Tralee Rotary Club Honours Five Members With Paul Harris Fellow Recognition

THE Rotary Club of Tralee  has honoured five members with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow recognition, one of Rotary International’s highest awards, during a special presentation by outgoing Club President Dr. Daniel Onyekwere.

The Paul Harris Fellow is awarded in recognition of individuals whose dedication, generosity, and commitment to the ideals of Rotary have made a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. Named after Rotary founder Paul Harris, the honour reflects Rotary’s enduring motto of “Service Above Self.”

Presenting the awards, President Dr. Daniel Onyekwere paid tribute to the recipients for their outstanding service and unwavering commitment to the values of Rotary.

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“Each of these recipients has demonstrated exceptional dedication to serving others,” he said.\

“Their generosity of spirit, commitment to our club, and contributions to the wider community embody everything Rotary stands for. It is a privilege to recognise their achievements with the Paul Harris Fellow award.”

The recipients were recognised for their individual contributions to both the Rotary Club of Tralee and the wider community.

Grace O’Donnell was honoured for her exceptional leadership and decades of dedicated service to Rotary.

During her Rotary career, she has served as Club Secretary, President of the Rotary Club of Tralee, and Assistant Governor with Rotary Ireland, providing leadership and support to clubs across the district.

Beyond Rotary, Grace also served with distinction as Mayor of Tralee, reflecting her lifelong commitment to public service and community development. Her unwavering dedication to helping others has made her an outstanding ambassador for Rotary’s ideals.

Grace has played a pivotal role in organising and delivering countless Rotary fundraising events, community projects, conferences, and civic occasions over the years.

Dr. George Phillips, Consultant Paediatrician at Kerry University Hospital, received the Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his distinguished professional service and his commitment to improving the lives of children and families throughout Kerry.

Alongside his medical career, Dr. Phillips has been an active and dedicated Rotarian, generously supporting the club’s humanitarian and community service projects.

Daniel Giles, a respected auctioneer based in Tralee, was honoured for his contribution to Rotary as Treasurer for the las number of years and his commitment to community service.

Through his active involvement in club activities, fundraising events, and local initiatives, Daniel has consistently demonstrated Rotary’s spirit of service. He is also well known through his longstanding association with Tralee Rugby Club, where he has generously supported the club and contributed to the development of rugby within the local community.

Bernard Privett was recognised for his many years of dedicated service to the Rotary Club of Tralee.

His loyalty, leadership, and commitment to the club’s charitable and community activities have made him a highly respected member whose contribution has helped strengthen Rotary’s work both locally and internationally.

In addition to his Rotary service, Bernard is actively involved with the Probus Club, where he continues to promote friendship, fellowship, and community engagement among retired and semi-retired members, further reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and civic involvement.

Reverend Robert Warren, who has strong connections with both Tralee and Dublin, was also honoured with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

A member of the Church of Ireland, Rev. Warren has made a valued contribution to community and civic life through his work in the Church and his involvement with the wider community. His commitment to people, fellowship and service reflects the core principles of Rotary and its motto of “Service Above Self.”

The presentation highlighted the important role volunteers continue to play in strengthening communities.

Through the dedication of members such as Grace O’Donnell, Bernard Privett, Dr. George Phillips, Reverand Robert Warren and Daniel Giles, the Rotary Club of Tralee continues to support local charities, youth programmes, health initiatives, and international humanitarian projects.