Loyal Toastmasters members receive honorary memberships
Newcastle Toastmasters Club, Merewether, NSW
The Newcastle Toastmasters Club, the oldest in the Hunter, presented honorary memberships to Brian Prior and Trevor McIlveen on 29th June 2023 for years of dedicated service.
Anna Hill, a leader in the Newcastle community, presented a tribute to Prior. David Heggart, 1992-1993 Toastmasters District 70 Governor, spoke on stage with McIlveen to share stories about the area’s history.
Prior was brought in to rescue the Newcastle Toastmasters Club in 2009 when only five members remained. The membership base grew and maintained a steady flow of followers under Prior’s leadership.
McIlveen provided loyalty and stability as he participated in the club until 2023.
The Newcastle Toastmasters Club supports leadership, communication and public speaking skills. Members’ backgrounds include professional careers, mental health experiences, personal adversity and journeys from shyness to confidence.
Toastmasters International sets a club mission to provide a “supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.”