By Henry Drury
Noel Lucas was 15 years of age when he joined the Rochester Swimming Pool Building Committee, signalling the start of his long commitment to community service.
Working as a skilled metalworker in the century-old family farm machinery business, Blacksmith & Coachbuilders was only part of Noel’s day. He was also president of the local Young Farmers Club until he reached the compulsory retirement age of 25, after which he was invited to become a foundation member of the Rochester Lions Club.
However, it was Lion’s great loss and Rotary’s great gain that in 1969, the Rotary Club of Rochester inducted Noel to join his charter member father-in-law.
Since then, Noel has been Club President; chaired most Service Committees; worked hands-on in numerous Club projects; and, is a multiple PHF recipient. In 1974, he was recruited as Secretary for the District 278 Conference held in Dallas Brooks Hall in 1977. (Historical note: D278 became D980(0) in 1987.)
Noel’s most memorable Rotary project was in 2005 when he was leader of a Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) team rebuilding a school at Balibarin East Timor. This led to membership of other friendship groups, along with regular visits every second year for two months to Ainaro to assist his wife Robyn, a teacher, with English classes, as well as enjoy Timorese village life.
Other achievements that Noel modestly mentions include 21 years as a member of the Rochester and Elmore District Health Service Board; 11 years in the CMF (Citizen Military Forces); and, being awarded Rochester Citizen of the Year in 1992.
Since retiring as a plant operator in the water and wastewater industry, Noel has indulged in his hobby of movie making, spending time on Outback properties supporting Volunteers for Isolated Students Education.
Whilst Rotary has undergone many changes, Noel believes the most significant positive change has been the inclusion of women and that overall, “the basic foundations of Rotary and its ideals remain strong.”
Noel is grateful for having good health for making life a memorable journey, and to his family for their unfailing support.