Soak up the pulsating excitement of Australia’s very own brand of Football - Australian Rules Football - first played in 1858. Join us on Saturday afternoon 27th May at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a world recognized high-capacity Stadium previously the venue for the Olympic and Commonwealth Games. You will be captivated by the unique fast moving combined hand and foot skills and ability to catch (mark) an oval leather ball high in the air.

One of the things for which Melbourne is renowned is the Sand Belt of eight world-class golf courses, and one of them is Victoria Golf Club, site of the Australian Open in November 2022.  Because many Rotarians would enjoy the opportunity to play on such a course, we have arranged for a Rotary day at Victoria Golf Course on Friday 26th May 2023 (the convention starts on Sunday 28th May). 

Our fabulous welcome cultural event will be the chance to catch up with fellow Rotarians at one of Melbourne’s iconic venues – The Melbourne Museum. Experience the many exhibits to gain an understanding of Melbourne’s culture, including the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre and The Melbourne Story featuring Australia’s most famous horse and hero of the depression, Phar Lap whilst enjoying our special Victorian food and beverage offerings.

Share the evening with local Rotarians at a club-hosted event across metropolitan Melbourne. Club Hosted events will depart from your hotel, or one very close by, and you will be returned to the same point.  You do not have to select an event as they are randomly allocated, by hotel, and approved by the HOC.  Coach transfers are provided.

Melbourne is famous for its amazing food and welcoming, multicultural community. On Monday and Tuesday evening you will have the opportunity to experience both on the doorstep of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre at the Streets of Melbourne event held exclusively for Rotarians in the South Wharf dining precinct. All cuisines are catered for in each restaurant and your ticket will entitle you to a selection of locally sourced offerings with drinks available for purchase.

The Melbourne Cup is Australia's most famous annual Thoroughbred horse race held on the first Tuesday in November as part of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival. First run in 1861 and won by Phar Lap in 1930, it is the richest two-mile handicap in the world and is known locally as 'the race that stops the nation'. You will be able to experience first hand the glamour and excitement of the Cup at its home, Flemington Racecourse and even have the opportunity for a photo with the trophy. You will enjoy complimentary return travel on an exclusive Rotary Express train and enjoy superlative Victorian cuisine, served with Premium Treasury Wines.