Club Handover Nick to George

HANDOVER

The meeting of the Bridge of Allan and Dunblane Rotary Club on Thursday saw the formal handover of Presidency by President Nick Rawlings to his successor, George Morrison.  Following this, John Kilby and Andrew Hilley took up their appointments as, respectively, President-Elect and President-Nominee. 

In welcoming his successor, President Nick reflected on a busy and successful year’s activity.  This success, he said, was a reflection of the willingness of members to give of their time to the various projects which had contributed to the local community and more widely.  For this, he thanked members, and for the support which he had been given during the year.

That, however, was not the only accolade for George Morrison. Before passing the Presidency to him, President Nick had the pleasure of presenting Paul Harris Fellowship Awards to him and to Jim Gardner.  The Paul Harris Fellowship, created in memory of the founder of Rotary, is a particularly auspicious recognition of service to Rotary.  George’s tireless work in support of Rotary programmes, and his care and oversight of Rotary equipment were particularly commended.  The recognition of Jim Gardner, President in 2001/2, reflected his enormous contribution to Rotary, most notably through the success of the Am-Am golf competition which, annually, raises some £14,000 for Strathcarron Hospice.  As reported elsewhere in the meeting, this year’s Am-Am has continued that success, attracting 55 teams of four to the competition.

Following the handover, President George was warmly welcomed by members.  He reflected on the contribution by members to the various good causes supported by Rotary.  His theme for the year would be Teamwork makes a dream work. This approach would be the means of the Club working to fulfill the President of Rotary International’s commitment to Rotary Making a Difference.  Suggested as one element of this is the proposal for a tree to be planted for each member of Rotary worldwide – some 1.2 million trees - as a means of supporting the steps to reduce global warming.  Alongside this commitment, and the many activities proposed for the year, he hoped members would continue to value and enjoy the fun and friendship that are important parts of Rotary membership.