Well Queenstown Rotary has certainly hit the year and the ground running and we have plenty of activity ahead.
It was a pleasure to welcome to the Club new member Julie Forde, and see her inducted as a Rotarian on the 4th February 2025 by PDG Kerry.
Kerry has probably forgotten, however 5 years ago also on the 4th February 2020 when I was President last time, he carried out the induction of new Member Marc Holtzman.
Don’t forget to speak with Ashley about your availability to assist the NZ Golf Open Fundraiser.
BBQ’s and Carparking are the order of the week, and there remain a few spots where support is required.
Our Guest Speaker on Tuesday is our very own Genesis Garcia Acosta from Mexico, known to us as Genn.
Genn will update us on her story and journey to date. Come along and support her.
During the first few weeks of 2025 I have participated in three sets of Strategic discussions with Companies and Organisations I am connected with.
While these engagements have been outside of Rotary there has been a consistent theme with a focus on Leadership.
I have been aware of the leadership capability that exists in our Club and have been reminded of the contributions being made by many for the benefit of the Club.
To that end I acknowledge the leadership displayed by many of our club members this month.
- Kerry, for leading the induction of a new member,
- Grant and John for leading the volunteers for the Opera in the Garden,
- Ashley for leading the fundraising endeavours with the N.Z. Golf Open as a priority,
- Fiona for leading the Bulletin production,
- Lee-Ann for leading the District RYLA endeavour,
- David who leads our secretarial activity,
- Joan who leads the Charitable Trust,
- Stuart for leading the weekly speaker program,
- Hamish who leads and drives all activity financial
- Keith, who as incoming DG will have a leadership responsibility to serve the Clubs.
and I know that there are many others taking a leadership role which is why the Rotary Club of Queenstown is outstanding.
So, from me, thank you for your individual contributions, they are appreciated.
The best leaders don’t shout, but they do communicate.
The best leaders don’t stand above their people, but alongside them
The best leaders don’t make waves, but they do make ripples throughout an organisation.
The best leaders don’t always talk, but they always listen.
The best leaders don’t know everything, but they try to know everyone.
The best leaders don’t guess, but they do plan.
The best leaders don’t react to every little thing, but they focus on the important things.
The best leaders don’t stand still, but they are prepared to challenge the status quo.
The best leaders don’t hide but are visible and accessible.
The best leaders don’t carry a burden, but they do carry the culture.
The best leaders don’t treat their mistakes as embarrassing errors, but as enriching lessons.
The best leaders don’t know all the answers, but they do know all the questions.
The best leaders don’t humiliate, but they do empower and encourage.
The best leaders don’t make a noise, but they do make a difference.
Look forward to seeing you all at Rotary this week and in the coming weeks.
Take Care
Ross
