Our President was proud to join in the celebration of a remarkable milestone this week, as Canterbury Inner Wheel marked its 100th anniversary. She delivered a warm speech at the event, extending congratulations on behalf of all the three Rotary Clubs in Canterbury.
“Any organisation reaching its centenary is indeed something to both cherish and celebrate,” said Maxine. “Especially when this has been achieved through times of major political, economic, and social change.”
Reflecting on the transformative century that has passed, she highlighted key moments in history that shaped women’s lives – from the Equal Franchise Act of 1928 to the dramatic expansion of higher education in the 1990s, which opened new doors for women in academic and professional spheres. “In some subject areas such as health and medical sciences, women now even outnumber men,” she noted.
Maxine had been invited to give a speech on behalf of all three of Canterbury’s Rotary Clubs, and was joined at the event by the only two men there – the President of Forest of Blean, Paul Nolan, and the President of Sunrise, Gary Robinson. During her speech Maxine celebrated the enduring and close relationship between the Inner Wheel and Rotary in Canterbury. “And I mean close relationships,” she added with a smile, referencing the 41 Rotary Presidents who have been married to Inner Wheel Presidents over the years!
She fondly recalled notable couples throughout the clubs’ histories—starting with the Bigglestones in 1925, followed by the Bayntons, Youngs, Brownings, and Hamiltons, and more recently the Martins, Kerrs, Roses, Banks, Beers and the Pritchards. “Of course, and sadly, many of the above have now passed on to ‘higher service’ as we say in Rotary, but are still fondly remembered by us all.”
Looking ahead, Maxine emphasised the shared values and continued collaboration between the two organisations. “As we move forward, evolving along differing paths, the mutuality of our common values will ensure that we remain close, working together to support vulnerable communities in Canterbury and internationally.”
She concluded by thanking the Inner Wheel for their hospitality. “Thank you for a lovely lunch today and I look forward to joining you in more of your centenary events over the coming weeks. We hope everyone enjoyed the cake!”
“Happy 100th birthday, Canterbury Inner Wheel!”
Picture: President of the three Canterbury Rotary Clubs – Paul Nolan (Forest of Blean), Gary Robinson (Sunrise) and Maxine Blades (our club). Picture credit: Canterbury Inner Wheel/The Rotary Club of Canterbury.
