THE Rotary Club of Kerang has concluded another year of service to the local and international community through both hands-on service and fund-raising.
Outgoing president Tony Pearson said that the club continued to support local communities in a variety of ways.
“We can look back on our achievements and be proud of what we have achieved,” he said.
The club distributed $14,700 to a variety of beneficiaries, both local and worthy international, at the end of its 2024-2025 term.
Mr Pearson said that the club continued to conduct the junior leadership program for Grade 6 students at local schools, providing leadership knowledge for the next generation.
Rotary’s iconic train continued to provide fun for children at a number of events during the year.
The club continues to support the Gannawarra Goes Orange program to promote the need to reduce gender-based violence.
“The club took part in the walk against violence to increase the awareness of domestic violence and what we need to do as a community to reduce its occurrence,” Mr Pearson said.
The club continues to partner with Rotary clubs at Swan Hill to build a safe shelter for those escaping family violence.
Mr Pearson lauded the work of Jenny Kelly for her ongoing co-ordination of the annual Easter Art Show, involving more than 400 pieces and enabling the club to raise funds to donate to community and international projects.
He said that one of his biggest highlights was recognising two long-serving members. Philip Swifte celebrated 50 years service as a Rotarian and Ross Hall has been a member for 45 years.
Mr Swifte acknowledged past Rotarians in a ceremony at the start of the club’s changeover dinner and the club’s newest member, Meagan Wood, lit a candle as attendees stood in silence. The club has served the community since 1958.
Mr Pearson was congratulated for his leadership of the club after handing the symbols of office to Colleen Scriven, who previously led the club in 2014-2015.
Mrs Scriven was inducted in a short ceremony at the annual changeover dinner attended by Gannawarra deputy mayor, Cr Ross Stanton, several Swan Hill Rotarians and guests.
Her leadership team comprises president-elect Annette Kelly, past-president Tony Pearson, secretary Gerardine Prendergast, treasurer Sid Hutchinson, project management Jenny and Michael Kelly, club service Annette Kelly, Rotary foundation Megan Wood, public relations Ron Kelly and sergeants-at-arms Philip Davey and Greg Price.
Mrs Scriven said that she wanted to focus, not only on continued service, but enticing more people to consider joining as members.
Membership enquiries can be made through Annette Kelly on 0409 183 354.
Next week: Celebrating Annette and Ron Kelly, who are now Paul Harris Fellows.
