This is an exerpt from a speech which newly inducted President, Chris Shields gave at his induction in June.  
 ( at left: Chris & his wife Esther.)
 
"We are a great club as we have a big, open heart, willing to take on new challenges. We have a 'can do' positive attitude, and are prepared to listen and adopt new initiatives either within or from outside the club. As a result we have seeded many organisations that are growing in their community work, such as Life Education; Children First Foundation; The Next Step; Pinchapoo, to name but a few!
      We continue supporting community organisations doing great work, such as Wellways Australia, ( formerly Mental Health Fellowship),Burnett Institute; Croxton School; Interplast; RSL; Polio Plus; and not forgetting our student scholarships and Rotary programs, the Rotary Foundation.
      Our recent support for Bushfire Relief, drought affected communities, and our meal and food program with Reservoir Neighbourhood House for those in need during the Covid Pandemic Lockdown warranted mention last December by our Federal Member of Parliament, Ged Kearney. I quote from Hansard "One of my favourite quotes to remember in a crisis is to "look for helpers," During 2020, one of the worst years in decades, I've been so proud to see helpers everywhere in Cooper,... The Jika Jika Community Centre, Preston Rotary, Diverse, the Salvos.... and so many more. You are the backbone of our community, but this year you have gone above and beyond... you wrapped the arms of community around everyone." ( end quote)
" I want all club members to be aware that when you join Rotary you don't join a small club, you join a club with 1.2 million members, with an international reach. A very BIG club. Our club provides direct support to a school in Odessa, India, which provides education for impoverished families."
All at Rotary Preston wish Chris all the best in his year as President!!