By ANEEKA SIMONIS
IT was a night of good food, good music and good company for some of Pakenham’s hardest working few as Rotarians celebrated their annual changeover service.
New board members, including president Lyn Bunce, Pakenham Rotary’s fourth female leader, were inducted to take the lead for the 2016-’17 year. Among them were two who were awarded for a year of selfless service.
The Paul Harris Fellowship award was given to Sam Biondo and Geoff Young at the special service on Tuesday 28 June for their devout contribution to community projects.
Mr Biondo was celebrated for his tireless contribution to the club’s White Elephant Sale, while Mr Young was acknowledged for always lending a hand on projects including the Pakenham Show.
“I just do what I can with pride,” Mr Biondo said.
Presidency was a commitment taken on with much sentiment by Lyn Bunce, following on from the 2015-’16 president Wal MacDonald.
Her family were there to watch her as she was inducted into the role.
Mr MacDonald gave Ms Bunce one piece of advice: “Wear the collar with pride.”
When reflecting on his time as president, Mr MacDonald said one event shone out at him as the clear highlight.
The late Charlie Huysken marked 50 years of continuous service in August last year.
The milestone was celebrated with “a little party”, according to Mr MacDonald who acknowledged his old mate’s passing in May.
He acknowledged many other highlights throughout the year including the Anzac Gunfire Breakfast and their participation in community events including Together We Can and Biggest Blokes Lunch.
Rotary Against Malaria’s Healthy Villages program received a $1100 donation to help sanitise a Solomon Island village during the presentation.