Over the past 12 months, the organisation donated more than $25,000 to various groups.

Members, and Rotarians from throughout the district, celebrated another successful year at the club’s annual changeover dinner at the Muswellbrook Regional Art Gallery.

And, the function gave immediate past president Phil Lawler the opportunity to pass the baton onto incoming counterpart Grant Jupe.

“A new Rotary year has come around once again,” Mr Jupe said.

“I would like to express my thanks to Phil [Lawler] and the board members from 2015-16.

“It was a busy year for our club and I’d like to acknowledge everyone’s efforts over the past 12 months.

“More than $15,000 worth of cheques was handed out on the night to a range of different organisations including the Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music, Red Door Community Kitchen, PCYC, Muswellbrook Men’s Shed, Legacy, Cystic Fibrosis Australia, Endeavour Group and integratedliving Australia.

“Meanwhile, the Rotary Ball was another successful event.

“In total, we raised in excess of $12,000.

“The final breakdown saw $4500 handed to both the Endeavour Group and integratedliving Australia, and $3080 to our club.

“This year was our biggest one yet.

“I’d like to thank those who helped out on the night.”

Mr Jupe said the club was eager to welcome new members in 2016-17.

“I am looking forward to the year and have some ideas to roll out along the way,” he said.

“But, we’re always happy for newcomers to join us.”

2016-17 office bearers: president – Grant Jupe; immediate past president – Phil Lawler; president elect – Matthew Jeans; secretary – Kim Reilly; treasurer – Leanne Irwin; club administration – Rod Gallagher (director), Gary Gray, George Tasker; club service projects – Steve Reichel (director), Carolyn Komacha, Gary Gray, Matthew Sutton; club membership – John Hobden (director), Bob Keating; club public relations – Matthew Jeans (director); Rotary Foundation – Allan Jones (director), Kylie Kendell, Phil Lawler; programs – John Hobden, George Tasker; bulletin – Allan Jones; club photographer – Carolyn Komacha, Grant Jupe. 

For more information on the club, phone Mr Jupe on 0405 294 910.