Annual Synopsis - 2010-2011
2010-2011
President - Stewart France
"Building Communities, Bridging Continents"
The year’s motto could not have been more apt. With enormous changes occurring in the world, Rotary continued to be at the humanitarian leading edge with Polio Eradication and Shelter Box. Mike Cahill’s unbelievable drive and energy with Shelter Box ensured impressive club participation and support across all districts.Fairfield Rotary’s drive and energy was very apparent with a host of positive activities: The opening of the shelter at Claudelands Playground, the sending of two students to Science Summer School, Polio donations, new member inductions, provision of Shelter Boxes, donations to the Canterbury Earthquake fund, Doug Haigh’s team’s visit to Fiji’s Taveuni to complete a school building, support to enable an Amped for Life programme at Fairfield College, the Fairfield Rotary Readers programme at Fairfield Primary School, dictionaries presented to Fairfield Primary School’s senior leavers, plus donations to ROMAC and Interplast. In addition, members worked tirelessly on Rotary Friendship Exchange.
At our meetings, highlight speakers included Otorohanga’s Mayor, Dale Williams with his innovative and successful youth employment programmes, Past District Governor Geoff Mathis on dairy and energy projects in Tanzania and Crystal Beavis’ speaking on the incidence of diabetes throughout the world.
A Club Visioning Programme helped establish some bold ideas for progress over the next five years.
The Book Fair involved virtually the whole club, becoming almost a tradition and a way of life. Once again record book numbers point to a most successful fair in 2011.
Area Governor, Roger Fitzgerald attended and supported our club with welcome advice and encouragement.
District Webmaster and Paul Harris Fellow, Gavin Petrie was honoured by District with a Sapphire Pin.
The year was a challenging one for some club members suffering injury and ill health. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with them.