New Rotary year starts on a high

Narooma Rotary’s changeover at the Golf Club last Thursday marked the end of another challenging year.

Retiring President Ange Ulrichsen said it began with great uncertainty as communities grappled with the challenges of navigating through Covid-19 restrictions and trying to return to some semblance of normality while still keeping everyone safe.

Many regular Rotary programmes had to be cancelled, but Ms Ulrichsen said the Club was “thrilled to regain some ‘near normality’ with the resumption of monthly markets in September after a seven month’s absence”, holding the Duck Race and the traditional Youth night in January.

She credited members’ “will and enthusiasm”, several fun functions some with other Rotary clubs, the instigation of monthly Rotary Business Breakfasts and the drive of incoming President Andrew Lawson for contributing to the Club’s success despite the challenges. In recognition of his contributions during his short time in the Club, Ms Ulrichsen awarded him the Club’s Rotarian of the Year.

Narooma Rotary still provided over $25,000 in the 2020/2021 year to local and international causes.

New President Andrew Lawson said he is humbled by the honours given to him. He is optimistic about the year ahead which he said would be one of focus, fun, communication and community, so enhancing Rotary International’s theme for the year – ‘Serve to Change Lives’.

A major project would be the Narooma Rotary Prostate Cancer Support Group for individuals and families, drawing on the experience of the Rotary Club of Young.

Special guests included the District Governor’s representative Past District Governor Phil Armstrong and Area Governor Adam de Totth.

Above: Narooma Rotary Club’s 2021-2022 Board consists of Laurelle Pacey, Robyn Miller, Chris O’Brien, President Andrew Lawson, Past and Vice President Ange Ulrichsen, Secretary John Rungen and Lynn Hastings. The Club’s new treasurer Mike Young was away.

Above: Andrew Lawson was awarded Narooma Rotarian of the Year by outgoing President Ange Ulrichsen.

Above: In its final disbursements of the year, Narooma Rotary Club donated $4,000 to the eight local Rural Fire Service units. Potato Point Deputy Captain Rachel McInnes received their $500 donation on the night, as did Dalmeny and Narooma.