GANNAWARRA Shire Council has paid tribute to the role the Kerang Apex Club played in the development of Apex Park at Reedy Lake.
While the club disbanded in 2003, due to a lack of numbers, the club has left a lasting impression on the town.
During its 71 years of operation, the service club played an integral role within Kerang, contributing to the town’s growth.
Its members helped to establish the Kerang hospital, Kerang baby health centre, Kerang Airport and the creation of the Mitchell Playground.
The club was also heavily involved in the development of Reedy Lake, which today remains a popular recreational ground for locals and tourists alike.
Newly installed signage at the lake honours the role the Apex Club played in their foresight, development and upkeep of the park’s facilities over five decades.
Former Kerang Apex Club member Dennis Greenwood said fellow former members of the club were proud to see the signage, and the fact their hard work and dedication had not gone unnoticed.
“The members and families worked tirelessly to create a safe and enjoyable recreational area at Reedy Lake,” Mr Greenwood said.
Starting with a blank canvas, the club was responsible for bringing the park to life and bringing many families and friends together over the years for picnics, swimming, fishing and watersports.
“The club installed play equipment, toilets, a boat ramp and power,” Mr Greenwood said.
“They also sealed the road, planted trees and installed various water pumps and pump shed, in addition to continuously maintaining the lawns and toilets.”
Mr Greenwood said the lake provided the perfect backdrop for many celebrations over the years, with the Apex Club hosting a range of events, including community Christmas parties, a steam rally, annual duck races and concerts.
“Who could forget the lakeside concerts, even featuring The Little River Band in 1977,” Mr Greenwood said.
The Kerang Apex Club was officially formed in 1932 and was committed to fellowship, self-improvement and community service.
Throughout its 71 years of service, the club was responsible for many initiatives, fundraisers and community events.
“We provided members to drive the ambulance, ran discos for kids, sponsored overseas children, participated in working bees for the elderly, held trade fairs, film nights and fishing competitions, just to name a few,” Mr Greenwood said.
Unlike similar organisations and service groups, Apex was aimed at a younger membership, with members aged between 18 and 40.
“Apex was a young man’s club, fully including our families in all activities,” Mr Greenwood said.
“I would say the fact that we were all in the same age group raising our children, being so inclusive, they turned out to be some of the best years during our life’s journey.”
