The Committed Rotarian

Early in September 1985, Neil Roberts, Warren Newman, Chris Rologas and perhaps two others met in the upstairs bar area of the Seven Brothers Restaurant, to discuss the possibility of forming a third Rotary Club in Armidale.   

About 10 days later the small group together with a few new recruits reconvened and formulated a plan of action. About two weeks the “Club” to be known as The Rotary Club of Armidale Central met for lunch, upstairs in the Tattersall’s Hotel in Beardy Street. 

Neil was the inaugural President of the above club, but first joined Rotary in Tamworth in 1972.  He joined our club in 1985.

The Entertainer  A sample at the District Conference in 2013.

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We didn’t really believe it, but they wowed us on the day. “Rotary’s Got Talent” was the brain-child of Neil Roberts. A talent quest was just the right fit for an event with John Blackman: the only things missing were Red Symonds and his gong.

Rotarians came out of the woodwork, to survive the auditions. At the finals in Albury, recitals, songs and a spoof Rotary meeting had us enthralled, and the only act to be booed from the stage was “The DEE-Gees”!  Some more work required, fellows!

RIPR David Harilela (affectionally called“The Ripper”) came close to a win with “Pretty Woman”, using the Youth Exchange girls as background dancers.  Neil Roberts himself had the audience singing along with “I Still Call Australia Home"....

His Love of, and Integrity for Work

The Scotch Family mourns the loss of Neil Roberts, respected Bursar from 1985 - 2005. Neil contributed significantly to Scotch College during this time in many ways, including his significant involvement in the extensive building programme that Scotch undertook during his tenure. Generations of boys have benefited, and will continue to benefit, from his commitment to, and passion for, the School. 

 His Passing

The President and members of the Rotary Club of Hawthorn are saddened at the passing of their Past President (Neil Roberts) and Paul Harris Fellow who was a warm personal friend to all. He was also Charter President of the Rotary Club of Armidale Central NSW. His contribution was enormous and we will miss his entertaining ways and great courage shown during his heroic struggle.

 Gordon Cheyne