Bellarine North Rotary mark changeover of president

BELLARINE North Rotary Club has welcomed its new president Andrew Jeffrey and saluted its outgoing president Terry Baker at the groups 47th annual changeover dinner held recently.

Despite being forced to meet on zoom during the pandemic, Mr Baker and the club’s board are credited with recruiting six new people, taking its overall membership to 37, up from its lowest number of 12 in 2015.

Although considered a relative newcomer to the Bellarine North club having joined four years ago, Mr Jeffrey’s ties to Rotary International go back to 2000 when his father Athol was an active member of the Drysdale club.

Noting the groups achievements this year, member Caroline Rickard said the delivery of another 40 Australian children’s books to its local Maternal Child Health Centre, including Where is the Green Sheep and Diary of a Wombat, is a standout.

“Early reading to children develops lots of other skills that link their learning on many fronts,” Ms Rickard said.

“This is one of the many community services, projects and international involvement our members have participated.”

“We know we will be continuing this Club with the same fun and supporting of our community here and overseas… president Andrew, the Board and members are excited and focused on the Rotary year ahead.”

The club meets at Portarlington Golf Club on Monday nights and is encouraging those looking to give back to the community to join.