We may think we now our members well but there are always surprises. This week Jim Wilson gave us some of his story behind the badge.
Jim was born in 1958, 9 months after the Melbourne Cup. His parents were great race goers. He has 2 sisters and 1 brother and grew up in Heidelberg Heights. Family history has them arriving in Australia in the 1830’s. They were blacksmiths who helped make Ned Kelly’s armour.
He was educated by the nuns and the Cristian brothers. Jim was the Cadet Captain in 1971. They still meet as a group on regular occasions.
Jim started university as a Chemical Engineer but ended up with his true calling as an accountant. He listened to his mother.
His many roles over the years have been mainly in the manufacturing and finance area. His secret super power is that he can accurately count stock. A lot of his time was involved in buying, selling and restructuring businesses. He is currently with the ANZ bank working with IT.
Jim has had 22 years in Rotary, with many roles in both the club and district. It has been a major part of his life. One of his best time in Rotary was the Simpson desert trip.
He has also been Chairman CCC in Pakenham working with underprivileged people.
Family life involves travelling, dancing and gardening. He is married to Josie. They have 3 children Michael, Robert, Claire and 5 grandkids.
They lived in Berwick for many years and now call Pakenham home.
Jim’s advice in Rotary is: Simply say yes when someone asks you to do a job. You will have more fun. If you cannot think of a good reason to say no, say yes.