Basil's story is a story by numbers: two continents, four Rotary Clubs, 50 Years of Rotary Service - are all an integral part of the Basil Ornellas story
Basil was born in Johannesburg on 9 August 1936. His first successful move in life was to marry Edith, who has supported him throughout his Rotary life.
Basil owned and operated a service station and became an 'amateur comedian'. He joined the RC of Orange Grove in South Africa in 1972, at the age of 35. After spreading a series of bad jokes in the late 70s, Basil was invited to leave South Africa and come to Australia, where his sense of humour was right at home!
Basil joined the RC of Doncaster in the early 1980s, was President in 1989/90, and held most other positions in the club over 30 years, earning a Paul Harris recognition.
Moving to the south-eastern area of Melbourne, he joined the Rotary Club of Glen Eira, where he became involved in all the Club's projects and events, and continually sourced high profile speakers for Club meetings. His dedication was recognised by the award of two more Paul Harris pins. A little less appreciated was his running commentary on the BBQing ability of members.
When the Glen Eira Club wound up in June 2022, Basil and Edith joined the Malvern Rotary Club, where he became involved from day one, acting on occasions as Sergeant and producing the club newsletter
Basil & Edith have two married children - Jacqui Snider and Shaun Ornellas; they also have 4 grandchildren. As an aside, Basil has entertained us for over 15 years with his 'Oldies music' radio show.
Basil is a great Rotarian, who has spent 50 years of his life in living by, and promoting, Rotary's values. Both Basil and Edith are always among the first to put their hand up when volunteers are called for.