Club Secretary Basics
Tips, tricks and the absolute must-doβs in the Club Secretary role.
Register for Session 1 βA new Rotary year begins
Join Rotarians, partners, and guests for an inspiring evening of connection, recognition, and new beginnings.
We'll honour a landmark year under District Governor Peter Behm and welcome incoming District Governor Emma Clark and the 2026β2027 leadership team.
But a Changeover is far more than a badge handover. It's one of those rare nights where the whole District 9815 story comes alive in one room β clubs reuniting, friendships rekindling, and new ideas spark over dinner. You'll leave reminded that your club is part of something much bigger.
Expect stories that matter, people doing extraordinary things, and opportunities you didn't know existed. One conversation can spark a new project, an international connection, or the confidence to step into a bigger role yourself. Even seasoned Rotarians walk out saying, βI had no idea we were doing all this.β
And yes β there's the fun too. The laughter, the photos, the elegant chaos of finding your table, and that unmistakable buzz of a fresh Rotary year beginning.
Come for the leadership. Stay for the energy. Leave inspired.
Everything you need to thrive in the role
You are the quiet engine of your club.
When a club runs well, a great Secretary is usually the reason. Whether youβre brand new to the role or have years behind you, an hour or two now will save you many more across the year ahead β with less guesswork, more confidence, and a few βI didnβt know it could do thatβ moments. Come to one session or both. Free, online, and made for you.
Tips, tricks and the absolute must-doβs in the Club Secretary role.
Register for Session 1 βEverything you want to know, and should know!
Register for Session 2 βYour club counts on you β give yourself the head start you deserve. Register today.
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Past District Governor Merv Williams joined the Board of RAWCS in 2019 and served as National Projects and Volunteers Manager for six years. This is one of the most time demanding roles of our volunteer Board, which Merv fulfilled with distinction.
This period required that RAWCS pivot to cope with Covid and the cessation of overseas travel for volunteer teams, whilst striving to continue the meaningful impact of existing projects.
With the level of uncertainty surrounding overseas projects and the sustainability of charities and Not for Profitβs during and post Covid, Merv joined the Committee of Management and made a significant contribution. His excellent reporting was a feature of this crucial time.
During Past District Governor Mervβs tenure, he helped establish and had oversight of RAWCS Disaster Response Committee and made a significant contribution to developing an effective Disaster Response capability including further developing the processes and governance of the Rotary Australia Relief Fund and Rotary Australia Compassionate Grants.
Following Covid restrictions, Merv took to the road in his caravan, however he didnβt neglect his role with RAWCS, always maintaining his availability to Projects and Volunteers. Many projects eventuated because of his guidance and support.
We acknowledge Past District Governor Merv Williams
Presidents' Meeting and District Club Awards Celebrate a Year of LeadershipOn Friday 29 May 2026, the Presidents of District 9815 gathered for their final Presidents' Meeting of the Rotary year. More than simply the last meeting on the calendar, it marked the culmination of a year-long journey of leadership, learning and collaboration.
The Presidents' Meetings play a vital role in the success of Rotary Clubs across the District. Throughout the year, Club Presidents come together to learn from District leaders and subject matter experts, gaining access to new ideas, proven strategies and practical tools to strengthen their Clubs. Topics such as membership, public image, community engagement, leadership development, fundraising and service projects all contribute to helping Clubs become more vibrant, visible and impactful within their communities.
Equally important is the opportunity for Presidents to learn from one another. Every Club faces different challenges and opportunities, and the meetings provide a forum for sharing experiences, successes and innovative approaches. These conversations often spark new ideas that can be adapted and implemented within individual Clubs, improving both the member experience and the Club's ability to serve its community.
Over the course of the year, the meetings also foster strong relationships between Club leaders. These connections create a valuable support network, encouraging collaboration, mutual assistance and the sharing of resources across the District. As a result, Presidents return to their Clubs better equipped to lead and with a broader perspective on what is possible through Rotary.
The evening concluded with the District Club Awards, recognising the Clubs that had excelled in key areas throughout the year. While the awards celebrated outstanding achievement, they also highlighted the collective commitment of Clubs across District 9815 to continuous improvement and community impact.
Congratulations to all award recipients, whose achievements have set a benchmark for excellence and provided inspiration for others to strive towards. Their success demonstrates what can be achieved when strong leadership, a willingness to learn and a commitment to improvement come together in service of Rotary's mission.
Please feel free to view the many photos from the night captured by our photographer Alannah Vidic-Wirth, and edited by Mat Wise (Rotaract Club of Casey-Cardinia) Click HERE
Rotary District 9815
Celebrating the clubs recognised at the final Presidentsβ Meeting on 29 May 2026 β across the Gold, Silver and Bronze Governorβs Awards and the District Specialist Awards. Select any club to visit its website.
Welcome to our Rotary Stories seriesβreal conversations with passionate Rotarians making a difference, locally and globally.
Whether you're curious about joining Rotary, looking to grow your club, or want to be inspired, these stories will give you insight, ideas, and a glimpse into the heart of Rotary.