The big day has come and passed and with it a very successful Coronation Double Century Cycle Challenge. Months of arrangements went smoothly, the weather was great and no unfortunate incidents were reported.

The Rotary Club of Swellendam would like to thank all concerned, for making this such a great event. Whether you participated in the cycle race, were on duty for the local cycling club, provided accommodation for cyclists, run a business to meet the needs of all the visitors to our beautiful town or were involved at the venue (show grounds). Together we succeeded in making this weekend a great success!

ROTARY IN  SWELLENDAM - 1965 TO 2011

During 1965 members of the community started talking about the possibility of starting a Rotary Club.  Worcester Rotary was contacted and they were enthusiastic and very excited about it.   For six months, Tony Roy, Japie van Zyl, Jimmy Siddle and Tjokkie van der Merwe drove to Swellendam every Tuesday evening for discussions with a group of local men, about  Rotary.  Few people will remember, but the road between Worcester and Swellendam was bad during those days, so it really was a big sacrifice on their behalf.

On 6 November 1965, Rotary Club of Swellendam was chartered, with 28 founder members, and every Tuesday evening these men gathered at the Carlton Hotel, dressed up in a suite, as this was a requirement!  After the meetings, they enjoyed a meal at the cost of R2.00!  It took a long time, to learn all about Rotary, but an enjoyable journey, I am sure.

The first "Steak Braai" in Swellendam, was arranged by  Rotary and  took place over two evenings at the Agricultural Show grounds.   This was a big annual event and a great fundraiser!  After a few years, the Agricultural Society decided that they would like to offer this event themselves.

Another unique event presented by Rotary, was die 101 Prestige Dance.   Tickets cost R100 and only 101 were sold.  At this formal occasion, the ladies enjoyed dressing up!

After a few years, the meeting venue changed to the Swellengrebel Hotel.   By now, the cost of a meal was R15.00.

During 1995, one of the members, MC Dippenaar, came up with the idea of building a retirement village in Swellendam.  After much discussion and planning, the Rotary Park premises were bought from the Municipality for R10,000.   Funds were needed and the amount of R11,500 was collected among the members at one meeting!   With the stand paid for, the next step was gaining funds to start building!   This was quite a challenge, but eventually the then Boland Bank agreed to grant the loan of R3m, if deposits for twenty-three houses could be confirmed. The public trusted Rotary and Rotary did not disappoint them!   Today Rotary Park consists of 102 houses, a frail care centre, lounge and dining facility!   This is also where Rotarians gather every Tuesday evening.

Due to the Rotary Park project, approximately R250m was invested in Swellendam by the  133 people who live there, and spend there funds locally.   Rotary Park is a huge asset to Swellendam and by far, the most extensive project the Rotary Club has entered into!

All funds collected by the Rotary Club over the past forty-six years, have been ploughed back into the community in various projects, amongst others,  schools and hospital.

What a jouney these past 46 years have been!!

On Friday, July 29, it was the Rotary Club's privilege to officially hand over a jungle-gym to the Fraaie Viooltjies Play Group in Suurbraak.  Great excitement prevailed while the children sang for us and the red ribbon was cut and educational material handed over by the ANNS president, Esther Wessels.   After a short speech by Johan Swart, under whose presidency the planning and fundraising was done, the kiddies enjoyed playing on the jungle gym, with its swings and slide,  for the first time.   The children were treated to cake and cold drinks and adults to delicious snacks.

The play group comprises about 90 children and the few helpers provide an invaluable service to the community of Suurbraak.   These children are the adults of the future and Rotary thanks them for the guidance they give the children.

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There is a perception in Swellendam that Rotary is an organization for the elderly.    We would like to correct this misconception. People of any age who have a passion for his fellow man and  would like to make a difference in the community,  are welcome to join the Rotary Club.

Rotary accommodates different age groups which start  at school level. Young people aged 12 to 18 years, join the "Interact Club". Here, life skills are taught with an emphasis on leadership and personal integrity. "Rotaract Club" is for young men and women between the ages of 18 and 30.   Here their skills and  personal development is extended and the physical and social needs of the community are addressed.   We also have  the Youth Leadership program (RYLA) and the Youth Exchange Program.   From 30 years of age, men and women, from a variety of occupations, join Rotary.    Here we become involved in our community and live our passion to make a positive difference.

Swellendam Rotary Club currently has 27  active members with ages ranging from 43 years.  Our senior members are young at heart and always willing to assist with  projects.   But all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy!   We are very social and have at least two club outings per year.    Our meetings are very informal and business is conducted in a cordial manner.  We have a guest speaker once a month to address us and broaden our knowledge.

If you would like to learn more about Rotary,  you are welcome to attend a meeting, as the guest of any member.