Jan Veenstra, Pakenham Rotary’s charter member, received four sapphire pins and a ruby pin from District Governor David Piper at the anniversary changeover dinner.
By Emma Sun
THERotary Club of Pakenham’s only charter member and past president Jan Veenstra received one of the highest honours at the club’s changeover dinner Tuesday night.
The club is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary and District Governor David Piper presented Mr Veenstra with four sapphire pins and a ruby pin to recognise his 50 years of service to Rotary.
Mr Veenstra said although he was expecting to receive something, getting five pins in one night was overwhelming.
“I did have an idea that I was going to get something and I was looking for clues – I could read between the lines that something was going to happen,” he said.
“I had a first sapphire pin I got some time ago and I did expect I was going to get one with two sapphires.
“I thought I was right when the District Governor gave it to me but when he told me to put that in my pocket and I thought, wow, three?
“When he kept going I thought oh my god, I didn’t expect it and I was really stuck for words. I couldn’t think any more after that.
“It was really nice of them to recognise my 50 years in Rotary, I appreciate that very much.”
Rotarians first receive a Paul Harris Fellow, which is awarded to recognise their services. Pins are presented after a Rotarian receives a Paul Harris Fellow.
Past president Ken Rook said the awards require a contribution of US$1000 to The Rotary Foundation and in some countries Rotarians can pay to get the award.
“In Australia we use it as a recognition, where the club puts the award in the name of a Rotarian,” Mr Rook said.
“All up there would’ve been about $7000 in total donated in his name from the club.
“It comes from your peers, members from the club who feel your contribution is worth that recognition so it really is a great honour.”
Mr Veenstra was also presented with a letter from Rotary International president Ray Klinginsmith to congratulate him on his 50 years.
And as a double celebration for Mr Veenstra, he and wife Dulcie will be celebrating their own 50 year milestone, with their golden anniversary at the end of the year.
“I went and bought a bottle of port about five years ago, it was a special bottle of port and I thought I’d save that for my 50th anniversary,” Mr Veenstra said.
“Apart from that, we haven’t planned something yet but we will definitely be having something.”
