District Governor Graeme visited Glenferrie with his wife Sue at our meeting on 29 September. Graeme, a Camberwell Rotarian, who was introduced by Chair Cheryl Pisterman, is a retired Chartered Accountant and married to Sue for more than 50 years – they must have been teenagers!
Graeme began his presentation with a short video of RI President “Yinka’s” ideas for Rotary in 2026-2027 and a slide illustrating the District’s Goals (see graphic & discussion on the next page next page).
Members have a Great Club Experience
He had to confirm that he and Sue were enjoying the fellowship at Glenferrie and this was something that the club was obviously achieving. It was also obvious that the venue helped with the atmosphere in the room.Connect with the Next Generation
This was very important and he was pleased to note that with his meeting with the Glenferrie Board the success of the meeting the previous week showed that Glenferrie was being proactive in connecting with RYLArians, Rotoractors, and alumni of Rotary programs.
Graeme reinforced the fact that the Rotary model had changed; younger people want hands-on involvement not just turn up to a meal, ie “service centric” not “meeting centric”. He also stressed the importance of being involved with Rotoract and engage with RYLA.Growing Membership
Rotary needs to be “flexible”. It is important to refresh the club website and be involved in Social Media. He was pleased to note that Glenferrie was utilising the services of a young person working with promoting Glenferrie. He also suggested that a membership event should be considered.Support and Leverage the Rotary Foundation
Graeme reinformed the importance of our Foundation (with quite a bit of nodding from certain members in the audience). He commented that the District should be proud that it leads the world in its provision of Peace Scholars and Global Scholars – funded through the Rotary Foundation.
Peace Poles are proliferating throughout the District and clubs are being encouraged to install them in schools and other public areas.
At the end of his presentation, Graeme thanked the club for its contribution to the Rotary Foundation and presented President Chris with a Club Level 1 certificate: USD$100 per member contribution. It was also noted that Glenferrie members were generous personal contributors to The Rotary Foundation.
President Chris thanked Graeme and Sue for visiting Glenferrie and hoped that they continue to enjoy their Governor’s year.