Welcome to a brand-new Rotary year, inspired by the theme Unite for Good. 

What a wonderful evening we shared at Monday night’s Changeover Dinner at Kithbrooke Park. We were honoured to begin the night with an Acknowledgement of Country delivered by Surf Coast Shire Mayor Mike Bodsworth. President Bruce and District Governor Lesley then reflected on their year of leadership, highlighting the Club’s many achievements—including the successful District Conference—and the important role these efforts played in supporting our fundraising goals across local, national, and international communities. 

A heartfelt congratulations to both Alison Reed for her photography skills, capturing all the wonderful moments at conference & Gail Birchall, who received special recognition from DG Lesley for her tireless dedication as part of the District Conference organising committee. 

We also celebrated excellence through awards presented on the night: 

• Robyn O’Loughlin received an Avenue of Service Award for her outstanding contribution over the past five years as International Director 

• President Bruce honoured several members with Paul Harris Fellowships: John Oswald, Michael Reed, Mal Slater, Trevor Hall, and Trevor Brown— our deepest congratulations to all 

• Congratulations to Ben Featherstone who received a Rotary Club Recognition 

The evening concluded with my induction as President and the introduction of our new Board for the year ahead: 

• President Elect – Sue Currie 

• Immediate Past President & Membership – Bruce Turner 

• Secretary – Neil Henderson 

• Treasurer – Gerard Hogan 

• Vice President & Vocational – Michael Reed 

• Community Service – Linda Neale 

• Youth Service – Amanda Hough 

A sincere thank you to everyone who pitched in to set up and pack down—your help made it all run smoothly. Special thanks to Emma and her team for the beautiful meal, and to Jeremy for his efforts behind the bar. 

I’m looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible this coming Monday night at Kithbrooke Park as we plan for the year ahead. Please bring along your ideas, projects, and suggestions—everything’s up for discussion! 

Please click here to see more photos from last week's meeting.

Wishing you all a lovely weekend, 

Kelly 

President