Please check the roster for the next few weeks and advise Vicki and David Ungar if you will be away that week. Meeting jobs will be allocated via email before the meeting.
Jeremy Colohan, General Manager of the Mondrian Hotel spoke about the intense period since the opening of the hotel and noted their strong festive performance with five consecutive weeks at 92% occupancy. Jeremy outlined their 2026 goals centred on community engagement and local partnerships. They highlighted sponsorship of the Burleigh surf club, investment in a drone shark-identification program, family-and-friends’ rates for locals, and a luxury, food-and-beverage-driven brand positioning. Looking ahead, plans include deeper school engagement, chef visits to inspire future hospitality professionals, and strategic involvement in community events such as the Duck Race.
Our exchange student, Lucia from Argentina, shared her presentation introducing herself and her home, before outlining her goals for her year in Australia. Members were impressed by her confidence and maturity and we all look forward to getting to know Luci as the year progresses.
THIS WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER
Ariana King, from Kieser, will be our speaker this week. She will focus on low back pain and the fully funded strengthening programs that members may be able to take advantage of.
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WHAT'S THE BUZZ THIS WEEK?
Upcoming Events
Aztec Coolangatta Dinner - March 13th
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This week's meeting information
President Jo talked about the funeral and memorial service for Marion Jones, reflecting on her significant and lasting contribution to Rotary and the wider community. It was well attended by Rotarians, which is a testament to Marion’s commitment to Rotary. Jo also reminded everyone to read the email outlining what was discussed at the last board meeting.
Upcoming Events & Club News
The Pride of Work Awards will return in May. Stay tuned for more information and if you would like to be involved in the planning of the night, please see Jo or Vicki.
Thriving Clubs Seminar & Membership Growth
At the Thriving Clubs Seminar, discussions focused on growing membership through the concept of Companion Clubs – great for those that cannot make a breakfast meeting. Vicki Kersey will be exploring the concept further and will bring the results to the board for discussion.
Community Service & Project Updates
The club recently delivered 200 pairs of crutches to Brisbane, thanks to Mike Shambrook and Michael Cooper.
Interact Program
The Interact program at Marymount College continues to progress, now using a Square Reader and mobile phone to manage online transactions more efficiently.
Van & Scooter program Update
The club van has been recalled, and a meeting will be held to determine the future direction of the scooter program and related vehicles. Appreciation was expressed to John Clark for his work to increase the amount received from Adeco to replace the van.
Honouring Bill Bonner
Tony Heading reflected on the life and service of Bill Bonner, recognising his longstanding involvement in Rotary and the wider community. Bill’s contributions extended to the hospital board, Meals on Wheels, youth exchange and group study exchange programs - a legacy of service that touched many.
Duck Race Confirmed – Save the Date
The Duck Race has been confirmed for 21 November. Plans include two races, a stand-up paddleboard race, and a Dragon Boat display. Volunteers are needed for the organising committee. There are many small roles available, making it easy for members to contribute and be involved, even if you don't have a lot of time.
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Club runner information
If you do not have your Club Runner login information, you can go to the Club Runner website, scroll down a little and click on “Send me a Magic Link”. Enter the email address you gave to the club, and you will receive an email. Click on the login button and then select the club website. Go to ‘My Clubrunner’ and then ‘My Profile’. The ‘Edit’ button is at the top right and you can add/change any information on your profile. Click ‘Save’ and you’re done!
If you’re really feeling techy, you can download the Club Runner app.
If you would like any help resetting your password, or downloading the app to your phone, please let us know. There are a few members who can assist you.
We are looking to use Club Runner more for information and rosters, so it would be great if everyone is able to log in.
February is Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month
Rotary Blog
Community-led risk mapping: Building peace in conflict zones
By Jaefer Jemal Muhammed, a 2026 Rotary Peace Fellowship finalist, University of Bradford master’s degree program
In 2023, Fano militants intercepted the minibus I was traveling in near Merawi, Ethiopia, ransacking our belongings looking for weapons. I didn’t bear any arms, I wasn’t a soldier. I was a project manager tasked with building a gas station that will fuel ambulances and clinics, restoring essential services for more than 50,000 civilians amidst an ongoing conflict. In that moment of terror, staring down an AK-47, I realized peace isn’t created in conference halls alone. Sometimes it is forged on a road between two hostile towns when infrastructure is built to restore trust and dignity. Read more here.
Rotary Down Under
Meet the Rous RotaKids
By PDG Ken Hall. Rotary E-Club District 9660
The Rotary E-Club District 9660 is a small but remarkably active club, overcoming the geographical separation of its members through commitment and innovation. While the club supports a wide range of Rotary programs – including polio eradication, Youth Exchange, blood donation initiatives and domestic violence prevention – its core focus is nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Members place a strong emphasis on youth development, helping young people build teamwork, problem-solving, leadership and community-mindedness. Through hands-on guidance, they encourage students to take responsibility, honour commitments and contribute meaningfully to both people and the environment. Read more here.
Rotary News
E-club develops young leaders through online workshops
By Hannah Wallace
Khumbo Chilimira Ndovi, a 25-year-old university lecturer in Malawi, has impressive leadership credentials as an accomplished young professional in the southeastern African country. She also knows how to have fun for a cause.
As president of the Rotaract Club of Blantyre, Chilimira Ndovi organizes lively fundraisers like karaoke parties and trivia nights to raise money for blankets for babies born to mothers in need. Now, she’s thinking about how to make an even bigger impact. “I want to move on to a bigger project where we’re maybe building a hospital wing or where we’re building a library for a school,” she says.
To help her get there, Chilimira Ndovi found a mentor in a seemingly unlikely place... Find out where
Jeremy Colohan, General Manager of the Mondrian Hotel spoke about the intense period since the opening of the hotel and noted their strong festive performance with five consecutive weeks at 92% occupancy. Jeremy outlined their 2026 goals centred on community engagement and local partnerships. They highlighted sponsorship of the Burleigh surf club, investment in a drone shark-identification program, family-and-friends’ rates for locals, and a luxury, food-and-beverage-driven brand positioning. Looking ahead, plans include deeper school engagement, chef visits to inspire future hospitality professionals, and strategic involvement in community events such as the Duck Race.
Our exchange student, Lucia from Argentina, shared her presentation introducing herself and her home, before outlining her goals for her year in Australia. Members were impressed by her confidence and maturity and we all look forward to getting to know Luci as the year progresses.