Rotary is one of the world’s oldest and largest service organisations, bringing together people from different professions to improve communities and promote peace.  It's story began with a simple idea of friendship and professional networking that grew into a global movement dedicated to humanitarian service.

Rotary was founded February 23rd 1905 in Chicago Illinois USA by Paul P Harris a lawyer who wanted to create a club where business professionals could build lasting friendships while supporting one another. Harris invited three friends to join him for the first meeting:  Silvester Schiele, a coal merchant; Gustavus Loehr, a mining engineer; and Hiram E Shorey, a tailor.

The group decided to hold meetings at the offices and workplaces of different members, rotating from one location to another.  This practice inspired the name ROTARY. As membership grew, the club expanded its focus beyond business networking to community service and charitable projects.

One of Rotary’s earliest community initiatives was the construction of a public comfort station in Chicago, demonstrating the organisations commitment to addressing local needs.  This marked the beginning of Rotary’s tradition of service about self, a principle that continues to guide its members today.

Fast forward to today and Rotary International includes more than 1.4 million members in over 200 countries and geographic areas. Guided by its motto SERVICE ABOVE SELF Rotary continues to unite people from diverse backgrounds to create positive and lasting change in communities around the world.