Fun year ahead

By Jade Lawton
THE Rotary Club of Berwick is in for a big year.
Incoming president Sjaak Kusters will be at the helm of the club as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Mr Kusters, a voice professional from Narre Warren, was inducted at the Rotary Club’s 49th changeover dinner at Sage at Parkhill, Berwick on Thursday night.
He has taken over from outgoing president, John Rosenthal.
In his first presidential address, Mr Kusters laid out his plans for the eventful 12 months ahead.
“I intend to lead for the next 12 months with a generous injection of fun and fellowship,” he said. “Under my watch, the club will celebrate its 50th birthday. The winery visits will return. It is our intention to increase the number of Paul Harris Fellows, and we will also increase support for apprenticeships.
“The Australia Day festival will continue. We will re-introduce the corporate golf day, and business dinner.
“The deb ball will continue and we will attempt to stage an open deb ball for other students. But our most successful event is our monthly farmers market. What a great community event.”
Mr Kusters also said he was keen to foster more social functions.
“I intend to include some joint activities with the inner wheel club – there are a few good looking ladies in there,” he joked.
Mr Kusters said this years motto would be ‘service above self while having fun.’
During the evening, diners were entertained by Michael Cavanagh and Mr Kuster’s son, Eli.
The Rotary Club of Berwick board of directors for 2010-2011 are president, Sjaak Kusters; vice-presient, Jean Mawhwinney; secretary, Mike Hildred; treasurer, Bruce Shaw; administration, Garry Cooper; membership, Malcolm Kennedy; public relations, Mick Morland; foundation, Jean Mawhwinney; projects, Greg Cornelius; and fund raising, Murray Mortaruolo.