The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellowship is the Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs.
It is named after Rotary’s founder, a Chicago lawyer who started the organisation with three business associates.
Benalla Rotarian Bruce Walker said David had been a part of Rotary since 2001.
‘‘Fairly soon after he took on the role of Sergeant and fine master,’’ Mr Walker said.
‘‘The club can thank David for his tireless work on the triathlon, club bulletin, club contact lists, and club history.
‘‘He can always be relied upon to keep the show going and provide a light hearted atmosphere at meetings.
‘‘Outside of Rotary, David has been a very involved community person.
‘‘He served his country in the Vietnam war for 12 months, he is a life member and past president of Apex.
‘‘And he has held the role of secretary of the Memorial Hall Committee for many years, he is vice-president of the Benalla Historical Society, vice-president of the Cooinda Board of Management, and a past school council member.
‘‘In his spare time, David rides up to 200km every week and is an avid reader.’’
Mr Walker said John had been a member of Rotary since January 2002.
‘‘John took on the role of Sergeant and fine-master from the early days and he has been responsible for keeping members entertained with his quick wit and pleasant manner,’’ Bruce said.
‘‘His major roll over many years has been with Rotary Youth Exchange.
‘‘He has welcomed and farewelled students at the airport and has acted as counsellor and mentor.
‘‘He has also hosted students until they have settled in Benalla and has arranged for their schooling.
‘‘John has taken students to his farm at Upper Ryans Creek and to his sister’s property at Jerilderie where they gained experience on a sheep station.
‘‘He has also taken students on holiday to Lorne to experience beach life.’’
John has been involved with Apex, where he served as chairman of the Ballandella (now Yooralla) committee of management.
He has also served on the FCJ College committee of management, has been a chairman of the St Joseph’s village complex and served as district chairman of the Sandhurst district YCW organisation.
Mr Walker said the Paul Harris Fellow was an honour richly deserved by John and David.
‘‘Their long lists of achievements and Rotary involvement over many years is very impressive,’’ Mr Walker said.
‘‘Equally impressive is that both John and David are still fully involved with club activities.’’
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