Past and Present Changeover
The theme ‘Past and Present’ for the Changeover Night gave Papanui Rotary a chance to learn about the rich history of their club and what past members had contributed. A good crowd attended. As well as partners there were special guests who had arrived to see Lois take up the reigns. One these was her son Nick who is a partner in a major law firm in Auckland. Others were her sister in law Kay and special friends Kevin and Noeline Wilson.
After dinner those who had been members of the club for more than 35 years rose to tell something of their experience. Under the able chairmanship of Tony Tizzard, these men all spoke of commitment and service and their talks will be worth re-reading again as they tell a great story of what this club has achieved. 9 of the 12 members of the ‘35’ club spoke. These included Alan Bond, Ewan Hilson, who is our longest serving member (50 years), Gordon Shields, Max Wright, Richard Hamilton, Ron Sedgley and Paul Wilson.
Three of the group could not be present:- Jim Hudson, Rob Nicoll and Charlie Barthrop, but their talks were read by others. It was my job to read Jim Hudson’s speech.
All the 35 Club were presented with a bottle of wine and their wives with a posie of orchids.
Then Ewan Hilson and his wife Dawne cut the special 35 Cake. This was a magnificent iced lemon madeira which was made by Lois.
While we enjoyed this we also took part in a 10 question quiz on the year 1982…. None us did very well. Few were able to recall the price of a bottle of milk then – 30 cents- or the population of the country – 3.4 million, or even the name of the famous author who died – Ngaio Marsh. But worst of all none us could remember who was leader of the Opposition – Bill Rowlings… They say that a week is a long time in politics but 35 years had buried some of those who attempted to lead us. Most of us remembered Muldoon – probably never to be forgotten.
Attendees had been asked to bring something old to the meeting and Janice and Ari were asked to judge these. There were some great items – everything from a Christening gown and elderly Bible to a man’s smoking cap and a loud tie worn by a former band member.
Two of our senior members – Paul Wilson and Dennis Robertson – became Honorary Members. Paul and Dennis I do hope you are there as often as you are able. We will miss your bright company.
Then President John Allen spoke before handing over the chain. He spoke of the challenges and the goals of his year and also of the achievements that had been made. His speech is on the web site for all to read. Click on this link here.
Lois after receiving the chain also spoke of her involvement in Rotary. Her special ‘Something Old’ was is something small but special for her. ‘Tonight I am wearing my husband Fraser's Rotary pin. It is not quite 35 years old, but almost. Just before he became sick suddenly in 2006 he had really encouraged me to join Rotary. He had been a member for many years, sliding into it from Jaycees when we lived in Methven. I was privileged to go with him on many occasions when he was guest speaker at various Rotary clubs in his role with Child Youth and Family. Tonight I wear his badge to honour him. I hope he would have been proud. He was an amazing encourager so I believe he would be pleased. This year is to honour Fraser and I hope I can do it well for him and for you all.’
Lois concluded ‘I'm also grateful for 2 lovely ladies who have agreed to be my PAs ( President Assistants or better known as the bridesmaids), Deryn and Philippa for being my special helpers this year. I'm also looking forward to working with Jenny as President Elect. Two clergy wives together will be fun!
It was a great night for all who attended.
Jenny Haworth