Rotary wheel turns once more
The Richards Bay Rotary Club last week welcomed their newly elected president
THERE were many highlights at the Richards Bay Rotary Club induction dinner held at the Blue Marlin Guest House in Meerensee on Friday evening.
These included the handing over of the presidency for the 2016/17 year, bestowing of a prestigious Paul Harris Fellow award and naming of the Rotarian and Anne of the year.
Veteran community stalwart Louis van Zyl and his wife Mari took over the reins from Chris and Iris Valentine, who had plenty to report back on when it came to activities over the ‘roller coaster’ past year.
‘Being president of Rotary made me realise that the crosses in life we bear are dwarfed by those with real problems,’ said Chris.
‘I would hope that these experiences will increase my strength and conviction so I can continue to grow and be a gift to the world.’
He listed numerous Rotary involvements, including donations to the SPCA from the Anne’s, the ‘Hang Out with Madiba’ event, a golf day that raised R32 000, hosting the Golden Years Senior Citizens and Amangwe Village teas, CANSA Tea on the Terrace, a bowls day, winter warmth blanket project, and the wheelchair, Tom Shoes and Mahindra solar lights campaigns.
‘And of course a big one was the recent music trivia evening we almost cancelled, but which raised over R104 000 for wheelchairs.’
On this note, Arthur Gray was named Rotarian of the Year, with special reference to the major part he played in heading the Community Services portfolio that has secured funding for 418 wheelchairs.
Together with his wife Diane, ‘Mr Wheelchair’, as he is fondly known, has been arranging the purchase, logistics and distribution of the chairs since 2012.
Lindy Neser received the Anne of the Year accolade from outgoing President Ann, Iris Valentine, who said Lindy’s enthusiasm, support and energy were worthy of this top honour.
Blessing to community
For her contribution to the community in many roles – most notably for her passion for helping the elderly, Lynn Addyman was given the Paul Harris Fellow medal.
Having started 20 years ago assisting with transport for seniors, Lynn took over the running of the Golden Years Club and continues to bless the elderly by arranging entertainment, devotions, talks, outings and weekly get-togethers.
‘In addition to her many spiritual commitments, Lynn also counsels the seniors and helps them obtain banking, pension, medical, legal and other support – a true blessing to them,’ said Chris.
In his acceptance speech, incoming president Louis van Zyl emphasised Rotary’s increasing value to the community, saying members were ‘lifelines, healers, helpers, builders and supporters’.
While calling for a ‘return to basics’, at the same time he appreciated major international changes that will see Rotary clubs become more flexible and innovative.
‘My focus will be on the major projects started by the previous leadership and more especially on accessing global grants.
‘And while life can be incredibly serious, a little laughter, a dash of fun and a splash of Rotary serve as a good reminder that good things also happen, and life can be better if we make it so.’
