District Changeover Climax of Changeover Season

Rotary District 9800

The District 9800 Governor baton was handed to incoming District Governor Graeme Hope by District Governor Peter Shepheard at a celebratory musical luncheon at the Hawthorn Arts Centre on Saturday June 27th. The new DG is a member of the Rotary Club of Camberwell. Among the celebrations were a number of Glenferrie Rotarians (see picture), including two who will form part of the District Leadership Team in 2026-27: PP Cheryl Pisterman will continue in her role as District Public Image Chair, and PP Richard Blakeman will head up the District International Service Committee. The theme of the event was collaboration - and belonging -with the focus for the new year being on member recruitment, retention and engagement, and an emphasis on connecting with the next generation of Rotarians. The music was provided by members of the Rotaract Music Makers Club, supported by virtuoso performances by professional opera singer, PDG Michael Lapiña. The club's Boroondara Farmers Market project was officialy recognised with a ‘Shep’s Shoutout' award.

Fine food, fine wine, good friends and good music. Glenferrie Rotarians were all smiles at District Changeover on Saturday. (Also at the event but not pictured, Maria Pantling and Richard Blakeman)

 

District Changeover 2026 - DG Peter Shepheard and DGE Graeme Hope

Club presidents receive their club recognition awards, this year renamed ‘Shep’s Shoutouts'
The Rotary Club of Glenferrie's recognition certificate, presented to President Helena Wimpole representing the club
MC, and opera virtuoso, PDG Michael Lapiña
PDG Murray Verson presented Robert McGuirk, Rotary Club of Melbourne, with the Robert M. Fels Peace Award for his work with End Trachoma
District Governor Peter Shepheard
Induction of District Governor 2026-27 Graeme Hope, with Sue