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Burdekin Shire Council mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (centre) expressed confidence in Mr McVeigh (right) as the new president, whose appointment follows Carl List’s (left) two year stint at the helm. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Long-time Rotarian and former Australia Day Citizen of the Year John McVeigh has officially taken charge of the Rotary Club of Ayr.
The Burdekin local was sworn in as the new president at last Thursday’s annual Ayr Rotary Changeover event, which also saw new members honoured and special recognition for two key club contributors.
In attendance on the night was Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who expressed her confidence in Mr McVeigh as the new president.
“Ayr Rotary is in good hands with John McVeigh,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“He’s very dedicated to everything he puts his hand up for … and everything seems to thrive under John’s leadership.”
A teacher at Ayr State High School for 30 years, Mr McVeigh steps into the role following ____ years of contribution to the club as a member.
His appointment follows Carl List’s two year stint at the helm, who shared words of thanks for those who helped him during his own tenure before wishing McVeigh “all the best.”
“I’d like to think I left [the club] the way I found it,” Mr List said.
Mr McVeigh said his term will focus on connecting the community and local service clubs and attracting more members.
“My plan is not just to look at the 12 months, but how we want the club to look in five years’ time,” McVeigh said.
“We need more members, and part of attracting new members is going out, talking to people, and giving them confidence that there are people at the club who are willing to mentor them.
“And to all the service clubs, we’ve all got the same cause, we just fly different banners. I’d love Ayr Rotary to link with the service clubs … because I think there's a lot we can do.”
Mr McVeigh announced at the Changeover that board discussions on upcoming fundraisers, projects and grant applications are set to commence in the near future.
The event also saw Rotarians Stacey Koia, a member since 2017, and former club president Carl List receive Paul Harris Fellows recognition for their substantial contributions to the club.
New and returning members Aaron Kelly, Rosetta Tama, and Scott Morrison were also presented with membership badges on the evening.
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