Honouring tireless work of volunteers

Angela Altair and Pamela Barnes received Paul Harris fellowships at the Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand’s recent changeover dinner. (Supplied)

The Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand has honoured two club stalwarts for their years of support and work for the club.

During the club’s recent Christmas in July changeover dinner, Pam Barnes and Angela Altair received Paul Harris fellowships.

Incoming club president Geoff King said Ms Barnes had worked tirelessly as club secretary, which included organising the club’s Biggest Morning Tea, setting up Zoom meetings for Rotarians during the pandemic and volunteering at op shops in Williamstown and Altona.

“For the first time, I’m speechless,” she said.

Mr King said Ms Altair was honoured for her three terms as Hobsons Bay mayor, as well as a number of other achievements.

“ She co-founded the successful Williamstown Literary Festival, successfully agitated for improvements and expansion of Williamstown’s Library and keenly supported the upkeep and improvements at Williamstown’s Botanical Gardens,” he said.

Ms Altair said she was “humbled and embarrassed” to receive the award and accepted in on behalf of the Williamstown community.

Club member Warren McDonald received the P.R. (Russell) Soppit Award for his work as an Air Ambulance paramedic and as the club’s youth director.

Outgoing president Mick Trezise received a commemorative plaque and badge for completing his third term as club president before handing the reins to Mr King.

The Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets on the first and third Tuesdays in Williamstown on Tuesday nights at 6.30pm at the Customs House Hotel in Williamstown.

Details: www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au

Matthew Sims