Around 70 people attended the dinner with special guests district governor Pushpa Pushpalingam, assistant district governor Mark Williamson and Apex Club of Northam president Grant Scollay..

The guest speaker was Rachel Michael who talked about her exchange year in Germany backed by a slide presentation.

A major feature of the evening was the presentation of awards.

This year three people were honoured with Rotary International’s highest award, a Paul Harris Fellowship, named after Rotary’s founder.

Those to receive the award were Norm Fox, Greg Verlinden and Ann Gibbs.

Outgoing president John Rak presented his own Service above Self Awards.

These went to Peter McClintock, Velu Ramasamy, Norm Fox and Ruth Monk.

According to John, the club was revitalised and energetic.

“With the induction of five new members this year and having 12 members with five years’ or less service from our 25 members, the club has been injected with new blood and ideas, which I feel will hold it in good stead for the future,” he said.

Long-serving members were recognised.

Brian Webb and Brian Hannagan have been members for 20 years, Ian Gibbs, Bill Robertson, Peter Dempster and Steve Paxman 25 years, Ross Oxley , Peter Weatherly and Geoff Ruscoe 30 years and Bruce Smart 45 years.

The final segment of the evening was the induction of new president Richard Prunster and the induction of his board.

Richard will be supported by immediate past president and vice-president John Rak, president-elect Ian Gibbs, secretary Velu Ramasamy, treasurer Norm Fox and directors, club service Ian Gibbs, community Tony Mayor, membership Des Hughes, vocational/new generations Rod Price and international Rod Price.

In speaking to close the dinner president Richard praised immediate past president John’s year.

“He is a quiet person, but John deserves our thanks for his dedication and commitment.

“His year has re-energised the club and we must continue to align it with its future longevity.”