At our Christmas Party 2021, President Elect Jim Barnes was presented with the Paul Harris Fellow Award by President Jim Baxter at the International Club. PP Fran Hodgson, spoke of the many and varied reasons why this Award is so well deserved. (see below) Congratulations Jim Barnes.Jim Barnes – PHF
A science teacher; a vigneron, an historian and a community inspiration
His community interests are wide and varied.
For many years Jim was strongly associated with the wine industry in the Granite Belt holding various positions such as President of the Qld Wine
He is a tour guide for the art mural trail around Stanthorpe CBD
Volunteer at the Stanthorpe Information Centre
Administrator for the Granite Belt Images of the past facebook page which creates a lot of interest around the district
Member of the 150th Celebrations Committee for Stanthorpe
Vice President of the Granite Belt Neighbourhood Centre Management Committee
As a Rotarian, Jim, through his initiative and foresight, has taken our club on a whole new journey enabling all the members to work hands- on in the fields of mental health and Seniors programs
He initiated and facilitates the Dementia Friendly Stanthorpe Project which aims to ensure that the Stanthorpe community is aware of the issues of dementia; has friendly spaces for people living with dementia and their carers; encouraging businesses to become more dementia friendly places.
Jim has organised meetings; awareness training; BBQs; raffles etc. street assessment; discussions with shop owners and a movie night etc
He is heavily involved in developing the Dementia Friendly Week and Mental Health week programs. Jim is instrumental in holding the Mental Health Breakfast at the RSL
His monthly Ageing Well sessions for Seniors held at Hilton Street have been well attended and provided interesting speakers and interesting information
He organised the plaque and unveiling for Millie Marsden in Heritage Park
As the Vocational Director Jim has been arranging the Craft Awards and Pride of Workmanship Awards for the last three years.
On top of all his projects, Jim is also the incoming Rotary President for 22-23.
Jim’s work in the community certainly demonstrates the objectives and mission of The Rotary Foundation and is a very worth recipient of a PHF.
Fran Hodgson, December 2021