Fellow Rotarians, Partners, and Friends,
What a remarkable season it has been for the Rotary Club of Sydney. The past several weeks have reminded me just how powerful our collective energy and compassion can be. From honouring our nation’s heroes to celebrating 105 years of service, April and May have truly been a season of purpose.
Honouring Sacrifice on ANZAC Day
We began with a deeply moving ANZAC Tribute on 21 April, followed by our proud tradition – the ANZAC Day BBQ in Hyde Park. Once again, our volunteers manned the grills with incredible spirit, representing Rotary at its community‑best. Thank you to every single person who turned up, served, and stood in remembrance.
A Gala to Remember – 105 Years of Rotary Sydney
Our 105th Anniversary Gala in the Strangers’ Dining Room was nothing short of extraordinary. It was my personal honour to escort Her Excellency the Governor of NSW, the Hon Margaret Beazley AC KC, to the stage. Her speech – witty, warm, and deeply compassionate – resonated with every person in the room. We were also deeply grateful for the inspiring recorded messages from the Premier and our Vocational Service Award winner, Richard Glover, introduced by PP Mark Dyer.
Celebrating Those Who Make a Difference
The evening shone brightest when we recognised quiet heroes making tangible change:
- Paul Harris Fellow Award: In a truly joyful, spontaneous moment, Mr. Dennis Wilson was surprised with a Paul Harris Fellow Award – a complete surprise to both Dennis and Her Excellency. It was a highlight none of us will forget.
- Community Peace Award: Introduced by PP Charli Allen, this award went to Rosanna Barbero, CEO of the Addison Road Community Organisation, with the certificate presented by Her Excellency.
- Rotary Community Service Award: Introduced by VP Roger Xie and presented by Her Excellency to Peter Davey from One Meal, recognising his many years of dedicated service.
Investing in the Future – Scholarships & Research
We also reaffirmed our commitment to education and peace:
- Peace Fellow Scholarships: PP Charli Allen introduced us to Peace Fellows Essan Dileri and Mark Panayiotis Notaras, and we proudly acknowledged our 2026 Rotary Peace Fellow Scholarship winner, Tamkin Hakim, who was in the audience.
- Rotary Soukup Award Scholarships: PP Geoff Wilbow provided an important update on these vital scholarships. Up until now we have already supported 26 indigenous Students to complete their University degrees.
- Rotary Joan Salter Award: PP Glenn Stafford shared a fascinating update. Past winners Melissa Abu‑Gazaleh (Top Blokes) and Tanya Taylor (BeCentre) joined us to discuss their separate research projects. Please stay tuned – the winners of the 2026 Joan Salter
Finally, I would like to thank our entertainers of the night: The NSW Police Band; Singers Tina Gao and Charli Arkle whom performed an original score "We are Australia' this Music Video and Song, was produced by our Youth Chair, Jon-Claire Lee. And last but not lest the Sydney Rotary satellite Club's - Trident Choir for their colourful and passionated performance.
Looking Ahead – Citizenship Ceremony, 19th May
We carry this momentum into our next meeting on Tuesday, 19th May, at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel (Cellos Room). In partnership with the Department of Home Affairs, we will welcome 20 new Australian citizens. It is one of the most meaningful events we host, and I look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate the hopes and dreams of our newest fellow Australians.
Service continues. Celebration unites us. And our best work is always ahead.
Yours in Rotary,
