Rotarians awarded at changeover dinner

Rotary Club of Narrabri members have been recognised for service through the presentation of annual awards at the changeover dinner on Saturday.

President Jocellin Jansson announced the Rotarian of the Year as Julie Drake.

After moving to Narrabri from Port Macquarie, Julie quickly transferred clubs and embraced the opportunity to get to know the community.

She has served as secretary in the previous Rotary year and continues her role on the board with incoming president Chris Cole.

Julie was also a key organiser of the Rotary district conference held at The Crossing Theatre earlier this year.

Announcing Julie as the recipient, Jocellin said she never misses a beat.

“Everything you do, you do with aplomb and finesse,” she said.

“You exemplify service above self.”

Accepting the award, Julie said she remembers Jocellin contacting her not long after she had moved to town and the warm welcome she quickly received.

“It’s such a great club,” she said.

Continuing with the presentations, Jocellin announced Chris Cole as the Dark Horse Award winner. The president awards this honour, typically to someone who works diligently in the background seeking no recognition.

Chris perfectly exemplifies the attributes of the Dark Horse Award, however, he jokingly said he would prefer the title of White Knight.

Chris is often part of Rotary’s many activities and took a keen interest in last year’s book sale.

He has been instrumental in setting up the book sale which recently reopened at the former MJ’s Newsagency site.

“This year’s book sale might not have happened without him,” Jocellin said.

“He sees what needs to be done and just does it.

“He never wants to be in photographs or seeks accolades.

“I’m really looking forward to your year as president of our club, Chris.”

Responding to the award, Chris said members get in and do whatever needs to be done.

“It makes the job so much easier,” he said.

In one of her final acts as president, Jocellin awarded one Paul Harris Fellowship.

A Paul Harris Fellowship, named in honour of Rotary’s founder, is one of the most prestigious honours a member can receive.

This year, outgoing club director and former secretary and president Dylan Smith was named as a Paul Harris Fellow.

After moving to Narrabri in 2020, Dylan quickly became involved in Rotary and has served as vice president, secretary, president in 2022-23 and club director.

With great assistance by Pat and Mike Carberry, he also assisted in the publishing of the club’s 75th anniversary book.

“He has contributed to this club in so many ways,” Jocellin said.

Responding to the honour, Dylan thanked Rotarians for their years of friendship.