Ken shared his personal story about how in 2014, he travelled to Tibet with the challenge of scaling 7200-metre Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth highest mountain, achieving one of the world’s highest every paragliding flights, launching his glider near the summit – all to raise awareness of Rotary’s push to eradicate polio worldwide.

Ken spoke of his preparation, the need to plan carefully, and the challenges of acute mountain sickness. 

Ken, who is 56 years old, has a lifetime and amazingly unique and impressive record of achievements using his life for the good of others.

He was born in Sydney, spent 17 years in the NSW Police Force as an instructor at the Academy, Water Police and Police Rescue Squad, performing primary response to emergencies and rescue incidents.

He has received countless commendations and recognition for his dedication and service.

In 2000, Ken carried the Olympic Torch after being selected following his community work as a policeman and his achievements as an athlete, twice winning the decathlon at the World Police Games and successes in open athletic competitions.

In 2004, after the devastating Asian tsunami at Banda Aceh which killed over 200,000 people, he travelled with Father Chris Riley, where they constructed a tent child-care facility for orphans.

He was commended for his humanitarian service by the federal government.

Funds raised from last week’s dinner will be donated to the Rotary Foundation’s “End polio now” campaign. With only 20 cases reported this year, Rotarians with the support of Bill and Melinda Gates of the Gates Foundation, Rotarian Ken Hutt and all Rotarians worldwide are determined to be there to the end – to make this a reality.

For further information about Rotary clubs in the Illawarra contact stephen.knightley@gmail.com; dothennessy@gmail.com or call 0412 120 314.