Wellington South - a proud history

Jim van Praag receiving his
Honorary Membership Certificate

Today's lunchtime visit was to Wellington South - a meeting held in the Wellington Rugby Football Club rooms where we were surrounded by all sorts of memorabilia of our National game.  I met with the Board, where I learnt about the Big Dig, the Pride of Workmanship Awards, the meals on wheels, the Healthy Heroes programmes with the South Wellington Intermediate School and the fantastic work they are doing with Trees for Survival.  And then there was their 'Toys for Tonga' appeal - which is proving a great success and being run for the second year.  Then onto the meeting.  A Club with a membership of 33 and the number at the meeting was reported as 37! with partners, visitors and a transferring member Alan from Waiheke Island all part of the crowd.  I had the privilege to present to Jim Van Praag an Honorary Membership after 44 years of service to the Club.  I challenged the club to look at their traditions and to ensure their club was revitalised with the view to attract more members from the community.  The Club is actively looking at the 5 for 1 programme.  This is a Club being well lead by President Francis who has only been in Rotary for four years.  Another very enjoyable visit.