KNYSNA NEWS - The Rotary Club of Knysna recently marked a special milestone with a joyful celebration at the Knysna Yacht Club, honouring the 90th birthday of Koos van Eeden, a long-standing and much-loved member of the club.

Van Eeden was awarded Honorary Rotarian status in 2023 and remains actively involved in club activities despite his age; a testament to his enduring commitment to service.

Reflecting on his Rotary journey, Van Eeden said he had become a Rotarian at an early age. "My father was president of the Ceres Rotary Club, and like all presidents, he needed more members, so who is easier to get than your son?"

Van Eeden holds a unique place in the club's history as the only current member who attended the Knysna Club's Charter ceremony 63 years ago. 

At the time, he represented the Ceres Rotary Club at the event, which conveniently coincided with his mother-in-law, Lucy Duthie's birthday, who lived in Knysna, which gave Koos a reason to attend, a decision that would later lead to him relocating to the town and officially joining the Knysna Rotary Club in 1993.

He served as club president in 1999, and his contributions over the decades have earned him great respect and affection within the Rotary community.

The Rotary Club of Knysna continues its mission of service and fellowship, meeting at the Knysna Yacht Club twice a month at 17:30 on the first Tuesday and 13:00 on the third Tuesday.

Interested individuals are welcome to learn more about the club and its work by contacting the club secretary at secretary@knysnarotary.co.za 

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’