Flying the flag on the international Rotary stage

Cultural trip a major honour with an added ‘royal’ attraction

Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotarian Ian Cochrane has represented the north west on the international stage - with a little ‘royal’ support courtesy of the Tameside Reporter.

Ian had the honour of attending the Rotary International Assembly in Shingle Creek, Orlando, as he prepares to take over as District Governor of the North West of England and Isle of Man this July.

“It was a remarkable experience and also a very proud moment for my own Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotary Club, as I will be the first to have held this prestigious position in the club’s 62 year history,” said Ian.

He attended last week’s assembly with his partner Susan, also a member of Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotary, where they joined more than 500 incoming District Governors (and partners) from across the globe. 

Ian explained: “The event showcased the global reach of Rotary where we shared our experiences and vision to strengthen Rotary.

“It was also an opportunity to network and make new friends and we listened to some great inspirational speakers throughout the week.”

Rotary International President Elect Olayinka Babakila, from Nigeria, urged all Rotary members to “Create Lasting Impact” at the assembly by carrying out projects which make a positive difference in local communities and beyond. 

He also appealed to Rotarians to make their local clubs more welcoming and allow Rotary experiences to transform members personally.

Ian added that one element of the visit included a cultural evening, which provided an opportunity to display the costumes and culture of all of the countries represented at the International Assembly. 

“It truly showcased the global reach of Rotary and allowed us to embrace other cultures,” added Ian.

Meanwhile, Susan took along a life-sized cut out of King Charles for the Great Britain and Ireland stand for the cultural evening (in fact the actual cut out she had won in a Tameside Reporter competition held before the Coronation). 

Ian said: “It proved to be a very popular attraction as it gave people the opportunity to have their photo taken with King Charles!”

Ian now prepares to take up his District Governor role on July 1.

ROYAL APPEARANCE: ‘Prince Charles’ at the Great Britain and Ireland stand, the cut-out king travelling all the way from Stalybridge to America for the 'cultural exchange'.