The Rotary Club of Dunoon is looking to attract new members and change perceptions. The organisation is keen to shed the stuffy, stereotypical image that people associate with Rotary clubs as it bids to build for the future.
Current chair Andy Armstrong explained: “We have modernised considerably since Covid, are now much less formal, and very interested in welcoming new members who would like to play a role in contributing to our local community.
“Rotary is for anyone who has a love of company, a desire to do some good, both locally and internationally, and forge strong friendships. Rotary clubs can have fun, make a difference and raise awareness for broader global challenges all at the same time with an inclusive, family-friendly format that allows people of all ages to participate.
He added: “The meetings are informal. The members meet for dinner onceamonthat51stState, a monthly Zoom or round table meeting, and a weekly completely informal catch up and coffee each Saturday morning at the Boathouse.”
Outgoing President Elspeth Black, reviewing the 2024 achievements, commented: “This year’s Christmas appeal succeed in raising the magnificent sum of £2100 and the club was pleased to present the cheque to the Befriender’s representatives at the club’s Christmas Dinner.The dinner itself was a happy occasion and finished with a brilliant secret Santa.
“Over the past year the club has assisted Santa at his grotto, managed excited P7 Chess players, learned how to run race nights and Disco Bingo, enjoyed the return of the Quiz teams to ourQuizNightatBogleHa’,
carriedoutbeachcleaning, run a successful Showcase, made magnificent hampers to raffle and persuaded the good people of Dunoon to part with their cash for good causes. We have also helped a local Ukrainian family with travel costs.
She added: “The year has already got underway with a sociable walk to Innellan followed by lunch at the Royal, and a round table meeting at the Queens Hall to plan the next 6 months activities. The club has undertaken to raise £2000 for Heartstart and is also planning this year’s P7 transition project.
“Scotland featured prominently at last year’s Rotary international Convention in Singapore. Retired Edinburgh dentist, Gordon McInally, a close friend of Dunoon member Tony Black, was the outgoing Rotary International President. His wife, Heather, a talented singer, sung Flower of Scotland at the opening ceremony. It was an emotional performance with one attendee describing the hair standing up on the back of her neck. Heather sang accompanied by a piper.
“Dunoon members have attended conventions, and all find them to be full of wonderful warmth and enthusiasm. The very size of the organisation means that locally the club can reach so much further when it embraces international contacts. It can and does do so much at home but it can also achieve much more by forging friendships with other clubs across the world. We look forward to welcoming new members.”
More information about Rotary can be found at www.rotary-ribi. org/districts or contact dunoon.rotary@gmail. com or armstrongandy55@ googlemail.com / mobile 07808717427.
