Award surprise for dad, daughter
Jack Morgan isn't one for pomp and ceremony.
But there was a hint of a smile on his face when the 96-year-old from Hukerenui was presented with a top Rotary award, as was his daughter Shirley Henwood.
The Rotary Club of Whangarei City recently held a special meeting at the Jack Morgan Museum at Hukerenui without Mr Morgan knowing he was the guest of honour and to be awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship. Equally, his daughter was unaware she was also to be a recipient of Rotary's highest honour.
Mr Morgan's collection was stored in his three-bay garage "chokka full of stuff" before it was decided the historic gear should be put on display for the public. A dedicated team of volunteers ensured the idea became reality and in 2010 the museum was opened.
Now Mr Morgan has modified his ride-on lawnmower, by taking off the blade, and once a week makes a dash across State Highway 1 to visit the museum. His eyesight might be failing him, but Mr Morgan's memory is as sharp as ever.
Consultant Larry Robbins was involved in the museum project from the start. "Museums don't just happen. They need the inspiration then the work to get going," he said.
He said the presentation of exhibits and the cataloguing was excellent. "This museum is a testimony to the community and Jack himself."
Mrs Henwood was overwhelmed by the award and thanked everyone who had the museum a reality.
District Governor Lyndsay Ford and his wife Alison made a special trip from Auckland to make the presentation.
