What a truly wonderful Changeover night we shared! As I look back on an unforgettable year defined by transition, massive community impact, and the undeniable strength of our fellowship, it is with immense gratitude that I officially hand over the chains of office.
It has been an absolute privilege to lead the Rotary Club of Papakura over the past year. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to a club that wholeheartedly backed their President, actioned every request, and carefully considered every single idea brought forward for discussion. I would like to think that I leave our club in an even better, stronger position than when I began my term.
We were also absolutely delighted to have Rotapacific students attend our Changeover evening. They spoke beautifully for a short time about themselves, sharing what the RYLA program means to them and how it is shaping their leadership journeys.
Welcoming Our New President: Allan McKay
The absolute highlight of the evening was officially welcoming Allan McKay as our President for the upcoming 2026–2027 Rotary year.
Earlier in the evening, it was my privilege to present Allan with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition for his immense wealth of Rotary knowledge, incredible attitude, and the steadfast support he provided me throughout my presidency. Allan, your leadership will undoubtedly guide this club to incredible new heights, and we wish you and the club every success for the future!
Celebrating a Year of United for Good
While we didn't have time to mention every single achievement from the past 12 months , we took a moment to celebrate how we truly United for Good:
Governance & Growth: We successfully navigated the complex requirements of the New Zealand Incorporated Societies Act 2022, adopting our new Constitution and Bylaws well ahead of schedule. We also grew our family by warmly welcoming Peter Dodd alongside five incredible new members from the Manurewa-Takanini transfer: Simon, Murray, Graham, Janet, and Frank.
Major Fundraising Milestones: Our flagship NZ Motorcycle Show in October 2025 was a roaring success with over 4,000 attendees. We also delivered our biggest-ever Papakura Christmas Festival and Parade at its brand-new venue at Pulman Park, heavily supported by the Papakura Local Board.
Community & Youth Impact: From delivering 200 cans for "Cans for a Cause" to quietly coordinating crucial monthly food parcels for families and local schools, this club showed up. We also kept our legacy alive by awarding 10 Educational Scholarships , delivering "Dictionaries in Schools" , handing over a new patrol vehicle to the Papakura Community Patrol , and rallying to help raise $24,000 for young Hugo Donaldson’s medical treatment.
Evenings of Excellence: Awards and Acknowledgments
A club that works this hard deserves to be recognized. The evening allowed us to honour several members who routinely put "Service Above Self":
Certificates of Appreciation
Raewyn Hobman: For her boundless heart in quietly organizing targeted food parcels for those in desperate need.
George Wilson: For being a pillar of wisdom, steady guidance, and an unmatched mentor.
Donna Cox: For admirably transforming loose plans into spectacular, seamless fellowship events.
Andrew Harvey: For always having my back as a steady presence and a wonderful cheerleader.
Paul Harris Fellows
John Fothergill: In recognition of his enduring leadership as our past President.
Peter Wilcock: For keeping our engine running effortlessly as an amazing Club Secretary.
Warren Megget: For his faithful, long-term stewardship of the Papakura Rotary Charitable Trust.
Brian Shove: For his unmatched efficiency and impeccable management of our finances.
Graham Viall: For his outstanding vision and tireless leadership in making the NZ Motorcycle Show a triumph.
Rotarian of the Year
Lloyd Williams: For stepping up to organize and deliver our spectacularly successful Christmas Festival and Parade at our brand-new venue.
A Final Thank You
"I cannot thank my Board enough. To all of our recipients, project leaders, partners, and every single member who rolled up their sleeves this year: thank you for making my time as President as smooth, rewarding, and stress-free as humanly possible. I could not have asked for a better team."
As I step down from the Presidency, I am excited to begin my next Rotary chapter serving our district as the District Rotary Foundation Chair for the next three years.
Thank you all for an unforgettable year. Let’s continue to support President Allan, create hope, and take action to leave a lasting impact!
