50 Years of Rotary Involvement in Bishopdale Burnside

As we embark on a new calendar year, 2024 holds great significance for the Rotary Club of Bishopdale Burnside as we celebrate 50 years of devoted Rotary Service in Christchurch.

Back in 1969, the Papanui Rotary Club established an offshoot club in Belfast, which resulted in the growth and connection of both rural and urban communities. The resilience of Papanui was evident in 1971 when discussions arose regarding the establishment of another club in the northwest.

On April 22, 1974, a pivotal preliminary meeting took place, where the enthusiastic prospective members, led by chairman Kevin Ecroyd from the Papanui Club, eagerly listened and expressed their desire to get started. The only deliberation of any significance was choosing the club’s name – Harewood, Waimairi, Bishopdale, or Burnside? With time running out to form the club within the Rotary year closing on June 30, the composite name of Bishopdale-Burnside was agreed upon as a temporary solution. Surprisingly, the name has endured, with opposition arising against suggestions to shorten it for convenience.

The necessary paperwork was then meticulously completed and mailed (no email in those days!) to Rotary International Headquarters in Evanston, USA. It is with great pride that we received the charter and approval on May 8, 1974, which marked the inaugural meeting of our esteemed club.

Among the 23 founding members was Robin Mundy, a dedicated individual who remains an active member of the club to this day.

As we commemorate this historic milestone, the Club is planning for a celebration dinner on May 10th.