New presidents take the reins of Germiston Rotary Club
The Germiston Rotary Club held their 90th annual Presidents Induction Dinner on Thursday.
There was a sense of festivity in the air as members of the Germiston Rotary Club, Germiston Rotary Anns, friends, family and special guests met at Simple Majestic in Lambton for the 90th annual President’s Induction Dinner on Thursday.
John Anticevich, a district representative, shared a special message with those in attendance bidding a fond farewell to the outgoing president of the Germiston Rotary Club and Germiston Rotary Anns, Benaud and Wendy Barker and welcoming the new presidents Hugo du Rand and Lyn Opie.
“Welcome to the new presidents and know that we, the district, will be here to support you,” John said.
He also encouraged the members to develop rotary membership in all levels of society, from the youth to businessmen and women and everywhere in between.
ALSO READ: Carnival hosts Rotary Fundraiser
It was then time for Benaud and Wendy to officially hand over the reigns and to wish their successors all the best on their journey ahead.
“A sisterhood is a bond like no other. We may be separated by DNA but we are bonded by our passions, our ups and downs, our hopes and our dreams.
“I am truly honoured to be chosen as the Germiston Rotary Anns 90th president and know following Wendy’s footsteps will certainly be big shoes to fill and we have all learnt so much under her leadership.
“A big thank you goes to Wendy for her dedication, hard work and the inspiration she has been to us,” said Lyn, as incoming president.
She further stated that the theme of ‘Be the Inspiration’ was fitting as in the year ahead she plans to grow the membership of the organisation while encouraging new members to reach their full potential and to really make a difference.
ALSO READ: Rotary’s annual Prefects Evening
Hugo, who started his career as a Rotaract member, then took his turn at the podium.
“This is a special day and I feel privileged to be here as part of 1.2 million friends, leaders and problem solvers who see a world where people take action,” Hugo began.
“Rotary is a special organisation with 35 000 clubs globally but I want to thank this one, the Germiston Rotary Club, for entrusting me with their leadership position.
“I am honoured and humbled about it.”
He reminded members that the night was not just about celebrating his induction but the club’s accomplishments as well.
“The club has put service above self for 90 years and has come a long way since being chartered in 1929.
“It has overcome many challenges and will continue to do so under my leadership and the leadership to follow,” he said.
Hugo believes one of the hardest challenges ahead of him will be membership and the retention of members.
“I think we are going to stretch our comfort zone this year and ask you to work with me this year,” Hugo said.
The evening was closed with the Rotary’s four-way test before members took the opportunity to socialise and personally congratulate the new presidents.
Have a story?
Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.zaor Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist) kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za
Remember to visit the Germiston City News on the following social media platforms:
Or add the GCN on WhatsApp 079 406 1181 or BBM (BBM Pin: 7F102137) today, to get all the latest news.
Catch-up on more local news with our sister newspapers Bedfordview Edenvale News, Alberton Record and Kempton Express.
