THE Rotary Club of Port Macquarie contributed $55,285 to the community during the past year.
The amazing tally was reported at the club’s changeover dinner last Wednesday night.
Donations included $7200 to Australian Rotary Health, $4000 to Rotary Lodge, $3000 for work on Tanna Island and $2600 to the Rotary Foundation, as well as many $1000 donations to various projects.
At the dinner Ted Giblin also handed the presidency to Debbie Loveday.
The function was attended by members of other Rotary clubs, Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams, members of other organisations, the district governor’s representative, Neville Parsons from Wauchope, and the governor-designate Ian Jackson from Laurieton.
Among the highlights of the past very successful year had been the establishment of Australia’s only community-based Interact club, another successful craft expo, the conduct of emergency services volunteer awards, a book sale and, for a while, a book store, functions for Australian Rotary Health and work on Rotary Lodge, the Rotary Community Centre and Rotary Park.
Mr Giblin said membership stood at 50.
Paul Harris Fellow awards were given to John Sheppard (a sapphire award) and Debbie Loveday and Frank Beukers.
Helen Crossley received a silver friend recognition for Australian Rotary Health.
A minute’s silence was held for the club’s only honorary member, Max Starr, who died the day before the changeover dinner.
