Rotary Club of Taihape – so valuable to the community

Just one of their projects

The sun was shining on Taihape today and so was the welcome we received as we arrived.  President Elect Jan greeted us at our Motel with a fruit basket and a big warm hullo.  President Brian then picked us up and we moved from one successful Rotary project to another, standing on the railway turn table, visiting Gumboot Park and looking at potential projects in the region.  We then met up with the Board at Bill and Jan’s home – and had an informative time discussing projects both here and overseas.  I had the opportunity to convey news about the Foundation Future Vision pilot and also to discuss approaches to marketing in the community.  I quick trip with AG Stuart to their meeting rooms where we were again greeted with typical Rangitikei hospitality.  Taihape is a small Club with 11 members but has a huge heart.  After an

DG Howard, President Brian, AG Stuart

enjoyable meal we sat around the table and discussed the ‘BASICS’ of Rotary and I encouraged them to take a fresh look at their approach to membership and to their Club venue.  We ended with a Club group photo.  Here is a Club who has a presence in their community far greater than their numbers would suggest.  And I was given to privilege to sign their speakers book which has been used since 1946!!  Bill Byford was thanked for his service to RYPEN which is operated out of Taihape and Immediate Past President Francis was presented a certificate for her service to the Club.

The members of RC of Taihape - what a team!