I was asked to join Devonport Rotary in 1985.  I thought it would be good to join a local community service organisation and as my father had been a Rotarian I readily agreed.

Rotary is respected internationally for the amazing amount of service and goodwill it gives to needy countries and causes. It has also been, for me, a source of lasting friendships.

When I joined the male only club, members had to be from a different occupation to ensure meeting people from a wide spectrum of business and professional backgrounds. This is no longer the case and we welcome anyone who shares the desire to help others in our communities. In 1989 the extension of membership to women brought a change in dynamics and their influence and dynamism has been a welcome development in our club.

Highlights for me have included the opportunity to take the role as president and enjoy the company of other club members and working together on community projects such as : Watson pool repair, Sculpture OnShore, Scotty Brewer Skate Day, Devonport Food and Wine Festival, initiating the annual tree planting programme on Motuihe island and Rotary projects in Vanuatu and on the island of Taveuni in Fiji.