We have had a great start to the new Rotary year, with several highlights setting a very positive tone for the months ahead.
Most notable was the induction of Her Excellency Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, as an Honorary Member of Sydney Rotary on Friday 3 July at Admiralty House in Kirribilli. Sixty-five members, partners and representatives of our partner organisations attended. Her Excellency was a warm and generous host, and we look forward to welcoming her to future Sydney Rotary gatherings.
We also held two excellent Club lunch meetings during July. Conrad Burge of Fiducian provided an economic outlook and market commentary for the year ahead, while PDG Jeremy Wright AO launched our "How to Save the World" sustainability talks with an engaging presentation on the vital role bees play in pollination, biodiversity and food production.
Looking ahead, the Club calendar for August offers strong opportunities for community service and fellowship. On 4 August, we will welcome Police Officer of the Year nominees from the Sydney City Police Area Command, together with senior colleagues and family members. We will recognise their service, with the State Police Officer of the Year Awards to follow on Friday 6 November 2026.
On 18 August, the Club will welcome RI Director PDG Jennifer Scott to lunch. As the most senior Rotarian in Australia, Jennifer will share insights into Rotary's global direction, policies, plans and programs. This is an important opportunity for RCS members and other Rotarians to hear directly from a senior Rotary International leader.
Finally, on 29 and 30 August, Sydney Rotary members, coordinated by Mark Dyer, will support the annual MS MegaSwim. Swimmers and BBQ volunteers are needed for this overnight fundraiser, which supports research, treatments and services for people living with multiple sclerosis.
Looking further ahead, I would like to highlight two additional events. The first is our Tuesday Club lunch on 20 October 2026, when we will welcome the Hon. Bob Carr, former NSW Premier and Minister for Foreign Affairs, who will share his perspectives on the global state of affairs and the implications for Australia.
The second is an away day on Thursday 19 November with members of the Rotary Club of Greater Blue Mountains at the Carrington Hotel in Katoomba. Members will enjoy the Blue Mountains before gathering for a cocktail and light dinner function supporting community heart defibrillators for remote communities. We anticipate 70 Rotarians and friends. Discounted accommodation and guided tour options will be available.
Please make every effort to join us for our Tuesday Club lunches and take up the opportunities for service and fellowship offered by our Club in the months ahead.