Rotary Clubs were first formed in 1905 in Chicago and are now in over 200 countries

Rotary is about individuals from significantly different backgrounds and nationalities coming together with a common goal of building better communities, both locally and internationally. Today with more than 1.2 million members and 33,000 RotaryClubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas Rotary really does have the resources to make a difference.

RotaryClubs are nonpolitical, nonreligious and open to all cultures, races and creeds with the motto of Service Above Self, Rotary’s primary objective is service. 

This is achieved through structured Rotary activities such as youth leadership camps, international youth and employment related exchanges, international and local aid programs and promotion of peace.

Rotary also works in a close partnership with the United Nations having had 49 Rotarians help draft the UN Charter in 1945 and currently holds the highest consultative status offered to a nongovernmental organization by the UN’s Economic and Social Council.

Rotary Clubs are autonomous and participate in structured programs or devise their own according to the particular RotaryClub’s goals. Most RotaryClubs actively or financially participate in international aid programs and all are active within their local communities in providing both hands on and financial support to needy organizations as selected by each Club.

The achieving of these goals involves individual members working together not only in fund raising but participating in the hands on projects. There is a personal sense of satisfaction from these achievements and enduring friendships are made.

Rotary is not only about service, social activities, which often include family members, are a very important part of Rotary Clubs and these further enhance the enjoyment of being a Rotarian. 

Rotary also fosters personal development through individual participation in RotaryClubs activities and the opportunity to accept both District and International organizational and leadership roles. The extent of participation is entirely at the discretion of each individual.   

Being a member of Rotary Clubs offers opportunities for both local and international travel are numerous with District and International Conferences held annually. Home hosting is regularly available to Rotarians traveling within Australia and Overseas.