The Brits-Hartbeespoort Rotary Club honoured two environment champions with the esteemed Paul Harris Fellow Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to environmental stewardship and community upliftment.

Dion Mostert,Rod Genricks, District Governor nominee Grace van Zyl, outgoing club president Roy Tolfts, and past district governor Annie Steyn at the back.

The event celebrated the inspiring work of Dion Mostert and Rod Genricks, both non-Rotarians who have embodied the very essence of “Service Above Self.”
Named after Rotary’s founder, the Paul Harris Fellow Award recognition is one of the highest honours Rotary bestows, celebrating individuals who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to humanitarian and development efforts.
Dion Mostert, a pioneering entrepreneur and long-time champion of Hartbeespoort’s tourism economy, was recognised for his decades-long dedication to uplifting the region through innovative, community-focused initiatives. From launching tourism businesses at a young age, Dion has continually combined business savvy with a deep community spirit. Faced with challenges such as the spread of invasive water hyacinth in the dam, Dion advocated for sustainable solutions and environmental awareness while helping preserve local livelihoods. His visionary plans include heritage-focused tourism experiences, museums, and partnerships with conservation organisations working within the Hartbeespoort Biosphere.
Rod Genricks, Managing Director of Eco-Tabs Gauteng and Eco-Tabs Global, was honoured for his tireless work in environmental rehabilitation via bioremediation processes across South Africa. His innovative approach to eco-restoration, supported by sonar testing and scientific solutions, has brought new life to severely impacted water bodies.
Rod’s influence extends beyond environmental science. His passionate involvement in combating rhino poaching and advocating for ecological justice reflects a values-driven life in service to both nature and society. Though he often works behind the scenes, the results of his efforts are visible in cleaner waterways, healthier ecosystems, and strengthened community resilience.
“Although neither Dion nor Rod are Rotarians, their lives reflect everything Rotary stands for,” said presenter John Wesson during the ceremony. “Their impact reminds us that service knows no title and that lasting change often begins with quiet determination and a single vision. By welcoming them into the global family of Paul Harris Fellows, the Rotary Club proudly reaffirms its commitment to recognising outstanding service wherever it’s found – in boardrooms, on boats, in the bush, or behind the scenes of environmental action.”