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On Monday, the 13th of October, the Rotary Club of Camberwell lost not only a dedicated member but also a dear friend — Adrian Campbell. Adrian joined our club in October 2009, and just last year, in October 2024, I had the privilege of presenting him with his 15-year certificate of membership. That moment, as simple as it was, stood as a testament to his unwavering commitment to Rotary and to “Service above Self.” There is a story Adrian loved to tell about how he came to join the club. He had looked at several Rotary clubs, but Camberwell was the one that caught his attention. When a few members of the then committee visited his home to make sure he was “a person of good repute” — meaning no marijuana plants in the backyard and no car bodies lying around — Adrian chuckled. During the visit, he asked what projects the club was involved in. They mentioned a new initiative called ROMP, a project supporting those with Myeloma.  At that moment, Adrian knew he had found the right club. He had only recently been diagnosed with Myeloma himself — something very few people knew at the time. That coincidence, that connection, sealed his decision. It wasn’t just fate — it was purpose. From that day forward, Adrian gave himself wholeheartedly to Rotary. He was passionate about service to the community, the empowerment of youth, and peace in the world. He was instrumental in creating the Seeds of Peace program, a remarkable effort that led to the Rotary Club of Camberwell receiving the RSL Anzac Peace Prize in 2017 — the first time in history this award had ever been given to a Rotary club. His influence did not stop there; Adrian also played a pivotal role in helping the Rotary Club of Wodonga secure their Peace Bell, guiding them through the process with his characteristic generosity and patience.  Adrian served for many years on the Community Services and Youth & Vocation committees, and he chaired the Youth & Vocation committee for two years, right up until June 2025. When I was President-Elect, I asked Adrian to take on that role, and true to form, he said yes. What followed was nothing short of outstanding.  Under his leadership, the committee rebuilt strong relationships with local schools through scholarships, mock job interviews, and programs such as Chances Education, RYLA, and RYPEN. These connections continue to strengthen our ties with the community and provide opportunities for young people — a true reflection of Adrian’s legacy. He was also a tireless advocate on the ROMP Committee, continually pushing for better outcomes for people living with Myeloma — not only through Myeloma Australia but across Rotary clubs in regional Victoria. Through all of this, Adrian remained the same steady, kind, and humble person we all knew. Despite his illness he never complained. He never spoke ill of anyone and never allowed himself to get drawn into club politics. He simply rolled up his sleeves and got the job done — quietly, effectively, and always with grace. Adrian embodied the very spirit of Rotary — “Service Above Self.” Despite the challenges of his illness, he gave his time, energy, and heart to the causes he believed in. His presence, his humour, and his unwavering positivity will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We have lost an exceptional Person, Rotarian, Loyal member, and a good friend. His impact on this club and the wider Rotary community will endure for years to come and he will be sorely missed. Let us now take a moment’s silence in memory of Adrian Campbell — in gratitude for his service, in honour of his spirit, and in recognition of a life so well lived. Thank you. George de Souza Chair – ROMP Committee |
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