Normally a highlight on the Dundee calendar, the Dundee Rotary Club induction dinner this year had to adapt to the Covid-19 crisis and hold the event via Zoom, with Rotarians seated in their homes.
Despite the pandemic, ‘virtual’ meetings have continued in this manner. The new Rotary year began at the end of June with the induction of president Johann du Plessis and his directors taking office.
“This was quite a challenge, as we usually have a formal dinner where the chain of office of the president is handed over, and various toasts and speeches are made. We still did this, but from our own homes,” said Mandy Goettsch of the Dundee Rotary Club.
The local Rotarians have been very busy during the lockdown, with members working tirelessly to ensure the distribution of food parcels, clothing and other essentials.
The Rotary International President’s theme for the coming year is ‘Rotary Opens Opportunities’, which is fitting for the times the world finds itself in.
“We have become more aware of the needs of others and the hardships faced by our communities, presenting us with opportunities to broaden the scale and context of our understanding of our service ideals, actions and challenges.”
The Rotarians will continue to hold their bi-weekly meetings through Zoom.
“The work of our club and the service we need to render has not stopped because of the lockdown, but has in fact become more necessary than ever.
“The reality is that our world has changed and we have needed to adapt to the change in terms of meetings, communication and even fund-raising activities.
“Our club is continuing to assist wherever possible, and we are making every effort to deal with the challenges and render the services our community so desperately needs.”
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