The event at the Goulburn Soldiers Club marked the handover from the president and board from the last 12 months, to the new president and board members. The dinner included a number of distinguished guests and friends of Rotary, such as Rotary District Governor Margaret Hassal, Mayor Bob Kirk, Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman, and Member for Hume, Angus Taylor.

Outgoing President Graeme Hewett spoke about the pleasure of leading the club over the last year, and the ability to give over $68,000 in donations through the club's fundraising efforts.

"It is the ability to help others in need that makes the job so worthwhile", he said during his President's Report.

He went on to present cheques to two of the recipients of the donations, Mark and Leanne representing Endeavour Industries ($3000), and Helen and Bob from Growing Abilities ($5000).

Mark Fenton-Jones from Endeavour Industries, thanked the club for their long association with their organisation.

"Rotary's ongoing support has allowed us to focus on helping people with disabilities find worthwhile employment and maintain independence," he said in accepting the cheque.

Helping people with disabilities was a theme for the evening, with Helen Morgan speaking about how the donation will support Growing Abilities.

"We provide opportunities for people with disabilities to develop their skills and confidence through growing and maintaining the not for profit nursery," she said.

"The donation will allow us to install solar panels to reduce the power costs over time, keeping the money we raise to go back into supporting others."

One of Mr Hewett's last tasks was to award a Paul Harris Fellowship to Margaret Thompson, who has helped organise the Goulburn Rose Festival for many years.

He praised Margaret's dedication and hard work in making the Rose Festival a very important event in Goulburn's calendar.

"Paul Harris was one of Rotary's founders and this award is one of the highest honours a Rotary Club can bestow. It is certainly well deserved," Mr Hewett said.

Incoming President Graeme Neil was inducted by Rotary Governor Margaret Hassal, and then introduced the new board.

"It is an honour to lead such an outstanding club and I know the incoming board have the skill and knowledge to maintain our commitment to put 'Service above Self,'" he said.

The Rotary Club of Goulburn Mulwaree meet every Monday at the Soldiers' Club at 6.15pm for dinner. Most dinners include a guest speaker and planning for future fundraising and community service. If you would like to make a difference in your community, contact the club through their Facebook page - just search for 'The Rotary Club of Goulburn Mulwaree'.

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