Honour Roll
Rotary Melbourne
Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay
Rotary Clubs of Brimbank & Altona City
Rotary Club of Strathalbyn
Rotary Club of Rochester
Rotary Club of Wyndham
Rotary Club of Clare
Rotary Club of Waverly, Bendigo-Strathdale & Bendigo
Rotary Club of Bendigo
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay
Rotary Club of Maryborough and West Lakes
Rotary Club of Campbelltown
Rotary Club of Flinders Park & West Torrens
Rotary Clubs of Canberra South, Thebarton & Adelaide
Rotary Club of Regency Park
Rotary Club of Lightsview
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Rotary Melbourne
Rotary Club of Bendigo
Rotary Club of Hawthorn
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Rotary Club of Adelaide Light
Rotary Club of Altona
Rotary Club of Edwardstown
Rotary Club of Altona
Rotary Club of Prospect
Rotary Clubs of Salisbury, Gawler, and Goolwa
Rotary Club of Barossa Valley
Rotary Club of Gawler
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Rotary Club of Broken Hill
Rotary Clubs of Port Pirie and St Peters
Rotary Club of Salisbury
Rotary Club of Bendigo
Rotary Club of Barossa Valley
Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise, Modbury &Modbury Golden Grove
Rotary Clubs of Latrobe, Kew on Yarra & Canterbury
Rotary Club of Adelaide
Max Barr
Max was a good friend to members of Rotary Melbourne.
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Intelligent and kind, Max served the elderly with his professional expertise in Planning for which he was named a Paul Harris Fellow.
A constant Rotary lunch companion for more than 40 years, he will be very missed.
Dr Alistair Brown
Born in East Kilbride, Scotland
30 October 1935 ~ 7 October 2024
The Brown family came from Scotland to Australia in the 1960’s, and after time in the eastern states, travelled to South Australia where Alistair established a veterinary practice in Prospect, and later in Broadview.
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Inducted into the Rotary Club of Prospect on June 27, 1973, Alistair served the Club as President in 1980/81 and chaired a special meeting on November 29,1980, for the Charter of the Rotary Club of Regency Park.
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He was a Director of the Club on 5 separate occasions covering each of the Avenues of Service, as well as Sergeant and Club Attendance Officer.
Alistair was also involved in a wide variety of projects and activities including Student Exchange and Fireside Chats and was a frequent attendee at District Conferences.
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A Paul Harris Fellow, and an active member of the Club for the next 20 years, Alistair became the fifth Rotarian from the Prospect Club to reach 50 years of active membership on June 28, 2023.
Passionate about his retirement farm in Houghton, animals, and, not surprisingly, haggis and Scottish dancing, Alistair’s drive and enthusiasm are missed.
John Bennett
Rotary Club of Campbelltown
29 April 1936 ~ 20 September 2024
Aged 90 years
John joined Rotary in November 1987 and was an active & loved member for some 37 years.
He was secretary in 1994-1995 under President Geoff Thorpe.
He served on many committees, Directorships & club roles but the International Committee was his passion. He served on this committee for 19 years.
He was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow with a Sapphire Pin, on 28 June 2024.
Don Cant
Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay and Marion
24 August 1930 ~ 16 September 2024
I had know Don Cant for several years through business, before I joined the Rotary Club of Marion. Don was the most genuine, modest and quietly achieving person I have known. Don has been in Rotary since 1962 - 62 years!
Don has always been interested in cars - speedway, racing trials - he did them all - Real Petrol Head. He came 4th in handicap in Australian Grand Prix in Nuriootpa at the beginning of 1950, he raced as Fisherman's Bend, Bathurst, Woodside, Port Wakefield and Mallala. A life member of the Sporting Car Club of SA and in 1950 was competition Secretary - organising numerous trials etc while still competing himself, helped organise Australian Grand Prix at Port Wakefield (won by Jack Brabham) and was involved in the establishment of the Mallala racing circuit. He also owned a Tiger Moth which was kept a Parafield Airport. Melanie his daughter is also a pilot. How about all that for a quiet achiever!
Don has been fortunate in that he had a very successful Optometry business as well as forming and viticulture businesses. He used the resources gained over his working life to fund many projects, especially through Rotary, for people in need. He has contributed much in both cash and kind to a particular project at Kompian Hospital in PNG. In addition he devoted his own time by visiting Kompian on three separate occasions as part of a Rotary projects team to help bring the hospital up to Australian standards, improve the medical services and to assist with building projects at the hospital. This is now a dedicated teaching hospital, previously run by Dr David Mills for the University of Adelaide.
Don developed a special relationship with The Rotary Foundation and has made generous donations to its' work through the Australian Rotary Foundation Trust. He was a Rotary Foundation Major Donor, Double Diamond.
At club level he was always willing to volunteer for projects, whether they be local or international. He had this keen interest in helping his fellow man. He not only shared his generosity of time, talents and money through the three Rotary clubs he was a member of, but also through other local organisations such as the Balmoral Bush Nurse Centre in Western Victoria where his pastoral sheep property was situated. He was the major supported of this centre over many years and has also made regular donations to other charitable groups in Victoria and South Australia
He was charter president of the Rotary club of Marion.
Rest in peace Don, and thanks for your many contributions to Rotary, and to mankind. PDG Roy Armstrong. President Kerry, Board and members and partners of Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay
Peter Collins
Rotary Club of Flinders Park & West Torrens
Peter first joined the Rotary Club of Flinders Park over 40 years ago and has been a Rotarian ever since. He clearly enjoyed it from the start as he actively recruited friends to join him in his Rotary journey and remained an active member for the whole time.
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On the fellowship side, we have many fond memories of sharing meals with him at club meetings with his lively discussions and love of a good meal.
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From the beginning, Peter really enjoyed the Rotary fellowship over dinner at Marinelli’s on the Port Road. He especially appreciated the bread rolls they served with their meals which he would use to soak up any left-over juices. Later when Marinelli’s closed, the club met at the Halfway Hotel and later at the Woodville-West Torrens Bar and Grill, both on the Port Road - and Peter was still able to enjoy his food.
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Flinders Park Rotary ran various catering projects including many at the Port Dock National Railway Museum. Peter was the chip cooker extraordinaire, always taking the opportunity to test the quality of his product. We can still remember his disappointment when we changed the menu at the National Railway Museum to just items cooked on the barbeque plate. Oh how he missed his chips and his jam filled donuts.
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Flinders Park was on the roster for Meals on Wheels and Peter was a driver for their deliveries.
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Peter was President two times at Flinders Park and Treasurer there for several years.
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His influence and commitment extended past the club level as he was an Assistant to Rotary District Governors in South Australia for three years. His responsibilities included organising a number of intercity meetings and dinners.
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When Flinders Park passed in its charter in 2011, Peter wanted to remain in Rotary so he joined the West Torrens Rotary Club along with 4 others from Flinders Park.
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Peter has made a big contribution to West Torrens Rotary, as an active volunteer in club events, as an administrator and as an occasional guest speaker. He has shared his experiences as an electoral returning officer in Council, State and Federal elections as well as interesting perspectives on statistics. His keen love of History and statistics were often on show and we also saw his skills as an educator when he patiently trained a number of our members to assist in polling booths.
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During his time with Rotary, Peter was twice awarded a Paul Harris fellowship in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Rotary.
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Even though he was unable to drive in the last few years he continued to be actively involved. Rotary was always a priority for Peter. He, along with Helen, still helped with preparing the bread for our larger catering projects and collecting the cash at our Bunnings Barbeque fundraisers.
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He also remained very active in club administration and in the last 2 years was both the Vice President and the club treasurer.
We have many fond memories of Peter and are grateful to have shared in some of his life experiences. Apart from his willingness to clean up any spare chips or bread left over from a club meal, we will always remember his humour, his intellect, his integrity and his willingness to lend a hand in support of his fellow Rotarians.
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Thank you, Peter, for sharing some of your life with us and helping us to become better people by following your example.
Jim Davis
Rotary Clubs of Salisbury, Gawler, and Goolwa
Jim joined the Rotary Club of Salsbury in September 1985, the Rotary Club of Gawler in November 1995 and the Rotary Club of Goolwa in October 2000.
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Jim served as President of the Rotary Club of Goolwa in 2002/03.
Jim was passionate about the Cranio Facial programs.
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He enjoyed being involved in all Rotary projects and added a sense of humour to most occasions and events.
Jim Davis
Rotary Clubs of Salisbury, Gawler, and Goolwa
Jim joined the Rotary Club of Salsbury in September 1985, the Rotary Club of Gawler in November 1995 and the Rotary Club of Goolwa in October 2000.
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Jim served as President of the Rotary Club of Goolwa in 2002/03.
Jim was passionate about the Cranio Facial programs.
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He enjoyed being involved in all Rotary projects and added a sense of humour to most occasions and events.
Jim Davis
Rotary Clubs of Salisbury, Gawler, and Goolwa
Jim joined the Rotary Club of Salsbury in September 1985, the Rotary Club of Gawler in November 1995 and the Rotary Club of Goolwa in October 2000.
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Jim served as President of the Rotary Club of Goolwa in 2002/03.
Jim was passionate about the Cranio Facial programs.
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He enjoyed being involved in all Rotary projects and added a sense of humour to most occasions and events.
Shalita 'Mandy' Dayal
Mandy has always had a sense of community spirit and a willingness to be involved in activities and making a difference in the community through rotary in particular the edict of service above self.
She joined the Brimbank Rotary Club on the 25th of August 2012 making it 12 years of service to Rotary in total.
She came to the Altona City Rotary in 2018 and after attending a few meetings, she was sponsored by club member Jan Douglas to join the club. She officially was inducted into the club on the 1st of October, 2018.
Shortly after joining she gave the club a presentation about her life in South Africa. These talks are called “Behind the Badge” and we certainly got to know about Mandy’s life journey .
She told us an inspirational story about growing up in South Africa as a "non-white," in the days of Apartheid, and her journey to reach Australia.
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Was born and raised in a fruit orchard, segregated and told where to live;
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She had a Dutch friend, but they couldn't sit together to eat;
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How she joined Jaycees, and went to a world convention after navigating family concerns;
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The turmoil in South Africa after Nelson Mandela took over in 1994;
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Why she decided to bring up her children outside South Africa, and ended up in New Zealand as a merit-based migrant (not a refugee);
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Her stories about the huge cultural shock and the challenges of making a start in New Zealand were a little uncomfortable for one Kiwi;
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How her family eventually came to Australia by way of a Company transfer in 2004
Her story was quite inspirational and showed determination and resilience in the face of political unrest and willingness to make positive changes. Mandy certainly did in her Rotary service show all those qualities and a willingness to help those in the community as well as make meaningful community connections.
Some of the activities that Mandy undertook with the Altona City Rotary Club were
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Attendance at club meetings, Christmas functions and participation and fellowship.
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Helping out at numerous Bunnings Sausage Sizzles of which moneys raised go to community projects.
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Involvement as the time keeper for a project we call Wynspeak. Wynspeak is a competition amongst local school students where they get the opportunity to prepare a five minute speech on a prepared topic
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Supporting International Women’s Day
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Assisting in a joint community project with Lions Club. A skin check van at Bunnings taking appointments and ushering people into the mobile checking facility
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Helping with raffles and other tasks at our major fundraiser Very Special Kids Charity Golf Day
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Packing of care packs and bags for local Aged Care providers
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Attending and contributing to a number of Rotary District events outside our club further showing her strong interest and support of Rotary as a community organization.
This to just name a few. I also understand that she was involved with the Salvation Army services as well.
Jim Davis
Rotary Clubs of Salisbury, Gawler, and Goolwa
Jim joined the Rotary Club of Salsbury in September 1985, the Rotary Club of Gawler in November 1995 and the Rotary Club of Goolwa in October 2000.
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Jim served as President of the Rotary Club of Goolwa in 2002/03.
Jim was passionate about the Cranio Facial programs.
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He enjoyed being involved in all Rotary projects and added a sense of humour to most occasions and events.
Jim Davis
Rotary Clubs of Salisbury, Gawler, and Goolwa
Jim joined the Rotary Club of Salsbury in September 1985, the Rotary Club of Gawler in November 1995 and the Rotary Club of Goolwa in October 2000.
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Jim served as President of the Rotary Club of Goolwa in 2002/03.
Jim was passionate about the Cranio Facial programs.
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He enjoyed being involved in all Rotary projects and added a sense of humour to most occasions and events.
Brian Esselbach
Rotary Clubs of Canberra South, Thebarton and Adelaide
Brian went to school at Kings College (where he was deputy head prefect ) and to the University of Adelaide where he was awarded the degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical).
After a short stint at Ready Mix Concrete where Brian went to Coca-Cola Bottlers Adelaide as Project Engineer, and later was responsible for the planning and construction of a complete bottling plant in Canberra. He was appointed to positions of Production Manager and Plant Manager of the Adelaide plant and was later appointed General Manager of the Canberra operation. He was then called back to Adelaide as General Manager of that operation which he ran for some ten years.
Following the takeover of Coca-Cola Bottlers Adelaide, Brian was made Technical Manager for Australia, New Zealand , Papua New Guinea and Fiji, but returned to Adelaide when his wife developed secondary breast cancer and commenced a number of part time roles in smaller companies until his retirement in 1996.
He was also a member of the board of the Memorial Hospital before it was amalgamated with a larger hospital group and has been prepared to serve on boards and committees as part of his service to the community.
Brian first joined Rotary in 1979 as a Member of Canberra South. On his return to Adelaide he joined the Rotary Club of Thebarton, was President of that club in 1985/86 and was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship. Following his service with Thebarton, Brian joined the Rotary Club of Adelaide in 2011.
During his Rotary life Brian served on many committees and chaired a number of them. As well, he was fortunate to attend the World Conference in Chicago to celebrate 100 years of Rotary and also attended conferences in Brisbane and Sydney.
Following his wife's death in 1999, Brian reconnected with Libby, sister of David and Rob Motteram, who had been widowed some years before, and they were married in 2000. He has two children, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Brian and Libby had a holiday house at Port Willunga and they have an extensive garden which consumed much of his weekends. The Esselbachs loved travelling and made many overseas trips during their sixteen years of marriage.
Brian played pennant bowls for Hawthorn, was President of that club for a number of years and was a Life Member. He played golf at Kooyonga and is a member of a group which played monthly at different courses around Adelaide.
Don Farley
Rotary Club of Barossa Valley
29 September 1933 ~ 1 May 2024
Devoted husband to Claire and much loved and loving father, father in law and grandfather.
Don was a Pharmacist, snow skier, cricketer, lover of books, travel, photography, music and art.
He was a well-respected and loved member of the community and church and a valued member of the Rotary Club of Barossa Valley from June 1987.
Don served as a trustee of the Rotary Club of Barossa Valley Charitable Foundation which provides scholarships to provide financial assistance to undergraduate university students.
He was chair of the Great Revival Shop management committee for 15 years and over saw a lot of positive changes including doubling the floor space at no additional rent.
Don was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow in May 2005
Keiran Fitzgerald
Rotary Club of Strathalbyn
Keiran was a past President of Rotary Strathablyn.
He was active in many projects including the Road Watch team which for many years cleaned up the Strathalbyn-Belvidere road.
Keiran was best known as a
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Raconteur
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Supreme farm mechanic
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wrangler of swamp boats
Don Forster
Rotary Club of Regency Park
Don was a Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Regency Park who joined on the 28th of October 1980, and a long-time serving Treasurer.
Don never wanted to be President, happy to serve as Treasurer fostering responsible spending of club funds. He was a faithful attendee of club meeting, travelling home to Warradale after.
Don was a keen cricket, tennis and squash player and keen supporter of Glenelg F/C and the Crows. He encouraged his family in sport as well as his Grand Children. A man with strong family qualities and values.
He passed away on the 13th of September 2024.
Tony Fotheringham
Rotary Club of Gawler
Tony formally became a member of the Rotary Club of Gawler in 2010, however, had been heavily involved for many years prior.
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He was an honorary member of our club, having dedicated much of his time towards volunteering with our various projects and functions.
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Tony always offered his truck and transport equipment to assist in the Village Fair and Magic of Music events and became an integral part of the club very quickly.
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His support for our club saw him named as a Paul Harris Fellow in December of 2006 with that award presented to him in recognition of his contributions to our club and the community at large. These awards are not presented lightly and is a clear example of the value and impact Tony had to his community and the people around him.
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Tony retired from active membership with our club in June 2020, however, he was awarded honorary membership for many years thereafter. Irrespective of the status of his membership, Tony’s memory and impact in our club never waivered .
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Tony was always the first to put his hand up to help with volunteer events and to offer his tools, labor and equipment to help. Not only would he help in setting up events, but he would be one of the last to leave after having first helped clean up. He was a major supporter of our Tractor Pull events and even entered his own tractor at the vintage tractor pull at the Farm Fair. Tony was enthusiastic selling hot dogs at the Village Fair, yelling “Hot Dogs, come and get your Hot Dogs” at the top of his lungs.
Tony did all of this without seeking accolade or formal recognition for his contribution to the community and the people in it.
And it is because of Tony’s devotion and selflessness which resulted in him being remembered as nothing less than a true example of how people should live and treat those around them.
Tony was a true gentleman and will be remembered by our club and its members as that.
Bryan Griffiths
Rotary Club of Rochester
Bryan was a very passionate Rotarian, his motto was, “There is no I in Rotary”, and he enjoyed being involved in all things Rotary.
He was very well known throughout District 9800 and enjoyed his friendships and all social occasions.
He supported Foundation and a number of other causes especially End Polio and attended as many events around the district as he could to support other clubs.
He enjoyed attending some RI conventions and the overseas connections made there.
Bryan was President of the Rotary Club of Rochester three times.
Anish Grover
Rotary Club of Lightsview
31 January, 1977 ~ August 23, 2024
Age 47
Charter Member – Rotary Club of Lightsview
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Anish was known for his kindness, compassion and unwavering love for his family. The embodiment of service above self, he tirelessly dedicated his time to helping those most in need in our community.
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He was instrumental in the founding of our club as a charter member, and served on our board, taking on the roles of Public Image followed by Projects and Fundraising. Unfortunately, he died only 18 months after Charter.
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He graciously offered his home for event preparation and meetings and we shared many late-night laughs, snacks, fun and fellowship.
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He radiated positive energy and always had a smile to share or a cheeky joke to make.
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To Anish his greatest source of pride was his family Rohini, Riya and Arsh.
Richard Harrington
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Richard was an Honorary member of the Mount Barker club from 2019-2024.
He joined the club in 1997 and served as President in 2014/15.
Richard served the community as a Funeral Director and was former proprietor of Harrington Funerals.
Richard held many club leadership roles including Community Service Chair 1998-1999, Club Administration Chair 1999-1980, and Club Service Chair 2014-15.
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Richard purchased the first donut mixer and robot donut cooker for the donut van which has provided funds to support to Operation Flinders over a long period of time.
Phil Hartcher
Wyndham Rotary
Phil joined Wyndham Rotary in 2017 bringing skills acquired in his twenty-five years in the RAAF and private enterprise.
His dedication to community service was outstanding and demonstrated through providing food to families in need, supporting schools, and driving families to receive medical attention when needed.
He lived by the “motto if we see a need we do something about it”. He will be remembered by his willingness to help and positive attitude.
He was recognised with a Paul Harris Fellowship in 2021 and 2023.
He was a proud Rotarian.
Rob Heath
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Rob joined the club on 23rd May 2005. He had just retired from being a very active Wesfarmers agent and like many of us on retirement from paid work he was full of enthusiasm for his new role as a Rotarian. He was determined to be involved in as many projects as possible and his brash, positive attitude was a great benefit to us.
He threw himself into projects and was not afraid to make decisions and take charge, he never took a back seat. His brashness moderated after a while but he continued to be one our most active members.
There were not many projects that he was not involved in including Operation Flinders where he was a frequent member of our working parties at Yankannina.
He was knowledgeable and had skills to match. Rob was a mainstay of the club and we enjoyed being involved with him.
A dedicated Rotarian who is sorely missed.
Ken Holden
Rotary Club of Broken Hill
Ken joined Rotary 1st May 1994. Ken was a director on the board, for the years 95/96, 03/04, 05/06 and was sergeant in 04/05 year.
He was awarded a Paul Harris in 2009, for his service to Rotary which included many catering events, where Rotary members assisted in the serving and kitchen work, and Rotary benefited from a donation. We raised many dollars via this method.
The Pink Ball was one of these events, and Ken had arranged for all the Rotary members to where pink tops.
Ken also raised money for Rotary with car rallies, where he managed to obtain donations from artists in town, such as miners hats where at auction the hat raised $3,500, aeroplane prop blades and anything else that Ken could get his hands on.
Carol Holden was also awarded a Paul Harris in 2015 for her wonderful efforts and supporting Ken. Ken and Carol hosted many a Rotary Club meeting night at their home with our partners.
In June 2023, Ken was made an Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Broken Hill
Peter Jackson
Rotary Club of Clare
Peter was a member of the Rotary club of Clare from1971 to 2013 and after that he became an Honorary member of the club.
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He served as President 1979/80 and was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow in 1998.
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Peter loved the formality of the club and acted as moneyman/accountant (aka Treasurer!) over many years until retiring from the position in 2002.
David Jones
Rotary Melbourne
David was a distinguished honorary member and friend of Rotary Melbourne. He was a past President and Paul Harris Fellow. He joined the club in April 1971.
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He was a driving force in the club with 53 years of service. David improved the lives of countless disadvantaged and sick with his service to the community and philanthropy.
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In 1993, when Rotary Melbourne adopted Very Special Kids David championed the cause for ongoing funding, and within a short time secured one million dollars annually for five years from Tattersalls to support Very Special Kids' operating costs. Beyond Very Special Kids, David played a key role in numerous other Club initiatives including the establishment of the Rotary Bone Marrow Institute and organising the Club’s 75th Birthday celebrations, which raised $100,000 for polio eradication.
Brian Kretschmer
Rotary Clubs of Port Pirie and St Peters
Past President Brian will be remembered fondly and with respect for his leadership, knowledge and passion for service to his community in St Peters, Farina and Formally Port Pirie.
A valued mentor to members, with a passion for developing the leaders of tomorrow through Rotary youth projects & programs.
Rotary Club Port Pirie. ??? to 2017
Rotary Club St Peters 2017-2024
President. 2018-19
Area Governor - Group 3 D9520
Ken Longford
Rotary Club of Bendigo
23 February 1945 ~ 19 July 2024
Ken was a dedicated Rotarian and a member of three Rotary Clubs – Waverley, Bendigo-Strathdale, and Bendigo, serving as President of both Waverley and Bendigo-Strathdale.
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His deep commitment to Rotary was recognised with a Paul Harris Fellow in 2014.
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A generous supporter of the Rotary Foundation, he was further honoured with a Paul Harris Fellow with 8 Rubies in 2018.
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Despite ongoing health challenges, Ken remained devoted to Rotary until his passing in July 2024.
Rodney 'Rod' McDonald
Rotary Club of Bendigo
1 February 1941 ~ 9 January 2025
Rod McDonald, a quietly spoken and deeply respectful leader, brought a strong commitment to service and Rotary’s ideals since joining the Rotary Club of Bendigo on 17 April 2007.
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As Club President in 2014–2015, he led with humility and purpose, blending wisdom with a well-timed sense of humour.
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Under his leadership, the Club undertook meaningful international projects in Nepal and Samoa and raised vital funds for cleft palate surgeries through the Operation Cleft Golf Day.
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Always a gentleman, Rod’s calm, capable presence left a lasting impression on the Club and the wider community.
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In recognition of his outstanding service, he was honoured with a Paul Harris Fellow in 2020.
Roger Mueller
Rotary Club of Salisbury
11 May 1948 ~ 22 September 2024
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Roger joined the Rotary Club of Salisbury (SA) on the 18th of January 2016, giving him eight years of service to our Rotary community.
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A successful real estate agent and a true people person, his friends would describe him as reliable, available, helpful, and caring. He also made many bad jokes that brought smiles to those around him.
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Roger enjoyed the fellowship and guest speakers that were part of our dinner meetings. Roger built strong relationships with everyone, always wanting to chat, share a story or joke, and see how you were doing.
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Roger could often be seen at Rotary’s AllSorts Op Shop on Thursdays, with his wife, Ann. He supported the pick-ups regularly.
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After moving into his retirement village, he became the AllSorts Promoter for his retirement village, helping facilitate donations of quality goods to the shop. If not at AllSorts, he could also be seen helping at a BBQ.
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We thank Roger for his service and fellowship to our Club. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Ann, and their family. He is dearly missed.
Colin Nankervis
Rotary Club of Bendigo
15 April 1945 ~ 15 December 2024
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Colin Nankervis was inducted into the Rotary Club of Bendigo in June 1977 and served as Club President in 1998–1999.
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His strong work ethic was widely admired, but it was his unwavering commitment to ‘getting things done’ that became the hallmark of his Rotary service.
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As the first Chair of the Combined Rotary Clubs Committee for the Bendigo Swap Meet, Colin successfully managed to organise the entire event with just 6 to 8 weeks’ notice, a testament to his exceptional leadership and organisational skills.
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His service to Rotary Club of Bendigo, community at large and commitment to the ideals of Rotary, saw him recognised with a Paul Harris Fellow in 2002.
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He was a key member of the Carols by Candlelight Committee for 20 years, chairing it for 17 of those.
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In 2017, his remarkable 40 years of service to the Club, including his leadership on the Carols Committee, was further honoured with a Paul Harris Fellow with Sapphire.
Jim O'Beirne
Rotary Club of Hawthorn
Jim O’Beirne joined Rotary Hawthorn in 1991, remaining a member until his passing on 1 August 2024.
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Jim was a highly respected member who leveraged his vocation in Function Management to serve the club over the years.
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He was admired by all and universally described as a true gentleman.
Margaret Paulsen
Rotary Club of Bendigo
20 May 1940 ~ 10 June 2024
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Margaret joined the Rotary Club of Bendigo on 1 April 2008.
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While actively involved in many Club projects, she was especially passionate about the Youth Exchange Program. She contributed significantly alongside her husband Ray at both Club and District levels to this program.
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In recognition of her dedication, she was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow by the Club in 2007.
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Margaret was also honoured with a Paul Harris Fellow with Sapphire at the District level in 2020.
Minyon Pfieffer
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Minyon Pfeiffer, honorary member of Mount Barker Rotary Club.
Minyon was the wife of Gordon Pfeiffer a long serving stalwart of the club.
Minyon matched Gordon’s dedication to Rotary and was very prominent and active in club activities.
After Gordon passed she continued to be involved in club and community matters and fully merited the title of Honorary member.
John Pfitzner
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
John was an Honorary member of the club and served as club President 1995/96.
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John was as Paul Harris Fellow and Life member of Rotary International Service FAIM (Fourth Avenue In Motion).
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John supported construction of the club donut van which is a fixture at the Royal Adelaide Show and is the major annual fundraiser for the club.
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John was also involved in the Mount Barker Football club as a player and long-time sponsor.
Max Ramus
Rotary Club of Barossa Valley
27 May 1936 ~ 26 October 2024
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Max was a valued member of the Rotary Club of Barossa Valley since July 1975 achieving over 45 years of service to the community.
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He was President of Rotary Club of Barossa Valley 1984/1985, during which the Rotary Club of Barossa District was chartered. Max served on many club committees including the International Service committee in 2023.
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Max was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow in March 1995.
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Max was a builder by profession and a motor vehicle, motor cycle and boating enthusiast, CFS volunteer, traveller, guitarist and singer.
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Dearly loved and loving husband to Laurel and loved and caring father and grandfather.
Ian Rose
Rotary Club of Mount Barker
Ian joined the Rotary Club of Mount Barker in 1994 and served in almost every leadership position. He was President in 2003/04 and again in 2013/14. He was President-elect for 2024/25.
Rotary recognised his character and achievements by awarding him five Paul Harris Fellows.
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Ian was a man of great humility who did not seek attention, yet nearly four hundred people attended his funeral in Mount Barker. Many others from around the state, the nation and the world watched the service on a livestream. Community leaders and politicians, as well as neighbours and individuals he touched through his church and community involvement, came to honour his life and show love and support to his family.
David Rowe
Rotary Club of Adelaide Light
25 October 1928 ~ 16 October 2024
Nine days short of 96 years
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David Rowe was one of three RC of Adelaide members who started the Provisional Club of Adelaide Light in 1985, and helped nurture the Club’s development and Chartering on 12 June 1986.
That same year, David was a District Governor’s Special Representative to DG Max Smith.
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David was a valued and much respected member and gave many years of service to Adelaide Light even into his early 90s.
David was a gentleman and humanitarian, had an irrepressible sense of humour and smile, and he endeared himself to everyone. Sports such as cricket and golf were his passion.
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David leaves behind his much adored wife Betty, son Mike and his partner Leonie, daughter Jill, five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
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Vale, David.
Peter Rundle
Rotary Clubs of Darwin Sunrise, Modbury & Modbury Golden Grove
Peter was a charter member of the Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise 1989. He joined the Rotary Club of Golden Grove in 1992 which merged with Modbury in 2018 to become the Rotary Club of Modbury Golden Grove.
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Peter frequently served on the Board and was President 1996-1997, 2005-2006 and 2011-2012 and a Paul Harris Fellowship was bestowed on him in 2008.
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Peter’s background was in banking and finance, and it was not surprising that we lost count of the number of times he was treasurer of the Club right up until he passed in November 2024.
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Peter was always prepared to volunteer with club projects and barbecues until more recent mobility challenges. From this time on Peter worked behind the scenes to keep the Club in great financial health with his tight budgets and many would say ...conservative spending!
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His Service above self is sadly missed by all the members of the Club.
Leslie (Les) Schultz
Rotary Melbourne
Les was a dedicated loyal servant to the community.
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A 52-year member and elevated to Honorary Member, Les led with warmth and friendship for the welfare of the young and disadvantaged.
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A life well lived and served.
Denis & Gewn Shanahan
Rotary Club of Altona
Although Denis Shanahan never took up office in Rotary Altona he was a very dedicated and loyal member, and active team player.
His input to create a database to assist our Art Show was his Rotary passion.
His other passion being his wife Gwen who died six months prior to Denis. Their attendance record was commendable, though they were fined by the Sergeant every time as they were always late.
David Shave
Rotary Clubs of Latrobe, Kew on Yarra, and Canterbury
David joined Rotary in 1985 and was a member of several clubs in Melbourne through his 40 years of service.
He was President at both Latrobe and Kew on Yarra and joined Canterbury in January 2020.
He contributed significantly to all his clubs and was recognised for his contribution to Rotary as a Paul Harris Fellow four times.
Brian Sorrell
Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay
Brian was inducted into the Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay in May 1984. He lived on the North Glenelg Esplanade area where the club had several members. They we responsible for introducing him to Rotary. It's those members we can thank for Brian's long and valued contribution to Rotary.
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Brian was an engineer by profession and generously donated his considerable skills and his time to build or repair equipment for the club. A simple example is our cooked sausage holders that are invaluable to our sausage sizzles. On a more substantial basis there is the Bain Maree, the wash basin and stand, and improvements to the caravan. On one occasion the caravan lost a wheel on Anzac Highway when returning from a fundraising event and had to be towed to the shed by the RAA> When Brian heard about this he set to and repaired the wheel and replaced it on the caravan. This was Brian, done as usual without any assistance, fuss, or self-promotion. This was classic Brian - quiet, unassuming and effective!
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He was club President in 1999-2000 and served on several club committees as Chairman and also gave his time to serve on the DIK (now RARE) and RAWCS District committees. He was always an effective contributor never seeking any acknowledgement, just content to use his skills and be useful.
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After his retirement from Rotary, he continued to support the club in its community programs with generous financial donations. Brian was a Rotarian who epitomised Rotary principles and an outstanding example of Service above Self.
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Rest in peace Brian, and thanks for your many contributions to Rotary, and to mankind. Rotarian Lance Meaney, President Kerry, Board, members and partners o the Rotary club of Holdfast Bay
Lyle Strachan
Rotary Club of Edwardstown
Lyle became a member of the RC Edwardstown in 1980 and undertook many leadership roles in the Club incuding President in 1989/90 & 1998/99.
He was awarded Paul Harris Fellowship in 2000 and Paul Harris with one Sapphire in 2013.
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Lyle is probably best remembered for his many years as Manager of the Rotary Book Exchange.
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He relocated to Queensland in March 2020 and was awarded Honorary Membership of the Club in 2021.
Geoffrey Tate
Rotary Club of Adelaide
28th April 1923 – 22nd February 2025
Geoff passed away on 22/02/2025 at the age of 101 years and 10 months.
Geoff joined the Rotary Club of Adelaide on 25/02/1976, marking 49 years of membership.
The following “Do you know your member” was prepared by Tom Maxwell which was to be share with clubs members on his 102 birthday 28/04/2025
Geoff joined the Rotary Club of Adelaide to enjoy fellowship and assist others. He quickly became active in club affairs and projects, becoming the club's sixty-first president in 1983/84. Geoff received an inaugural Rotary International President’s Citation, highlighting his busy and fulfilling Rotary year, including the club’s 60th anniversary celebration. The Rotary theme during his presidency was "Share Rotary – Serve People".
Geoff sponsored the Probus Club of Adelaide and joined the Probus Club of Burnside after retiring.
Each Remembrance Day on 11th November, Geoff recited the Ode of Remembrance for the club. Geoff has been a Club member for 49 years, regularly attending lunches and actively participating in Burnside Group activities.
Despite his age, he volunteered for Trailblazer and Trailblazer by the Sea, managing the drinks tent at Henley Beach into his nineties.
Recent events ensured Geoff had wheelchair access. He became an honorary member in 2020 and celebrated his 101st birthday in April 2024.
His wife Coral, who joined group gatherings, passed away in January 2022 aged 96.
Geoff was also a member of tennis and lawn bowls clubs, the RSL at Unley, and Freemasons Victoria (72 years). His daughter Kathy is married to club member Gary McDougall, and a son Peter.
Brian Thomas
Rotary Club of Maryborough & West Lakes
Brian joined Rotary on 4 May 1988. He was a member of Rotary Club of Maryborough in Victoria for many years before he came to Adelaide and jointed the Rotary Club of West Lakes.
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While a member of Rotary Maryborough, Brian set up a program against domestic violence.
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Brian worked tirelessly for people to benefit from the work Rotary does in the local community and enjoyed the fellowship Rotary offered. He chaired a Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RTDA) program which was a joint program with Rotary Charles Sturt Grange
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Brian and his wife Jean joined other West Lakes club members for the Blanket Revolution initiative which repurposes old airline blankets for use by people or animals depending on their condition.
