Gunnedah West Rotary Club had its 55th changeover last Thursday with Marg Amos retaining her presidency for the 2025/26 year.
Club members and guests gathered at the Gunnedah Bowling Club for a meal and discussion of the past year’s achievements and onward aspirations.
This is Mrs Amos’ second consecutive year as president, stating it was an honour to be invited back into the position.
“After reading through the list of past presidents, I feel very humble to be sharing this title with those who have gone before me,” she said.
“I look forward to another year of meaningful and interesting projects, fun activities and great member camaraderie.”
She thanked the 2024/25 board members, acknowledging their efforts to see each project come to fruition.
Throughout the 12 months, members had prepared the Ag Quip site, acted as courtesy bus drivers, volunteered at the Gunnedah Public School Breakfast Club, commenced the 0-4 Book Program for Ooranga Outreach, supported public speaking, participated in the barbecue cooking for Australia Day, the Youth Expo, along with MND and Yallambee golf days. They also contributed to the Gunnedah Community scholarship Program and sponsored two classrooms at the School of St Jude in Tanzania.
A highlight was the 2025 Gunnedah West Rotary Deb Ball, which saw 21 debutantes and partners dancing at the town hall in March.
Mrs Amos also mentioned the club’s support in a Motor Neuron Disease Research Scholarship, commencing in 2026. The Gunnedah Times previously reported on the tree planting fundraising efforts in the May 22 edition.
Treasurer David Amos announced the club will have given away more than $50,000 during the financial year. This was more than double the previous year’s efforts.
Among special guests at the dinner were past district governor Bob Ryan and his wife Margaret from Armidale.
Exchange student Matheus Roca did the toast to Rotary International. The 17-year-old Brazilian has been in Gunnedah for the last year and will soon return home.
Mrs Amos described him as a “personable, fine young man”.
The immense 50-year commitments of Peter Worthington and Bill Brandy to the club were also acknowledged.
