I am honoured and Ready to serve this great Club as President over the next 12 months.
I look forward to the busy year ahead where we will once again continue our wonderful work in the local community and around the world.
During my 5 years as a Rotarian I have enjoyed serving the community to make a difference, the opportunity to "give back" and hopefully change peoples lives in some small way for the better.
Our goals for this year include continuing to build relationships within the community, increasing our membership, take on extra local and international projects all whilst including an element of Fun to our meetings.
As per the Rotary International vision for 2026 / 2027, our aim is to "Create lasting Impact"
Norm England
The Rotary Club of Altona City meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month at Kooringal Golf Club, Wilga Avenue, Altona at 6.30pm for 7.00 pm start.
Keep checking the calendar as it is subject to change. Version 6 August 5th 2026
CLUB CALENDAR OF MEETINGS and EVENTS
July 2026 – February 2027
DATE
DAY
EVENT TYPE
TIME
VENUE
July 12
Sunday
CLUB CHANGEOVER
5.45pm for 6.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club
July 21
Tuesday
Club Meeting + Board Mtg
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club
August 4
Tuesday
Club Meeting
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club
August 18
Tuesday
Club Meeting + Board Mtg
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club Spike Bar
August 31
Monday
CLUSTER BBQ
6.00pm for 6.30
Noordenne’s farm
September 1
Tuesday
Mock Job Interviews
10.00am – 12.30pm
Bayside College
September 5
Sunday
Polio Plus Society Afternoon Tea
2.30pm
Uniting Church Hall,
Camberwell Road, Camberwell.
September 9
Wednesday
Mock Job Interviews
tba
Williamstown HS
September 15
Tuesday
Club Meeting + Board Mtg
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club
Spike Bar
School Holidays 21 September - 4 October
October 6
Tuesday
Club Meeting + Board Mtg + AGM
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club Spike Bar
October 20
Tuesday
EDUCATION EXCELLENCE AWARDS
6.00 for 6.30pm
Kooringal Golf Club
November 17
Tuesday
AGM & Club Meeting
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club Spike Bar
December 1
Tuesday
Districy Governor Visit Club Meeting and Board Meeting
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club Spike Bar
December 16
Wednesday
CHRISTMAS FUNCTION
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club
2027
January 19
Tuesday
Club Meeting and packing for Australia Day
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club Spike Bar
January 26
Tuesday
Australia Day Event
9.30am – 2.30pm
Central Square Shopping Centre
February 2
Tuesday
Club Meeting + Board Meeting + Guest Speaker
6.45pm for 7.00pm
Kooringal Golf Club Spike Bar
February 8
Monday
CLUSTER BBQ
6.00pm for 6.30pm
Noordenne’s farm
guest speaker associate professor frances batchelor - national ageing research institute
Altona City Rotary Club members enjoyed a very informative presentation last night from Associate Professor Frances Batchelor from the National Ageing Research Institute (NARI), who spoke about the important issue of falls prevention, particularly as we get older.
Frances explained that falls are not simply an inevitable part of ageing. Many falls can be prevented, or the risk significantly reduced, by recognising the risks early and making relatively simple changes to our lifestyle and surroundings.
Members heard just how common falls are among older Australians and the significant impact they can have on independence, confidence and quality of life. Frances discussed a range of practical measures that can help reduce the risk, including maintaining strength and balance, staying physically active, reviewing medications, having eyesight checked and identifying potential hazards around the home.
One particularly striking message was that one in three people over 65 falls each year, highlighting why prevention and awareness are so important.
It was also great to see the evening reaching beyond our own Rotary membership. Club member Hong Jin has been keen to encourage greater involvement from his local Chinese community, and we were delighted to welcome several members of the Chinese community to the presentation. It was a wonderful example of Rotary helping to bring people together while sharing important health and wellbeing information across our community.
The presentation generated plenty of interest and provided practical information that members and guests could take home and share with family and friends.
Our thanks to Frances Batchelor for an engaging, informative and very worthwhile presentation, and to Hong for helping extend the invitation into the wider community.
Falls prevention may not always be something we think about until a fall occurs, but the message from the evening was clear: there are things we can do now to reduce the risk and help ourselves remain active, confident and independent for longer.
Find out more
For more information about the National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) and its work in healthy ageing, falls prevention and research, visit:
Our guest speaker on 4 August was Tom Rujis from an organisation called Dadfit.
Dadfit Melbourne is a unique community program that brings fathers together to improve their physical health, mental wellbeing and confidence as parents. Through fun, inclusive workouts, open conversations about the challenges of fatherhood, and practical weekly activities, Dadfit creates a supportive environment where dads can connect, learn from one another and build lasting friendships.
The program is based on a simple but powerful belief that fatherhood is better when it's a team sport. By helping dads become healthier, more connected and more engaged,
Dadfit strengthens not only individual fathers but also their families and the wider community. Best of all, the five-week program is free and welcomes dads of all fitness levels.
To find out more, register for an upcoming program or enquire about bringing Dadfit to your community, visit www.dadfit.au email hello@dadfit.au
Tuesday night's meeting was a special occasion for our club as we proudly welcomed PK Shah as our newest member.
Club President Norm England conducted the induction ceremony, officially presenting PK with the Rotary lapel pin—the internationally recognised symbol of our commitment to Service Above Self—along with a Rotary information pack to help him begin his journey as a Rotarian.
Welcoming new members is one of the most important moments in the life of any Rotary club. It reflects our continued growth, our commitment to serving the community, and the strength that comes from bringing together people with diverse skills, experiences and a shared desire to make a difference.
We warmly welcome PK to the Rotary family and look forward to his friendship, enthusiasm and contributions to the many projects and activities of the Altona City Rotary Club. We wish him every success and many rewarding years of Rotary service.
President Norm England recently introduced a new initiative to our club meetings called Passion Pitch.
The concept is simple – members are invited to spend three minutes speaking about something they are passionate about, giving fellow Rotarians an opportunity to learn more about each other and the causes that inspire us.
Our first Passion Pitch was presented by Hong, who spoke about his work supporting members of Melbourne's Chinese community as they settle into Australian life. Hong shared how he helps people better understand Australian culture, connect with local communities, and build confidence as they establish new lives here. His presentation highlighted the importance of inclusion, cultural understanding, and the positive difference that one dedicated individual can make.
We look forward to hearing many more inspiring stories from our members in the months ahead.
The club will be conducting Mock Job Interviews again on the following dates
Tuesday September 1st, at Bayside College, Newport Campus
Wednesday 9th September at Williamstown High School.
Mock Job Interviews are a way for senior high school students to practice what going for a job might look like when they are ready to choose a profession they would like to apply for. The program run jointly with the schools asks students to put together a resume and cover letter and then sit a mock job interview panel that is as realistic as possible.
Bryan Goodwin is currently putting to gether panel members so if you think you would like to assist drop him an email bgoodwin@bigpond.com
In the past, people who have been panel members have enjoyed the experience. A Working With Childrens Check is required so if you haven't got one apply online here under category of volunteer (no cost) below
Rotary South Pacific NewsYou are receiving this email as a Rotarian or Rotaractor in a participating district of the Rotary South Pacific Pilot.
Message from the Chair
Pictured, from left to right: Top row: David Caruthers (Treasurer), Tony Monley (Company Secretary), Amanda Barnes (Service Projects Programs Director), David Barton (Membership Director), Edith Chaney (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director), Peter Rogers (Fundraising, Partnerships & Grants Director) and Alan Eyes (Corporate Admin). Bottom row: Liz Courtney (Learning & Development Director), Stephen Lovison (Community Group Director), Jennie Herring (Chair), Joe Martinovic (Rotaract Director) and Liz McDougall (Public Image Director).
Dear Rotarians and Rotaractors,
August is Rotary International’s Membership Month and this edition is packed with tools and solutions to help clubs strengthen and grow in their communities. Check out the new resources on Rotary South Pacific's Membership Portfolio page, including a handy kit for Onboarding and Attracting New Members.
We're also nearing an exciting milestone of 100 Rotary Community Leaders in place across our Community Groups. Today, we are at 94 and you can read more about The Road to 114 below.
Members are curious about the benefits of the pilot - here are two worthy examples. Our flourishing Rotary Community Groups, which are creating innovative ways for people to connect with Rotary by enhancing member engagement and scaling projects, and the Specialist Hub, the perfect go-to platform for clubs to seek assistance on a range of topics from experts across the region.
We hope you find something useful for your club in this newsletter.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Regards,
Jennie Herring,
Chair,
Rotary South Pacific
The Road to 114...
Rotary Community Leaders (RCLs) and Groups (RCGs) are a key initiative of Rotary South Pacific. We have a goal to ensure there are multiple RCLs across every district in the South Pacific. We already have 94 leaders, and we're getting close to our major milestone of 100 RCLs. Help us get to 100 by nominating yourself, or recommending someone you know!
How Rotary Community Groups & Leaders benefit your club
Your club can directly benefit from its connection to other local clubs and a supportive leadership team. Together, you increase your collective impact.
How does an RCL help clubs grow?
They act as guides and mentor clubs within Rotary Community Groups (RCGs), functioning as the primary connector between clubs, the Regional Council and portfolio committees, districts, and specialist hub resources, while translating regional strategy into practical, club-level outcomes that enhance the member experience and strengthen Rotary’s public image.
At RSP, we directly support Rotary and Rotaract clubs by providing consistent support for members to get the most out of their club activities. Here's how we do it.
Free access to the Specialist Hub
Expert advice for Rotarians from Rotarians
Connect with a Rotarian who can offer advice on club-specific challenges. There are over 40 specialists to connect with who have expertise ranging from: Funding, grants, club diversity, public image, peace poles, service projects, club operations, insurance and more!
Through the RSP pilot, your club is connected to other local clubs through Rotary Community Groups (RCG). The RCGs are in place to increase your collective impact, create opportunities friendship and provide peer support. We've been working closely with your Rotary Community Leaders, to ensure your club and community group can navigate opportunities sucessfully together.
We support the development and scaling of Services Programs and Projects which clubs within Rotary South Pacific can adapt in their own local area. See how you, your club, community group or district can engage with these initiatives to increase mental health and wellbeing, respectful relationships, support your current pursuits and of course End Polio Now.
In order to further support clubs and members, Rotary South Pacific is actively reviewing opportunities for commercial or governmental partnerships that can help you achieve more through your Rotary membership. While RSP has no formal partnerships in place at this stage, we do have a robust process in place to help us review, navigate and endorse official these opportunities. When a partnership is entered into with Rotary South Pacific, this will be communicated to members in the region.
Helpful Guides for Clubs
Does your club make a good first impression?
As we get settled into a new Rotary year, many Rotarians have come into new club roles. Every member can play a part in ensuring Rotary’s public image is top notch.
Here are five things you can do right now to ensure your club is making a great first impression online.
How will your club embrace diversity and inclusion?
Rotary remains committed to fostering a culture of belonging and respect. We do this by creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, included and valued. If your club is interested in embracing and fostering an inclusive environment, then our Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Club Framework can help get you started.
Increasing membership numbers across Rotary in the South Pacific is a high priority for our region. Find out how your club and district can attract and onboard new members to your club by leveraging community events, having meaningful conversations and sharing your club's activities on social media.
Encouraging safe families, relationships & community
Rotary Says No is a club-initiated campaign against domestic and family violence in Australia grounded in primary prevention, changing the attitudes, behaviours, and social norms that allow violence to occur. Read the latest version of the tool kit to see how your club can get involved.
Did you know it's Membership and New Club Development Month on the Rotary calendar? One way to celebrate your membership is to share how proud you are to be a member. Rotary International has developed several tiles for Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact, to share on your social media pages. Zoom backgrounds are also available in the Brand Center.
AI is becoming a helpful tool for Rotary members, from drafting social media posts and generating fundraising ideas to summarizing meeting notes and analyzing volunteer engagement trends. To help members use AI ethically and responsibly, Rotary has produced two resources: AI Guidelines for Members and Member FAQ on AI Use.
Rotary and Bunnings have been naturally, albeit informally affiliated through the number of barbecues held at Bunnings warehouses throughout Australia.
Rotary South Pacific Chair Jennie Herring and Bunnings Managing Director Mike Snyder met to discuss opportunities to further advance both organisations objectives. Bunnings is keen on engaging on a regional basis but also wants to remain hyper-local, recognising that Rotary clubs deeply understand the needs of their local community
In its commitment to do this, Bunnings’ Community Engagement Team shared information on their new community grants program designed to support not-for-profit organisations delivering practical projects that create real, local impact.
Grants of up to $10,000 are available
Open to registered not-for-profit organisations with a valid ABN or NZBN
Supports local, grassroots projects that deliver meaningful community benefit
Applications are submitted via a simple online process for Australia and New Zealand
Disclaimer: This Grants Program is solely managed and administered by Bunnings.Rotary South Pacific, Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation are not affiliated with these grants in any way. This opportunity is being shared by RSP to identify resources available to clubs that would help in delivering impactful volunteer experiences to its members.
The Rotary Foundation concludes each year with a message from the outgoing Chair highlighting some of the achievements and a note of confidence for the year ahead. As always Rotarians are thanked for their service, their partnership and commitment to our shared mission. Below are some more specific highlights.Read more
Welcome to the first edition of Rotary Foundation on the Move for the Rotary year 2026-27. We welcome new District Foundation in Zone 8 and look forward to contributions from your Districts. Again, there are varied projects featured (including from across the "ditch") and we look forward to more stories on Our Foundation "Doing Good in the World".
Thank you to all of the Rotarians who responded to my message for stories. There is a lot going on in District 9800 and happy to share your projects and achievements.
July was an exciting first month as District Governor with many amazing and varied events and activities across our District. These included multiple Club Changeovers celebrating achievements and renewal. Special events included a Health & Wellbeing Forum for Youth, a National Science and Engineering challenge, a classic Rotary Art Show in its 61st year, the chartering of a Rotaract Club and a Radio Interview.
This photo was taken at the Camberwell Rotary Art Show with Robert Pattison (sponsorship)and PP Peter Pratt (former treasurer)
An article from Mark Rak, Daylesford President Daylesford Rotary’s annual Changeover on the 9th of July was a celebration of many achievements by the Club and by individual members. Mark Rak was inducted as the incoming Club President for the coming 6 months and also received Paul Harris Fellow recognition for his major contributions to our community and Rotary.
An article from Paul Rake, Chadstone East Malvern Seventy-two microwave ovens, ninety-two floor mops, forty-two kettles and thirty toasters – what do they have in common? A Rotary project providing household items for families, refugees or people who had been incarcerated starting new lives in secure accommodation.
Have you a local school you support? Are you looking for new ways to interact with your local schools? Rotary SAFE Families has the solution. We are providing the “Towards Respectful Relationships” program at Melbourne schools. This is an outstanding opportunity for young people to become informed of the need for respectful relationships rather than the traumatic impact of an abusive relationship.
An article from Anne Josefsberg, Rotary Club of Canterbury At a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Canterbury there was a hive of activity as members packed birthing kits on behalf of Birthing Kits Foundation Australia (BKFA).
On Sunday the 12th of July, Norm England was inducted as the Altona City Rotary Club President for the 2026 - 27 Rotary Year. Norm must know a lot of people as the venue was full (approximately 80 people) and has set the bar pretty high for whoever comes in next. It was an opportunity to showcase the year's achievements and to honour those who have had made significant contributions to the club and to welcome a new member to the club.
Using the Rotary Theme of Create Lasting Impact, President Norm's action plan is as follows:
Raise membership by 10%
Conduct a community needs analysis
Conduct one major project
Conduct a major International Project
One on ones with club members
We wish President Norm a great and succesful year adding value to the Rotary Theme: Creating Lasting Impact
We are seeking your assistance in reaching out to members of D9800 to assist with an incoming ROMAC patient.
John Nauka from Tanna Island Vanuatu is 4 yrs old and has a club foot which needs correction. He will be accompanied by Mary who has good English.
John’s arrival has been delayed due to an injury to the foot needing surgery. The surgeon has finally agreed that the foot is now healthy enough to operate on.
Johns surgery will be done at St Vincent's Private in the city following initial consultations which will be on August 12th.
We urgently need assistance with home hosting and /or attending medical appointments until end of September. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Rotary at work and be part of changing a child’s life forever.
We have hosted many children and can guarantee that you receive far more than you give! No medical experience is necessary, just a loving heart.
For further information do not hesitate to contact me,
Our speaker at our last meeting was Trent Bartel of the PFI Fersa Engineering Group. Trents comapany was a silver sponsor at our recent charity golf day and mentioned his own charity work.
He spoke of a charity golf day he was running in August and that moneys raised would go to Challenge - An Organisation that provides funding for children with cancer.
We were pleased to announce on the night, we would be providing $500 towards Challenge and support the golf day. Details to follow in the next edition.
A fabulous turnout with 23 people attending and hearing from Joan Roose and her work with the Jacob’s Well Foundation. Jacob’s Well hopes to break the poverty cycle by sinking fresh water wells in villages, establishing health and resource centres and providing life changing education for children from tribal villages and the slums. https://www.jacobswell.org.au/our-vision
Joan gave us an update on a child we had sponsored and how she was progressing as well as other improtant projects. Thanks Joan for the update.
We also had David Berner and Robert Mason from the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed who spoke about the Mystery Box Rally raising funds for cancer research with a car rally that lasts for several days. https://www.mysteryboxrally.com.au/rallies
Our club will be making sizeable donations to both organisations.
July was an exciting first month as District Governor with many amazing and varied events and activities across our District. These included multiple Club Changeovers celebrating achievements and renewal. Special events included a Health & Wellbeing Forum for Youth, a National Science and Engineering challenge, a classic Rotary Art Show in its 61st year, the chartering of a Rotaract Club and a Radio Interview. 
Daylesford Rotary’s annual Changeover on the 9th of July was a celebration of many achievements by the Club and by individual members. Mark Rak was inducted as the incoming Club President for the coming 6 months and also received Paul Harris Fellow recognition for his major contributions to our community and Rotary.
Seventy-two microwave ovens, ninety-two floor mops, forty-two kettles and thirty toasters – what do they have in common? A Rotary project providing household items for families, refugees or people who had been incarcerated starting new lives in secure accommodation.
At a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Canterbury there was a hive of activity as members packed birthing kits on behalf of Birthing Kits Foundation Australia (BKFA). 
Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club
