A Report by Alan Larkin

The Rotary Club of Mobilong (Murray Bridge) hosted a visit by the current International President of Rotary International Ian Riseley and his wife Past District Governor Juliet Riseley last Saturday, 10th March at the Murray Bridge Town Hall.

 

The event proved to be an opportunity for reunions between Rotarians and their partners from the various Clubs represented from the two Districts 9520 and 9500. On our arrival, we offered refreshments and at the end of the formalities a wide range of tasty finger food and drinks were available.

 

The formal program focused on a presentation by Ian which focused our attention on the major aspects of the current Rotary Year.  The great success of our tree planting project was highlighted and the importance of the Rotary Foundation acknowledged.

Some 160 people attended the function which was a very friendly and sociable occasion. The Rotary Club of Holdfast Bay was very well represented by DGE Kim Harvey, PDG Peter Sandercock, PDG Roy Armstrong and IPP & National Representative of Inner Wheel Marilyn Armstrong, PP Barry Manson and President Alan Larkin. Whilst the outdoor temperatures hovered around 37 C, the hall was comfortably cool.

 

I was particularly impressed by Ian Riseley's  groundedness and his authentic and reassuring approach to his leadership. Congratulations to the team from the Rotary Club of Mobilong for their initiative and a very successful event.

 

The Murray Valley Standard newspaper reported that  President Riseley also attended  a forum and gala reception in the Murray Bridge Town Hall and inspected a World War I Photographic Exhibition in the Regional Gallery before he departed for Adelaide at 5.30pm to catch an early flight on Sunday morning.

 

Murray Bridge’s Deputy Mayor, Theo Weinmann, said the opportunity to meet the world leader of such a prestigious organisation is an honour.

 

“Rotary International has a proud history in Murray Bridge and throughout the world,” Deputy Mayor said. 

 

“Rotary works tirelessly for the benefit of others in the community and we are honoured to host a visit from Mr Riseley during his only South Australian stopover ...  and showcase some of the beauty to be found in our region.” Theo Weinmann said.

 

All in all, it was a great event.  Rotary Club of Mobilong must be congratulated.