Rotary Club of Southbank Inc.

Helping Hoops

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

On the 31st August, we celebrated the end of winter with a special virtual guest, Clinton Meehan, from Helping Hoops to share some of the challenges that the organisation has faced since Covid19 hit our shores. Despite some huge challenges this team continue to provide support and encourage kids to get out and be active. As restrictions start to ease in the future, we look forward to being able to assist Helping Hoops with some hands-on projects and also attend their fundraising events. Watc...

2022 Rotary Convention will be in Houston

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 03:00:00 +0000

After two years of Rotary Virtual Conventions, there is a real chance that members will once again be able to attend this annual convention in Houston, USA, (combined with a virtual experience for those unable to make it.)To learn more about the event, go to Houston | Rotary Convention and also Houston RI Convention (houstonri2022.org) for the opportunity to be a part of the event.Although the following year, we know that Rotary Convention will return to Melbourne. The Hou...

Membership, Marketing and Club Service Workshop

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 02:00:00 +0000

(Now Online)

Join us for this annual event that is full of inspiring information and opportunities as these important roles come together.

We invite Membership Chairs, Communication & Public Image Chairs, Club Service Chairs, Bullet

Morning Tea with the DG

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 02:00:00 +0000

Impact for Women - Bags of Love Christmas Event

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

On the 5th December 2020, some of our members attended Impact for Women to assist with Christmas wrapping in their annual Bags of Love Christmas Event. Sadly we learned that almost 50 women and children have died at the hands of domestic violence this year - represented by a pair of shoes for each death. We added 5 new pairs of shoes to the line. Over 2000 women have escaped violence this year and they will be the recipients of the work we have done today. Impact is an amaz...

Southbank Christmas Function

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 22:00:00 +0000

It was with much joy that most of were able to come together in person on the 15th December to celebrate Christmas at our usual venue, The Belgian Beer Cafe. For many of us, this was the first time we were able to see each other in person since March and we started our night going around the table and saying what we were grateful for after a year of disruption. We were also joined virtually via zoom and were grateful for technology and our ability to connect. Judy Parslow, our Inter...

CEO Satellite Club of Southbank

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On the 24th November some of gathered in person at the Red Emporer Restaurant in Southbank, whilst some of us joined virtually via zoom and we inducted our new members of the CEO Satelite Club of Southbank.

With varying backgrounds and interesting stories this group have big ideas and are keen to get involved in projects that make a difference.

Welcome to the Southbank Rotary Family!

Oktoberfest 2020

Sat, 31 Oct 2020 03:00:00 +0000

Loops of Learning - Tracy Bell

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 01:00:00 +0000

On the 15th September 2020 we were joined by guest speaker, Tracy Bell who has just launched her new website Loops of Learning. Tracy is a creative, technology leader with a strong interest in how we build a culture of continuous learning that is able to embrace the challenges of the 21st century. She asked us 'What do you think is the biggest crisis of our time?' With inspiration from Ken Robinson ("Do schools kill creativity?") and Warren Berger (Author of 'A More ...

Rotary Citation with Platinum distinction

Sat, 19 Sep 2020 04:00:00 +0000

I am proud to announce that our club, Rotary club of Southbank, has been awarded the Rotary Citation with Platinum distinction for last year, 2019-2020! It was an exciting time to be President and I thank all club members for their support and contribution to our success! It was a team effort, let's continue the good work! The following is an explanation about Rotary citation from Grant Hocking, our immediate past District Governor: "The Rotary Citation recognizes Rotary clubs ...

Hackathon

Sat, 22 Aug 2020 01:00:00 +0000

Early this month, Elle Brooker presented at the Rotary Club of Southbank about 'hacking for change' to collaborate digitally to find innovative solutions to community issues. Broadly speaking, hacking is creative problem solving, it need not involve technology or have the aim of creating an app as an outcome. A hackathon is any event of any duration in which people come together to solve problems and most run parallel workshops, Elle said. Some of the goals of hackathons inclu...

Week 6 of the new Rotary year

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome to edition two of our newsletter. We are 6 weeks into the new Rotary year and 3 weeks (half-way) into Stage 4 lock-down in Melbourne, Victoria. The consensus is that this second round of lock-down has been harder on most than the first round. We are trying to provide some support to the community at this tough time by way of connection. One such initiative is the In Balance Wheels of Wellness Webinars that was launched at the start of round two of lock-down. Additionally, th...

Rotary in the Southbank News

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 02:00:00 +0000

Our own President, Jasmin was recently featured in the Southbank News talking about club and how we are supporting the community during lockdown

Check out the article here

Northside Trivia for Youth Homelessness

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On the 13th August 2020, members of the Rotary Club of Southbank, and our satellite club of Southbank Orbit joined the Rotary Club of Northside for their trivia night. It was a night of fun and laughs with prizes for the best dress-up and a well organised trivia competition with all proceeds going to Steps Outreach Service. There were a number of auctions with both Jasmin and Bishan successful in their bids including some Tupperware, which Jasmin donated back to the Steps Outreach Service. ...

Lilian's Kitchen

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Self-care is essential whilst we battle stage 4 restrictions in Victoria at the moment and we are all coming up with new ways to look after ourselves and learn something new. Our very own Lilian Ndarukwa has recently cooked up Chakalaka, a South African dish and it looks delicious. Try out her recipe below and let us know how you go! INGREDIENTS 4 Carrots, peeled, tailed and shredded
1 Green Bell Pepper
1 Red Bell Pepper
1 Sweet Onion (White Onion)
1 tsp Ginger, grated
1 t...

Toilet Warrior - Mark Balla

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 07:00:00 +0000

On the 11th Aug we had Mark Balla join us, better known as the Toilet Warrior. Mark is the current President of the Rotary Club of Box Hill Central. After a trip to India Mark's eyes were opened to the fact that most schools in India didn't have any toilets and this was preventing children, particularly girls from attending school. It was also causing concern for female teachers who had no bathroom to use the whole day.
At the RI Convention in Seoul in 2016 Mark was elected to t...

Centenary year begins

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

By Jasmin Dhillon, President Rotary Club of Southbank Welcome to the 2020/2021 Rotary year. It has been a challenging start to the year and we have been adaptable and responsive and looked for opportunities to be of service. We will continue to be of service and impact as needed. It is an exciting year ahead celebrating Rotary's Centennial year in Australia and New Zealand. Below are some examples of our recent impact: Together, we recently collaborated with the Rotary Club of N...

Orbiters Help Make Rotary Southbank

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

THE YOUNG LEADERS' COLLECTIVE A group of young Rotarians have banded together to form the ORBIT young leadership board, harnessing the power of diversity to transform the way they view and tackle social and community issues. The group of eight believe the blending of traditional Rotarian values with a progressive new approach, will form a solid foundation for conversation, commitment and collaboration. Rosie Prosenik, chair of Rotary Orbit says the new club aims to redefine the w...

Southbank Rotary Changover - 7th July 2020

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 04:00:00 +0000

On the 7th July we celebrated our changeover and welcomed in the new team for 20/21 including Jasmin Dhillon as President. Whilst we could not be together in person it was a fun event with many joining on zoom to celebrate. The date was also significant because it was exactly 2 years since Jasmin was also inducted in the club, along with our treasurer Lillian, who was one of the emcee's for the changeover night. There was a raffle prize, ...

May 50km - 500km

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 04:00:00 +0000

May is the month for raising money for MS research! There are over 25,600 Australians living with MS and MS Research Australia want to kiss goodbye to MS forever. The 30th May is MS Day and so the whole month is dedicated to moving to raise awareness and funds. The goal is 50km but you can change this to make sure it's a challenge. I personally am a long distance runner so I decided to up the ante and do 500kms for the month! A number of our Rotary Southbank members joined the Rotary ...

Interested in joining a club of Millennials?

Sat, 09 May 2020 03:00:00 +0000

Rotary has had a cherished history since 1905 in Chicago, USA and now has some 35,000+ individual clubs around the world, all uniquely different and all powered by a willingness to use its members' skills and passions to make a difference to the world we live in. Likewise, Rotary provides the power of networking with other individuals and clubs both locally and internationally to join leaders, share ideas and take action to make a difference. A recent innovation in Rotary is the con...

Taking a Leadership Approach Within Rotary Through a Time of Crisis

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 23:00:00 +0000

Who would have thought we would see the world change so dramatically that none of us remains immune to the impact of COVID-19. Whilst the pandemic has caused us all significant disruption to our daily lives, on a personal level, within the workplace, and at Rotary, we as Rotarians, are fortunate to still be able to continue what we do bestproviding service to our communities, albeit at a distance. There is no doubt that we are working differently by observing social distancing and b...

2019 RYLAian from Southbank

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Rotary Club of Southbank sponsored Jennisha Arnanta for 2019 RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award). It is a residential camp unlike any other. Over seven days, participants are immersed in a program centered around four key themes: Challenge by choice, diversity, community and time out. We give young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to step away from the distractions of their busy lives and provide the space to think about what is important to them. Jennisha is passionate about peop...

Women in Rotary Breakfast Report

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 02:00:00 +0000

On the 5th March I attended the Women in Rotary, International Women's Day Event at Crown Palladium aptly named 'A Seat at the Table' . With an entertaining host, Musna Pasha we were introduced to an inspiring panel of speakers including Sally Capp (Lord Mayor), Terry Moran AC, (Chancellor Federation University), Deb Platz (Assistant Commissioner AFP), David Lesser (Journalist & Author) and Melinda Cilento (CEO CEDA) with Dr Gael Jennings as the Moderator. They all shared some...

Australian Bushfire Disaster Relief Appeal Breakfast

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 21:00:00 +0000

You are invited to join us at a Business Leaders Breakfast to raise funds for the Australian Bushfire Disaster Relief Appeal. Bookings are now avaliable via Trybooking. CLICK HERE TO BOOK Keynote Speaker Andrew Crisp Emergency Management Commissioner for Victoria. Date: Wednesday 19 February 2020 Time: 7:00am for 7:15am (Concluding 9.00am) Venue: Hyatt Place Event Centre, 1 Larkin Boulevard, Ess...

Rotary Offers Opportunities

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 20:00:00 +0000

Incoming RI President announces 2020-21 presidential theme Rotary International President-elect Holger Knaack is encouraging Rotarians to seize the many opportunities Rotary offers to enrich their lives and the communities they serve. Knaack, a member of the Rotary Club of Herzogtum Lauenburg-Mölln, Germany, revealed the 2020-21 presidential theme, Rotary Opens Opportunities, to incoming district governors at the Rotary International Assembly in San Diego, California, USA, on 20...

Why Toastmasters benefits Rotary clubs

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +0000

You may have heard that most people would rather die than give a speech. Public speaking is the number one fear for many people. For 49 years, I too had a fear of public speaking. It was so bad, I would break out in a sweat. I'd leave the room. I'd find excuses, or ask other people to stand up and speak for me. Anything to avoid having to speak in public. A couple of bad experiences early in my life built up this fear, but I made it my goal to overcome it. Fifteen years ago at the a...

Supporting Bushfire Relief

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Like all Australians, we have been deeply impacted by the bushfires in our country. District 9800 has established a Bushfire Response Committee to coordinate our District response to the bushfires. We are working with the other Districts to ensure we coordinate and maximise our response to those communities in need as base it on the identified needs from those communities. District 9800 is providing two separate ways for Rotary Clubs, Rotarians and members of the public ...

District 9800 Response to the Bushfires

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 13:00:00 +0000

Message from the District Governor Grant Hocking Hello D9800 Rotarians and friends, Like all Australians, we have been deeply impacted by the bushfires in our country. The loss of homes, landscapes, wildlife and lives is truly devastating, and our hearts go out to all those affected. I know you join me in sending our sincere thanks to the firefighters, charities and volunteers who are tirelessly working to assist in our country's recovery. We have been moved by the outpouring of s...

Probus Club Launches for Inner-Melbourne Retirees

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Central Melbourne Melbourne Bearbrass Probus for active retirees launches at Library at the Dock, 107 Victoria Harbour Promenade, Docklands at 10am-noon on Wednesday February 12, 2020. Have the honor of becoming a Bearbrass* foundation member, or just check us out. We'll also welcome potential office-bearers. You'll meet like-minded friends, hear stimulating monthly speakers, and with new friends you'll enjoy Theatre, movies...

Rotary Southbank to Welcome Toastmasters

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 20:00:00 +0000

Toastmasters International and Rotary International have announced a new partnership that will bring together the strengths of these two century old organisations, sharing what we be both value (connecting communities), with our own specialities: Rotary (Community Service) and ToastMasters (Personal Development). Together, Rotary and Toastmasters can not only connect you with leadership skills in your career and your passions, but also share and foster thoese ideas to help make the world ...

Farmer Drought Appeal

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 21:00:00 +0000

Most Australians will be aware that our farmers are struggling with some of the worst drought in history, particularly in regional NSW / VIC and QLD. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that we can expect a drier than average Aug Oct 2019 so things are not going to get better for our farmers any time soon. Drought has an effect on whole communities, not just reducing output but also affecting the mental health of our farmers and their families. In 2018 the Great Northern Brewery co, together wi...

Youth Referral and Independent Person Program

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 21:00:00 +0000

Earlier this month the Rotary club of Southbank hosted Lyndon from the Youth Referral and Independent Person Program (YRIPP). YRIPP is funded by the Victorian Government and is based at the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY), YRIPP is delivered in partnership with the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria, Community Legal Centres and Victoria Police. YRIPP is the first program in Victoria to set up a state wide infrastructure for the provision of Independent Persons to young per...

The District 9800 Foundation Giving Tree - June Newsletter

Sat, 29 Jun 2019 02:00:00 +0000

In the Rotary world most positions have a term of one year. Some other positions such as Foundation roles have a three year term and it is time for the current team to move on. Some will be continuing on as part of the new team who will be capably led by PDG Murray Verso, who I know will fill that role with distinction. Please enjoy this Newsletter (click here) and celebrate three years of success, prancing, celebration and inspiration whilst our dedicated Rotarians continued to Do Goo...

5 Clubs 4 Clusters 1 Combined Meeting

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 21:00:00 +0000

Across the world, there are thousands of Rotary Clubs. Each are independent and have their own local projects, but it is when they connect with other clubs and share ideas, they can learn new ways of doing things, create opportunities to do things differently and have a greater impact. So it was on Monday 17th June, 2019, when members of the Rotary Clubs of Port Melbourne, Southbank, North Melbourne, Glen Eira and Bentleigh Moorabbin Central came together for a combined meeting at the Cricke...

Club meeting next week to be combined with Rotary Club of Port Melbourne on Monday Night

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 08:00:00 +0000

Note change of venue and date Monday 17th June, 2019 - 6 for 6.30pm Cricketers Arms Hotel, 69 Cruickshank St, Port Melbourne One of the exciting things about Rotary is often the opportunity and challenge to adapt to change at short notice. This week, we had originally planned to have Lili Teichman, President Elect of Rotary Club of Glen Eira come and talk to us about the opportunity of sharing projects between our club and other district clubs however at late notice (b...

Let's have some Fun and get stuff Done!

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 23:00:00 +0000

I am excited and a little bit nervous that I am about to become President of my Rotary club. Excited because I know this is going to be an amazing opportunity. I will gain leadership skills and experiences, working in a team to make a real difference to the lives of people in need in our community. And a little bit nervous because I have never really had the opportunity to be a leader before. But I know I am not alone, I have a supportive and talented team backing me up. I want the...

Upcoming Club and District Changeovers in our Area

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 22:00:00 +0000

Below is a list of upcoming Changeover Celebrations in our area. If you would like to help celebrate, please contact the individual club and book your ticket. June 2019 Jun 13 Caulfield http://caulfieldrotary.org.au/event/38642/Changeover,%202019-20 Jun 14 Altona City Ray Lipscombe https://portal.clubrunner.ca/10794/Event/acrc-changeover-dinner-at-kooringal-golf-club Jun 15 Hoppers Crossing Khurram Khan Jun 25 Glen Eira Lili Teichman http://rotarygleneira.org.au/eve...

On to Honolulu

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 02:00:00 +0000

The family of Rotary is invited to experience aloha at the 2020 Rotary International Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 6-10 June 2020. Having Captured the Moment at the 2019 Rotary International Convention, attendees are leaving Hamburg, Germany with their eyes on the sandy beaches and natural beauty of Honolulu. Local Rotary members are already hard at work preparing Honolulu to welcome Aloha, Rotary. Just as Rotary is a way of life for Rotarians, aloha is a way of life for Haw...

Sally takes the reigns while Amrit is away.

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 13:00:00 +0000

It was a small group that met on Tues 4th June at Southbank, but we made up for size with our spirit and busted out a few songs karaoke style for the South Village Singers practice. Even the barman was impressed with our tunes! Sally hosted her first meeting as future President with some great ideas thrown around for her role and future events - some very exciting times ahead for Southbank Rotary. A lot of us will be keeping fit with some fun runs whilst also raising money for MS and S...

Global MS Lunch "Kiss Goodbye to MS" in Southbank

Sat, 18 May 2019 23:00:00 +0000

Club First Lady Saira Griffin and I attended the MS Global Lunch event in conjunction with World MS Day on Sunday 19th May 2019 at the Belgian Beer Cafe in Southbank hosted by RAGMSA (Rotarian Action Group for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness) - in our own turf! Picture from right (L-R): Negar Asadian (PhD student from University of Melbourne), Professor Trevor Kilpatrick, Amanda Campbell (MS Ambassador) MS (multiple sclerosis) is a silent illness, that mostly affects young people...

Things Claire shared on Community Building

Tue, 14 May 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Fourteen (14) of Rotarians and guests came along on a cold Tuesday autumn evening at the Belgian Beer Cafe in Southbank on 14th May 2019 to welcome back Claire Halliday who spoke at our club about two (2) years ago on her books (Things My Father Taught Me & Things My Mother Taught Me). Claire presented her topic on Community Building for Better Business and the believe of how the power of networking and community-building online can enrich organisation...

Rotary & Rotaract Joining Forces to Serve

Tue, 07 May 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Twenty (20) Rotaractors, Rotarians and guests gathered at the Belgian Beer Cafe in Southbank on Tuesday evening 7th May 2019 for the first ever Rotary & Rotaract joint meeting. Intend of this joint meeting was to learn & share about each other's ambitions but most importantly knowing how both clubs can assist each other to foster collaboration. President Martin Wilson, President Amritpal Singh, President Mary Zindilis and President Bronwyn Fanning shared how team work ...

Indian Night in Southbank for a cause

Sat, 04 May 2019 04:00:00 +0000

Club First Lady Saira Griffin and I attended Rotary Club of Central Melbourne's 'Oh Kolkata!' fundraising event on Saturday 4th May 2019. You guessed it right, it was a night of celebration with an Indian flavour designed to raise funds for their international project in Kolkata with the Rotary Club of Calcutta - Victoria and Sierra Madre California. The Kolkata project will provide an opportunity for under privileged men and women to receive t...

2019 MUNA Team from Southbank

Fri, 03 May 2019 22:00:00 +0000

Rotary Club of Southbank sponsored Meghana Jonnalagadda and Fatima Mirza from MacRobertson Girl's High School for MUNA 2019. They were allocated to represent the Russian Federation in a high tempo and full energy discussion with other countries to debate on a number of resolutions like: Word Security Environmental Middle East Human Rights Trade and Commerce Health and Education United Nations &nbs...

Journey with Sally

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 21:00:00 +0000

President-Elect Sally Page presented her Member Behind the Badge segment on Tuesday 23rd April 2019 where we had a number of visiting Rotarians particularly from Rotary Club of North Melbourne, Rotary Club of Brighton and Rotary Club of Melbourne South to hear about Sally's upbringing, social + work life, hobbies and her ambitions in Rotary. It was a great opportunity to hear her share about her life & achievements and we are superbly exicited having Sally Page leading Rot...

Memory Lane with Past President David Jones

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 20:00:00 +0000

On Wednesday 17th April 2019, President Amritpal Singh attended Rotary Club of Melbourne's lunch meeting to hear Professor, The Reverend Gary D. Bouma (AM, FAICD) topic on "Changing Religious Diversity in Australia: What is and What is Coming". It was a fascinating topic and got everyone's attention - marvelous job to President Robert Fisher and his team for hosting a great luncheon meeting! Throughout the meeting, President Amritpal Singh was sitting next to Pa...

District 9800 Rotary Leadership Institute

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 14:00:00 +0000

The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is a grassroots education and learning development program conducted in many Rotary Districts around the world. Although RLI is not an officially endorsed Rotary International program, it continues to gain support and provide a valuable experience that helps Rotarians understand the wider world of Rotary. In District 9800, RLI is a District Managed Program that provides participants with a high quality experience, that engages and involves them in ...

Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success......

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

On Tuesday 16th April 2019, Rotary Club of Southbank had its fourth (4th) and final face-to-face board meeting for 2018-19. We had observers (club members) who came along to discuss on the nine (9) months that past (Jul'18-Mar'19) and plans for the remaining quarter (Apr'19-Jun'19). Various topics surrounding the five (5) areas of service which includes club administration, membership, community, international and youth was discussed to understand the opportunities take...

Journey with Zeenath & a warm welcome to Jaqui!

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 11:00:00 +0000

I was given a wonderful opportunity to share my story with Rotary Club of Southbank on Tuesday 9th April 2019. As always after our lovely gathering and talking about some inspiring work that our club has contributed recently, I had the opportunity to share my story. Prior to the event I was struggling to find a perfect speech. Being a perfectionist, being perfect all the time is one of my core goals. However something inside me kept saying that I should share my raw self and be open an...

Surprise visit from Rotaract Club of Melbourne City

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rotaract Club of Melbourne City paid a surprise visit to our Southbank Conversations & Meetup on Tuesday 2nd April 2019 - what a lovely thing to do and all of them made us happy without a doubt! Special thanks to President-Elect Sally Page, President Nominee Jasmin Dhillon and Kay Ledson for looking after the Rotaractors.

You don't need to save the world, You do need to make a difference

Sat, 13 Apr 2019 22:00:00 +0000

On Tuesday 26th March 2019 evening, we had Hao Teo, the founder of iDibs, gave an insightful talk about EASE (Evolution of a social enterprise). A social enterprise has adapted and changed into different models over the past decades. Hao has provided us with the conventional model of a social enterprise which relied heavily on rich donors or large contributors. He talked about the new different models which are sustainable in nature. &n...

Volunteers are like Angels on Earth

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 23:00:00 +0000

Twenty (20) of us gathered on Tuesday, 12th March 2019 at the Belgian Beer Cafe in Southbank to hear Warren Sparrow talk about Angel Flight and how they assist in transporting rural Australians to medical appointments in major cities. Warren Sparrow (Earth Angel) retired from Air Traffic Control in 2010 and has been volunteering with Angel Flight for 10 years. He has completed over 300 missions and also volunteers as driver for a local Doncaster community health group. He shared some stori...

Team Rotary - MS Melbourne Cycle, Run, Walk!

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 22:00:00 +0000

Just a friendly hello and updates! Hope your training is going well. We have raised $1910 which is really great as we had set our fund raising goal at $1000 but let's see if we can triple it and get to $3000 (that's $1090 to go - if you get corporate donations who do matching donations that would help a lot as the fundraiser is matching eligible). Big shout out to Dion who has received 33 donations (maybe a future Rotarian!) Team
We have 4 team members currently Dion,...

People of Action Unite for Clean Up Australia Day

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 05:00:00 +0000

What do you reckon was the strangest item pulled out of the Yarra River on Clean Up Australia Day? Have a go! On Sunday, 3 March 2019, the Melbourne City Rotaract Club organised a Clean Up the Yarra event for Rotaractors, Rotarians, and community volunteers. This annual event coincides with Clean Up Australia Day, a nation-wide initiative to inspire and empower communities to clean up, fix up and conserve the environment. Forty-five passionate "People of Action" stepped forwa...

There are no boundaries, only possibilities

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 21:00:00 +0000

On a warm and beautiful Tuesday evening on 26th February 2019, we had Ayman Barbaresco who presented his topic on Limitless Boundaries. At birth, Ayman has dealt with many medical complications during his young years including two brain tumours and ongoing medical complications with a genetic disorder called Neurofibromatosis. Born in Sydney to a Jordanian father and Italian mother and relocating to Coffs Harbour (Northern NSW) at the age of three (3), liv...

There is a 'can' in Cancer because we CAN beat it!

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 21:00:00 +0000

Whenever you pass or walkthrough the hospital areas in Parkville, Victoria; you will see the Rotary emblem and you ask yourself how did this all happen? A number of Rotarians and guests gathered at the Bone Marrow Donor Institute (BMDI) Rotary House in North Melbourne on Wednesday evening 27th February 2019 where Managing Director of Fight Cancer Foundation (and a new Rotarian with Rotary Club of Melbourne), Eric Wright shared with us the journey which started way back in early 1990&#...

Catching-up with Wendy & Nick

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 23:00:00 +0000

Southbank Conversations & Meetup is our club's 'informal meeting' where it gives an opportunity for club members to catch-up (including Rotary Family & Friends) and to also discuss about projects (planned or idea initiation) at the Belgian Beer Cafe, Southbank when we don't have our formal meetings scheduled. On Tuesday 19th February 2019, we caught up with Past President Wendy Bennett and Vice-President Elect Nicholas Kane to share highlights from the recent Vi...

Highlights from the Victorian Multi District Conference

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 07:00:00 +0000

Number of us from Rotary Club of Southbank attended the first ever Victorian Multi District Conference (MDC) at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15th February 2019 till 17th February 2019. Over 1,500 Rotarians and guests attended who came from the Victoria state, interstate and overseas. Rotary International Director-Elect Dr. Stephanie Urchick who is a member of the Rotary Club of Canonsburg-Houston Southpointe, USA (District 7330) was the Rotary International ...

Coming together in Southbank

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Coinciding with the Victorian Multi District Conference, we hosted fifty-five (55) Rotarians and guests across District 9800, interstate and overseas for our Club Conference Dinner at the Belgian Beer Cafe in Southbank on Friday 15th February 2019. It was a memorable evening as we had Sameer Vikram Babber (guest speaker) who spoke about "How small and medium businesses leverage data and technology to scale up business with ease", raised over $300 through raffles + a...

Young Achiever Awards 2019

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 23:00:00 +0000

Each year the Rotary Club of Melbourne offers a number of awards to reward excellence in education, training, and vocational contributions to our community. The Rotary Club of Melbourne Young Achievers awards recognise and honour three outstanding young Victorians with an award and a cheque for $1,500.
Awardees are invited to a luncheon meeting where a cheque and a Certificate of Achievement are presented. If you know of persons who may qualify for this award, please discuss this with ...

Finding ways to help each other

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 07:00:00 +0000

Southbank Conversations & Meetup is our club's 'informal meeting' where it gives an opportunity for club members to catch-up (including Rotary Family & Friends) and to also discuss about projects (planned or idea initiation) at the Belgian Beer Cafe, Southbank when we don't have our formal meetings scheduled. On Tuesday 5th February 2019, we had Rotary Club of North Melbourne (President-Elect George Zindilis & Past President Neville Page) together with Assis...

Marching with Pride

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Continuing from the Midsumma Festival 2019, several Rotary and Rotaract clubs in Victoria came together under the Rotary LGBT Fellowship banner to march at the recent Midsumma Pride March on a very hot sunny afternoon (circa 40 degrees!!!) Sunday, 3rd February 2019. Thousands of LGBT community members and friends braved the hot weather as all of us marched proudly on Fitzroy Street in St. Kilda. ...

To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Despite a late apology from Destiny Rescue, we had Shanki Jayawickrama who happens to be a former Rotaractor from Sri Lanka to talk to us about Nutrition & Well-Being on Tuesday, 29th January 2019 - what a way to convert a guest to a guest speaker through persuasion! January is Vocational month in Rotary where we: Adherence to and promotion of the highest ethical standards in all occupations, including fair treatment of employers, employees, associates, competitors, and t...

Rotary Family @ Midsumma Festival 2019

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 22:00:00 +0000

Not only it was a sunny warm day, it was also when the Rotary Family (Rotary, Rotaract & others) came together to promote our wonderful organisation at the recent Midsumma Festival 2019 on Sunday, 20th January 2019 at Alexandra Gardens. Following Rotary and Rotaract clubs (not exhaustive list) volunteered throughtout the day and we thank them for their support & presence: Rotaract Club of Gateway Rotary Club of Bundoora Rotary Club of Manningham Rotar...

Setting the bar for the new year

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 21:00:00 +0000

On Tuesday 22nd January 2019, Rotary Club of Southbank had its third (3rd) face-to-face board meeting + club assembly where we had a number of observers who came along to discuss on the first half that has past (Jul'18-Dec'18) and future plans for the second half (Jan'19-Jun'19) for the 2018-19 year. Various topics surrounding the five (5) areas of service which includes club administration, membership, community, international and youth was discussed to understand the ...

A gift to get the year started

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What a great way to start the new year for the club as we had Past President Kerry Kornhauser, OAM from Rotary Club of Melbourne who gave a presentation on the upcoming International Women's Breakfast which falls on Thursday, 7th March 2019. Kerry also gave us an update about EndTrachoma 2020 and to understand better in how we can pursue contribution towards this cause. Peggy Kalantzis from Australia Post donated a number of items which includes soaps, towels, candle...

Standing for diversity in our community

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 04:00:00 +0000

The Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and gender diverse, and intersex (LGBTI) community have, and still face many struggles today. As Rotarians we must celebrate the diversity of all aspects of our communities and come together for the second time ever to be part of the Midsumma Festival Melbourne Pride. Late last year our Rotary family came together for an LGBTI+ awareness session on 1st December 2018. Our next step is to promote Rotary within the community as an open and inclusive...

Home Away from Home

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 08:00:00 +0000

"Surround yourself with people who inspire you to do better" by Robyn Williams

Joining Rotary Club of Southbank was the best decision I made in 2018 where I've met amazing Rotarians who have inspired me to be better and do better for the community. In some way or the other, it has ignited my faith in humanity and inspired me to take action.

As a new member, I have received tremendous support from President Amritpal Singh and members of the club which is amazing. Wit...

Extravaganza Party!

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 20:00:00 +0000

We thought why not we throw a massive party to celebrate Christmas, New Year's Eve and our very own member Rotarian Judy Parslow's birthday on Tuesday, 18th December 2018 at the Belgian Beer Cafe, Southbank. Theme of the party was 'Over the Rainbow' which was to celebrate peace and happiness in the world. It was also a fundraiser for Seven Women which our club pledged to donate $1,000 to build a toilet for Seven Women's Guesthouse in Kathmandu. &nb...

Southbank's launch of 'A Little Ray of Giving'

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 17:00:00 +0000

Ray White Southbank organised the launch of the 2018 'A Little Ray of Giving' on Friday afternoon, 14th December 2018 where there was free bianco latte ice-cream (gold coin donation), Santa greeting patrons + children and Rotarian Anne Mitchell from Rotary Club of Carlton & Steps Outreach Service as guest speaker. 'A Little Ray of Giving' is Ray White's very own community charity initiative where offices acro...

Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA)

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 04:00:00 +0000

A Rotary District 9800 Sponsored Program Joint Host Club (Rotary Clubs of Glenferrie and Chadstone East Malvern) and the organizing Committee are Seeking Teams of Senior Students for Saturday April 27 to Sunday 28, 2019 At Swinburne University in Hawthorn MUNA stands for Model United Nations Assembly, which simulates the workings of the UN Assembly by having teams of two senior students from each of a number of schools represent a particular UN country in debates on matters of ...

Tucson cruises to Southbank

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 13:00:00 +0000

Southbank Conversations & Meetup is our club's 'informal meeting' where it gives an opportunity for club members to catch-up (including Rotary Family & Friends) and to also discuss about projects (planned or idea initiation) at the Belgian Beer Cafe, Southbank when we don't have our formal meetings scheduled. On Tuesday 11th December 2018, Rotarian Drew Vactor and his wife Honorary Member Kandie Vactor from Rotary Club of Tucson, Arizona U.S.A (chartered in 1921...

30 Years of RAGMSA (Rotarian Action Group of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness)

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 +0000

We had the honour and privilege to have Past President Martin Taurins and Rotarian Diana Taurins from Rotary Club of Gisborne to talk about their journey with Rotarian Action Group of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness (RAGMSA) and how the formation evolved for the past thirty (30) years on Tuesday, 4th December 2018. Photo from left to right: Past President Martin Taurins, Rotarian Diana Taurins and our very own Past President Steven Aquilina Their late son, Past President Jacob Ta...

2018 RYLAian from Southbank

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 17:00:00 +0000

Rotary Club of Southbank sponsored Grace Sheehan for this year's 2018 RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award). It is a residential camp unlike any other. Over seven days, participants are immersed in a program centered around four key themes: Challenge by choice, diversity, community and time out. We give young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to step away from the distractions of their busy lives and provide the space to think about what is important to them. Grace enjoys playing...

Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2018

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Part of our club Constitution dictates that the club is required to hold an annual general meeting within five months after the end of the association's financial year which is by 30th November latest every year. This year's Rotary Club of Southbank's Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on Tuesday 20th November 2018 at the Belgian Beer Cafe, Southbank whereby the election of the 2019-2020 board was conducted. This included the Presidents report (Immediate Past President Liam ...

Prancing in the Park for Polio

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 14:00:00 +0000

On Saturday 17th November, District 9800 came together to help take the fight right up to Polio with the very first End Polio Prance. Forty-one (41) Rotarians and Walter the Great (Polio) Dane pranced their way around Albert Park Lake in Melbourne on beautiful morning that raised $103,512.75 give or take a few cents. Thanks to District & Foundation funds PLUS the matching 2:1 donation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, we were able to reach...

Learning about Garlic in South Gippsland

Sun, 04 Nov 2018 21:00:00 +0000

It was a memorable and fulfilling vocational excursion visiting our club member Rotarian David Jones in South Gippsland to learn about garlic on a cool plus windy Saturday morning on 3rd November 2018. David explained how his wife Kirsten and him embarked this journey being garlic farmers and the obstacles they had to endure. With number of trials and errors, they found their formula and got going with production about eight (8) years ago. He also demonstrated the technology behind the end...

Artists IGNITE through ART

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 04:00:00 +0000

Ignite is a joint project of Rotary Club of Melbourne and Arts Access Victoria. This new partnership between Rotary Club of Melbourne and Arts Access Victoria, the State's leading arts and disability organization which delivers community arts and cultural development programs for more than 2,000 people with a disability, aimed at securing employment outcomes. Photo: Participating artists from the IGNITE program It also supports artists with a disability, enables Rotarians ...

Festivities of Oktoberfest 2018

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 03:00:00 +0000

Shirin Geisel was a German Youth Exchange Student from Germany (sponsored by our club) and during her stay here, she initiated the Oktoberfest festivities which started way back on Tuesday 29th October 2013. Since then, our club has kept this tradition going where it is a night filled with culture, fun and laughter. We had the fifth (5th) Oktoberfest celebrations on Tuesday night 23rd October 2018 and twenty-six (26) people came along to learn about beers from the Belgian Beer Cafe hos...

Continuation to grow and improve

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 05:00:00 +0000

On Tuesday 16th October 2018, Rotary Club of Southbank had its second (2nd) face-to-face board meeting where we had a number of observers who came along to discuss on the successful first (1st) quarter that just past and future plans for the remaining 2018-19 year. Various topics surrounding the five (5) areas of service which includes club administration, membership, community, international and youth was bought up to understand potential opportunities that lies ahead. This includes l...

Hampers and Movie Tickets for Ray

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 23:00:00 +0000

Australia Post Dandenong Letter Centre (DLC) donated five (5) hampers and movie tickets to Rotary Club of Southbank on 19th October 2018 to support the Ray White Southbank's "A little Ray of Giving" program to support and help the unprivileged communities in Southbank and nearby areas. Rotary Club of Southbank is grateful and humbled by Australia Post generosity in helping our communities in need irrespective of geographical areas. Photo from left to right: Rod Hoobe...

Southbank bags a hat-trick!

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 03:00:00 +0000

Highlights from the goals scored on Tuesday evening 25th September 2018 at Red Emperor, Southbank Goal 1 (1' min): Every year the District Governor pays an official visit to every Rotary Club not only to meet & greet but also to provide latest news/coverage of what great work Rotarians and Rotary as whole does locally and internationally. On Tuesday evening 25th September 2018, Southbank had the honour welcoming District Governor Bronwyn Stephens from Rotary Club of Melbourne ...

The Giver is the Getter

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 01:00:00 +0000

Either in your professional career, volunteering capacity, personal time or others you tend to do more for others and you would think whether it is worth it / more importantly you question 'what's in for me?'. Well majority of people will say it is not worth the time or energy but in hindsight it is rewarding. Costa Englezos came to talk to us on Tuesday evening 11th September 2018 on the topic of "The Giver is the Getter". Twelve (12) of us learnt the philos...

Rotary Foundation Thanks You

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 21:00:00 +0000

Rotarians are People of Action Rotarians work tirelessly to improve their communities and do good in the world. In 2017-18, you took action and raised more than $414 million for the Rotary Foundation. In 169 countries, your contributions helped fund 1300 Global Grants & 503 District Grants When villages needs clean water, you drilled wells. When children wanted to learn, you provided opportunities And where there was darkess, you brought light. ...

Beyond the Job Interview - A wrap of our 'Your highest pay ever' event

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 21:00:00 +0000

Initial reaction when you get notified to be called in for an interview or series of interviews is that you get excited, this happens after submitting job application(s) almost there in getting your dream job. Though the case, you will find it challenging because you are just unsure what will pan out, whether it will be a good conversation or just a pure disaster with your future bosses/colleagues.

We gathered at Boyd Community Hub in Southbank on Monday 3rd September 2018 evening where twe...

Nominations Open for Sir John Reid Community Service Award

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 21:00:00 +0000

"More than 1.5 million volunteers are making an important impact across Victoria in building our communities, services, and connections. The Rotary Club of Melbourne wishes to pay tribute to those dedicated achievers, and encourage others to follow their lead through the Sir John Reid Community Service Award.

To nominate a candidate, please download the instructions and nomination form at the Rotary Club of Melbourne website at:

https://rotaryclubofmelbourne.org.au/club-awards-item/307...

Homeless World Cup Revisited - 10 Years on!

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Part of the journey leading up to presidency was to understand the rich history of projects/events which the club has done since the club chartered back in 1999. Though it is challenging and at times leading to no leads, I kept on trying and something came up! Tung Dinh (a close friend of mine) mentioned about George Halkias who ran the Melbourne Homeless World Cup back in 2008 and used to be his boss at the Victims Referral and Assistance Service department in the Victorian ...

Rotaract Harry Potter Trivia Night

Sat, 25 Aug 2018 14:00:00 +0000

J.K. Rowling created the Harry Potter phenomenon when the first novel (Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone) was released on 26th June 1997. But who would have thought twenty-one (21) years later a trivia on Harry Potter would be held? Well that took place on 25th August 2018 at the Fitzroy Town Hall organised by Rotaract Club of Melbourne City, Australia (co-sponsored by Rotary Club of Southbank and Rotary Club of North Melbourne). A total of eight (8) rounds consisting of que...

Rotary Leadership Institute Experiences

Sat, 25 Aug 2018 04:00:00 +0000

Over 2 Sundays in August, 2018, our members Lilian, Sally & Jasmin attended the Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) where they undertook . RLI is aimed at potential club leaders, as well as those who wish to build their Rotary knowledge, and provides Rotary education and leadership training in a facilitated discussion format. It was noted at the outset that having leadership skills does not alone assure good Rotary leadership. An effective Rotary leadership must also have Rotar...

Rotary and Ray White Southbank - A little Ray of Giving

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 21:00:00 +0000

Despite the strong winds and potential rains, we had our club meeting on 14th August 2018 at the Belgian Beer Cafe in Southbank - seventeen (17) of us braved the weather so kudo's to everyone! Andrew Salvo from Ray White Southbank gave us an update on "A little Ray of Giving" program which has been running nationally by all Ray White branches throughout Australia for awhile. Last year in 2017, Ray White Southbank came fourth (4th) in the Victoria state and received numero...

Letter to the Rotary Club of Bangsar, on the occasion of the club changeover

Sun, 19 Aug 2018 13:00:00 +0000

Message from President Amritpal Singh Rotary Club of Southbank, Melbourne Australia (District 9800) to our sister club, Rotary Club of Bangsar, Malaysia 19th August, 2018 Rotary Club of Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia District 3300 My heartiest congratulations on your club's installation of President Vinesh Thanabalasingam and his board of directors. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to pen a few words. Many of your club members and even Rotarians throu...

Community Service starts with Public Image

Sat, 18 Aug 2018 18:00:00 +0000

New Zone 8 Public Image Coordinator Newsletter

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 21:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the first Zone 8 Public Image newsletter for 2018-19. It is a huge honour and a privilege for me to have been appointed as Rotary Public Image Coordinator for our Zone for 2018-2021 and while the task seems daunting at times, I'm very much looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead. Being a Public Image Coordinator is a responsibility I do not take lightly and I will do everything possible over the next three years to ensure that the trust shown in me by Rotary Interna...

Membership & Community Development

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 09:00:00 +0000

This month is about Membership & Community Development and we have done a number of things (yes, again!) which includes: #RotaryDay at Winter Night Market on 8th August 2018 Rotaract District 9800 Changeover on 11th August 2018 Rotary Leadership Institute (Part 1) on 12th August 2018 Remember that person or group of people you met either from a common gathering, workplace, events or through mutual connections who'd like to give back to local and internatio...

Rotaract District 9800 Changeover

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 09:00:00 +0000

We celebrated Rotaract's District 9800 Changeover (Melbourne City and Gateway Rotaract Clubs) on 11th August 2018 in Moonee Ponds. In attendance we had District Governor Bronwyn Stephens, a number of district Youth chairs, Rotarians (from District 9800 & 9810), Rotaractors (from 9800 & 9810), family and friends. District Rotaract Representative Helena Toscas, President Martin Wilson from Rotaract Club of Melbourne City (co-sponsored by Southbank & North Melbourne Rotary...

2018 Cross Egypt Challenge - A unique experience

Thu, 09 Aug 2018 08:00:00 +0000

Dear fellow Rotarians around the world, As we are marching into the new 2018-2019 Rotary year, the Rotary Club of Alexandria Cosmopolitan - District 2451 Egypt is wishing you a joyful new Rotary year. We are also happy to renew our invitation to you and the members of your prestigious and respectful club to learn more about, and share our Rotary organized initiative, "Cross Egypt Challenge" that aims to promote tourism to Egypt and to prove that Egypt is still safe for tourism....

Rotary Radio And Facebook Communication - 2 Bright Ideas!

Sat, 04 Aug 2018 14:00:00 +0000

By Brownyn Stevens, District Governor, District 9800 Travelling up and down the Calder highway and east to west across the Westgate and being made so welcome in our Clubs is a joy and privilege. May I start by saying "thank you" to the Rotarians and Club boards that have welcomed Mark and I at your meetings. It is my intention to share in these reflections great ideas. In this year of "Being the Inspiration" it is my hope that our communities will have the oppor...

Becollective - A new opportunity to connect and volunteer

Sat, 04 Aug 2018 13:00:00 +0000

A project led by the Rotary Club of Central Melbourne and developed through Swinburne University. What is Be Collective? Be Collective is a digital gateway to maximise promotion and volunteers for your Club projects. It has practical tools to help you manage groups of people as well as run events and projects it also is easy to find opportunities to volunteer. It is an integrated, networked hub for exchanging people's time, skills, knowledge, resources and financ...

Cluster led by Bat Team and Superman

Sat, 04 Aug 2018 13:00:00 +0000

What a month it was for the club for July'18; we had our: Changeover (7th July 2018) Yoga / Mindfulness Day @ Boyd Community Hub (14th July 2018) First club meeting to hear Molina Swarup Asthana to talk about 'Opportunity in the face of adversity' (17th July 2018) First face-to-face board meeting (24th July 2018) Run Melbourne Fundraiser for Steps Outreach Service & Tree Planting Day with Rotary Clubs of Croydon, Southbank, North Melbourne, Es...