Rotary club is on a roll

By Lia Bichel
THE Rotary Club of Narre Warren celebrated a year of achievements and discussed plans for a successful future at the annual changeover on Sunday.
The club thanked the 2010-2011 President Roger Hall for his dedication to the club over the past 12 months, welcomed 2011-2012 president Roger McGill, honoured an active member of the community, and enjoyed an afternoon of food, drinks and socialising at the Cranbourne Golf Club.
Mr Hall spoke about the many highlights of the year including a matching grants program initiated by Rotarian Ian Pickering which raised $55,000 for a project in India and the monthly Bunnings barbecue which raised $15,600 for community projects.
Mr Hall also spoke about how the club has helped local schools, created their own logo, was one of seven Rotary Clubs to receive a citation, and welcomed new members.
“We had four new members this year who are all of high calibre,” he said.
“Membership is extremely important in Rotary and we thank the members who joined.”
The Highland Gathering and Anzac Day breakfasts were two other highlights throughout the year.
Mr McGill, who will be president of the club for the second time since joining Rotary in 1983, said he looked forward to carrying on the success of the club and thanked Mr Hall for all his work.
“I think this past year has been one of the great years for the club and it has been very well led. (Mr Hall) has left the club in a great state. It makes my life easier to take over a well-oiled club,” he said.
“I would also like to congratulate the board and Lyn (Pickering) who was secretary. She has not missed dotting an I or crossing a T.
Mr McGill spoke about his many objectives for the year, including continuing the clubs support of local and international projects, supporting Operation NewStart, installing fire alarms in elderly people’s homes, helping at schools and maintaining a strong relationship with the City of Casey.
Mr Hall also welcomed the new board members and congratulated Paul Harris Fellow of the year 2010-2011, Jeff Stone.
Mr Stone is well known for his involvement in fundraising for numerous programs and his work through the Dandenong Apex Club.
He is one of the main organisers of the club’s annual activity, The Dandenong Show, which raised about $25,000 annually for local charities.
Mr Stone said he was surprised, but thankful, for the recognition.
“I think it is an honour to do community service without recognition,” he said.
“But thank you to the Rotary Club of Narre Warren for the honour you have bestowed on me.”
Anyone wanting more information about the Rotary Club of Narre Warren can visit www.rotarynarrewarren.org.au.