Rotary Inspires Environmental Action Across the Bay of Plenty
At the Rotary International Convention held in Calgary in June 2025, Rotarians were encouraged to “Focus on Action” and “Tell the Rotary Story.” That message is already being put into practice in New Zealand, with local clubs taking the lead on environmental initiatives.
Colin Scobie, Director of ESRAG (Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group) in Australia, recently connected with Carmen Goodwin, Rotary Community Group Lead for the Bay of Plenty. Carmen coordinated the Footprint for Our Future (FFOF) initiative, held from September 8–14, which brought together community members and Rotary clubs for a week of environmental engagement.
A highlight of the event was its lineup of distinguished speakers, including Professor Chris Battershill from the University of Waikato’s Coastal Science Department, alongside the companion event Healing Our Waters.
“It was an outstanding success to have the community and local Rotary clubs participate in an event like this,” said Ms Goodwin.
While visiting the Bay of Plenty in early October, Mr Scobie attended the FFOF post-event review and delivered a presentation titled Rotary Beyond the Club, reflecting Rotary International’s current emphasis on sharing its story and expanding its reach beyond traditional club activities.
The presentation generated strong interest, prompting Tauranga Sunrise Rotary President Shiv Thammalla to invite Mr Scobie to speak at a club meeting soon after. His insights inspired members to explore new ways to create positive change across their communities.
In recognition of the collaboration, Footprint for Our Future has become a Bronze Sponsor of the ESRAG booth at the upcoming Rotary Zone 8 Oceania Regional Governors Institute, to be held on the Gold Coast later this year. The event will attract over 400 Rotary leaders from across the region, amplifying the Bay of Plenty’s environmental message on an international stage.
Rotarians and community members interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out to their local Rotary clubs across District 9930, which encompasses the Rotary clubs of the Bay of Plenty.
