IN THE season of President changeovers for Rotary Clubs across Port Stephens and beyond, the Raymond Terrace Rotary Club have held their Annual Changeover dinner.

For the Raymond Terrace Rotarians, it was determined that current President Mr Steve Merritt will continue as President for a second year.

The evening became a celebration of the many successes the Club enjoyed throughout the year.

President Steve told News Of The Area, “I attribute the successes of the Club to the hard work and Merritt of Club members in both fundraising and in front line delivery to the community.”

“Rotary has worked alongside other community groups including the Salvation Army, Friends with Dignity, and Port Stephens Council.”

“Our best results come from the combined efforts of like minded community groups.”

During the evening, President Merritt thanked local business including Bunnings and Marketplace for their continuing support that enabled the funds raised from the public, to go so much further.

A selection of highlights celebrated included the organisation of Australia Day Celebrations in Raymond Terrace, Pride of Workmanship Awards, and the Annual Primary School Debating Competition.

In working with other community groups, the standout events included raising funds for Drought Relief and the recent visit to Raymond Terrace of the Rotary Men’s Health Education Rural Van, previously covered in the News Of The Area.

Over two days the Van averaged an assessment every 11 minutes with three people identified with life threatening conditions and referred to their doctors for immediate follow up.

Within Rotary, the highest recognition a Club can bestow is the award of a Paul Harris Fellow named after the founder of the Rotary organisation.

At the Changeover Dinner President Steve presented the Award to members Ms Jacky Gendre and Mr Richard South in recognition of their outstanding personal contribution to the Club and to Rotary in general.

In Mr South’s case that contribution spans almost 40 years in which time he has held almost every position within the club.

Ms Gendre is a Past President of the club, the Coordinator of the local Driver Training Program, and is the Rotary District Foundation Grants Chair.

Special guests included Councillor Arnott, Chief Inspector Tony Townsend and Ruby Porter representing Kate Washington.

 

By Heather SHARP