THE Rotary Club of Kerang has a new president, with Gerardine Prendergast installed as its latest leader.
The service group held its annual changeover dinner on June 30, where outgoing president Ron Kelly handed the baton over to Mrs Prendergast who has completed two terms as president previously.
She told the Gannawarra Times it was a feeling of immense satisfaction.
“I was president back in 2011/12 and joint president in 2019/20,” she said.
“I am very proud to lead this club for the 2022/23 year”.
Mrs Prendergast labelled the night a success, with about 30 people in attendance.
“Gannawarra Shire councillor Travis Collier was in charge of proceedings and called for the lighting of the candle in remembrance of past Rotarians, and then as council representative, recognised contributions Rotary has made for the community and beyond,” she said.
“We had our meal, and afterwards, Ron did his outgoing speech before inducting me.”
Mr Kelly said Rotaries activities were somewhat curtailed in the past 12 months by continuous COVID-19 restrictions, but was still able to achieve much despite being plunged into virtual meetings.
“We did many new things this year such as our inaugural Freshed Art second-hand artwork market, we held successful market stalls at the Cohuna Farmers and Makers Market, catered for the big fly-in event at the airport and placed the first of our historic plaques on town buildings.
“Rotarians were able to travel further afield this year with our schoolies alternative tree planting trip to East Gippsland. Of course, our signature projects still continued as well with yet another fantastic Easter art show, Australia Day breakfast and regular outings of our train.”
Mr Kelly highlighted the completion of stage one of the centennial trail with the bridge over the waterway, with further improvements during the coming years.
The group also presented cash donations to various organisations.
“At the close of the year, we distributed over $15,000 to many worthy recipients from our fundraising efforts, an amazing result,” he said.
“My thanks go to each and every member of our club and also the many extra helpers who have also made the year a successful enjoyable one.”
After addressing the room and introducing her board, Mrs Prendergast outlined her aspirations for the next 12 months.
“My hope is we will be able to connect more with our local community and find out from them what they would like to see us doing to help the community,” she said.
“I would like to see more members and probably a year of doing projects but having fun whilst doing it.”
Mrs Prendergast also plans to continue some of the club’s ongoing projects and follow in the footsteps of the new Rotary International president, Jennifer Jones.
“We want to complete stage two of our centennial walking track and continue installing plaques across some of the town’s most famous sites.
“When Ron swore me in, he handed me a theme banner which this year is the Rotary International presidents theme that we all imagine and recognise the impact Rotary Club can have on the world.”
Gwen Mannix retains the secretary position, Tony Pearson was elected treasurer, Terry Ayres continues as project management director, Bruce Carey as Rotary Foundation director, and Greg Price has the important membership portfolio. Public relations will be managed by Nathan Hipworth.
