As Simon Guest reflects on a big 12 months as President of the west Tamworth Rotary Club, Richard Chaffey is already making plans for what he hopes to achieve when he takes the reins next month.
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Both men joined the club in 2008 for the same reasons, “fellowship and being a part of the community”, and while Mr Guest’s list of achievements include renovating the Anzac Memorial on Gipps Street, planting over 230 trees at Chauvel Park, and raising funds through catering several large events among many other things, Mr Chaffey is taking a fresh approach.
“I want the club to have more involvement with young people in the community,” he said.
The new president’s first point of call is to bring the twice folded local Rotaract Club, for people aged 18-30, back to life, as well as getting behind the Rotary Youth Leadership Award - a program that “teaches young people how to become community leaders.”
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He is also looking to continue the club’s good recent work with the Shannon’s Motor Show, as well as their commitments to programs such as Homeless Connect Day, the Bounceback program and other community based projects.
“I was a bit hesitant when they first asked me to step up, but now I am really looking forward to it,” Mr Chaffey said.
“I want young people to get involved with service activities, but am also just looking forward to another year of fellowship and service myself.”
As for any advice from the outgoing president to the incumbent, apparently not much is needed.
“Richard doesn’t need any advice, we all do our job in our own way,” Mr Guest said.
“If I was to say anything it would be learn how to delegate and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
“With the help of the other members I really surprised myself and gained a lot of confidence – I am not sure if I would do it again but I am really glad that I did it.”