President Mike welcomed all members, wives, husbands, partners, and friends, with a special welcome to wives of passed members.
Presentations were made for the following Awards:
The ‘New Incentives Trophy’ was awarded to David Gledhill and Richard Perry for organising the wonderful excursion through the Wairarapa, with lunch at the historic Gladstone Hotel. This outing both provided an opportunity for fellowship, and a chance to invigorate ourselves to continue in our quest to help others.
The ‘Committee Cup’ was awarded to the International Committee for raising over $4000 for the Rotary Fiji Dental Project, at a very enjoyable ‘Quiz and Auction’ evening, also attended by volunteer dentists and friends, who were extremely impressed and grateful for this support.
A Paul Harris Fellowship Sapphire Pin was awarded to Tony Cornelius for his substantial, ongoing work as Treasurer for over six years ensuring that our financial resources are managed efficiently and effectively, and importantly, regularly keeping the President and Board informed.
A Paul Harris Fellowship Double Sapphire Pin was also awarded to Jaye Howey for her unstinting support of Rotary, particularly with positively enriching the lives of children and young people, and especially her 17 years involvement providing Usborne Dictionaries to low socio-economic schools in the area as well as her important role over many years as our Media Liaison person and Club photographer.
We were entertained by international singer and performer, Rosel Labone, who enthralled us with a range of musical genres, with music ranging from classical to the likes of Billy Joel and Elton John.
In his President’s final address to Changeover, Mike spoke of the privilege of holding this position, particularly because of the people in the Club, and their willingness to help others. He acknowledged the recent passing of Jan Alford, Sheila Ballantyne, and Bill Boyd. After thanking individuals at the recent Club Forum, at Changeover he wanted to thank all Club members, as well as partners and families for the contribution and support given to the Club. He spoke of the many organisations and young people the Club has supported directly, and indirectly, by supporting other community organisations. Indeed, the Club has contributed $23,417 to help others during the year. Mike stated that he had really enjoyed his year as President, expressed gratitude, for the support received, but was now happy to pass the chains onto Glenda.
