GUEST speaker Tony Windsor summed it up perfectly when he said Rotary develops goodwill and friendship.
Those two qualities were certainly on show at the Murrurundi Golf Club on Saturday night when the local branch not only celebrated a milestone but installed its new committee for 2016-17.
With fellow Rotarians from Muswellbrook and Scone in attendance, as well as Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen and Upper Hunter Shire mayor Wayne Bedggood, Mr Windsor recalled his experiences in Rotary and his involvement in the organisation’s exchange program.
But, his main message was directed to the Murrurundi Rotary Club, commemorating its diamond anniversary.
“I’d like to congratulate you on 60 years,” Mr Windsor said.
“It’s a great achievement to have six decades under your belt.
“It shows how important the local club is in the community – and within the district.”
To back his claim, outgoing president Robin Stanford presented almost $1000, in total, to the Murrurundi and Blandford public schools, Murrurundi SES and the Upper Hunter Shire Council’s Young Endeavour program.
“Our Model Train Festival was a great success, despite a few setbacks,” she said.
“It enabled us to fulfil our obligations to help and support the community.
“But, being a very small club, we have decided to go back to the time when things were done a little differently.
“We’ll now hold our meetings at members’ homes, often with a barbecue lunch, or just a coffee, as we find this productive.
“My time as president has been both a challenging and rewarding one.
“There are some people I would like to give my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to – our small number of loyal members, who have backed our efforts, and our district family of Rotary, especially Janette Jackson and John Vandine, who are always ready to help.
“Upper Hunter Shire Council and business houses in Murrurundi have been generous in their support, too.
“Our club was thrilled to receive the Australia Day community group award.
“I wish the new executive the very best for the year ahead.”
While the Murrurundi Rotary Club hosted its maiden meeting in May 1956, the presentation of its first charter didn’t take place until a month later.
“Thankfully, Scone sponsored us into Rotary,” incoming president Colin Stanford said.
“One-hundred and sixty Rotarians converged on the Murrurundi RSL Club 60 years ago, with 13 clubs – including Quirindi, Werris Creek, Muswellbrook, Singleton, Cessnock and Scone – represented.
“We’re proud of our history – and where we are today.”
The 2016-17 office bearers are Colin Stanford (president), Robyn Stanford (secretary), Dave Allen (treasurer), Shandelle Terry-Randal (community service director), Siobhan Leonard (international service director) and Keith Cole (club service director).
