With support from the Latrobe City Council and the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Committee, the Rotary Club of Morwell have installed a commemorative plaque in the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden to acknowledge our local medical, hospital and other health personnel for their dedication during the past two years, bringing the Latrobe Valley community safely through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Planning for this plaque has been happening in Morwell Rotary Club for several months, as an initiative from their vocational service portfolio. The project was led by Gloria Auchterlonie, as vocational services director for 2020/21.
Originally, an unveiling event with afternoon tea was intended for the public and representatives from all medical, hospital, ambulance, pharmacy, and other related organisations. However, this plan was stalled and continually postponed by intermittent lockdowns. It became clear that public attendance would not be possible.
Despite these challenges, support for this project held strong in the Morwell Rotary Club and was extended over two Rotary years, supported by last year’s club president, Mike Answerth, and this year’s club president, David McInnes, and their boards. “This plaque is a good fit for our Rose Garden, which is one of Morwell’s most valuable assets,” said David McInnes.
In lieu of a public event, a smaller gathering was held recently to note the installation of the Rotary Acknowledgement Plaque, attended by members of the Rotary Club of Morwell and the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Committee. From the Morwell Rotary Club, past president Mike Answerth and current president David McInnes were in attendance, along with Gloria Auchterlonie who led the project. Secretary Lyn Reid and Acting chair Bev McGuire attended from the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Committee.
“Despite public attendance not possible on this occasion, the most important thing is that the plaque is now permanently placed in the beauty and quietude of our Rose Garden. It’s an everlasting tribute to our medical and hospital personnel for all to see and appreciate in years to come,” said Mrs Auchterlonie.
Pictured (L-R): Mike Answerth (Past president of Morwell Rotary Club), Lyn Reid (Secretary of Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Committee), David McInnes (President of Morwell Rotary Club) and Bev McGuire (Acting chair of Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Committee) noting the installation of the Rotary Acknowledgment Plaque