District Governor Rita Zappulla has kicked off the 2026–2027 Rotary year with a message focused on impact, inclusion and growth across Rotary District 9560.

The Governor's video update is featured below. Please click on the image to play the video. Clubs are encouraged to share the video with members and, where possible, play it at a club meeting so all members can hear the latest district news, opportunities and priorities for the year ahead.

This year's Rotary International Presidential Message, Create Lasting Impact, challenges Rotarians to look beyond immediate outcomes and consider the long-term difference their projects and service activities make.

Whether supporting an individual, strengthening a community or contributing to Rotary's global initiatives, every action has the potential to create positive change that lasts for years to come.

A key message from District Governor Rita Zappulla this year is ALLSORTS.

The theme recognises that successful Rotary clubs are built on the contributions of people from all backgrounds, ages, professions and experiences. It is a reminder to embrace tolerance, patience and acceptance, while valuing the different skills, perspectives and networks that each member brings to Rotary.

The strength of Rotary lies in its diversity, and it takes ALLSORTS of people to make clubs thrive.

The beginning of a new Rotary year provides clubs with an opportunity to reset, refocus and plan for the future.

With new leadership teams taking office, clubs are encouraged to review their vision, set meaningful goals and consider not only what they want to achieve in the next 12 months, but where they want to be in three and five years' time.

Clear goals provide direction, build momentum and help ensure clubs remain vibrant and relevant in their communities.

To support clubs throughout the year, District 9560 has released its 2026–2027 District Action Plan, focusing on membership growth, club vitality, public image, service and Foundation support. Key priorities include growing membership, increasing club visibility, strengthening engagement, supporting Rotary Foundation programs, conducting club visioning and planning activities, and ensuring every club remains active in service within its community.

Clubs are encouraged to incorporate these goals into their own planning and to use them as a guide when setting local priorities for the year ahead.

One of the simplest ways clubs can support Rotary's public image is by promoting the great work they are already doing.

District 9560 is encouraging all clubs to maintain an active online presence and regularly share stories, photos and achievements through social media and local media outlets. Every project, fundraiser and community partnership is an opportunity to showcase Rotary's impact and attract future members and supporters.

This year the district is introducing a special challenge to support Rotary's mission to eradicate polio.

The first five clubs to contribute USD $1,000 to End Polio Now will receive a matching USD $1,000 contribution from the district.

In addition, the first 50 Rotarians who donate USD $100 will have their contribution matched dollar-for-dollar by the district.

The challenge complements the district's broader focus on supporting The Rotary Foundation and PolioPlus throughout the year. Clubs are also encouraged to support Foundation giving through initiatives such as fundraising events, Annual Fund contributions and Paul Harris recognition programs.  

July's Rotary theme is Maternal and Child Health, one of Rotary's seven Areas of Focus.

Around the world, Rotary supports programs that improve access to healthcare, vaccinations and medical services for mothers and young children. Clubs are encouraged to recognise this focus area during July by exploring local opportunities for service, inviting guest speakers, or learning more about how Rotary projects continue to improve outcomes for families globally.

Clubs are reminded to enter their goals into Rotary Club Central in My Rotary and regularly monitor progress throughout the year.

Tracking goals provides a valuable way to measure success, celebrate achievements and identify areas where additional support may be required. Regular review of club data can help maintain momentum and encourage member engagement.

The district's monthly information sessions are now underway, with the next session focusing on My Rotary.

These sessions provide practical guidance on topics including goal setting, club administration, branding, accessing Rotary resources and using the Learning Centre.

Members are also encouraged to utilise the district's Moodle learning platform, where training presentations, resources and recordings are available for review at any time.

Information sessions are generally held on the last Monday of each month, with details available on the district website.

The updated District Directory is now available through the district website and SharePoint platform. The resource continues to be expanded and includes information such as:

• District Governor club visit schedules
• New member induction resources
• Paul Harris Recognition information
• AGM guidance
• Foundation banking information
• Administrative support resources

Clubs with changes to secretary or administrative roles are reminded to ensure district email account access is transferred correctly and that any required updates to two-factor authentication are submitted through a systems support request.

The district has also distributed a short club survey which will help identify ways the district can better support clubs in achieving their goals and strengthening member experiences.

Congratulations to several clubs celebrating significant anniversaries this month:

Rotary Club of Port of Townsville

60 Years of Service

The club recently reached the remarkable milestone of 60 years of service to the Townsville community and will celebrate the occasion at a special event in September.

Rotary Club of Tully

85 Years of Service

Celebrating 85 years on 14 July, the Rotary Club of Tully continues to demonstrate the impact small clubs can have within their communities.

Rotary Club of Blackwater

55 Years of Service

The Rotary Club of Blackwater celebrates 55 years of dedicated service on 20 July.

District 9560 congratulates all three clubs on their outstanding achievements and commitment to service above self.

Rotarians are encouraged to mark 3 March 2027 in their calendars.

District 9560 will welcome Past Rotary International President Jennifer Jones to Cairns for a special Rotary Foundation fundraising event.

As Rotary International's first female President, Jennifer Jones is recognised globally as an inspiring speaker and leader. The evening will feature a $1 Million Gala Fundraising Dinner supporting The Rotary Foundation and will bring together Rotarians from across the district for a truly memorable occasion.

More information will be released as planning progresses.

The year ahead presents exciting opportunities for clubs across District 9560 to strengthen membership, support communities, grow Rotary's visibility and create meaningful, lasting impact.

Clubs are encouraged to reach out to their Rotary Community Leaders and district team whenever support is required, and most importantly, to enjoy the Rotary journey while making a difference in their communities.

If you need help accessing your club's district email account, please lodge a support request with our District Systems Team.