PAKENHAM Rotarian Helen Van Diemen became a Paul Harris Fellow at the Rotary Club of Pakenham change-over dinner on 30 June.
Helen joins others throughout the world whom Rotary has recognised for their devotion to the ideal of goodwill, peace and understanding.
Accepting the award, Helen said she was surprised and honoured to be this year’s recipient.
Club members and guests agreed she was a deserving recipient who had constantly served Rotary and her community.
The Paul Harris award is the Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing appreciation for substantial contributions to humanitarian and educational programs. It is named after Rotary founder Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer who started Rotary International with business associates in 1905.
Rotarians, their partners, and guests were treated to an evening of feasting and festivities at the changeover dinner on 30 June at the Pakenham Golf Club.
The club welcomed in new president Tim Ahern and thanked outgoing president Julie Crawford for her leadership and work over the past year, as a new leadership team took over for the 2009/2010 Rotary year. Rotary members work together to raise funds for community, national and international projects, while also enjoying the friendships that membership brings.