1945 ~ 2008 - Gosford Rotary

Chartered: 23rd November, 1945 Club No. 6128 District 9680
1945 ~ 2008

Front Cover: Brady’s Gully Memorial Park
A derelict cemetery near North Gosford Hospital was converted with Council & Federal
Government help into a Rest Park. Proposed during Peter Turnbull’s Presidency 1996-97
and opened on 1st June 1997 by Mayor Tony Sansom with 300 people present.
Published in Australia by the Rotary Club of Gosford
P.O. Box 472 Gosford NSW 2250
1998 Production by Central Coast Printing, West Gosford
P.O. Box 6041 NSW 2250
Copyright © Rotary Club of Gosford 2008
Compiled and edited by Terence Bernard Devine.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a reference system, or transmitted, in any form, or any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise,
without prior permission of the publishers.
This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of
trade or otherwise, be lent; re-sold, hired out or otherwise circulated
without the publisher’s consent in any form or cover than that in
which it is published and without a similar condition including this
condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.
This edition production by Snap Printing Gosford
52 William Street, Gosford NSW 2250

THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD.
Chartered: 23rd November, 1945 Club No. 6128 District 9680
THE GOLDEN YEARS
1945 - 1998
1945 ~ 2008
incorporating the entire 1998 publication...
THE GOLDEN YEARS OF
THE ROTARY CLUB OF
GOSFORD.
PROUD OF ITS HISTORY—1945 to 1998
Includes the History (1945-80) edited by
Foundation Member PP Tom Arkins
1
and
Major Collett in 1980 during the
Presidential Year of Bert Hunter.
... and following with a 10 year update to 2008.

Mayoral Message 4
Foreword by PDG/PP Geoff Grenfell. 6-7
Comment by I.P.P. Henk Keulemans. (1997-98) 7
Comment by PP Peter Turnbull. (1996-97) 8
Club Historian - PP* Terry Devine. (1979-80) 8
The Rotary Club of Gosford — Special Dates. 9
Introduction from the “old” history. (1945-80) 9
Foundation and Charter Members— with dates. 9
How it all started.. the first 25 years. 10
Inaugural meeting. 10
The First Project. 11
“On Reflection” by the late PP Tom Arkins. 11
Dates of formation of Rotaract, Interact, Probus,
28/Impact Clubs. 17
Historical Events — year by year. 12-16
District Governors.
Presidential Citation.
Fellowship Activities.
CLUB SERVICE ACTIVITIES.
1. District Conferences. 18
2. Golden Jubilee “
3. Membership Growth Award. “
4. Honorary Members. “
5. The Gosford Rotary Trust. “
6. Bulletin Advertising. 19
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS.
1. FUNDING. 20-21
(i) Auction (ii) Street Stalls (iii) Race Days
(iv) Art Exhibitions (v) Christmas Stocking Raffle.
2. SPECIAL PROJECTS.
(i) Smith Family Home
(ii) Presidents Hill Lookout
(iii) Railway Fountain
(iv) Kariong Scout Camp
21-27
(v) Fairhaven School (vi) Hospital Kiosk
(vii) Waterfront Fountain and Memorial Steps
(viii) Henry Kendall Museum Slab Building
(ix) Pioneer Park (x) Rumbalara
(xi) Rotary Lodge
(xii) Kincumber Lodge
(xiii) Rainforest Interpretive Centre
(xiv) Bradys Gully Memorial Park
3. AUSTRALIA DAY. 27
4. L.J. McCARTHY COMMUNITY
SERVICE AWARD. 28
5. “A NIGHT IN VIENNA”- Concert. 28
6. PROBUS CLUBS. 28
7. JOHN LEDDY - Study Tour. 28-29
8. APEX CLUB OF GOSFORD. 29
CONTENTS
2
VOCATIONAL SERVICE PROJECTS.
1. PRIDE OF WORKMANSHIP AWARDS. 30
2. VOCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS.
3. CAREERS MARKET.
INTERNATIONAL SERVICE PROJECTS.
1. TRI-SISTER CLUBS AGREEMENT. 31
2. FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGES. 31-32
3. “FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE”. 32
4. FAIM (Fourth Avenue In Motion). 32-33
5. ROTARY/RSL KOKODA MEMORIAL
PROJECTS. 33
6. MEDICAL AID TO INDONESIAN BOY. 34
ROTARY FOUNDATION PROJECTS.
1. AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLARS. 35-36
(i) David Bradbury (ii) Dominic Dwyer
(iii) Kara Coates
2. GROUP STUDY EXCHANGE. 36
YOUTH SERVICE PROJECTS.
1. YOUTH EXCHANGE PROGRAMME. 37
2. ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARDS. 37
3. PEER SUPPORT. 38
4. NATIONAL SCIENCE SUMMER SCHOOL. 38
5. INTERACT. 39
6. ROTARACT. 40
7. 28 CLUB (IMPACT CLUB). 41
8. NEW ZEALAND TWIN MATCHED
EXCHANGE. 42
9. HAPPY TAPPERS. 42
10 .JOB SEARCH. 42
DISTRICT 9680 INVOLVEMENT. 43
GOSFORD INNER WHEEL. 43
CITY OF GOSFORD. 43
MEETING PLACES FOR ROTARY CLUB OF
GOSFORD. 43
WOULD YOU BELIEVE? 45-46
WHAT A YEAR IT WAS IN 1996-97!!!!! 47
CLUB MEMBERS 1996-97-98. 47
HONOUR ROLL. 49-51
PAUL HARRIS FELLOWS. 51
DISTRICTS OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL. 52
THE CENTRAL COAST ROTARY “FAMILY TREE”.
THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD
SOWS THE SEEDS FOR THE GROWTH OF ROTARY
IN 15 CLUBS ON THE CENTRAL COAST.
52
MEMBERSHIP GRAPH 53
JUBILEE NEWSPAPER SUPPLEMENT 53-59

Mayoral Message 63
Editor’s Remarks by Terry Devine PP* PHF 64
Banners of The Rotary Club of Gosford since 1945 65
Bulletin Covers over 63 Years 66-67
The First Twenty Presidents of our Club 68
Honour roll 69-70
Honour Roll 69
Club Boards 69
Paul Harris Fellows 69
Codswallop Trophy 70
L. J. McCarthy Community Service Award 70
President’s Award 70
Historial EvEnts – YEar bY YEar 71-74
somE mEmoriEs 75
Milton Frazer 75
Malcolm and Margaret Halliday 76
Trevor Hill 77
Harvey and Pat Porter 78
Jim Kirkness 79
Kevin Winterbottom 80
How I found Rotary – Novice’s View 81
Charlie Sherlock 81
Club sErviCE aCtivitiEs 82
Rotary Celebrates 100 Years 82
60th Anniversary of The Rotary Club of Gosford 83
Gosford Rotary Trust 84
Kinds of Membership 85
Honorary Membership 85
Membership Nights 85
Past Presidents’ and Past Members’ Nights 86-87
The Parramatta Shield 87
ContEnts (2008 update)
3
CommunitY sErviCE ProjECts 89
Gosford Rotary Gala Concert 89
Gosford District Hospital Kiosk 90
Pioneer Park 91
Happy Tappers 91
Hands-On Project 92
Australia Day 92
Quiet Achievers Award 93
voCational sErviCEs ProjECts 93
Pride of Workmanship 93
YoutH sErviCE ProjECts 94
Interact 94
RYDA Rotary Youth Driver Award Programme 94
MUNA and NYSF 94
RYLA 94
Youth Exchange Programme 94
The Science and Engineering Challenge 95-96
Film Festival and Circus Quirkus 96-97
intErnational sErviCE ProjECts 97
Chief Benjamin Ijumi 97
GEnEral mattErs 98
Inner Wheel Club of Gosford 99
John Connolly 99
Would you Believe 100-102
Classification Comparisons –
Charter Club versus Current Club 102
Club Members of Rotary Since 1945 103-106
Members of The Rotary Club of Gosford 2008-2009 107

MAYORAL MESSAGE
On behalf of Gosford City Council and the
constituents of this wonderful City I wish to
congratulate the Rotary Club of Gosford on the
production of this comprehensive and informative
document.
As Mayor, it gave me great pleasure to request
my fellow Councillor’s support for a substantial
financial contribution to this publication which was
agreed to with enthusiasm. This support recognises
the dedication of the Rotary Club of Gosford since
its inception in 1945.
Gosford Council and Gosford Rotary have
worked with the community on many projects over
the past 50 years and these stand as reminders to our
citizens of the benefits of such a strong
partnership.
I am sure this publication will provide a valuable
source of information and many hours of pleasure for the residents of Gosford and our many visitors.
4
Councillor Chris Holstein
Mayor of Gosford City Council

The Rotary Club of Gosford:–
ROTARY THANkS
BANNERS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD
• Thanks current members of the Club for their editorial, pictorial and financial
support.
• Extends special thanks to the staff of Central Coast Printing and, in particular
to Noel Vidler, a former Club member and a great supporter of the Rotary Club
of Gosford for over 25 years.
• Expresses gratitude to Gosford City Council for their long standing support and
assistance. The Club thanks the Council for its contribution to this History.
5
Many Thanks
The Rotary Club of Gosford

THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD.
INAUGURAL MEETING: 18th July, 1945
CHARTER GRANTED: 23rd November, 1945
CHARTER PRESENTED: 7th September, 1946
FOREWORD. Geoffrey I A Grenfell -
Past District Governor (D9680)-1995-96
/ Past President- 1975-76
To be invited to be a member of a Rotary Club (and therefore a member of
Rotary International) has always been a privilege. To be invited to be a
member of the Rotary Club of Gosford means that you also inherit the
privilege of pride in a more than 50 year heritage of service to the local,
national and international “community”.
The Rotary Club of Gosford was chartered by the Rotary Club of Newcastle.
It has not only served the “community”, but it has been indirectly responsible
for the extension of Rotary ideals and principles to the fifteen (15) Rotary
Clubs now practicing on the Central Coast.
What an incredible heritage that has endowed upon the Central Coast - many
thousands of hours of voluntary labour, many thousands of dollars delivered
to the community (both local and international), many inspirations for new
Rotary ideals, projects and commitments, and many missions of peace and goodwill to the Greater Rotary World
— places such as USA, Canada, Japan, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, South Africa, India, New Zealand,
Switzerland, Siberia, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
Rotarians from this Club have grasped the concept of Rotary International, both at home and abroad, and have
carried out humanitarian projects in conjunction with these countries.
The Club was chartered in November, 1945, some months after the end of World War 2 and in a time of dreadful
uncertainty, a time of food rationing, a time when many of us were still grieving over the devastation of the war,
and, a time of strikes and unrest.
Was there ever a worse time for young businessmen returning from the war to be asked to consider the
responsibilities of Rotary International ?
Was there ever a better time ?
Perhaps not! For the community had, as it did in 1905 when Paul Harris founded Rotary, a need to look at
business ethics, a need to rebuild the community, a need to renew our attitudes and redirect our efforts to our
own problems of National development.
In the months during which our original members were preparing to Charter our club in 1945, significant events
of that period must have influenced those men who had already given service to their fellow men and women.
In July 1945... Prime Minister John Curtain dies, Ben Chifley is elected PM.
Churchill is dumped as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Clement Atlee replaces him.
August,1945.. The Atomic Bomb is dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Japan surrenders.
Atlee says we have a choice now between World co-operation and World destruction.
United Nations
Organisation formed.
War criminals tried and convicted.
Liberal Party formed.
Sept,1945... Radio censorship is lifted. We are told about 55 million war dead.
Oct,1945... Strikes begin — Unions demand 40 hour week.
Nov,1945... Moscow announces its intention to build an atomic bomb.
Rainbird wins the Melbourne Cup.
UK and USA debate the future of Palestine.
UNESCO founded.
De Gaulle elected President of France.
Does any of this sound new ? We still argue about Palestine, nuclear tests and strikes. We never seem to learn
the lesson about preserving those principles of integrity, love and peace.
Throughout the ensuing years the members of the Rotary Club of Gosford dedicated themselves to the pursuit
of Rotary ideals and philosophies without which their community would be a less desirable place.
I am proud to be a member of the Rotary Club of Gosford. I am proud too of being allowed to share the last 25
6

years and to have witnessed many of its achievements.
Each and everyone of us who has been a member of the Rotary Club of Gosford, even for a short period of time,
has shared in the work, taken pride in the achievements and has benefited personally from the knowledge and
expertise of the many and varied vocations of its members.
It is fitting that the Club has chosen to record some of its history and achievements over the past fifty years so
that Rotarians who follow in “Service above Self” can take pride in their pursuit of the “modern” practice of
Rotary philosophies.
I congratulate the Club in producing this history and I thank each member for allowing me to share the privilege
of their vocational expertise, their fellowship and the unique “spirit” of the Rotary Club of Gosford.
Rotary International has given us a set of principles, a code of ethics, a mission of peace and goodwill, a goal to
achieve in the pursuit of family and community concerns, an aim to preserve planet Earth and a will to eradicate
life-endangering diseases such as polio, and the desire to eliminate poverty, hunger, violence and loneliness.
Rotary International continues to expand its horizons, to increase its membership and to spread its mantle of
caring to nearly every part of the world.
Whether you are a Rotarian, a family member of a Rotarian or a recipient of one of its many awards, you will
appreciate the concept of Rotary International.
Geoffrey I A Grenfell
(Geoff was inducted on the 8th January, 1970. He was Club President in 1975-76 and was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship in 1983.
Geoff became District Governor, D9680, in 1995-96. Over the years he has held every directorship in the club, has worked on many
club committees and has been greatly involved in District activities since1977-78.)
COMMENT. Henk keulemans -
Past President 1997-98.
Looking back on almost 20 years of Rotary, all but two at Gosford, I can
visualise many valuable pictures of serving one’s community prompted by a
colourful smorgasbord of dinners at the Golf Club spiced with the camaraderie
and quick wit and a bouquet of vintage speakers.
Where else does one find a weekly meeting with a children’s Doctor from
Vladivostok, a Canadian Social Scientist drawn back to Cambodia, a
Specialist from Bombay and Gosford, the Consul General from the
Netherlands and our own talented member speakers ? Who better than our
local business, professional and executive members to offer challenges for
showing that Rotary cares for its community, the world and its people ?
Whether door knocking for the Red Shield or the Red Cross, or interviewing
Job Search students, Youth Exchange applicants, RYLA candidates or Pride
of Workmanship awardees, or getting dirty hands at Bradys Gully, a sun tan at William Plaza street stall, the
public response of appreciation can always be felt.
And could one remain unmoved by a colourful picture from Mandala Clinic patients to thank us for the Nintendo
TV and Video, or feel the glow of achievement of the “ work-for-the-dole” graduates at Bradys Gully ?. No week
goes by without a taste of saki from Osaka Northwest or an hour of visual delights from Brooks Broadcasting
Commission or the Chef’s Thai Chicken at the Gosford Youth services Drop-in Centre.
So, the rewards are plentiful. In spite of, or maybe thanks to, the weekly delights we are led to stay in fine health
and in good spirits free in choosing our own avenue of service.
The mix of background, vocation, make-up, age and origin are unique ingredients of Rotary’s stable diet. The
flags representing our Internationalism have raised our horizon and prompted the open door policy for anyone
willing to serve. So, we may be proud of our distinguished history whilst strongly engaged in the present and
confidently committed to a better future.
Henk keulemans
(Henk joined the Rotary Club of North Tamworth in 1978; he was inducted into the Rotary Club of Gosford on 16th October,1980; he
has chaired many committees and has held numerous directorships, including Treasurer and Secretary. He is the Immediate Past Club
President – 1997-98)
7

COMMENT. Peter Turnbull -
Past President 1996-97.
The challenge for my second Presidential term was to lay the foundation for
the next 50 years.
Having been a resident of Gosford for 50 years, I was fortunate to have
known the majority of the previous Club Presidents, which made me even
more conscious of the need to “ build the future with action and vision .”
Appropriately this was the theme of the World President for that Rotary
Year.
At the commencement of the 1996-97 Rotary Year, we were asked by our
World President, Luis Vicente Giay to:
- Honour our Past - This was achieved by completing the transformation
of the neglected Bradys Gully Cemetery into a Memorial Park.
- Support the new Generations - We supported nine youth/student exchanges.
- Strengthen Club Membership - Nine new members were inducted.
- Encourage the Active Participation of Every Rotarian - This is the cornerstone of Rotary and all the
above aims and objectives were achieved. I was honoured to again have the opportunity to be President of
this wonderful Club and to be supported by 70 enthusiastic members who actively joined together in setting
the course for the future. Special thanks to Past President* Terry Devine for his dedication in preparing this
historical record to Honour our Past.
Peter Turnbull
(Peter was inducted on the 9th March, 1972. He was President for 2 months before transferring to Queensland in 1975, where he
joined the Rotary Club of Brisbane West until his return to Gosford in 1976. He was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship in 1993.
In 1996-97, he was again President of the Club. Peter has been involved with numerous directorships and committees of the Club
during his membership and has been responsible for advertising sponsorship since he introduced it in 1975. He has been involved on
District Committees.)
CLUB HISTORIAN. Terry Devine -
Past President* 1979-80
(* PP of Rotary Club of Rylstone/kandos)
When I was Secretary during the years 1991 - 1995, I started summarising
the activities of each year in a detailed way. In the back of my mind was the
thought that this would help when we came to produce an updated Club
History.
I had great intentions to complete an up-to-date history for the 50th
Anniversary (Celebrations on the 24th November, 1995). This did not come
to fruition, and so, I have been working now for nearly two years to finish
this document.
A History of the Club was published in 1980 in the Presidential Year of Bert
Hunter, with Foundation Member (the late) PP Tom Arkins as Editor and
Rotarian Major Collett as Assistant Editor.
I have used all of the 1980 edition - some reproduced in exact detail; the rest has been updated and used in
various other articles in this 1998 edition.
I have had great help from many club members - I thank them most sincerely. There have been too many to name
but I do thank PP Peter Turnbull for his great support, especially in raising finance to produce this document.
I hope all enjoy reading this history and I know that for many older members it will bring back happy memories.
For newer members it will inform them of the past activities of the Rotary Club of Gosford in the local district
and community, as well as in the international sphere.
Terry Devine
(Terry was inducted on 10th March, 1977, into the Rotary Club of Rylstone/Kandos. He was President of that Club in 1979-80 and
held several directorships during his five years with the Club. He was inducted into our Club on 6th May, 1982, and has held several
directorships and worked on many committees over the years. Terry was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship in 1994. He was Chairman
of the District Membership Committee in 1995-96)
8

THE BEGINNING
INTRODUCTION from the first historical document (1945-1980) edited by Foundation Member Tom Arkins
and Major Collett with the organisation of the then President, Bert Hunter.
“This document is prepared to record the principal achievements in Service by the Gosford Rotary Club over
the first 35 years.
In the year 1980, as Rotary International celebrated its 75th anniversary, Gosford Rotary Club celebrated its
35th anniversary and in recognition the club now records its service which has been closely linked with the
progress of the District.
The many ambitious projects successfully completed would not have been possible without the help, co-operation
and financial assistance of other service clubs, the public and the Shire Council and its staff.
It is also gratefully recognised that the encouragement, help and sacrifices given by the wives and families of
the Rotarians, have always played a most important role in the success of the club’s projects, whether they be
large or small.
To help with the tasks selected, the club has been fortunate to have available from its own membership a wide
variety of skills and expertise, particularly in the fields of building, architecture, painting, surveying and even
blasting!”
FOUNDATION AND CHARTER MEMBERS. Extract from original history.
LIST OF ORIGINAL APPLICANTS FOR CHARTER - 8TH AUGUST,1945.
Harry Lord (Senior) Norm Tegel
Chas Staples Keith Enderby
Tom Lynch Tom Plummer
Tom Arkins Roy Thew
Adrian Hickey Ern Bennett
Dr Jim Paul Os Young
Ron Vaughan Ron Grieve
Cec Scott Jack Speers
Jack Little Roy Wood
OFFICIAL DATE OF GRANTING OF CHARTER BY ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
23rd NOVEMBER, 1945.
LIST OF MEMBERS WHO JOINED BETWEEN DATE OF GRANTING OF CHARTER, 23rd
NOVEMBER, 1945, AND THE DATE OF PRESENTATION OF CHARTER, 7th SEPTEMBER, 1946.
4th December, 1945 Len Bannister, Doug Berry
1st February, 1946 Dave Walker
7th March, 1946 Les Graham (senior)
May, 1946 Len Brennan, Trevor Hill
June, 1946 Eric Meggitt, Bob Wallwork
July, 1946 Eric Ironmonger, Ken McGillivray
LIST OF MEMBERS - CHARTER PRESENTATION NIGHT.
7th SEPTEMBER, 1946.
Tom Lynch, President General Bank
Dr Jim Paul, President Elect Medicine
Adrian Hickey, Sergeant-at-Arms Legal
Keith Enderby, Treasurer Savings Bank
Cec Scott, Secretary Co-operatives
Tom Arkins Press
Roy Thew Local Government
Harry Lord (senior) Orchardist
Tom Plummer Bank Valuer
Ron Vaughan Pharmacy
Ossie Young Footwear
9

Third & Fourth Presidents – Adrian
Hickey & Roy Thew “dressed up” for a
special Rotary Function in 1947-48.
Roy Wood Citrus Shed Manager
Norm Tegel Butchery
Ron Grieve Dry Cleaner
Len Bannister Surveyor
Doug Berry Building Contractor
Les Graham Motor Vehicle Distributor
Len Brennan Motion Picture Industry
Trevor Hill Laundryman
Dave Walker Sawmiller
Eric Meggitt Estate Agent
Eric Ironmonger Printer
Bob Wallwork Ambulance Superintendent
Ken McGillivray Fruit Inspector
HOW IT ALL STARTED — THE FIRST 25 YEARS
Extract from original history.
“The following facts, culled from a special supplement of the Central Coast
Express, 25th November, 1970 to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the club, list
in brief the majority of its achievements over that period and tell how it was
started.
First to recognise the possibility of a Rotary Club being formed at Gosford was
the late Harry Lord (senior) who was a member of the Newcastle Rotary Club
when he came to live in this area in 1944.
Harry used to drop into the old Gosford Times Office to have a yarn to staff
member Tom Arkins to whom he handed on his copies of ‘The Rotarian’.
Eventually the pair decided to take the first steps for the formation of the club,
and, on the spur of the moment, agreed to enlist the support of Tom Lynch, the
then manager of the Rural Bank of Gosford.
Harry’s next move was to ask the Newcastle Club to sponsor the proposed
Gosford Club.
Shortly after, John Draffin, President of the Newcastle Club, invited the two
Toms to choose the members of the business and professional community whom
they considered would be interested in forming the nucleus of a club.”
INAUGURAL MEETING. Extract from the original history.
“The inaugural meeting of the club was held on July 18, 1945 with John Draffin in the chair.
Records show that those who attended were Messrs Tom Lynch, Tom Arkins, Ron Vaughan, Keith Enderby, Dr
Jim Paul, The Rev Cyril Francis, Ossie Young, Jack Little, Roy Thew, Ern Bennett, Tom Plummer, Harry Lord
(senior), Cec Scott, Roy Wood and Ron Grieves.
Apologies were received from Adrian Hickey and Jeff Staples.
On this occasion John Draffin was accompanied by the Secretary of Newcastle Rotary Club, Harry Hey and
Rotarian Junius Price.
The first office bearers were Tom Lynch (President), Cec Scott (Secretary) and Keith Enderby (Treasurer).
The club’s constitution and by-laws were adopted on August 7, 1945, and it received its charter from Rotary
International from the hands of the District Governor, Harry Monk, on September 7, 1946, the Charter having
actually been granted on November 23, 1945.
The foundation members were Harry Lord (senior), Chas Staples, Tom Lynch, Tom Arkins, Adrian Hickey, Dr
Jim Paul, Ron Vaughan, Cec Scott, Jack Little, Norm Tegel, Keith Enderby, Tom Plummer, Roy Thew, Ern
Bennett, Os Young, Ron Grieve, Jack Speers and Roy Wood.
Subsequent members were Len Bannister, Doug Berry (December, 1945), Dave Walker (February, 1946), Les
Graham (senior)(March, 1946), Len Brennan, Trevor Hill (May, 1946), Eric Meggitt, Bob Wallwork (June,
1946), Eric Ironmonger, Ken McGillivray (July, 1946).”
10

FIRST PROJECT. Extract from the original history.
“Even as a provisional club, under the presidency of Tom Lynch, Gosford Rotary commenced a programme of
community service.
The first project agreed to on January 9, 1946 was to assist the Gosford District Hospital. A fortnight later it
was decided to raise $4,000.00 in funds for the beautification of the hospital grounds.
Later in April, 1946 a cheque for $1,125.00 was handed to the hospital board for this work Brief details of the
main projects carried out over the 25 years are the subject of another article in this issue.”
ON REFLECTION. Extract from the original history.
“It would be remiss of me if I failed on this occasion to make some reference to the establishment of the First
Rotary Club in this District in 1945. The first thoughts in this direction were those of the late Harry Lord, senior,
father of Harry Lord, junior, a late member of Gosford Rotary Club. Prior to coming to Gosford, the late Harry
Lord, senior, had been a member of Newcastle Club. He often visited Rotarian Tom Arkins at the old Gosford
Times office and loaned him copies of ‘The Rotarian’. During one of his visits it was mutually agreed that some
move should be made to establish Rotary in Gosford, and as a result John Draffin of Newcastle was appointed
the Governor’s representative to form the Club. Tom Arkins and Tom Lynch, the then Manager, Rural Bank at
Gosford, were appointed to make the necessary survey and select 20 persons to form the nucleus of the new club,
which received its charter later that year, with Tom Lynch as Charter President.
Since that time 35 years ago, clubs have been formed on the Central Coast at Woy Woy, Wyong, Gosford North,
East Gosford, Toukley, The Entrance, Terrigal, Umina and Gosford West.” PP Tom Arkins 1-6-1980
11

HISTORICAL EVENTS — YEAR BY YEAR
In chronological order, some of the oustanding projects and
events that have occurred since Rotary was chartered on 23rd
November 1845 follow:-
1945-46: (President Tom Lynch). Object: Raise $4,000 for
beautification of grounds of Gosford Ditsrict Hospital. Carnival
held in conjunction with Gosford Sailing Club at Easter to raise
funds. Charter night. September 7, 1946.
1946-47: (President Dr. Jim Paul). Weekend club assembly
held in Masonic Hall in April, 1947, donation of $1,052 made
to Gosford District Hospital.
1947-48: (President, Adrian Hickey). Activities: Substantial
donation to U.N.O. starving children’s appeal.
1948-49: (President, Roy Thew). Activities: Sponsored
formation of Wyong Rotary Club. Aims and objects were to
support Community Centre proposal, Gosford Boy Scouts,
Crippled Children’s Association, Girl Guides.
1949-50: (President, Cec Scott). Activities: Survey of Woy
Woy was made with the view to forming a new Rotary Club.
Subsequently, the Rotary Club of Woy Woy was formed with
our President Cec Scott as the District Governor’s special
representative. Trees were planted in the streets of Gosford
Town. Awards were made to school children for citizenship,
scholastic attainments and sporting achievements. There was
100% support for the Rotary Foundation
1950-51: (President, Ron Vaughan). During this year, Mrs.
Sloman, the proprietor of The Entrance Red Buses, provided a
bus free of charge to transport the Gosford crippled children
and adults to Sydney, where arrangements had been made with
Sir Edward Hallstrom, an honorary member of North Sydney
Club, for his members to take the children and adults into the
Zoo, in their cars. An intial contribution to Rotary Foundation
was made. Also a donation to the C.W.A.
1951-52: (President, Tom Arkins). Community Service:
Purchase of expensive drug made to help aged women cancer
victims. Move to have Apex Club formed in Gosford
(accomplished the following year). Help given in baths project
on the waterfront.
1952-53: (President, Os Young). Donation of flags, by
Fellow Gordon Proctor. Funds raised to purchase resuscitator
for Brisbane Water Dirstrict Ambulance.
1953-54: (President, Garnet Adcock). Activities: $150
donated to Gosford Primary School from street stall. Tree
plantings carried out in and around Gosford. Assistance given
in vocational guidance at Gosford High School.
1954-55: (President, Jack Corner). Activities: Tree planting
around the town. Assistance given in lining Girl Guides’ Hall
and to provide facilities at C.W.A. rooms. 40 Asian students
were guests of Rotary Club for a weekend. Rotary International
Golden Anniversary Celebrations. Maitland Flood Relief appeal
raised $600 from club members. A school essay competition
was held on the 4 way test. The winners, 4 boys, were taken by
P.P. Ron Vaughan for 6 days to Canberra, Snowy River Scheme
and Port Kembla Steel Works.
1955-56: (President, Dick Eagle). Activities: Cheque for
$1,100 presented to Girl Guides towards completing their hall.
Aid given to Scouts, learn to swim campaign and trophy
presented to most improved swimmer. Two trophies presented
at Junior Farmers’ Conference.
1956-57: (President, Doug Berry). Projects: Present High
School with library of long-playing speech and dramatic
records. Assist Terrigal Surf Club to furnish new clubhouse;
help in developments of Victoria Park and playing Fields.
1957-58: (President, Bob Vaughan). Activities: Donation
made of $800 to Legacy for the installation of a heating system
in Legacy House. The following major historical events
occurred during 1957-58;
1) The first man-made satellite was launched into outer space
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2) Work commenced on the electrification of the railway line
to Gosford.
1958-59: (President, Van Adcock). Activities: Donation of
$100 made to Gosford Boy Scouts; visit of Japanese Ambassador
Mr. Susuki; six students from Gosford High School sent to
Broken Hill.
1959-60: (President, Bob Potts). Activties: Year for Youth.
Support given to Boy Scouts at Kariong, Junior Brass Band. Float
entered in electrification of railways procession on January 23,
1960.
1960-61: (President Trevor Hill). Activities: Supported appeal
conducted by N.S.W. Institution for Deaf and Blind children.
Donation of $800 towards the furnishings of Smith Family homes
at Nell Park, Narara.
1961-62: (President, Alan Frost). Object: Beautification and
establishment of lookout on President’s Hill in conjunction with
Gosford Apex Club, Donations made to Sub-Normal Children’s
Association and Outward Bound movement.
1962-63: (President, Arch McLachlan). Activities: Portrait of
Her Majesty, the Queen presented to Toukley Rotary Club.
Projects: Fountain built in Burns Park, Gosford. Assisted with
appeal for poliomyelitis and handicapped people. Assisted in door
knock for funds for asthmatics.
1963-64: (President, Ewart Harvey). Activities: Donation of
Porta-cot to Gosford District Hospital. Aid to Gosford branch of
Sub-Normal Children’s Association in building of Fairhaven.
Donation of $300 made to Legacy Homes for furnishing of unit.
1964-65: (President, Max Traveller). Activities: Members
carried out work in grounds of Gosford District Hospital and Sea
Scouts hall. Donation of $200 made to Sea Scouts. Lawns planted
at Fairhaven School. Donation of $100 to Smith Family. The main
project was the removal of a cottage donated by Gosford R.S.L.
and re-erected in Pemmel St. The proceeds of the sale going
towards a caretakers cottage at the Scout Camp, Kariong.
1965-66: (President, Harvey Porter). Activities: $400
presented to Gosford High School for purchase of Library books.
Formed the Rotary Club of East Gosford. $1600 presented to
District Commissioner for Scouts, Ralph Mortimer, at Xmas
meeting for a caretakers cottage at Scout Camp, at Kariong.
1966-67: (President, Bill Davis). In this the 21st year, a
suitable publication was presented which included reproduction
of photographs of all current members, later to be known as
“Rogues Gallery”. The main project was the building of the
refreshment kiosk at Gosford District Hospital. The initial clean
up of Point Frederick Cemetery, the beginning of the huge project
to establish Pioneer Park. $1000 was also donated to various
charities. The hosting of International Asian students. The charter
night for East Gsoford Club. Gosford Club and East Gosford Club
hosted the District Conference at Erina High School — lunches
being served in a huge marquee, with rain like we’d never seen
before pouring down in a deluge outside.
1967-68: (President, Ron Sky) This year one of numerous
activities was the organisation of the first Careers Night in
conjunction with East Gsoford Club and attended by 100 students
and parents. An Apprenticeship Night, also very successful with
over 250 present, and a Father, Son and Daughter night.
International activities including sending one ton of wheat and
one ton of milk powder to St. Josephs Leprosy Home at
Tutticoriss, India. Sending of carpentary tools to Goroka Technical
School in New Guinea. Provision of funds to complete 6 years of
schooling for a Chinese orphan in Hong Kong. Hosting members
of a Group Study Exchange from Oregon and Afro-Asian guests
who were in the district studying local government
adminsitration.
1968-69: (President, Bruce Douglas). Another year of
worthwhile projects. Two Pulse Meters were presented to Brisbane
Water District Ambulance and a wheel chair to the District
Nursing Service. In Addition to a total donation of $1100 to
various charities, the club shared in the cost of a kombi van
presented to Aid Retarded Persons movement. A successful Ball
was held to raise funds to build a medical centre in New Guinea
under the FAIM scheme, and another successful Apprenticeship
Night was held. Work was also carried out on the Scout Camp at
Kariong.

1969-70: (President, John Jackson). John Jackson faithfully
followed Rotary International theme for his particular year,
Review and Renew. Much emphasis was given to youth activities.
The club sponsored 7 Group Study Exchange students from
Singapore – adopted another Chinese girl in Hong Kong and
brought two New Guinea children to Gosford and billeted them for
the Xmas holidays, with Bruce Hanks as camp father. Gosford
Club ran, as its major effort for the year, District 268 RYLA
seminar, at Narrabeen National Fitness Centre – this was attended
by 130 awardees, sponsored by all the Rotary Clubs of District 268.
This exchange triggered the formation of a Rotaract Club in
Gosford which was charted in June, 1970. Also, hearing equipment
was donated to aid the deaf, and a Malaysian student, Pauleng
Wang was hosted.
1970-71: (President,Wal Young). Rotary International Scheme
was “Bridge the Gaps” – main activities were the District
Conference and participation in the World Rotary Convention, held
in Sydney. A big job, which eventually involved much voluntary
work on the part of Rotarians, was the laying of the foundations and
commencement of the caretakers cottage, at the scout camp at
Kariong. Wal assisted greatly in the printing for the Conference.
The coach tour to Chichester Dam raised $553 for FAIM project in
New Guinea. Introduced souvenir spoons for guest speakers.
$50,000 presented to Miss Brown – to assist air fares to America.
American Associated Scholarship. Air Fares were paid for two
New Guinea students. 25th Anniversary Celebrations of Gosford
Rotary Club. Donation $600 to FAIM and $400 for furnishing
Legacy homes.
1971-72: (President, Bill Pluim). Bringing to the club his
extensive knowledge of the building trade, Bill was not only
involved in the scout project but was joined by fellow Rotarians in
the actual construction work. For this cause a donation of $821 was
also provided from club funds. The club combined with Gosford
Apex Club to build a boat ramp for the sea scouts. Bill was
instrumental in the formation of Gosford North Club. Donations
were made to the Smith Family. Fares were paid for New Guinea
students to come to Australia. A surf reel was provided for
Wamberal Surf Life Saving Club. RYLA awardees, Gosford Shire
Community Centre – the Darwin Cyclone Appeal – and a Careers
Night also received financial support from the club.
1972-73: (President, Les McCarthy). Les put a tremendous
amount of initiative and drive, to not only gain his fellow members
support, but that of East Gosford and Gosford North Rotary Clubs
in a combined effort to provide the much admired improvements to
the waterfront on Dane Drive. The centre piece of beautiful gardens
is the fountains, and equally important, are the steps leading to the
Cenotaph in the War Memorial Park. In excess of 6000 cubic yards
of top soil was used on the project and work parties from Mt.
Penang assisted. This year saw the successful hosting of the District
Conference and the first barbecue. Lost in the disastrous fire at the
R.S.L. was the finest collection of Rotary banners in Australia,
many of which were replaced by clubs throughout the world.
1973-74: (President, Bert Ghersi). This year was a fellowship
year and known as the year of the monster Auction Sales in
conjunction with 1st Gosford Sea Scouts, held on Sterlands
premises, on the site where Marketown stands today. Ron Vockler,
the well known Sydney Auctioneer, raised the sum of $6000 to pay
the cost of monies owing on the fountain and also enabled the club
to construct the steps leading to the Cenotaph. The official opening
was performed by the then Shire President Malcolm Brooks MLA.
The potting of tree seedlings at John and Judy Price’s Somersby
property which were later sold, the proceeds going to charity.
Auction details: 1500 people present; 560 lots; a 16 page catalogue;
a copy of Blue Poles promoted for sale and a hundred year old
forge.
1974-75: (President, Jim Kirkness). One of the three largest
projects carried out in this district in conjunction with Gosford
Apex Club and Gosford Shire, was the development of “Pioneer
Park” which covers the entire site of what used to be the Point
Frederick cemetery. Jim was also responsible for the promotion and
formation of Henry Kendall Interact Club. Hosted a group study
team from North Carolina – and a welcome home for our own
Group Study team from Michigan – Brian Freeman, a nominee of
this club was a member to go to Michigan. As an international
project we hosted Motoe Tamagawa, from Japan, and sent our own
nominee Leonie Griffiths to Japan. The formation of the Careers
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Market, which actually took place the following year was planned
at combined meetings of Gosford, Gosford North, East Gosford
and Woy Woy Rotary clubs, and Mrs. Angela Glover, Careers
Adviser, from Henry Kendall High. This continuing facility,
replaces the original nights. Bob Hawke, the president of the
ACTU and Major General Stretton were amongst the 1974-75
speakers of particular note. Also the Back to Rotary Reunion Night
was an oustanding success, with 9 charter members being present.
1975-76: (President, Peter Turnbull–2months). Peter, in his
short term, prior to his transfer to Queensland for our year, was
responsible for the removal and rebuilding of a slab hut from
Mangrove Creek, and its re-erection as part of the Henry Kendall
Cottage complex. Peter also introduced the concept of advertising
being included in the Bulletin to help pay for printing costs and to
support community projects. The introduction of dinner disc name
badges for ladies.
1975-76: (President, Geoff Grenfell-10 months). the
contribution of setting Bulletin advertising procedure in motion
during this period had the club’s full approval. The continuation of
work on Pioneer Park was again a major undertaking. The
construction of the stalls in the William St. Plaza was a project of
this clubs in conjunction with Gosford Lions Club. The initial
moves were made for the formation of Gosford West Rotary Club.
Commencement of the joint Xmas stocking appeal in conjunction
with the Scouts Association. Farewell to Motoe Tamagawa.
Donations to various other charities $1891.
1976-77: (President, Ed Drying). This year saw this club’s
involvement in the creation of Paul Harris Fellowship and money
for this purpose being set aside pending the selection of those
members to receive the honour. Ed gave particular attention to
International projects including study tours to other countries. The
major event of the year, however, was the official opening of
Pioneer Park by P.P. Jim Kirkness. The Charter Night for Gosford
West. Won the District Golf Day. $1000 towards William St. Plaza
stalls. $2600 was donated to various charities. A Group Study Team
from Canada was hosted. Combined with other clubs to welcome
home Group Study team from South Africa. Ran a Rotary auction.
Pride of Workmanship Awards. Continuing assistance to Rotaract,
Interact and RYLA. Careers market.
1977-78: (President,Peter Stephenson). Peter worked hard in
the name of Rotary on the committee for the Adelene Retirement
Village, which is now being occupied. This year also saw the
purchase of gas barbecue equipment for the waterfront. Peter had
the honour during his term of presenting the Paul Harris fellowship
awards to those selected. Bruce Hanks, Max Traveller, Arch
McLachlan and Bob Marshall. $8200 was paid to various charities.
Hosted Karen Olsen from Denmark. Hosted Golf Day and won it
second time in a row. Also the successful running of District 968
Conference with 1200 registrations, involved about 80% of
members. Guest speakers during the year were Premier Neville
Wran and State Opposition Leader, Peter Coleman.
1978-79: (President, Allan Eagle). The great success of this
year involved the raising of a total of $10,366. This was distributed
to more than 20 charities and in the creation of one more Paul
Harris Fellowship in the person of Past District Governor Eric
Blamey. Adoption of the singing of Advance Australia Fair in club
meetings in conjunction with the National Anthem. Adoption of
revised Club By laws. Successful Pride of Workmanship Award
and presentation Night. Visit and combined meeting with Swedish
Study Team. Charity dinner arranged and catered for by Irmgard at
Jardines raised $1500 for the Year of the Child. Adelene Retirement
Village was supported by Rotary and first units opened.
1979-80: (President, Bert Hunter). Initiation in conjunction
with Sara Lee and Gosford Shire Council for the development of
Mount Mouatt ridges and walking trails to be known as “Rumbalara
Reserve” with access road, recreational facilities and lookouts.
Julie Turnbull departed to Surabaya Indonesia for a one year Youth
Exchange. Support for boy Scouts Association, hosting of a Youth
Exchange student, support for Pride of Workmanship awards.
Careers Market, Rotaract, Interact and charity presentations. The
construction of a Rotary Lodge in Hospital grounds as a Rotary
International 75th Anniversary service scheme in association with
Gosford District Hospital. A combined effort of all Central Coast
Rotary clubs. A celebration was held at a meeting of the Rotary
Club of Gosford on 3 Jan 1980 to commemorate: The Proclamation
of the City of Gosford and also the 150th Anniversary of the
Proclamation of the Foundation of the Town of Gosford.

Prepared Club’s Historical Document “Proud of its History” 1945-
1980.
1980-81: (President, Jim Secomb). During this year, many
‘hands on’ projects were undertaken. Landscaping was carried out
in the courtyards of Legacy’s Nursing Home at Wyoming, and at
Fairhaven Lodge at Kincumber. A shelter was built for the BBQ our
Club had provided on the waterfront. Rotary Court completed. The
International Year of the Disabled was supported. There was
involvement with the Rotary Club of Cochin, India, and the
Childrens’ Summer Camp at Vision Valley was helped. A GSE team
from overseas was hosted during the Central Coast phase of the
visit. There were 72 members.
1981-82: (President, Les Scott). PP Eric Clark became the
Club’s representative at Council Naturalisation Ceremonies, which
were held in the Council Chambers in a most dignified manner. A
happy father/son/daughter evening was held. The Club sent a
student on an exchange program to USA and received one from
South Africa; they were Cathy Maher and Carole Nicholson
respectively. Karen Eagle and Michael Hurley attended RYLA.
Bernie O’Donoghue who had just returned from Japan, proposed
that the Club form a Tri-Sister scheme with one from Japan and
another from New Zealand.
1982-83: (President, John Williams). This year saw the official
formation of the Tri-Sister scheme between our Club and the Rotary
Club of Osaka North-West, Japan and Christchurch North, New
Zealand. The BBQ at Rumbalara was constructed, and the Club
visited Qantas Jet Base at Mascot, Veritage Press, our printers, and
Munmorah Coal Mine. The Ambassador of the Arab Repulic of
Egypt and his wife were guests of honour at an International
Dinner, the Club’s first experience of tight security. Michael
Frugtneit went to Denmark on a Youth Exchange program,
Sharynne Lamont and Gregory Smith on a RYLA and John Leddy
was sponsored for a World Education Project. PP Geoff Grenfell
was accorded a Paul Harris Fellow, and headed a Group Study
Exchange team to Switzerland. Ten members went to PNG/
Solomons on a FAIM project. PP Ed Drying fromed the 28 Club.
Marilyn Buttsworth being Charter President.
1983-84: (President, Lynn Dornan). The Rumbalara Project
was completed with the Nurrunga Lookout opened. The club
received a Tidy Town Award in conjunction with Alan Rogers from
Sara Lee. Much work resulted in a total amount of about $10,000
being made available for John Leddy to travel overseas to study
trends in intellectual handicapped training. The result of this project
was far reaching–John was presented with a District Vocational
Excellence Award; the whole training programme for teachers of
the intellectually handicapped was improved and updated; the
Commonwealth Department of Health looked into the provision of
assistance for training; workshops and special projects came into
being, ie Lasercraft. The club received a RI Presidential Citation
and was co-host of the District Conference with the Rotary Club of
Hunters Hill. We acted as host for incoming Ambassadorial Scholar
Kathleen Kening from the UAS. Ten new members were inductedtwo
of these later became District Governors- Eric Tenfalt and
Keith Robson. The club hosted the welcome home dinner for the
GSE team from Switzerland under the leadership of PDG/PP Geoff
Grenfell. Bushfire Awareness was emphasised with a Poster
Competition in conjunction with the City Council. Several
vocational visits occurred.Donations were made to Rugli Aid Post,
the Christian Mission Radio in PNG, and, the Helena Goldie
Hospital in the Solomon Islands is association with FAIM. We
hosted Jorn Benn (Germany), sent Michael Frugtniet to Denmark
and welcomed back David Singh from USA. The New Zealand
Exchange was launched. The Annual Report was published as part
of the Changeover Bulletin for the first ime. 73 members.
1984-85: (President, Malcolm Brooks). The Club staged “The
Art of Broken Hill”, with a number of well known artists from the
‘Hill’. Utilising an empty bank building on the corner of Mann and
Donnison Streets, the show was extremely successful. John Phillips
helped launch the Peer Support Scheme at Henry Kendall High
School. David Singh undertook a Youth Exchange to USA, and
Jorn Benn arrived from Germany. Stephanie Devine and Therese
Mortensen went to RYLA. A group from the Rotary Club of Osaka
North-West visited Gosford to cement the new relationship with our
Club; they were accommodated by the members. 76 members.
1985-86: (President, John Pratt). Through the work of
newspaper editor Roy Dibben, the Probus Club of Gosford South
was formed. In July, the Club celebrated the 40th anniversary of its
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inaugural meeting with one of the Club’s Charter applicants Norm
Tegal as guest. Jim Smith went to Manus Island with a FAIM team;
Klaas Andersen from Sweden and Natalie Lovett to Japan; our
Youth Exchanges, Catherine Minter and Trevor Hartshorn went to
RYLA. The Club hosted the visiting GSE team from Georgia, USA
during their stay on the Coast. Our nominee Scott Parry-Jones
joined a GSE team to Japan. The Club was the first community
donor to the Laycock Street Memorial Theatre. PP Les McCarthy
was honoured with a Paul Harris Fellowship. The second art show
was staged with the painters from Broken Hill. 67 members.
1986-87: (President,Alan Swan). Several major innovations
took place, perhaps The Rotary Race Day at the Gosford
Racecourse being top. Sponsors were found to name races and
provide trophies, and the scheme showed early signs of being a
winner. The new high-level bridge (actually two bridges side by
side!) across Mooney Mooney Creek was opened at the conclusion
of a spectacular Rotary Fair held on the virgin roadway. Many
Clubs were involved. The Girl Guide cabin was restored in
Gosford, and effort was put into the Rainforest Interpretive Centre
behind Marketown. PP Lynn Dornan lead a GSE team to India. The
Interact Club at Henry Kendall High School erected a memorial
flagpole at the school commemorating students killed in accdients.
Youth Exchange Program: Stephen Vertergrrd-Jensen from
Denmark and Narelle Jeffries to Indonesia. RYLA: Therese Smith
and Kate Lawson. The Codswallop Trophy, patron Eric Reynolds
and marker Jim Kirkness. 72 members.
1987-88: (President, Peter Treston). The first exchange of
young people between our club and RC of Osaka North-West took
place, David Treston and Mandy Reynolds to Japan and Kajuyo
Kuba and Enuko Nishino to Gosford. An award from Rotary
Foundation enabled Dr Dominic Dwyer to work in the Pasteur
Institute in Paris on AIDS research. The short exchanges with New
Zealand began, Alison Grenfell to NZ and Jo Bulman to Gosford.
Kara Bailey went to Denmark on a Youth Exchange. PP Lynn
Dornan and Eric Goldswain were honoured with Paul Harris
Fellowpships. 70 members.
1988-89: (President, Russell Cox). Dr Dominic Dwyer
continued with his research in Paris. Jeannette Kellog came from
Canada on Youth Exchange, while we farewelled Kara Bailey to
Denmark. Two outstanding students from Henry Kendall High
School, Michael Rozmanec and Annika Pedersen attended the
National Science Summer School in Canberra. Another very
successful Race Day was held. Alan Skepper and PP Ed Drying
were honoured with Paul Harris Fellowships. A “Back to Rotary
Night” was held with many former members in attendance. We
hosted members and wives of one of our Tri-Sister Rotary Clubs,
Osaka North-West. Mendip, Somerset, UK Rotarians and their
wives visited us for the first time as part of our Friendship Exchange
programme. This was a great year for fellowpship and fun–one
with a millinery flavour because of the President’s penchant for
head gear! 69 members.
1989-90: (President, Jim Lawson). A busy year with visits,
including a Friendship Exchange to the RC of Mendip, Somerset,
England by a group of Rotarians and their wives. Another group
visited our sister club, Christchurch North RC in New Zealand. The
exchange of young people between Osaka N.W. RC and Gosford
continued: Sally Trimmer and Andrew Adams to Osaka and Ikuyo
Nedo and Hiro Fijii to Gosford. Lifeline, started on the Central
Coast by PP Jim Secomb, needed assistance to straighten up their
new quarters; this was provided. Geoffrey O’Reilly was our
nominee for the Youth Music Camp. 65 members.
1990-91: (President, Lester Marquet). The Club participated in
the Bowel Scan project with most other Central Coast clubs; our
involvement with this project generated useful publicity for Rotary.
Sponsors were again found for the Rotary Race meeting, an event
that generated considerable income. Seven citizens earned Pride of
Workmanship Awards, one of the largest number awarded at one
time. Two students, Tony Barham and Caroline Lapsworth attended
the National Science Summer School. The exchange of young
people between Gosford and Osaka continued; the Japanese
visitors were Takeshi Shinkawa and Yoko Nichino. Karla Schwartz
and Kim Gregory came fom New Zealand and Ceanne Wallace and
Carol Moore went there. Kevin Booth was made a Paul Harris
Fellow. 63 members.
1991-92: (President, John Phillips). The late Vern Arbie was
accorded a Paul Harris Fellowship for his services to Rotary and to
the community in his profession of journalism. A garage sale was

held to raise funds for Lifeline. A leadership seminar for Rotaract
was organised by Kevin Ransley. A party of Rotarians from
Mendip, Somerset visited Gosford as guests of the Club. Anita
Small and Craig Brown attended RYLA. Naota Sakai and Ikuko
Miyamoto arrived from Osaka and Darren Pye and Katherine Graf
went to Japan. Jo Meier was our nominee for the GSE to South
Africa. Maarike Franssen amd Kim McLenaghen arrived from
New Zealand and Louise Hiron and Luke Marquet went to NZ on
the Youth Exchange. The Kokoda PNG Project was planned. A
display cabinet to house the Club’s trophies was unveiled in the
Gosford Golf Club to commemorate Dr Craig Duncan and PP Les
McCarthy, two former Rotarians and leading citizens of the city.
The L.J. McCarthy Community Service Award was awarded for
the first time to Les Graham, son of former Rotarian Les snr. 64
members.
1992-93: (President, Kevin Booth). Emma Dowman arrived
from England to undertake a Youth Exchange: Nola Hocking left
for England in exchange. A group was formed–The Happy Tappers,
which encouraged intellectually impaired people to enjoy
performing dance routines. Thea Marler was in charge, and
encouragement was provided by a contingent of Rotarians and their
wives at each practice. To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the
Tri-Sister Relationship between the RCs of Osaka North-West and
Christchurch North and Gosford, a party of Rotarians from the
three clubs met at Gosford. A friendship visit from a group of
Rotarians from Sun Lakes, Arizona took place, the visitors being
accommodated in the homes of Rotarians. Fiona Drielsma and
Nathan Fabian attended RYLA. Kara Coates from USA, an
Academic Awardee, spent some months in Sydney, sponsored by
our Club. Graham Arnott attended the National Science Summer
School. Russ Cox and Peter Turnbull were made Paul Harris
Fellows. Several members attended the Rotary World Convention
in Melbourne. The L.J. McCarthy Community Service Award went
to Barry Margin and to PP Jim Kirkness. The Kokoda Health
project got under way, at the urging of PP John Phillips. 67
members.
1993-94: (President, Frank Cross). Our region, like many areas
of Sydney and NSW over Christmass 1993/New Year 1994, was
blighted by devastating bush fires; these received worldwide
publicity. Overseas Rotary friends were overwhelming in their
offers of help, the RC of Osaka North-West cabling $5,000 at once.
Other gifts were received from within Australia, RC of Rockhampton
Sunrise forwarding $500 for our Club to use to ameliorate the
damage. The funds were used to reinforce the Mayor’s Appeal for
these purposes, and the Club purchased a specially equiped trailor/
caravan for the local St John Ambulance, replacing equipment they
had lost in the fire. Secretary Terry Devine was accorded a Paul
Harris Fellowship. Local businessman Peter Robson was the
recipient for the L.J. Mc Carthy Community Service Award. A
group of our Rotarians and their wives paid a return visit to the Sun
Lakes RC in Arizona. Shellie Carr went to Germany on a YEP.
Danielle Kelly and Tim Curtis to RYLA. Linda Angledal and
Michael Miles went to Japan and Chica Motobayashi and Kazuhiko
Shiozaki came to Gosford. The Kokoda project got under way with
the construction of the first of the planned First Aid Posts at Waju
Village, some 20 kms from Kokoda, and the scene of heavy
fighting in 1942; the facility was completed and officially opened
in October 1994. 65 members.
1994-95: (President, Mick Whalan). The club was eager to
continue with the Youth Exchange Progam and produced a
‘contract’ which clarified for the incoming student the responsibilities
entailed in such an exchange. The Kokoda project began to attract
considerable attention and came to the notice of the Commonwealth
Government, keen to provide PNG with an appropriate memorial
to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of WWII. DGN Geoff
Grenfell was asked by the Government whether Rotary would
untertake the task of building a Memorial Hospital at Kokoda to
opened late in 1995. Although this task far exceeded in size
anything Rotary’s FAIM (Fourth Avenue in Motion) had previously
undertaken, Rotary accepted the challenge, and completed the task
on time (see opening details below).
President Mick and Alan Seberry, accompanied by Terrigal
builder Dennis McCarthy joined a FAIM team at Kokoda.
The club hosted the visit to the Central Coast of GSE team
from Rotary District 2690, Japan, lead by Professor Yoshihiko
Murashima, for one week. A group of Rotarians and their wives
from Ditsrict 3140, India spent a week on the Central Coast staying
15
with our members as a Rotary Friendship Exchange, which was
very successful. The Consul in Sydney of the Peoples Republic of
China, Zhang Junsai, addressed a Rotary dinner attended by many
guests from the community, lead by the Mayor of Gosford City,
Alderman Tony Sansom and other business leaders. The very
active Interact Club at Henry Kendall High School celebrated its
21st birthday, Mrs Donna Judd, who had been the enthusiastic
co-ordinator for this activity, was transferred from HKHS; she was
replaced by equally enthusiastic Mr Russell Trimmer. The Happy
Tappers continued their routines with their teacher Mrs Dorothea
Marler. The L.J. McCarthy Community Service Award went to
Barry Cohen, former MHR for the electorate of Robertson, for his
efforts to stage the International Garden Festival at Kariong in the
year 2000. Barry had been a close friend of the late Les McCarthy,
and was much moved by the award. Late in this period, Japan
suffered a catastrophic earthquake, and the district of our Tri-Sister
Club in Osaka was among the area devastated. As soon as
communications were restored and queries answered as to what
help we in Gosford could provide, $1,000 was sent to RC of Osaka
North-West to use as they saw fit in their area. PP John Phillips was
made a Paul Harris Fellow for his work on the Kokoda Project. 68
members.
1995-96: (President, Keith Dedden). During this Rotary year,
our club celebrated the 50th anniversary of its chartering.
Accordingly, preparations made over several months culminated in
the decision to celebrate with a number of events to mark that
milestone.
The major gist was the establishing of an ‘Undergraduate
Scholarship at the Central Coast Campus of the University of
Newcastle with two objects; one to initiate and association between
the Rotary Club of Gosford and that Campus, and two, to foster
excellence in academic achievement by undergraduates on that
Campus. The proposal was accepted by the Academic Board of the
University.
In association with that proposal, the club agreed to donate an
avenue of specially selected trees at the main entrance to the
Campus. The University agreed, and the trees, provided through
the good services of State Forests of NSW, whose Managing
Director Dr Hans Drielsma, is a Rotarian with our Club, were
planted by a Rotary labour force in August, under the supervising
attention of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Pofessor Les Eascott. It is the
hope of the Club that at its centenary, that avenue of trees will stand
as a mature and impressive mark of Rotary’s involvement with that
Campus.
On 16 Spetember 1995, the Prime Ministers of Australia, Paul
Keating, and Papua New Guinea, Sir Julius Chan, opened the
Kokoda Memorial Hospital at Kokoda. This memorial was dedicated
to the debt Australia owed to those PNG citizens who fought with
and assisted Australian soldiers during the savage fighting across the
Owen Stanley Range in 1942-43 and later. The hospital project,
which included the provision of a museum and a back packer hostel
at Kokoda, was constructed by Rotary for the Commonwealth
Government.
A long-time member of the Rotary club of Gosford, Eric
Goldswain, attended the opening ceremonies; he was the only
veteran of the Kokoda campaign present. It was 53 years since he
had been in Kokoda. Honouring his status as a veteran of the 2/1st
Infantry Battalion, Eric was presented by the local Paramount Chiefs
with several ceremonial gifts.
1996-97: (President, Peter Turnbull). The induction of nine new
members, which increased the club numbers to 71 - the largest for
many years, was recognised by District Governor Alex Sawyer’s
Membership Growth Award for large clubs. An oustanding New
Members Meeting was held with PDG Geoff Grenfell as special
guest speaker. Sadly we saw the passing of Arch McLachlan and
former members Jack Corner, Les Scott, Max Traveller, Bill
Johnston and Charter Member Norm Tegel. The Bradys Gully
Memorial Park was completed to the first stage under the supervision
of Terry Gibson. Tudor Davies was awarded the L.J. McCarthy
Community Service Award at a special orchestral evening at the
Central Coast Leagues Club featuring the Central Coast Youth
Orchestra. The Tri-Sister student exchange continued with two
young people visiting us from Osaka and two of our students
returning the visit to Japan. An outstanding Youth Exchange Student,
Kevin Carey, from the USA spent a year with our members. We sent
Jared Olive to Turkey. Rotaract was revived and is operating again
thanks to the efforts of Ed Dyring and Mal Singh.

Paul Harris Fellowships were awarded to Bob Husk & John Pratt.
The Kokoda Project continued with another Aid Post built at
Hanhau. PP John Phillips was honoured with an OAM for his
magnificent efforts. The year ended with many District Honours—
Club of the Year (first time ever), RI Presidential Citation, award
for our Rotaract Club for their interaction with the Rotary Club of
Gosford, the District Governor’s Award for Membership Growth
and President Peter was presented with a Mayoral Community
Service Award. 71 members.
1997-98: (President, Henk Keulemans). This was a year
dominated by International, Vocational and Youth activities. A
successful New Members Night was held early in the year with
Barry Cohen as our special guest. Youth Exchange featured with
Jared Olive returning from Turkey, Amber Funnell travelling to
Turkey and Anna Weber joining us from Germany. The club visited
75th Anniversary of Rotary – 1980
President Bert Hunker, PP Jim Secomb,
PP Peter Turnbull and a Scotish Piper.
1st History of the Club was produced in 1980.
16
Mandala Clinic and presented the clinic with a cheque to cover the
cost of video equipment. A club dinner was held at the Labyrinth
Drop-in Centre and a donation made towards their apprenticeship
programme. The Inaugural Vocational Service Award was presented
to Dr Bobbie Carter-Brown. A Vocational Night was held for
businessmen and women of the Central Coast and the club
participated in the District Pride of Workmanship Awards with our
representative, Christine McKenzie. We were also pleased to
receive our Tri-Sister friends from Osaka North-West on a visit.
The club sponsored the District Interact Seminar, in conjunction
with the Interact Club of Henry Kendall. A Friendship Exchange
team under the leadership of Malcolm Brooks travelled to Mendip,
Ireland and Scandinavia. The L.J. McCarthy Award for Community
Service was presented to Dr Brian Shaw. A Paul Harris Fellowship
was awarded to Don Craig. 66 members.

District Governors.
SOME DATES AND SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
Dates of formation of Rotaract, Interact, Probus, 28/Impact Clubs.
Rotaract Club of Gosford — chartered in June, 1970.
Henry Kendall Interact Club —formed in 1974, chartered 22nd May, 1975.
Probus Club of Gosford — formed 24th April, 1980.
28/Impact Club of Gosford — formed 19th September, 1982.(Disbanded 1993)
Geoff Grenfell — the first Club Member to be elected to be District Governor ( D9680)- 1995-96.
Eric Blamey — a Past District Governor ( D268 )- 1971-72 from Rotary Club of Eastwood. He later became a
member of our Club, with the classification of Bread Manufacturing.
Presidential Citations.
In 1983-84, the Club received a RI President’s Citation in the year of President Lynn Dornan.
In 1992-93, RI President Clifford Dochterman decided to award a Presidential Citation to each Rotary Club
which had achieved a balanced programme of activities.
In that year our club was successful in gaining the RI President’s Citation. ( President Kevin Booth).
In 1996-97, the Club again received the RI President’s Citation.(President Peter Turnbull).
In the current year 1997-98, the Club was again successful in being awarded the RI President’s Citation.
(President Henk Keulemans).
Fellowship Activities.
The Rotary Club of Gosford is well known for its fellowship. Each meeting brings together our members who
enjoy each other’s company. There is much discussion at the tables and the Sergeant’s session is always a time
of much fun and enjoyment.
Each year a meeting in January is held at the Terrigal residence of PP Bert and Claire Hunter— this is a
fellowship activity and in recent years has been a combined meeting with the Rotary Club of Terrigal.
The club meeting nearest to Anzac Day is a special meeting held annually; the members
honour our fallen, those who have served and the significance of Anzac. This is usually accompanied by
fellowship, reflecting the mateship of our servicemen of the past and the present.
The term “Four Avenues of Service” is often used in Rotary literature. The “Avenues” refer to the four elements
of the Object of Rotary: Club, Community, Vocational and International Service.
Club Service” — all activities necessary for the club to function successfully.
Community Service” — all activities undertaken to improve the quality of life in the community.
Frequently involving youth, the aged, the handicapped and others who look to Rotary as a source of
hope for a better life.
Vocational Service” — the opportunity each member has to represent the dignity and utility of his
vocation to other members.
International Service” — the Fourth Avenue describes the many programmes and activities undertaken
to advance international understanding, goodwill and peace. These are designed to meet humanitarian
needs of people in many lands.
In the club situation, each “Avenue” is managed by a director. In Australia, a fifth directorship has been
established; this is the Youth Director because Rotary is fully aware of the needs of the youth of our country.
17

CLUB SERVICE ACTIVITIES.
1. District Conferences.
(i) 1966-67 District Conference was co-hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Gosford and East Gosford at Erina
High School.
(ii) 1972-73 District Conference hosted by Rotary Club of Gosford at the Central Coast Leagues Club for
DG Fred Higgins. Jim Kirkness, Arch McLachlan and Max Traveller involved.
(iii) 1983-84 District Conference was co-hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Gosford and Hunters Hill.
(iv) In 1995-96, PP Geoff Grenfell became the first member of our Club to be elected District Governor
D9680. The Club hosted the District Conference at the King Street Convention Centre of the Newcastle
Workers’ Club.
This was a great occasion for the Club and large numbers participated in the organisation and the running
of the Conference. The Conference chairman was PP Malcolm Brooks who gained great support and the
Conference was regarded as one of the best, with large attendance from the District Clubs, excellent
organisation and fellowship, and extremely interesting speakers and activities. Among the speakers were
Rotarians from Eastern Russia, who came to the Conference as part of the special project, “From
Russia with Love”, of the then DG Geoff Grenfell.
2. Golden Jubilee. 50 Years of Rotary Service in Gosford and worldwide.
(i) Tree planting — fifty eucalypts were planted at the northern entrance to the University of Newcastle
Ourimbah Campus during the anniversary year, 1995-96. This was a service activity involving many of
the Club members and was followed by a barbecue and drinks.
(ii) A jubilee scholarship for students attending the Ourimbah Campus was provided by the Club to celebrate
and commemorate our golden anniversary.
(iii) A dinner was held on the 23rd November,1995, at the Central Coast Leagues Club where over 360
Rotarians, their wives, their friends and special guests attended to celebrate 50 years of Gosford Rotary
Service. The evening was chaired by the Club Service Director, PP Peter Turnbull.
3. Membership Growth Award.
In 1996-97, the Club was awarded the Governor’s Shield for Membership Growth for large clubs in the
District for the first time. (President Peter Turnbull)
4. Honorary Members
The Gosford Rotary Club awards Honorary Membership to those members who have distinguished
themselves by long and special service to the Club and/or to the Community on the occasion of their
resignation from Rotary. The Club does not follow the statement from the Manual of Procedure that
Honorary Membership is the highest award that a Club can bestow on one of its members.
The highest honour which our Club bestows is the Paul Harris Fellowship.
Honorary Members... past and present....
Past....Bob Marshall, Gordon Proctor, Bruce Hanks, PDG Eric Blamey, Jack Corner.
Present...Neville Wallwork, Pat Smith.
5. The Gosford Rotary Trust.
On the 4th June, 1987, the Club President, Alan Swan raised a ‘ matter of great importance’ at a Club
meeting. This matter was the proposal to establish the Rotary Club of Gosford Trust— the members
approved the establishment of the Trust with the aim to reach a figure of $100,000 and then to use part
of the proceeds of the Trust for donations and worthy purposes, and to re-invest the balance. Interest rates
then were high and donations to the Trust the Club attracted tax deductibility.
To set up the Trust, the Club donated $7500 to the Trust in the first year.
During 1991/92, with the help of Rotarians Henk Keulemans (Club Solicitor) and Bill Hickson, a legal
trust deed was formulated and adopted by Board on 18/6/92 — by that time the fund stood at around
$20,000.
The first Trustees were PP Alan Swan, Rtn Peter Motte, Rtn Bill Hickson, with outgoing
President, John Phillips and incoming President, Kevin Booth as ex-officio trustees.
18

Office bearers:-
Year Chairman Secretary Treasurer
1992/92 Alan Swan Bill Hickson Bill Hickson
1993/94 Alan Swan Bill Hickson Bill Hickson
1994/95 Alan Swan Bill Hickson Bill Hickson
1995/96 Bill Hickson Alan Swan Matthew Moore
1996/97 Bill Hickson Kevin Shumack Doug Newton
1997/98 Kevin Shumack Ron Hincksman Doug Newton
The Trust funds are invested in bank fixed deposits (donated monies) and blue chip equities (accumulated
profits). At the beginning of 1997, the total value of the fund was over $91,000, of which $1,000 (each)
was donated by Rtns Bill Pile and Sven Angledal, $48,500 has been donated by the Club, and the balance
(over $40,000 ) represented accumulated income and capital growth.
At the end of the 1996/97 Rotary year the Trust reached its target of $100,000 so the first disbursement
of proceeds could be made this year, 1998. Early in 1998, a number of anonymous donations were
received from Club members
Rotary Club of Gosford Trust —- Fellows
Members of our Club have made significant personal donations to the Club’s Trust. These include Trust
Fellows — Bill Pile and Sven Angledal
6. Advertising in the Club Bulletin
This was first introduced in 1975-76, on the suggestion of then President Peter Turnbull to offset costs
of printing. PP Peter has co-ordinated the Bulletin advertising since inception. Currently, this raises
$3,700 per annum and is also a contribution to community projects. This development has allowed the
production of bulletin covers of excellent quality over many years.
19

Charity Auction – “Blue Poles” with Peter Turbull
(Community Service Director)
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS.
1. FUNDING
(i) Auction
On Easter Saturday, 13th April,1974, in the year of President Bert Ghersi,
the largest ever Charity Auction on the Central Coast was held. This was
the most ambitious fund raising project of that year— it was necessary to
clear the Club’s outstanding project account.
This scheme, the brain child of Gordon Martin, was run in conjunction
with the First Gosford Sea Scouts and attracted an opening crowd of
1,500 people.
The honorary auctioneer was Ron Vockler who sold 560 lots from a
fourteen page catalogue. Included in the sale were 67 paintings and china
paintings from the Gosford Art Society (the presentation of these was
organised by Joyce Harvey). 50 of these items were sold. The venue was
provided by Sterlands (where Marketown stands now) and the organisation
was lead by PP Jim Kirkness.
Some of the unusual items for sale included a Persian kitten, a 100 year old forge, a grindstone and the replica
‘Blue Poles’ painting (by Athol Gleeson), which was passed in.
Eric Worrell paid top price ($155) for a painting by Harry
Spira. Top bid at the auction was $380 for a utility donated by
PP Les Arndell of the Rotary Club of Gosford North. PP
Neville Boyce (Gosford North RC) and the Sea Scouts
prepared the catalogue.
Past President Peter Turnbull was Community Service
Director.
The gross proceeds were $5293 and the nett result was $3300.
Rotarian Jim Kirkness was congratulated for his outstanding
organisation and special thanks were given to 2GO, the
Gosford Star (Rotarian Roy Dibben) and Keith Berg.
Another auction was held on 4th September, 1976 at the same
venue in the year of President Ed Dyring, but it was then
owned by Waltons.
(ii) Street Stalls and the William Street Plaza.
( Situated in William Plaza, Gosford )
The Club worked in conjunction with the Lions Club of Gosford to complete the stalls in William Street Plaza
for use by charitable organisations.
The work was commenced during the 1975-76 year of President Geoff Grenfell and opened on 3rd September,
1976 during the Presidential year of Ed Dyring..
Street Stalls were held by the Rotary Club of Gosford for many years, prior to the building of the William Street
Plaza Stalls, at numerous venues in Mann Street, and, there was always much competition for use of the popular
venues by many charitable groups. This competition led to the idea of building the William Street Plaza stalls
by the Rotary Club of Gosford assisted by the Lions Club of Gosford.
A conservative estimate of the money raised at Street Stalls over the years is $30,000.
(iii) Race Days
One of the highlights of the Rotary Year for the past 10 years has been the Gosford Rotary Race Day.
On May 28th,1987, the President Alan Swan conceived the Race Day, where we obtain sponsors for each race
on the programme and with the great support of the Gosford Race Club, we are able to put on a special day with
the opportunity to raise money. Malcolm Brooks, with much help from John Flakelar (in the early years), was
Chairman of the Race Day Committee.
We have been supported by businesses and individuals from the local community as sponsors. Even though the
economy has been in decline over the past five years we have still been able to continue with successful Race
Days.
The total funds raised over the past ten years up to 1996 has been about $60,000.
20
Charity Auction – 13/4/74 Arch McLachlan (on utility) –
Allan Eagle, auctioneer Ron Vockler

(iv) Art Exhibitions
The concept was introduced by Tricia Brooks and Hugh Schulz during one of Malcolm and Tricia Brooks flying
visits to Broken Hill during the 1980’s.
The exhibitions were called the “Art of Broken Hill” and the proceeds were to be shared by the Rotary Club of
Gosford, World Vision and Legacy. The first of these was held from Friday 1st March, 1985, for a period of 5
days. The artists involved were Kym Hart, Pat Coffey, John Dynon, Pro Hart, Eric Michim, Leo Smaniotto, Phil
Jones, Hugh Schulz, Neil Hall and Trevor Jones.
The venue was the then vacant CBA Bank building on the corner of Donnison and Mann Streets.
A second exhibition was held in the same venue on 28th February, 1986 for five days. Artists involved were
Kym Hart, Pat Coffey, John Dynon, Pro Hart, Leo Smaniotto, Phil Jones, Hugh Schulz, Trevor Jones, Robert
Bosch,Wendy Martin, Ruth Kerle.
The Opening Night on each occasion was a huge success both socially, financially and for club fellowship. The
proceeds of the two Art Exhibitions was about $18,000— the first was a little more successful than the second.
Malcolm Brooks was the Chairman of the Art Show Committee, and, with tremendous help from the whole
Club, the exhibitions exceeded all expectations.
(v) Christmas Stocking
In 1979, Rotarian Ken Herd, Superintendent of Brisbane
Water Ambulance Service ceased operation of the
“Ambulance Christmas Stocking” and offered this
activity to the Brisbane Water Scouts Association. This
was to be a fund raising exercise to support Camp
Kariong. Because raffles are illegal under the constitution
of the Scout Association it was negotiated and agreed by
Miss Joan Grenfell, Rotarian Ken Herd and the Rotary
Club of Gosford to share the proceeds. Rotarians Allan
Skepper, Geoff Grenfell and Ken Herd prepared the
stocking and managed the sale of tickets during the first
years.
Prior to 1979 the Christmas Stocking had been a major David & Janette Griffith & Family Happy Christmas Stocking Winners 1996.
fund raising method for the Ambulance Service and was
finally given to the Scouts after the NSW Government took over the financial support of the Ambulance
Service.
Rotarian Bob Wallwork, the original Ambulance Superintendent and his wife, Doris instigated the Christmas
Stocking Raffle.
This project has raised the most funds of any Service Scheme by the Club. Over the years tickets were sold by
Rotarians and volunteers outside Myers in William Street and at various other locations.
During 1981-82, President Les Scott welcomed the Brisbane Water Historical Society under the leadership of
Stan and Elaine Fry, who took over the sale of tickets—-this partnership has continued ever since. The Historical
Society has received $54,900 as their share of proceeds up to the end of 1996.
In 1983 Milton Frazer, Bill Reid and assistants took over as the Rotary organisers. During 1985 they built our
own display frame to accommodate a selection of better quality goods, which would be more visible when on
display. The cost of the goods in the first stocking was about $800 with a lot of cheap fill-ins. The cost of the
new hamper has grown to about $3,000 and includes quality items. This has been reflected in a big rise in
takings.
The total takings since 1981 has been $154,200 (gross). This has given great pleasure to our Presidents over the
years— they always love to give money away. The original committee of Milton Frazer, Bill Reid and others
continued until 1995 (except for 1986-87, when Ern Rippon and helpers stood in). Bob Pryke and Warren
Hosking are currently organising this splendid fund raising activity.
Stocking takings—1981..$5,200—1982..$5,700—1983..$5,900—1984..$6,400
Hamper takings—1985..$12,300—1986..$9,300—1987..$10,000—1988..$12,400—1989..$12,700—
1990..$12,300—1991..$14,300—1992..$15,300—1993..$18,200—1994..$15,500—1995..$14,300—
1996..$12,200— 1997.. $11,200.
2. SPECIAL PROJECTS
(i) Smith Family Homes. (Nell Park)
(Situated in Bellbowrie Street, Narara).
During the 1958-59 Rotary year of President Bob Potts, the Rotarians laid the foundations for the Smith Family
Homes at Narara. They also assisted with the construction of the buildings.
21

Jack Elms, Harvey Porter
(now second longest serving member)
Presidents’ Hill Lookout 1961–62
(ii) Presidents Hill Lookout.
(A lookout over the Broadwater. It can be reached by following Hely Street
from the Pacific Highway. A track leads to other views over Gosford
township).
The major project of the Club during 1961-62, in the year of President Alan
Frost, was the construction of Presidents Hill Road ( Rotary and Apex Drive)
and Lookout. Six men came in for special mention in the report of this project...
Gosford Rotarians — President Alan Frost, Max Traveller and Community
Service Director Tom Bamborough ...and Gosford Apexians — Apex President
Jim Kirkness, Rupert Imrie and Service Director Bert Hunter.
This was the first time that the Rotary Club of Gosford and the Apex Club of
Gosford had joined together for a project. Alan Frost reported that it was a
pleasure to work with Apex, to get to know them, and to develop great fellowship
and better understanding between the two Clubs. He also thanked the many
community members who contributed to the
work and the Shire Council for the supply of
plant and the sealing of the road. He goes on
to say an extra ‘thank you’ to Jim Kirkness (who never slept nor let him sleep),
to Beryl Kirkness who provided morning and afternoon teas, and to Bert
Hunter for the survey work.
To reach the top of the Hill, it was necessary to traverse virgin bush and rocky
outcrops.
This daunting task was overcome by the skill and effort of the Rotarians and
their “younger brothers”, who literally blasted their way to the top to provide
a 360 degree panorama of scenic beauty equal to anything in the world.
To make the road,
stubborn rock outcrops
were blasted out with
gelignite. When the
rough track was finished,
Council took over to
seal the road which has
since provided access
for thousands of tourists,
visitors and local residents.
Presidents’ Hill Lookout Opening 1962.
Edna Frost, Jim Kirkness, Beryl Kirkness, Lady Woodward,
State Governor Sir Eric Woodward.
(iii) Railway Fountain.
(Situated in Burns Park at the entrance to the Gosford Railway Station).
During 1962-63, in the year of President Arch McLachlan, a fountain was erected in the park at Burns Place
outside the Railway Station. The funding for the Fountain came from a generous anonymous donation of
$14,000 (7,000 pounds) from a Gosford resident.
(iv) kariong Scout Camp. (Situated in Woy Woy Road, Kariong).
This was a joint venture by Gosford Apex Club and the Rotary Club of Gosford. The camp and the roadway
were constructed by the Apex Club of Gosford. The first stone hut was built with sandstone from Gosford
Quarry. The Rotary members built the dam wall and later cast the concrete slab for the caretaker’s cottage. The
Gosford Inner Wheel financed and arranged the construction of the shelter shed on the site. The camp was
officially opened by the Governor of New South Wales, Sir Eric Woodward.
This work commenced in the year of President Alan Frost, 1961-62.
In ensuing years many of the Apexians became Rotarians and later members of the Baden Powell Guild. There
were many working bees and supporting services for the camp.
Much of the electrical work at the camp was carried out by current member, Kevin Ransley.
Many former Apexians, Rotarians and Baden Powell Guild members have served on District Scouting
Administration Committees - they include Allan Skepper, Doug Newton, Jim Kirkness, John Williams, Malcolm
Halliday, Gordon Martin, Russell Cox, Geoff Grenfell, Ric Godsell and Bill Pile.
22
1961/62 Presidents’ Hill Lookout
Rotary President Alan Frost
Apex President Jim Kirkness

(v) Fairhaven School.
(Situated in Brisbane Water Drive in Point Clare).
In the 1963-64 Presidential year of Ewart Harvey, the club members came to the aid of the Gosford Sub-Normal
Children’s Association and joined with the Lions Club and Apex Club of Gosford in building Fairhaven
School.
Fairhaven School is now part of a complex which has developed greatly in recent years from the Rotary Club
of Gosford’s involvement with John Leddy. ( See Community Service Projects section No 7, John Leddy).
(vi) Hospital kiosk.
(Situated at the entrance to the old part of Gosford
Hospital).
In 1967, in the year of President Ron Sky, the Club
embarked on a major project for the Hospital— the
building of a kiosk. This was completed and opened on
24th June,1967 just after Bill Davis became President.
The Gosford District Hospital Kiosk was constructed by
the Rotary Club of Gosford , assisted by citizens of the
Gosford Hospital Kiosk
area from funds raised by the Hospital Auxiliaries.
Speakers at the Opening were the Chairman of the Hospital Board, PP Bob Vaughan MBE , Rotary Community
Service Director Jim Kirkness, Rotary President Bill Davis with the plaque unveiled by Mrs G. Wicks, President
of the Hospital Auxiliary.
(vii) Waterfront Fountain and Memorial Steps.
During 1972-73, President Les McCarthy submitted a plan for the
construction of the Rotary Fountain and Garden situated at the base of
the War Memorial Park on the Gosford waterfront.
The original concept of the Waterfront Fountain and Garden was designed
by Kevin Winterbottom (an architect who has recently re-joined the Club).
The detailed architectural plans were carried out by PP/PDG Geoff Grenfell
(an architect and long time member of the Club) and PP Bob Fraser (Rotary
Club of North Gosford).
Rotarian Gordon Martin supplied powerful water pressure pumps; PP Jim
Kirkness was the engineer responsible for the installation and operation of
the equipment.
Many other citizens and club members contributed enormously in the supply of materials, man power, and
equipment. Some of these were Jack McInerney, Gordon Hattley and PP Max Traveller.
The cost of the project was $14,000 and it was necessary to use in excess of 4,000 cubic yards (3,000 cubic
metres) of soil to complete the fountain. Many hundreds of hours of labour were given voluntarily to complete
the task. At the time the fountain was estimated to be worth $50,000.
The combined effort of the Gosford, Gosford North and East Gosford Rotarians, as well as the boys from Mount
Penang was greatly appreciated.
The Memorial Steps were constructed during 1973 and linked the Fountain to the Gosford War Memorial. The
stairway consisted of forty three steps, twelve feet wide and a landing. The club was fortunate to secure the
assistance of Lodger Horsnell, a non-Rotarian, who supervised the concreting and enabled the job to be
completed at a substantial saving to the club. The club was very grateful to have so many helpers, from the
Rotary Clubs, from the community and from the businesses of Gosford.
The Memorial Steps were completed on Remembrance Day, 11th November, 1973, in the year of President Bert
Ghersi. The workers joined in the Service at the Cenotaph at 11am in their work clothes. The finishing touches,
including the under water lighting for the Fountain, were completed late in 1973 and the project was handed
over to the then Gosford Shire Council on the 16th December,1973, in the presence of PDG Fred Higgins. Shire
President PP Malcolm Brooks officiated at this function.
(viii) Henry kendall Museum Slab Building.
(Situated in Henry Kendall Street in West Gosford).
In 1974, the Brisbane Water Historical Society appealed to the public for help to re-erect a slab building which
had been built 100 years earlier on the property of Mr and Mrs Roy Douglass in the catchment area of the
Mangrove Creek Dam. The hut came from Dubbo Gully which is at the continuation of Waratah Road. The bark
for the roof was carted from the Wattagan Mountains by Jim and Beryl Kirkness and Peter and Donna
Stephenson.
Waterfront Fountain – soon after completion 1973
23

During the year of Presidents Peter Turnbull and Geoff
Grenfell, 1975-76, and with the assistance of Harry
Lord and his Rural/Urban Committee, together with the
help of others (including Bill Pile and Frank O’Toole) skilled in the use of the adze and other bush tools, the
Slab Building was re-erected in the grounds of the Henry Kendall Museum.The two past presidents involved
unveiled a commemorative plaque, in the presence of many district pioneers. The club was represented by PP
Jim Kirkness and President Les Scott.
The Historical Society was then planning the construction of a new building and the opportunity would arrive
for Service Clubs to assist.
Opening of Pioneer Park – 26/2/77
Rotarians: Jim Kirkness, Peter Turnbull,
Geofff Grenfell, Ed Dyring.
Apexians: Ken Austin, Michael Hunter, Jim Tritton
Henry Kendall
Museum Slab
Building
1975-76
(beheaded)
Ric Godsell,
Jim Kirkness,
Geoff Grenfell
(ix) Pioneer Park.
was prepared by the Royal Botanical Gardens to develop the
cemetery as a Pioneer Memorial Garden in a beautiful
bushland setting with pleasant walks and views of Brisbane
Water.
Two distinct areas were created to provide separate and
dignified regions where the headstones and memorial could
be located and a secondary recreation area with walkways
and lawn areas.
Members of the community made initial representation to the Gosford
Shire Council during 1953 for a Memorial Park to be established on the
site of the old cemetery at the end of Albany Street, Point Frederick.
Further representation was made to the Lands Department in 1956 and a
special Act of Parliament (known as the Gosford Cemetery Bill) was
finally gazetted in 1970.
The Shire Council
accepted the offer of
the Apex and Rotary
Clubs of Gosford to
assist in the execution
of the project. A plan
The construction of Pioneer Park, which was officially opened on 26th February, 1977, represented a fine tribute
to the great and consistent work of many respected citizens. It serves to remind us of the labours of the pioneers
who founded our city and our nation. The Club appointed PP/PDG Geoff Grenfell of Grenfell Fraser and
Associates official architects for the project. A major contribution to the work was made by PP Jim Kirkness.
(x) Rumbalara.
(A series of lookouts, walking tracks and picnic areas, situated above Gosford City. It can be reached by
following Dolly Avenue, Springfield).
The first stage of the Rumbalara Reserve was officially opened on the 1st June, 1980, by the Mayor of Gosford,
Alderman Don Leggett AM. This occurred in the year of President Bert Hunter. The Official Opening luncheon
was a barbecue under the control of PP Ed Dyring with his assistant, PP Les Scott. Their wives, Sue Scott and
Helen Dyring prepared the salads while Les and Ed set up the barbecue plate provided by Eric Goldswain. The
weather was kind and the luncheon proved to be a most successful one for fellowship and fun with Les Scott
joking and giving a running commentary as the guests filed by the barbecue.
The development went back to an idea put to Gosford Council in July, 1979, by the Rotary Club of Gosford. At
the same time, Alan Rogers, the Managing Director of the Kitchens of Sara Lee at Lisarow offered $100,000 to
24
Henry Kendall Museum Slab Building. Opened 1976 joint Presidents –
Geoff Grenfell & Peter Turnbull
Pioneer Park opened 26/2/77

Opening Rumbalara (1st stage) 1/6/80. Sara Lee’s Alan Rogers, Mayor Don
LeggaT O.A.M, President Bert Hunter, Keith Bolton
Cappers Gully, linking existing walking trails with large areas of
bushland with superb vistas over Gosford and Brisbane Water.
The work started on 21st October, 1979, when Gosford Rotarians held
a working bee with the aid of local earthmovers to clear a road to the
first lookout point.
In the early stages Mr Noel Hewitt (Chief Town Planner) and Mr Col
Watters (Parks and Gardens Supervisor) provided invaluable assistance.
The Society for Growing Native Plants pledged support.
More work was done
over the next three years,
and, during the
Working bee at Rumbala.ra Bill Johnston, Jim Kirkness, Jim
Smith, Les McCarthy, Bert Hunter
be contributed over a period of ten years. The ridges of
Mount Mouatt, which rise up as an eastern backdrop to the
Gosford City centre, proved ideal for the combined venture
with Sara Lee, Gosford City Council, which matched the
Sara Lee contribution dollar for dollar and the Rotary Club
of Gosford which provided voluntary labour.
The three groups formed a management committee and
plans were drawn up with other local businesses to
contribute.
The name “Rumbalara” is aboriginal for Rainbow and
commemorates the original inhabitants as well as expressing
something picturesque and romantic having a wide and
everchanging spectrum of sun and shadow.
The project was extended to include the adjacent ridges
and hills north to Mount Elliott and the rainforest area of
Presidential year of Lynn Dornan, the second lookout was opened
in 1984 by Mayor Peter Coleman; this was called Nurrunga
Lookout.
The 1983 Tidy Towns ‘Best Community Service Programme’ was
awarded to Rumbalara for the efforts of the Rotary Club of
Gosford and the Kitchens of Sara Lee.
During President John Pratt’s year of office, (1985-86), more
work was carried out including the setting out of parking bays and
tree planting.
(xi) Rotary Lodge.
(Situated in the hospital grounds, in Racecourse Road near
Beane Street West).
This was a Combined Rotary Clubs project (chaired by PP
Peter Turnbull) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Rotary
International. The Rotary Club of Gosford contributed $2,250
to the fund for the Lodge, in the year of President Bert
Hunter...1979-80. Gosford Inner Wheel donated $500, while
the other Rotary Clubs each donated $1,000. (Rotary Clubs of
Wyong, Toukley, The Entrance, Terrigal, Gosford North, East
Gosford, Woy Woy, Gosford West, Umina).
The then Gosford District Hospital CEO, Neville Boyce, (a
Past President of the Rotary Club of Gosford North) provided
invaluable assistance by co-ordinating trades and funding. This
ensured the success of the project.
Below is an excerpt from the address by the Minister of Health, the Honourable Kevin Stewart MP, at the
Official Opening of “Rotary Lodge” at Gosford District Hospital on Saturday, 23rd February, 1980.
“Ten Rotary Clubs of the Central Coast of New South Wales combined to make their 75th Anniversary Project
the establishment of a lodge at the Gosford District Hospital for the use of parents and relatives of patients
confined to the Hospital.
The completion of the project is a milestone in the affairs of Rotary in this District.
As far as can be recalled, it is the first time that ten Rotary Clubs have combined to sponsor one project.
25
Rumbalara Lookout (1st stage) opening 1/6/80. Les Scott
& Ed Dyring in action serving George Gibson
Rotary Lodge Opening 23/2/80. Claire Hunter, Bert Hunter (obscured),
Jim Kirkness, Dawn Smith, Jim Smith

You will appreciate how important is the provision of the lodge for parents and relatives of patients as part of
the concept of total health care that is being developed by the Board of Directors of the Gosford District Hospital
and the Central Coast Area Health Services.
I would like to extend to all of the ten Rotary Clubs, who co-operated to bring this project about, sincere
appreciation of their efforts in raising $1,000 each in order to attract the Hospital’s dollar for dollar
contribution.
And so with very special thanks to the Clubs concerned in this outstanding community project, I have great
pleasure in declaring open the Rotary Lodge for parents’ and relatives’ accommodation at Gosford District
Hospital”.
(xii) kincumber Lodge.
(Situated in Kincumber Street, Kincumber).
This unique and innovative venture by Fairhaven provided
accommodation and respite for intellectually disabled persons.
This scheme progressed to provide the first independent living
unit on the Central Coast. Gosford Rotarians have served over
the years on the Fairhaven Committee.
The members of the Rotary Club of Gosford became involved
in a massive service scheme for the development of the
landscaping of the Kincumber Lodge.
This job involved many hours of hard work from members in
the collection of massive rocks, their placement in the landscaping and the manufacture of a statue, pool and
fountain.
The generosity of citizens who provided large machinery and labour was greatly appreciated.
It is interesting to note that the Sydney Rotary Districts set up the original Crippled Children’s Association. This
eventually gave rise to the Fairhaven Association.
(xiii) Rainforest Interpretive Centre.
(Situated at the end of Donnison Street past the Court House).
This Centre was the idea of PP Les McCarthy, designed by PP/PDG Geoff Grenfell and funded by a Federal
Government Grant during the time when Barry Cohen was Minister for the Arts and the Environment. The
Rotary Club members worked on some of the landscaping and minor building work. The Centre was completed
during 1986-87, the Presidential year of Alan Swan.
After some time as a Rainforest Interpretative Centre, the buildings were purchased by the Department of
Education and they are now being used as a Special School for Environmental and Field Studies. There is a small
permanent staff of teachers who cater for visiting schools in their specialist studies.
Brady’s Gully Park 1996-97.
Peter Turnbull, Kevin Ransley, Dennis Allen
(xiv) Bradys Gully Memorial Park.
(Situated on Henry Parry Drive near the North Gosford Private
Hospital).
During his 1996-97 Presidential year, Peter Turnbull decided to
adopt a plan put forward some years earlier by Gosford City
Council to convert the derelict cemetery in Bradys Gully to a
Pioneer Memorial Park. President Peter felt that a ‘hands on’
project was needed and many members had expressed the need for
the club to be involved in a major project.
Council had allocated funds of $4,650 for this park, but it was
obvious that more money was needed.
Representations were made to Gosford City Council for additional
funding and to the Federal Government for a grant to employ
young unemployed people in a ‘work for the dole’ type project.
We were successful in obtaining an additional allocation of $10,000
from Council and Federal funding for the employment of 12 young
people and so the project started in September, 1996. The chairman of the committee for the park project was
PP Terry Gibson, with committee members, Dennis Allen, Ron Hincksman, John Sawtell, Kevin Winterbottom,
PPs Bert Hunter, Jim Kirkness and Mick Whalan.
The 12 young people were employed under the Landcare and Environment Action Program (L.E.A.P.)— 7
ultimately graduated on 13th March, 1996.
26
Kincumber Lodge Ladscaping – Kevin Ransley, Bert Hunter,
Peter Turnbull, Jim Kirkness

Many local citizens and firms contributed labour and materials and the club members also provided strong
support for this project.
Future plans envisage a Memorial Pavilion, three ornamental entry archways, seating, lighting and a barbecue.
The Club and the City Council have been talking to the NSW Department of Education about acquisition of the
rest of the land in this area, but, it appears unlikely that this will come about because the Department of Education
has plans for their own use of the land.
The development of a derelict cemetery into a Rest Park and Garden to recognise our pioneers with respect was
officially opened on 1st June, 1997, by the City Mayor, Alderman Tony Sansom with over 300 people in
attendance.
3. AUSTRALIA DAY
On the 26th January, 1993, the Club celebrated Australia Day with a simple function at the home of John
Flakelar at Mangrove Mountain. The ceremony comprised the gathering of members and friends at 8.00 am
precisely, a brief address on “what Australia Day means to me” by a speaker, the raising of the Australian flag
with a “ feu de joie”, and toasting the flag with port. The short ceremony was followed by breakfast. The speaker
for the first ceremony was PP Terry Devine.
The order of ceremony had been developed by John Flakelar’s brother, Barrie, and was introduced to the club
by John Flakelar.
At the District Assembly held at Kurrajong in 1993, club members carried out the ceremony for all representatives
of the District. Similar ceremonies have followed throughout the District from this time.
In 1994 the venue was Henry Kendall Cottage grounds. PP Russell Cox, as Town Crier, assisted by his wife
Gloria (each dressed in period costume) started the ceremony at exactly 8.00am with the assembly singing
Advance Australia Fair. PP Mick Whalan read the historical background and toasted “Australia”. Tom Cowper,
the younger son of Rotarian John Cowper and Kate, spoke about “what Australia means to me”. PP Kevin and
Nancye Booth recited “My Country”. Lynn and Valerie Dornan’s children, Thea and Mary Ellen, planted a tree.
After a silent prayer, Kevin Booth read a “Prayer for Australia”.
We were honoured on this occasion to have District Governor Graham Goodfellow and wife Joy with us,
together with Dr Maureen Golston Morris, who is an expert on Governor Phillip.
We were joined by members of the Brisbane Water Historical Society for entertainment by Bruce Walker and
his daughter with her horses. During the Australia
Day breakfast, Bruce, who is a Bush Poet and
timber-getter, recited a selection of his poems.
This was a great day for club fellowship and
celebration of Australia Day.
In 1995 the club celebrated the day with the same
ceremony and a club breakfast with special
activities again at Henry Kendall Cottage in West
Gosford. The speaker on this occasion was Linda
Angledal, the daughter of Rotarian Sven Angledal
and Margareth. A tree was planted to commemorate
the occasion.
In 1996, a formal ceremony was held at Old
Sydney Town, when Gosford, Wahroonga and
Kariong-Somersby Clubs combined to celebrate
on Australia Day. PP Bert Hunter acted as Town
Crier for this function.
In 1997, at the request of the Gosford City Council, the landing of Governor Phillip and his party was re-enacted
at the Gosford waterfront followed by a flag raising and reading of the Governor’s Commission. This day was
organised by PP Frank Cross. Governor Phillip was Lynn Dornan, his aide was Warren Hoskings, the colony’s
Chaplain was John Pratt, the Judge Advocate, Lieutenant Colonel David Collins, was Terry Devine, town criers
were Bert Hunter, Kevin Shumack and Alan Seberry, Officer-in-Charge of Marines was John Phillips. Ettalong
Surf Club rowed the official party and the marines ashore at the old Aquatic Club. We were also assisted by the
Light Horse, the Naval Cadets and the Muzzle Loaders Association, who fired two muzzle loaded cannons.
The re-enactment was repeated in 1998 with slight variations of personnel. The Chaplain was Colin Sheumack,
the town criers were Bert Hunter and Alan Seberry. Terrigal Surf Club provided the transport and we thank the
Naval Cadets and the Muzzle Loaders Association for their continued support.
27
Australia Day 1998 – Terry Devine, Colin Sheumack,
Lynn Dornan, Warren Hosking, drummer

4. L.J.McCARTHY COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
This Award was introduced in 1991-92 by the then Vocational Service Director, John Flakelar, to recognise
members of the community who had provided outstanding Community Service over a long period of time.
PP Jim Kirkness PHF (Joint award winner in 1992-93) is the only club member to be given this prestigious
award.
1991-92 Les Graham (Jnr) 1992-93 Barry Margin and Jim Kirkness
1993-94 Peter Robson 1994-95 Barry Cohen
1995-96 Neville Boyce 1996-97 Tudor Davies
1997-98 Dr Brian Shaw
5. ‘A NIGHT IN VIENNA’
On the 16th April, 1997, about 550 people attended a performance of the Gosford City Orchestra combined with
members of the Gosford Youth Orchestra, with guest artists and dancers at the Central Coast Leagues Club. This
evening was organised by the combined Rotary Clubs of the Central Coast with the Rotary Club of Gosford left
to sell tickets and to encourage people to attend.
This came about after a request to our club from Tudor Davies, the dedicated Programme Director of the Gosford
Youth Orchestra — President Peter Turnbull and Alan Seberry organised the sale of tickets while PP Kevin
Booth was stage manager.
The support of the Youth Orchestra continues the start made in 1993 when PDG Neville Chambers asked for
Rotary Clubs of the Central Coast to get behind the newly formed Youth Orchestra.
Tudor Davies was awarded the L.J. McCarthy Community Service Award on this evening for his long and
effective involvement with the Orchestra.
6. PROBUS
Probus is an organisation for retired persons, who meet fortnightly without pressure, with little cost and in
circumstances which provide new interests and new friends.. One meeting is an informal ‘get together’, usually
for morning tea with a Guest Speaker. The other meeting often involves a bus trip or some other excursion of
interest. Some clubs also gather for more extensive trips on occasions. These clubs have grown in numbers and
the interest is great among the senior members of our community.
The Probus Club of Hunters Hill was the first club formed in Australia. It was set up by PP Peter Germann of
the Rotary Club of Hunters Hill on the 6th November, 1975. Peter, at that time, was chairman of a sub-committee
set up to look at the establishment of Probus in Australia. Probus started in 1971 at Helensburgh in Scotland
under the auspices of the Rotary Club of Dumbarton.The Probus numbers at the end of 1994 were in excess of
150,000 in about 1800 clubs in Australia and New Zealand.
The first Probus Club on the Central Coast was formed by Bob Leicester of the Rotary Club of West Gosford in
1978. The Probus Club of Gosford was formed by the Rotary Club of Gosford on the 24th April, 1980.
Community Service Director Vern Arbie chaired the formation meeting. This was during the Presidential year
of Bert Hunter and the Probus Club of Gosford was the 19th Probus Club in the South Pacific.
Former Rotarian Roy Dibben worked hard to form the Probus Club of Gosford South of which he became the
inaugural President. The then Club President John Pratt presented Roy with his collar of office during the
year 1986.
7. JOHN LEDDY
In July, 1983, PP John Williams initiated a project for ‘The Study of the
Changing Role of Administering Rehabilitation Facilities for Adult Intellectually
Handicapped People.’ An application for a grant for the Administrator of
Fairhaven Centre, John Leddy, to travel in the USA, UK and Canada, was
forwarded to the Rotary Foundation. He was to investigate issues for the
integration of intellectually retarded adults into the wider community.
John left in September, 1983. He visited programmes of renown and was hosted
by 10 Rotary Clubs and individual member families throughout the four month
tour. At that time John lived at Bensville with his wife Christine and two
children, Ronnie (11 years) and Patricia (13 years). He became active in
providing services for the intellectually handicapped after learning that his son,
Ronnie, had a disability. Earlier John worked as a stockmarket analyst in the late
1960’s and the early 1970’s. He moved to the Central Coast and worked as a
Records Manager for the County Council.John spoke to the Club on the 12th
January, 1984.
28
John Leddy–Rotary Club of Gosford
Scholarship 1983-83. District 9680
Vocational Excellence Awardee 1986-87

On his return with the support of those with whom he had studied, a unique training programme was established
which completely challenged the accepted limitation of people with moderate and severe disabilities to perform
highly complex tasks.
Within 12 months, some 25 significantly disabled people had undergone intensive “one-to-one” training, and
had won a contract to manually assemble printed circuit boards for a major manufacturer of computers. The
programme was nationally (and then internationally) recognised, and became a demonstration model and
resource base for the dissemination of the training methodology acquired during the study tour.
Some comments by John Leddy...
“The training sessions were intensely satisfying, and, became a mutual voyage of discovery between trainer and
learner, whilst endeavouring to extend beyond the previously understood limitations of the individuals concerned.
At its most intense level, the trainer often became the learner and in so doing acquired an enormous respect for
the true, and as yet, untapped skills of the person. More importantly, there evolved a deep understanding of the
associated human benefits as new levels of achievement were reached by the disabled person...”
He further commented, “ I believe that the Rotary Club of Gosford’s sponsorship of my overseas visit was the
greatest investment that could possibly be made to Fairhaven. This trip has provided the stimulus to promote
tremendous change in the centre, in other similar centres and within the community as a whole.”
Fairhaven is a voluntary organisation. It is an Activity Therapy Centre designed to provide intellectually
handicapped adults with training in Independent Living Skills and Vocational Training. Although Fairhaven was
regarded as one of the most advanced centres of its kind in Australia, John believed it was about five years
behind developments in the United States.
John had been overcome with the hospitality of Rotarians wherever he went. He thanked the then President Lynn
Dornan and his wife, Valerie for their great help and also special thanks to PP John Williams for his tremendous
contribution.
PDG Geoff Grenfell commented recently that as a result of our club’s involvement with John Leddy, Gosford
now has three disabled facilities which are the best in Australia.
8. APEX CLUB OF GOSFORD.
During 1952 , President Tom Arkins with the assistance of Neville Wallwork, encouraged the Apex Club of
Newcastle to investigate the formation of an Apex Club in Gosford.
As a result of this the Apex Club of Gosford was formed in 1953.
29

VOCATIONAL SERVICE PROJECTS
Pride of Workmanship Awards 1984-85
RotarianVern Arbie, President Malcolm Brooks, Awardees – Jan Crowe, Mike Whitney,
Sue Mattley, Wendy McCormick & Vocational Director Neil Everson
30
1. PRIDE OF WORkMANSHIP
AWARDS
Awarded to members of the community
who exhibit work skills, ethics and
endeavour above and beyond the ‘call of
duty’.
1976-77 John Babbage, Edward
Brenton, John Cleverly, Robert de Haas,
Ralph Lyons, Kathleen Miller, Tony
O’Farrell, John Osgood, Neil Pickett,
Barry Robertson, Ann Tindall.
1984-85 Jan Crowe, Mike Whitney,
Sue Mattley, Wendy McCormack.
1986-87 Elizabeth Turnbull,
Stephen Cox, John Kerr
1987-88 Alan Matheson, Kevin Collins, Raymond Clancy, Stewart Byrnes.
1988-89 Sandra Stowe, John Witherall, Norman Schofield, Roland Brown.
1989-90 Julie Witchard, Rosemary Kennedy, Nola Gallagher, V.J.Ward, Linda Lawless, Janet Top.
1990-91 Ted and Isobel Williams, Darryl Fry, John Herrick, Dianne Parks, Beverley Dudman, Stan Brown.
1991-92 Sandra Anderson, Meredith Wallace, Frances Wasson, Fred Mayer, Peter Gock, Karen Cox.
1992-93 Frances Vrolks, Marilyn Kineally, Robert Nolan.
1993-94 Chris Garrett, Rev Jenny Willsher, Peter Murphy, David Booth.
1994-95 Jeremy Smith, Carol Hogan, Mark Donaldson.
1995-96 Corinne Howell, Philip and Diane Lockhart, Nigel Dewhurst, Warren Boler.
1996-97 Julie Jessop, Anne Bryant, Don Strofield, Peter Starr
1997-98 Christine McKenzie
2. VOCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS IN DISTRICT 9680
This program was initiated in 1982 as a result of the combined inspirations of DG Graham Turnidge and the then
District Vocational Service Advisor, Geoff Grenfell who was charged with setting up the award and the selection
of the first awardees.
The aims are (i) To recognise Vocational Excellence of the highest order.
(ii) To inspire further enthusiasm and to give added reward to the achiever.
(iii)To set an example to others, particularly youth, of the need to pursue and strive for Vocational
Excellence to the benefit of their associates and the community in general.
Amongst the criteria for selection are:- non-Rotarian, living and/or working in District 9680, with a proven
record of pursuing vocational excellence. Three awards are given each year.
Recipients receive a gold medallion and a lapel pin showing a hand stretching towards the stars and a citation.
Amongst the first recipients was George Taylor BEM of Burbank Nursery. One of the awardees in 1986-87 was
John Leddy of Fairhaven. (other winners include; Dr Earl Owen, Dame Leone Kramer, Dr John Yeo, Dr Victor
Chang, Mr Don Burrows, Tom Keneally, Ken Done.)
3. CAREERS MARkET
The first careers night was held in conjunction with East Gosford Rotary and was attended by 1,000 students
and parents, during 1967-68, in the year of President Ron Sky. The night was organised by Jim Kirkness, Keith
Bolton and Bob Potts, the venue was Erina High School, with 108 occupations present.
Jim Kirkness also organised an apprenticeship night which was held in the Leagues Club and was attended by
200 young people.
After this time the night was organised by East Gosford Rotary, but slowly declined in interest, until 1974, when
the President Jim Kirkness, Vocational Director Laurie Reid and the Vocational Director from East Gosford
Rotary enlisted the assistance of Angela Glover (Careers Adviser) from Henry Kendall High School and the
Careers Market came into being.
This has grown and developed under the leadership of Angela Glover over the years with the untiring physical
and financial support of the Rotary clubs of the Central coast.
The Central Coast Careers Market is the biggest activity of its kind in New South Wales and possibly the largest
careers market in Australia.

INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS
1. TRI-SISTER CLUBS AGREEMENT—-AUSTRALIA/JAPAN /NEW ZEALAND
GOSFORD, OSAkA NORTH WEST AND CHRISTCHURCH NORTH.
The Tri-Sister Scheme had its start following a visit by Eric and Kate Reynolds to the Rotary Club of Christchurch
North. That club wrote to our Gosford Club inviting us to join in a Tri-Sister Scheme with them and the Rotary
Club of Osaka Northwest. They proposed a combined visit by the members of Christchurch North and Gosford
Clubs to Osaka.
Bernie and Rita O’Donoghue went and signed an agreement at a formal dinner in Osaka in May 1982 bringing
the Tri-Sister Scheme into being. Bernie continued as chairman of the committee for a number of years.
1982-83 Bernie and Rita O’Donoghue with John and Bettina Williams made an official visit to the Rotary
Club of Christchurch North.
1983-84 contact was maintained with the two clubs. In 1984-85 Osaka NW Rotarians visited. This was
followed by a further visit from Osaka NW in 1986-87.
Youth exchange occurred...Kazuyo Kubo and Emiko Nishino exchanged with David Treston and
Mandy Reynolds.
1988 there was a visit by Gosford Rotarians to Osaka Northwest, Japan.
1989-90 we were visited by Christchurch North Rotarians —there was a return visit by some Gosford
Rotarians and another Youth Exchange occurred...Ikuyo Uedo and Hiro Fujii exchanged with
Sally Trimmer and Andrew Adams.
1990-91 we were visited by two more young people from Osaka NW—-Takeshi Shinkawa and Yoko
Nichino. The following year, 1991-92, there was another exchange—Naota Sakai and Ikuko
Miyamoto with Darren Pye and Katharina Graf.
1992-93 was the tenth anniversary of the start of the Tri-Sister Scheme and we were honoured by a visit
by Rotarians from Osaka NW and Christchurch North. A special dinner was held at the Holiday
Inn Crowne Plaza Hotel at Terrigal. A meeting was held to update and confirm the relationship.
1993-94 saw another exchange between Chika Motobayashi and Kazuhiko Shiozaki with Linda Angledal
and Michael Mills.
A donation of $5000 was received from Osaka NW for the disastrous bushfires which ravaged
the Central Coast in January,1994. This was combined with a $1,000 donation from the Rotary
Club of Rockhampton Sunrise to provide a small camper/trailer for the Gosford St John’s
Ambulance to use in the field during emergencies and other events. This mobile facility has
already been used extensively by the St John’s Ambulance.
1994-95 saw a brief visit by the president of the Rotary Club of Christchurch North.
Gosford forwarded $1000 to the Osaka Earthquake Appeal.... a number of our Japanese Rotary
friends were affected by the great earthquake which devastated Osaka and surrounds.
1996-97 further exchange occurred... Kanaka Nishiyama and Miyuki Hamano with Sarah Wright and Jay
Thorogood.
1998 latest visit occurred on 21st-23rd January when a group of Rotarians/their wives and families
from Osaka Northwest were entertained by the Club with tours, a dinner and golf.
2. FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGE
One of the most exciting and pleasant developments from Gosford Rotary in recent years has been the notion of
‘Friendship Exchange’.
This concept was conceived by a former club member, Bill Johnston early in 1988. Bill had originally visited a
cousin in Somerset during World War 2. The cousin was PDG John Lane from the Rotary Club of Mendip in
Cheddar. Malcolm Brooks and Neville Wallwork and wives visited the Mendip Club and met with John Lane in
late 1988. Following this visit, Malcolm was appointed Chairman of a Committee to organise a ‘Friendship
Visit’ for Rotarians and wives from the Mendip area to the Central Coast for February/March 1989. The visit for
a fortnight was a great success.
In May, 1990, 24 Gosford Rotarians and their wives flew to England for the return visit— this was a tremendous
visit of two weeks and was followed by a tour of Europe under the guidance of Chairman Malcolm Brooks.
The English Clubs involved were the Rotary Clubs of Mendip, Wells, Weston-Super-Mare, Wrington Vale and
Woodspring.
In February, 1992, 26 Rotarians and wives from the Mendip Area visited us again for one week.
In March, 1993, 26 Rotarians and wives from the Rotary Club of Sun Lakes, Phoenix, Arizona, USA visited us
for 8 days.
The return visit for 14 Gosford Rotarians and wives occurred in September/October 1993. This was combined
31

with a spectacular tour of Canada and the United States, visiting many National Parks, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas
and Hawaii.
May, 1995, saw a visit from 12 Rotarians and wives from Bombay, India. We were very happy to host our Rotary
friends for 1 week.
Our most recent ‘Friendship Exchange’ occurred during May/June, 1996, when 12 Rotarians and wives travelled
to the Rotary Club of Duncan on Vancouver Island for 4 days, and, for a 3 day visit to the Rotary Club of Banff,
Alberta, Canada. The group also attended the Rotary International Conference in Calgary.
Once again under the leadership of PP Malcolm Brooks the group travelled through Canada and the US.
In June,1998, another return visit to Mendip, Somerset, UK. for 12 Rotarians and partners has been arranged by
PP Malcolm Brooks. The trip will also include Ireland, Scandinavia and Europe.
3. “FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE”
The seeds for this scheme were sown in October, 1983, when Past President/Past District Governor Geoff
Grenfell was the team leader of a Group Study Exchange team to Switzerland. Discussion during this exchange
subconsciously affected Geoff’s thinking about international peace and goodwill.
In 1991 when the “Berlin Wall came down “ and the “Iron Curtain went up” , the opportunity arose to spread
Rotary into these countries. In 1992, when Geoff became District Governor Nominee he started to formulate his
plans.
In July, 1995, PP Lynn Dornan of the Rotary Club of Gosford and the (then) DGN Alex Sawyer of Rotary Club
of Ryde were awarded the Carl P Miller Discovery Grant to look into establishing a relationship with the people
of Far Eastern Russia to arrange a visit of selected young business men and women to Rotary District 9680 to
study their vocations and to experience the Free Market Economy with particular emphasis on the relatively
friendly attitude of Australians. The two Rotarians visited Vladivostok in September, 1995.
(The Carl P Miller Discovery Grant is made to assist Rotarians in determining the feasability of a proposed
international service project.)
Permission was needed from DG Jack Randolf of D5010, Anchorage, Alaska, whose District includes Far
Eastern Russia, and efforts were concentrated to develop the provisional Rotary Club of Vladivostok.
The (then) District Governor Geoff Grenfell joined Past President Lynn Dornan and attended the Peace Forum
in Anchorage to cement relationships with Russian delegates and officials of D5010.
Lynn was greatly commended for his leadership, inspiration, dedication, empathy, compassion and Rotary
knowledge and ideals.
Achievements to date...visit by 8 Russian business people,
—first Russian Youth Exchange student, Oksana Borbot,
—first Australian Youth Exchange student to Vladivostok, Samuel Elyard,
—return visit by PP Ian Dyball to Russia,
—provision of humanitarian aid to an orphanage and oncology ward,
—hosting a visit of a child for spinal operation in Sydney with her mother ,
—visit by Russian Rotary representatives to District Conference in March, 1996,
—visit by two Rotaractors to District 9680 (Dima Mudov and Liza Lavrushina),
—the sponsorship of a paediatrician, Dr Tamara Kovdeeva, on an eight month study programme at the
new Westmead Children’s Hospital in oncology during the 1997-98 Rotary year.
Proposed...to send 5 Rotarians to D5010 Assembly and President Elect seminar,
— to develop cultural exchanges with Far East Russia.
PDG Geoff Grenfell states that the Discovery Grant has already been a huge success ...From Russia With Love
was his dream... the ‘impossible dream’.
In February, 1998, PP Lynn Dornan and PP/PDG Geoff Grenfell attended a “Rotary in Russia” workshop/
seminar in Denver, Colorado, sponsored by the three Districts surrounding that area to participate in and advise
on the success of our programme.
4. FAIM (FOURTH AVENUE IN MOTION)
Fourth Avenue In Motion (FAIM) is an activity of Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) under
which Rotarians and volunteers serve in developing countries as training teams (and workers) on construction
projects.
In 1982-83, ten members organised by Alan Swan travelled to PNG and the Solomons. The first party comprised
Milton Frazer, Roy Dibben and non-club member Ron Thompson (a builder). They went to the Solomon
Islands.— the second group was made up of Alan Swan, Bert Hunter, Bill Johnston, Ken Herd, Jim Secomb and
non-club members Ken Austin, Jim Flint (the Rotary Club of Terrigal). They worked at Rugli, near Mt Hagen
in PNG.
In 1985-86 Jim Smith worked at Manus Island. Russell Cox, John Phillips and Jim Lawson (with Chris and
32

Kristine Scott) were part of a FAIM team to Tonu, in Bougainville. Chris Scott has recently joined our Club.
Our latest visit for FAIM was to Kokoda by Mick Whalan and Alan Seberry (with Denis McCarthy- a builder) in 1994-95.
All of these FAIM visits involved construction of school rooms, cottages, hospital wards or aid stations.
5. THE ROTARY/RSL kOkODA MEMORIAL PROJECTS.
This has been a great project; one of the largest and highest profile International Service Scheme undertaken by Rotary in
Australia. The relationships which have developed between so many Rotarians and villagers have been a truly remarkable
and outstanding expression of Rotary in action— International goodwill and service of the highest standard and
significance.
Importantly, the Australian Government has recognised that Rotary has skills and capacities in such projects that do not exist
elsewhere in the community.
The seeds of this scheme were sown in 1991, when the Rotary Club of Hunters Hill put forward a proposal to rebuild the
Health Centre at Kokoda.
However, it was not until November, 1992, that the project really got going when Geoff Grenfell and John Phillips (from
the Rotary Club of Gosford) were able to have a District 9680 Committee set up under the auspices of the Eastern Region
of FAIM.
In the entrance to Kokoda Memorial Hospital – Opening Day 15/9/95
Presentations to Benjamin Ijumi & Eric Goldswain. Photograph shows Paramount Chief of Kokoda,
Benjamon Ijumi, Eric Goldswain (Gosford RC), Ross Humphries & PP John Phillips (Gosford RC).
33
The proposal now was for a Health Sub
Centre, 5 Aid Posts, and the Kokoda Health
Centre.
John Phillips met with PNG officials at
Popondetta late in 1992, and recommended
that the project go ahead, linking with the
RSL in the funding appeal and that the
whole project be dedicated as a living
memorial to the Australian Diggers and the
Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels who fought and died
in the Kokoda Campaign (as well as the
battles at Gona, Buna and Sanananda).
Progress was slow in 1993, but eventually
the project was endorsed by the RSL, after
strong publicity by John Phillips. The first
Aid Post was built at Waju in 1994.
Anzac Day, 1994 was enhanced by the
presence of two Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels, one
of whom was the famous Raphael Oembari
OBE, who, in the well known photograph
is seen helping the wounded Private George
Whittington in 1942.The visitors participated in National advertising for the Kokoda Project.
The Federal Government honoured a pledge made during the “Australia Remembers” Year of 1994/95 and funded the
Kokoda Health Centre and some other works, including a new museum and trekker accommodation.
500 volunteers have worked on the Kokoda Hospital of 24 beds and the five Aid Posts at Waju, Buna (3/95), Sairupe (9/95),
Kebara (5/96), Hanau (8/96)—and are currently repairing the Aid post at Gona. It is planned to build another two Posts at
Asafa, and Bagoh.
Approximately $2.3 million will have been spent on the project when it is completed.
Each facility was opened with much pomp and ceremony...the Kokoda Memorial Hospital was opened jointly by the
Australian Prime Minister, Mr Paul Keating and the Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, Sir Julius Chan.
Awards to two members.
During this opening the Prime Minister, Mr Paul Keating was honoured, but of great significance to Gosford Rotary was
the honouring of one of our members, Eric Goldswain, who has been a major supporter and sponsor of the project from
the beginning.
On this auspicious occasion Eric was presented with a ceremonial stone club and a .303 bayonet plaque to commemorate
his service with the 2/1st Infantry Battalion during the Kokoda Campaign.
PP John Phillips has been honoured for his outstanding and tireless effort in this project by being awarded an OAM in
1997.
At the 1998 District 9680 Conference in Canberra, PP John Phillips was presented with the Service Above Self Award by
the Governor General.
This award, the highest honour for individual Rotarians and one of only 150 made each year worldwide, recognises
outstanding humanitarian service, with an emphasis on personal volunteer efforts and active involvement in helping

others through Rotary. John earned this award for his tireless efforts on the Rotary/RSL Kokoda Memorial Project in Papua
New Guinea building aid posts and other facilities for the local community.
6. Medical Aid for Indonesian Boy—Rendra Wirawan
During Julie Turnbull’s visit as a Youth Exchange Student to Surabaya (East Java) in 1979-80 in Indonesia a request came
for “open heart’ surgery for a young 9 year old boy from that area. The Rotary Club of Gosford sought the help of all the
Clubs in District 968 to bring the boy to Sydney for the operation.
The boy and his mother arrived on 10th December, 1979 and admitted to Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children at
Camperdown. Sadly the boy’s condition was such that the operation was not possible and he had to return to Indonesia, but
the visit attracted considerable publicity for Rotary.
Peter and Arlene Turnbull provided accommodation and transport while he was in Sydney.
The original request for funds from the District Clubs was $55 from each of the 46 Clubs.
This occurred during 1979-80, the year of President Bert Hunter.
1979-80 Indonesian boy – Rendra Wirawan with his mum & Peter Turnbull
34

1. AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLARS
ROTARY FOUNDATION PROJECTS.
This is a Rotary Foundation programme which sponsors selected academics to study at an overseas educational
institution for varying lengths of time — for each of our scholars the time involved was for one academic year,
usually about nine months. They are expected to act as unofficial ambassadors of goodwill”.
1974-75 David Bradbury studying broadcast journalism at West Virginia University
1988-89 Dr Dominic Dwyer to the Pasteur Institute in Paris to study infectious diseases.
1992-93 Kara Coates from USA hosted by Gosford Rotary Club while she attended Macquarie
University. She studied Environmental Science.
(i) David Bradbury— Ambassadorial Scholar
David Bradbury was a Foundation Scholar (now
called an Ambassadorial Scholar), sponsored by
the Rotary Club of Gosford to study broadcast
journalism at West Virginia University in 1974-
75.
He had been the Dux and School Captain of Erina
High School and had represented NSW in
Schoolboy Rugby League. He studied Politics and
History at the Australian National University.
He is now 46 and lives at Wilsons Creek in the
high country behind Mullumbimby with his
longtime partner and three children.
He has made 18 films and documentaries and has
established himself as one of the outstanding
documentary makers in Australia. He has been
nominated for two Academy Awards and his films
have been shown all over the world.
Many of his documentaries are based on social justice violations...Frontline (war correspondents in the Vietnam
War), Nicaragua: No Pasaram (the CIA and the Sandinistas), Chile: Hasta Cuando (the Pinochet regime), The
Battle of Byron (campaign against development on the North Coast). He has also proposed documentaries on
Wik and the Jabiluka mining dispute.
Dr Dominic Dwyer –
Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial
Scholar 1988-89
courtesy of Club Bulletin
(ii) Dr Dominic Dwyer
In September, 1987, PP Lynn Dornan gave some exciting news to the Club about the
proposed sponsorship of Dr Dominic Dwyer who would be leaving in July, 1988, to
study AIDS with Professor Luc Montagnier’s team at the Pasteur Institute in Paris. This
was the team which had isolated the AIDS virus. Lynn was to act as Dr Dwyer’s
adviser. On November 26, 1987, Dr Dominic Dwyer spoke to the Club about his
coming study in Paris.
Dominic was aged 32 and born in Sydney. He was sponsored by the Rotary Club of
Gosford for a Rotary Foundation Award. He is married to Megan. His secondary
schooling was at St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill, (a catholic boarding school in
Sydney).
He graduated in Medicine from the University of New South Wales in 1979. His
training at that time was as a consultant physician, specialising in infectious diseases at
a major university hospital in the Western Suburbs. His particular career interests were
epidemiology and molecular biology of viral infections, tropical medicine and the
health and social problems of Indochinese refugees.
At that time he was enrolled part-time in a Master of Arts course at the University of
New South Wales specialising in Asian History.
His interests include long distance running, surfing, snow skiing, rugby union and cricket.
He has travelled widely in South-East Asia and Europe.
On his return, Dominic spoke to the District Conference in 1991, and addressed our Club on 21st March, 1991.
Recent correspondence from Dr Dominic Dwyer... (August 1997) ...
“In 1987, I was awarded a Rotary International Vocational Scholarship to undertake a study programme at the
Institute Pasteur, Paris, France. This enabled me to spend one year (later extended to two years) learning new
molecular and virological techniques relevant to the study of the human immunodeficiency (HIV), the cause of
35
German Youth Exchange Student Anna Weber with Ambassadorial
Scholar 1974, David Bradbury

AIDS. This work was undertaken in the laboratory of Professor Luc Montagnier, leader of the French team that
first discovered HIV. This laboratory employed approximately 40 people (many from overseas) whose research
efforts were devoted to fully characterising the newly discovered HIV.
The Institute Pasteur was a very large facility with an international reputation based on research into molecular
biology, microbiology, virology and immunology. Eight Nobel Prize winners have worked at the Institute in
Paris. It is the major hub of a network of approximately 25 other Institute Pasteur laboratories located in various
locations (usually countries with strong links to France) around the world.
During my study at the Institute Pasteur, I worked to develop molecular techniques allowing close study of HIV-
1, HIV-2, and the simian counterpart of HIV. This included analysing the presence of HIV in brain tissue to better
understand the dementia associated with HIV, and the biological characterisation of virulent simian
immunodeficiency viruses. Some of these techniques, although novel at the time, have now entered general
research and diagnostic medicine.
Upon my return to Australia, I continued my studies in virology, including the application of the techniques
learned at the Institute Pasteur to HIV research in Australia. A particular interest has been the use of molecular
techniques to characterise different strains of HIV present in Australia, and to monitor the importation of unusual
HIV strains in Australia. Similar techniques have been applied to the investigation of epidemiologically linked
cohorts of HIV infection, including study of HIV transmission in a surgeon’s office, and the outbreak of HIV in
prison.
A number of publications have arisen from these studies. The techniques have been applied to other viral
diseases including the Australian arboviruses of significant public health importance, and enteroviruses (viruses
responsible for outbreaks of meningitis).
Following completion of my training, I was employed as a Specialist in Infectious Diseases at Westmead, and
more recently as a Medical Virologist. There are very few clinical virologists in Australia, but clinical virology
is becoming most important with the emergence of new viral diseases in Australia and elsewhere, with
improvements in diagnostic technology and with new antiviral drugs coming onto the market.”
2. GROUP STUDY EXCHANGE.
This is a Rotary Foundation educational activity designed to provide outstanding young business and professional
persons opportunities to study another country, its people and its institutions. This activity has been supported
by Rotary International since 1965 — prior to that, the scheme was known as Rota. It is hoped that further
international understanding and friendship will be developed by the group.
The make-up of the team has changed over the years. Originally, the team comprised a Rotarian Team Leader
with six young business and professional men (25-35 years). Later the team size was reduced to five, and now
is made-up of four young men and/or women (25-40 years). With Rotary International approval, two Rotary
districts in different parts of the world agree to exchange teams, usually in successive years.
The club has provided two leaders for GSE teams....PP/PDG Geoff Grenfell was leader of the team to Switzerland
(District 198) in 1983-84, and, PP Lynn Dornan led a team to India (District 308) in 1986-87.
PP/PDG Geoff Grenfell’s team comprised Len Nixon (Secondary School Teacher), Phillip Leslie (Solicitor),
Peter Bromley (Regional Manager-Building Society) our Club nominee, Les Nunn (Businessman)—Vietnam
Veteran—recently deceased, Phillip Stanton (Architect), David Chin (reserve—Businessman)
GSE team members—-Chris Hartcher (South Africa) 1976.Chris now represents Gosford in the NSW
Parliament.
Gary Holden (Brazil-reserve) 1981.
Keith Dedden (Sweden) 1979. Keith is Past President of our Club.
Peter Bromley (Switzerland) 1982.
Scott Parry-Jones (Japan) 1985.
Brian Freeman (USA) 1974.
Jo Meier (South Africa) 1992.
Michelle Swinden (Italy) 1995.
36

YOUTH PROJECTS.
1. YOUTH EXCHANGE PROGRAMME.
This is a Rotary International programme for school age students to engage in study or travel abroad for one
academic year or less for the purpose of advancing international understanding and goodwill. Students are
sponsored by Rotary Clubs in their home country, selected by their home District and hosted by three or four
Rotary families in the host country.
In Out
1972-73 Yukiko Taketomi (Japan)
1973-74 Paula Limongan(Indonesia)
1974-75 Motoe Tamagawa(Japan)
1975-76 Leone Griffiths (Japan)
1978-79 Karen Olsen (Denmark)
1979-80 T Gray (USA) Julie Turnbull (Indonesia)
1980-81 A student from Indonesia Lyndon Arbie (USA)
1981-82 Carole Nicholson(South Africa) Cathy Maher (USA)
1982-83 Michael Frugneit(Denmark)
1983-84 Jorn Benn (Germany) David Singh (USA)
1985-86 Klas Andersen (Sweden) Natalie Lovett(Japan)
1986-87 Stephen Vestergard-Jensen(Denmark) Narelle Jeffries (Indonesia)
1987-88 Kara Bailey (Denmark)
1988-89 Jeannette Kellogg (Canada)
1991-92 Emma Dowman(England)
1992-93 Nola Hocking(England)
1993-94 Shellie Carr (Germany)
1995-96 Oksana Borbot (Russia)*
1996-97 Kevin Carey (USA) Jared Olive (Turkey)
1997-98 Anna Weber (Germany) Amber Funnell (Turkey)
37
* Oksana Borbot is the first Youth Exchange
Student ever to come from Russia
(Vladivostok) to Australia.
Oksana Bordot – Youth Exchange Student
from Russia 1995-96
2. ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARDS
The RYLA programme is a District project involving young people and Rotarians. It is aimed at developing
qualities of leadership and good citizenship. It usually involves a residential get together for about a week.
The concept started in Queensland in 1957 to celebrate the State’s centenary. In 1960 District 260 started a
RYLA programme involving a one week camp. In 1969, District 268 introduced a RYLA programme at
Narrabeen National Fitness Camp. It catered for 116 candidates from 46 Clubs.
1972 saw a change of venue to Vision Valley Wesley Conference Centre.

The first involvement of the Rotary Club of Gosford was in 1970.
1970-71 Yvonne Randall, David Clarke, Denis Musgrove
1972-73 Marilyn Thurling, Paul Young
1973-74 Bronwyn Colditz, Margaret Babbage
1974-75 Elizabeth Brooker, Jennifer Porter
1976-77 Anne Hearn, June Marshall, Glenn Thurling
1981-82 Karen Eagle, Michael Huxley
1982-83 Sharynne Lamont, Gregory Smith
1983-84 Alison McKenzie, Alan Davidson
1984-85 Therese Mortenson, Stephanie Devine
1985-86 Catherine Minter, Trevor Hartshorn
1986-87 Therese Smith, Kate Lawson
1987-88 Annette Giblett, Stephen Marshall
1989-90 Peter Singh, Jim Katrakilis
1991-92 Anita Small, Craig Brown
1992-93 Fiona Drielsma, Nathan Fabian
1993-94 Danielle Kelly, Tim Curtis
1994-95 Sharon Timewell
1995-96 Suzanne Burling, Shane Holmes
1996-97 Rochelle Starr, Daniel Stafford-Smith
1997-98 Andrew Smith
3. PEER SUPPORT
Peer Support is a programme designed to have senior students (about Year 11) work through a set course on a
once per week basis with Year 7 students soon after they enter High School. It is designed to ease the young
students into the high school situation and to give them confidence to resist the temptation of wrong doing during
their school years.
Investigative work on the establishment of a Peer Support Programme at Henry Kendall High School was
carried out during the Presidential year of Malcolm Brooks, 1984-85, by Youth Director Mark Lees and PP John
Phillips.
The Interact Club of Henry Kendall High School had set aside $300 to assist with the setting up of the scheme.
The Rotary Club of Gosford promised $1,000 to help with the cost of training staff and purchasing books etc.
At the end of 1985 in the year of President John Pratt, 225 students from Year 10 and 7 teachers were trained as
leaders and as teacher advisers.
In term 1, 1986, the scheme started under the control of Ann Newman (then teacher in charge of Home Science
at HKHS ).
The scheme was successful and worked well and continues to the present time. Teacher Donna Judd ran the
scheme until recently when it was taken over by Colin Hardwick as teacher in charge.
Rotary Club of Gosford members are still involved during the training session by manning a barbecue each year
to conclude the training .
In 1987, President Peter Treston assisted the Rotary Club of East Gosford in setting up a Peer Support Scheme
at St Edwards College.
4. NATIONAL SCIENCE SUMMER SCHOOL
The National Science Summer School has been sponsored by a number of large companies and our Rotary Club
became involved with the initial local selection of Year 11 students who had shown outstanding potential for
entry into Science based work when they left school. After the first year of our involvement, our Club also
contributed some finance for the student (who had won final selection at District level against the most
outstanding students in the Metropolitan North Education Region.).
Another feature of the Club’s involvement has been the participation of PP Lynn Dornan in the training and
development of interview skills of the Club’s nominees. Bill Hickson was much involved in the selection
process.
All of these students came from Henry Kendall High School. It is interesting that only 15 students are selected
by the District from the 60 High Schools in the region. One student being selected is an outstanding effort for
any school. HKHS had three on one occasion and two in several other years.
38

1983-84 David Bray
1986-87 Ian Negus and Bronwyn Gifford (and Campbell Page who went under the
auspices of another Club because each club could only sponsor two
students.)
1988-89 Michael Rozmanec and Annika Pedersen
1990-91 Tony Barham and Caroline Lapworth
1992-93 Graham Arnott (Engineering School)
Henry Kendall Interact Changeover 1984. I.P.P. Greg Swinden, Interact Co-ordinator PP Jim
Kirkness, President Sheridan Miles, Interact School Co-ordinator Mark Stimpson,
Principal HKHS PP Terry Devine
39
5. INTERACT CLUB OF HENRY
kENDALL HIGH SCHOOL
Interact Clubs have been established by Rotary
and involve school students, mainly in Years 10
and 11. These Clubs operate like a junior Rotary
Club — each year the Interact members must
participate in three major areas— Community
Service, School Service and International
Service.
The Club presented a Memorial Flag Pole to the
School bearing a plaque to remember the passing
of students who died while they were students.
The longest serving Interact Club in this District
is the Interact Club of Henry Kendall High
School. This club was formed, sponsored and
nurtured by the Rotary Club of Gosford since its
beginning. Jim Kirkness has been involved since
the start of the Interact Club.
It was chartered on 22nd May,1975 with 26 members—Carol Thurston was the first teacher /adviser. Since then
the teacher advisers have been... Bill Collier, Mark Stimpson, Neil Hinton, Donna Judd, Russell Trimmer and,
currently, Colin Hardwick.
Presidents:-
1975 Jeremy Weedon 1983 Greg Swinden 1991 Nola Hocking
1976 Linda Weedon 1984 Sheridan Miles 1992 Elizabeth Ternoey
1977 Vicki Oliver 1985 Michelle Dunk 1993 David Hunter
1978 Alan Mills 1986 Tanya Parry 1994 Sarah Sidiropoulos
1979 Sue Minter 1987 Campbell Page 1995 Luke Marquet
1980 Michael Beckley 1988 Jodie Sullivan 1996 Shane Chamings
1981 Andrew Shepherd 1989 Kylie Bevan 1997 Douglas McFarland
1982 Alan Davidson 1990 Adam Rochaix 1998 Shannon Uptin
Interact Club of Henry Kendall High School presents
Memorial Flagpole to the School

6. ROTARACT.
Rotaract is a service club for young people aged between 18 and 28 years.
Rotaract started in North Carolina when the first club was chartered on 13th March, 1968, by the Rotary Club
of North Carolina. Three months later the first club in Australia was chartered at Brisbane West.
PP Ewart Harvey was commissioned by the then President, John Jackson, to look into the formation of a Rotaract
Club in Gosford. An Interest Meeting was held at the home of Jack Clark (the father of PP Bob Clark of the
Rotary Club of North Gosford.) The Rotaract Club of Gosford was chartered by DG Tom Howieson with
President John Jackson officiating on the 18th June, 1970, at the Central Coast Leagues Club, with 200 persons
present.
The Charter Board was President Dennis Musgrove, Secretary Kristine Bradley, Vice/President David Clark,
Treasurer Julie Douglas, Assistant Secretary Lorraine Taylor, Assistant Treasurer Diane Aldrick, Club Service
Director David Clark, International Director Therese Wellfare, Community Service Keith Ramsey, Vocational
Service Chris Scott, Fellowship Phil Bible and Yvonne Randle. (These were elected on 5th May, 1970.)
It will be of interest that Dennis Musgrove, David Clark and Keith Ramsey were called up for National Service...
Phil Bible took over as Community Service Director.
Chris Scott, son of former member (the late) PP Les Scott, was the first former Gosford Rotoractor to join the
Rotary Club of Gosford in 1997-98.
President Number of members
1970 Dennis Musgrove 30
1971 Noel Taylor 36
1972 Kristine Bradley 34
1973 Peter Buttsworth 32
1974 Ross Campbell 38
(PP Ewart Harvey, Les Scott and Ed Dyring—Honorary Rotaractors)
1975 Paul Young 41
1976 Anne Hearne 42
1977 Susan Young 32
1978 Bill Higgins 20
1979 Greg Hitchens 20
1980 Peter Buttsworth/Phil Wickham 16
1981 Phil Wickham 14
1982 Chris Scott 20
1983 Stephen O’Dwyer 19
1984 Greg Boxall 17
1985 Annette Banks 19
1986 Christopher Harris 20
1987 David Knock 20
1988 Mark Gosling 20
1989 Peter Hamilton 20
1990 Tonia Harrison 14
The Club went into great decline in the next 5 years. One Rotarian believes this decline was accentuated by
Rotary International’s decision that it was no longer compulsory for a Rotarian to attend Rotaract meetings.
1991 Jim Katrakilis
1992 Russell Madgwick
1993 Andrew Shead
1994 Edwina Gilder
1995 Pamela Tritton/Tiffany Tregenza 2 members.
After considerable advertising and publicity, several interest meetings were held with the re-formation as
below...
1996 Rochelle Starr 13 members.
1997 Jason van Ritten 11 members (and 10 visitors).
1998 Jason van Ritten (President Elect)
This information has been supplied by long time worker for Rotaract, PP Ed Dyring.
Other Rotarians who have been involved are Kevin Ransley and Neil Everson.
40

* In 1991-92 a Leadership Training Weekend for Rotaractors was held in Gosford. The weekend was organised
by Kevin Ransley, and a number of Club members were involved as co-ordinators and advisers during some of
the sessions.
7. 28 CLUB (IMPACT CLUB)
The Rotaract Club of Gosford was chartered in 1970 and was for persons in the 18 to 28 year age group. At the
30th June following a member’s 28th birthday he or she was automatically out of Rotaract.
PP Ed Dyring was concerned about the loss of these members to the community. He had heard of a ‘28-Club’ in
Melbourne. It had been formed for ex-Rotaractors or other interested persons in the 28 to 45 year age group. The
then President, John Williams and the board gave approval for the investigation of the establishment of a ‘28-
Club’. Details were obtained from Camberwell ‘28-Club’ and former Rotaractors were surveyed for their
opinion about the formation of a ‘28-Club’ of Gosford.
On a cold, windy 19th September,1982, a meeting was held at the home of Eric Goldswain with 35 ex-Rotaractors
and their friends present. The constitution of Camberwell Club was read and it was decided immediately to form
a ‘28-Club’.
Marilyn Buttsworth was elected President and the Board positions were patterned on Rotary/Rotaract.
Meetings were held monthly, with a social function also to be held each month. The organisation was ‘laid-back’
as most of the members were now married with families and mortgages.
In 1986,the Club was renamed “IMPACT CLUB”, as it was found that in Victoria the name “28 Club” was
registered to another organisation (believed to be a massage parlour).The word “IMPACT” was voted upon by
the 12 Clubs then in existence in Australia and New Zealand. ‘Impact’ followed on from Interact and Rotaract.
The organisation grew and flourished. Projects were undertaken and local organisations supported. Money was
raised from Street Stalls, Fashion Parades, the Flora Festival (where pies, sausages and soft drinks were sold)
and Wine Tastings. Hands-on activities included tree planting, working bees, help for the “Halfway House for
Street Kids”, participation in “Clean Up Australia” and Camp Breakaway.
On the Social side there were many and varied activities some of which also raised funds. These included, Ten
Pin Bowling, Video Nights, Laycock Theatre Evenings, Mini Golf, Camping Weekends, Tiger Moth Flights, Hot
Air Ballooning, Dances, Progressive Dinners, Car Observation Trials, White Water Rafting, Pool Parties, Movie
Nights, Kite Flying, Tennis Days and Dinners.
Sadly, as with many other organisations, membership dropped off in the 1990s. In 1993 it was decided to close
down and a ‘Notice of Motion’ was sent to all existing members calling for a special meeting with a further
notice that all monies remaining in the Project and Administration accounts be donated to the Children’s Ward
at Gosford District Hospital.
Year PRESIDENT MAIN PROJECT
1982/83/84 Marilyn Buttsworth Gosford High School
1884/85 Noel Taylor Donations $1100.
1985/86 Christopher Scott Camp Breakaway $500;
(at time of writing, Chris is the
newest member of Rotary Gosford)
Ambulance $510.
1986/87 Darryl McCutcheon Quiet year.
1987/88 Graham Lamb Henry Kendall HS $50 :
Salvation Army $100.
1988/89 David Robbins Children’s Refuge $533;
Paraplegic Association $100.
1989/90/91 Joan Lamb Chertsey PS $300;
The Entrance Community Hall $346.
1991/92 Marilyn Pfyeld (Buttsworth) Gosford Rotary $88.
1992/93 Diana Gosling Balance of all monies, approx $1500 to
Children’s Ward of Gosford District
Hospital.
41

8. NEW ZEALAND TWIN MATCHED EXCHANGE
The NZ Twin Matched Exchange involves students from NZ schools exchanging with Australian school students.
For one term of the school year, the NZ student lives with his/her matched ‘twin’ and family and attends the
school of the ‘twin’. The following term the ‘twin’ travels to NZ for a similar stay and schooling. These
exchanges have occurred usually during Year 10.
In Out
1987-88 Jo Bulman Alison Grenfell
1990-91 Karla Schwartz, Ceanne Wallace,
Kim Gregory Carol Moore
1991-92 Maaike Franssen, Louise Hiron,
Kim McLenaghan Nicole Marquet
1993-94 Todd Skeggs, Beth Drielsma,
Meredith Jessop Luke Marquet
9. HAPPY TAPPERS
In 1992-93 the ‘Happy Tappers Dance Group” started with a number of disabled young people participating in
learning dance routines.
This was started by Kevin Booth with help from Ray Baldwin and John Williams — the first dance leader was
Thea Marler.
The group has presented two public performances and has been extremely well received.
The current dance leader and co-ordinator is Madelane Stephenson, who, with several young people and with
the continuing assistance from the Rotary Club of Gosford, has the group working well.
The aim from the beginning was for Rotary to set up the group and then withdraw leaving a committee which
is self sufficient— this happened in 1997, with Rotary guidance from PP John Williams and PP Frank Cross.
10. JOB SEARCH
This Vocational Project started in July, 1987 following a brainstorming session between Vocational Director,
Henk Keulemans and the Careers Adviser of Henry Kendall High School, Angela Glover.
It has continued on an annual basis and involves some 13 members of our club each year. These members act
as personal coaches on a “one-to-one’ basis with an equal number of students...originally from Year 10, but more
recently from Year 12 as well. The aim of the programme is to assist these students in their search for a job after
completing school.
Our members use their experience, contacts and knowledge of the job market to encourage the students in their
pains-taking task of sending out suitably worded , well supported and presented applications to prospective
employers.
The coaching may also involve mock interviews and telephone appointments, referrals,
references and assistance in obtaining suitable information about training and further study and attention to
presentation. Above all the confidence of the student is being boosted and often communication with their
parents is improved.
The meetings with parents and students have done much to build up our close association with Henry Kendall
High School. Feedback clearly shows how much this project contributes to our Club’s standing in the
community.
We are indebted to the commitment of time and enthusiasm of so many in our Club who have participated over
the years. The present committee (1997-98) is Peter Motte (co-ordinator), Mick Whalan and Henk Keulemans.
42

FURTHER INFORMATION
DISTRICT 9680 INVOLVEMENT
Numerous members have been involved with District duties ...the late Arch McLachlan and the late Max
Traveller, together with Bert Hunter, Lynn Dornan have been exhorted to stand for District Governor following
years of dedicated work for the District.
Others involved with District committees ...John Williams, Keith Dedden, John Phillips,
Geoff Grenfell (District Governor 1995-96 as well as numerous district positions), Peter
Turnbull, Terry Devine, John Pratt, Malcolm Brooks, Terry Gibson, Kevin Ransley, Ed Dyring, Keith Bolton,
Jim Kirkness.
GOSFORD INNER WHEEL CLUB
In April of the Rotary Year 1957-58, with President Bob Vaughan in the chair, a meeting was held at the home
of Rene Eagle with the view to forming an Inner Wheel Club in Gosford.
The Inner Wheel Club of Gosford was chartered on 10th August, 1957 by the then Acting Chairman of Inner
Wheel District 27, Mrs Ludowici.
Charter Members... President—Valda Vaughan Vice President—Rhona Vaughan
Secretary—Ruth Collett Treasurer—Jean Daven...
Club Correspondent—Jean Arkins.
Committee—Rene Eagle, Marian Hanks, Elva Knox, Edna Potts, Gwen
Thew, Doris Wallwork.
Members—Joan Bannister, Marge Barwick, Flo Browne, Olive Breckenridge, Gwen
Corner, Holly Davis, Glad Enderby, Edna Frost, Eileen Ghersi, Joy Hill, Norma Hobbs,
Joy Holcombe, Philly Hughes, Margaret Kiely, Alice Landsdowne, Constance Leask,
May Lillicrap, Jean McLachlan, June McCarthy, Belle Mills, Vin Neil, Rita
O’Donoghue, Joy Pile, Ellen Quodling, Eileen Roberts, Lela Scott, Bobby Vine,
Olive Proctor (Honorary)
Year President Year President Year President
1957 Valda Vaughan 1958 Rhona Vaughan 1959 Marian Hanks
1960 Gwen Thew 1961 Alice Landsdowne 1962 Eileen Ghersi
1963 Doris Wallwork 1964 Edna Frost 1965 Edna Goldswain
1966 Grace Andrews 1967 Jean Arkins 1968 Joan Ellis
1969 Joyce Harvey 1970 Pat Porter 1971 Kath Hayes
1972 Bea Bowen 1973 Win Timmins 1974 Gwen Bolton
1975 Dorothy Garnham 1976 Edna Stone 1977 Joan Herd
1978 Beryl Kirkness 1979 Jill Myers 1980 Marj Walker
1981 Alma Rowland 1982 Marie Smith 1983 Margaret Kiely
1984 Rosalie Cully 1985 Joyce Dunn 1986 Gloria Cox
1987 Valda Vaughan 1988 Gail Ransley 1989 Val Moffat
1990 Marie Swan 1991 Mabie Cosgrove 1992 Melvy Adams
1993 Pat Porter 1994 Adie Lendrum 1995 Joyce Dunn
1996 Mabie Cosgrove 1997 Careen Allen 1998 Marjory Husk
CITY OF GOSFORD ( First Official Function )
The City of Gosford was proclaimed on the 1st January, 1980.
On 3rd January, 1980, Alderman Don Leggett AM, the first Mayor of Gosford, was Guest Speaker at a celebration
dinner of the Rotary Club of Gosford. He was accompanied by the Town Clerk, the City Engineer, other
Aldermen and former Shire presidents and Councillors.
He traced the history of the Region, and predicted that 1980 would see the start of great
steps to solve the most pressing problems...unemployment and the need for many residents to commute to
Sydney daily. he predicted completion of the Expressway and a four lane road from Kariong to Gosford.
It is interesting to note that there was a proposal to call the new area, the City of Brisbane Water. However the
outspoken efforts and the lobbying of Gosford Rotarians Jim Kirkness, Les Graham and Les McCarthy prevailed
and the name the City of Gosford was retained.
43

MEETING PLACES FOR THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD.
The Club has met in four different venues over the years—- The Orion Cafe (in Mann Street nearly opposite the
Commonwealth Bank), the Gosford Hotel, the old RSL Club (where Gateway Shopping Centre is now )...first
meeting in this venue was 9th May,1968.
After a fire destroyed the RSL Club in January, 1973, it was necessary to move to the Gosford Golf Club.
Rotary memorabilia including the original gong was destroyed in this fire, however, the generosity of
neighbouring clubs, District 268 and a local business provided the following items...Rotary Club of Wyong (new
gong)...Rotary Club of East Gosford (new clock)... District 268 (now 9680) (new President’s Collar and Bird
— a Kookaburra shaped fine collection box) ... A.E.Eagle and Son (new lectern)...many Rotary Clubs (new
banners for our collection )...Gordon Proctor (Sergeant’s Gavel)
44

WOULD YOU BELIEVE ?
That there are certain “little” highlights which has occurred over the years which will be of interest to all
members. Some of these are listed below.
(i) That during the year of President Van Adcock ,1958-59, a goat was inducted into the club. Doug Berry
and Gordon Martin brought a white Saanen goat before President Van Adcock in the old Orion Cafe to be
inducted. The goat was inducted with all due formality.
Unfortunately the ‘new’ member had forgotten his deodorant and had to be removed after devouring several
bread rolls.
(ii) That Antony Newell—infant son of current member Vincent Newell and his wife, Kian, has attended
numerous meetings of the club. President Peter Turnbull (1996-97) presented Antony with a small name
badge to wear at each meeting.
(iii) That PP Jim Kirkness and Frank Sterland had been working late on the Hospital Kiosk and in the dusk
were sitting on fallen trees near the site drinking ginger beer from large brown bottles... the Matron spotted
them and sent for the police to remove the two drunks who were guzzling beer on the Hospital grounds.
(iv) That the District 9680 Assembly has been held in some interesting places: Hawkesbury Agricultural
College, Goulburn Police Academy, the old Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath (at that time it was pretty
run down), but, the most memorable (and worst) was the camp at Kurmond near Richmond where the whole
incoming board slept together in the one room—-four double decker beds. Is this what they call “bonding”?.
It was also reported that one Past President spent a lot of time running along the verandahs in his PJs.
John Flakelar catered for the trip up to Kurmond: smoked salmon and other succulent morsels with
champagne and other wines.
(v) That after the Change Over of 1972-73, the Board decided to increase the dinner fee by the “princely’
amount of 20c. ( I wonder what the members of that time said about that when they heard the news ).
(vi) That PP Keith Bolton has had 100% attendance since he joined Rotary ... 47 years ago.
(vii) That one of our long term members, Bill Pile, fell asleep at traffic lights on the way to Rotary...should
he have been given attendance for that meeting?
(viii) That the youngest ever Rotarian to join our Club was Trevor Hartshorn ...age 21 years. He joined about
1989 and now lives in Toowoomba, Queensland.
(ix) That many present and past members of our Club were members of the Apex Club of Gosford (and other
Apex Clubs).
(x) That a team of Gosford Rotarians dressed in short skirts and wearing wigs played netball against a Lions
Club team under the control of the local ladies netball team— they were to play at 5am ( perhaps for modesty
or to avoid spectators )— the result is given below...maybe we can resurrect this tradition!! It would be
interesting to see some of the shapes of present members.!! Stop Press.. The team of Bill Pluim, Len Stone,
Harvey Porter, Max Traveller, Ron Sky, Ralph Mortimer, Bob Vaughan, Jim Kirkness, and Bob Wallwork
won on a forfeit when the Lions did not appear. The game was organised during May, 1964.
(xi) That at an interesting meeting many years ago when the Club was discussing dinner fees, the caterer had
been listening in the kitchen and did not like some of the comments, so he stormed into the meeting and
abused (quite eloquently!!) all
members present.
(xii) That our current longest serving
members are PP Eric Goldswain
—(March 1960) and Harvey Porter
— (June 1960).
45
Rotary Netball Team at day break – ready & rearing
to go against Lions – May 1964
Ron Sky, Van Adcock, Jim Kirkness,
Ralph Mortimer, Alan Frost, Bob Vaughan,
Max Traveller, Harvey Porter

(xiii) That we still have one Foundation Member in Gosford— PP Trevor Hill.
(xiv) That about a dozen of our members collected donations for Prostrate Cancer Research at Ashtons
Circus—- perhaps they think they may be candidates!!!— for the circus ? or for prostrate cancer ??
(xv) That only one member has been President of the Rotary Club of Gosford on two occasions.. he is PP
Peter Turnbull.
(xvi)That the Rotary Club of Gosford is Club Number 6,128, chartered on 23rd November, 1945. We are
part of the world wide Rotary movement comprising about 1,200,000 members in 28,284 Clubs from 521
Districts over 155 Countries. Down Under there are
51,215 members in 1460 Clubs (Australia/PNG—1189 Clubs ... New Zealand/Pacific Islands— 271
Clubs.)
(xvii) That prices change but the message is the same— in 1975 a levy of 40c was charged to each member
who was absent without apology — in 1997 a levy of $7.00 is charged for the same non-apology.
(xviii) That five present day Rotarians (1997) are members of the Gosford City Council CBD committee
involved in upgrading the Gosford City Centre — they are Peter Turnbull, Malcolm Brooks, Mick Whalan,
Ron Hincksman and John Phillips.
(xix) That the Club has had three different banners... a committee investigated a change in July 1971...
another committee (Geoff Grenfell, Roy Dibben and Vern Arbie ) looked at the banner situation in
November,1977, and a third banner (the current one with blue background and sailing boats ) was designed
by John Flakelar and adopted in 1995.
(xx) That in 1998-99, the Rotary President Bob Husk will have his wife Marjory as Inner Wheel President!
— Has this happened before ?
(xxi)That following an exchange between Eric Reynolds and Bill Pollitt, the word “codswallop” was used
to describe Eric’s calculation of attendance. This gave rise to the design and construction of the “Codswallop
Trophy” which has been presented to the Rotarian who contributed most to fun and frivolity in the club in
any year. The trophy was built by Jim Kirkness and comprises two wooden clappers which smash together
when activated.
(xxii)That after only four months in Rotary, Harry Melkonian took on the daunting task of Bulletin Editor
and won the 1997-98 District 9680 Shield for the best Bulletin from a field of 69 Clubs. The last winner
from Gosford was PP Lynn Dornan.
46

1996–97 CLUB MEMBERS AND HONOURS
WHAT A YEAR IT WAS 1996-97 !!!!!
The Club has had an excellent year in 1996-97— under the leadership of President Peter Turnbull, with the help
of a great Board of Directors and with a keen, interested and co-operative membership the Club has attained
several District and RI Awards.
RI PRESIDENTIAL CITATION.
THE DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S SHIELD FOR “CLUB OF THE YEAR”.
THE GOVERNOR’S AWARD FOR MEMBERSHIP GROWTH FOR LARGE CLUBS.
At the recent District Conference of Rotaract our ROTARACT CLUB was presented with the award for
HIGHEST INTERACTION WITH THEIR SPONSORING ROTARY CLUB.
As well, the MAYORAL COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD was presented to PP Peter Turnbull for the
Club’s effort in Community Service.
One of our older members commented that the year was one of the best he had ever had in Rotary...not for any
special individual reason, but, for overall interest, participation and fellowship in Rotary.
MEMBERS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD — 1996/97/98
Name. Classification. Joined
Dennis Allen Building Contracting 1996
Sven Angledal Medical Supplies Importing 1986
Graeme Bass SA (Motel Management) 1990
David Boardman Banking Commercial 1995
Keith Bolton PP* SA (Real Estate)
63(Woy Woy),1965
1951(Grenfell), 58(Gosford),
Kevin Booth OAM PP PHF SA (Automobile Retailing) 1976
Max Britten SA (Mixed Farming) 1986
Malcolm Brooks PP PHF SA (Automobile Retailing) 1979
Snow Conlon Engineering Manufacturing 1995
Dr John Connolly SA (Surgery) 1976
John Corner OBE PP Honorary (Refined Oil
Products Distribution)
1948
Russell Cox PP PHF SA (Police Administration) 1981
Frank Cross AM PP Antique Dealer 1991
Keith Dedden PP Land Development Management 1991
Terry Devine PP* PHF SA (Education Secondary) 1977(Rylstone/Kandos),1982
Lynn Dornan PP PHF SA (Horticulture-Lemon Growing) 1979
Ed Dyring PP PHF SA (Postal Services)
64(Wyong),65(Griffith),1968
1958(Yenda),60(Gundagai)
Allan Eagle PP SA (Real Estate) 1970
Derek Evans Engineering- Oil and Gas 1997
Neil Everson SA (Property Valuing Services) 1981
Greg Flynn Town Planner 1998
Milton Frazer SA (Refined Oil 1970
Harry Gatliff PP*
Products Distribution)
SA (Electrical Contracting) 1968
(Turramurra),83(Woy Woy),1993
47
Longest Serving
current Rotarian
Eric Goldswain and Edna.
Courtesy – Club Bulletin

Terry Gibson PP* SA (Civil and 1971(Sydney),1993
Construction Engineering)
Ric Godsell SA (Newsagency) 1968
Steven Goldberg Hypnotherapist 1997
Eric Goldswain PHF SA (Agricultural-Mixed Farming) 1960
Geoff Grenfell PDG PP PHF SA (Architecture) 1970
Kevin Grey PHF* SA (Construction Industry 1982(Nth Sydney),1996
Cataloguing)
Barry Henwood Commercial Aviation Pilot 1996
Bill Hickson SA (Consulting Engineer) 1987
Ron Hincksman Property Investment 1996
Warren Hosking Sales Tax Consulting 1995
Bert Hunter PP PHF SA (Engineering Surveying Land) 1966
Bob Husk SA (Accounting Services-Taxation) 1990
Graham Jones Agriculture-Chicken Production 1996
Henk Keulemans SA (Law Practice-General) 1978(Nth Tamworth),1980
Jim Kirkness SA (Engineering General) 1962
Jim Lawson PP Electric Light and Power Services 1984
Larry Loxley Air Conditioning Services 1995
Harry Linsell Retirement Village Management 1998
Lester Marquet PP SA ( Education Primary) 1981
Len McNab SA (Education Secondary) 1985(Rylstone/Kandos),1987
Harry Melkonian Mortgage Insurance 1997
Matthew Moore Accounting Services 1994
Barry Morris SA (Telecommunications) 1978(Bathurst) ,85, (Goulburn), 88
Peter Motte SA (Finance-Stockbroking) 1986
John Neuhaus PP* SA (Commercial Egg Production) 1958(Henty),1984
Vincent Newell Podiatry 1994
Doug Newton SA (Banking Trading) 1971(Nyngan),74
(Blacktown),1983
Lou Oldfield Local Government Engineering 1998
Max Perry Accounting Business Services 1993
John Phillips OAM PP PHF SA (Pharmacy) 1984
Bill Pile SA (Driving Schools) 1991
Harvey Porter PP SA (Building Material- 1960
Concrete Manufacture)
John Pratt PP SA (Trade Consulting) 1978
Bob Pryke Education Secondary 1995
Kevin Ransley SA (Electrical Contracting) 1981
Bill Reid SA (Jewellery-Watch Repairing) 1967
Ern Rippon SA (Citrus Research) 1973
Michael Roberts Financial Planning 1995
John Sawtell Agricultural Computing 1996
Chris Scott Cabinet Maker 1997
Alan Seberry Fruit Storage Research 1992
Bob Sewell Agriculture Contracting 1995
Colin Sheumack PP* PHF* SA (Religion-Anglican) 1960(Kiabram),67(Bendigo Sth)
,84(Bathurst), 87(Sale), 1996
Kevin Shumack SA (Optometry) 1979
Mal Singh SA (Civil Engineering- 1978(Grafton),73(Forbes),
Water Resources) 1979
Jim Smith SA (Agricultural-Orange Growing) 1970
Pat Smith SA (Law-Magistrate) 1964(Dubbo),67(Wagga Wagga),1975
Alan Swan PP SA (Veterinary Surgeon) 1968
Peter Turnbull PP PHF SA (Finance-Capital Investment) 1972
Neville Wallwork Honorary (Footwear Retailing) 1967
Mick Whalan PP SA (Retail Centre Management) 1985
John Williams PP PHF SA (Avionics) 1976
Kevin Winterbottom PS (Architecture) 1996
48

AM-Order of Australia Medal- Military OAM-Order of Australia Medal
OBE-Order of the British Empire Honorary- Honorary Member
PS-Past Service Member PDG-Past District Governor
PHF-Paul Harris Fellow PHF*-Paul Harris Fellow from another Club
PP-Past President PP*-Past President of another Club
SA-Senior Active Member
HONOUR ROLL
PRESIDENT SECRETARY TREASURER DIST GOV
1945-46 Tom Lynch Cec Scott Keith Enderby Harry Monk
1946-47 Jim Paul Cec Scott Keith Enderby
1947-48 Adrian Hickey Cec Scott Keith Enderby
1948-49 Roy Thew Eric Hill Keith Enderby
1949-50 Cec Scott Eric Hill Keith Enderby
1950-51 Ron Vaughan Os Young Reg Carroll
1951-52 Tom Arkins Graham Shaw Reg Carroll
1952-53 Os Young Ron Vaughan Reg Carroll
1953-54 Garnet Adcock Os Young Reg Carroll
1954-55 Jack Corner OBE Bernie O’Donoghue Reg Carroll
1955-56 Dick Eagle Van Adcock Reg Carroll
1956-57 Doug Berry Van Adcock Keith Enderby
1957-58 Bob Vaughan MBE Arch McLachlan Keith Enderby
1958-59 Van Adcock Arch McLachlan John Knox
1959-60 Bob Potts Max Traveller John Knox
1960-61 Trevor Hill Max Traveller Len Stone
1961-62 Alan Frost John Bowen Len Stone
1962-63 Arch McLachlan Bill Davis Vic Holcombe Edwin Hill
1963-64 Ewart Harvey Bruce Douglas Vic Holcombe Alan Wood
1964-65 Max Traveller Bruce Douglas Vic Holcombe Henry Shephard
1965-66 Harvey Porter John Jackson Vic Holcombe Frank Meddows
1966-67 Bill Davis John Jackson Eric Hayne Ian Hudson
1967-68 Ron Sky Wal Young Bob Moses Gordon Harman
1968-69 Bruce Douglas Wal Young John Bowen John Moon
1969-70 John Jackson Bill Pluim John Bowen Tom Howieson
1970-71 Wal Young Bert Hunter John Bowen Harry Pickett
1971-72 Bill Pluim Bill Reid Allen Bourke Eric Blamey
1972-73 Les McCarthy Ric Godsell Allen Bourke Fred Higgins
1973-74 Bert Ghersi Ric Godsell Ed Dyring Harry Fieldhouse
1974-75 Jim Kirkness Nev King Ed Dyring Alex McPherson
1975-76 Peter Turnbull Ray Ellis Vic Holcombe Bob Moin
1975-76 Geoff Grenfell Ray Ellis Vic Holcombe Bob Moin
1976-77 Ed Dyring Arch McLachlan Allen Bourke Les Whitcroft
1977-78 Peter Stephenson Peter Turnbull Major Collett John Carrick
1978-79 Allan Eagle Pat Smith Major Collett Bob Burnett
1979-80 Bert Hunter Pat Smith Ed Dyring Roy Parnell
1980-81 Jim Secomb Geoff Grenfell John Pratt Colin Crawford
1981-82 Les Scott Phil Croft Henk Keulemans Ken Galbraith
1982-83 John Williams Phil Croft Len Wilson Graham Turnidge
1983-84 Lynn Dornan John Williams Len Wilson Buster Pye
1984-85 Malcolm Brooks John Williams Peter Treston Don Keighran
49

1985-86 John Pratt Lester Marquet Jim Lawson Peter Perry
1986-87 Alan Swan Lester Marquet Mick Whalan Bruce Downie
1987-88 Peter Treston Jim Lawson Bill Johnston Leon Becker
1988-89 Russell Cox Jim Lawson Bill Johnston John Lang
1989-90 Jim Lawson Henk Keulemans Bill Johnston Gordon Rowe
1990-91 Lester Marquet Henk Keulemans Terry Devine Don Durie
1991-92 John Phillips OAM Terry Devine Doug Newton Ted Atkinson
1992-93 Kevin Booth OAM Terry Devine Doug Newton Neville Chambers
1993-94 Frank Cross AM Terry Devine Bob Husk Graham Goodfellow
1994-95 Mick Whalan Terry Devine Bob Husk Ivan Skellett
1995-96 Keith Dedden Matthew Moore Bob Husk Geoff Grenfell
1996-97 Peter Turnbull Matthew Moore Bob Husk Alex Sawyer
1997-98 Henk Keulemans John Williams Warren Hosking Brian Coleman
1998-99 Bob Husk John Williams Warren Hosking Alec Gow
Club Boards (Directors— Individual Directorships are not known)
45-46
46-47
47-48
48-49
49-50
IPP
50-51 Tom Arkins Cec Scot Keith Enderby
51-52 Ron Vaughan Dick Manning Edgar O’Donnell Os Young Jack Corner
52-53 Dick Eagle Jack Corner Bob Vaughan Leon Cassier Garnet Adcock Tom Arkins
53-54 Bob Vaughan Dick Eagle Eric Ironmonger Jack Corner Os Young
54-55 Dick Eagle Van Adcock Leon Cassier Bob Vaughan Keith Enderby Garnet Adcock
55-56 Leon Cassier Gordon Martin Jack Daven Bob Potts Jack Corner
56-57 Major Collett Leon Cassier Arch McLachlan Nev Mills Bert Ghersi Dick Eagle
57-58 Leon Cassier Bob Potts Les McCarthy Trevor Hill Doug Berry
58-59 Trevor Hill Allan Frost Gordon Martin Ted Neil Bill Foott Bob Vaughan
59-60 Trevor Hill Allan Frost Bill Davis Syd Gibson Vic Holcombe Van Adcock
60-61 Bert Ghersi Syd Gibson Ewart Harvey Arch McLachlan Major Collett Bob Potts
61-62 Max Traveller Ewart Harvey Reg Eddy Trevor Hill
62-63 Harvey Porter Tom Bomborough Bill Foott Ron Vaughan Bruce Douglas Allan Frost
63-64 Syd Noble Gordon Martin Harvey Porter Bill Davis Arch McLachlan
64-65 Bill Davis Bert Ghersi Len Stone Ralph Mortimer Ewart Harvey
65-66 Ralph Mortimer Max Andrews Bruce Douglas Ron Sky Max Traveller
66-67 Max Andrews Ralph Mortimer Jim Kirkness Bob Moses Harvey Porter
67-68 John Jackson Claude Timmins Jim Kirkness Ralph Mortimer Bill Davis
68-69 Bill Pluim Les McCarthy Jim Kirkness Keith Campbell Ron Sky
69-70 Jim Gay Bill Hood David Lindsay Jim Kirkness Bruce Douglas
70-71 Jock McDiarmid Col Ford Bill Hood Les Scott John Jackson
71-72 Geoff Grenfell Les McCarthy Ian Harris Col Ford Wal Young
72-73 Jim Smith Graham Gardner Bill Hood Bob Tasman-Smith Bill Pluim
73-74 Jim Smith Jim Kirkness Les Scott Peter Turnbull Les McCarthy
74-75 Peter Turnbull Les Scott Laurie Reid Geoff Grenfell Ric Godsell Bert Ghersi
75-76 Peter Stephenson Laurie Reid Geoff Grenfell Murray Maddox Ed Dyring Jim Kirkness
76-77 Peter Stephenson Laurie Reid Allan Eagle Bill Pile Les Graham Geoff Grenfel
77-78 Bert Hunter Mal Halliday Bruce Bezer Allan Eagle Ed Dyring
78-79 Bert Hunter Jim Secomb Henning Madsen Jim Smith Noel Vidler Peter Stephenson
79-80 Jim Secomb Vern Arbie John Williams Allan Skepper Allan Eagle
50

Club(Pres Elect) Vocational Community Youth International IPP
80-81 Les Scott Noel Santry John Williams Vern Arbie Henning Madsen Bert Hunter
81-82 John Williams Len Wilson Noel Santry Ed Dyring Lynn Dornan Jim Secomb
82-83 Lynn Dornan Vern Arbie Malcolm Brooks Neil Everson Alan Swan Les Scott
83-84 Malcolm Brooks Neil Everson Vern Arbie Mark Lees Alan Swan John Williams
84-85 John Pratt Neil Everson Terry Devine Mark Lees Kevin Shumack Lynn Dornan
85-86 Alan Swan Peter Treston Doug Newton Russell Cox Kevin Shumack Malcolm
Brooks
86-87 Peter Treston Russell Cox Jim Lawson Doug Newton Jim Smith John Pratt
87-88 Russell Cox Henk Keulemans Roy Cosier Garry Hodge Lester Marquet Alan Swan
88-89 Garry Hodge Henk Keulemans Lester Marquet Roy Cosier Sven Angledal Peter Treston
89-90 Lester Marquet Mick Whalan Jim Smith Bill Hickson Kevin Ransley Russell Cox
90-91 John Phillips Terry Webster Len McNab Bill Hickson Kevin Ransley Jim Lawson
91-92 Kevin Booth John Flakelar Len McNab Terry Webster Vern Arbie(RIP) Lester
Geoff Grenfell Marquet
92 -93 Frank Cross John Flakelar Ray Baldwin Terry Webster/ Jim Lawson John Phillips
Neil Everson
93-94 Mick Whalan John Flakelar Ray Baldwin Keith Dedden Jim Lawson Kevin Booth
94-95 Keith Dedden Max Perry Ray Baldwin/ John Cowper Alan Seberry Frank Cross
Len McNab
95-96 Peter Turnbull Vincent Newell Sam Strada/ John Cowper Alan Seberry Mick Whalan
Michael Roberts
96-97 Henk Keulemans Vincent Newell Michael Roberts Alan Seberry Bob Pryke Keith Dedden
97-98 Bob Husk Frank Cross Bob Pryke Derek Evans David Boardman Peter Turnbull
98-99 Alan Seberry Neil Everson John Sawtell Harry Melkonian Henk
Keulemans
PAUL HARRIS FELLOWS.
The Paul Harris Fellowship is awarded by the club to members (and others) for outstanding service to the club
and/or the community. It is necessary for the club to donate $US 1000 to the Rotary Foundation for each
award.
This is the highest award which our club can give to any member. (In many countries the Paul Harris Fellowship
is purchased by individual members for themselves. This has rarely occurred in Australia).
There is an annual District 9680 Paul Harris Fellow luncheon held in North Sydney. One of the instigators and
a current organiser of this luncheon is a current member of the Club, Kevin Grey.
PP Bruce Hanks PP Max Traveller PP Arch McLachlan
Rtn Bob Marshall PDG Eric Blamey PP Jim Kirkness
PDG Geoff Grenfell PP Malcolm Brooks PP Bert Hunter
PP Les McCarthy OAM PP John Williams PP Lynn Dornan
Rtn Eric Goldswain Rtn Allan Skepper PP Ed Dyring
PP Kevin Booth OAM Rtn Vern Arbie Rtn Kevin Grey*
PP Russell Cox PP Peter Turnbull PP Terry Devine
PP Bishop Colin Sheumack* PP John Phillips OAM Margaret Grenfell
Valerie Dornan Bettina Williams Rtn Bob Husk
PP John Pratt Don Craig
* Paul Harris Fellowship awarded by another club.
51

DISTRICTS OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL.
Prior to the first District being formed in Australia in 1927, a number of Rotary Clubs were in existence. These
included Sydney and Melbourne both formed in 1921. The others were: Brisbane (1923), Rockhampton (1926),
Townsville (1926), Newcastle (1923), Parramatta (1926), Albury (1927), Wollongong (1929), Ballarat (1925),
Bendigo (1925), Geelong (1925), Hobart (1924), Launceston (1924), Adelaide (1924), Perth (1927), North
Sydney (1928).
The first District in Australia was District 65, which covered the whole of Australia. It was established 15th
September,1927, with G Fred Birks (Drugs retail) from Sydney the first Governor.
The Rotary Club of Gosford, chartered on 23rd November, 1945 belonged to District 65. By this time there were
two other districts.
In 1946, this became District 76 (now three other districts). In 1949 District 76 was called District 29 (now four
other districts). In 1957, we moved to District 275 with another seven districts), then in 1962 to District 268
(Governor Edwin J Hill, with ten other districts). 1977 saw the number change to District 968 (Governor John
Carrick), and finally a number change again in 1991 to District 9680 (Governor Ted Atkinson, with twenty other
districts).
FAMILY TREE.
52

ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD
MEMBERSHIP CHART 1978 – 1988
53

THE ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD.
1945 ~ 2008
2008 Update
Chartered: 23rd November, 1945 Club No. 6128 District 9680
1945 ~ 2008
61

maYoral mEssaGE
In 1998, I had great pleasure in supporting the
Rotary Club of Gosford's endeavours to produce
'The Golden Years' in my role as Mayor of Gosford
City. Ten years on, my sincere congratulations to
Gosford Rotary on behalf of all Gosford City
residents on the production of this update.
Since commencing in 1945, Gosford Rotary has
played a leading role in our community. Today, the
club continues to provide vital support to local
organisations and enrich the lives of those less
fortunate.
Council's association with Gosford Rotary extends
throughout its 63 year history. May our relationship
continue to grow and prosper in our common aim
to better our community.
There are few in any community who serve others so
selflessly - not once or twice but for decades. The
Rotary Club of Gosford is the epitome of
community spirit and I have no doubt this
publication will be of great pride to the people of
Gosford.
63
Councillor Chris Holstein
MAYOR OF GOSFORD CITY

When I completed the “The Golden Years, 1945-1998” in 1999 I became
a little ‘carried away’ and said that I would produce a ten-year update.
Well here it is and I hope that I have covered all of our activities over the
years 1998 to 2007.
The Presidents of each of those years have been very co-operative in
helping me. I also thank the many other Club Members who willingly
contributed …their articles saved me many hours of typing.
I feel I must comment on the very sad happenings of the past year, 2007-
2008.
The Rotary Club of Gosford has had a spectacular history over 63 years and these activities are recorded in the
two history books. It was the first Club on the Central Coast and has always held a premier position because of
its activities, its numbers and the quality of its members.
It has always been an all-male Club and all members in the past have been fully aware of this when they joined.
During early 2008 there was a move to change this tradition and much discussion was had and many
comments were made publicly at meetings and privately between members. One aspect of this, which caused
upset to supporters of both sides of the argument, was the unpleasantness which was generated during some of
the discussions.
The situation came to a head when an update of the by-laws, which contained a clause to allow women to join
the Club, was rejected at a Club Assembly in May, 2008, when the updated version did not get the required
percentage of votes.
As a result of this rejection, the Incoming Board resigned en mass leaving the Club with just 33 members.
Some of the resigned members had decided to form a new club meeting at breakfast. I was extremely
disappointed by this turmoil even though I had spoken against the change. I firmly believe that the Club
would have admitted women in the near future if this had not occurred.
The Rotary Club of Gosford continues to flourish with four new members since June, 2008. When the
resignations occurred a new Board was quickly assembled with a mixture of experienced and newer members.
We now look forward to the future with enthusiasm and for the greater good of the Rotary movement.
I cannot help but congratulate all past and present members of the Rotary Club of Gosford who have made
our Club an outstanding example to others by their service to the local community, to youth, to many
vocations and to the world at large.
I have endeavoured to name every man who has belonged to the Club but I know that I may have missed a
few.
Terry Devine PP* PHF
Club Historian and editor of the History Books
EDitor's rEmarKs
64

65
bannErs oF tHE rotarY
Club oF GosForD since 1945
The rotary Club of Gosford -
- Thanks current members of the Club for their editorial, pictorial and
financial support for the reprint and update.
- Extends special thanks to Graham Vale and the staff of The Entrance
Printing Company for their special efforts in producing this reprint of our
History Book.
- Expresses gratitude to Mayor Chris Holstein and Gosford City Council
for their continued support over the 63 years of our existence. The Club
thanks them for their special support of this project.
Many thanks,
The Rotary Club of Gosford

ullEtin CovErs ovEr 63 YEars
66

tHE First tWEntY PrEsiDEnts oF our Club
68

Honour roll
Honour roll
Date PRESIDENT SECRETARY TREASURER DIST GOV RI PRESIDENT AG CENTRAL COAST
1998-99 Bob Husk John Williams Warren Hosking Alex Gow James Lacy
1999-00 Alan Seberry John Williams Warren Hosking Larry Jacka Carlo Ravizza
2000-01 David Boardman John Williams Ken Young Michael Van Heeswyck Frank Devlyn
2001-02 Colin Sheumack Henk Keulemans Ken Young Barry Philps Richard King
2002-03 Malvinder Singh Cliff Innes David Boardman Harold Sharp Bhichai Rattakul
2003-04 Paul Anderson Alan Seberry David Boardman Danny Lowe Jonathon B Majiyagbe
2004-05 Bob Pryke Alan Seberry David Boardman Bruce Allan Glenn E Estress Sn Tony Mylan, John Spath
2005-06 Max Britten Terry Devine David Tawyer Greg Muldoon Carl-Wilhelm Stenhammer Lester Marquet, Charles Brock
2006-07 David Bacon Barry McDonald Jim Buultjens Pam Pritchard Bill Boyd Bob Pryke, Tony Mylan
2007-08 Cliff Innes Barry McDonald David Boardman Monica Saville Wilfrid J Wilkinson Graeme Davies, Chris Nelson
2008-09 John Connolly Terry Devine Bob Husk Tony Castley D.K. Lee Ross Pearce, Ralph Brown
CluB BoArDS
Club (Pres Elect) Vocational Community Youth International IPP
1998-99 Alan Seberry Neil Everson Greg Flynn John Sawtell Harry Melconian Henk Keulemans
1999-00 David Boardman Lester Marquet Bob Pryke John Sawtell Michael Roberts Bob Husk
2000-01 Colin Sheumack Barry Morris Bob Pryke John Adams Frank Cross Alan Seberry
2001-02 Malvinder Singh Barry Morris Max Britten John Adams Peter McCloskey David Boardman
2002-03 Paul Andersen Paul Andersen(PresEl) Terry Gibson Peter McCloskey David Hughes Colin Sheumack
2003-04 Bob Pryke Jim Katrakilis Barry Morris Jim Lawson John Adams Malvinder Singh
2004-05 Max Britten Jim Katrakilis Barry Morris Jim Lawson Greg Hooper Paul Andersen
2005-06 David Bacon Kevin Ransley Warren Hosking Charlie Sherlock Greg Hooper Bob Pryke
2006-07 Cliff Innes Kevin Ransley Warren Hosking Charlie Sherlock Greg Hooper Max Britten
2007-08 Jim Buultjens Oleh Podryhula Richard Waterhouse Bob Pryke Paul Anderson David Bacon
2008-09 Kevin Ransley Neil Everson Jim Katrakilis David Robins Jim Lawson/
Tony Harrison
Max Britten
PAul HArrIS FElloWS
The Paul Harris Fellowship is awarded by the Club to members (and others) for outstanding service to the Club and/or the Community.
It is necessary for the Club to Donate $US 1,000 to the Rotary Foundation for each award. This is the highest award which our Club can give to any
member. (In many countries the Paul Harris Fellowship is purchased by individual members for themselves. This rarely happens in Australia. There is an
Annual District 9680p Paul Harris Fellow Dinner held in North Sydney. This has been organised by a former member of North Sydney Rotary Club and
presently one of our members, Kevin Grey.
Since 1998-99 the following have been awarded Paul Harris Fellowships:
1998-99 - Keith Bolton, Doug Newton 1999-00 - Jean Skepper 2000-01 - Henk Keulemans, Jim Kirkness (Sapphire Pin)
2001-02 - Frank Cross 2002-03 - Alan Seberry 2003-04 - Jim Lawson, Barry Morris
2004-05 - Lester Marquet, Beryl Kirkness
2007-08 - Max Britten
2005-06 - David Boardman, Bob Pryke 2006-07 - Christopher Bearman
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CoDSWAlloP TroPHY
1998-99 - Terry Devine 1999-00 200-01 - Barry Henwood
2001-02 - Mal Singh 2002-03 - Mal Singh
l.J. McCArTHY CoMMunITY SErVICE AWArD (1st Award 1991-92)
1998-99 PP John Phillips OAM 1999-00 PP Malcolm Brooks OAM
2000-01 PP Kevin Booth OAM 2001-02 Chris Holstein
2002-03 Elaine Fry 2003-04 Christopher Bearman
2004-05 Richard Bridge (Posthumous) 2005-06 Laurie Maher
2006-07 Kim McLourey 2007-08 Dennis Allen
PrEsiDEnt’s aWarD
On a number of occasions the Retiring President has made a special award to a member of the Club who has worked tirelessly
for the projects of the Club and for the Community.
These members always work quietly and behind the scenes so they normally do not receive a great deal of club or public
recognition.
They are always outstanding Rotarians and deserve special mention and recognition on the occasion of the Changeover
Dinner, our most public dinner.
PrESIDEnT’S AWArD For Service Above Self
2004-05 Ken Young (Printing) Peter Turnbull (Advertising)
2006-07 Dennis Allen, David Robins
2005-06 Kevin Ransley
David Robins Kevin Ransley Dennis Allen
Maureen and Ken Young
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HistoriCal EvEnts – YEar bY YEar
1998-1999: (President - Bob Husk).
being distributed to the participating choirs,
Directors:- Alan Seberry (Club), Greg Flynn bands and orchestra, as well as benefiting the
(Community), Neil Everson (Vocational), charity Medecins Sans Frontieres.
Harry Melkonian (International) and John Other major community service activities
Sawtell (Youth).
included Gosford Rotary Race Day, and
Our International Service was highlighted the Christmas Stocking raffle which again
by the opening of the Heather Kinross provided funds for the Brisbane Water
Livelihood Skills Centre in Makati (Manila) Historical Society, our long term partners in
which provides a place for residents of a public this project. Our club provided funds, largely
housing project to learn entrepreneurial skills raised through events organised by PHF Eric
Bob Husk to permit them to open their own businesses Goldswain, to support the construction of Alan Seberry
and work themselves out of poverty.
Deniki Station on the Kokoda Track Memorial
The centre, named after the late wife of Australian RI President, Glen Walkway at Concord, which was officially dedicated at the RSL VP Day
Kinross, was sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Makati, Gosford and Osaka Service in August 1999. Gosford joined other Central Coast Rotary
North West (Japan) with a matching grant from the Rotary Foundation. Clubs in providing support for the Careers Market, which celebrated its
A delegation from the Gosford & Osaka North West Clubs joined the silver anniversary and was officially opened by the State Governor, and
Makati Club to dedicate the Centre.
six worthy recipients were recognised by our club this year for Pride of
On 30th June President Bob, PP Bert Hunter & Rotarian Harry Melkonian Workmanship Awards.
joined with our Sister Club, Christchurch North (NZ), to celebrate Osaka A highlight of the Club Program was an International Night, with the
North West’s 30th anniversary in Osaka.
Swiss Consul General, Mr Heinz Way, as our guest speaker. The dinner was
The year also saw our club hold an International Music Festival at Erina also attended by Luca Valli, the Youth Exchange Student from Switzerland
Fair Shopping Mall. The goal was to bring International Service to hosted by our club this year, and his parents Carlo and Simone who were
our community through music and the posting of photographs of our visiting Australia at that time. Gosford joined forces with Osaka – North
District’s projects throughout the festival area. There were some 10 groups West (Japan) and Makati (Philippines) to obtain an R.I. Matching Grant
with performances enjoyed by an enthusiastic audience throughout the to provide equipment and supplies for the Heather Kinross Centre for
day including District Governor Alex Gow.
Livelihood Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development Centre in
On the Community scene the year saw the Brady’s Gully Memorial Park Makati, Manila, with our contribution amounting to $7,596.
project, supported by the Federal Government’s ‘Work for the Dole’ The club funded a Paul Harris Fellowship which was presented on change-
scheme nearing completion. A Christmas Party coordinated by PP Frank over night to Mrs Jean Skepper for her services to the community, and the
Cross and his committee was hosted for the ‘Happy Tappers’. Inter Alia L. J. McCarthy Community Service Award for 2000 was presented to PP
Continuing projects included the Aussie Art Show, Australia Day Landing,
a concert by the Central Coast Orchestras & Choir, the Race Day and
Street Stalls.
Malcolm Brooks OAM.
The highlight of the Youth year was the success of the Youth Exchange
2000-2001: President, David Boardman,
Programme with a hosting of inbound student, Jenni Laitinen from
inducted seven new members making a
Finland and the outbound student, Amanda Jones to Belgium. Our club
membership total of 63. Inducted were Paul
was well represented at the International Night put on by the District’s
Andersen, Chris McDonald, Peter Medlicott,
Exchange students. Supported by our Rotaract Club we also took part in
Richard Waterhouse, Wayne Ible, David
the Glenworth Valley Youth Rock Festival.
Hughes and David Creamer.
Continuing Vocational Programmes included Job Search, Careers Market,
This year also saw the first Annual Children’s
Under-Employed Rotarians, the Pride of Workmanship Awards and the
Film Festival which was held at Erina Hoyts
introduction of a new Dedicated Community Services Award.
Theatre during December. Over $22,000 was
RI Directors Presentation - On 30th March our club held a special meeting
attended by RI Director John Carrick, District Governor Alex Gow, David Boardman
raised from this project and all of the proceeds
were donated to the various Central Coast
DNG Larry Jacka, Michael Van Heeswick and a number of past District
Volunteer Rural Fire Services. Additional
Governors. RI Director Raphael Hechanova, representing President Lacey fundraising included the Christmas stocking raffle, Race Day, Gala
at the District 9670 Conference agreed to address our Club discussing new Concert and monthly BBQs. The Brisbane Water Historical Society, the
RI initiatives and the Gosford Project in the Philippines which was also Smith Family, Lifeline and Operation Hope Children’s Camp were also
mentioned to the Conference as an example of how a single Rotary Club included in a long list of donations made during the year. In addition
could begin a major project.
$3,000 was given to the Parkside Youth Centre by the Rotary Trust.
The club also hosted a Rotary Australian World Community Service International Services featured significantly during the year when we
(RAWCS) meeting at Linton Park and also the District Golf Day.
hosted the GSE team from the Netherlands who provided a special
The L.J. McCarthy Community Service Award was presented to PP John presentation at the weekly meeting; Kiyotake (student) from our Tri Sister
Phillips OAM. Paul Harris Fellowships were awarded to Rotarians Keith club Osaka North West, Japan; and a return Friendship Exchange visit
Bolton and Doug Newton.
from Zurich. We also sent Rosemary Scarvo to Sweden with the Youth
Exchange Program. Our Club also hosted a visit from the members of
Tri Sister Club Osaka North West and a special dinner was held at the
1999-2000: (President, Alan Seberry). The major fund raising event for Regional Art Centre at Caroline Bay to celebrate the visit.
the year was the Gala Community Concert (“A Matinee of Movie Music”) The year was further highlighted by an outstanding array of weekly
held on 21 May 2000 at the Central Coast Leagues Club, with profits programs which included, Dr Luba (From Russia With Love program);
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Dave Stevenson (Rotary Scholar); Kila Karo (PNG Consul General); Alan
Davison (Australian Test cricketer); Pride of Workmanship Awards (seven
awarded); and a fun Past President’s Night. Members and their wives had
a great time at the Christmas Party held at the Boathouse Restaurant at
Koolewong.
On Changeover Night Paul Harris Fellows were presented to Henk
Keulemans and a Sapphire Pin to Jim Kirkness. Kevin Booth proudly
accepted the LJ McCarthy Community Service Award. The entire Board
and all Club members enjoyed a great year.
2001-2002: (President, Colin Sheumack).
President Colin Sheumack PHF took over the
reins for a second time having been a Club
President in Victoria some time earlier.
Our numbers finished the year at 58 with an
additional 2 Honorary Members; a Paul Harris
Fellowship was awarded to Past President
Frank Cross; a Four Avenues of Service Award
went to Past President Peter Turnbull; the L
J McCarthy Award for Community Service
Colin Sheumack was given to Chris Holstein; the Codswallop
Trophy went to Mal Singh.
One highlight was the introduction of the Quiet Achievers Award…
this year seven special people were recipients. A new Community Service
Activity was a weekly BBQ at a store in Erina. A special Youth Activity
was to sponsor two teams of two students from Gosford High School to
MUNA.
We welcomed a return visit from Rotarians from Sun Lakes, Arizona,
USA. A team of our Club Members and wives continued with Friendship
Exchange to Portugal and Spain.
Past President John Phillips’ Kokoda Project continued with 8 Aide Posts
completed and the Gona Health Centre update proceeding.
Rotaract has been battling despite a big effort by our members. Interact
continues to flourish with teacher Paul Richardson and Past President Jim
Kirkness the driving forces.
Donations totalled $43,000 with an additional $10,000 from the Trust
available for distribution. The Film Festival raised $24,000.
The Club lost three members , Eric Goldswain, Bert Hunter, Harry Gatliff
and one former member, Bernie O’Donoghue…the three members
passing away over a four week period.
A Trivia Night was held at the Agricultural Research Station; meetings were
held at Camp Hope and the Art Gallery; groups of members participated
in Progressive Dinners.
Chris Scott presented the Club with two beautifully carved ‘fine boxes’ in
the memory of his father, the late Past President, Les Scott.
Keith Bolton celebrated 51 years of continuous 100% attendance.
The Club was fortunate to have an outstanding weekly programme…some
of the most interesting were presented by our own members.
2002-2003: (President, Mal Singh). In 2002-2003 RI President’s theme
was “Sow the Seeds of Love”.
The President Malvinder Singh and the Board considered the best way to
“Sow the Seeds of Love” in the Club and the community was to arrest the
decline in ageing membership, and to rejuvenate the club with younger
members.
The District 9680 Governor Harold Sharp asked the club to go back to
basics. What could have been more basic than what Rotary’s founder, Paul
Harris, must have done in 1905 when he asked Silvestor Schiele, Gustav
Loehr, and Hiram Shorey to join him. The Club’s motto was “Just ASK”
with a sincere desire to offer and seek fellowship in Rotary.
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The Club invited over 63 community leaders
to the Club to share humanitarian ideals of
Rotary, and carried out 25 inductions, which
was an average of one induction every second
week. In the words of the District Governor,
this amounted to the formation a new Club
within the Club.
The enthusiasm and contribution of
new members made it a record year for
fundraising.
Mal Singh
The Club received 8 awards, including a
PRESIDENTIAL CITATION from RI
President Bhichai Rattakul for outstanding achievements in the FOUR
AVENUES OF SERVICE.
The Rotary Club of Gosford received every RI Membership Development
and Extension awards from R.I. President Bhichai Rattakul. Each of
the following said, “In Grateful Appreciation of Contributions made in
Membership Development by: -
- Bringing in the most new members in District 9680.
- Achieving the highest growth rate in District 9680.
- Achieving the highest retention rate in District 9680.
The Club also received the following District awards: -
- District 9680 District Governor’s Membership Growth Trophy
for Large Clubs.
- District 9680 Membership Growth Award Certificate for
dedication to Club Membership, Recruitment and Retention in
2002-2003.
- District 9680 Certificate of Achievement in Public Relations
for consistently outstanding commitment to excellence in
communication with the community.
It was a very significant event in the history of the Club that R.I. President
Bhichai Rattakul wrote a personal letter congratulating the Board and the
President Malvinder Singh, who was the driving force behind membership
and personally brought 24 out of the 25 new members.
As the result of Club’s success, members were invited to present Club’s
membership development model to other Rotary Clubs as well as the
District Assemblies within and outside the District 9680.
Club’s successful model (which can be duplicated anytime anywhere
by any Club) was to invite former Rotarians, Rotaractors, Rylarians,
guest speakers, offsprings of former Rotarians, recipients of Pride of
Workmanship awards, Rotarians who had recently moved into the area
and the wider community that the club served.
The basic ‘modus operandi’ was to build on the great name of Rotary.
Rotary has a great story to tell ... go and tell it! JUST ASK, and Rotary
International will continue to grow to fulfill its humanitarian mission.
2003-2004: (President, Paul Andersen).
2003/2004 was a very enjoyable year of consolidation following the year of
significant change in 2002/2003 under the Presidency of PP Mal Singh.
Mal’s very successful new member recruitment program changed the
whole profile of the club, injecting a large number of new, mainly younger
members. This, along with some other changes, unsettled some of the
established members. Then the Board’s principal focus for the year was
to try to steer the club through the year providing the new members
with support and guidance and providing the established members with
reassurance that we still had the strongest and best club in District 9680.
To this end the Board set about a program that restricted new member
recruitment in favour of new member consolidation and development.
Some older established projects that had lost their punch were dropped
in favour of new ones, which had the potential to utilize the talents and
enthusiasm of our newer members. Fund raising efforts saw $45,000 raised
for distribution to mostly local community groups.

Club Service
PE Bob Pryke managed the portfolio of Club
Service smoothly and effectively, and, had a
team of members undertaking all the tasks
required with a minimum of fuss. These
included his three sergeants, John Connolly,
Richard Waterhouse and Greg Hooper.
The bulletin editor was Bruce Hanks, while
Ken Young continued to print the Bulletin
and other club related print matter. The
Programme Chairman, Ron Hinksman, Paul Andersen
provided interesting weekly guest speakers.
Community Service
PP Barry Morris this year took on the Community Service portfolio with
his usual no frills no fuss attitude and we have had a very successful year
under his direction.
The Annual Film Festival under the chairmanship of PE Bob Pryke again
proved to be the Club's principal fund raiser generating $30,000 in funds.
Other significant events conducted under the Community Service banner
included the Annual Gosford Rotary Race Day, organized by PP Malcolm
Brooks, the Annual Gala Concert which this year had a Broadway theme
was organized principally by PP Henk Keulemans, our first Book Sale, a
great first up effort by Jim Katrakilis and his hard working committee,
and Dennis Allen again coordinated our clubs efforts with the sale of
Bowelscan kits.
The Club this year made the following donations to community groups;
Gosford Rural Fire Service $7,500
Wyong Rural Fire Service $7,500
Careflight Helicopter Rescue Service $5,000
The Brisbane Water Historical Society $3,314
The Smith Family $2,000
Central Coast Shelter $1,000
Fairhaven $1,000
Gala Concert Scholarships (4) $1,000
ROMAC $1,000
The Wheelchair Foundation $750
The Happy Tappers dance group $500
Central Coast Lifeline $500
The Samaritans $500
International Service
Director John Adams moved away from some of the more traditional
projects to move in a new direction this year.
The premier event in the International Service area this year was our
Vietnamese Dinner night, run as a fund raiser for a Vietnamese orphanage.
The funds raised were utilized to equip the orphanage with irrigation
equipment for use on their large vegetable garden.
The Club was again involved in assisting with the District’s GSE team visit
hosting the Japanese GSE team from District 2650.
The club supported Victoria Gouel, an Australian Youth Ambassador,
working in Binxian County in China under the Ausaid project.
Additionally we had several guest speakers who talked about international
aid projects.
Youth Service
PP Jim Lawson had a very busy year supporting quite a number of youth
projects.
These included MUNA (Model United Nations Assembly) where
we sponsored a team from the Gosford High School, the Science &
Engineering Challenge organized by PP Barry Morris, sponsorship of
a final year law student, Janet McKelvey from Mangrove Mountain to
attend the RYLA live-in course at Vision Valley, and participation by the
Club, led by PP Colin Sheumack, in two separate programs of RYDA
(U-Turn-The-Wheel) during the year; at Mt Penang and at the Ourimbah
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campus of the University of Newcastle.
The Interact Club at the Henry Kendal High School continued to function
under the very experienced and dedicated guidance of PP Jim Kirkness.
Vocational Service
Director Jim Katrakilis, our bundle of nervous energy headed up the
vocational service portfolio this year and ran with the two successful
programs, the Quiet Achievers Awards and the Pride of Workmanship
Awards.
2004-2005: (President, Bob Pryke). The
highlight of the year was undoubtedly
the celebration of Rotary International’s
Centenary on 23 February 2005, at The Night
Of 1000 dinners, at Mingara Club, with all
Central Coast Clubs attending. At Zone
level, we supported the establishment of the
Centenary Garden at Mt Penang Parklands.
Our club project was the refurbishment of
Rotary Lodge at Gosford Hospital, a project
originally proposed by PP Bert Hunter (1979- Bob Pryke
80) . We financed this in partnership with Mrs
Clare Hunter.
Our club hosted many members of the Long Island Youth Orchestra on
their Pacific Tour. We shared this responsibility with the Rotary Club of
Ourimbah and the Central Coast Conservatorium.Their concert was very
enjoyable. The Aussie Art Show was also well attended and profitable. The
Book Sale generated much hard work but was well supported.
Our nomination of Dr Jill Trewhella, an ex-Gosford High student, for the
Rotary International Centennial Award for Professional Excellence, was
successful.
The club’s major donation was to the Smith Family’s "Learning for Life"
programme which enables less fortunate children to complete their schooling.
Other recipients included the Tsunami Appeal, Kokoda Memorial Project
and World Vision. Locally donations were made to Business Week at St
Joseph’s College, a visit by the Nitra Youth Orchestra from Slovakia, Youth
for Christ and music scholarships at the Central Coast Conservatorium.
Our Iranian night featured Persian food, belly-dancers and a history of
that troubled region.
Kanae Hashiya was our Japanese Exchange student who had a truly
"Aussie" experience during her stay.
In recognition of our many activities across all Avenues of Service, the
club was honoured to receive the Rotary International President’s Award.
All in all, a very busy but enjoyable year.
2005-2006: (President, Max Britten). The
year began tragically with the sudden death of
the incoming Youth Service Director, Rotarian
Richard Bridge. President Elect Bruce Hanks
was unable to take up his position because of
continuing health problems.
During the year we were saddened by the loss
of long serving member PP Russell Cox and
PP Colin Sheumack.
The Board Members beginning the 2005-2006
Max Britten
year were President Max Britten, Secretary
Terry Devine, Treasurer David Tawyer, Club
Service Director David Bacon, International Service Director Greg
Hooper, Community Service Director Warren Hosking, Vocational Service
Director Kevin Ransley and Youth Service Director Charlie Sherlock.
On 24th November we held a special dinner at the Club to celebrate our

60th Anniversary (23rd November, 1945) with PP PHF Peter Turnbull and
PP PHF Terry Devine (Club Historian) reminiscing on past happenings
in the Club.
The Club started the year with 60 members…6 new members were
inducted while we lost 3 members to end the year with 63 members.
Donations this year were close to $52,000 while a further $5000 was given
to the Rotary/RSL Kokoda Project from the Gosford Rotary Trust which
reached $200,000.
Claire Hunter was made a Fellow of the Trust following her donation of
$5000 to the Trust...joining Fellows Bill Pile, Sven Angeldahl and Alan
and Marie Swan as Trust Fellows.
Our main hands-on project this year was the renovating and painting of
Fairhaven Services to be used by Senior Disabled Members. This project
was organized and led by Dennis Allen and supported enthusiastically by
many fellows and their wives.
In youth activities RYDA continued to grow from strength to strength,
we adopted RYPEN and supported Fairhaven Special Olympics, Summer
Children’s Village and Operation Hope.
David Boardman did an excellent job with the production of the Club
Weekly Bulletin; we were entertained by the Sergeants Richard Waterhouse,
Lester Marquet, Jim Katrakilis and John Connolly.
We had a big group of 20 members and wives attend the District
Conference in Canberra.
The President’s Award was given to Kevin Ransley for Service Above Self.
2006-2007: (President, David Bacon). The
Club’s efforts during 2006-07 were recognised
at district level with the award of the District
Governor’s trophy for community service.
This was one of the major highlights of the
year. Included in community service during the
year were the construction of a sun shelter at
Mangrove Mountain Retreat, Circus Quirkus,
where more than 1,500 children, their parents
and carers were able to enjoy the entertainment,
David Bacon
the Happy Tappers concert for young people
with disabilities, the Gala Concert attended by
more than 1,000 music lovers, Race Day and participation in the Australia
Day celebrations on the Gosford waterfront.
The LJ McCarthy Community Service Award was presented to Kim
McLoughry from the Regional Youth Support Service and a Paul
Harris Fellowship was presented to the Director of the Central Coast
Conservatorium of Music, Christopher Bearman, for his services to the
Gala Concert and the development of music in the region. The club’s work
in the area of youth was also recognised with a district commendation.
Young members of the community were sponsored to attend RYDA,
RYPEN, MUNA, Siemens Science Experience, National Youth Science
Forum and the Henry Kendall High School Interact Club was again
supported. The club again hosted a visiting GSE team, this time from
Brazil, and demonstrated the strength of volunteering in Australia through
visits to the State Emergency Services and Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol.
An international exchange student, Kirk Stephenson, from Canada was
hosted and he proved to be an excellent ambassador for his country,
conducting himself with style. Links were established with a Rotary Club
in Gosford’s sister city, Edogawa in Japan. One of the highlights of the
year was the international evening with the Mayor of Edogawa, Mayor
Tada and President Fujio Suzuki and Past President Masao Ishibashi from
Tokyo Higashi-Edogawa Rotary Club.
Another highlight was the induction as an honorary member of Benjamin
Ijumi, the Chief of Kokoda. The club received a Presidential Citation
from Rotary International President, Bill Boyd for achieving its district
goals. Overall a positive contribution was made to the community
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through activities and donations of almost $75,000. Attendances at club
meetings remained good during the year with the average exceeding 80%.
Visibility of the club was enhanced with the launch of a club website www.
gosfordrotary.org.au and the erection of meeting signs alongside the main
roads into Gosford.
The Club also provided service to the District by staging the District
Changeover at which DG Greg Muldoon handed over the DG for 2006-
07, Pam Pritchard. 62 members.
2007-2008: (President, Cliff Innes). The
Club numbers finished the year with 53
together with 5 Honorary members…Marie
Andrews, Jim Smith, Benjamin Ijumi, Neville
Wallwork and Harvey Porter. There were
eight resignations during the year…Charlie
Sherlock, Frank Cross, Chris McDonald, Ron
Collins, Len McNab, Mark Lees, Vic Ranzetta
and David Tawyer.
New members inducted were Jim Katrakilis
(rejoined), John Walters and Frank Cliff Innes
Whittington. We were all saddened by the loss
of long standing members Bruce Hanks and Bill Pile.
The L.J.McCarthy Award for Community Service was given to Dennis
Allen and the Paul Harris Awardee for this year was Max Britten. The Club
was again awarded the Rotary International President’s Citation.
A Film Night was held at the Avoca Theatre to raise funds for Community
Service…there was discussion of an upgrade to Pioneer Park…negotiations
continue with the City Council. RYDA continues to flourish with most
high schools on the Central Coast participating…our special thanks and
congratulations to David Robins for his great involvement and achievement
in organizing this program.
We were able to sponsor Louise Duff as a member of a Group Study
Exchange group to the USA. We also hosted a visit by a GSE group from
the USA.
Circus Quirkus continued as a great service activity and fund raiser
($20,000). Total donations to charitable organizations for the year were
nearly $61,000.
Four Quiet Achiever Awards were presented and Pride of Workmanship
Awards were given to five members of the community for their work above
and beyond the normal call of duty.
Interact continues to go very well at Henry Kendall High School and one
of the members, Grace Mulligan, being awarded a trip as a member of the
crew of the Young Endeavour.
PP David Bacon has produced great Weekly Bulletins while PP PHF Peter
Turnbull has continued to help finance the Bulletin with his collection of
advertising from around the City.
The Trust reached $230,000 and distributed funds to the Royal Volunteer
Coastal Patrol, Microsearch, RAWCS, Rotary/RSL Kokoda Memorial
Project. Trust Fellows were Peter and Arlene Turnbull, Bill Pile, Sven
Anglesdahl, Claire Hunter.
Some special features were…Circus Quirkus, Race Day, Trivia Night at
Gosford Golf Club, Progressive Dinners, a group of members and their
wives visited Tasmania and there was a big attendance at the District
Conference in Bathurst in March.
Following a dispute about the induction of women members, the new
Board for 2008-2009 resigned from the Club at the end of the Rotary
year. The Changeover Dinner was a much quieter affair than usual with
no wives or visitors.
The Club Membership fell to 33.

MILTON FRAZER
somE mEmoriEs
Milton’s life can be described pretty simply… ‘I’ve been everywhere, man!’ or ‘I’ve done
everything, mate!’
Milton was born in Niagara Park on 9th November, 1925. He started school at Gosford
Public School. He was living at that time in Holden Street, then, he lived at The Entrance.
The family moved to a property in Forbes and he attended Forbes Intermediate High
School. Returning to Gosford, he attended Gosford High School before leaving in 1939
to work in his father’s shop. Then he moved to a property in Narrabri. From here he
joined the RANR in1943, serving on boom ships and small ships in Darwin and PNG
until 1947.
After leaving the Navy, Milton worked with Brisbane Water Ambulance, then, he with
his father and brother built an abattoirs and a butcher shop in Mann Street. The family
ran a very successful butchery for 6 years until his father retired.
Milton Frazer
After this he joined Chapman and De Carualho Real Estate…this later became Chapman
and Frazer. His father then bought a property at Werris Creek and Milton with his wife and two children moved to work the
property. After 6 years, mostly drought, and the family missing Gosford, they returned and bought the East Gosford Newsagency,
initially living above the business but shortly building a house in Caroline Street.
After two years, during which time they also won a Jackpot Lottery, they sold the business to Ron and Des Hincksman. They
then bought the Esso Depot at Wyoming and continued with Esso for 20 years, as well as buying two Service Stations.
He finished his working life in Outdoor Furniture production and sales.
The rest of this article came from a meeting with Milton and Jim Kirkness on the 6th February, 2008 at the home of Jim and Beryl
Kirkness with Terry Devine.
THE APEX CLUB OF GOSFORD
Milton was a Foundation member of Gosford Apex and served in Gosford and Quirindi. He became a District Governor of
Apex. He is a Life member of the Apex Club of Gosford.
Jim recalled the opening of Presidents Hill by the Governor Sir Eric and Lady Woodward in June 1962. He was given the honour
of delivering the Welcome Address to the Governor and his wife at the Dwyer Pavilion. There was an Honour Guard and the
opening was broadcast all over Gosford. Even a football match at Graham Park stopped while the opening occurred.
Gosford Rotary was asked to look into the formation of an Apex Club in Gosford. Rotary President Tom Arkins (editor of the
Gosford Times) spoke to Neville Wallwork who ‘rounded up’ young men from the town. They met at the Brisbane Water RSL
Club with Maurie Sterland as the inaugural President.
Rotary and Apex became very close with the construction of Presidents Hill and Pioneer Park.
Pioneer Park was an old cemetery and covered in lantana .. Milton was Apex Service Director and after much work and many,
many months (actually years) of negotiation initially started by Ric Godsell for permission from the State Government to hand
over the cemetery to the local Council, the joint project was completed. Rotarians Presidents involved were Jim Kirkness , Peter
Turnbull, Ed Dyring and Geoff Grenfell who was the architect for the project. Apexians included Ken Austin, Michael Hunter
and Jim Tritton.
The Rotary Club and the Apex Clubs retained a very close relationship for many years and many of the past, and, even a number
of the present Rotarians have joined Rotary after leaving Apex at the age of 40 years.
Jim Kirkness has had a 40 odd year association with Civilian Widows (started and supported by Apex).
It is very sad to relate that Gosford Apex Club is the last Apex Club on the coast and one of our members, himself a Life Member
of Dubbo Apex Club, talked to members of the Gosford Apex Club and found that they only have 6 members…incidentally, the
only members present were young women.
GOSFORD ROTARY. (Some of Milton’s thoughts)
Milton had 12 months off after finishing up with Apex but discovered he had something missing from his life. Some of his mates
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had gone to Lions, some to Rotary. Wives loved their husbands going to Rotary…they could do their own thing on Thursday
night! Milton was nominated by Bill Reid and joined with Jim Smith and Allan Eagle. His classification was Wholesale Oil
Distribution.
Rotary played a very important part in the life of the Central Coast with many of its members involved closely with other
organizations in the area and even Statewide.
Rotary was different in the past…today there appears to be too much pressure from above. (DGs become fired up on appointment
and expect too much from Clubs…many small clubs suffer and sometimes disappear because of this).
We have lost much of the levity of former years…we should loosen and lighten up.
Milton was very involved with the Christmas Hamper for 10 years and raised about $100,000 with much help from Bill Reid.
The later organizers did a great job but eventually were hampered by the Historical Society workers growing old and not being
able to sell as actively as in the past. He also was a FAIM member to the Solomon Islands.
These interviews have been wonderful and maybe I will combine them on a CD which can be kept in the records and looked at
in the future.
MALCOLM and MARGARET HALLIDAY
Terry Devine interviewed Malcolm and Margaret Halliday at their
home in Kincumber in the afternoon of the 15th January, 2008.
Malcolm was born in Homebush. He went to school at
Homebush Public School and did his secondary schooling at
Fort Street Boys High.
At the end of 1945 his father retired from the State Abattoirs
and the family bought a property at Matcham. After 2 years
at Hawkesbury Agricultural College, Malcolm worked on the
family farm. He worked part-time with Bill Pile who owned the
Gosford Driving School and when Bill retired in 1969 he bought
the business. He ran the Gosford Driving School from 1969 until
Malcolm and Margaret Haliday
he retired in 1993.
Malcolm was nominated for Rotary by Bill Pile and held the
classification of ‘Driving Schools’ from when he joined in 1969 until he left Rotary and became very involved with Probus.
Malcolm joined because he had finished his active role with scouting, which had been his great love for many years, and he was
looking for something where he could become involved in community activities.
The Club met at the RSL at that time and continued there until the RSL was destroyed by fire in 1972.
The Club was very friendly…Malcolm knew most of the members from his business dealings and also from the Scouting
Movement which had great support from the Club and from numerous individual members.
Gosford was a very different town in 1969 from what it is today…Malcolm remembers how he enjoyed being on the door at
Rotary meetings and getting to know every member well.
The Club seemed to always have about 70 members…the number of members has dropped and at the present time is only
approximately 60.
Margaret was a member of Gosford Inner Wheel firstly and then East Gosford Inner Wheel Club when she went to work.
Malcolm felt that even in 1969 the Club was exclusive. This was tempered by the fact that classifications could be adjusted to
admit any new member. He was interested to discover that there are now only two types of member…Active and Honorary and
that 10% of the Club could have the same classification. (I still believe that our Club is exclusive and will always continue to be
so. Terry Devine)
Malcolm’s brother is currently a member of Terrigal Rotary Club. He has commented that the Terrigal Rotary Club now has
members covering many and varied occupations (just like most Rotary Clubs). This is quite different from the early years of our
Club and probably most of Rotary, when most members were businessmen and professional people.
He spoke of Les McCarthy as one of the characters of the Club and also about the work done at Rumbalara by the Gosford
Rotary Club, and, as well the significant donations of the ‘Kitchens of Sara Lee’.
Malcolm could not compare our Club with others because he did not make-up. He felt that the members mixed really well and
cared for each other.
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He commented that the Community thought Rotary was only about building Parks and Children’s Playgrounds and he felt we
should advertise all of the other activities we are involved with.
He was critical of District Governors over the years who were ‘hell bent’ on forming new clubs….many of these clubs have now
disappeared or are struggling.
Malcolm had heard ‘on the grapevine’ that Gosford Rotary had voted to admit women (or at least straighten up our By laws in
accordance with RI). He believed that this change was inevitable even though the two strongest and most viable clubs on the
Central Coast were currently male only clubs. His brother states that Terrigal would not survive without women!
Margaret finished off our get together by stating that she would never want to join Rotary, because Thursday night was the best
night of the week…she could have anything she wanted for dinner!!
TREVOR HILL
Terry Devine interviewed Past President Trevor Hill one morning early in December, 2007 in
his office at the Grange Hotel where he goes daily. Trevor is now 90 years old and I was greatly
impressed with his memories of the earliest days of Gosford Rotary.
Trevor was a Charter Member of our Club.
Trevor first came to Gosford town as a young man in 1938 and for a period of time was
employed by the Department of Agriculture at the experimental farm which is now the
Research Station at Narara. At the outbreak of war in 1939 he endeavoured to enlist
but his agricultural background produced an immediate exemption, so he promptly reapplied
elsewhere as a labourer and was accepted into the Army. He served in the Middle
East and New Guinea for 5 years attaining the rank of Captain.
Following his discharge he returned to Gosford and purchased the Snow White Laundry
Service in Baker Street and for 14 years serviced the farms, hospitals, guest houses and
hotels.
Trevor Hill
He must have been one of the youngest to come into Gosford Rotary. This surely must
have been an achievement at that time when acceptance into such organizations was a fairly formidable affair for a person of
his age. I am sure that he too must have found this a challenging experience. Perhaps this mirrors the aims of our founder, Paul
Harris, who in 1905 gathered together a diverse group of businessmen. The Rotary organization is now worldwide with about
28,000 clubs, 1.2 million members in 154 countries including Russia.
In 1961 he moved to Adaminaby to lease the Snow Goose Hotel from the Snowy Mountains Authority for 2 years, and then off
to the Golden Sands Hotel in Nambucca Heads for a stint of 10 years before returning again to Gosford in 1972 to develop the
Grange Hotel/Motel on property he had purchased in Wyoming in 1947.
The Grange is also part of the history of old Gosford as the stone dwelling and stables on the south side of Renwick Street was
built for Frederick Healy, Principal Superintendent of Convicts in Sydney, by his servants and stonemasons in1836. The dwelling
was occupied by Trevor and his family for some time. His son, Mick, now resides there.
Trevor joined the Rotary Club of Gosford in 1945…he is a Charter Member of our Club. He was asked to join by several
members, including Ossie Young and Ron Greaves. His classification was Laundryman.
When he changed occupations he thought that he would have to leave the Club. However, there was a very definite "no way!"
and he was given a new classification of Capital Investment. Trevor commented that the title sounded great especially when he
visited other Clubs and met up with fellows with the same classification.
He recalls visiting Darwin Rotary and sitting next to a chap called Paspaley . He later commented to the other members over a
drink that this Paspaley fellow doesn’t say much. They commented that he didn’t have to say much…he owned most of Darwin
and Broome…he was, of course, the owner of Paspaley Pearls, one of the biggest producers of pearls in Australia.
When asked why he joined Rotary he said he was new to town and it seemed a great opportunity to meet people.
He tells of the new Club as having about 25 members, all of whom liked each other, enjoyed each others’ company and had great
fun with fines and especially a few ‘cool drinks’ before and after the meeting at the Union Hotel (which was only a few doors
from the Orion Café opposite where the Commonwealth Bank is now).
Trevor spent 17 years in Rotary here before he moved to Queensland where he had two hotels. He saw the Club grow over
the years 1946 to 1963…the classification system was very hard with many men wishing to join but being excluded by the
classification procedure.
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He was disappointed that many deserving men were unable to join.
The Apex Club was formed with great encouragement from Gosford Rotary and catered for some of the younger men who at
that stage could not join Rotary. Many of these Apexians later became Rotarians and have served our Club with distinction
over many years. (Maurie Sterland was one of these young men…it happened that Maurie was to be buried the afternoon that
I interviewed Trevor.)
Trevor mentioned some special characters he remembered…Jack Daven, Vern Adcock was quick witted and very clever. Garnet
Adcock took up law to help his son and graduated in a very short time.
He spoke of a Dinner fee of 5 shillings (50 cents) and complaints about the meals…sounds familiar?
One special project he remembered was Huntington House…an old run-down weatherboard premises where the Florida Hotel
was and The Crowne Plaza is now.
The Club renovated the old premises and brought up underprivileged children from Redfern for weekend and holidays and
Rotarians were rostered for supervision duty overnight and during the day.
He mentioned how the leading businessmen of Gosford inducted a goat into the Club at the Orion Café.
The Club had a very high standing in the Community. There were plenty of working bees and plenty of jobs to do…parks,
Presidents’ Hill, etc. We agreed that it has become difficult to find ‘hands-on’ projects now.
We spoke of the changes in the classification system…Paul Harris formed a Club for men to get together for company…he
deliberately did not want two members with the same occupation… in fact we had both seen members who objected to another
person joining if he had the same classification as them. Now in a Club like ours we can have six members with the same
classification. Many Clubs are battling for members and there are now only two forms of membership…Active and Honorary.
Trevor was taken aback when he heard that the Club had voted to allow female members.
My visit and interview with Trevor was fantastic and most enlightening …he is an outstanding example of all the good things
that the Rotary Club of Gosford stands for. His memory and details of past happenings were outstanding.
HARVEY AND PAT PORTER
Terry Devine interviewed Harvey and Pat at their home in Kincumber in
December, 2007. We had a great afternoon talking about old times.
Harvey was born in Cullen Bullen (towards Mudgee on the Lithgow/Mudgee
road). At age 5 he moved to Cessnock where he grew up and was educated.
After school he completed an apprenticeship in Fitting and Turning at
Newcastle. He worked for some time in a coal mine as a Fitter and Turner.
He joined the Merchant Navy and worked for 8 years as an engineer. He
worked for the Bankline of Glasgow on a ship, the SS Ettivebank operating
out of Geelong. He had reached the position of 2nd Engineer with only about
three months service needed to become a Chief Engineer….they asked him
to sign on for a short trip to complete his ticket. This he did but the short trip
eventually took 22 months…he claims he was shanghaied. In his time at sea
Pat and Harvey Porter
he travelled all over Australia and around the world.
Harvey came to Gosford about 1960 from Cessnock and brought with him a portable cement mixing set-up. He moved into the
Jusfrute Complex in West Gosford. At that time he had little money and lived for a time on site in a caravan. He did everything
himself until one day a fellow drove up in an old VW beetle and asked for a job. Harvey said you can start now if you like…OK
said the visitor…he worked there until he retired.
One of his earliest jobs in the Ready Mix Concrete business was the building of the Florida Hotel at Terrigal….it was a big deal
and it was necessary to set up on the site.
Harvey was nominated for membership by Gordon Martin who told him that he thought he had something to offer Rotary
and that Rotary had something to give him. His advice was to enjoy Rotary, to be involved with Rotary but never to let Rotary
become the ‘be all and end all’ of your life.
I asked Harvey why he had joined…his comment was that he had come from the country, he knew nobody and he thought it
was a good idea. He felt it was something he needed and that maybe he could contribute.
He told me at that time the Club was very friendly…it was fantastic for me ..it was very helpful. He would often go to Rotary and
straight after go back to work until midnight. His special friends were Les McCarthy and Bill Pluim. In those days we thought
as a Club, but, as well we thought as individuals.
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The Rotary Club of Gosford was composed of the big businessman of the town and it was a great privilege to be a member. There
were many men striving to join…they even had elections for President.
Some of the early special projects included Presidents’ Hill and Rotary Lodge.
Harvey has been an active member for 47 years and enumerated the following…
It contained the leading figures of the town.
It had great fellowship, fun and friendship.
It provided service to the Community as there were many more opportunities to build and to work physically.
It raised money for charitable works.
Harvey works always on three principles…
Never refuse a resignation.
Never employ a relative or a close friend.
Never criticize your mother-in-law!!!
I mentioned to Harvey that the Club had voted recently to admit women…he said that up until recently he was adamant that
no woman should join and that he would have immediately resigned if this happened. Now he feels that it is inevitable and that
we will eventually have women members.
(I have now conducted several interviews with prominent older members and have enjoyed them very much. Terry Devine)
JIM KIRKNESS
James Edwin Kirkness was born on 25th September, 1921 at Brady’s Gully where his
father, James and mother, Rosina had an orchard. Rosina was a war bride who married
James in Southampton in 1918. His grandfather and father were both lay preachers for
the Methodist Church, so Jim attended church from infancy to the present day.
Jim attended Gosford Public School which was then where the TAFE College is now.
He proceeded to Gosford High School for three years. He was very involved with sport
over those years.
After school Jim trained as a Fitter/Machinist. This was a restricted industry but he was
eventually granted permission to go to sea as an engineer ending up on the Caledonian
Salvor which was involved in salvage work on the Australian Coast , Milne Bay, Rabaul
and New Britain with a ‘crack’ salvage team on board.
While he was on leave Jim married Beryl Lawrence who owned the Beryl Hairdressing
Jim Kirkness
Salon next to the Valencia Theatre.
In 1946 Jim opened his own business which continued for 52 years until his retirement in 1999.
In 1950 he joined the Masonic Lodge. He has served that organization with enthusiasm, skill and empathy for nearly 60 years.
He has been honoured by the Lodge for his efforts over the years.
In 1953 he became a foundation member of the Apex Club of Gosford which was sponsored by the Newcastle Apex Club with
much encouragement from the Rotary Club of Gosford. Jim claims that his years in Apex formed his altruistic approach to life
which has persisted for all of his life. Some memorable projects were assistance during Maitland floods, Kariong Scout Camp,
Carols by Candlelight, Presidents’ Hill (with Gosford Rotary), Civilian Widows, foundation of Fairhaven (with Gosford Rotary
and Lions).
Jim served as President of Apex, President of Baden Powell Guild and Patron of Civilian Widows.
After compulsory retirement from Apex at 40 years, Jim joined Gosford Rotary in November, 1962. The Club met at the Hotel
Gosford where Malcolm Cusick (a former member of Gosford Apex) was proprietor. Gosford Rotary had originally met at the
Orion Café (look up “Would you Believe!” in the earlier history for the induction of the goat!!!), then Hotel Gosford, then
Gosford RSL (until it burnt down) and finally at Gosford Golf Club.
In 1966-67 he helped build the Hospital Kiosk and with the Rotary Club developed the playing fields for Gosford High
School. As Vocational Service Director he started the Careers Market initially at Erina High School. Later it was taken over by
the Education Department and held in the Dwyer Pavilion and finally at Central Coast Leagues Club with great help from the
Rotary Clubs of the Central Coast.
Jim was involved with Gosford Rotary in the following projects…Burns Place Fountain, Apprentice Night, International Ball,
Waterfront Fountain and Memorial Steps, Monster Auction, Pioneer Park, Interact in 1974, Kincumber Lodge, Rumbalara ,
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Slab Hut at Historical Society, Rotary Lodge at Gosford Hospital, the Gosford Rotary Trust, Bradys Gully Cemetery, introduced
film Festival/Circus Quirkus.
Jim has received many awards…1981 Paul Harris Fellowship, 2001 Sapphire Pin to PHF, 2006 Beryl awarded Paul Harris
Fellowship, 1985 Citizen of the Year, 1993 L.J.McCarthy Award, award for help to the youth of Gosford, Salvation Army
Appreciation Award, OAM and Centennial Medal in 2002, work with intellectually handicapped people, Red Cross Service
Award, Baden Powell Service Award.
Jim finished with great thanks to his darling wife, Beryl, and to his many friends and supporters over the years in Apex, Rotary ,
Masonic Lodge and the many organizations to which he has belonged and to which he has given lifelong service.
Kevin Winterbottom
Jim Kirkness in his latest model convertible.
KEVIN WINTERBOTTOM
Kevin Winterbottom recently left the Club through ill health. Kevin was an Architect all
of his working life after returning from World War 11.
Kevin is married to Maureen and lives in Point Frederick.
Kevin joined the Club in 1953 as a young architect working in Gosford. He left Rotary
soon after when he moved away with his work.
He rejoined our Club in 1996 and remained a loyal member until his forced retirement
from Rotary recently.
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HOW I FOuND ROTARY – NOVICE’S VIEW
I was attending a farewell lunch for a work colleague and sitting next to me was my
previous boss. During the gaps in the speeches we were discussing what we were planning
for our upcoming holidays. Instead of the normal humdrum, my previous boss told me
that he and his wife were going to India as part of a Rotary International group to help
vaccinate people in remote villages against polio. I was intrigued by this revelation (as
I thought, in error, that Rotary was raffles and sausage sizzles) and particularly when
he further advised me that Rotary International had almost single-handedly eradicated
polio.
Having spent sometime in third world countries in Africa and South America I had an
appreciation of the endemic crippling health and social problems that exist, but had no
real answers on how to help the situation. I thought I have to find out much more about
Rotary International as it was clearly making a huge difference to people’s lives.
I had a lengthy discussion with Paul Andersen the then President of the Rotary Club
of Gosford; received a visit from Paul and PP Alan Seberry at my home; attended a
number of Club meetings and then I was accepted as a member of the Club in September
Charlie Sherlock
2003.
I admit I was completely overwhelmed by the depth and breath of Rotary and the many sub-programs / projects that the Club
was supporting. There is so much to learn about Rotary and I knew that the only way to help my understanding was to be part
of the Club Board. This opportunity arose when the then President Elect Max Britten asked me to be Treasurer for 2005/2006.
Due to the tragic passing of Rtn Richard Bridge who was my friend and work colleague since the mid 1970s I changed to Youth
Service to take his place. I understandably did not start that year as strongly as I wanted to, so I backed up the next year to do
a better job. After two terms as Youth Director I can argue that I now have a significant understanding of the Youth Service
portfolio and the many sub-programs / projects that have benefited youth on the Central Coast and further afield.
I have been impressed by the professionalism of the Club, its Boards and the four Presidents (PP Paul Anderson, PP Robert Pryke,
PP Max Britten and the current President David Bacon) that have managed the Clubs affairs. Each year has been distinguished
by the leadership style of the individual Presidents and the wealth of sub-program / projects that the Club has supported. Of
course the strength of the Club is its members and I would like to especially mention just a few of the fellows who have greatly
assisted me and championed significant sub-programs / projects in my two years as Youth Service Director:
* PP Jim Kirkness Interact - Interact (International Action) and RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award)
* PP Barry Morris - Science & Engineering Challenge
* Rtn David Robins - RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness)
* PP Terry Devine & PP Alan Seberry - RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment)
* P David Bacon, PP Kevin Booth, Rtn Barry McDonald, Rtn Cliff Innes, Rtn Jim Buultjens & PP Henk Keulemans
- RYE (Rotary Youth Exchange).
I have also enjoyed many of the other Service sub-programs / projects undertaken by the Club, namely: the physically demanding
book sales, trivia nights, refurbishment of a section of Fairhaven Services, those very hot days when building the shade area at the
archery section of Mangrove Mountain Retreat, International Nights, delightful Happy Tappers Concerts, Red Cross Appeal,
Youth Exchange Dinners, Group Study Exchange Dinners, Quiet Achievers and Pride in Workmanship Dinners, Film Festival,
etc.
The Club over the next 5 to 10 years will have to meet a variety of challenges, including:
* Increasing competition for the welfare / charity dollar
* An ageing membership profile
* The limitations of being a single gender Club
* The recruiting and maintaining membership, particularly in the 40s and 50s age groups when service club
membership is decreasing
* Need to vary and increase its revenue base
I am sure that the Club will meet these challenges and continue to make a very valuable contribution to the Central Coast and
further afield.
Charlie Sherlock, Youth Service Director (2006/2007) April 2007
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ROTARY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS
Club sErviCE aCtivitiEs
Prior to Rotary’s 100 birthday the International President Glenn E Estress Sr said “Rotarians are ordinary people who
accomplish extraordinary things…Thanks to the Rotary Foundation of R.I., Rotarians have provided more than $US 1.4
billion for service projects in more than 166 countries. Rotary supports the world’s largest privately-funded international
scholarship programme and sponsors one of the world’s most popular youth exchange programmes.
We have been leaders in the global fight against polio, saving millions of children from this crippling disease.
"It is our birthday gift to the children of the world.”
On the evening of 19th February, 2005, hundreds of Rotarians from the Central Coast gathered for dinner at the Mingara
Club to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the foundation of Rotary International.
Local boy, journalist and author Peter FitzSimons was an excellent after-dinner speaker who covered Rugby, France and
memories of his boyhood.
Every Club was represented with the Rotary Club of Gosford prominent in their numbers and costumes with many wives
present.
This was most appropriate because the Rotary Club of Gosford the first club on the Central Coast and the sponsor initially of
every other club on the Coast. (Gosford sponsored Wyong (1948), Woy Woy (1950), East Gosford (1966), Gosford North
(1972), Gosford West (1976). From these clubs have come all other clubs chartered on the Central Coast.
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60th ANNIVERSARY OF THE ROTARY CLuB OF GOSFORD
The Club was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Newcastle and the Charter Night was held on the 23rd November, 1945.
To celebrate the 60th Anniversary a full page supplement was printed in the Central Coast Express-Advocate. Our thanks to
PP Peter Turnbull PHF and Ken Young.
Foundation members were President Tom Lynch (General Bank), Harry Lord Snr (Orchardist), Tom Arkins (Press), Adrian
Hickey (Legal), Jim Paul (Medical), Ron Vaughan (Pharmacy), Cec Scott (Co-operatives), Norm Tegal (Butchery), Tom
Plummer (Bank Valuer), Roy Thew (Local Government), Os Young (Footwear), Ron Grieve (Dry Cleaner), Roy Wood (Citrus
Shed Manager), Chas Staples, Jack Little, Keith Enderby, Ern Bennett and Jack Speers.
The first project agreed to on 9th January 1946 was to assist the Gosford District Hospital. A fortnight later it was decided to
raise $4000 in funds for the beautification of the hospital grounds and a cheque for $1125 was handed to the Hospital Board
for the works during April 1946.
At the Club meeting of the 24th November, 2005 two entertaining presentations were made by PP Peter Turnbull PHF and
PP Terry Devine PHF on our history.
A feature of our history that was prevalent during PP Peter’s presentation was our strong involvement with Youth., through the
great number of times we participated in the Youth Exchange Students programme. Our Club has hosted exchange students
from South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, Russia, Belgium, Finland, Germany, USA, Switzerland and Canada. In addition we
have hosted exchange students from our Tri Sister Club in Osaka North West, Japan on a number of occasions.
All of these exchanges have enriched the lives of host parents, club members and the students themselves. We regularly hear
from members who have received a card or a letter from overseas from a former exchange student, or, of a visit to a former
student by members when travelling abroad.
In 1990-91, PP Lester Marquet PHF and in 1991-92, PP John Phillips PHF had very busy involvement with youth
programmes. This included 2 to RYLA, 2 to the National Science School, 4 from Osaka North West, 4 to New Zealand and 4
from New Zealand.
In recent times we have welcomed Kirk Stephenson (Canada) and Thomas Alexandre (Belgium) and we will be sending
Mitchell Innes overseas.
Picture shows the top table at the Dinner to celebrate our 60th Anniversary…
PP PHF David Boardman, PP PHF Kevin Booth, PP PHF Peter Turnbull, David Bacon, (then) President and now PHF Max
Britten, PP PHF Terry Devine, Jim Katrakilis
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GOSFORD ROTARY TRuST
Capital Chairman secretary treasurer
1998-99 $128,253 Kevin Shumack Ron Hincksman Doug Newton
1999-00 $136,471 Ron Hincksman Terry Devine Max Dunstan
Distributed $4,701.65 to Gosford District Hospital for Vital Signs Monitors
2000-01 $158,550 Ron Hincksman Terry Devine Cliff Innes
Distributed $750 to Henry Kendall High School Special Needs Equipment
Distributed $2,602 to Central Coast Lifeline kitchen
2001-02 $168,535 Ron Hincksman Terry Devine Cliff Innes
Distributed $3,000 to Regional Youth Centre Parkside
2002-03 $179,375 David Boardman/ Terry Devine Cliff Innes
Lester Marquet
Distributed $434.32 to Gosford East Public School Special Needs Equipment
2003-04 $192,396 Lester Marquet Terry Devine Cliff Innes
2004-05 $206,544 Lester Marquet Peter Medlicott Cliff Innes
Distribued $8,500 to Rotary Lodge
2005-06 $234,925 Lester Marquet Peter Medlicott David Boardman
Distributed $5,000 to Rotary / RSL Kokoda Memorial Project
2006-07 $263,555 Lester Marquet Peter Medlicott David Boardman
Distributed $1,800 to Rotary Lodge
Distributed $5,000 to Coast Shelter
Distributed $7,557.48 to Gosford District Hospital Retcam machine
2007-08 $212,692 Lester Marquet Peter Medlicott David Boardman
Distributed $6,000 to Royal Coastal Volunteer Service
Distributed $1,000 to Central Coast Lifeline
Distributed $1,000 to Microsearch Foundation
Distributed $1,000 to Rotary / RSL Kokoda Memorial Project
Fellows of the Trust (have donated $1,000 or more to Trust) are:
Rotarian Bill Pile, PP Alan and Marie Swan, PP Peter and Arlene Turnbull, Rotarian Sven Engledal and Claire Hunter.
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KINDS OF MEMBERSHIP
Up to 2004 the following types of membership existed …
Active; Additional Active (Same classification as a member of the club, a former Rotarian or a former Rotaractor); Senior
Active (a member with 15 years of service, 10 years of service and aged 60 or 5 years of service and aged 65 years); Past Service
(someone who joins after retirement); Honorary (persons who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service in the
furtherance of Rotary ideals).
In 2004, change was made involving the classification system…previously only an Active Member (and an Additional Active)
could hold the same classification.
The change stated that 10% of the membership of any club could hold the same classification. For example, with our Club of 60
members, we could have 6 Accountants, 6 Bankers, etc.
Currently there are only two types of membership… Active and Honorary.
HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
Honorary Membership of our Club was given only on rare occasions to people who had given outstanding service to Rotary.
It is given on a year-to-year basis.
Our records show the following people who have been granted Honorary Membership at one time or another…remember
Honorary Membership is not a lifelong award.
Gordon Procter, Bob Marshall, Tom Arkins, Jack Corner, Bruce Hanks Snr, Neville Wallwork, Pat Smith, Jim Smith, Bill Pile,
Chris Harcher (local Member of Parliament), Colin Sheumack, Benjamin Ijumi (PNG Chief of Kokoda), Harvey Porter, Bruce
Hanks Jnr, Marie Andrews (local Member of Parliament).
These names are recorded up to December 2008.
MEMBERSHIP NIGHTS
Over the past ten years the Club has planned and organized membership nights where members of the public are invited to a
Club Meeting at which speakers talk about Rotary, in general, and the Rotary Club of Gosford in particular.
Usually a special guest speaker is invited and members of our Club long term and newly inducted speak of their experiences with
the Club.
Over the years speakers have included PDG Geoff Grenfell PHF, Milton Frazer, Harvey Porter, Jim Lawson, Charlie Sherlock
and many others.
Often a slide show of achievements of the Club has been shown.
The most recent was 21st September, 2006 where the Guest Speaker was Don Keady, who spoke about “Marketing” …some
things that must be done and some of the pitfalls of marketing.
PP Terry Devine PHF gave a short address about the history of our Club and the variety of people who formed the Club and
their great involvement with the city over many years. This involvement continues to the present time.
Charlie Sherlock spoke in a very interesting way about why he joined Rotary and some of his past experiences inside and outside
of Rotary.
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Chris Scott, Bruce Walker (Bush Poet), David Bacon, Peter Mott, Ed Dyring, Keith Dedden, Neville Wallwork, Larry Loxley, Pat Smith, Trevor Hill, Kevin
Shumack, Roy Cosier, Bob Heathwood, Max Kellett, Malcolm Halliday, Jim Smith, John Flakelar, Alan Swan
PAST PRESIDENTS’ AND PAST MEMBERS’ NIGHTS
Over the years a number of Past Members’ Nights have been held.
A Past Presidents’ Night was held on the 1st November, 1984. (This was not reported in the former 50 Year History).
At that time there were 26 Past Presidents in the Club…16 from Gosford and 10 from other Clubs.
Those who had joined from other Clubs were specially mentioned…
Eric Blamey Eastwood 1967-68 Keith Bolton Grenfell 1955-56
Noel Cathcart Grenfell 1965-66 Eric Clark Scone 1957-58
Bruce Hanks(Sen) Woy Woy 1950-51 Terry Devine Rylstone-Kandos 1980-81
Max Kellett Newcastle West John Neuhaus Henty
Keith Robson Nundah
The evening was organized by PDG PP Geoff Grenfell PHF.
The President in 1984-85 was Malcolm Brooks OAM PHF.
Another Past Presidents’ Night was held on the 28th June, 2001 near the end of President David Boardman’s year in office.
Those present were Past Presidents….Geoff Grenfell, Kevin Booth, John Phillips, Henk Keulemans, Bob Husk, Jim Secomb,
Malcolm Brooks, Jim Lawson, Lester Marquet, Keith Dedden, Harvey Porter (joined 1962), Alan Swan, Jim Kirkness (joined
1962), Peter Turnbull, Trevor Hill (joined 1945), Colin Sheumack, Lynn Dornan, Frank Cross, Terry Devine, Eric Goldswain
(joined 1960), David Boardman, Alan Seberry, Peter McCloskey, Keith Bolton, Allan Eagle, John Williams, Barry Morris.
Past Members present were…John Flakelar, Neville Wallwork, Peter Motte, Pat Smith, Jim Smith.
Apologies were received from…Bert Ghersi, John Pratt, Bert Hunter, Peter Treston.
The ‘Two Ronnies’ PP Alan Swan and PP Lynn Dornan conducted the fine session.
The Chairman for the evening was PP Harvey Porter PHF with planning and presentations by PP Terry Devine, PDG Geoff
Grenfell and PP Lynn Dornan.
The most recent Past Members Night was held on the 9th November, 2006.
Past Members present were…Chris Scott, Peter Motte, Ed Dyring, Keith Dedden, Max Kellett, Larry Loxley, Pat Smith, Trevor
Hill, Kevin Shumack, Roy Cosier, Bob Heathwood, Mick Whalan, Mal Halliday, Jim Smith, John Flakelar, Alan Swan.
Apologies were received from Jon Stokes, Max Perry, John Sprague, Jack Ellis, Matthew Moore and John Pratt.
The Chairman for the evening was PP Alan Seberry. The evening was planned and organized by PP Frank Cross.
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Past members were introduced by PP Terry Devine PHF who had prepared and presented a power point presentation about some
of the important achievements of the Club.
Current members Charlie Sherlock and David Robins spoke about overseas happenings and the motor industry respective.
The guest speaker was Bruce Walker who spoke of his past experiences in the years gone by and his specialty, Bush Poetry.
President David Bacon spoke on the evolution of Rotary, our current ‘Lead the Way’ approach to Service in the Community and
the enduring value of friendship and fellowship.
The ‘Two Ronnies’ made a reappearance for the fine session in the guise of PP Alan Swan and PP Lester Marquet.
THE PARRAMATTA SHIELD
The Parramatta Shield is the symbol of supremacy for golfers in the District.
The photograph shows recent winners from the Club which has held the trophy on many occasions. Dennis Allen, Max Britten,
Warren Hosking and Kevin Ransley.
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GOSFORD ROTARY GALA CONCERT
CommunitY sErviCE ProjECts
“The Night in Vienna” initiated our Club’s annual Fundraising in support of music through popular classic concert
performances.
In his Presidential year, PP Peter Turnbull and the late Tudor Davis invited local Probus Clubs, Rotarians with friends and family
to the Central Coast Leagues Club Auditorium in autumn 1997. The performance by the Gosford Symphony Orchestra (as it
was then known) and the Central Coast Youth Orchestra under the baton of Conductor Robert Bedwell was outstanding. This
was combined with an audio visual of beautiful Vienna. Elizabeth Dilley and Barry Garret were the soloists and dancing was
performed by the Helen Donald Dance Studio. The afternoon attracted some 550 people and was a spectacular success begging
a repeat.
Chris Bearman as the new Artistic Director of the Gosford Conservatorium of Music, was promptly inspired to approach the
then President Henk Keulemans for participation by a wider representation of the local leading Ensembles. With the generous
response from Robert Bedwell, agreement was soon reached to provide a combined platform for the Central Coast Symphony
Orchestra, the Philharmonia (Choir), the Central Coast Concert Band and the Gosford City Brass Band as an entertaining
fundraiser in support of all four Ensembles. A Joint Committee representing the four ensembles and Gosford Rotary was formed
and worked harmoniously ever since to make the first Gala Concert in May 1998 and annual Gala’s a resounding success. Former
Youth Director Derek Evans rallied Probus and local Rotary support in his successful promotion of a popular classic music
program “Music You Know and Love”.
Some of the early achievements included:
• The close artistic, administrative and financial cooperation between the Ensembles and their Musical Directors;
• The generous support of the C.C. Leagues Club in offering the Auditorium free of charge and technical support at
cost;
• Ticketek for sale of tickets and also providing Rotary with a block booking possibility;
• The hiring, transport and installation of mobile stage extensions doubling the area of the Auditorium stage to enable
some 170 musicians to share the extended stage;
• The low cost publicity and promotion of the Concert keeping total costs below 30% of the total takings from ticket
sales;
• The support from many club members and their wives, family members and friends in the front of house welcoming,
program sales and ushering of patrons and V.I.P.’s;
• The “discovery” of Chris Bearman as a popular and entertaining Compere-cum-Conductor;
• The tremendous goodwill generated between all participants encouraging ongoing cooperation on a regular basis;
As a Club we may be proud to have been the initiator and catalyst of a unique fundraising concert of such lasting benefit to the
performers and audiences of Performing Arts on the Central Coast.
The following themes reflect the variety offered over the years:
1998 “Music You Know and Love”
1999 “Proms down Under”
2000 “Movie Matinee”
2001 “Australian Theme”
2002 “Viva Espagna – Ole!”
2003 “Music Makes the World Go Around”
2004 “Regards to Broadway”
2005 “Music of France”
2006 “Shall we Dance”
2007 “Let’s Celebrate” (10th Anniversary)
2008 “The Wild West”
Hank Keulemans
Remarkably Robert Bedwell conducted in all ten Gala Concerts and the Night in Vienna.
Special recognition was offered to two key participants on the 10th Gala Concert in 2007. The then D.G. Pam Pritchard
presented Chris Bearman with a “Paul Harris Fellowship” to enthusiastic acclaim of the Audience, and a Quiet Achiever’s Award
to Claire O’Connor with whole hearted support from all musicians for her incredible contribution as annual Stage Manager and
contact person for all ensembles and with our Club representatives.
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Dangerous as it is to single out individual contributions the following may well be recognised:
• PP Peter Turnbull for his innovation and foresight;
• Ken Young for his generous printing of programmes and posters through Snap Printing and Peter Clarke for Kwik
Kopy in 2007 and 2008;
• Ern Rippon as Probus liaison;
• Bob Pryke, Frank Cross, David Boardman and Jim Buultjens and others ‘front of house’.
• Ushers – Rotaract and Rotarians, Friends of the Orchestra
• Maryke and Henk Keulemans for ticket sales and promotion and as Rotary’s Joint Committee liaison.
The Gala Concert attracted an audience of about 915 in 2007 and is quoted as an indicator for the need of a more appropriate
venue. It is indeed hoped that the improved artistic standards and wide public support will inspire our authorities and ratepayers
to adopt the "Friends of the Performing Arts Precinct" vision splendid.
P.P. Henk Keulemans - 6th April, 2008
GOSFORD DISTRICT HOSPITAL KIOSK
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HAPPY TAPPERS
The Happy Tappers Dance Group for disabled people continues to flourish.
This group was formed in 1992-93 by Kevin Booth with the help of John Williams and for many years was mentored by PP PHF
Frank Cross who recently resigned from the Club. Since that time PP PHF Max Britten has taken over that role.
The time and hard work of the teachers, parents and other supporters over the past 16 years is greatly appreciated by all.
The group of enthusiastic Tappers and their families each year come to one of our dinners and perform for us. Last year a special
feature was the inclusion of Rotarians into the group for a number of dances….imagine????
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Jim Buultjens, Derek Blackstone,Charlie Sherlock, Barry Henwood, Barry McDonald, David Bacon, Cliff Innes, Peter Medlicott
Max Britten, David Robins, Jim Kirkness, Beryl Kirkness
HANDS-ON PROJECT
Hands-on projects are becoming rare in Rotary.
During the Year of PP PHF Max Britten 2005-2006 a large group of our members and their wives worked at renovating and
painting facilities at Fairhaven .
This was a most successful activity and one that was greatly enjoyed by all who attended.
The work was co-ordinated and organized by Dennis Allen.
AuSTRALIA DAY
The Club’s tradition of celebrating Australia Day with the re-enactment of the landing of Governor Phillip and his party at the
waterfront during the City Council’s special day has continued with few breaks.
Lester Marquet, Alan Seberry, Ron Hincksman and Frank Whittington.
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The Honour Guard which has always been trained and drilled by PP
PHF John Phillips OAM.

QuIET ACHIEVERS AWARD
(1st awarded 2001-2002 by President Colin Sheumack)
2001-02 Marie Norman (St Paul’s Kincumber); David Marsh (Parish Council, St Paul’s Kincumber); Frank
Courts (Brisbane Water Historical Society); Elaine Fry (Brisbane Water Historical Society); Madeline
Stephenson (Happy Tappers); Joy Burrows (View, CWA, Church Womens’ Groups); Yvonne Ames (Pink
Ladies).
2002-03 Ester Sennet; Marie Fuller; Elizabeth Bezan; Alison Rigby; Kevin Hooper.
2003-04 Barbara Hooper (Catholic Church Cathecist); Beverley Benson (Anglican Church); Catherine Cole
(Terrigal SLSC, State Treasurer P&C Associations); Stuart Bennett (Terrigal SLSC Stingrays Swim Club);
Ester Sennett (Community Radio, Fairhaven- received her award from the previous year).
2004-05 Ken Shakespeare (Gosford District Hospital Chaplain); Diane Dale; Eric Hodgins (Sailing for Youth);
Doone de Henau.
2005-06 Gail Ransley (Meals on Wheels, Inner Wheel); Marj Strang (Red Cross, St Vincent de Paul); Peter Banks
(Sailability); Helen Walker (Students with Special Needs).
2006-07 Carol Thorning (Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal); Stan Twindley (Sailing Club Activities, Lions, Blue
Light Disco); Vivienne Eagle (Meals on Wheels, Pandora Club, Gosford High School Canteen).
2007-08 Four awardees including Antje Kemety.
PRIDE OF WORKMANSHIP
voCational sErviCEs ProjECts
1998-99 Jason Barton, Emma Kate de Hanau, Pat Nissen, Robert Smith, Christopher Moffat, Margaret Dwarte
1999-00 Graeme Allen (Building), Derek Blackstone (Travel), Stephen and Anne Dornan (Linton Gardens), Von
Harris (Anglican Kincumber) Neil Mitchell (Somersby PS), Viola Vala (Berowra PS)
2000-01 Naomi Lessels (Vet Assistant), Jenny Favelle (NRMA), Paul Lawrence (NRMA), Maureen Young (Snap
Print), Gary Hallett (BW Picture Framing): Glen Eggleston (Camp Hope), Bob Rudd (Surveyor-
Bannister and Hunter)
2001-02 Elizabeth Behan
2002-03 Jennifer Bessant, Ron Burns, Ariella Whitelum, Peter Noble, Debra Andrews.
2003-04 Colleen Kirk (St Patrick’s Catholic Church), Bruce Charlton (Gem Setter/Jeweller), Phil Moore (Gosford
City Council), Terry Jenkins (Handbrake Turn)
2004-05 Rav Seaman, Larry McMurthrie, Tracey Douglas, Jan Henderson, Gerry Boila
2005-06 Alison Gibbs (Bar- Gosford Golf Club), Mark Hansen (Coast Care Video), Suzanne van Putten (Sec for
Bob Husk-dinner attendance register each week)
2006-07 Barry Parker (Creative ID Umina), Gail Cosentino (Regional Youth Support Service), Ben Hart (Painter),
Sue Loane (Newsagent employee); Mary Rathbone (Clinical Nurse and Educator at Gosford District
Hospital), Julie Carrington (Manager Bendigo Bank, East Gosford)
2007-08 Donna Bevitt (Human Resources and Administration Manager-Fairhaven), Melodyann Bray (Manager
Community First Credit Union); Dianne Marriott (Team Leader Red Cross Social Support Services),
David and Phyllis Graham (Central Coast Tennis Academy)
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INTERACT
YoutH sErviCE ProjECts
Interact continues strongly at Henry Kendall High School.
One of their members Grace Mulligan was sponsored by the Club as a member of the crew of the Young Endeavour in 2008.
A tree from a seed from Lone Pine at Gallipoli was planted at the school during a most impressive ceremony with members of
the School, representatives from the RSL and members of the Rotary Club of Gosford in attendance.
Jim Kirkness continues his involvement which extends back over many years … he was involved in the formation of the Interact
Club and has battled over the years to keep it going and to reach the excellent standard it now enjoys.
INTERACT CLUB OF HENRY KENDALL HIGH SCHOOL
Presidents....
1998-99 Shannon Upton 1999-00 Michael Peterson
2000-01 Luke Keith 2001-02 Shane Edwards
2002-03 Luke Edwards 2003-04 Mark Cosgrove
2004-05 Rebecca Segalla 2005-06 Rebecca Segalla
2006-07 Grace Timbs 2007-08 Grace Timbs
2008-09 Lauren Monachino
RYDA
Rotary Youth Driver Award Programme continues to grow and fill a great need in the community.
The Principals and Staff of almost every High School on the Coast enthusiastically support this scheme. Every Rotary Club and
the Police have become involved. Several days are needed to fit all Year 11 students into the day of information and training.
This project has involved much work by David Robins who also has a position on the State RYDA scheme.
MuNA AND NYSF
We have supported Model United Nations Assembly with a number of students from Gosford High School being sponsored.
National Youth Science Forum has continued to be supported over the past ten years.
RYLA
1998-99 No nominee
1999-00 Kevin Coote, Bernadette Speziale chosen but did not attend.
2000-01 Edwin Levack 2001-02 Melanie Lieshke, Ben Warren
2002-03 Kimberley Perry, Minnie MacDougall, Blake O’Brien
2003-04 Janet McKelvey 2004-05 Lyndsay Schietel
2005-06 no nominee 2006-07 Alexis Bell
2007-08 no nominee
YOuTH EXCHANGE PROGRAMME
1998-99 In - Jenni Laitinen (Finland) Out - Amanda Jones (Belgium)
1999-00 In-Luca Valli (Switzerland) Out - Rosemary Scarvo from Gladesville (Sweden)
2000-01 Nil
2001-02 Nil
2002-03 Nil
2003-04 Nil
2004-05 In - Kanae Hashiva Out - Kerryn Brent (Japan)
2005-06 In - expecting boy from Canada
2006-07 In - Kirk Stephenson (Canada)
2007-08 In - Thomas Alexandre (Belgium) Out - Mitchell Innes (Belgium)
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THE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING CHALLENGE
The Science and Engineering Challenge on the Central Coast is a joint project between
the University of Newcastle and the Gosford Rotary Club involving the youth in our
community, to develop an interest in the sciences and engineering as a career for the
future.
HISTORY
The first challenge took place on the Central Coast in 2000 at the Central Coast Youth
Club and Niagara Park Community Centre. The first event in 2000 was a trial to see
if the format and content would appeal to both the students and schools, the aim was
to stimulate the students interest in the subjects of science and engineering at a year
10 level, this was critical to ensure they took the right subjects in years 11 and 12 if
they wished to go onto University for a Science or Engineering degree. During the 90’s
interest in these two degrees fell dramatically to more popular degrees, to such a level that
a critical shortage of Engineers and Scientist existed across Australia.
To trial the Challenge, the University of Newcastle developed a set of games, a mixture of 1/2 and full day duration, some 250
students attended the first Challenge. The University, with support from Engineers Australia required assistance in the form of
Supervisors. At this point PP Terry Devine was asked if he could supply some help in the form of supervisors from the Gosford
Rotary Club. When I attended the first day it was easy to see what a success this project was going to be. After discussion with
Board members it was recommended that we as a Club stay involved on a yearly basis and to support the project with Donations
for prizes and assistance to run each event, this we have done every year since 2000. In 2001 due to the popularity of the
Challenge on the Central Coast and in the northern part of the state, Regions were formed and during that year on behalf of the
Gosford Rotary Club I became Regional Chair for Central Coast. Each year some 15 schools across the Coast (both public and
private) half on one day the other half on the next (we average around 250 students each day) and the scores are tallied at the
end of each day, this is the basic level of the Challenge competition and is called the Regional Challenge. The Schools with the
first and second highest scores over the two days are declared the winners of the Regional Challenge. The winners of the Regions
proceed to another Challenge called a Super Challenge to determine the Winners at zone level.
The Challenge spread and zones were formed in the northern half of the state, South Australia, Southern Queensland, Brisbane,
Country Victoria, Western Australia and Sydney. As a result of this expansion the winners of each Zone Super Challenge were
required to compete against one another to determine a National Winner and a Grand Challenge is held to find the winner.
This year the University of Newcastle held its first International Challenge in Singapore, there is little doubt the event will go
International on a large scale.
This year 2008 the Challenge will be nine years old, our Club was the first Rotary Club to be involved, and has had the longest
continuous involvement. I have served as the Regional Chair Central Coast for this period. Each year I submit to the current
Ron Collins, Milton Frazer, Allen Eagle, Barry Morris and Paul Andersen
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Barry Morris

Board of Gosford Rotary Club a request to support the Challenge for the coming year by providing members over the two days
to act as supervisors and a donation to purchase the awards to each school for participation in the event, and awards for the two
top winners over the two days. The Rotary Club of Gosford is engraved on each award. The club has applied and will host the
2010 National Grand Challenge (10th Anniversary).
ITEMS OF INTEREST
This would be one of the longest continuous projects the Rotary Club of Gosford has been involved with in nine years counting
2008.
Gosford Rotary Club has supplied in excess of 200 man days in the form of members acting as supervisors.
The Gosford Rotary Club has made donations in excess of $16,000 over the years we have supported the Challenge.
Since the inception in 2000, over 4000 plus students on the Central Coast have attended the Challenge.
The following Presidents have supported and donated to the Challenge.
1999-00 PP PHF Alan Seberry
2000-01 PP PHF David Boardman
2001-02 PP PHF Colin Sheumack
2002-03 PP PHF Malvinda Singh
2003-04 PP Paul Andersen
2004-05 PP PHF Bob Pryke
2005-06 PP PHF Max Britten
2006-07 PP David Bacon
2007-08 P Cliff Innes
PP PHF Barry Morris,
Regional Chair Central Coast, Science and Engineering Challenge
FILM FESTIVAL AND CIRCuS QuIRKuS
In 1999, PP PHF Jim Kirkness OAM learnt of a
fundraising opportunity which was based on a Children’s
Film Festival which was already operating in Sydney.
Our Club entered into a partnership with International
Entertainment (New Zealand) and their local promoter.
We approved a telemarketing script which was used to
contact Central Coast businesses seeking sponsorship
for local underprivileged children and their families.
Their sponsorship financed tickets for the children and
their families to attend the Film Festival which was held
in early December each year. We began in PP David
Boardman’s year (2000-2001) and it has continued each
year since that time.
Our Club’s contribution has been liaising with the
promoter, finding suitable office space, providing actual
support on the days at the Erina Cinema Complex and
lending our good name to the project.
Members at Central Coast Leagues Club
In 2005, after discussions with the company, they introduced Circus Quirkus (to replace the Film Festival) which had been
running successfully in NSW and Queensland for some time. This was a non-animal circus featuring clowns, unicyclists,
tumblers, balancing acts, etc.
It was held at the Central Coast Leagues Club in January, 2006 and was very successful. There were three sessions on that day
and over 2000 parents and children attended.
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PP Bob Pryke has been the Club Co-ordinator since its inception to the end of 2008 and it has raised over $200,000 for the
Central Coast Community.
Short History of the Children’s Film Festival
The Club’s major fundraiser commenced in December, 2000. This involves contacting all businesses on the Central Coast to
sponsor special needs children to attend the movies at Erina Fair Hoyts Theatre. Over 200 children, over two weekends have been
provided with a choice of 4 new release films, popcorn, a drink and a balloon for a fun outing. Local businesses have supported
the project well above initial expectations.
There are two winners each year … the special needs children and the Central Coast Community. Funds raised and the major
beneficiaries have been…
2000 $22,210 Central Coast Volunteer Rural Fire Service
2001 $24,045 Central Coast Surf Lifesaving and Camp Hope
2002 $26,001 Central Coast SES
2003 $29,988 Central Coast Volunteer Rural Fire Service and Careflight
2004 $28,799 Learning for Life Programme and Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol
2005 $28,254 Youth Arts Warehouse - Parkside Youth Centre
This year saw a change to Circus Quirkus … non animal circus for special needs children.
2006 $30,126 Australian Rotary Health Foundation and Smith Family
2007 $29,369 Adeline Village and Shelter Box
2008 $20,222 Coast Shelter and Central Coast Lifesaving
intErnational sErviCE ProjECts
CHIEF BENJAMIN IJuMI – Our most distant member!
For a number of years Benjamin Ijumi has been a visitor to our Club as a guest of PP PHF John Phillips. He has been an
honoured guest at our Club , at local Schools and at the Anzac March or the Battle for Australia ceremonies.
In recent times he has visited during the Battle for Australia Celebrations in August/September.
In September 2006, he was inducted as an Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Gosford. On every occasion when he
has come to Australia he has been accompanied by two ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’, the most famous and well-known of whom was
Raphael Oembari, who appeared in one of the most famous and emotive photographs of WW11. The photo was taken on
Christmas Day 1942 by New Zealand photographer, George Silk.
The picture below shows Private George (Dick) Whittington of the 2/10th Infantry Battalion, 7th Australian Division, stick in
hand being led by a very young Raphael Oembari, who came from Hanau Village near Buna, where Whittington was wounded
in the head.
Raphael was one of 14 Hanau Village men who were Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels
(officially known as ANGAU (Australian New Guinea Administrative Unit)
Carriers.
Raphael passed away in Hanau Village in July, 1996 in his mid eighties.
Chief Benjamin Ijumi
FUZZY WUZZY ANGEL Raphael Oembari
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GEnEral mattErs
98

INNER WHEEL CLuB OF GOSFORD
JOHN CONNOLLY
99
President secretary treasurer
1998-99 Marj Husk Joyce Dunn Nancy Lowe
1999-00 Meg Leggett Joyce Dunn Nancy Lowe
2000-01 Gail Ransley Nancy Lowe Melvy Adams
2001-02 Gail Ransley Nancy Lowe Melvy Adams
2002-03 Hazel Howells Nancy Lowe Melvy Adams
2003-04 Meg Leggett Nancy Lowe Gail Ransley
2004-05 Hazel Howells Nancy Lowe Gail Ransley
2005-06 Marj Husk Melvy Adams Gail Ransley
2006-07 Bev McDonald Melvy Adams Gail Ransley
2007-08 Hazel Howells Melvy Adams Bev McDonald
2008-09 Cecily Roberts Meg Leggett Hazel Howells
At the end of the 2005-06 Rotary year Current President Dr John Connolly was awarded “A Companion of the Australian
Rotary Health Research Fund”, The photograph shows John receiving his award from the then President Max Britten.

WOuLD YOu BELIEVE
1. When Mal Singh was President 25 new members were inducted!
mEmbErsHiP DEvEloPmEnt 2002-2003
What a year it was for membership growth for the Rotary Club of Gosford.
President Mal, stirred on by the sad loss of three of our members just before he took office, worked tirelessly to increase our
Club numbers.
Twenty five (25) members were inducted during the year. (NB - this an average of 1 new member each fortnight). One of
these, Leo Powell, was put forward by John Adams - the other 24 were nominated and encouraged by President Mal.
There must be a couple of records of some kind here!!
Our numbers on Change-over Night will be 79 plus 3 Honorary Members.
Membership on 4/7/02 57
Inductions 25
Deduct 1 Honorary and resignations by 1 new member and 1 old member.
(increase) 22
Total membership 79 + 3 Honorary
We are now the largest Club in District 9680 which has 68 Clubs.
Limerick by Past President Lester Marquet
Club President Malvinder Singh
Said, “new members to our club I will bring”
But he is causing some ructions
With twenty five new inductions
T’is truly and incredible thing.
2. Paul Andersen is pictured with Julie Turnbull, Cathy Maher and Laura Pratt all of whom had spent some time in Indonesia.
(All had attended Henry Kendall High School)
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4. Former member Chris Scott presented two fine boxes which he had
made in memory of his father, Les Scott, a former President of our
Club, to the then President Bishop Colin Sheumack.
5. PP PHF Jim Kirkness OAM was debagged on his last night in Apex!
6. In the past ten years, the Club has awarded 15 Paul Harris
Fellowships.
7. Ten sets of Fathers and Sons have been members of our Club…..
Dick and Allen Eagle, Bruce and Bruce (Jnr) Hanks, Bernie and Patrick
O’Donoghue, Les and Chris Scott, Alf and Maurie Sterland, Bob and
Neville Wallwork, Earl and Richard Waterhouse, Os and Wal Young,
Jim and Jeff Gay, Garnet and Van Adcock.
Peter Turnbull and (son-in-law) David Tawyer.
Brothers Adrian and Errol Hickey, Bill and Bert Ghersi. Bob Vaughan
and (son-in-law) Bob Pryke.
8. The Trust almost reached $300,000 before the financial crash.
9. Rotarians whose sons and daughters have married … Alan Seberry
and Kevin Booth, Malcolm Brooks and John Phillips.
10. PP PHF Terry Devine has had the pleasure of having two
of his former students as members of the Club …David Bacon
(Coonabarabran High School) and Jim Katrakilis (Henry Kendall High
School).
11. We sent one of out Interacters, Grace Mulligan, from Henry
Kendall High School as a crew member on the Young Endeavour in 2008.
3. Benjamin Ijumi is our most distant Rotarian…he lives in
Papua New Guinea and has the classification of “Chief of
Kokoda”. He is pictured (left) addressing the Club during one
of his visits for “The Battle for Australia” celebrations.
12. Bob Pryke, David Bacon, Cliff Innes, David Robins, Dennis Allen, Wally Hammer and Charlie Sherlock were recently
awarded the State Governor’s Medal for Service during the emergency when storms swept the Central Coast in Easter 2007.
13. Several members invaded Erina Fair to sell trifecta tickets for the Melbourne Cup of 2007 and 2008. A very successful
money raiser and a pleasant working scheme organized in 2007 by Barry McDonald and in 2008 by David Boardman.
14. The Club has had a ‘Welfare Officer’ for some years now. PP PHF Jim Kirkness OAM has filled this position … he
contacts sick members, our widows and some of our past members. He keeps the Club informed each week and continually
passes on the best wishes of the Club and its members to anyone in hospital or unwell at home. He has established a beautiful
practice of presenting new widows with a rose to plant in memory of our departed member.
15. One of our members PP PHF Max Britten who farms chooks, avocados and oranges has made large continuing
contributions to the Club’s coffers by donating fruit from his orchards and selling to Club members and golfers each week.
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16. Several members have been members of the Armed Services …
Milton Frazer---RANR Kevin Grey---Army Jim Kirkness---Merchant Navy
Kevin Winterbottom---Army John Neuhaus---RAAF Keith Bolton---Army
Bill Pile---RAAF Eric Goldswain-Army Craig Duncan –Army
Ralph Mortimer---RAN Errol Hickey--RAAF Gordon Martin-Paratroops
Bill Hunt-Sharman---RN Doug Newton---Army Alan Skepper---Army
Tom Rowlands---RAN Neville Mills---Army Les McCarthy---Army
Syd Noble---Army Bruce Douglas---Army Ron Sky---Army
Jack Daven---RAN Olaf Spence---Army Frank Cross –Army
Wally Hammer---RAN Bob Pryke---Nat Service Terry Devine –Nat Service
Bob Husk---British Navy
17. Members of our interact club (The Interact Club of Henry Kendall High School) purchased a seedling grown from the
seeds from Lone Pine at Gallipoli and planted it in the School grounds.
18. The original Charter of the Club which was believed to be destroyed in the fire in the Gosford RSL Club has turned up …
apparently someone has had it all of these years and has passed it on to PP PHF* Mal Singh who will present it to the Club.
19. PP PHF Keith Bolton, aged 89, passed away in December, 2008 in Grenfell where he had retired. Keith joined Grenfell
Rotary in 1951, Gosford in 1958, Woy Woy in 1963, Gosford in 1965 and Grenfell in 2002. Except for the most recent times
Keith had the honour of maintaining 100% attendance for all of his 57 years in Rotary. A fantastic achievement!!
20. President (2008-09) John Connolly first joined Rotary in 1955 in Babinda, Queensland.
21. Citing Service to Rotary, the Gosford City Council recognised PP PHF* Malvinder Singh as Senior Citizen of the Year in
2008.
CLASSIFICATION COMPARISONS -- Charter Club versus Current Club
CLASSIFICATION Charter Current
Accountancy 1
Banking 3
Building 1 4
Technology & Equipment 2
Computers 1
Engineers 2
Education 3
Electrician 1
Farming/Agriculture 5 6
Finance Planning/Management 4
Local Government 1
Legal 1
Medical 2 2
Motor Trade 1 3
Oil Distribution 1
Press 1
Pharmacy 1 1
Printing 1
Pilot 1
Real Estate 1 2
Retail 5 1
Surveying 1
Travel 1
Valuation 1
Village Chief 1
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CLuB MEMBERS OF ROTARY SINCE 1945
Name Partner Classification
Adams John Merran 211099 Med-Occupational Health
Adcock Garnet PP 1948 Fruit Juice Manufacturer
Adcock Van PP Peg 1957 Fruit Juice Manufacturer
Adderley Peter Mami 191008 Computer Education
Albury Edward 1957 Police
Allen Dennis Jennifer 011296 Building Contractor
Allen Ray Dorise 1975 Salvation Army
Andersen Paul PP Robyn 171100 Agric Management
Andrews Max Grace 1962 Plumber
Angledal Sven Margareth 010285 Med Supply Wholesale
Ansell Bill Elaine 1976 Bookkeeping
Arbie Vern PHF Marie 011177 Travel Agent
Arkins Tom PP Jean FC1945 Printer
Arms Barry Shirley 1977 Insurance
Arnerbark Jan Michelle 010192 Machinery Importer
Aveling Ted 1963 Machinery Sales
Bacon David Samantha 260204 Careers Management
Bailey Peter 1983 Engineering
Baker Dennis Elena 140405 Plant Physiology
Baldwin Raymond Patricia 010588 Banking
Bamborough Thomas 1960
Bampton Noel Judy 1975 Railways
Bannister Leonard Joan Charter 12/45 Surveying
Barling John 1982 Banking
Barwick James 1955 Education Secondary
Bass Graeme Doreen 82; 010590 Motel Management
Bastian Ken 1973 Menswear Retail
Bennett Ernest FC1945 Farmer
Berg Keith Betty 1966 Newspaper Publishing
Berry Doug Dorothy C12/45 Builder
Bezer Bruce Colleen 1976 Builder
Blackstone Derek Teresa 101002 Travel Agent
Blaird M 1973
Blamey Eric PDG PHF Elva 1979 Bread Manufacturer
Boardman David PP PHF Lorraine 87:010495 Finance Planning
Bolton Keith PP PHF Gwen 1958 Real Estate
Booth Kevin OAM PP PHF Nancye 040376 Auto Retail
Boukley George 1973
Bowen John Bea 1958 Drugs Retail
Bowen Niels Ann 1975 Drugs Retail
Brennan Ian Margo 1976 Law Conveyancing
Brennan Leonard C3/46 Motion Pictures
Bridge Richard Sue 080503 Info Technology
Bristow John Christine 150905 Elec Vehicle Distribution
Britten Max PP PHF Noreen 010686 Mixed Farming
Brooks Malcolm OAM PP PHF Tricia 010379 Auto Retail
Brown Sherwin Ruth 1966 Security Broker
Browne Ronald 1951 Monumental Mason
Burke Allan Marguerite 1966 Glassware Importer
Butt Leo 1954 Builder
103
Name Partner Classification
Buultjens James Maeve 010705 Disability Employment
Cahill Ted 1975 Police Inspector
Callaghan Graham 010992 Banker
Campbell Keith Rita 1966 Ambulance Service
Carroll Reginald Sen Act Freda 1946 Dentistry
Casier Leon 1950 Retailing
Cathcart Noel 1984 Lifeline Manager
Cawthorn Peter 1992 Human Resources
Chapman Trevor Elaine 1977 Real Estate
Clark Eric PP Pat 010878 Soil Conservation
Clark Frank 1955 Police
Clark Malcolm 1985
Clarke Peter Jane 131206 Printer
Collett Major Ruth 120847 Radio Retail
Collins Ian PP PHF Mary 290404 Medicine
Collins Ron Kaye 211099 Mixed Farmer
Conlon Snow 011195 Engineering Manufacture
Connolly John Noreen 55/030676 Surgeon
Cooper Jim 1984 Finance
Corcoran John Myra 1974 Law Conveyancing
Corigan Patrick 150503 Theatre Management
Corner John Sen Act PP Gwen 1948 Oil Distribution
Cosier Roy Margaret 010886 Christianity
Cowlishaw John Pam 1987 Banking
Cowper John 010393 Insurance
Cox Russell PP PHF Gloria 010981 Police Admin
Crawford Frederick 1957
Creamer David Christine 100501 Accountancy
Croft Phillip Valda 010878 Advert Directory
Cross Francis AM DSM PP PHF Lyla 010691 Antique Dealer
Cusack Alton 1970 Publican
Dalton Vern
Daven John Jean 1954 Electrician
Davis Bill Holly 1960 Grocery Distribution
Dedden Keith PP 010991 Local Govt Admin
Dekker Jerome Lin 111203 Hospitality
Devine Terry PP PHF Elizabeth 010582 Education Secondary
Dibben Roy Viv 1966 Newspaper Publishing
Dornan Lynn PP PHF Valerie 010979 Lemon Farming
Douglas Bruce PP Joy 1960 Retailing
Douglas James C3/46 Education Primary
Dowling John 1965 Medicine
Drielsma Hans Nanette 010689 Forestry
Duck John 011191 Forestry
Duncan Craig Margaret 1960 Medicine
Dunstan Max 99; 180702 Credit Unions
Dyring Ed PP PHF Helen 68; 010694 Postal Service
Eagle Allan PP Vivienne 1970 Real Estate
Eagle Dick PP Irene 1951 Truck Retail
Earnshaw Joseph 1947 Cycle Retail
Easey Hugh C3/46
Easterman Oscar Ella 1966 Real Estate

Name Partner Classification Name Partner Classification
Eddy Reginald Alma 1959 Motel Management
Edwards Arthur 1991
Eller John 1985 Radio Stations
Ellis Jack 1966 Hardware
Ellis Ray Mary 1969 Building Materials
Enderby Keith 1st Treasurer FC 1945 Banking
Evans Derek 030497 Oil/Gas Engineer
Everson Neil Michelle 80; 250702 Valuer
Fauchon Mark 221098 Caterer
Feltham Edward 1960 Real Estate
Ferrier Ross Sharon 2005 Medicine
Flakelar John Elizabeth 011183 Surveying
Flynn Greg 050298 Town Planner
Foott William Eileen 1957 Plant /Seed Retail
Ford Col 1967 Presbyterianism
Fowler David 1963 Mt Penang Admin
Frazer Milton 1970 Oil Distribution
French Harry Daphne 220109 Ship Broker
Frewin Gwynne 1947 Blacksmith
Frost Alan PP 1955 Builder
Gannon Owen Pat 1965 Recreation Admin
Gardiner Bob 1972 Law
Gardner Graham Nancy 1966 Insurance
Garnham John Dorothy 1978 Banking
Gatiff Harry Opal 010593 Electrician
Gay Jeffrey 251104 Tool Supplies
Gay Jim Joan 1966 Gas Distribution
Ghersi Bert PP Eileen 1955 Orange Grower
Ghersi William Edna 1956 Farmer
Gibson Sydney 1957 Life Assurance
Gibson Terrance PP Raili 010293 Civil Engineer
Gilchrist Duncan Judith 251105 Careers Management
Godsell Ric Betty 301068 Newsagent
Goldberg Steven 170797 Hypnotherapist
Golswain Eric PHF Edna 1960 Mixed Farming
Graham Les AM Lesley C3/46; 1974 Auto Retail
Grant Bill 1983 Local Govt
Grebert Len Peggy 1966 Bus Services
Green Errol Phyl 1988 Police Admin
Green Stan Judy 1980 Plumber
Grenfell Geoffrey PDG PP PHF Margaret 080170 Architect
Grey Kevin PHF Jan 010796 Const Ind Catalogi
Grieve Ronald FC1945 Dry Cleaner
Hallett John 1955 Railways
Halliday Malcolm Margaret 010769 Driving School
Hammer Walter Susan 220905 Electrician
Hancock Stanley 1659 Police
Hanks Bruce Diana 86; 270203 Economic Devel
Hanks Bruce (Senior) PP PHF Marian 1969 Auto Retail
Harris George 1985 Hardware Retail
Harris Ian Edith 1967 Fruit Processor
Harris Leigh Odette 061108 Financial Management
104
Harrison Tony Joy 120708 Bus tech & equip
Hartcher Chris MP Elizabeth 300102 Parliamentarian
Hartshorne Trevor 1987 Real Estate
Harvey Ewart PP Joyce 1959 Jewellery Retail
Hayhurst John Barbara 110908 Home improvemnet
Hayne Eric Jean 1965 Banking
Heathwood Bob Barbara 1984 Banking
Hely Carl C7/46 Entymologist
Henwood Barry Anna 011296 Commercial Pilot
Herd Ken 1972 Ambulance
Hickey Adrian PP 1st Sgt FC1945 Law
Hickey Errol Frances 1954 Law
Hickey Leo 1964 Education Secondary
Hickson Bill Norma 010288 Consultant Engineer
Hill Eric 1947 Real Estate
Hill Trevor PP C/46 Laundry
Hincksman Ron Desley 241096 Property Investment
Hine Arthur Mabel 1966 Edu Technical
Hitchcock John 1951 Oil Retailing
Hobbs Cecil 1957 Tailor
Hodge Garry Christine 011184 Photographer
Holcombe Victor Joy 1954 Building Consultant
Hood Bill Marjorie 1965 Banking
Hooper Greg Amy Cheng 200203 Management Training
Hosking Warren Vicki 010895 Accountant
Hudson Donald 1948 Retail
Hughes David Janine 120401 Finance Consultant
Highes Eric 1952 Banking
Humphries David 270600 Chamber Commerce
Hunter Albert PP PHF Claire 1966 Surveyor
Huntington Cal 1960 Guest House Prop
Husk Robert PP PHF Marjory 011290 Accountant
Ible Wayne 080201 Education Secondary
Ijumi Benjamin Lillian Bisa Ijumi Chief of Kokoda
Innes Clifford Sandra 270400 Accountant
Ironmonger Eric C7/46 Printer
Jackson John PP Mary 1964 Oil Distribution
Jacobson John 1970 Ambulance
Jeffries Bruce 1963
Johnston Bill Elizabeth 010878 Poultry Farmer
Johnstone Garry 011192 Accountant
Jones Graham Anne 141196 Chicken Farmer
Katrakilis James Belinda 020807 Chicken Farmer
Keith Harvey 1966 Taxi Services
Kellett Max Beverley 1979 Auto Retail
Kerrison George Betty 1976 Education Technical
Kesby Leslie 1963 Pharmacy
Keulemans Henk PP PHF Maryke 011180 Law
Kiely Temple 1955 Agric Research
King Nev Betty 1968 Railways
Kirkness James OAM PP PHF Beryl 051162 Engineer
Knock Ken 010185 Club Admin

Name Partner Classification Name Partner Classification
Knox John 1985 Banking
Laird Noel Betty 1974 Insurance
Lansdowne Benjamin 1955 Electroplating
Lawson Jim PP PHF Robyn 030584 Electrical Engineer
Leask Gordon Con 1948 Orange Growing
Lees Mark Julia 83; 130504 Med Rescue Admin
Lillicrap Arthur 1947 Farmer
Lindsay David Pat 1964 Medicine
Linsell Harry Janette 120398 Retirement Village Admin
Little Jack FC1945 Men’s Wear Retail
Lord Harry FC1945 Orchardist
Loxley Larry Lyn 010395 Air Condition Service
Lundhall Siggy Margareth 010289 Capital Investment
Lynch Tom PP 1st President FC1945 Banking
MacDonald Jim Audrey 1962 Steel Fabrication
MacDonald Athol Betty 1964 Men Clothing Retail
Mackell Francis 1961 Garage Proprietor
Maddox Murray Laurie 1969 Capital Investment
Madsen Henning Maria 76; 010288 Medicine
Manning James 1947 Barber
Manning Richard 1950 Postal Services
Manning Stanley OAM Jan 170403 Aged Care Consult
Margin Maxwell 1959 Soft Drink Manufacture
Marquart Gabriel Deborah 300103 Steel Fabrication
Marquet Lester PP PHF Wendy 180681 Education Primary
Marshall Bob PHF 1969 Christianity
Martin Gordon Laura 1964 Steel Fabrication
Maugham Howard Kath 1966 Music Instr Retail
McCarthy John 1948
McCarthy Les AM PP PHF June 1955 Newsagency
McCloskey Peter PP Pat 120200 160507 Charity Admin
McCredie Bob 1984 Medicine
McDiarmid Jock 1965 Motels
McDonald Barry Beverley 230503 Textiles Manf Ad
McDonald Christopher Vicki 121000 Civil Engineer
McFarland Alex Lila 1966 Education Inspector
McGillivray Alan 1969 Agriculture
McGillivray Kenneth C7/46 Fruit Inspector
McLachlan Arch PP PHF Jean 1956 Baker
McLeay Douglas 1959
McLeod Bill Judith 1965 Presbyterianism
McNab Len Rosemary 160487 Education Secondary
Meard Ken 1973
Medicott Peter Margaret 140101 Farming Investment
Meggitt Eric C6/46 Real Estate
Meldrum James 1957 Real Estate
Melkonian Harry 270297 Insurance
Mills Fred 1971 Ceramic Tiles
Mills Neville Belle 1947 Delicatessen
Moore Matthew Jane 010994 Accountant
Morris Barry PP PHF Margaret 88; 010894 Telecommunication
Mortimer Ralph May 1962 Drapery Retail
105
Moses Bob Beryl 1965 Banking
Moss Murray 1961 Chicken Farmer
Motte Peter Lila 301086 Stockbroker
Muir Paul 2003
Murray Bob June 1966 Bakery
Naining Alf 1970
Neil Edward 1957 Newspaper Admin
Neuhaus John PP Gillian 120484 Wool Growing
Newell Vincent Kian 010994 Podiatry
Newton Douglas PHF Nancy 151283 Banking
Nichols David Sharon 160605 Real Estate
Nind John 1972 Insurance
Noble Sidney 1959 Auto Dealer
O’Donnell Edgar 1950 Banking
O’Donoghue Bernard Rita 1953 Accountant
O’Donoghue Patrick Lee-ann 101293 Accountant
Oldfield Lew 070598 Local Govt Engineer
Olsen Ole Inger 1986 Publisher
O’Shea Robert Helen 1985 Movie House Admin
Parsons Toby 1947
Patterson Jack 010188 Banking
Paul Jim 1st President Elect PP 2nd President FC1945 Medicine
Pearsall Barry Nancy 1978 Education Secondary
Perry Larry Fran 1966 Felt Manufacture
Perry Max Beth 301093 Accountant
Pettigrew David 131193 Education Technical
Phillips John OAM PP PHF Allison 131184 Pharmacy
Pile Bill Joy 53; 180491 Driving School
Pluim Bill PP 1963 Builder
Plummer Thomas FC1945 Bank Valuer
Podryhula Oleh Annette 151205 Bank Financial Planner
Poldon Norman 1958 Child Welfare
Pollard Bob Lisa 120603 Retail
Pollitt Bill Patricia 1984 Banking
Porter Harvey PP Pat 1960 Concrete Manufacture
Potts Robert (Bob) PP 1954 Real Estate
Powell Leo 281102 Corporate Trainer
Pratt John PP PHF Geraldine 281078 Bookseller
Proctor Gordon 1953 Radio Sales
Pryke Bob PP PHF Bronwyn 021195 Education Secondary
Pullen Frank Rhonda 1973 Law Admin Gov
Pullin Norman 1959 Anglicanism
Quirk John 1987 Banking
Quodling Patrick 1950 Bank Valuer
Ransley Kevin Gail 030981 Electrician
Ranzetta Vic Amanda 170806 Law
Reid Bill Betty 66/1977 Jewellery Retail
Reid Laurie 1968 Methodist
Reynolds Eric Kath 301077 Deer Farmer
Rippon Ernest Eileen 150373 Citrus Research
Robarts William 1950
Roberts Jack 1966 Bus Services

Name Partner Classification Name Partner Classification
Roberts John Eilen 1956 Bus Services
Roberts Michael Rosemary 170395 Finance Planning
Robins David Elizabeth 060203 Auto Tecnician
Robson Keith 1984 Banking
Rose Ian 1970
Rowlands Tom 1963 Painter
Rylah Rod Joan 300594 Finance Planning
Sainsbury Albert 1962 Postal Services
Santry Noel Nikki 1977 Pest Control
Sarooshi Ruhi Ruby 300692 Citrus Research
Sawtell John Kerrie 060804 Agric Computing
Scholtz Manfred Margaret 1971 Travel Services
Scott Bob Marilyn 1978 Broadcasting Admin
Scott Cec PP FC1945 Co-operatives
Scott Chris Kristine 061197 Builder
Scott Les PP Sue 1978 Gov Fruit Adviser
Seberry Alan PP PHF Fran 151092 Fruit Storage Res
Secomb Jim Merillee 78; 010793 Christianity
Sellers Garry 1980 Dept Store Retail
Setori Brian 1961
Sewell Bob Sue 96; 171203 Agric Contracting
Sharman Ben Jean 1963 Sawmiller
Shaw Graham 1950
Sherlock Charles Monika 040903 Auditor
Sheumack Colin Bishop PP PHF 190997 Christianity
Showers Bob 1973
Shumack Kevin Shirley 300879 Optometry
Simpson Peter 1992
Singh Malvinder PP PHF Heather 220379 Civil Engineer
Skepper Allan PHF Jean 011171 Gov Fruit Admin
Skinner Harold Ruth 1966 Salvation Army
Sky Ron PP Millie 1962 Ice Cream Distributor
Small James 1948 Plumber
Smith Donald Isabel 211102
Smith Frank Lorraine 1979 Elect Equip Manuf
Smith Jim Dawn 300675 Citrus Farmer
Smith Patrick Marie 301075 Law Magistrate
Speers John FC1945 Dentist
Spence Olaf 1947 Medicine
Sprague John 1980 Auto Electrician
Staples Charles FC1945 Newspaper Admin
Stephenson Peter PP 1970 Oil Distribution
Sterland Alfred 1950 Hardware Retail
Sterland Maurice Mavis 1957 Hardware Retail
Stocks George 1959 Architect
Stokes Jon Lyn 230103 Pub Policy Development
Stone Len 300758 Horticulture
Strada Sam Mary 010994 Motels
Swain Graham AD Act Kathy 1975 Architect
Swan Alan PP Marie 010569 Veterinary Services
Tarbox Jim Marion 1979 Concrete Masonary
Tasman-Smith Bob 1966 Stockbroker
106
Tate Frank Margaret 1978 Auto Engineer
Tawyer David Elizabeth 061103 Real Estate
Tegel Norman FC1945 Butchery
Tenfalt Eric 1994 Textiles Manf
Thew Roy PP FC1945 Local Govt
Thomas Cog 1965 Education Secondary
Timmins Claude 1961 Police
Tonkin Jim 1976
Trask George Elsie 1963 Local Govt
Traveller Max PP PHF 1958 Brickworks Prop
Tremlett Ross 010590 Truck Sales
Treston Peter PP Margaret 1982 Law
Turnbull Peter PP PHF Arlene 1973 Capital Investment
Tye David Leonie 160798 Painter Decorator
Vaughan Bob MBE PP Valda 1952 Brick Manufacture
Vaughan Ron PP Verona FC1945 Pharmacy
Vidler Noel Anne 1973 Printer
Waddell Michael Carolyn 300103 Building Consultant
Walker David C2/46 Sawmiller
Walker John Marj 1975 Criminal Investigation
Wallwork Neville OAM Iris 1967 Footwear Retail
Wallwork Robert Amy C6/46 Ambulance
Walpole Len Mary 1969 Education Secondary
Walsh Joseph 1961 Painter
Walters Graeme Denise 100403 Rural Supplies
Walters Ian Joyce 1966 Hospitals
Walters John Chris 060907 Business Broking
Waterhouse Earle Nancy 1959 Education Inspector
Waterhouse Richard Grace 080201 Education Tertiary
Waters Glen 171002
Webster Terry Lynette 011287 Newspaper Publishing
Weir Aub 1972
West Norman 1947 Open Air Theatre
Whalan Mick PP Robyn 011285 Shopping Centres
Wharton Chris Donna 021091 Newspaper Publishing
Whittaker Charles Coral 1974 Sport Goods Prop
Whittington Frank Chris 260807 Mining Accountant
Willenberg Darrieux Valerie 230103 Systems Analyst
Williams John PP PHF Bettina 050776 Avionics
Williams Ted Marie 1977 Banking
Wilson Len Emmaline 1977 Invalid Aids Retail
Wilson Max Dearne 1985 Banking
Winterbottom Kevin Maureen 53; 241096 Architect
Wiseman Don Nanette 220109 Postal Service
Wood Roy FC1945 Citrus Shed Manager
Yates Cliff Norma 101083 Capital Investment
Yip Bruce Jill 290503 Computer Consultant
Young Kenneth Maureen 011099 Printer
Young Os FC1945 Footwear Retail
Young Wal PP Dorothy 1961 Laundry Services

MEMBERS OF THE ROTARY CLuB OF GOSFORD 2008-2009
Peter Adderley (Mami) Computer Education 2008
Dennis Allen (Jennifer) Building Contractor 1996
Dennis Baker (Elena) Plant Physiology 2005
Derek Blackstone (Teresa) Travel Agent 2002
David Boardman (Lorraine) PP PHF Finance Planning 1987 (Wellington), 1995
Kevin Booth (Nancye) PP PHF OAM Auto Retail 1976
Max Britten (Noreen) PP PHF Mixed Farming 1986
Malcolm Brooks (Tricia) PP PHF OAM Auto Retail 1979
Ian Collins (Mary) PP* PHF* Medicine 1981 (Lane Cove),2004
John Connolly Surgeon 1955 (Babinda), 1976
Terry Devine (Elizabeth) PP* PHF Secondary Education 1977 (Rylstone/Kandos),1982
Allan Eagle (Vivienne) PP Real Estate 1970
Neil Everson (Michelle) Valuer 1980, 2002
Milton Frazer Oil Distribution 1970
Harry French (Daphne) Ship Broker 2009
Kevin Grey (Jan) PHF* Construction Cataloguing 1982 (North Sydney),1996
Leigh Harris (Odette) Finance Management 2008
Tony Harrison (Joy) Business Technol/Equip 1988 (Parramatta), 2008
Jack Hayhurst (Barbara) Home Improvement 2008
Barry Henwood (Anna) Commercial Pilot 1996
Ron Hincksman (Desley) Property Investment 1996
Greg Hooper (Amy Cheng) Management Education 2003
Warren Hosking (Vicki) Accounting 1995
Bob Husk (Marjory) PP PHF Accountancy 1990
Benjamin Ijumi (Lillian) Honorary Chief of Kokoda 2006
Jim Katrakilis (Belinda) Chicken Farmer 2002, 2007
Jim Kirkness (Beryl) PP PHF OAM Engineer 1962
Jim Lawson (Robyn) PP PHF Electrical Engineering 1984
Lester Marquet (Wendy) PP PHF Primary Education 1981
Peter Medlicott (Margaret) Farming Investment 2001
Barry Morris (Margaret) PP* PHF Telecommunications 78 (Bathurst), 85 (Goulburn),1988
John Neuhaus (Gillian) PP* Wool Growing 1958 (Henty), 1984
David Nichols (Sharon) Real Estate 2005
John Phillips (Allison) PP PHF OAM Pharmacy 1984
Harvey Porter (Pat) PP Honorary Concrete Manufacture 1960
Kevin Ransley (Gail) Electrician 1981
Ern Rippon (Eileen) Citrus Research 1973
David Robins (Elizabeth) Auto Technician 2003
Alan Seberry (Fran) PP PHF Fruit Storage Research 1992
Mal Singh (Heather) PP PHF* Civil Engineer 73 (Forbes), 78 (Grafton), 1979
Jim Smith (Dawn) Honorary Citrus Farmer 1979
Neville Wallwork (Iris) OAM Footwear Retail 1967
Don Wiseman (Nanette) PP* Postal Services 2009
* from another club.
107