Friday night 2nd July was our Club’s Changeover Dinner, where President Desmond Woods handed over the (heavy) Chain of Office to incoming President Sandra Turner. It was a night of officialdom and fun as the proceedings of the evening were interspersed with a quiz, expertly run by MC and quizmaster, Natalie Vandepeer-Bradley.
Guests included District 9705 DG Leo Farrelly, DG Nominee Andrea Grosvenor and Area Governor Georgie Le Couteur.
Incoming President Sandra and President Elect Chris Angus both became Paul Harris Fellows for their consistent work for our Club and President Desmond recognised many other members with PHF pins for their significant contributions, including; Allison Russel-French, David Marshall and Alan Scandrett, Michele Whitters, Barbara and Richard Griffiths.
We farewelled long-term Rotarians Michelle and Richard at this meeting as Richard takes a break after many years of service and Michele transfers to a Club closer to her home. Former Rotarian Judith Connelly was acknowledged by the President for her work as Secretary for the first six months of the year.
PDG Michael recognised Phil Byrne for his work as an Area Governor (who could not attend the recent District Changeover) and President Desmond was awarded a PHF pin by outgoing Foundation Director, Paul O’Connor, for his leadership throughout the last year.
In a break from normal tradition, President Desmond bestowed a double Rotarian of the Year Award. The Award went to PDG Michael Moore (for his work as first District Governor of D9705 and for still supporting our Club along the way) and to PP Helen Moore for her support to the Club and for supporting the PDG in his role - and especially for stepping in as Club Secretary at short notice in January of this year.
President Sandra was presented with the new RI Banner, with this year’s theme ‘Serve to Change Lives’ by DG Leo Farrelly. She spoke about the importance of equity and diversity in line with the RI President’s theme and the need for flexibility in such a time of change. The importance of having a diverse and committed membership with engaging projects that fulfil member needs was also addressed. President Sandra closed by introducing the 2021-22 Board and thanked everyone in advance for the support and guidance she knows she will receive in the coming year.
