Although now the feather duster I wanted to write the message for one last time. That’s because I know Phil would play down his role in our wonderful 61st Changeover and his award.
I’m delighted to report that a very deserving Phil Peckman was awarded a PHF last Wednesday.
No-one can deny the extraordinary contribution Phil has made to Rotary since joining our club in December 2020. Within 18 months he joined the Board as Director of the busy portfolio of Community Service and Revenue. Soon after he became President for the 2023-2024 year. And now, he is President again for this new year 2025-2026.
During these five or so years, his list of achievements are too many to list here, but he has made an immeasurable impact on the organisation and functioning of our club. This he has done in his very personable, friendly yet businesslike manner. Phil supports all our club activities and social events and has also played an active role in Illawarra Rotary Clubs combined projects. So, this PHF was awarded to someone who epitomizes the ethos of Rotarians.
Phil’s PHF was awarded at our Changeover, the organisation of which was also thanks to Phil. Added to that, he and Eduardo did a beautiful job of decorating all the tables.
And PP Arthur Booth OAM. Again, too much to say about this exceptional and well-loved Rotarian. He is entering his 60th year in Rotary and his list of achievements and contributions to the Wollongong community and to Rotary are amazing. His generosity has helped countless organisations, needy people and communities locally and internationally. It was very special to recognise his achievements with his son Darren and daughter in law Rachel. As well as an OAM Arthur is a well deserving recipient of a PHF+Ruby x 2.
PP Ken Potter was also recognised for his 25 years in Rotary, 20 of which has been spent as a very active Board member. Ken too devotes an enormous amount of time to Rotary and to our club events as evidenced by his well- deserved receipt last October of a PHF++. Ken is also a well-loved, hard- working and appreciated member of our club.
The presentation of our club activities and achievements for the year showed how busy and productive we’ve all been – yes, all our members are active, all contributing what they can, when they can.
Phil then introduced and presented our donations to representatives from Green Connect, SYFS, SAHSSI, Our Community Project and The WIG Library. Their explanations of how the money would be spent was confirmation of them being very worthy recipients.
So, I happily now have passed over to Phil and the new Board and look forward to another successful year of community service and fun with my friends and fellow Rotarians. I want to sincerely thank everyone for your support, efforts and contributions this past year.
