A meeting filled with honesty, humour and heartfelt reflection, we heard from three remarkable women at this week's Club meeting —each sharing the journey that shaped who they are today, and why Rotary matters in their lives.
Rosie Barber: Creativity, Courage and Connection
Rosie Barber brought warmth and authenticity as she shared her story—from her early years in Melbourne to building a life in Mount Eliza over the past two decades.
With a background that spans nursing, family life, and a lifelong passion for creativity, Rosie has embraced artistic expression through porcelain painting, stained glass, and now oil painting. As part of the Peninsula Studio Trail, she continues to open her studio to the community, inviting others to connect through art.
Her story was also one of resilience, speaking candidly about the loss of her husband 18 months ago, and her ongoing journey forward—supported by family, travel, and new experiences.
Looking ahead, Rosie spoke of embracing the road ahead with openness—meeting new people and continuing to grow through life’s changing seasons.
Glenys Denier: Service, Strength and Giving Back
Glenys reflected on a life shaped by both deep loss and enduring gratitude.
After losing her husband to melanoma while her children were still very young, Glenys spoke about the extraordinary support she received from her community—something that would later inspire her to “pay it forward” through Rotary.
Her message was clear: focus on the positives, even in the most difficult times.
Joining Rotary once her children were older, Glenys has continued to live out that commitment to service. Now part of the Rotary Club of Mount Eliza, she spoke of the importance of belonging, contribution, and the unique strength of the Rotary network.
Cathryn Leonard: A Career of Innovation and Impact
Cathryn’s story took us on a global journey—from her upbringing in Holland to a distinguished international career in nursing and medical technology.
After training in London near iconic landmarks like Lord’s Cricket Ground and Abbey Road, Cathryn worked across South Africa and Australia before transitioning into the medical device industry.
Her career evolved into roles in product management and clinical support, working across Australia and internationally in highly specialised areas including maxillofacial surgery, fertility diagnostics, and cardiothoracic innovation.
She played a key role in introducing advanced medical technologies, supporting surgeons in theatre, and even helping establish national and international clinical symposia.
Named Salesperson of the Year three times, Cathryn credits her success to deep product knowledge, strong customer relationships, and an unwavering commitment to going the extra mile.
The Power of Shared Stories
What made this session truly special wasn’t just the achievements—it was the openness.
These stories reminded us that behind every Rotarian is a lifetime of experiences: challenges faced, careers built, families raised, and communities supported.
It’s this depth of lived experience that strengthens Rotary—not just as an organisation, but as a community.
And as we heard so clearly throughout the session, service above self often begins with the moments that shape us most.
