Main Content

About Us: Rotary Club of West Perth

History of the Rotary Club of West Perth (Incorporated)

The Rotary Club of West Perth had its first positive step towards formation on March 19, 1954 under the auspices of the Mt. Lawley Rotary Club's Extension Committee.

After a survey of classifications and the formalities for formation the Club had its inaugural meeting on Monday June 14, 1954. Representatives of 30 classifications were present, none of whom were or had been Rotarians.

As the whole of the area in which the proposed Rotary Club of West Perth was to carry out it's future activities was already allocated to other Clubs in the immediate vicinity, it was necessary for Rotary Clubs of Perth, Mt. Lawley and Subiaco to cede some of their territory to enable its establishment. The allocated area was to become one of the smallest areas of territory in the then district of 34.

Initially this area was highly industrialised. This enabled the Club to be established on a sound basis with excellent prospects for development in membership, and the opportunity to promote the principles of Rotary through a wide range of classifications.

Today the nature of the classifications within the Club has changed considerably in keeping with the developments for the City of Perth which has extended business and professions into the Club's area. Also the construction of a major roadway and interchange has intruded on much of the area formerly occupied by industry.

The current Club Banner symbolises West Perth, picturing gracious colonial buildings, leafy garden settings and showing the nearby skyline of the City of Perth.

The initial meeting of the Club was conducted on Thursday June 24, 1954. The Charter Night was held on Monday September 27, 1954. An important point to record is that the Club Charter was granted during the golden Anniversary year for Rotary International.

In March 1957, the Club was the Host for the 6th Annual Conference for the 34th District. Records signify a successful and memorable achievement for a Club which at that time had only three years of service within the district. The Club again hosted a District Conference in 2002 at Burswood.

Since its Charter, the Rotary Club of West Perth has been responsible for promoting and completing many successful and rewarding projects in all services of Rotary, not only within its own area but also at District level. The Club has established and maintained an excellent percentage in status for Rotary Foundation.

In the spirit of promoting the ideals of Rotary, the Club recorded further history when the Extension Committee arranged the Charter Night of the Kings Park Club which took place on April 22, 1977. The establishment of this new club was achieved through the co-operation of the Rotary Clubs of Perth, West Perth, Nedlands and Floreat Park in ceding and adjusting their territories.