington and Brisbane Rivercity had their combined changeover this Sunday at the Gaythorne RSL. A great afternoon filled with heartfelt stories, games and fellowship. Congratulations to outgoing Presidents Callum and Gareth and welcome to new Presidents Jordan and Kimberley.
This Thursday, we will be holding our breakfast meeting at Moonyah Recovery Centre. I encourage everyone to join us as we keep strengthening our relationship with Moonyah.
It promises to be an inspiring morning, and I look forward to seeing you there.
I am also looking forward to welcoming Tommy Nyawir from Kenya next week as he begins his month-long Mirror of Hope fundraising tour across Australia.
Thank you all for your continued commitment, generosity and service. Whether it is volunteering at the Art Show, supporting our community partners or embracing new opportunities to make a difference, you continue to demonstrate the very best of Rotary.
Together, we are creating lasting impact.
Warm regards,
Mademoiselle President Valerie
President 2026-27.
