DISTRICT NEWS - DECEMBER 2025

Wishing all District members and families a festive
and safe Christmas.

Our District is looking forward to successful 2026.

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Dear Rotary Presidents, Club Leaders, and Fellow Rotarians,
Greetings from Renga!
 
It gives me immense pride, gratitude, and optimism to welcome you to the sixth edition of our District Bulletin for the Rotary Year 2025–26.
 
Disease Prevention and Treatment Month
This month, Rotary International highlights one of our most impactful Areas of Focus Disease Prevention and Treatment. From polio eradication and maternal health to addressing chronic diseases and supporting mental wellbeing, Rotarians worldwide are taking action that saves lives and uplifts communities. Our commitment to prevention, treatment, and accessible healthcare continues to be a beacon of hope for millions.
 
We had an inspiring Zone 8 Conference on the Gold Coast, graced by incoming Rotary International President Yinka Babalola and Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko. Their leadership, insights, and vision energised everyone in attendance.
 
Another proud moment for our district was the Zone 8 National Launch of “Say No to Domestic Violence and Yes to Respectful Relationships” at Federal Parliament. Our district team and many club members represented us strongly at this historic initiative.
 
In the final week of November, our district also supported three major awareness walks in Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and Fairy Meadow. These events saw remarkable participation from local, state, and federal leaders, as well as senior police officials, creating powerful visibility and momentum within our communities.
 
Highlights from Across Our District
Our clubs continue to demonstrate outstanding leadership and service through a diverse range of impactful events, including:
  • Celebration fundraisers
  • Golf Day
  • POOTY Awards
  • Citizenship Awards
  • Seniors’ Christmas Lunch
Thank you to all club leaders, volunteers, and community partners whose dedication truly reflects the spirit of Rotary.
 
Raise for Rotary 2025 –Update
I am delighted to share that we have now visited 22 clubs, all actively participating in the Raise for Rotary 2025 campaign. Together, we have completed 890.450 km in 162 days and raised over $18,000 for The Rotary Foundation.
 
This achievement is a strong testament to our district’s unity, energy, and unwavering commitment to Rotary’s global mission. As we observe Disease Prevention and Treatment Month, I encourage every club to continue to promote, participate in, and contribute to this meaningful initiative. Every step we walk and every dollar we give helps create hope, dignity, and opportunity for someone in need.
 
Thank you for your continued dedication to Create Hope in the World. Let us carry this momentum forward with purpose and passion as we serve together.
 
Yours in Rotary Service,
Renga Rajan
District Governor 2025–26
 
 
 
 
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Happy Birthday
Congratulations to the following Clubs in our District who achieve milestones in December:
 
  • Bondi Junction achieved 86 years on 5/12
  • Liverpool turn 76 on 16/12
Congratulations to all club members from your District Team.
 
To find out about events being held by Clubs, check out the Club News page on our website - link below.
Club News

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President Elect Learning

Congratulations to those clubs who already have a President Elect in place! Planning
is already happening for President Elect Learning and Development. An important
date is the Pre-PELD Zoom on 26th Feb 2026. At this meeting we get you equipped
and prepared for PELD which takes place on 18th April.  Register to attend pre-PELD here and PELD here.

Rotary.org - The website of Rotary International

The Rotary International website, https://www.rotary.org, is an indispensable tool for all Rotarians. It offers centralised access to all the resources needed to better understand Rotary's work and strengthen one's commitment.

Each member can discover the organization's major programs, follow the progress of global humanitarian projects and consult strategic priorities. Rotary.org also provides access to My Rotary, a personal space where you can manage your profile, find official documents, follow online training courses and participate in action groups.

The site offers a wealth of information on grants, Rotary Foundation activities, and international collaboration opportunities. It also includes communication tools, document templates and ideas for actions to boost your club. Thanks to Rotary.org, every Rotarian has a comprehensive platform to learn, train, and act in service of a better world. 

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Expression of Interest – Rotary Community Leader (South West Sydney)

In consultation with Clubs across South West Sydney the District team is reviewing the current Rotary Community Group (RCG) structure with the intention of transitioning to two RCGs in the region.

Proposed RCL2
Camden
Campbelltown
Gregory Hills Next Generation
Ingleburn
Macarthur Sunrise
Macarthur Rotaract
Narellan
Picton
Wollondilly North
 
Proposed RCL6
Fairfield City
Holroyd
Liverpool
Liverpool West
South-West Sydney Rotaract
 
We are seeking two passionate, capable Rotarians who embody Rotary values and are committed to leading positive change as a Rotary Community leader (RCL). If you’re a community-minded leader ready to support and strengthen our clubs, we’d love to hear from you.
 
What We’re Looking For
  • Demonstrated leadership within Rotary or community organisations
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Commitment to Rotary’s mission, values, and strategic direction
  • Ability to support, mentor, and guide clubs and members
Financial support is available for RCL activities; details are provided in the attached policy.
 
Questions?
For enquiries, please contact:
Rotary Community Nominee: Steven Lovison – community@rotarysouthpacific.org
DGE: Shane Burette – shaneburette@gmail.com
 
Submitting an EOI
Please send nominations or expressions of interest to Shane Burette by COB Friday, 6 February.  EOI can be sourced here.
 
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Overall Winner of the Asian Australian Leadership Awards

Dr Sonu Bhaskar, RC of Sydney Cove has been recognised as the Overall Winner - Asian Australian Leadership Award.
 
His journey from a neurodivergent child reading by the soft glow of a kerosene lamp in a quiet corner of India, to becoming one of Australia’s most influential Asian leaders and a globally respected health innovator, is nothing short of inspirational.
 
 
This award stands not only as a personal achievement but also as a powerful message of hope and possibility with his leadership in global health and dedication to advancing innovation continuing to elevate Australia on the world stage.
 
The ABC Report on his award can be watched here.
 
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RYLA 2026 Applications

RYLA 2026 applications have closed.  If your Club is interested in sponsoring a candidate, get in touch with the RYLA team: ryla9675.seminarteam@gmail.com

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RYPEN 2026 Applications

RYPEN, The Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment, is for young people aged 14 to 16 years and caters for teenagers who have shown qualities and application in everyday life which deserve further development.  Dates for sessions at Teen Ranch are:

  • Friday 1st May - Sunday 3rd May
  • Friday 28th August - Sunday 30th August
For more details, contact the RYPEN Chair,
David Butterfield: rustonsignco@hotmail.com
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International Travel & Hosting Fellowship (ITHF)

 
Did you know that the ITHF is the oldest and largest Fellowship in Rotary International?  Does international travel with fellow Rotarians interest you then take a look at their November Newsletter.
 
More details on this fellowship can be found at:  https://www.ithf.org/
 

For new Rotarians, what is a Fellowship Group?

Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.
 
With over 100 fellowships covering 4x4 to Wine, Yachting and Yoga, your interests will definitely be covered.  Membership in a fellowship is open to any interested individual. 
 
More information on fellowships at can be found at: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/more-fellowships
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Rotary International - Taipei 2026 Convention

This is a final reminder of the upcoming price change, on 15 December 2025.