WELCOME OUR NEW 2026-2027 PORT PHILLIP ROTARY PRESIDENT BRONWYN MADDOCK
The Rotary Club of Port Phillip’s annual changeover dinner sparkled with festive energy. Outgoing President Wendy reflected on a fantastic year, while the club joyously pinned the presidential collar on incoming President Bronwyn, kicking off a new year of community service and a promise to "CREATE LASTING IMPACT".
The room was buzzing with laughter and clinking glasses as over fifty members and special guests packed the warmly lit function room at The Cricketers in Port Melbourne. The room was alive with energy, setting the perfect stage for an evening of celebration, friendship, and community impact.
After reflecting on some of the year’s activities, it was time for one last duty for the outgoing president and that was to congratulate and pin the Paul Harris Award on a very worthy candidate, Milla Forni Garcia. Wendy then carefully unfastened the heavy, polished brass and enamel presidential collar from her shoulders. With a warm embrace, she draped it over the incoming President, Bronwyn.
Bronwyn, a passionate Rotarian known for her boundless energy and clever ideas, took the floor with a grin. Bronwyn's family were in the audience to cheer her on including her 99 year young mother, Audrey and her rock, her husband Brian. She proudly announced that the theme for the upcoming term would be "Create Lasting Impact". Bronwyn laid out her vision for the year, which included partnering with Battle of the Bands and local primary schools to set up EarlyAct Clubs mentorship programs. The partnership with Battle of the Bands, Middle Park Primary School and Rotary, is a pilot that hopefully will encourage other Rotary Clubs to embrace within their local communities.
Trudy (Bron's sister), Audrey and Bronwyn Bronwyn and District Governor Peter Shepheard
"We have the power to change lives, one project at a time. I can't wait to see what we achieve together this year!”
The energy in the room surged. Following the speeches, members wasted no time jumping into the spirit of the night. A raffle followed and the proceeds that will go to Lili Teichman’s Nourish program and some towards the Battle of the Bands.
The night drew to a close with lively conversation and the planning of upcoming service projects. Members left the changeover dinner feeling inspired, deeply connected, and ready to roll up their sleeves to do good in the community.