Rotarians mark 100 years of giving back

MEMBERS and supporters of the Rotary Club of Ballarat have marked the one hundredth anniversary of the service organisation’s inaugural 1925 meeting during a civic reception at the Town Hall.

About 90 people were in attendance on Tuesday for the event hosted by City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves, which included presentations, a centenary book launch, and afternoon tea.

The legacy of Rotary in Ballarat was acknowleged, as were generations of members who have given time to fundraise and lift up the community.

Guest speaker was leading Rotarian Dr Jessie Harman AM who explored the club’s sense of leadership and resilience, and the progress of the global Rotary movement.

“It was a fantastic afternoon of celebration,” said Rotary Club of Ballarat 2025-26 president Peter Dunn.

“It was great to get some long-time members come back for this, and to meet the clubs like Melbourne, Geelong and Bendigo who chartered Ballarat.

“We’ve also met with some of the other Rotary clubs in Ballarat.

“The future is looking good for our club at a time where service clubs throughout the world are having trouble getting members.

The Rotary Club of Ballarat’s centenary history book chronicles a century of service, people, and projects. It features personal stories, photographs, and milestones to paint a portrait of how club activities have evolved.

“We’ve got SpringFest coming up, which is a major club effort, and we’re all working towards making that a success.”

Ballarat Rotarians of 57 years Graeme Eyres and Clark Chester – both former club presidents, secretaries and committee members – were in attendance.

Mr Chester said the club has lasted for so long due to its sense of camaraderie. “It’s great to see the past members back here today, and that is a tribute and a testament to that,” he said.

“We’ve been one happy band that enjoys our service.”

Mr Eyres said there have been countless moments to be proud of as a Ballarat Rotarian, including the introduction of women members. “That’s been marvellous for our club,” he said.

The club was the first Rotary group established in Ballarat, and the tenth in Australia. It was chartered by the Rotary Club of Melbourne in 1925.

Rotary was established in the early 1900s as an international community service organisation that didn’t have a single charitable purpose, but aimed to support many causes.

A Centenary Dinner will be held on Saturday 13 December at Mercure Ballarat. This date will mark the official anniversary of the club being chartered and accredited with Rotary International.