WHILE there may be the odd celebratory drink or two at its 50th anniversary event this weekend, Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West president Greg Appleyard has highlighted the club’s role as an important community pillar and not “old men sitting around drinking wine”.
Over the five decades since first chartered, the Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West has contributed to many iconic and valuable parts of the South East.
With celebrations planned for its 50th anniversary this weekend, Mr Appleyard said it was an honour to lead the prestigious club on the significant milestone.
“The club has done a lot of things over the years with the list of contributions almost never ending,” he said.
“It is not just us, it is all the Rotary clubs for a significant part of Mount Gambier.
“If Rotary clubs did not exist in a town like this, a lot of things would not happen.”
Mr Appleyard said Rotary was not just significant in Mount Gambier, but was a global force.
“Rotary has been the driver of overcoming many international issues like the eradication of polio,” he said.
“It is amazing what Rotary is involved in worldwide, not just here.
“Although the work can be challenging, you just have to do what needs to be done.”
Mr Appleyard said the club was strongly focused on growing its membership numbers and involving Mount Gambier youth.
“I think membership is one of our biggest battles,” he said.
“Everyone thinks they are too busy to be a part of a club as it takes up too much of their time.
“It is a case of priorities for all involved as I still have time and I run two business.”
Misconceptions of the club can turn younger generations away, according to Mr Appleyard.
“People have a misguided conception that it is old blokes sitting around and drinking red wine,” he said.
“It is not that at all, I do not even like red wine.
“We do a hell of a lot in the community.”
Mr Appleyard said one of the club’s most recent projects was participating in the Whitelion’s Bail Out.
“We raised over the required $1000 which gave back to disadvantaged youth,” he said.
“I think one of the most significant contributions is raising and donating $40,000 dollars to help establish the Mount Gambier Railway Lands and donating over 500 man hours to put the place together.
“All of our work would not be possible without the community which we are grateful for.”
The club invites all past and present members to the Southgate Motel for a celebration dinner on Saturday night from 6pm for 6.30pm start.
