Outgoing president Stuart Bayley made a number of presentations during the evening, and Walcha Rotary secretary and stalwart James Levingston collected most of them.

Mr Levingston was shocked when he was announced as the recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow Recognition certificate for his dedication to the club for many years. He was then called to the floor again to accept the Lunen Plate for his hard work during the past year. Barry Spry was once again the Stirrer’s Award recipient, and Ian Cameron was recognised for his work with Rotary International. During the year Mr Cameron led the hosting of two friendship exchanges: one from Colorado and one from Wyoming in the USA.

In response to John William’s toast to Rotary International, District Governor Bob Ryan said Walcha was in the centre of the district and an integral part of Rotary International with a strong focus on youth projects.

Before handing over to the incoming president Don Murchie, Mr Bayley outlined some highlights from the year that was for the club.

“John Williams as Director once again shared Rotary within this area, and many members attended the District Conference in Laurieton,” he said.

“We also held an interclub bowls night with Rotary Uralla and a bocce game against Rotary Gloucester. Unfortunately  I couldn’t attend either match but was reliably informed that both clubs ‘cheated’ resulting in our defeat.”

Vaun Gegier led the vocational portfolio, and the club has received one applicant for the National Youth Science Fair to date.

“I have had an enjoyable year as president, made possible by the patience, support and faith of my wife Samantha and Rotary members,” Mr Bayley said.