The Rotary Clubs of Atherton and Mossman both presented Paul Harris Fellow recognitions as part of their club Christmas celebrations.

The Rotary Club of Atherton Rotary celebrated the joy of Christmas early this year on 28 November by recognising the clubs’ achievements over the past six months and presenting Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) recognitions to five of its members.

Each of these Paul Harris Fellow recognitions was either an acknowledgement of exemplary community service work or for helping those in need. The Rotary Club of Atherton contributed US$5,000 to the Annual Fund, or PolioPlus, so that they could then make these five worthy recipients a Paul Harris Fellow.

Gordon Malcolm was presented with the first PHF for his service on the board of Carinya Home for the Aged for nearly 15 years, and also for the mentorship he provides for new board members of the Atherton Rotary club.

The second person recognised was Miriam Newton Gentle, a Salvation Army Corps Leader based in Tolga. She was awarded a PHF for her exceptional community service, and the ability to give members a unique insight into the needs and plight of some of our less fortunate local residents. This has enabled the Atherton Rotary club to discreetly provide for local needs that she has identified.

Finally, Mike Brzozowski, Andrew McCosh, and Pauline Spackman were each presented with a PHF for their service as committee members of the Far North Queensland Field Days. The Field Days, which started in 1989, are a celebration of Agriculture that connects, inspires, empowers, and transforms the local Tablelands community. Without these three tireless workers contributing so much of their time, events like this would not happen.

Not to be outdone, the Rotary Club of Mossman organised a delightful Sunday afternoon tea at Temptations Café on Sunday 26 November. Rotary Club of Mossman also presented five Paul Harris recognitions in front of club members, friends and family.

John and Annette Anich were the first two PHF recipients. John had joined Rotary in the early 1960s. He was president of the Mossman Rotary Club in 1969 and 1977. He was active as the youth exchange counsellor. Outside of Rotary, they are both also actively involved with the Young Farmer's Association, Historical Society and Mossman Botanic Gardens. They also have served the community through their pharmacy business.

Ron and Maree Crees received the next two PHFs. Ron's father Doug was a founding member of the Rotary Club of Mossman in 1955. Ron joined Rotary in the late 1950s. Their work in the community includes being members of the Young Farmer’s Association and volunteers with Meals and Wheels. They both have previous long-term support and involvement with Mossman High School.

The last recognition was a surprise as much to the recipient as to Area Governor Rita Zappulla who was only requested to make the presentation ten minutes prior to the start of the event. This presentation was to current club president, Robyn Gray. Robyn has over the years has contributed to the local Mossman community through her involvement with SES, the Show Society, and the Orchid Society. Robyn has just been selected to have a second year as President next year.

Both Rotary clubs may have small membership numbers but are still able to contribute to the Foundation and do so many wonderful projects in their local communities.