Aaron Violi (Casey, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Rotary started with the vision of one man: Paul Harris in Chicago. He formed the Rotary Club of Chicago in 1905, so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Over time, Rotary's reach and vision gradually extended to humanitarian service. That commitment endures today through an organisation that remains truly international. Rotary members now span the globe, working to solve problems of some of the world's most challenging problems, locally and internationally. In Casey, Rotary clubs contribute significantly to our communities. I was at Healesville Rotary to celebrate the president changeover from Michael to Vinay. It was also a special occasion for Eckhard, who was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow, one of the highest honours a Rotarian can receive, for 30 years of service.

The Rotary club of Lilydale has a rich history of 'service above self'. One f the best projects run by Lilydale Rotary is the Lilydale craft and product market, which is held on the first Sunday of every month. I was pleased to attend their changeover dinner, also in June, and see their incoming president Jenny Selway continue the great work of Madalyn Parlet. The Rotary Club of Upper Yarra welcomed new president David Chandler in July. I was honoured to be there with Mayor Jim Child to celebrate the changeover from Paul Coleman, who had served for two years as president. Congratulations and thank you to all our Rotary clubs in Casey.