Honouring Rotary’s Spirit: The Royce Abbey Award

The Royce Abbey Award stands as one of the most meaningful recognitions within Rotary, celebrating Rotarians who embody the qualities of enthusiasm, commitment, and service. Since its establishment, the Award has encouraged members to embrace the spirit of Rotary and to Put life into Rotary – your life, the theme championed by Royce Abbey during his presidency of Rotary International in 1988-89.

A legacy of service

Royce Abbey AO DCM was a distinguished Rotarian and member of the Rotary Club of Essendon from 1954 until his passing in 2014 at the age of 91. As President of Rotary International, his leadership inspired countless Rotarians to engage more deeply with service, both locally and globally.

The Award named in his honour continues this legacy, recognising Rotarians who demonstrate the same energy, passion, and dedication that defined Royce’s life of service.

Recognising Rotarians worldwide

Since its inception, the Royce Abbey Award has been presented to more than 500 Rotarians across Australia and internationally. Each Awardee is selected by their Club President in recognition of their enthusiasm and commitment to the ideals of Rotary and encouraged to continue growing their Rotary journey.

The Award is often bestowed upon newer members to inspire their future in Rotary, but it is also available to long-standing members whose contributions continue to strengthen the Rotary family.

Supporting the future: the Royce & Jean Abbey Endowed Fund

Each Award also represents a donation of AUD $1,000 made by the sponsoring Rotary Club or District to the Royce & Jean Abbey Endowed Fund within The Rotary Foundation.

This Fund supports the Royce & Jean Abbey Vocational Scholarship, which provides three-month, USD $10,000 training opportunities in Australia for farmers, teachers, and community leaders—particularly from the Asia-Pacific region. The scholarship advances Rotary’s Seven Areas of focus and strengthens communities through practical, vocational development.

Looking ahead

The Royce Abbey Award is more than recognition—it is an investment in Rotary’s future. By celebrating members who live out the true spirit of Rotary and by funding opportunities for future leaders, the Award ensures that Royce Abbey’s legacy of service continues to flourish for generations to come.

For more information about the Royce Abbey Award, the Vocational Scholarship, or to access application forms, visit www.royceabbey.com