Rotary Presidents’ Gala

The Rotary Club of Gibraltar recently held their annual Presidents’ Gala Dinner at the Rock Hotel. Outgoing president Raju Alwani handed over to Julian Risso for the new year 2010/11. In his farewell address Mr. Alwani thanked everyone for their support over the past year, particularly those on the Committee who together have raised more funds than ever before for local and international charities.

The event was well attended, with a number of distinguished guests such as the Commander of British Forces Adrian Bell and his wife Hayley; Lt. Col Colin Risso MC; District Governor of District 1120 Mr. John Dunkley; President of Rotary Club Estoi Palace, Portugal, Capt. Kent Ringborn; President of The Rotary Club of Almancil (Portugal) Mr. Keith Johnson; The Presidents of Lions Club and Round Table, Gibraltar as well as a large number of Rotarians from Clubs in Spain and Portugal.

The Royal Gibraltar Regiment Corps of Drums delighted everyone with their marching and music.

In his first address as the new Rotary Club President, Julian Risso made tribute to the work of Rotarians though the years, promised that this would continue through his presidency and thanked all for their contributions to the Club and to the local community. He expressed the hope that both the Rotary Club of Gibraltar and the local community will be able to continue working closely together for the benefit of Gibraltar.

Mr. Joe Gaggero, CBE KHS, founder member and Past President of Rotary Club of Gibraltar was made Honorary Member of the club and was awarded with a Certificate by outgoing Secretary Mr Leif Bank Jorgensen, Raju Alwani and Julian Risso.

The Fund Raising Committee headed by Ms Jane Hart together with Ms Barbara Sellors and Mr Gordon Vickers during the evening held a tombola and auction which raised over £1400 for local charities. The evening ended with dancing to the music of local band Horizon.