Notes from Changeover (Part II) - Achievements

So what have we achieved?  How better to report back than to link our achievements with the newly revised RI Strategic Plan.

Support and strengthen Clubs

·        Membership remains a key area of focus.  We have introduced 120+ new members.  Sadly we have lost some who have passed away and we give tribute to them for the selfless service they have provided.  In particular I would mention the passing of PDG Stuart Hayton, who at 100 years of age was our first 9940 DG in 1956-57.  Such a wonderful man and we think of PDG Nigel and family as we pay tribute to Stuarts life and service.

·        Jean Phipps has worked tirelessly to charter a new Rotaract Club in Wellington (with Past RI President Frank Devlyn presiding no less).  Let this be the first of many more.  There has been active progress on fostering Interact Clubs in various Colleges.  This is exciting.  

·         I report with sadness that Woodville, our smallest Club, has taken the very hard decision to close at the end of this Rotary year – after many years of tremendous service to their community.  My admiration of President Glan’s achievements as President is recorded today.  I also am really chuffed at the way President Barrie Smith from the Stratford Club has grabbed the challenge of growing their Club by both horns!!  

·        And what about the actual numbers.  Over the last 5 years we have reduced the number of members in our District by an average of 53.  I have encouraged all to reverse this trend by ‘getting off our ask’ and increasing our profile in the community.

PDG Pat enjoying a lighter moment with President Carol

·        Good news is that 40% of Clubs are increasing membership, 23% remain at no loss and 37% are declining in membership.

·        I am able to report that this year we have reversed the trend and have increased our membership!!

Wonderful entertainment over lunch!!
Wanganui Collegiate School Music Group

In my visits to Clubs there was a real desire to embrace change and to be more proactive in the area of membership growth.  It is disappointing not having chartered any new Clubs, but I know DGE Bob will carry on the developing momentum as Clubs explore chartering new clubs - particularly Breakfast Clubs – in the next 12 months.   

·        I am thrilled that so many Clubs picking up on Club Visioning.  This has the potential to provide Clubs real continuity, direction and buy-in from their members to plan for the next 5 years– thanks IPDG David for your leadership.  11 Clubs have availed themselves of facilitation to help establish key priorities in Club activities and assist the development of Club Strategic Plans. They are - Stratford, Tawa, Wanganui, Feilding, Petone, Stokes Valley, Awapuni, Wellington, Wellington Central, Poirua Sundown and Eastern Hutt with 4 more clubs at planning stages

·        PDG Graham Douglass has moved our District into Rotary Leadership training -  make sure your Club is sending potential leaders to the next one scheduled for early in the new Rotary Year.