04/06/2026
Thank you Don
Today, we honour the life and legacy of 𝐃𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐨𝐧, who has passed away at the remarkable age of 101.
Don was more than a dedicated Rotarian.
He was one of the visionaries who helped bring Australian Rotary Health to life.
In the early 1980s, when Ian Scott first proposed the idea of a national Rotary-funded health research foundation, Don was among those who saw the potential of what could be achieved.
As the President of the Rotary Club of Mornington, a key member of the inaugural committee established to guide the project, and later a Foundation Member of Australian Rotary Health, Don played a pivotal role in helping transform an ambitious idea into reality.
More than four decades later, that vision has grown into Australia's largest independent funder of mental health research. Australian Rotary Health has invested tens of millions of dollars into research, scholarships and health initiatives that have improved the lives of countless Australians.
That impact exists because people like Don believed it was possible.
Throughout his life, Don remained a passionate supporter of Australian Rotary Health and Rotary's commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of communities. In recognition of his extraordinary contribution, he was honoured as an Australian Rotary Health Ruby Companion. His legacy will continue to be felt through every researcher, scholar and community touched by the work he helped create.
Because of Don.
Because of his vision. Because of his belief in a better future. Lives have been changed.
On behalf of Australian Rotary Health, we extend our deepest condolences to Don's family, friends, fellow Rotarians and the Rotary Club of Mornington.
Thank you, Don.
Your legacy lives on.
