March to Distinguished
March to Distinguished: Proof That Every Club Can Succeed
District 17’s March to Distinguished campaign (17 March – 17 April) was designed to build early momentum by helping clubs focus on the fundamentals that matter most—member achievement, effective leadership, and strong, engaging meetings. The results have been nothing short of inspiring.
By 17 April, 20 clubs had already achieved Distinguished, Select Distinguished, President’s Distinguished or the most prestigious Smedley Distinguished status, securing their place on the March to Distinguished Honour Roll. These clubs demonstrated that with focus, teamwork, and consistent action, success does not have to wait until year‑end.
A special shout‑out goes to Canning Vale Toastmasters and Victoria Park Toastmasters, the first clubs in District 17 to achieve inaugural Smedley Distinguished recognition. This exceptional milestone, named after the founder of Toastmasters International – Ralph C Smedley, required clubs to reach 25 or more members while also completing all 10 Distinguished Club Program goals—a powerful demonstration of both membership strength and excellence across every area of club performance.
Equally inspiring are the stories of clubs that, just months ago, believed Distinguished status was out of reach. Currambine Toastmasters has achieved a remarkable turnaround—growing from 12 to 20 members and completing five goals. Multicultural Mandurah Toastmasters, starting the year with just nine members, achieved net growth to 12 members and completed seven goals. Durack Toastmasters, rebuilding after recent challenges, has grown from 15 to 18 members and is closing in on the 20‑member mark.
Another one for the records is Kaya Toastmasters—only 12 months old and already President’s Distinguished, with sights firmly set on Smedley next.
These examples send a powerful message: you are never too small, too new, or too far gone to be Distinguished.
With ten weeks remaining until 30 June, now is the time to act. Review your goals, choose the next achievable step, and rally your members. Every speech submitted, every new member, and every leadership action moves your club forward.
Aim for the Honour Roll—and let’s celebrate your success at Conference as we finish the year stronger together.
Track Club progress! Toastmasters International Dashboard for District 17
What does it take to be Distinguished or Higher? Check out the requirements at the top of the Honour Roll and see our list of 20 Clubs that have achieved Distinguished or higher already! We will keep updating this Honour Roll until the end of 30 June – we hope to see your club’s name on it soon!
