The Rotary Club of Wynnum & Manly has welcomed Robyn Schneidewin as President for 2026–27, taking over from Past President Jo Soothill.
Following our annual handover dinner, at Wynnum Golf Club on 27 June, the new Rotary year has begun with plenty of fellowship – including a Christmas in July weekend away in Stanthorpe.
Read more about our changeover and the start of Robyn’s year →
Welcoming President Robyn Schneidewin
A new Rotary year is underway at the Rotary Club of Wynnum & Manly, with Robyn Schneidewin taking on the role of President for 2026–27.
Members and guests came together for our annual handover dinner, marking the transition from outgoing President Jo Soothill to incoming President Robyn Schneidewin. Much fellowship was shared between Rotarians and guests over another lovely dinner at the Wynnum Golf Club.
The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the past Rotary year and recognise the contribution of our members. A special thank you goes to Past President Jo Soothill for her leadership, commitment and contribution to the club throughout her year as President.
Recognising three new Paul Harris Fellows
As one of her final duties as President, Jo Soothill, with the assistance of Past District Governor Paul Roger, had the pleasure of recognising three very deserving club members as Paul Harris Fellows.
Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who have made a significant contribution to Rotary and its ideals of service. This year, Robyn Mears, Kai Eberspaecher and Jim Byrnes were recognised for the many ways they have contributed to the successful operation, development and community work of the Rotary Club of Wynnum & Manly.
Robyn Mears has served as both Vocational Director and Youth Director, holding each role for two years. She was heavily involved in the club's transition to the Investment Trust and has contributed to strengthening connections within the club, including advocating for the short Member Behind the Badge presentations that help members get to know one another better.
Kai Eberspaecher has served as Community Director and is well known within the club as our resident “King of Snags”, bringing an impressive depth of knowledge to our many sausage sizzles! Kai has been an active contributor to Board discussions and was instrumental in initiating the Better Lives Project, establishing a connection with a multinational company interested in helping convert school kitchens in Ghana from wood-burning facilities on dirt floors to modern gas-powered kitchens. This exciting initiative has the potential to become a significant long-term project for our club.
Jim Byrnes has been a dedicated worker behind the scenes of the club for many years, serving on both the Club Board and the District Youth Committee. Jim played an important role in navigating the club's transition to the Investment Trust and is currently part of the team searching for a new club storage location. His work on the South West Queensland Flood Appeal in 2025 was also pivotal to the success of that program.
Congratulations to Robyn, Kai and Jim on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for the many different ways you continue to contribute to Rotary and our community.
Christmas in July in Stanthorpe
Robyn’s year has already started on a social note, with members heading to Stanthorpe for a wonderful Christmas in July weekend.
The weekend included a festive Christmas in July dinner and plenty of opportunity to enjoy the fellowship and friendship that is such an important part of Rotary.
Members were also treated to a fascinating vocational tour exploring aspects of the local apple and strawberry industries, generously hosted by Stephen Tancred, a member of the Rotary Club of Stanthorpe, who shared his expertise with the group.
Thank you to the International Club of Stanthorpe for hosting a wonderful Christmas in July dinner and to the Rotary Club of Stanthorpe for joining us on the evening and helping make our visit such an enjoyable one.
With a new President, a new Rotary year and a great start spent connecting with fellow Rotarians, we look forward to seeing what 2026–27 brings for the Rotary Club of Wynnum & Manly.
