21 February 2019

Highlights from the Victorian Multi District Conference

Number of us from Rotary Club of Southbank attended the first ever Victorian Multi District Conference (MDC) at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15th February 2019 till 17th February 2019.

Over 1,500 Rotarians and guests attended who came from the Victoria state, interstate and overseas. Rotary International Director-Elect Dr. Stephanie Urchick who is a member of the Rotary Club of Canonsburg-Houston Southpointe, USA (District 7330) was the Rotary International President Representative for this conference who was referred by Immediate Past Rotary International President Ian Risely himself!

Several keynote speakers like Lord Mayor of Melbourne Sally Capp, Founder of Pride Cup Jason Ball, Victoria's former Chief Commissioner of Police Christine Nixon and others spoke at the conference to share their stories and success that has a positive impact to communities dear to our heart.

At the start of the conference, the Peace Through Service Summit was held that brought together academics, political leaders, businesses, community leaders and peace activists to explore building peace and how Rotary can work with others to prevent and resolve conflict from international and local perspectives. It also highlighted the areas in which Rotary does its most significant work and by looking at Peace through Rotary's six (6) Areas of Focus to best leverage our service.

In addition to the conference, Youth Social Impact Forum were held featuring a range of inspiring speakers who work across a variety of community groups, non-profits and social enterprises, to learn from the very best when it comes to creating positive change within communities. This wouldn't be possible without the stewardship from Assistant Governor (Batman) Dale Hoy and his team members who made this a success - massive congratulations!

Towards the end of the conference, we celebrated Past District Governor (1992-1993) Gordon McKern, OAM from Rotary Club of Eaglehwak Service Above Self award for his contribution to Rotary particularly in championing the Bone Marrow Donor Institute (BMDI) Rotary House in North Melbourne back in 1999.