Civil celebrant Pamela Noal has passed the reins of leadership to counselling psychologist Rennie Schmid at Lower Blue Mountains Rotary’s annual changeover dinner.
More than 80 Rotarians, partners and special guests enjoyed the spectacular setting in the Lakeside Restaurant at Penrith Lakes as the club celebrated one of its most successful years on record this July. The club was awarded best large club in Rotary District 9685; district 9685 Golden Quill recognition for best public relations program; and allocated more than $75,000 to support various local, national and international projects and charities.
Rotarian Kathy Powell was chairperson for the function and guests were entertained by a superb bracket of songs presented by the outstanding Blaxland High School choir.
Club mentor, 96-year-old past Governor Paul Henningham proposed an enlightening toast to Rotary International, with a fitting response from youngest member, 24-year-old Chris Mahoney, who told of his Rotary enjoyment and benefits.
Long serving, distinguished member Evan Stevens was honoured with Paul Harris Fellow recognition during the evening – as was outstanding citizen Rachel Wong, wife of Rotarian Steven Wong.
Outgoing president Pamela Noal praised the efforts of her board of directors – Drew Fitzpatrick, Rennie Schmid, David Clark, Grahame Bell, Irene Morrison, Sue Parnell, Stan Noal and Glen Anslow – in guiding the club’s more than 70 members to success in every area of activity.
New president Rennie Schmid thanked Mrs Noal and her team for their service and achievements, and pledged to build on their success in the year ahead by way of careful planning and development of the club committee system.
He then inducted the new board of directors – Pamela Noal, David Clark, Drew Fitzpatrick, Michelle Fisher, Stephen Parker, Stan Noal, David Kerrigan and Glen Anslow.