Kelly Macnamara
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary foundations way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programmes. It is named after Rotary's founder, a Chicago lawyer who started our organization with three business associates.
Local Benalla Rotarian, Kelly MacNamara was presented with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship Award by President Ian Davies, at a recent meeting held at Rafferty's Receptions.
President Ian Davies provided and overview of Kelly's background and achievements. Kelly was born in Corryong but grew up in the farming community of the Khancoban Valley. It was from his father that Kelly learnt about community service. Kelly was a very keen sportsman in his youth, playing cricket, football, tennis, squash and golf.
In 1979 Kelly joined the Apex Club in Maryborough and became a keen debater and public speaker, and even more involved in community work. Secretary of the school council in the days of bingo as a fundraiser was one of the less enjoyable tasks he fulfilled.
Kelly was employed in the Bank and so in 1987 the family arrived in Benalla where Kelly's Apex involvement continued. He was awarded the Floor Member of the Year in 1987 before being pensioned off in July 1988. Other committees and involvements at that time included the 2nd Benalla Scouts, Treasurer of the Anglican Church, Rose City Band and FCJ College Parents Group.
Kelly moved on from Benalla to Shepparton and then to Mansfield. He joined the Rotary Club of Mansfield in 1994 and in 1995 - 1996 he was the President of the Club. In the six years he was in the Mansfield Club he also held the positions of secretary, Club Service & bulletin editor twice. Between a heavy workload, he found time to be treasurer of the Anglican Church, involved in organization of the wine and food group and on stage with MMuDS theatre group.
Norfolk Island was the next move, where Kelly maintained his Rotary involvement; he was on the Board for the three years and held the position of Club Service Director. This involved organizing the meals and attendance - in a place where many tourists visited each week.
In outback Queensland he belonged to the Rotary Club of Mount Isa and was information person in the first year and a Board Member in the second.
Since returning to Benalla in November 2003 he has rapidly become involved again with Rotary as treasurer and board member, and the Anglican Church where he is currently treasurer and also secretary / treasurer of the Holy Trinity Close retirement units. Kelly is a volunteer Tax Help person each year and has been actively involved with the Anglicare Homework Club for 6 years.
He has a collection of certificates, glasses and pins for 100% attendance gained from a passion for attending Rotary Club meetings whilst overseas.
The last couple of years have been challenging and rewarding. Being President of a large club is a different experience to being President of a small club, but similarly rewarding. Leading the team on the RAWCS Vanuatu project last year and the formation of the Probus Club of Benalla Rose City this year have given him a feeling of making a difference in the community.
Darren Best
Public Relations Officer
Rotary Club of Benalla
Business 03 57625177
Mobile 0428428578
