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Community & Business

24 August, 2021

Rotary celebrates the year that was

MAREEBA Rotary has hosted their annual changeover event welcoming in the new board of directors and president for the year ahead.

By Rhys Thomas

New president James Howe with outgoing president, Maree Lopez.
New president James Howe with outgoing president, Maree Lopez.

MAREEBA Rotary has hosted their annual changeover event welcoming in the new board of directors and president for the year ahead. 

The changeover took place at the Mareeba Heritage Centre on Friday, August 13 with a numerous Rotarians and community members attending.

Maree Lopez, who held the title of president for the past year, has now handed the torch over to James Howe.

Mrs Lopez said that despite a tough year she was happy to see the FNQ Rotary Field Days succeed. 

“We had a lovely dinner at the Mareeba Heritage Centre and it was just a celebration of the year that was,” she said. 

“It was a quieter year, but I paid homage and thanked the Rotary members that helped with the Field Days, I certainly paid my respects to them and their hard work. 

“I got to thank everyone and welcome James into his new role as president for the coming year.” 

Incoming president Mr Howe has been involved in Mareeba Rotary for seven years, seeing it as an effective way to connect and give back. 

“I got involved in Rotary after returning from university,” he said. 

“Rotary is a great way to give back and reconnect with the community I grew up in. 

“I'm very excited to be stepping into the shoes of president and looking forward to what’s to come.”

Nina Akselsen Grant was recognised as the 2020/21 Rotarian of the Year for her outstanding contributions to the club, even while being stuck a world away. 

“Everyone has a different take on the award but as president you see what work goes into the year,” Mrs Lopez said. 

“While she was still stuck in Norway Nina did an amazing amount of work not only for Mareeba Rotary but for the Field Days as well.

“It was just crazy what she was able to do from the other side of the world.”

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