By Danielle Kutchel
Garry Luxford has taken the reigns at the Rotary Club of Cranbourne, in a ceremony that celebrated the past year and looked forward to new projects over the next twelve months.
On Friday June 21, Rotarians from Cranbourne and beyond, as well as friends of the Rotary Club, converged on Settlers Run Golf and Country Club in Botanic Ridge to see Mr Luxford take over from past president Marcel Hendriksen.
Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon was also in attendance.
MC Lloma Shaw kept guests entertained with magic maths in between the formal proceedings.
During the event, the Paul Harris Fellow Award was presented to Drew Gormlie, Founder and CEO of Life! Central Services and project leader of L’Arte Central. L’Arte is a social enterprise café, transitional employer and art gallery which will provide second chances for people who have suffered severe and enduring mental health challenges.
“Our goal is to transform lives and help people that just need a little bit of support in certain areas so they can reintegrate into the community and get back to where they know they’re meant to be,” Gormlie explained in a speech on the night, receiving rapturous applause for his work.
Outgoing president Marcel Hendriksen acknowledged that he had overseen a year of busyness for Rotary, including numerous barbecues, the annual debutante ball, a golf day and support for the bushfire-ravaged community at Tonimbuk.
“I welcome Garry Luxford as our incoming president for 2019/2020. I know that Garry has a complete program lined up for the coming year – we will be in good hands,” he told the room.
“Garry, this is the second time that you’ve followed me as president. Last time you did us proud, and I’m sure you’ll do us proud again.”
After being presented with the chain of office, Mr Luxford took to the podium to officially thank the Club for its support.
“I’m truly proud of all the members of the Rotary Club of Cranbourne,” he said.
