Australian Rotary Health I Annual Report 2023-24 by Australian Rotary Health

Annual Report

2023-2024

OUR VISION

It is our vision to be a catalyst for projects that improve quality of life.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to create better health for all Australians through improved education and advancements in knowledge through medical research. We support excellence in research in an effort to provide both preventative and curative solutions for a broad range of health conditions.

WHO WE ARE

Australian Rotary Health (ARH) is one of the largest independent funders of mental health research within Australia. In addition to mental health research, we also provide funding into a broad range of general health areas, provide scholarships for rural medical and nursing students, as well as Indigenous health students. Australian Rotary Health has a broad vision to improve the health and wellbeing of all Australians.

WHAT WE DO

Mental Health Research

Since the year 2000, Australian Rotary Health has focussed its funding on mental health research. In 2012 this focus narrowed to the mental health of young Australians (aged 0-25). In 2013 research projects focussing on the prevention of mental health disorders were included. In 2021, we announced that our research will focus on the 0-12 age group.

Lift the Lid on Mental Illness is our national mental health fundraising campaign, which encompasses our most successful fundraising campaign, Hat Day.

General Health Research

Australian Rotary Health engages with a variety of funding partners to provide PhD Scholarships in research. These projects encompass a broad range of general health areas including cancer, heart disease, children’s health, motor neurone disease, diabetes and more.

Disseminating Research Information to the Public

By funding research which is community-focussed, Australian Rotary Health aims to promote research findings to the public.

Rural Medical & Nursing Scholarships

Australian Rotary Health provides scholarships for medical and nursing students to undertake placements at a rural and remote health care service. Students experience what these facilities have to offer and provide an incentive for recipients to pursue a career in rural Australia upon graduation.

Indigenous Health Scholarships

These scholarships support Indigenous students to undertake tertiary training in medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, psychology, dentistry, and other health related degrees at university. These scholarships help Indigenous students to overcome barriers to tertiary study and qualification.

Chair’s Report

2023-24

It is my great pleasure to present my first annual report as the Chair of Australian Rotary Health, a role that I am greatly honoured to hold.

Following our decision last year to move our mental health research focus to “Improving the Mental Health of 0-12 year olds’’ we awarded 12 Research Project Grants, 3 Post Doctoral Fellowships and 1 PhD Scholarship in this area of important research. We look forward to the results of these research grants in the next few years. As an indication of the impact that research can have, we recently heard from 2008-2011 Royce Abbey Fellow Associate Professor Elizabeth Scarr who investigated changes in brain chemistry associated with schizophrenia, with the aim of advancing treatment options for individuals with the disorder. Through her research, Associate Professor Scarr discovered a decrease in muscarinic receptors — proteins that regulate the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter — in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia. These findings provided critical insights into the biological mechanisms of the disorder.

“This project is innovative in combining the power of stem cells with revolutionary bioprinting techniques to produce an improved synthesised skin tissue.”

Nearly 17 years later, in October of this year, the FDA approved a new drug for schizophrenia that targets these muscarinic receptors. Associate Professor Scarr notes, “ my work … provide(d) support for the drug company to develop and test the original version of the drug which was then modified to the version that has been approved,” and she acknowledged the pivotal role of ARH’s support in contributing to this

PHD SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT MITCHELL ST CLAIR-GLOVER.

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ELIZABETH SCARR.

significant breakthrough for those affected by schizophrenia.

Our Funding Partner Program continues to receive good support from clubs and Districts and gives young researchers a great opportunity to get started in the research world.

These PhD scholarships are co-funded with Rotary Clubs, Rotary District/s or individual Rotarians, a university and ARH. A great example of the amazing work being done by these young researchers is ARH funded final year PhD candidate Mitchell St Clair-Glover who spoke about his research at a recent conference. Mitchell completed an honours degree in 2019 where he was able to derive sensory neurons from human stem cells.

He is building on that work to incorporate these neurons in an innervated human skin model with the ultimate goal of developing a model system to improve reinnervation outcomes of damaged skin tissue.

Amazing work with unlimited potential for the future. This project is innovative in combining the power of stem cells with revolutionary bioprinting techniques to produce an improved synthesised skin tissue. All research grants awarded by Australian Rotary Health are reviewed annually by the Research Committee under the leadership of Professor Jane Pirkis from the University of Melbourne, VIC.

The Committee works at arms-length to the Board and makes research application

recommendations to the Board. I thank them all for their continued service to ARH.

Through the Indigenous Health Scholarships, Australian Rotary Health continues to support the next generation of Indigenous health care providers to achieve an education that will help them assist their communities.

The Indigenous Health Scholarship program is a collaborative project between Australian Rotary Health, participating Rotary Clubs and individuals, and the State and Commonwealth Governments. These scholarships assist Indigenous students in pursuing tertiary education in health related fields at university, while helping them overcome barriers to higher education and obtaining their qualifications. Approximately 20% of Indigenous doctors in Australia came through the ARH Indigenous Health Scholarship program.

Recently, an alumni known as ‘ARH First Nations Alumni’ was formed as an advisory committee to ARH, to mentor future scholars, to promote the program and to provide network opportunities. A regular newsletter is being published. Many thanks to staff member Cheryl Deguara for her dedicated work in the Indigenous area.

The great work continuing to be done by Australian Rotary Health is due to the support of our programs by the many Rotarians, Rotary clubs and non-Rotarians who make donations, both regular and oneoff, to Australian Rotary Health and I thank them very much. Your support is integral to Australian Rotary Health continuing to play an important role in health research in Australia. We are one of the largest non-government providers of mental health research funding

ARH CHAIR, RESEARCH COMMITTEE, PROFESSOR JANE PIRKIS.

PHD SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT MITCHELL ST CLAIR-GLOVER PRESENTING HIS RESEARCH TO THE ROTARY CLUB OF WEST WOLLONGONG, NSW.

Chair’s Report

2023-24 continued

in Australia, something Rotarians across Australia should be very proud of.

Lift the Lid Walks are gaining support around Australia. Walks were recently held by Combined Rotary Clubs of Cairns, QLD, Rotary Club of Townsville Saints, QLD, Rotary Club of Busselton Geographe Bay, WA, Rotary Club of Mooloolaba, QLD, Rotary Club of Moreland, VIC, Rotary Club of Pascoe Vale, VIC, Rotary Clubs of Campbelltown & Magill Sunrise SA, Rotary Club of Coral Coast, QLD, and Rotary Club of Byford, WA, among many others this year. Each walk is focused on mental health and bringing the community together to share a common interest, promoting Rotary and ARH as well as raising valuable funds for mental health research. Many thanks to Kara Geyer, the Principal at The Media Hut, for her ongoing assistance in the promotion of Lift the Lid. We look forward to the numbers of Walks increasing over the next few years.

Our monthly Newsletter is always a great read as it contains all the latest news and updates on ARH activities. Our reach on social media continues to expand.

The District Chairs and their committees continue in their work promoting Australian Rotary Health, our programs and projects, and I acknowledge their efforts and congratulate them. The District Chairs are a critical link between the Board, the District Governors, Districts and clubs across Australia. I thank all District Governors for their continuing support and promotion of our programs which enables our clubs to continue their support and involvement.

Our small but extremely dedicated staff have worked tirelessly again this year to ensure that all our programs run well. I pay special tribute to our CEO Joy Gillett OAM who has served ARH for more than 30 years and whose dedication and commitment to ARH is immeasurable. Also, Office Manager Jenny Towe and Programs Coordinator Cheryl Deguara who have been with Australian Rotary Health for many years, and Monika Pindoria our Communications Officer, whose dedication to their roles and generally to Australian Rotary Health is amazing, and we

“Our small but extremely dedicated staff have worked tirelessly again this year to ensure that all our programs run well.”

could not have better people to work in our organisation.

Our Honorary Research Advisor Emeritus Professor Michael Sawyer OAM maintains an integral role in advising the board in their discussions about research and mental health. It was at Professor Sawyer’s initiative and encouragement that the Board moved our mental health research focus to 0-12 year olds.

To quote Michael: “Each year approximately 14% of Australian children

ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS HOSTED THE CHAIR’S DINNER IN MAY 2024.

“I thank Immediate Past Chair PDG Kevin Shadbolt for his strong leadership over the previous 3 years and, on a personal note, for his support and guidance to me, which I value highly. Kevin led ARH with great distinction.”

experience mental disorders - that is, approximately 500,000 children in this age range suffer from a mental disorder. Furthermore, mental disorders have a major adverse effect on the well-being of children and their families, and on the education outcomes of children. There is evidence that approximately 50% of mental disorders across all age groups have their onset by the age of 14 years. The time between birth and 12 years is a very important developmental period where successes and failures can cascade down the years”.

I thank Immediate Past Chair PDG Kevin Shadbolt for his strong leadership over the previous 3 years and, on a personal note, for his support and guidance to me, which I value highly. Kevin led ARH with great distinction.

I thank all Directors for their dedication and commitment. Many thanks to PDGs Don Ripper and Lorraine Coffey who retired in December 2023, and to DG Representative on the Board Ian McKay who retired at the end of June. This year we were joined by 3 new Directors, PDGs Bob Calvert from Tasmania, Paul Mee from Victoria, and Adrian Roach from NSW. Our nine Directors are elected to a 3-year term on rotation although this can extend to one or more years extra in some circumstances.

At the end of 2024 Directors PDG Michael Buckeridge from Queensland and PDG John Campbell from South Australia will be retiring from the Board and I thank them sincerely for their fantastic contributions to ARH during their term of office.

Congratulations to the winners of the ARH Medal and the Dick White District Award. The ARH Medal is awarded to Betty Kitchener AM for services to ARH through mental health including forums, and her work within two Districts, D9800 previously and now D9660. The Dick White District Award goes to D9620 for services to ARH through multiple LTL Walks and for the promotion to expand LTLW. Also, for support of ARH through the Partner’s Project in 2022/23 and support of mental health initiatives in the district.

Stephen Humphreys

PDG Stephen Humphreys Australian Rotary Health Chair

ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS PRESENTING A LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARD TO PAST CHAIR PDG KEVIN SHADBOLT OAM IN 2023.

CEO’s Report

2023-24

“Improving the Mental Health of 0-12 year olds” remains our primary research focus for the second year. Our research funding, along with funding ‘health scholarships’ has our 2024 commitment reach $2.2 million.

To summarise our 2024 commitment:

• 12 Research Project Grants – Improving the Mental Health of 0-12 year olds

• 3 Post Doctoral Fellowships – Improving the Mental Health of 0-12 year olds

• 1 PhD Scholarship – Improving the Mental Health of 0-12 year olds

• 1 Research Project Grants – Mental Health of Young Australians (final year)

• 1 Post-Doctoral Research Fellowships –Mental Health (final year)

• 30 PhD Research Scholarships – General including Mental Health

• 76 Indigenous Health Scholarships

• 11 Rural Medical Scholarships

• 15 Rural Nursing Scholarships

SUPPORTERS OF AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH

We thank the very special people who are our Friends and Companions, and to the many Clubs and Districts that run special fundraising events for Australian Rotary Health – we thank you. Walks, bike rides, runs, car rallies, golf days, dinners, trivia nights, and numerous events, we thank and acknowledge your great efforts.

I would also like to acknowledge the very special people who chose Australian Rotary Health for a bequest in their Wills. Over the last several years we have received several bequests and I pay tribute to the Rotarians, families and friends who have bequeathed funds to ARH.

I acknowledge the special Rotarians who lost their lives this last year and pay tribute to each of them for their support over the years and acknowledge their great contribution, not just to Australian Rotary Health but to Rotary in general.

JOY GILLETT OAM (LEFT) WITH ARH SCHOLARS AND SUPPORTERS AT THE CHAIR’S DINNER IN MAY 2024.

“We thank and acknowledge the clubs and others that celebrate Hat Day - we love seeing the photos and are very grateful for the donations that are received during this time.”

DISTRICT GOVERNORS AND DISTRICT CHAIRS AND THEIR COMMITTEES

We thank each District Governor for their continuing support and promotion of our programs which enables our clubs to continue their support and involvement. Our District Chairs are the link to the clubs – we acknowledge and thank you.

RESEARCH COMMITTEE

Professor Jane Pirkis PhD, MA, M.Psychol. BA (Hons) at the University of Melbourne, VIC is Chair of the Research Committee. Members have stayed on the committee for many

years, including former Chairs Professors Tony Jorm and Ron Rapee AM. We acknowledge their expertise and advice. All mental health research grants awarded by Australian Rotary Health are reviewed annually by the Research Committee.

PROMOTION

We continue to see increases in our followers on social media. Our electronic newsletters are rapidly increasing their readership along with our printed news and promotional material.

The Lift the Lid on Mental Health campaign which commenced 8 years ago, receives strong support particularly in October during World Mental Health Week. We thank and acknowledge the clubs and others that celebrate Hat Day – we love seeing the photos and are very grateful for the donations that are received during this time.

Lift the Lid Walks, Lift the Lid School Book program with QBD Books and Hat Day are programs which are continuing. The Media Hut, led by Kara Geyer, is acknowledged for their initiatives and ongoing assistance in the promotion of these programs.

HAT DAY AT THE ARH OFFICE – LEFT TO RIGHT: JOY GILLETT OAM CAROLINE GEROYAN, CHERYL DEGUARA AND JENNY TOWE.

STAFF

Australian Rotary Health employs a small staff to manage all programs and the general administration of the organisation. Their dedication and commitment are very much appreciated.

Current staff are:

• Jenny Towe – Office Manager

• Cheryl Deguara – Programs Coordinator

• Monika Pindoria – Communications Officer (part-time)

(Monika is currently on maternity leave and being temporarily replaced by Caroline Geroyan, also part-time).

Again, I pay special tribute to Jenny and Cheryl who have been with Australian Rotary Health for many years. Their dedication to the role and generally to Rotary is wonderful and we could not have better people to work in this organisation. Thank you both. Although Monika only joined the staff last year, and Caroline this year, their contribution has proved invaluable and is also recognised with our thanks.

AMBASSADORS

Most of our former Directors, many past District Chairs and other valuable supporters, proudly have accepted the role as “Ambassador” of Australian Rotary Health and offer their time to help us inform our communities of what ARH does and did in the past. We thank each

and everyone of our Ambassadors and look forward to working with them again.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

I would like to acknowledge all current Directors for their dedication to the role and congratulate them on their achievements.

In 2024 there were 4 Directors meetings held plus the Annual General Meeting. The AGM and one Directors meetings were held by zoom. The Board can have up to 12 Directors which includes the current District Governor, current District Governor Elect and District Governor Nominee.

ARH CHAIR

Stephen Humphreys was elected as Chair at the December 2023 AGM and will serve in this role for three years. I welcome Stephen and thank him for his time, freely given to Australian Rotary Health. I look forward to working with Stephen, supported by Judith over the next few years.

Being based in Sydney, it has been quite a long time since we had a Chair who lived in close proximity to the office. Stephen has a great knowledge of Australian Rotary Health, having been appointed as a Director in 2019.

HONORARY RESEARCH ADVISOR

Emeritus Professor Michael Sawyer OAM remains Honorary Research Advisor to the Board. Michael commenced involvement with Australian Rotary Health as a member of the Research Committee, then Chair for six years and now in an honorary role, assisting the board in their discussions about research and mental health.

Michael set the structure for the current grant and scholarship process and his input into Australian Rotary Health has been vital to our growth and ultimate success. We are very pleased he is remaining our research advisor, and I thank him for his advice and discussion on numerous occasions.

CONCLUSION

Australian Rotary Health plays an important role in mental health research in Australia. It is one of the largest non-government providers of research funds in Australia. Rotarians in Australia can be proud of the achievements of Australian Rotary Health.

Joy Gillett OAM

Australian Rotary Health CEO Joy Gillett

EMERITUS PROFESSOR MICHAEL SAWYER OAM.

Financial Report

2023-24

Our Board

2023-24

CHAIR

PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS

Stephen Humphreys has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since September 2018.

Stephen joined the Rotary Club of Camden in NSW in 2002 and served as Club President in 2008-2009; Chair of the Peace Studies Sub-Committee of the District 9750 Foundation Committee in 2009-10 and served as an Assistant Governor for three years 2010 to 2012. Chair of the District 9750 Conference Committee in 2012 and became District Governor (9675) 2016-17.

Stephen has always had a keen involvement in the community and has previously held committee positions, including President, on the parent bodies of his children’s schools for around 20 years.

He is a keen golfer and has been the President of Camden Golf Club for the past 18 years and a member of the Board of Directors for 20 years. Stephen holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Sydney University and practiced as a community pharmacist for 40 years, retiring 7 years ago. Stephen owned either solely or in partnership 2 pharmacies for 36 years. Stephen is married to Judith, they have three children and five grandchildren. Stephen and Judith live in Camden.

VICE CHAIR

PDG JERRY PILCHER

Jerry Pilcher has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since September 2017. Jerry was born in Peterborough in the UK, where he attended Bedford School. He also met his wife Kerry, a West Australian girl, in London where they married.

Jerry and Kerry moved to Perth in 1974, and in 1988 he joined the Rotary Club of Scarborough, WA, where he was Treasurer for 5 years. Jerry was Club President in 2008–2009 and District Governor for District 9455 in 2015–2016.

Most of Jerry’s working career was with

Snap Printing – for 10 years with the company, including 4 years in Victoria as State Manager. Jerry was employed as Franchising manager – opening new outlets in national and international cities. He also owned a Snap Franchise from 1986–2014.

Jerry enjoyed sailing competitively and was part of a State Championship crew in his last year. He then took up field Hockey at the age of 50. Some of Jerry’s hobbies include sport, reading, crosswords, and Rotary.

DIRECTOR

PDG BERNIE BOTT

Bernie Bott was appointed a Director of Australian Rotary Health in November 2021.

Born to a second-generation farming family with a longstanding commitment to community service in Yarrawonga. From schooling in regional NSW through to life as a boarder at Caulfield Grammar in Melbourne. Bernie returned to the farm and family partnership as a young man determined to contribute to the local community.

In 1999 Bernie began his journey with the Rotary Club of Yarrawonga Mulwala, VIC and subsequently spent three years as Community Director, overseeing the formation of two Probus Clubs during that time. In his service to Rotary District 9790, Bernie was Assistant Governor from 2012 to 2015. He was appointed as District 9790 Governor 2017-2018 and has served as the District Trainer.

Bernie, supported by wife Margaret, looks forward to a continuing role in service to Rotary in the coming years.

DIRECTOR

PDG MICHAEL BUCKERIDGE

Michael Buckeridge was appointed a Director of Australian Rotary Health in November 2021, following a previous stint as Director when he was the inaugural DG representative on the board in 2019.

Michael joined Rotary Club of Mackay, QLD, in 2004 and has held the positions of D9570 RAWCS Chair, Northern Region RABS Chair (D9550, D9570, D9600, D9630, D9640) and D9570 Group 1 Assistant Governor. As District Governor 2019-2020 of District 9570 he spent years working to improve the governance and procedures of the District. Michael was also the chair of the Mackay Mental Health and Wellbeing Fair and was part of the team that raised the funds for an ARH PhD research scholarship.

Michael and his wife Karen live in Mackay. They have three sons and three grandsons. Michael was District Governor for District 9570 2019/20 and is a member of the Rotary Club of Mackay, QLD.

DIRECTOR

PDG BOB CALVERT

Bob joined the Rotary Club of Kangaroo Bay, TAS in 1980. In July 1982 his career pathway took him and his young family to the Northwest Coast of Tasmania where he immediately joined the Somerset club. Bob and his wife Kaye established long lasting friendships whilst supporting Rotary and community activities throughout the district.

A Rotarian of some 43 years, as part of several clubs including Flagstaff Hill in Adelaide for a brief stint during 1987-88, Bob and Kaye also spent twelve months in 2004 working in the USA. This provided him the opportunity to visit Clubs in Illinois, including a few speaking engagements at a Rotaract club within Bradley University, Peoria where they lived.

Upon returning to Tasmania, Bob continued with the RC Somerset until relocating to Hobart where he became a member of the Sandy Bay club in 2014. He has held most club Directorships including President at both Somerset (1997-98) and Sandy Bay (2018-19).

Bob received a PHF through the Somerset club in 2014 for services to Rotary and the community and again in 2023, by the Sandy Bay club for his services as District Governor. Kaye also received a PHF for her District Partner Project in 2023.

Bob served as DGN, then DGE and ultimately DG Rep on the RDU. and RDU Pty Ltd Boards from 1999 through to 2023. From a mechanical engineering qualification through professional management disciplines, Bob’s

career has been predominantly in sales and marketing management. He has held senior positions with major global mining equipment manufacturing companies. He is now semiretired, plays golf, loves boating and fishing and most importantly, enjoys time with their two son’s families and five granddaughters.

DIRECTOR

PDG JOHN CAMPBELL

John has always proudly been involved in service organisations throughout his life. As a student at Adelaide Boys High School he joined the Interact Club, and was an early member of the Rotaract Club of Edwardstown,SA– the first Rotaract Club in District 250 which started in 1971. John was a member for 8 years holding most positions including President and was the District Membership Chair and District Conference Chair. Whilst living in South Australia, John maintained his community service as a member of Apex.

John joined the Rotary Club of Adelaide Light, SA and he was then nominated for the position of District 9500 Governor for the 2014-15 year.

DIRECTOR

PDG PAUL MEE

Paul emigrated to Australia from the UK in 1966 aged 12 with his parents and two brothers. Paul married Adele in 1974 and lived in Tasmania until 1997 then moved the family to Victoria. They spent 19 years in the Doncaster/Donvale area of Melbourne and in 2016 moved to Rosebud on the Mornington Peninsula. Current interests include “All Things Rotary”, family, & travelling.

Paul joined Rotary in 1987 when a group of professional men & women in St Helens Tasmania, formed a new Rotary Club which was chartered in April 1987.

Paul was honoured and privileged to be selected as Charter President of the new club. Paul’s banking career took him and his family to one or two other cities where he joined the local Rotary club.

Our Board

2023-24

DIRECTOR

PDG ADRIAN ROACH

Adrian has served as Team Leader, Club Development in District 9660 supporting the Chair and committees of Membership, Public Image, Learning and Development, Rotary Leadership Institute and Club Visioning.

From 2019-2022, he was the RC (Rotary Coordinator) for Region 8, ‘Supporting and Strengthening Rotary Clubs in Australia, NZ and PI’. Adrian was also the Rotary Australia World Community Service Eastern Region Chair 2017-2019. He is actively involved with several projects in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea including the Paul Tunn Memorial Dental project which had a $200K Foundation Grant.

Adrian’s commitment to Service Above Self is also evident in his past involvement with the Rural Fire Service and having been a Justice of the Peace since he was 18. Adrian became a kidney donor to his sister in February 2000.

Adrian has been the recipient of multiple Paul Harris Fellowships, and he is a member of the Bequest Society & Paul Harris Society.

DIRECTOR

PDG PATRICE ROBINSON

Patrice was born and raised in Western Queensland. She has a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing) degree and was a registered Midwife, holding a Certificate in Child and Family Health. She is also trained as a lead auditor and holds a Diploma of Frontline Management.

She spent over 13 years in St George Southwest QLD first as a Nurse Unit Manager and then as Director of Nursing/Facility Manager.

Throughout this time, Patrice held positions on the health district’s committees of Clinical Governance, Corporate Governance and

Perioperative Advisory groups. She also acted many times in the positions of Executive District Director of Nursing and District Chief Operations Officer.

Patrice was asked to join Rotary soon after she moved to St George in 2005 and has held the position of Secretary, has been President for 2 terms and held various board roles in that time.

Patrice retired from her position at St George Hospital in December 2018 and is now living in Woombye on the Sunshine Coast and is a member of the eClub Australia Nomads, QLD. She was the last District Governor of District 9630 for 2020-2021, before it amalgamated to form District 9620.

DIRECTOR PDG RON DEGENHART (FROM 2025)

Ron emigrated to Brisbane from Chicago at age 11, graduating from Griffith University in 1979 and completing a Post Graduate Diploma in Science in 1999.

Ron has had a long career in local government park and landscape management, working in the Queensland Forestry Department and serving local governments in Brisbane, Gympie, Toowoomba and Townsville before retiring.

His involvement with Rotary began in 1992 when he joined the Rotary Club of Mundingburra, QLD, serving as president twice and holding various board positions. He also served as Assistant Governor for District 9550 from 2013-16, District and in 2019-20, and as District Membership Chair in 2020-21.

Throughout his Rotary tenure, Ron has pioneered several tours to Timor-Leste for Rotarians and others to experience the country’s culture and see how Rotary has contributed to the community’s development.

DIRECTOR

PDG JEFF NEALE (FROM 2025)

Jeff Neale was born into a family of Rotarians and grew up attending “family meetings” at the Rotary Club Campbelltown, SA, with his parents. He formally joined the club in 1990, serving as its president in 2007-08 and as District Governor for District 9510 during 2021-22.

With qualifications in mechanics and business, Jeff has built a career in the automotive industry.

He is currently the Dealer Principal of a Mazda dealership in South Australia, a business founded by his father in 1956. Jeff is also the President of the Mazda Dealer Association of South Australia and serves as a representative on the National Mazda Dealer Council.

In addition to his professional achievements, Jeff has volunteered with St John Ambulance, where he held the position of Divisional Superintendent, where he met his wife, Jenny.

In his spare time, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, as well as pursuing his hobby of model trains.

DIRECTOR

DG PATRICIA SCHRAVEN

Pat joined Rotary in 2007 whilst living in New Zealand. She is a Past President and a Paul Harris Fellow. Pat has held the positions of Club President, District Chair for Rotary Four Way Test Speech Contest and served as District Governor of 9465 in 2021-22.

Pat has been selected to serve again as District Governor in 2024-2025 of combined District 9423.

Pat also serves as a Board Member for Midway Community Services and has previously served on the advisory Board for Passage–Peel (resource centre for homeless youth).

Patricia holds a Certificate in Business Management, Diploma in Human Resources and has undertaken studies in Business Law, and with further postgraduate studies in Human Resources and Industrial relations.

DIRECTOR

DGE RENGA RAJAN (FROM 2025)

Renga Rajan is a Mechanical Engineer with experience working with Australian Defence Industries.

From 2013 to 2014, Rajan served as the President of the Rotary Club of Granville, NSW. He was appointed Assistant District Governor for Rotary District 9675 from 2018-20, before transitioning to District Governor from 2021-23.

Through his involvement with Rotary International he has been recognised multiple times with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship and received the Rotary International Avenue of Service Recognition from District 2981 in 2021 and from District 3232 in 2022, acknowledging his service.

Additionally, Ranga has been heavily involved in his local community, appointed to the Cumberland Council Major Event Committee from 2018-20 and awarded the Cumberland Council Local Citizen Award in 2020. He is also greatly implicated within the Australian/Indian community.

DIRECTOR

DGN PAUL MIEGEL (FROM 2025)

Since 1986, Paul Miegel and his wife Meredith have operated family-owned pharmacies, transitioning into the business of fine whisky, becoming the Director of Corowa Distilling Co. in 2017.

Paul has been a Rotary member for over 25 years, with active involvement in Rotary Club of Corowa, NSW. In 2010-11, he was named Honorary Rotarian of the Year and over the years served in several leadership roles, including director, treasurer, assistant governor, and Membership Committee Chair for District 9790.

Additionally, Paul has contributed to his local community as the inaugural president of the Corowa Chamber of Commerce and was elected to the Corowa Shire Council in 2012. He served as Deputy Mayor in 2014, before becoming Mayor in 2015. In 2016, he cochaired the Local Representative Committee of Federation Council and served as a councillor until 2021.

Research Highlights

High-resolution assessment of cancer cell metabolism for novel prostate cancer treatment strategies - Nancy Santiappillai

Funding Partner PhD – Prostate Cancer - University of Sydney, NSW Supported by Rotary Club of Blacktown City, NSW and Melvin Gray OAM PhD Scholarship

Results from a study funded by Australian Rotary Health was aimed to identify novel treatment strategies for prostate cancer patients, which remains a leading cause of death for men in Australia.

Nancy Santiappillai from the University of Sydney, NSW, received the Rotary Club of Blacktown City, NSW and Melvin Gray OAM PhD Scholarship in partnership with ARH to conduct research into prostate cancer.

The results indicated that cancer cells can be grouped by the way they use nutrients, and that these features are frequently observed among different cancer types. These results revealed that cancers such as prostate cancer can be targeted based on these features and could lead to new therapeutic opportunities. “Different cancers can be grouped together by their metabolism to more effectively be treated by drug therapies”.

This project was the first to observe that prostate cancer cells may not be relying on

“Different cancers can be grouped together by their metabolism to more effectively be treated by drug therapies”.

fatty acids to produce energy, as previously thought. Instead, the results demonstrated that prostate and other cancer types utilise fatty acids from outside the cellular environment for other purposes.

Nancy was able to provide evidence that metabolic signatures observed in prostate cancer are also targeted across cancer lineages. The results of this project are a crucial step in identifying novel metabolic-based therapies that address the overarching goal of improving patient outcomes for men with prostate cancer.

of prostate specific antigen testing - Ankur Kohar Research Highlights

Geographical

and temporal distribution

Funding Partner PhD – Prostate Cancer - University of Sydney, NSW

Supported by Rotary Club of Blacktown City, NSW, District 9790 and District 9830

Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer death in Australian men. The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most frequently used test to indicate possible prostate cancer in ‘average-risk’ men without symptoms. However, there remain many unanswered questions and uncertainties about the population wide use of this test in helping reduce the burden of prostate cancer in Australia. One of the large gaps in knowledge is the limited information regarding the prevalence of PSA testing in small areas across the country.

To address this gap, Australian Rotary Health/Rotary Club of Blacktown City, NSW, Rotary Districts 9790 and 9830 PhD Scholarship recipient, Ankur Kohar, aimed to better understand how, where a man resides is related to his use of the PSA test. The PhD used comprehensive Medicare data provided by the Department of Health and Aged Care, Australia, to analyse PSA testing patterns among men aged 50 to 79 from 2002 to 2018.

The findings revealed a peak in PSA testing in Australia during 2008, followed by a gradual decline until 2018. Generally, the PSA testing trends remained consistent across all states and territories. Whereas men living in remote regions of Australia had considerably lower testing rates compared to their urban counterparts. While examining small geographical areas, the study identified

significant variation in PSA testing rates across Australia, as well as within broader regions including socioeconomic groups, remoteness categories, and states and territories.

The small area geographical pattern varied substantially over time with densely populated areas, such as major cities, witnessed the most significant changes compared to many remote regions. While lower testing rates in large urban centres were associated with reduced incidence rates, there were mixed results and no clear patterns in smaller, remote regions. The study also notably found a weak correlation between PSA testing and prostate cancer incidence rates across small areas in Australia. This unexpected result requires further study.

Australian guidelines relating to prostate cancer testing using the PSA test are currently being reviewed. This research project offers valuable information to inform the development and implementation of evidence-based strategies aimed at addressing disparities in prostate cancer outcomes across Australia.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Ankur’s thesis titled ‘Geographical and Temporal Distribution of Prostate Specific Antigen Testing Across Australia’ and was undertaken at the Daffodil Centre, a joint venture between Cancer Council NSW and the University of Sydney, NSW.

Research Highlights

Substance use disorder, disordered eating and post-traumatic stress disorder in young people: Unravelling this common comorbidity - Ivana Kihas

Funding Partner PhD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Australia – University of Sydney, NSW

Supported by Rotary District 9685 PhD Scholarship

Australian Rotary Health/Rotary District 9685

Funding Partner PhD Scholarship recipient, Ivana Kihas, uses four stages of study to significantly advance the understanding of the prevalence and patterns of comorbidity between Substance Use Disorder (SUD), Eating Disorders (ED), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and lay the foundations for targeted and effective prevention and intervention strategies that will lessen the significant burden, harms, and costs associated with these disorders.

Study 1: A systematic review of 58 studies examining the prevalence and patterns of co-occurring substance use and disordered eating/EDs among young people. The review identified high prevalence rates of cooccurrence across all non-clinical groups (community populations, high-school students, and university students). Four patterns were evident: i) in samples reporting disordered eating, substance use was more prevalent and frequent; ii) greater disordered eating severity was related to higher substance use frequency; iii) binge eating and purging were highly related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use; and iv) binge behaviours (i.e., binge eating and binge drinking) were highly related among all

samples. Several methodological flaws and gaps were identified: i) an absence of research examining the role of trauma; ii) substance use mainly explored in samples with disordered eating and not vice versa; iii) no standardised way of measuring disordered eating among young people.

Study 2: Showed substance use, SUDs, trauma, and PTSD are prevalent among a large community cohort of young people. Overall, the results showed that substance use is associated with having experienced any traumatic event, particularly sexual and physical types of traumatic events, and developing PTSD. While the use of all substances was found to be associated with some, or all, of the trauma variables, cannabis use was most associated with these variables. Having experienced sexual trauma was the only trauma type significantly associated with all substance use variables, including binge drinking. SUDs were highly prevalent among this group of young people, with over one-third (36%) of the sample having met criteria for a probable diagnosis for an SUD. This estimate is over three times higher than the 9% observed among Australians aged 16-24 years in the general population.

These important implications highlight that SUD and PTSD are common among a community sample of young people.

Lastly, studies 3-4 examine cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between substance use, SUD symptom severity, PTSD symptom severity, post-traumatic cognitions, and disordered eating. In a clinical sample of young people with severe SUD and PTSD, approximately half of the sample reported disordered eating behaviours and one in five met criteria for a probable ED. Higher disordered eating scores were associated with experiencing a sexual trauma, as well as post-traumatic negative cognitions. A reduction in negative post-traumatic cognitions was associated with a reduction on the disordered eating scale, over a 4-month period.

While both substance use/SUDs and trauma experiences/PTSD are highly prevalent, among a non-clinical and highly functioning group of young people, demonstrating that targeted prevention and intervention may need to occur before emerging adulthood age. The occurrence of disordered eating and probable ED is also clear in a clinical sample of people with SUD and PTSD and warrants more attention to help treat this complex co-occurrence of disorders.

Research Highlights

Improving mental health

of young Australians with chronic illness:

A

pilot randomised controlled trial of online self-compassion training - Dr Amy Finlay-Jones

Mental Health of Young Australians Research Grant – Curtin University, WA

Supported by Stan Perron Charitable Foundation

Young people with a chronic condition experience higher rates of mental illness and lower well-being than their peers. Dr Amy Finlay-Jones developed an online program called Uplift to increase self-compassion in young people living with chronic medical conditions.

The group of young people that took part in the study reported over 50 unique chronic conditions. The most common chronic conditions included chronic pain, type 1 diabetes, allergies, asthma, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Over 70% had moderate to severe levels of psychological distress (symptoms of depression and/or anxiety). Nearly half of the study participants reported a diagnosed mental health condition.

In a randomised control trial, Dr FinlayJones compared mental health outcomes for two groups: one who completed the online program, and the group who were on a waitlist to receive the program. Results showed the group who completed the program had improvements in well-being, self-compassion, and distress that were

“The most common chronic conditions included chronic pain, type 1 diabetes, allergies, asthma, and chronic fatigue syndrome.”

maintained for at least 3 months since starting the program.

As the program was online it was also self-paced, meaning that young people could use it when and where it suited them. This is important for young people with chronic conditions, who often experience unpredictable symptoms that can limit their capacity to engage with face-to-face services. The inclusion of young people with a broad range of chronic conditions also reminded the participants that other people had gone through similar experiences to them so that they felt less isolated.

Research Highlights

The SuperLearner project: Fast-tracking our understanding of risk and protective factors for substance use and mental health - Associate Professor Tim Slade

Mental Health of Young Australians Research Grant – University of Sydney, NSW

With the increase in mental health illnesses among Australian adolescents aged 13-15 years, ARH Mental Health Grant recipient Associate Professor Tim Slade examines the risk and protective factors associated with mental health and substance use problems. Data from the study demonstrated that mental health problems have increased over time, particularly for females, while alcohol use has decreased over time, particularly for males.

The study involved 14,000 Australian high school students who provided questionnaire data related to mental health and substance use.

The dataset contained multiple time points of information from different groups of adolescents, indicating how mental health and substance use differs between adolescents of today versus adolescents 1520 years ago.

The aim of this project is to build a large dataset, eventually containing data from over 30,000 adolescents, to examine risk and protective factors associated with mental

“Data from the study demonstrated that mental health problems have increased over time, particularly for females, while alcohol use has decreased over time, particularly for males.”

health and substance use problems. This will be done by harmonizing smaller datasets from previous research that have been collected with common methodologies and measurement scales.

As a result, these techniques will be able to help identify students at high risk of these problems, informing the future design and development of targeted prevention interventions.

Postdoctoral Fellowship

Preventing the exacerbation of anxiety and alcohol use comorbidity through cognitive re-training - Dr Katrina Prior

Royce

Abbey Postdoctoral Fellowship in Mental Health - University of Sydney, NSW

Up to 60% of young people who receive treatment for alcohol use disorders relapse to heavy drinking. This is particularly true for people who drink to cope with anxiety. Research has shown that Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) brain training interventions are effective treatments for anxiety and alcohol use individually, particularly when combined with traditional face-to-face treatments. However, there is no research on the effectiveness of CBM among individuals who experience both disorders.

Australian Rotary Health funded the development, and first trial of a new internet delivered CBM program for young people, called ‘Re-Train Your Brain’. In total, 100 young Australians aged 18 to 30 participated in the trial. All were experiencing anxiety symptoms and drinking alcohol above recommended safe levels.

To test whether the Re-Train Your Brain program effectively reduced anxiety symptoms, harmful drinking, and cognitive biases (i.e., unhealthy mental habits), half of participants were randomly allocated to receive the Re-Train Your Brain intervention which involved 10 brain training sessions

plus treatment as usual, and the other half received treatment as usual only. All participants completed online surveys about their anxiety, alcohol use and cognitive biases before the program, as well as 6 and 12 weeks after commencing the study.

Results from the study showed that the ReTrain Your Brain program (which was delivered to participants in two different formats) was feasible and acceptable to young adults.

Completing the Re-Train Your Brain program alongside treatment as usual had clear benefits for young people involved in the trial. Over the 12-week follow-up period, young people who received the Re-Train Your Brain program experienced fewer social anxiety symptoms, alcohol cravings, anxiety interpretation biases and comorbid interpretation biases, compared to participants in the control group.

Findings suggest that the Re-Train Your Brain program has potential to be a scalable, low cost, and non-labour-intensive program to help improve mental ill health among young people; however, a larger randomised controlled trial is required to replicate the results.

Postdoctoral Fellowship

ARH

Postdoctoral Grant recipient’s research makes a medical breakthrough in Schizophrenia treatment – Associate Professor Elizabeth Scarr

Royce Abbey Postdoctoral Fellowship in Mental Health – University of Melbourne, VIC

Schizophrenia is a serious psychiatric disorder that can produce intense psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations, thought disruption, and heightened mistrust of others. It frequently entails cognitive difficulties as well as challenges with social interaction and motivation. Globally, schizophrenia ranks among the top 15 causes of disability, significantly reducing life expectancy, with nearly 5% of those affected dying by suicide.

In September 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Cobenfy capsules, an innovative antipsychotic treatment for adults with schizophrenia.

Unlike traditional medications that focus on dopamine receptors, Cobenfy is the first to target cholinergic receptors, potentially paving the way for a new approach in schizophrenia care.

Seventeen years earlier, in 2008, Dr. Elizabeth Scarr, now an Associate Professor, was awarded the Royce Abbey Postdoctoral Fellowship from ARH, enabling her to investigate the role of the cholinergic system in treating schizophrenia symptoms. Her research led to the discovery of reduced muscarinic receptors—proteins essential

“My research provided critical support for the drug company to develop and test the original version of the drug, which was then refined to the approved version.”

for regulating acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter - in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia.

This finding offered crucial insights into the disorder’s biological basis.

Reflecting on her work, Associate Professor Scarr shared, “My research provided critical support for the drug company to develop and test the original version of the drug, which was then refined to the approved version.”

She also acknowledged the significant role ARH’s support played in achieving this groundbreaking advancement.

�� Funding 2023-24

MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH

The majority of donations to Australian Rotary Health go towards funding preventions, treatments and cures for mental illnesses through our mental health research grants.

This year ARH contributed funding towards:

• 1 Research Project Grants – Mental Health of Young Australians –Continuing grants

• 3 Post-Doctoral Research Fellowships – Mental Health – Continuing Fellowships

• 12 Research Project Grants - Improving the Mental Health of 0-12 year olds

• 1 Mental Health PhD

GENERAL HEALTH RESEARCH

Partnering with Rotary Clubs and Districts, individual sponsors, governments, businesses and community organisations, allows Australian Rotary Health to fund research in more general health areas such as cancer, diabetes, autism and children’s health.

In 2023 - 2024, ARH co-funded:

• 30 PhD Research Scholarships –General Health Research including Mental Health.

PROGRAMS

Australian Rotary Health also passionately contributes to three programs which focus on opening opportunities for trainee scholars.

This year funds went towards:

• 76 Indigenous Health Scholarships

• 15 Rural Nursing Health Scholarships

• 11 Rural Medical Scholarships

Mental Health Research Grants

Mental Health Research Grants are important for Australian researchers to continue their important work. Australian Rotary Health provides these highly competitive grants every year in areas focusing on the mental health of young Australians between 0-25.

When we advertise research grants we receive up to 400 expressions of interest, which are narrowed down to about 30-40. These researchers are then asked to submit a full application. Usually, with the funding we have available we can only award about 1015 Mental Health Research Grants and these projects can continue for up to three years.

2023-24 Grant Recipients

Mental Health of Young Australians

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR CARLY JOHNCO

Youth Anxiety

‘Translating experimental neuroscience into clinical treatment: Preventing the return of fear in youth with anxiety disorders using memory reconsolidation mechanisms’

– Macquarie University, NSW

$34,466.00

Mental Health of 0-12 year olds

PROFESSOR ALISON CALEAR

Mental Health Education

‘Cluster randomised controlled trial of a mental health education program in ACT primary schools’’

– Australian National University, ACT

$68,487.00

DR AMY FINLAY-JONES

Mental Health Education

Supporting Toddlers, Engaging Parents (STEPs) to address early regulatory difficulties: A Multiphase Optimisation Strategy Approach’

– University of Western Australia, WA

Supported by The Stan Perron Charitable Foundation

$69,974.00

PROFESSOR CAROLINE DONOVAN

Mental Health and Sleep

‘Setting kids up for life: A digital program for improving the sleep and mental health of children aged 3-12 years’

- Griffith University, QLD

Supported by The Rotary Club of Kiama, NSW

$69,824.00

DR DAVID PASALICH

Mental Health in Foster Care

‘Improving child mental health in foster care: A pilot randomised trial of an attachmentand-trauma-informed intervention’

– Australian National University, ACT

$52,775.00

DR GOVIND KRISHNAMOORTHY

Mental Health in Schools

‘Trauma-Informed Behaviour Supports for the Early Intervention of Child Mental Health: A Pragmatic Implementation Trial with Regional Schools’

– University of Southern Queensland, QLD

$70,000.00

PROFESSOR JENNIFER HUDSON

Mental Health and Anxiety

‘Optimising exposure treatment for children with anxiety’

- University of New South Wales, NSW

$69,918.00

PROFESSOR LARA FARRELL

Mental Health Online

‘FAST (Families Accessing online Skills Training) CBT for Paediatric OCD: A nationwide randomised controlled trial’

– Griffith University, QLD

$69,090.00

DR LUCY TULLY

Mental Health and Improved Care

‘A model of improved care for child mental health problems using Measurement-Based Care’

– University of Sydney, NSW

$69,966.00

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR MARIE YAP

Mental Health and Autism

‘Feasibility & acceptability pilot trial of a coach-supported, online parenting intervention for parents of children with autism to reduce internalising problems’

– Monash University, VIC

Supported by The Late Stuart McDonald and The Rotary Club of Healesville, VIC

$34,991.00

PROFESSOR SONJA MARCH

Mental Health and Autism

‘A Staged Mental Health Care Plan for Children integrating child & parent assessment in Education settings: A feasibility randomised control trial’

– University of Southern Queensland, QLD

$69,694.00

DR SOPHIE LI

Mental Health, Sleep and Depression

‘Improving childhood sleep: The bedrock of depression prevention’

– University of New South Wales, NSW

$68,018.00

DR TALIA CARL

Mental Health for Carers

‘Increasing access to evidence-based mental health interventions for child mental health for carers of Aboriginal children: The Growing Minds Check In (GMCI-A)’

– University of Sydney, NSW

$69,774.00

Postdoctoral Fellowships

2023-24 Fellowship Recipients

Australian Rotary Health offers Postdoctoral Fellowships every year to assist early career researchers with their research projects. They are named after the first four Chair’s of ARH: Royce Abbey, Geoffrey Betts, Colin Dodds, and Bruce Edwards.

DR BREANNE HOBDEN

The Colin Dodds Postdoctoral Fellowship Indigenous Mental Health Prevention ‘Examining the comorbidity of mental health problems and alcohol and other drug use within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People: A neglected area’

- University of Newcastle, NSW

DR GEMMA SICOURI

The Geoffrey Betts Postdoctoral Fellowship Early Intervention in Childhood Mental Health ‘Empowering parents to optimise child anxiety treatment’

- University of New South Wales, NSW

DR MELISSA AJI

The Colin Dodds Postdoctoral Fellowship Prevention and intervention of childhood fear and anxiety at night

‘A digital intervention for night-time fears & sleep disturbances for children.’

- University of New South Wales, NSW

DR SHURONG LU

The Royce Abbey Postdoctoral Fellowship Mental Health First Aid by Parents

‘Empowering culturally and linguistically diverse parents to support primary schoolaged children: an evaluation of Mental Health First Aid for Supporting Children’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

Ian Scott PhD Scholarships

2023-24 Scholarship

Recipient

Since 2000, Australian Rotary Health has awarded the Ian Scott PhD Scholarship, created and named in honour of founder of Australian Rotary Health, the late Ian Scott (1933-2001).

Each scholarship is valued up to $35,000 per year, for a period of up to 3.5 years.

JAMES MARTIN

Self-Disorder Research

‘Exploring neurophenomenological signatures of Self-Disorder in young people with first episode psychosis.’

- University of Adelaide, SA

Funding Partner PhD Scholarships

2023-24 Scholarship Recipients

Australian Rotary Health Funding Partner

PhD Scholarships have been awarded since 2002, to research a wide variety of general health areas.

Each Funding Partner PhD Scholarship is funded by three parties: A Rotary Club or District, a University and Australian Rotary Health.

Scholars have received up to $35,000 annually to investigate areas such as cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders and children’s health.

CATHERINE JOHNSON

Rotary Club of Flemington Kensington, VIC

Mental health of children aged 5-12 years

‘Training teachers to provide early intervention to primary school aged children experiencing mental health problems’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

CHARLOTTE BLACKLOCK

Co-funded by combined Rotary Clubs of Mackay, QLD

Depression and/or Suicide in Young People

‘Exploring the mental health and gender affirming needs of young people with a non-binary gender identity’

- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, VIC

DENNIS CHAN

Funded by Australian Rotary Health

Neuroendocrine Tumours

‘The evaluation of functional imaging in the management of neuroendocrine tumours’

- University of Sydney, NSW

EVELYN SLOAN

Co-funded by Sharon Green & Marcel Skjald

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

‘Paving the path to recovery: Improving mental health and physical outcomes for intensive care survivors’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

FRANK MOBILIO

Co-funded by Rotary District 9790 RSL, VIC PTSD in Service Personnel and their Families

‘Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury: role of neuroinflammation’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

MICHELLE GOSSNER

Co-funded by Rotary District 9640, QLD Rural Mental Health

‘Targeting Youth Educational Disengagement in Regional Queensland’

- Central Queensland University, QLD

REBECCA ONG

Co-funded by Gail and Bryan General Health (Brain Health)

‘Promoting health brain ageing with noninvasive brain stimulation’

- University of Western Australia, WA

WINSTON HUA

Co-funded by Rotary Club of Youngtown, TAS, Gastroparesis

‘Prebiotic effects of partially hydrolysed guar gum in individuals and gastroparesis’

- Western Sydney University, NSW

RYAN COHEN

Co-funded by Rotary Clubs of District 9465, WA, Bowel Cancer

‘Predicting colorectal cancer metastatic risk: the tumour immune microenvironment, circulating tumour-derived exosomes, their integrins and tumour DNA as biomarkers of disease progression’

- University of Western Australia, WA

LAURA GRATTIDGE (NEE SMITH)

Rotary Club of Deloraine, TAS

Youth Suicide Prevention

‘Tackling the Real Tassie Devil: Towards Best Practice for Youth Suicide Prevention in Regional and Rural Tasmania’

- University of Tasmania, TAS

MIKHAIL DIAS

Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Williamstown/Ronnie Goldberg, VIC

Prostate Cancer

‘Identifying and characterising gene co-expression modules underlying resistance to Androgen Deprivation Therapy in prostate cancer’

- The University of Melbourne, VIC

TARA LAL

Co-funded by the Rotary Clubs of NSW, NSW (RESCA Awards)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

‘To assess the effect of exposure to suicide on firefighters’

- University of New England, NSW

AISLING MCEVOY

Bartolina Peluso PhD and co-supported by RC of Camden, NSW

Dementia

Don’t lose sleep over your medications: Investigating the safe and effective reduction of harmful sedative medications in people living with dementia’

- Monash University, VIC

AJAY KONURI

Rotary Club of Belconnen ‘50th Anniversary PhD Scholarship’ Parkinson’s Disease

‘Using neuroimaging to identify biomarkers of progression to dementia and novel therapeutic mechanisms in patients with prodromal Lewy body disease’

- University of Sydney, NSW

CHARLIE FFRENCH

Phillip & Glenis Hayes PhD Scholarship

Pancreatic Cancer

‘Advancing a novel biomarker for pancreatic cancer’

- University of South Australia, SA

CHOW LAI

Rotary Club of Murrumbidgee, Canberra, ACT

Childhood Cancer

‘Towards using CRISPR-Type III for fusion oncogene detection and ablation of cancer cells in paediatric patients with acute myeloid leukaemia’

- Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, VIC

DAGMAWI HAILE

Rotary Passport Club of Sylvania Waters, NSW

Multiple Sclerosis

‘Evaluating causal effects of therapies in multiple sclerosis’

University of Melbourne, VIC

EMILY MAJOR

Pamela Maud Ratcliff PKD Scholarship

PKD Research

‘Discovering the influence of the NLRP3 inflammasome on Polycystic Kidney Disease progression’

- La Trobe University, VIC

GEORGINA RAWSON

Bartolina Peluso PhD Scholarship

Dementia

‘Slow wave sleep and biomarkers of neurodegeneration in obstructive sleep apnoea’

- Monash University, VIC

HARRY DEMPSEY

Rob Henry Memorial PhD Scholarship

Mental Health

‘Creating a turnkey solution to detect behaviour’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

JINGJING LIN

Rotary Clubs of District 9800 and Members, VIC

Parkinson’s Disease Research PhD

Parkinson’s Disease

‘Retinal Biomarkers in Parkinson’s disease’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

JORDAN CLARKE

Jonathan Ceddia Memorial PhD Scholarship

Schizophrenia

‘Modelling Anatomical Phenotypes of Schizophrenia in Patient-Specific Cerebral Organoids’

- University of Melbourne, VIC

JORDAN VELLA

Rotary Club of Mont Albert and Surrey Hills, VIC

‘Danny Frawley’ Centre PhD Scholarship

Athlete Mental Health

‘Exploring the Risk-Protective Factors for the Mental Health of Retired Elite Athletes’

- Monash University, VIC

MEGAN SMITH

Lorraine & Bruce McKenzie PhD Scholarship

Mental Health

‘Mapping the care pathways initiated by primary schools to support the mental health of their students’

- The University of Melbourne, VIC

NINA PERRY

David Henning Memorial PhD Scholarship

Autism

‘Transforming the assessment of adaptive functioning in children with neurodevelopmental conditions’

- The University of Sydney, NSW

PHILLIPA HUYNH

Rotary Club of Victor Harbor, SA

Rural Men’s Mental Health

‘Risk and Protective Factors for Complex Trauma in Australian Rural and Urban Men’

- Swinburne University of Technology, VIC

STELLA EGBOH

Rotary Club of Devonport, TAS

Gastroparesis

‘Pathophysiology and treatment of idiopathic gastroparesis: duodenal and gastric pathology, intestinal immune activation and microbiome’

- University of Newcastle, NSW

Rural Medical Scholarships

2023-24 Scholarship Recipients

As rural areas are often in desperate need for more medical services, Australian Rotary Health offers Rural Medical Scholarships as an incentive for students to consider practicing medicine in rural Australian communities.

$5,000 is granted to successful candidates to assist as they undertake their work placements at a rural and remote health care service. The aim is that the student will eventually move to a rural area to work once receiving their qualification.

KATHERINE DUMAS

- University of Adelaide, SA

Whyalla Rural Clinical School, SA Scholarship Awarded 2023

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of St Peters, SA

MATTHEW SHEPPARD

- Australian National University, ACT Cooma Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2023

Sponsored by: The Late PDG Joe Scorer

REUBEN CAUDELL

- Australian National University, ACT Young Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2023

Sponsored by: The Late PDG Joe Scorer

TRISTAN SPRUMONT

- University of Adelaide, SA Yorkes-Kadina/Wallaroo Rural Clinical School, SA Scholarship Awarded 2024

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of St Peters (SA)

BRIDGET GAUL

- Australian National University, ACT Bega Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Sponsored by: The Late PDG Joe Scorer

TARA COLLAERY

- Australian National University, ACT Cowra Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Sponsored by: The Late PDG Joe Scorer

LABIBA RAHMAN

- Australian National University, ACT Bega Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Sponsored by: The Late PDG Joe Scorer

CHRISTINE ZHU

- Australian National University, ACT Cooma Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Sponsored by: The Late PDG Joe Scorer

SAMANTHA SKUNDRIC

- University of Western Sydney, NSW Bathurst Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Sponsored by: District 9675 Inspirational Woman Awards, NSW

CHRISTO JOSEPH

- University of Western Sydney, NSW Bathurst Rural Clinical School, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Rural Nursing Scholarships

2023-24

Scholarship

Recipients

This scholarship provides opportunities for nursing students to complete a rural placement in their final year of study in a rural or remote area. It also encourages graduates to ultimately pursue a nursing career in rural Australia.

PHOENIX DARMUC

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC

Federation University, Gippsland Campus, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service

ABBIE ROSS

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC

Federation University, Gippsland Campus, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service

RACHAEL BRANDSMA

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC Federation University, Gippsland Campus, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – Bairnsdale Regional Health Service

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service

MADELEINE RODWELL

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC

Federation University, Gippsland Campus, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – Bairnsdale Regional Health Service

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service

SARAH BUCKLE

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – Shellharbour Acute Medical Unit

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

JESSICA RICHARDS

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

PHOEBE BOYD

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2023

Final Rural Placement – Milton Ulladulla

Hospital

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

CHELSEA HURLEY

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC

Federation University, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service (Sale)

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service (Sale)

GEORGINA BOYCE

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC

Federation University, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – Bairnsdale Regional Hospital/ Latrobe Regional Hospital

Post Grad Placement – Bairnsdale Regional Hospital

EBONY HENRY

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC

Federation University, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service (Sale)

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service (Sale)

NARELLE BROWN

Rotary Club of Sale, VIC Federation University, VIC Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service (Sale)

Post Grad Placement – Central Gippsland Health Service (Sale)

JANA HOFFMAN

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW

Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – Wollongong Hospital

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

STEPHANIE MERTON

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – Bowral Public Hospital

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

CARLY BREMNER

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

CASSANDRA FRENCH

PDG Joe Scorer Scholarships

University of Wollongong, NSW Scholarship Awarded 2024

Final Rural Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

Post Grad Placement – South-East Regional Hospital (Bega)

Indigenous Health Scholarships

2023-24 Scholarship Recipients

Indigenous Health Scholarships have been encouraging Indigenous students to undertake a health-related degree since 2002.

$5,000 is awarded to each student per year to study in areas that include nursing, medicine, social work, and dentistry.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

REESE SALMON

Deakin University, VIC – Psychology

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Murrumbidgee Canberra, ACT

JOEL MATYSEK

University of Canberra, ACT – Psychology

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Tuggeranong, ACT

NEW SOUTH WALES

ALFRED SING

University of New South Wales, NSW – Medicine

NORTHERN TERRITORY

EMILY POST

Flinders University, SA - Medicine

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Darwin South, NT

EMMA MCKENZIE

Flinders University, SA - Medicine

Sponsored by: Rotary Clubs of Darwin North, NT

JAI DEFRANCISCIS

Flinders University, SA - Medicine

QUEENSLAND

ALEXANDER GOTZE

James Cook University, QLD – Medicine

Sponsored by: Lyndal Brown (The Harris Estate)

BRADLEY SMITH

University of Queensland, QLD – Medicine

Sponsored by: Dr King Gan

CHARLIE HAZELTON

Griffith University, QLD - Health Science

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Runaway Bay, QLD

JESSICA STORRAR

James Cook University, QLD – Medicine

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Cairns Trinity, QLD

LOGAN WALSH

Australian Catholic University, ACT –Physiotherapy

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Mackay, QLD

MIAH HICKMAN

University of Queensland, QLD - Medicine/ Nursing

Sponsored by: Lyndal Brown (The Harris Estate)

MOLLIE SCOFIELD

Queensland University of Technology, QLD –Nursing and Public Health

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Toowong, QLD

SHAKIRA PEDRO

Australian Catholic University, QLD – Midwifery

Sponsored by: Lyndal Brown (The Harris Estate)

SHI-ANNE WALLACE

James Cook University, QLD – Pharmacy

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Cairns, QLD

TASMANIA

JACKSON CORONA

University of Tasmania, TAS - Medicine

Sponsored by: Dr King Gan

VICTORIA

ADAM CORUNNA

Monash University, VIC – Medicine

Sponsored by: Rotary District 9790 Group, VIC

AINGELINA WRIGHT

LaTrobe University, VIC - Social Work

Sponsored by: Dr King Gan

TAHLIA O’HARA

Griffith University, QLD – Pharmacy

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Kyneton, VIC

TAZARNI CLARKE

Australian Catholic University, ACT - Nursing

Sponsored by: Rotary Clubs of Brighton and Southern Mitchell, VIC

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

CLAUDIA WALTON-MCDERMOTT

University of Western Australia, WA – Medicine

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Kalamunda, WA

ELLEN ENGELKE

Curtin University, WA – Medicine

Sponsored by: Dr King Gan

JAMILIAH BIN SWANI

University of Notre Dame, WA – Nursing

Sponsored by: Rotary Clubs of Baldivis, Kwinana, Rockingham and Palm Beach, WA

JASMINE JOHN

Curtin University, WA - Occupational Therapy

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Geelong East, VIC

KAHLIE LOCKYER

University of Western Australia, WA - Medicine

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ANESHA RAHMAN

University of Adelaide, SA - Medicine

Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Adelaide Light, SA

AVAH TOPP

University of Adelaide, SA - Medicine

Researcher Awards

Australian Rotary Health Mental Health Impact Award

Australian Rotary Health sponsors an annual Award for knowledge dissemination through the Society for Mental Health Research (SMHR). The Award is given to a person who has shown outstanding service in the promotion of evidence-based interventions, implementing them into practice or making the public more aware of their existence.

 AWARD RECIPIENT 2024

PROFESSOR NICOLA NEWTON

OURFUTURES INSTITUTE, MATILDA CENTRE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY, NSW

In 2024 the Australian Rotary Health IMPACT award was given to Professor Nicola Newton on behalf of the OurFutures Team from the Matilda Centre, University of Sydney, NSW. OurFutures Institute is a passionate team of internationally renowned academics, research collaborators, EdTech innovators and professional operations experts united by a common purpose: to empower young people with the knowledge and skills to thrive.

Australian Rotary Health “Medal”

The Board of Australian Rotary Health Awards an annual ‘Medal’ to an individual who has contributed outstanding service to Australian Rotary Health. Recipients are presented with a framed certificate and commemorative pin.

In 2024, the Medal was awarded to Betty Kitchener AM in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Australian Rotary Health across two Rotary Districts – 9800 and 9660. This award honours her pivotal role in the development and promotion of the Mental Health First Aid program, as well as her ongoing efforts to raise awareness of this vital initiative within Rotary. Additionally, it acknowledges her leadership and dedication to Rotary as Chair of District 9660.

BETTY KITCHENER AM IS THE RECIPIENT OF THE 2024 AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH MEDAL.

Australian Rotary Health Dick White Achievement Award

This Award is bestowed in honour of Past Australian Rotary Health Director, PDG Dick White OAM, who dedicated a long service to Australian Rotary Health, including his tireless efforts as Chair of the Rotary Health Safari and the Great Australian Bike Ride.

The 2024 award has been given to District 9620, QLD, for its remarkable efforts in organising their Lift the Lid Walk for Mental Illness. A special mention goes to the Rotary Club of Mooloolaba, QLD which initiated the first Lift the Lid Walk in 2017, setting the foundation for what has become a widely embraced movement.

This award also acknowledges the financial contributions of PDG Tim Keeler and his wife Gail during Tim’s Governor year in 2022-23. Gail named ARH as her partner’s project to raise funds throughout the District. Over $25,000 was raised and Gail was recognised with a Ruby Companion Award.

Additionally, this Award acknowledges District 9620’s involvement in targeting support for returned service personnel and individuals affected by PTSD, emphasising the District’s commitment to promoting mental well-being.

LEFT TO RIGHT: ROTARY CLUB OF MOOLOOLABA PRESIDENT, IAN BARNETT, DG SUE MULRANEY AND ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS.

Supporters

2023-24

ARH DIRECTOR PDG JOHN CAMPBELL AND ARH DIRECTOR PDG MICHAEL BUCKERIDGE RECEIVING THEIR RECOGNITION PLAQUES FOR THEIR TENURE ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 3 AND 5 YEARS OF SERVICE RESPECTIVELY. LEFT TO RIGHT: ARH DIRECTOR PDG JOHN CAMPBELL, ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS, ARH DIRECTOR PDG MICHAEL BUCKERIDGE AND CEO JOY GILLETT, OAM.

ARH DIRECTOR PDG PATRICE ROBINSON (LEFT) PRESENTING GAIL KEELER (CENTRE) WITH A RUBY COMPANION AWARD FOR FUNDRAISING FOR YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH FROM 2022-23.

LONG-TIME SUPPORTERS OF ARH, ANN & JOHN ODLUM FROM THE ROTARY CLUB OF JINDALEE, QLD, DISTRICT 9620 PRESENTED WITH AN EMERALD COMPANION AWARD. PICTURED L-R: DISTRICT 9620 ARH CHAIR PP ROGER CRAWFOOT, ARH DIRECTOR PDG PATRICE ROBINSON, ANN & JOHN ODLUM AND FORMER DISTRICT CHAIR RUSS HIGGINBOTHAM.

SARAH WALSH, WHO ORGANISED THE HEYSON TRAIL TREK, RAISING FUNDS FOR ARH WAS PRESENTED A GOLD COMPANION AWARD –PRESENTED BY ARH DIRECTOR PDG JOHN CAMPBELL IN 2023.

ARH DISTRICT 9810 CHAIR GLENN TIPPETT PRESENTING DIANE FISHER FROM ROTARY CLUB OF BOX HILL CENTRAL, VIC, WITH A RUBY COMPANION AWARD FOR HER LONG-TERM COMMITMENT AND SUPPORT OF ARH.

D9685 DISTRICT GOVERNOR CHRISTINE OWEN PRESENTED PAST ARH DIRECTOR, PDG GRAEME DAVIES, WITH A GOLD COMPANION AWARD FOR HIS LONG-TERM COMMITMENT AND SUPPORT OF ARH.

ROTARY CLUB OF CARINGBAH, NSW MEMBER EMIL WEBER RECEIVING HIS DIAMOND COMPANION AWARD FROM ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS.

GEOFFREY

ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS AND HIS WIFE, JUDITH HUMPHREYS PRESENTED WITH A GOLD COMPANION AWARD – PRESENTED BY FORMER CHAIR PDG KEVIN SHADBOLT OAM.

ARH DIRECTOR PDG ADRIAN ROACH PRESENTING A RUBY COMPANION AWARD TO ARH SUPPORTER, JANETTE JACKSON AND A DIAMOND FRIEND CERTIFICATE TO STEVE JACKSON AT ROTARY CLUB OF WARNERS BAY, NSW.

PRESIDENT OF ROTARY CLUB OF MAGILL SUNRISE, SA LINDSAY DAVIS PRESENTED A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER BETTY GEBERT FOR 20 YEARS OF DEDICATION AND COMMITMENT TO ARH.

PROFESSOR

KELLERMAN AO (LEFT) RECEIVING HIS DIAMOND COMPANION AWARD FROM ARH CEO JOY GILLETT OAM IN 2023.

DISTRICT

STEVE WARWICK PRESENTED WITH A GOLD COMPANION AWARD BY ARH DIRECTOR PDG JOHN CAMPBELL IN 2023.

ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS PRESENTED A COMPANION AWARD TO DISTRICT 9675 SECRETARY RAE-ANNE MEDFORTH FOR HER LONG-TERM SUPPORT TO AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH.

ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS PRESENTED A COMPANION AWARD TO DG IAN MCKAY IN 2024.LEFT TO RIGHT: ARH CHAIR PDG STEPHEN HUMPHREYS, DG IAN MCKAY AND WIFE SHERRIL MCKAY.

9660 GOVERNOR ELECT, BRUCE GEORGE PRESENTED A COMPANION AWARD TO FRANK O’NEILL FROM ROTARY CLUB OF MOREE-ON-GWYDIR, NSW.

ARH DIRECTOR PDG ADRIAN ROACH PRESENTED THE ROTARY CLUB OF DUBBO SOUTH, NSW PRESIDENT DAVID DUFFY WITH A GOLD COMPANION AWARD IN 2024.

PAST ARH CHAIR PDG KEVIN SHADBOLT OAM PRESENTING A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION TO IAN AND JENNY CHALK WHO BECAME PLATINUM FRIENDS FOR THEIR SUPPORT.

ARH DISTRICT 9800 CHAIR DR SURESH MARCANDAN (LEFT) PRESENTED ELIZABETH DUMONIC WITH A GOLD COMPANION AWARD FOR HER CONTINUAL SUPPORT TO AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH.

ARH AMBASSADOR & PAST ARH CHAIR PDG JEFFREY CROFTS (RIGHT) PRESENTED A COMPANION AWARD TO COL CRAIG (LEFT) DURING THE ROTARY CLUB OF CAIRNS WEST, QLD’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION.

PAST ARH DIRECTOR PDG BARBARA WHEATCROFT OF DISTRICT 9510, PRESENTED A GOLD COMPANION AWARD TO ROBERT BROOKES FROM ROTARY CLUB OF BAROSSA VALLEY, SA IN 2024.

DISTRICT 9800 CHAIR DR SURESH MARCANDAN (LEFT) AND ARH DISTRICT 9800 COMMITTEE MEMBER RUSSELL GILBERT (RIGHT) POSTHUMOUSLY PRESENTING A RUBY COMPANION AWARD TO JULIE KING, IN HONOR OF HER LATE FATHER JOHN KING OAM.

ARH DISTRICT 9810 CHAIR GLENN

PRESENTED A RUBY COMPANION

PAST

TIPPETT (RIGHT)

AWARD

STEPHEN FISHER FROM ROTARY CLUB OF BOX HILL CENTRAL, VIC.

ARH AMBASSADOR AND PAST ARH CHAIR PDG TERRY GRANT, ACCEPTING A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION ON BEHALF OF ARH FROM ROTARY CLUB OF WYNDHAM, VIC PRESIDENT IAN EMERY.

Events, Fundraising, & Other Happenings

Lift the Lid Walk for Mental Health

Since 2020, the Lift the Lid walks have raised over $450,000 for mental health research!

The very first walk event that inspired the Lift the Lid Walks was hosted by Vicki Stewart at the Rotary Club of Mooloolaba, QLD in 2017. Ever since then, Vicki’s idea has expanded to more Rotary Clubs across Australia.

The walk and talk format is deliberately not a race but gives an opportunity for locals

 TOWNSVILLE, QLD

A successful

Lift the Lid for Mental Health was hosted in October 2023 by Rotary Club of Townsville and Rotary Club of Townsville Saints, QLD.

to get together and raise awareness of the serious mental health issues we all face. With 1 in 5 Australians suffering a mental health disorder, we use these walk events to break down the stigma and make it easier to seek support for mental health concerns.

Thank you to all the Clubs who held walks during 2023 and 2024 - together we can Lift the Lid on Mental Illness

 BRIBIE ISLAND, QLD

Rotary Club of Bribie Island, QLD hosted their fourth Lift the Lid Walk in 2023, raising over $5,000 for ARH!

 GLADSTONE, QLD

The combined Rotary Clubs of the Gladstone Region, QLD, hosted their inaugural Lift the Lid Walk in October 2023! It was a beautiful day with a wonderful turnout and community spirit.

 CAIRNS, QLD

The Combined Rotary Clubs of Cairns, QLD, held a hugely successful walk in 2023, raising over $6,500 for ARH!

 ULVERSTON WEST, TAS

A fantastic Lift the Lid Walk held by Rotary Club of Ulverstone West, TAS in February 2024, showcasing support for mental health and unwavering community support.

 MOOLOOLABA, QLD

In 2024, Rotary Club of Mooloolaba, QLD held a hugely successful Lift the Lid walk for over 350 participants came together and raised over $34,000 for ARH!

Events, Fundraising & Other Happenings

Hat Day

Hat Day is a Lift the Lid on Mental Illness event to help raise awareness of mental health in the community and raise funds for research. The event continues to be celebrated by Rotary Clubs Australia-wide every year. Here were some highlights!

 Thank you to ARH District 9800 Chair Dr Suresh Marcandan and Rotary Club of Melbourne, VIC, for supporting ARH during Mental Health Month by wearing hats to a meeting in 2023.

 Member for Mornington, VIC, Chris Crewther (far right) was given the prestigious job of selecting the best hat at Rotary Club of Mount Martha’s Hat Day Fundraiser in 2023.

 Princes Street Primary School students in Sandy Bay, TAS, supporting ARH by hosting a Hat Day event in 2023.

 To top off their successful Lift the Lid Walk in 2023, Rotary Club of Campbelltown, SA hosted a Hat Day Dinner to coincide with International Mental Health Month.

Events, Fundraising & Other Happenings

 WENDOUREE BREAKFAST, VIC

Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast, VIC hosted a Trivia Night in 2023, raising $4,600 for ARH.

 ‘CASINO ROYALE’ CONFERENCE DINNER

TAMWORTH, NSW

Rotary District 9660 held a ‘Casino Royale’ Conference Dinner in Tamworth, NSW in 2023, where Rotarians and guests learnt how to play blackjack and roulette, raising $1,750 for ARH.

 HEALTHY MINDS MENTAL HEALTH FORUM

Rotary Club of Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills, VIC with the Rotaract Club of Casey Cardinia, VIC, hosted a Healthy Minds Mental Health Forum in August 2023, where over 100 attendees heard guest speakers discussing their mental health journeys.

Events, Fundraising & Other Happenings

 RIDE TO CONFERENCE 2024

The Rotary District 9790 Ride to Conference 2024 showcased a team of 20 riders, who covered 210 km over the course of three days, raising funds for Australian Rotary Health.

 MORNINGTON PENINSULA, VIC

Rotary Clubs on the Mornington Peninsula, VIC hosted an International Women’s Day breakfast attended by over 200 business and professional women, men and Rotarians.

 MURRAY BRIDGE, SA GOLF TOURNAMENT

Rotary Club of Murray Bridge, SA, Changeover, held a successful Golf Tournament in 2023 for our ‘Lift the Lid’ on campaign, whereby $4,500 was raised.

 ROTARY E-CLUB NOMADS

In 2023, Rotary e-Club Nomads held their Rotary Changeover event, where ARH Director PDG Patrice Robinson arranged for a walking stick from Rotary District 9685’s partner project to be auctioned, raising $645.

Events, Fundraising & Other Happenings

 12-HOUR STATIC BIKE RIDE, BLACKTOWN CITY

Rotary Club of Blacktown City, NSW, hosted a 12-hour static bike ride in September 2023, raising awareness and funds for research into mental health disorders!

 RIDE FOR RESEARCH AND MAD MARCH CHALLENGE 2024

Ride for Research and MAD March Challenge 2024 brought together 36 dedicated riders and support crew, raising close to $40,000 to support mental health research.

Events, Fundraising & Other Happenings

 LIFT THE LID

Rotary International President Gordon McInally wearing a Lift the Lid cap with ARH Director DG Pat Schraven at the International Assembly in USA in January 2024!

 CHAIR’S DINNER

ARH Chair PDG Stephen Humphreys hosted a Chair’s Dinner in May 2024, featuring speakers who discussed research into mental health and Indigenous scholars reflecting on their experiences with AHR and Rotary.



HEALTH AND WELL-BEING, TAS

Rotary Club of Ulverstone West, TAS, hosted a Health and Well-being dinner in 2023 where over 200 attendees including the Premier of Tasmania Jeremy Rockliff and Mayor Cheryl Fuller attended. Left to right: Greg Jennings (Beyond Blue), Lindsay Morgan OAM, Past ARH Chair PDG Kevin Shadbolt OAM and Premier Hon Jeremy Rockliff.

 OPEN GARDEN EVENT

Jenny and Ian Chalk showcased their beautiful coastal garden, raising over $3,000 for Australian Rotary Health in March 2024.

Events, Fundraising & Other Happenings

 ORLANDO, USA

Australian and New Zealand District Governors Elect with Immediate Past Rotary International President Jennifer Jones in Orlando, USA in 2024.

 MUDGEE, NSW

District Chair Betty Kitchener AM with the Australian Rotary Health stall at the 2024 District 9660 Conference in Mudgee, NSW.

 CHAIR’S DINNER

A luncheon organised by the Districts of Victoria in June 2024 with Rotary International President, Gordon McInally and wife, Heather at Cape Schanck, from which proceeds were bestowed onto Australian Rotary Health and Orygen Youth Mental Health.

Left to right: ARH Director Paul Mee, ARH Chair PDG Stephen Humphreys, Rotary International President Gordon McInally and ARH Director DG Ian McKay

Companions

Australian Rotary Health would like to thank our generous Companions for their donation contributions.

DIAMOND COMPANIONS

Alan Grady

Dan Crisp

Daniel Holzapfel

Emil Weber

Geoff Kellerman AO

Michael Wright

Rotary Club of Geraldton Greenough, WA

Rotary Club of Salisbury, SA

Rotary Club of South Bunbury, WA

The Beslich Family

The Henning Family

The Koo Family

The McDonald Family

EMERALD COMPANIONS

Ann & John Odlum

Beverley & Graham Webb

Carol Coffey

Cliff Hoare

Craig Alford

Donald Gordon

Dr King Gan

Garry Browne AM

Garry Fenner

Janette Jones

Mark & Karen Hancock

Michael & Juanita Wright

Peter M Lewis

Robyn Browne

Sally Fletcher

Sharon Green & Marcel Skjald

RUBY COMPANIONS

Phil Asker

Margaret & Peter Waite

Athalie Lucas

Brian Lanyon

George Dee

Jennifer Thomas AM

Brian Goldstraw

John Ellis

Margaret Dean

Dr David Squirrell

Heather, Brian & Graham Beesley

Ron G Geary

Ian Graham

John Keating

Elgin Brown

Ernst Hug

Bev & Bill Richardson

Peter Lewis

Brian Condon OAM

Jeff Crofts

Rob McDougall

Gwen Fisher

The Whykes Family

Les Rae

Paul Ying

Garnet Wood

Kevin Sharp

Ben Beresford

Gregory Ross OAM

John Henshall

Donald Gordon

Colin Roy Acton

Val Henry

Robert Gardiner

John King OAM

Kevin Shadbolt OAM & Anne Shadbolt

Diane Fisher

Gail Keeler

Nola Blair

Stephen Fisher

Janette Jackson

Patrons, Life Members and Ambassadors

Australian Rotary Health would like to thank our valued Patrons, Life Members and Ambassadors for their role in sustaining our organisation.

PATRONS

Ian Riseley AM

RI President 2017 to 2018

LIFE MEMBERS

PDG Ron Beslich OAM

PDG Jeff Crofts

PDG Terry Edwards AM

PP David Finn

PP Joy Gillett OAM

PP Don Gordon

PDG Alan Grady

PDG Terry Grant

PDG Denis Green

PDG Terry Lees OAM

PDG Fred Marsh

PDG Ian Oliver OAM

PDG Gregory Ross OAM

Professor Michael Sawyer OAM

PDG Kevin Shadbolt OAM

PRID Noel Trevaskis OAM

PDG Don Whatham

PDG Dick White OAM

ARH CHAIRMEN

The Late Royce Abbey AO

The Late Geoffrey Betts AM

The Late Colin Dodds

The Late Bruce Edwards AM

The Late Bruce McKenzie OAM

The Late Ted Atkinson

The Late John Ranieri

Terry Edwards AM

Denis Green

Ian Oliver OAM

Terry Lees OAM

Noel Trevaskis OAM

Terry Grant

Jeff Crofts

Gregory Ross OAM

Kevin Shadbolt OAM

Stephen Humphreys

MEDAL RECIPIENTS

Betty Kitchener AM - 2024

Vicki Stewart – 2022

Lyn Jones – 2021

Phil Lacey – 2019

Lindsay Morgan OAM – 2018

Melvin Gray OAM – 2017

The Late Keith Henning OAM – 2016

David & Karen Brown – 2015

Dean Brown AO – 2014

The Late Robert Aitken AM – 2014

The Late Geoff Bailey OAM – 2013

Joy Gillett OAM – 2013

The Late Rob Henry – 2012

The Late Peter Lean – 2011

Ron Beslich OAM – 2010

The Late Geoff Kennedy – 2009

Dick White OAM – 2008

Professor Tony Jorm – 2007

The Late Paul Henningham OAM – 2006

Phil Francis – 2005

Noel Trevaskis OAM – 2004

Michael Sawyer OAM – 2003

Fay Jackson – 2003

The Late Fred Hay – 2003

The Late Loch Adams OAM - 2003

DICK WHITE DISTRICT

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

2010 - District 9810 (VIC)

2011 - District 9680 (NSW)

2012 - District 9550 (QLD)

2013 - District 9830 (TAS)

2014 - District 9675 (NSW)

2015 - District 9650 (NSW)

2016 - District 9810 (VIC)

2017 - District 9830 (TAS)

2018 - District 9570 (QLD)

2019 - Districts 9450 & 9460 (WA)

2020 – Not Awarded

2021 – Not Awarded

2022 – Not Awarded

2023 – Not Awarded

2024 – District 9620 (QLD)

ROTARY AMBASSADORS

Central Region

Ian Oliver OAM

Terry Edwards AM

Barbara Wheatcroft

Allan Wilson

Dick Wilson

Northern Region

Jeff Crofts

John Gough

Peter Kaye

Mel Langley

Des Lawson OAM

Terry Lees OAM

Russ O’Malley

Rob Wylie

Southern Region

Terry Grant

Patrick Hartley

Judy Nettleton

Ron Pickford AM

Gregory Ross OAM

Graeme Woolacott OAM

Eastern Region

Phil Armstrong

Brian Beesley

Graeme Davies

John Egan

Alan Grady

Melvin Gray OAM

Denis Green

Tony Hennessy

Barney Koo

Phil Lacey

Harold Sharp OAM

Noel Trevaskis OAM

Don Whatham

Dick White OAM

Peter Williams

Western Region

Phil Cordery

Fred Marsh

Colin Thorniley

Districts of Australia