THE Gloucester Rotary Club is proudly celebrating a significant milestone this year – 75 years of service to the local community.
Since receiving its charter in 1950, the club has promoted the values of Rotary International, including service above self, fellowship, integrity, diversity, and leadership.
“Rotary is a community-binding organisation,” said Denver Webb, who was the Rotary President back in 1997.
“Gloucester Rotary was established to serve the community and promote international understanding and goodwill, which the club has successfully done for 75 years.”
Current President Brian Beesley emphasised that Gloucester Rotary is a service organisation.
“Service above self is the overarching motto we operate under.
We invest in people, leverage our Rotary vocational expertise, and make things happen.”
Over the years, Gloucester Rotary has supported the local community by raising funds for various projects.
“Events like Bush Poetry in the Saleyards and the Easter Duck Races, along with numerous BBQs, allow us to invest around $20,000 annually back into our local community and international humanitarian work,” Mr Beesley told News Of The Area.
For 25 years, Gloucester Rotary established and funded a motivational program for Year 10 students at Gloucester High School called RYSAP (Rotary Youth Self Achievement Program).
More than 600 students have participated in this program.
“A highlight this year was the visit from the Yipirinya Indigenous Boys from Alice Springs to Gloucester.”
Gloucester Rotary also maintains a strong relationship with Rotary’s Youth Exchange program, having hosted over 30 foreign exchange students and sponsored Gloucester youth to travel abroad.
“The Rotary Exchange Program is a crucial aspect of Rotary; it helps to broaden international understanding,” said Mr Webb.
The club has adapted to the times by being flexible in its meeting structure, being inclusive of women, and encouraging younger generations.
Mr Beesley said 15 percent of its members are aged under 30, “which bodes well for the Club’s future.”
To commemorate its 75th anniversary, the Gloucester Rotary will hold a dinner on 17 May at the Gloucester Golf Club, bringing together Rotarians past and present.
By Wendy BUSWELL
