District Conference 2014
12 members and 2 guests (wives) attended the sessions of the District Governor Phillip Beggs' hugely successful District Conference at the Titanic Centre over Friday 26 - Saturday 27 September organised by the Comber Club. We were particularly pleased to also have Andrew Smith, Belfast Rotaract Club's President. (not shown in photo are PP Marnette, Secretary Alvin and PP David Boyd)
Delegates and guests heard excellent detailed presentations on current activity from all Service Chairs. Throughout the Conference delegates were urged to "tell the Rotary story" of all the good work Rotary successfully does in local communities and, in Rotary Ireland's case, Africa and to urge others to join this work and make a difference. In this regard the new District publication "Rotary News" was launched - a paper to be published every 2 months (at no cost to District) aimed at the general public. Copies will be sent to Clubs to place in public areas.
Guest speakers reflected on the wider world beyond Rotary with eminent scientist Dame Jocelyn Bell, Irish historian Dr Eamonn Phoenix and businessmen Tony O'Reilly (Providence Resources PLC) and Michael Ryan (Bombardier Aerospace.NI) giving the Conference a captivating and frequently amusing scientific, historic and business perspective.
However Conference hearts were lost to Aoife Heverin, nominated by the Rotary Club of Ballycastle the 11 year old winner of the RIBI's Youth Writer 2014 (Intermediate Category). She captivated all as she beautifully read her impressive entry. DG Phillip presented with her certificate and award.
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At the City Hall on Friday night, Belfast's Lord Mayor Councillor Nichola Mallon hosted a reception before dinner with excellent, even surprising, entertainment in the magnificent Great Hall thanks to the generous sponsorship from power generation company Edina. The Club were also particularly delighted to renew friendships with members of the Rotary Club of Dublin at the City Hall.
The shiny monument to maritime Belfast itself shone during the Gala Dinner Ball in the Titanic Ballroom on Saturday night attended by President Ronnie and 4 members and partners.
However, a special feature of the Conference was the lighting up of the City Hall in Rotary colours on the Friday night ensuring Rotary Ireland lights up not only Rotary but also Belfast.
The Club also particularly congratulate Master of Ceremonies President Elect Claire Savage.