Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rotary?

Rotary is a global network of community volunteers. Rotary members are generally business and professional leaders who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards and actively help build goodwill and peace in the world.

Is it American?

Rotary started in the USA in 1905, but quickly spread around the world. The first Australian Rotary Club was chartered in Melbourne in 1921. Each club has a high degree of independence, and to a large extent chooses its own programs. There are now more than1,200,000 Rotarians spread around 165 countries.

Is it only for men?

Not at all - women are very welcome in Rotary. The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap has quite a few female members, one of whom is our President this year. Family members of Rotarians are welcome to join in many of the Club’s activities.

Who can join Rotary?

Membership is open to business and professional people of all ages. Each member has a vocational classification, which ensures that the club represents a good cross section of the community.

What does Rotary do in the local community?

Some examples are Santa Sleigh, Scholarships, GRIPPS (Gap Regional Instrumental Primary Performers School), mental health forums, Community Citizenship ceremonies.

What does Rotary do around the world?

Some examples:

• Health (the International Polio eradication program, Rotary health research)
• Humanitarian projects (providing goods and hands-on help to disadvantaged countries)
• Education (school supplies, scholarships, the Peace Fellow program).

Do I have to attend regular meetings?

The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap has a dinner meeting every Wednesday. Some other clubs meet for lunch or for breakfast. Attendance of at least 50% of these meetings is expected, which means everyone keeps up to date with Rotary activities.

What else do I have to do, and will it take up a lot of my time?

We hope you can contribute your particular talents and your particular vocational expertise. As well as the weekly meetings, there are lots of different service activities and programs to get involved in. The amount of time you spend is entirely up to you.

What does it cost to be in Rotary?

Like any organisation, there are costs involved in administration, insurance, communications etc. Current subscriptions are just over $200 per year. Meeting fees are currently $23.00, which includes dinner. Personal contributions and donations to Rotary programs and charitable causes are at each member’s discretion.

I would like to be altruistic, but what do I get out of it?

• Meet other like minded people
• Networking
• Personal development (public speaking and organisational skills)
• Social interaction for you and your family
• Broaden your horizons
• International network – be assured of a welcome and something interesting to see around the world.

How do I find out more?

Send us a message and we’ll contact you.