About Rotary Down Under
For 60 years, Rotary Down Under has been the voice of Rotary in Australia, New Zealand and the South West Pacific.
Since April 1965, we have connected Rotarians, shared stories of service and strengthened Rotary’s public image – reflecting a deep commitment to humanitarian service, community engagement and leadership. We share the highlights and achievements of Rotarians serving communities throughout our region and beyond.
Our story
Rotary Down Under plays a vital role in promoting Rotary’s impact. Each issue showcases inspiring community projects, disaster relief, youth programs and global initiatives across the region. By highlighting work in Rotary’s seven areas of focus, the magazine raises Rotary’s profile and reinforces its values of service, fellowship, diversity and integrity.
The magazine also strengthens membership by connecting Rotarians across vast distances, reinforcing shared purpose and fostering engagement. Through storytelling and powerful imagery, it inspires new members and showcases Rotary’s impact.
As media evolves, so too does Rotary Down Under – now embracing digital editions, social media, videos and online storytelling. Staying true to its mission of service and connection, it ensures Rotary’s message of Service Above Self remains strong for generations to come.
How did we get here?
The idea began in the early 1960s, when Rotarians from Bayswater, Vic, and Newtown, NSW, saw a need for a regional publication. Rotary International’s The Rotarian lacked Southern Hemisphere content. Bayswater president Jim Robinson, Les Gilbert and Paul Henningham of Newtown launched Rotary Down Under in 1965.
Despite some early resistance, they secured support from all 11 Australian district governors to trial the magazine. It quickly succeeded, and the 1965-66 governors became the first Board of Rotary Down Under, a not-for-profit association. Paul Henningham, a suburban newspaper proprietor, served as founding editor, leading the magazine for 19 years before handing over to Bob Aitken, who continued as managing editor for another 30. Today, the legacy is carried on by General Manager Gay Kiddle, Club Relationships and Merchandise Manager Sam Ausburn, Editor Meagan Martin, Creative and Digital Director Rhys Martin and Proofreader Gwen Walker.
“Rotary’s magazines are a primer for Rotary members, keeping us informed on the who, what, when, where, why and how of the world. Without the magazines, everything is just happenstance.”
Sylvia Whitlock | First female Rotary club president
Fun Facts
We may be based in Sydney, NSW, but Rotary Down Under is read by Rotarians in more than 15 countries, including New Zealand, American Samoa, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu. It also reaches nations like the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Norfolk Island and Timor-Leste.
A trailblazer
In 1965, Rotary Down Under became the first regional magazine to be granted official status by the RI Board of Directors.
Award-winning design
Rotary Down Under has been recognised multiple times for excellence in editorial design and communication, reflecting the high calibre of its production.
Stories that travel
Many stories first published in Rotary Down Under have been republished in Rotary International’s flagship Rotary magazine as well as in other regional Rotary magazines, including Great Britian & Ireland and India – highlighting the region’s impact on a global scale.
Reader-driven content
Most stories come directly from Rotary clubs, showcasing grassroots service projects, fellowships and member achievements.
How do we work?
Rotary Down Under is produced by a small, dedicated team, including our general manager, club relationship manager, editor, creative director, proofreader and contributors who are all passionate about journalism, design and service.
We are governed by a Council made up of past district governors as well as a district governor and district governor nominee representative.
Our mission is to share the impact of our members and clubs in solving some of our communities’ toughest challenges – and to inspire others to get involved.
