Rotarians honour exceptional service to the community
Two club members and Benoni business man were awarded with the movement's highest honour.
Dressed in sparkling outfits adorned with golden pins, members of the Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora raised a glass to three recipients of the organisation’s coveted Paul Harris Fellow awards.
As the sun set over Lago Puccini, at the La Como Lifestyle Estate, on February 22, club members and 10 former recipients of Rotary International’s highest accolade gathered to honour the latest awardees.
“Our club’s mission is clear; we are part of a global movement dedicated to making the world a better place,” said Peter Herwag.
“We acknowledge individuals committed to service above self and whose integrity continuously drives them to make a lasting and tangible difference in the lives of others.”
With glasses charged, the night’s formalities got underway, with Larry Hyde becoming the first Paul Harris Fellow Award recipient.
Cryptically delving into his accomplishments, Gail Wilson, Hyde’s sister said, his OCD-like attention to detail has led to the overwhelming success of every project he has been involved in.
“He joined our club in 2021 and dove headfirst into every aspect of our club’s activities,” she said.
“He not only rose to every challenge but his commitment has led to our annual fundraising golf day and the Wine Ex gaining tremendous support, which ultimately expanded our ability to serve others.”
Looking around in utter shock, Hyde tearfully accepted his award from his sibling.
“Rotarians are infectious people,” he said.
“Following my sister’s undying persistence, I joined the club and have never regretted my choice.”
Shortly thereafter, attention was turned to Janice Carter, who became an active club member in 2017.
Over the past eight years, she has worn many hats, including Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora Ann president, district Ann governor and serves on the club’s fundraising portfolio.
Carter received numerous awards, including Rotary Ann of the Year, Rotarian of the Year and District Rotary Ann of the Year.
Exchanging hugs with her fellow club members, Carter said a creative spark, no matter how big or small, has the potential to touch the lives of many.
“By extending a hand to others, you create a ripple effect which may circle beyond your wildest expectations,” she said.
“However, the success of your effort can only be measured in how it impacted your life and how you have grown.”
Bringing the evening to a close, Herweg presented Manny Ferreirinha, owner of CMS, chairperson of the Portuguese Business Forum and former Paul Harris Fellow Award recipient with a Paul Harris Sapphire Award.
“This man is a ghost on social media and it is therefore difficult to get information about his life and accomplishments,” said Herweg.
“This is a testament to the man. He does not pose for photos, nor does he advertise what he is busy with; he merely works in the background giving beyond himself, ensuring community-driven projects attain their goals.”
Humbly accepting his award, Ferreirinha said that for the past 35 years, he committed himself to supporting the community.
“Organisations such as Rotary and other service groups are doing incredible work in assisting those in need while rolling up their sleeves to participate in various clean-up operations,” said the business owner.
“Your efforts, no matter what, are relevant and impactful and if my support assists in your attaining those goals, my time on this planet is well spent.”
Applauding the efforts of those who volunteer their time and resources to the club’s ongoing success, club president Garth Smithard said by considering their past achievements, 2025 promises to be a year of further growth for the club.
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