Changes at the top for Rotary

Laurie Barber, Past District Governor and District Governor Representative and his wife Glenda, travelled from Port Macquarie to attend the dinner. Laurie is a past member of the Inverell East Club.

Outgoing president, Mark Jeffries, read out a list of the activities that the club had been involved in during the year and made special mention of the Sapphire City Fun Run, Inverell’s Got Talent and the District Conference.

e also recognised Tim Newberry and his contribution to the club, presenting him with a gift from club members.

Mark also read out the list of disbursements totalling $25,324. Over $3500 went to Rotary projects involving local students, $1000 each to Australian Rotary Health, Rotary Foundation and a Shelter Box while the remainder has been presented to local organisations or committed to the river lookout project.

Two members, Ron Randall and Jack Ellis, were then recognised for their contribution to the club and community over a number of years when they were presented with Paul Harris Fellowship.

Mr Barber, on behalf of the district, then presented Tim Newberry with a Paul Harris Fellowship Sapphire Pin for his service to Rotary District 9650.

Incoming president Gary Russell was then inducted.

He spoke about how he was relishing the term ahead, working with and involving the whole membership.

He introduced his new leadership group.

The new board of directors is made up of Gary, past president Mark Jeffries, president elect and club service director Alistair Williams, treasurer Barry Mason, secretary Dick Hudson, community service director Jack Ellis, vocational service director Col Flood, new generations director Karen Roberts, membership director Harry Fay and international service director Paul Ray.