Rotary in the Waimarino

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 18, 4 October 1983, Page 8

Rotary in the Waimarino

Recently the Rotary Club based in Raetihi had a visit from District Governor 994 at which plans were formulated to make the Club into one which is truely representative of both Ohakune and Raetihi. This follows the decision that the formation of the separate Club at Ohakune is an unlikely possibility. It will not however, stop the formation of a sister club at a later date should there be sufficient numbers. The first step in the promotion of Rotary throughout the Waimarino has been a change in name to the Rotary Club of Raetihi-Ohakune. In the past Rotary has drawn a small number of Ohakune members but now plans to increase this membership dramatically. Every 3rd meeting of the month is now held in Ohakune and as membership grows it is hoped that the meetings will be held alternately in each town. The service Club of Rotary draws its strengths from having its membership represented by a member in

each vocation. In this way much expertise is brought to bear and members find that they are involved in a much wider sphere of activity than their own vocation. Frospective members are invited to take up membership in Rotary. In the next several weeks prospective members will be invited by letter to an inaugural meeting to discuss what Rotary can mean to them and their district. Fellowship amongst Rotary members is an important part of a Club's activities and Rotarians wives, known as Rotariannes, can be involved with the Rotary Club if they so wish. The membership of the , Rotary Club is broken up into 3 committees. The Club Service Committee looks after the running of the Club and the fellowship amongst members. Vocational-International Committee is charged with looking after student education, student exchange, international exchanges etc. The Community Service Committee is charged with

looking after the community needs and takes a particular interest in the needs of the Senior Citizens of the district. Rotary undertakes community services mainly based on using the expertise of its membership. Rotarian's time is not impinged upon to any great degree although there are normally a number of voluntary working bees throughout the year. By meeting weekly, Rotarians get an opportunity of sharing fellowship, discussing their problems and successes and generally , having an opportunity to unwind from the rigours of the work week. Rotariannes too enjoy a night a week when they are relieved of the responsibility of a formal family meal. Rotary gives its members an opportunity to share fellowship, use its strengths for the benefit of the community and, in so doing, returns to the community benefits in the form assistance to various ganisations. Over the years the district has benefited from Rotary projects and cash grants to various projects in the area. . The main fund-raising event is a Country Fair held annually at Frasers Airstrip. This year the event is set down for November. The day features many events mostly involving attendees and is based around horse-racing events. Rotarians look forward to the day which is always a rewarding experience, in terms of fund raising and fellowship. It is h'oped that those approached will attend the meeting to hear of opportunities Rotary cr^^ offer them and their district. Rotarians find that Rotary offers them a diverion from the work day week and the regular Wednesday evening meeting is looked forward to with interest.