ROTARY, the world’s first service club and founded in Chicago in 1905, made its way to Camden Haven where the Rotary Club of Laurieton was chartered in 1966.
Also the year the Dunbogan-Laurieton bridge officially opened.
This year, the Rotary Club of Laurieton is celebrating a major milestone, commemorating its 60th Diamond Anniversary.
Since its first meeting at the Laurieton Hotel under foundation President Keith Carolan, the club has grown to be an integral part of the local community through decades of sponsorship, fundraising, and acts of service.
In 2000 Jean Wyper was invited by Past President and mentor Vince Beecher to join the club, becoming its first female member.
She later went on to become the club’s first female president in 2009.
Jean told News Of The Area, “I’m proud of my female first achievements particularly being recognised as Club Person of the Year in 2023, but the highlight has been the special friendships I have formed and the support I have received from my fellow Rotarians.”
During her tenure with Rotary, Jean has served a second term as president, held a range of directorships, participated in every book sale and volunteered in Vanuatu as part of a team assisting locals to build a hospital.
To commemorate their Diamond Anniversary, the club’s 29 current members will host a special celebratory dinner at Laurieton United Services Club on Saturday 7 February.
Tickets are $45 per person, and members of the community are welcome to attend.
The club is particularly keen to see former members and former Rotary exchange students attending.
The dress code for the evening is semi-formal, with a black, white, and diamonds theme.
Enquiries to Vere Gray vere.gray@bigpond.com or 0438 457 395.
By Rachael THORPE
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