By Jessica Anstice
More than 60 members, partners and guests attended the annual Rotary Club of Pakenham changeover dinner at the Pakenham Golf Club on Tuesday 9 July.
On the night, it was announced Goran Galic will continue his role as president for another year and only minor changes were made to the board.
During his president’s speech, Mr Galic reflected on the year just passed.
“It is fair to say that a lot has happened in the past 12 months and the club has been extremely busy and active,” he said.
“One thing I’d like to acknowledge is that throughout the year there has been a real sense of fun and adventure.
“It really is heart-warming to see the impact we as individuals can make for others and how all our hard work, time, sweat, sometimes tears is all worth it and we can truly say we are making a difference.”
The new board that will help lead the club consists of president elect Grant Austen, treasurer Alan Chalmers, secretary Greg Peck, public image chairman Ken Rook, foundation chairman George Blenkhorn, youth and vocation chairwoman Josie Wilson and community chairman Ian Wake.
Pakenham Inner Wheel president Marcia Rook was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship for her outstanding service to the club and a second sapphire pin was received by club member Ian Wake for his long-term dedication to Rotary.
Throughout the year, the Rotary Club of Pakenham has welcomed an array of interesting guest speakers to their weekly meetings, listened to wonderful tales from Rotarians behind the badge, had visits to AVAN caravans, toured the new golf facilities and made many visits to the local Sikh temple.
The club’s goal to increase engagement with schools and local youth was an “outstanding success” this past year.
“The youth and vocational team played a major part in reengaging the youth in the area and supporting many youth programs,” Mr Galic added.
“These engagements and programs are crucial in the development of our young people and will help create a pathway for our future Rotarians.
“None of these things happen without the dedication, collaboration and enthusiasm of like-minded people who want to make a difference and we have an abundance of these people within this club.”
Mr Galic is “excited” to lead the Rotary Club of Pakenham into its 59th year.
“While a lot has been achieved this year, there is still much more in the pipeline that we can build on over the next 12 months including the Rotary Park toilet block, Le Pines Community Hub, Rotract Club and ongoing support for international programs including relocating playground equipment overseas,” he said.
“We have had a remarkable year and have laid the foundation for another huge year coming up.
“I believe we have an opportunity to shape our own destiny and create an environment that will allow us to continue all the great work we are currently doing while engaging new ways to spread the Rotary message.”
