How did you first connect with our club?
Shortly after I took early retirement from my job at Ford Motor Company, Robyn and I moved into a home in Blackburn, and I was approached shortly thereafter by Ken Clark, who was a neighbour, to join his Rotary Club, Box Hill Central, which I did. It was an easy decision because Rotary runs in my family - my father was a Charter Member of the Rotary Club of North Hobart, and my brother, Michael, is a Past President of the Rotary Club of Sandy Bay.
Why do you stay a member?
There are several reasons why I stay a member. Box Hill Central is an active club which has provided many different opportunities to serve. Its projects have made, and are making, a significant impact locally and internationally over the years I have been a member, and it has been, and continues to be, a privilege and pleasure to be able to contribute. The people I have met and the connections I have made are also a primary reason.
What are you passionate about?
Giving back! We have a very blessed life in our part of the world, and there is so much need in other places, both near and far. The more I learn about, and am exposed to, these needs, the more passionate I become about doing what I can to help, be it ending modern slavery and human trafficking or providing toilets and hygiene facilities to enable girls in disadvantaged communities to stay at school and complete their education, or simply making a small but positive difference in the lives of people in our local community.
What does volunteering mean to you?
Essentially as above. I have the time and the ability to be actively involved, so I will continue to do so while I am still able. It is a way to live a life of significance in my retirement.