Rotary’s mass appeal

By Rebecca Fraser
AS ROTARY International celebrates 100 years of service in more than 31,000 communities around the world this year the Endeavour Hills branch has taken the time to reflect on their past achievements.
Formed in 1985, the club has participated in many local and worldwide initiatives with many members making lifelong friends.
Immediate past president of Endeavour Hills, Martin Pater, said some of the club’s biggest achievements had been taking part in international youth exchange programs, supporting local youth activities and providing assistance to the Casey and global community.
Mr Pater has been involved in Rotary for two decades and said there was nothing better to do in your spare time than contribute to the community.
“The best part about Rotary is being able to give something back to the community and making a contribution,” he said.
“I have also made many great friends along the way and have had a lot of fun, too.
“It is a great outlet from work and there is always something to be done in the community and overseas.”
Mr Pater said the club had also been active in raising funds through golf tournaments, dinner auctions and various events assisting the Red Cross, Royal Children’s Hospital, South East Palliative Care and the Salvation Army.
President Harry Hornstra said he was proud of the way the community had responded to Rotary’s International Shelter Box program of which Endeavour Hills is the Australasian administrator.
“This project, started by the Rotary Club in England, provides shelter, bedding and cooking utensils for 10 people and is dispatched out in a compact box to disaster and famineaffected areas across the world,” Mr Hornstra said.
“So far, Australians have funded 900 shelter boxes.”
Mr Pater said Rotary was also sending 800 boxes to hurricaneravaged New Orleans.
Casey mayor Neil Lucas said Rotary provided invaluable support to the local and international community.
“At a local level they have helped build a rotunda at Pioneers Park in Berwick and at an international level they have had a significant influence on bringing the disease polio almost under control.
“They have contributed to a huge range of programs and I could talk about the great work they have done for hours.
“It is great to see Rotary reaching this milestone,” he said.