Read here how the club celebrated 50 years of building peace through education, community service, and the protection of human rights with a reception hosted by the Administrator of the Northern Territory.

Darwin South Rotary celebrated 50 years of service with a reception at Government House hosted by NT Administrator Professor Hugh Heggie.

President Neisha Schilling said the club could be justifiably proud of the many projects it had undertaken over the years.

"Our 50th anniversary project was small but heartfelt; peacebuilding in our own community," she said.

"As with many undertakings we do not know who or how many people we have assisted, but that is very often the case with Rotary projects. 

"We are proud to support the Northern Territory Human Rights Awards each year as our signature project.

"We're also proud to support an Indigenous Health Scholar each year and to follow their progress as they complete their studies."

Neisha said the club was also proud to have been able to support the Margaret River School Leavers as they assisted communities and support remote schools in Timor-Leste. 

"It's our vision to build relationships and create opportunities to improve lives in local and international communities," she said.

"When opportunity knocks, we answer."

Neisha said the club also took the opportunity to recognise two honorary members. 

"Annabelle Lawford and Jim Wright were both acknowledged as honorary members of Darwin South Rotary," she said.

"Annabelle has always joined Ron in our club’s activities over many years, although not a member. 

"Jim says he’d like to take things a little more quietly so honorary membership is an appropriate recognition of his many years of work in Rotary."

NT Administrator Professor Hugh Heggie thanked the club for its service.

"My congratulations to Rotarians, community leaders, and supporters who have played a vital role in achieving this significant milestone and shaping the success of the Rotary Club of Darwin South," he said.

DG John also congratulated the club on 50 years of service.

"I loved the time I spent with Darwin South and the way their meetings embrace family," he said.

"I sincerely congratulate them on 50 years of community and international service and thank them for their support of education and human rights and for their efforts at home and away to build peace, goodwill and understanding," he said.

"Darwin South Rotarians make the world a better place," he said.

Congratulations Darwin South from all of us in D9650!