Rotary Club of Newlands welcomes John Stephenson as new president
From left are district governor, Pam Rawbone with president John Stephenson who is being inducted by past president Teresa Thomson.
Image: Supplied
The Rotary Club of Newlands marked the start of the new Rotary year with the induction of incoming president John Stephenson on Tuesday, July 8.
The ceremony, held at the Western Province Bowling Club in Rondebosch, also saw the club bid farewell to outgoing president Teresa Thomson.
The event was attended by Rotary District 9350 governor Pam Rawbone, assistant governor Ross Kelly, and representatives from the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), including CEO Michael Vonk.
In his first address as president, Mr Stephenson thanked members for their continued support and shared his vision for the year ahead. “As I take up the baton, it’s with deep respect for the strong foundation you’ve built and a genuine excitement for what lies ahead. Let’s strive to live out the Rotary values of Service Above Self in everything we do. Unite for Good,” he said.
During the event, NSRI CEO Michael Vonk presented a framed photograph to long-serving club member Richard Burnett, in recognition of his many years of organising the NSRI Wine Auction. The fundraiser has contributed to the purchase of rescue boats, training materials, sponsorships, and the construction of rescue stations along South Africa’s coastline.
The Rotary Club of Newlands meets every Monday at 6.15pm at the Western Province Cricket Club. Visitors are welcome. For more information, email alisonpalmhughes@gmail.com
President John Stephenson with lifelong member of Rotary Club of Newlands, Abe Soloman.
Image: Supplied
CEO of The NSRI, Mike Vonk, right, awards lifelong Rotary Club of Newlands member, Richard Burnett a striking collage showing the NSRI boat which is called Rotarian Burnett to thank him for his years of fundraising for the Rescue Crafts which save 1000’s of lives.
Image: Supplied