Join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, philanthropy and celebration at the Million Dollar Foundation Gala Dinner, to be held at the Pullman Cairns International on Wednesday 3 March 2027.
This prestigious event will feature Jennifer Jones, former President of Rotary International and current Chair of The Rotary Foundation, as keynote speaker. Guests will hear firsthand about the extraordinary impact being made through Rotary’s global network and one of the world’s most respected charitable foundations.
The Gala Dinner forms part of Rotary District 9560’s journey towards raising US$1 million for The Rotary Foundation, supporting projects that improve health, expand education, provide clean water, support disaster recovery and strengthen communities both locally and around the world.
Bringing together Rotarians, Rotaractors, business leaders, professionals, community leaders and philanthropists from across Queensland, the Northern Territory and beyond, the evening will provide the perfect opportunity to network, celebrate and support a worthy cause.
Jennifer Jones is a respected global leader, humanitarian and advocate for service who made history as Rotary International’s first female President. Her leadership has inspired Rotary members around the world, demonstrating the power of innovation, inclusion and community impact. Her work has highlighted Rotary’s efforts in peacebuilding, disease prevention, education, environmental sustainability and community development, helping bring international attention to the positive impact of Rotary’s global network.
Today, Jennifer serves as the Chair of The Rotary Foundation, one of the world’s leading charitable foundations. The Rotary Foundation in 2024-2025 provided over US $330 million in grants. In this role, she helps guide the Foundation’s work in supporting humanitarian projects that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Jennifer’s presence at the Million Dollar Foundation Gala Dinner provides guests with a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of Rotary’s most influential leaders. Her experience, insights and passion for service will inspire attendees while highlighting the transformative impact that philanthropy can have on communities both locally and globally.
As Rotary District 9560 works towards the significant milestone of raising $1 million for The Rotary Foundation, Jennifer’s participation reflects the importance of this achievement and the collective efforts of Rotary members, partners and supporters who are committed to making a lasting difference in the world.
Jennifer is a respected global leader!
The $1 million milestone represents a bold commitment by Rotary District 9560 to creating lasting change through The Rotary Foundation.
Every contribution helps fund projects that improve health, expand education, provide clean water, support disaster recovery and strengthen communities both locally and around the world.
Achieving this milestone will reflect the collective generosity of Rotary members, businesses and community partners across our region, demonstrating what can be accomplished when people unite behind a shared vision of service, leadership and philanthropy.
More than a fundraising target, $1 million represents a legacy of impact that will benefit communities for years to come and help Rotary continue delivering meaningful projects where they are needed most.
Our One Million Dollar Challenge is a special fundraising initiative designed to raise $1 million for The Rotary Foundation.
The campaign will focus on three key categories:
Bequests: encouraging members and supporters to leave a lasting legacy in their will.
Cash Donations: through individual and corporate contributions.
Member Giving: leveraging the strength of our district’s 1,800 Rotarians, whose collective support can create a significant impact.
This Gala Dinner will serve as the celebration of our District’s achievement, bringing together supporters and donors to recognise the collective effort that enabled our district to reach the $1 million milestone.
This event is an opportunity to celebrate generosity, leadership and the power of collective impact. Guests will come together to recognise the achievements of Rotary and The Rotary Foundation, hear inspiring stories of service, and explore how partnerships can create meaningful change in communities around the world.
The evening will provide a memorable experience while reinforcing a shared commitment to building a better future through philanthropy and service.
The Pullman Cairns International is offering a 20% discount for all attendees of this event.
To book and receive this discount, simply click on the button below and be taken to the dedicated website to receive this discount.
The Million Dollar Foundation Gala Dinner will provide a special opportunity to recognise and celebrate the generosity of individuals and families from across District 9560 who have made significant contributions to The Rotary Foundation. Throughout the evening, we will acknowledge our Major Donors and other Foundation supporters whose commitment to Rotary’s mission has helped create lasting change in communities locally and around the world.
Their generosity has supported projects that improve health, expand educational opportunities, provide clean water, strengthen communities and promote peace. As District 9560 works towards the milestone of US$1 million in Foundation giving, this event will honour those whose philanthropy and leadership continue to inspire others to make a difference.
The Gala Dinner will be a celebration of service, generosity and the remarkable impact that can be achieved when people choose to invest in a better future for others.
Ends 31st October 2026
The full program will be made available in due course, however an interim program is as follows:
5.30pm: Pre-dinner welcome drinks and canapes
6.00pm: Formalities commence, including Keynote Presentation by Jennifer Jones
9.00pm: Formalities conclude
10:00pm Event concludes
Tickets include welcome drink on arrival, canapes and a two course dinner (alternate drop).
Why not turn your visit to the Million Dollar Foundation Gala Dinner into a tropical getaway?
Cairns is the gateway to two of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest. Visitors can enjoy reef cruises, snorkelling and diving, explore Kuranda and the Atherton Tablelands, experience Indigenous cultural attractions, relax along the Cairns Esplanade, or venture north to Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation.
With warm tropical weather, outstanding dining and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, Cairns offers the perfect destination to combine a memorable Rotary event with an unforgettable holiday.
