As President, my focus this year is to make Melville Rotary stronger, more relevant, and more connected to our community, in line with Rotary International's theme of "Create Lasting Impact." To achieve this, I will focus on three priorities: membership, engagement and income. We currently have 47 members, and my goal is to grow this by 10% through quality membership, attracting committed people—particularly those of working age (a 50% KPI)—while creating more opportunities for fellowship, networking and community connection through additional evening events and more purposeful meetings. We will strengthen member engagement by ensuring every project has a champion, encouraging broader participation in meeting roles, developing deputy committee chairs to build succession, and fostering an open, inclusive culture where every member feels their ideas are valued. Finally, we must improve our financial resilience by reducing our reliance on a single income source and exploring new opportunities such as corporate sponsorships, business partnerships, grants, investment options and fundraising events that also promote membership. Success will depend on the involvement of every member, and I encourage everyone to contribute their ideas and help shape the future of our club.
Dale Cole
Rotary of Melville President 2026/27
0419 528 556
Stephen Knight from Saling On Inc.
Stephen was our speaker at our meeting on the 22/7/26.
Sailing On aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of current and former Australian Defence Force members.
They provide the opportunity to take part in the repair and sailing of yachts, helping you feel happier and more connected through learning new skills, being part of a team and supporting each other in a relaxed environment.
Knitting Group in the Rug Room Finished Wheelchairs
This week I visited the warehouse where the Wheelchairs are produced and shipped overseas with my knitting group. We make rugs for the children that go with the wheelchairs. I was amazed at the size and organisation that has gone into producing and packaging these chairs for overseas disabled children.
They have 30 volunteers working on the factory floor 5 days a week. When a shipment is ready to be sent, there are volunteers' schoolteachers from nearby schools who pack up the heavy boxes into a container.
The Rotary Club of Scarborough are their main supporters. I recommend if you can, visit and see for yourself the organisation that has gone into this project.
