President Robert welcomed all to Barry's "50 years in Matamata Rotary", a tremendous effort from a special man.

As well most of our Club and partners, we had many guests including District Governor Ross Pinkham, DG Elect Kevin Forgeson and wife Dianne. DG Nominee Bill Robinson and wife sent their apologies as they are still recovering from effects of Covid. From Tauranga we had long time friend of our club Roger Miller DG 2012/13.  Ex Matamata members Glenda Milligan, Trevor Robinson, Sue Whiting and Jim Bremner and wife Mary and Matamata Rotary's 43rd President Bruce Hancock 1989/90. Also the late Bruce Stanley's wife Lesley, he was Club President 1996/97.

(Photo below) Barry's family attended; cousin Heather and husband Brent Macintosh, it was Heather's father George Robinson who introduced Barry to Rotary in 1972 and went on to be President in 1975/76.

Surprise guest godson Michael Worth made the trek down from Auckland.

 

 

Also in attendance were friends Ann, Richard and Sally Clothier. Historical Society members Anne Stanley, Joan Hall, Mary Cobham. Also from Tauranga were Barry's neighbours Kerry and Kate Snowden, they hear a lot about Rotary. Suffice to say we were packed!

 

Apologies from Miranda and Mike F, both are isolating due to Covid. Michelle T is recovering in Waikato hospital after surgery and sent a heartfelt apology. Mike Steiner also as he has had a mild stroke. The doctors said that because he took an aspirin quickly it helped him a lot. It was from his Rotary keyring! We wish all our patients a speedy recovery.

 

David Hulme was asked to come up on stage along with Barry. With two armchairs and microphones the scene was set for "This is your Life". A wonderful way to find out more about a well respected man.

 

Barry has been an outstanding member of The Rotary Club of Matamata for the past 50 years. He drives over every week from Tauranga, is usually the first person to arrive and helps set up and often attends any working bees. For his 50 years service and dedication, the Club honoured him with a Paul Harris Fellow double Sapphire. For this the Club has donated $1000 USD to the Rotary Foundation to further the work the Foundation does around the world.