What better occasion to honour someone, than when the District Governor visits. Accompanied by his family, Wim Julicher was presented the Paul Harris Fellowship tonight. It was a huge surprise and there was the odd tear in the eye I believe!
Wim joined Eastern Hutt Rotary on 26th June 1995, when Dave Wilson was President. His classification at that time was Tiling Contractor and a measure of his competence as a skilled tradesman, was he secured a contract to do tiling at Parliament. Members also engaged him for his expertise.
Being physically demanding, he decided it was time to change and was attracted to the Wairarapa, buying land to grow olives. This move generated a regular fund raising opportunity for EH Rotary, as members loved going over there to help plant the trees. But he soon realised that wine was a better option and once again members helped out picking grapes. The fun and hospitality was outstanding.
Sadly, Wim's former wife Sue died and this affected all of the Members because they shared so much time together. But it gave him much joy when Sue Darling came into his life, to support him and our 'gang' - she has been an inspiration to us all.
His winery Julicher Estate in Martinborough has received many awards for the quality wine they produce. Significantly, he would drive to and from Rotary each Monday from Martinborough, a measure of his Rotary commitment, love of service and Membership fellowship.
Wim thoroughly deserves this Paul Harris Fellowship award, as a dedicated Rotarian, service and generosity to a wide range of the community.