The Club Presents its First Sapphire Pin to Past President Michael Pedler

On the glittering occasion of the Canberra region Clubs' Rotary Centennial Dinner, the Rotary Club of Canberra South Inc. presented its first Paul Harris Sapphire Pin.

The Sapphire Pin was presented to Past President Michael Pedler in front of almost 500 Rotarians and friends, including the Chief Minister of the ACT.

The citation was read by President Graeme Kinraid. The Pin was presented by District Governor Bob Greeney.

Michael was completely taken by surprise - just as it should be!

This is the text of the citation:

Paul Harris Fellowship (Sapphire Pin) – Michael Pedler

The Rotary Club of Canberra-South made an early decision to award a Paul Harris Fellowship for the Centenary of Rotary. We wanted to award this to a person, who to us, exemplified the ideals of Rotary, of Service Above Self.

The person we’ve chosen has been in our club for over 17 years. They are a real advocate of Rotary with a strong commitment to it. It should be said that Rotary is an integral part of their life.

Irrespective of their commitments within District 9710 there is always time to consider and to look after our Club’s welfare and to work in the Club with all members. (In other words looking at the total picture.)

This person is a fountain of Rotary knowledge and a real inspiration, to newer and older members alike. It’s their influence that’s made sure our club continues it’s family and youth focus.

He has been a driving force behind many Ambassadorial Scholars hosted by us, was instrumental in the successful nomination of Patricia Hewitson as one of Rotary International’s first Peace Scholars, and more recently David Chick, as D9710’s next Peace Scholar.

It is my honour and pleasure to announce our Club’s first Sapphire Pin to Michael Pedler.

Graeme Kinraid
President
23 February 2005