The White River Club members knew what they were in for as this was the second District Conference they had organised in recent years. This is the first that was held in White River though, as previously there was no suitable venue. Work was started 15 months ago and as White River is one of the stronger clubs in the District, there were ample hands to do all that is required to present a successful conference.

Marketing the conference was also done way in advance by using the DG’s News Letter and a dedicated web site was also established for this purpose. This web site also contained a list of all the sponsors and hotels where special rates had been negotiated.

DG Albie van de Venter’s selection of worthy projects, whilst on club visits, was used as a foundation for determining the contents of the programme. Presentation material was submitted way ahead of time ensuring that it all could be double-checked and that there were no hitches during the actual presentations. Using the worthy projects within our District derived sufficient inspiration. Costs were kept to a minimum by eliminating the traditional “Motivational Speakers”.

The Conference was not only financially successful; as the Club was able to hand back money to the District, but feedback from guests and delegates alike was also very complimentary. To make this conference reasonably priced was one of the main aims of the organizing committee, and in this they were hugely successful. Other aims were to make it fun and inspirational. From feedback received, it succeeded far above our highest hopes on both counts. District 9250 bowed out into the annals of Rotary history in grand style.

This was a proud and fitting end to 9250 as we launch into the future as District 9400 under the able leadership of incoming DG Frances Callard.

PAG Brian Regan: Chairman of Organising Committee.