This commitment has been focused on a range of programs that have involved youth, in particular his involvement with the Rotary District 9790 International Youth Exchange Program.
A Rotary spokesperson said Bruce joined the District Youth exchange Committee in 2011 and became its district chair in 2015.
“He held this role until June 2021,” the spokesperson said.
“He remains on the committee as inbound student coordinator and youth volunteer management (youth protection) coordinator.
“He was also appointed leader of a Rotary Group Study Exchange to Germany in 2011.
“These exchanges are vocational study tours for young adults.”
The Royce Abbey Award is named in honour of Royce Abbey, former Essendon Rotary Club member who was president of Rotary International from1988-1989.
The purpose of the award is to acknowledge a Rotarian who has shown outstanding commitment and enthusiasm to the ideals of Rotary and to honour Royce Abbey’s contribution to Rotary and to communities locally, nationally and internationally.
It also provides financial support to the Royce and Jean Abbey Vocational Scholarship.
There are only about 400 recipients of the award in the world with about 140 of those in Australia.
“The presentation was made to Bruce on March 25 and to say it came as a complete surprise to him would be an understatement,” the spokesperson said.
“To Bruce’s great joy many of his family were in attendance as well as Rotary District representatives.
“Following the formal presentation a video recorded by former Benalla Exchange students was shown.
“This featured many of the students who had been involved in District 9790 exchanges over the years.
“All expressed their congratulations to, and their appreciation of, Bruce’s management of their exchanges.”
11°C