The Rotary Club of Masterton South will be celebrating its 50th birthday in April, and the organisation is calling for expressions of interest in attending the celebration.
The event is set to be held at Copthorne on April 30, where entertainment will be provided by the Rotary Singers.
The Rotary Club of Masterton South has its origins in 1968, where the task of “moulding” 30 new people together, many of whom had no previous Rotary experience, was a challenge, according to a publication from the club, Our History from Charter to 2005.
“In the hype and excitement felt during the months leading up to that first formative meeting, the enormity of the job ahead was underestimated,” the publication states.
In addition to Ray Slemint, who was the club’s first president, the only other Rotarian was Noel Scott, both of whom had come from host club Masterton.
Noel Scott, who was the founding principal of Makoura College, served as the club’s first vice-president.
It was to these Charter members that the raw recruits looked to for leadership and guidance.
The club’s inaugural meeting was held in February 1969, and the Charter night was May 31, 1969.
Those who served as officers during the club’s formative years were: Rya Slemint, Noel Scott, Rya Mackmurdie, Len Frances, Guy Wagg, Don Searancke, Doug Leigh, and Bill Brettell.
To register your interest in attending the 50th anniversary celebrations, email Christine Brewster on [email protected]
