Welcome to the website of the Rotary Club of Dundee, as we enter our second Century of service to communities in this proud City and beyond.

It is an honour and privilege to be Club President during session 2022-23, and I thank Immediate Past President Andy Argo for his work during the Centennial and all officer bearers and members who have brought us through the difficulties of the last couple of years.

As we move on from COVID, I want to see the Club continuing its recovery with activities settling back into a more traditional pattern. I am keen that we get back to working directly with communities and supporting local projects, while at the same time maintaining a wider view of opportunities, which may present elsewhere. There are already some good initiatives developing and I have encouraged each committee to use imagination when considering where we might make a difference. There is no doubt communities will face many challenges again this year. Rising food and fuel prices threaten poverty for those who have so far avoided it.

International problems such as the war in Ukraine and the refugee crisis it has created are on a scale not seen in Europe for almost eighty years. Rotarians the world over have responded in a fantastic way – but the problem is still acute and the crises that it is causing are likely to be with us for years to come. As a club, we have already made substantial financial contributions, but we will actively review the position, to identify and address need, whenever possible. Our long-standing support for Rotary Foundation is something we are rightly proud about, and I will ensure that suitable international projects continue to receive our support.

Now, more than anytime previously, Rotarians across the world and partner organisations need to work more closely together to leverage positive outcomes and I welcome all occasions where we can actively collaborate to beneficial effect. I know that all the Chairs and their Committees will do an excellent job, supported by the broader membership, which grew by nine last year, a wonderful achievement! It is my intention to maintain that momentum by continuing to apply our recruitment strategy and have even more engagement with Rotaract and Interact, where longer-term involvement in the ideals of Rotary is nurtured. At the end of this Rotary year, if we have had success in raising some money, participating in our community, growing our club, and enjoying ourselves in the process, then I see that as success.

If you read this as a member of the public, interested in supporting your community through involvement with Rotary, then I would encourage you to contact us for more information. There is no harm in giving it a go and I can promise a very warm welcome and rewarding experience.

If you read this as a serving Rotarian, I wish you well in your objectives for this year and thank you for your service and commitment.

Scott Williamson President 2022-23