President Jillian's comments
I thought my words might have escaped this edition of the Bulletin but editor Gil had other ideas!
Thank you to those who came to our Changeover night at the Packing Shed on Tuesday night. We enjoyed good company, Rebecca did us proud with the food and we were well entertained by Martin Curtis with his folk ballads and humorous poems. I thought that the evening had a nice feel about it.
It was good to host Jean Bonsor and to allow her to be waited on for a change. A small thank you for all she does for us each fortnight.
Lee-Ann Murray joined us representing the Queenstown Club. She is also D9999’s Community Services person for the Central Otago area. Basically, a support person for the Central Otago clubs. With the other presidents and president elects, we will meet every so often to discuss things Rotary!
On behalf of you all, I would like to thank John for a job well done leading the Club over the past year. He began with a well-received initiative to introduce craft beer to the pre-dinner drinks selection and ended on a high note with a very successful Charity Auction and Dinner.
The Club is in good heart. We raised a good amount of money, supported many causes, listened to some interesting speakers, enjoyed each other’s company and have had fun this past year. I wish John and Bronwyn a ‘relaxing’ time with their family in England over the next couple of months.
Some very good news in our Rotary succession plan is that Bernie Lepper is our President Elect. She will be a great addition to the team.
Continuing as Directors are two very long serving members, Greg as Club Secretary and Graham as Club Treasurer. John will add Past President to his role, Mark continues as Social Coordinator, Rhys on Foundation and Polio Plus initiatives, Arnold with Youth activities and Carolyn joins the team as Community Services Director. Stepping down is Gordon. Many thanks for all you have done over the past years. Andrew is taking on the role of media and PR expert, Richard continues in the speaker role and Gil, the Bulletin.
The Rotary International theme for the incoming year is ‘The Magic of Rotary’. i.e. Rotarians creating the Magic with every project completed, every dollar raised, and every new member inducted. It links in well with the District goals to increase the impact and reach of Rotary by engaging more with the other CO Rotary Clubs, local organisations, business and community.
Our Club’s success is due to the strength of the whole team which operates like a well-oiled machine with many parts, making the projects happen. Thank you to you all for the many roles you take on.
I would like to build on the things that we do well, consider those we can do better and continue to enhance the Rotary Club of Alexandra’s 80-year legacy of community service, good humoured fellowship and fun. I am looking forward to the year ahead as your President!
Jillian
