Rotarians visited Huis Adalia for the handover of a donation of formula milk for the babies who have been abandoned and now being cared for at this facility untill they are adopted or transfered to a place of safety.

On the 21^st, the Rotary Club received a visit from our District Governor, Judge Deon van Zyl. On this occasion, a "Paul Harris Fellow" recognition was bestowed on Rotarian Nico Loubser, for his selfless service to the club and community. This service was often without disclosure.

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!!