Photos: Supplied.
FROM THE ROTARY CLUB OF WYNNUM AND MANLY
The 70th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly is a momentous occasion. Established in October 1953 by local business leaders, the club began its journey with 24 dedicated members, led by local dentist Harry Hase as its first president. Over the years, it has thrived, expanding its membership to over 70 individuals, although it currently stands at 46 members, including Tony Fisher, the son of one of its charter members.
The highlight of this remarkable milestone will be a gala dinner, on October 21, 2023, at the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club. Anticipating an impressive turnout of over 100 attendees, the event will bring together current and former members, prominent local figures, and community representatives.
This celebration will shine a spotlight on 70 years of the club’s outstanding achievements in the local community. Notable accomplishments include the establishment of a monument honouring the Qandamooka people near the Wynnum wading pool, the development of Eastwood Beach near the Manly swimming pool, the preservation of Balgue’s Slip (Pelican’s Roost) on the Wynnum foreshore, the annual community Family Fun Day, Santas on rooftops at Christmas and all made possible through the club’s dedicated efforts.
In addition to its local contributions, the Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly has made a global impact, supporting educational initiatives in countries such as India, Tanzania, Cambodia, Timor Leste, and the Solomon Islands. Projects, ranging from providing solar lights to villagers in Timor Leste to clean water initiatives in the Pacific Islands, have spread goodwill and life changing solutions for so many. Furthermore, the club has facilitated cultural exchange through its sponsorship of numerous exchange students since the club’s inception.
The Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly stands as an inspiring testament to the positive impact that local organisations can have on their communities and the world at large.
