Collie Rotarian John Vlasich has become the first member in the clubs 61 years to receive Double Saphire Paul Harris Fellow.
Mr Vlasich was presented the honour by former club president Bob Greig at the Collie Rotary club changeover dinner last month.
He was recognised for his outstanding contribution to both Rotary and the wider Collie community, through various fundraising efforts and projects.
It was the third time that Mr Vlasich has received a Paul Harris Fellow, an honour that is bestowed upon Rotarians who stand head and shoulders above the rest.
Having been a member of Collie Rotary for the past 31 years, Mr Vlasich has held various roles in the club including President, and has been heavily involved in the Rotary Foundation programme.
Mr Vlasich has been the President of the Collie Heritage group for the past five years, and has introduced the Men’s Shed into the community.
The most recent Rotary project which was organised by Mr Vlasich with the help and support of fellow Rotarians Harry Wiggers, and Steve Smith, was the giant garage sale which raised over $9000.
“That sort of money hasn’t been raised before in such a short space of time.”
“It was really a team effort, other Rotarians supported me and the community’s contribution was recognised,” he said.
Last year Mr Vlasich organised the Christmas trailer raffle, as well as various other fundraising efforts for the Rotary Club, which assisted the club in making contributions of $45,000 to local projects, programs, Rotary International Foundation, and Polio Plus.
Mr Vlasich said he was honoured to be recognised for his work within Rotary and the community, and will continue to be a dedicated Rotarian for many years to come.
