The Rotary Club of Dandenong commemorated an impressive 90 years of community service with a celebratory dinner at the Dandenong Club on October 5, 2023. The event attracted numerous attendees, including friends, family members, and local councillors from Greater Dandenong, who joined in marking this significant milestone.
Celebrating a Legacy of Service
During the evening, club president John Ternel highlighted the importance of the occasion. He noted that the gathering was filled with historic reflections, camaraderie, and a deep sense of pride for decades of community contributions. “It was truly inspiring – a proud moment that captures the very essence of Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self,” Ternel stated.
A centerpiece of the celebration was an elaborate cake, symbolizing the club’s long-standing commitment to service. Attendees also had the opportunity to view a bulletin that documented the inaugural meeting of the Rotary Club of Dandenong, held at the Royal Hotel in April 1935. Notably, Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary, travelled from the United States to participate in that first meeting, a testament to the club’s early significance.
Messages from Past Leaders
Adding a special touch to the festivities, Past District Governor Ken McDonald and his wife Margaret joined the event via FaceTime. They shared their reflections and congratulations, reinforcing the club’s legacy and its impact over the years.
Among the attendees were prominent figures from the local government. Sophie Tan, the deputy mayor of Greater Dandenong, along with councillors Lana Formoso and Rhonda Garad, attended the event, further emphasizing the community’s support for the Rotary Club’s efforts.
This celebration not only marked a significant anniversary for the Rotary Club of Dandenong but also served as a reminder of the vital role that such organizations play in fostering community spirit and providing essential services to those in need.
