Maree Vinocuroff
Our Rotary member spotlight is one busy lady, Maree Vinocuroff.
Maree is the Chair of the Chelsea Rotary Community Committee, a role she takes very seriously. The Committee works hard to identify groups and programs within the local area that need funding or support. The main focus recently has been supporting individuals and families who are struggling to make ends meet. We also support sporting clubs, community gardens, people with disabilities, scout groups.. wherever we see a need.
Maree likes giving back to the community and keeping her mind active. “It is very rewarding to work with a great group of likeminded people making a difference in our community.” Maree joined Rotary a number of years ago. As a school principal she thought it would benefit the students. Rotary’s diverse programs provided a range of experiences that the students could become involved in.
Maree’s husband Nick has now also joined Rotary, they work on several Community projects together.
If that’s not enough to keep her busy, Maree’s organising the 48th Annual Art show this June long weekend. It showcases our many talented local artists while also serving as a meeting place for locals to catch up with friends over a cuppa and hopefully buy some art!
In her past life Maree was an art teacher for many years giving her valuable experience to ensure another great show.
Kevin Harrison
Twenty-eight years ago, good friend and club President at the time, Brian Lowe invited Kevin Harrison to join Chelsea Rotary Australia. Kevin didn’t know at the time that accepting the invitation was to be one of the best decisions of his life.
Kevin became President in 2004-5, a very auspicious year full of celebrations. Chelsea Rotary Australia was celebrating its 60th year of community service while Rotary International celebrated 100 years of service to the World.
Kevin’s favourite part is working with like-minded people in a friendly environment, helping those in need in our community. Kevin is our Marketing / Membership Director and general Roustabout.
When he’s not donning Rotary attire, you may find him on the golf course missing 3-foot putts or avoiding cucumbers…
Kevin’s looking forward to the day that Rotary announces we’ve achieved our goal of eradicating the Polio virus from our world.
Thanks for your ongoing commitment to the club Kevin!
Special shoutout to Brian Lowe, that’s two for two Club Member Spotlight members he’s introduced to the club!
Peter Washington
Peter joined the club 30 years ago looking to expand his circle of friends beyond the parents of children’s friends. Over the years he’s loved how Rotary helps develop people, acknowledging some roles can help push people out of their comfort zone.
Currently Peter’s managing the Kingston Farmers Market with Noel Jenkinson, finding new volunteer groups to help and liaising with Kingston Council. Peters also working on introducing the tools to set up the hybrid meeting process for club meetings.
His biggest gift from joining? How’s this for Valentine’s inspiration! Peter met his wife Helen through the club. He proposed to her at a Rotary Meeting and all the members of the club attended the wedding 15 years ago this month! Happy Anniversary Peter and Helen!
Chelsea Rotary has helped Peter develop as a person and changed the lives of many beneficiaries both here and overseas. He’s passionate to see the club grow to continue positive waves.
Peter’s personal goal for the year is to complete a Triathlon. He’s starting swimming sessions next week, has the bike ride under control and finessing the run.