JEAN and Ben Comello are the backbone of Leitchville.
The pair works tirelessly behind the scenes across a number of community groups, from serving residents weekly religious addresses, the town’s senior citizens to catering at large town gatherings.
So, it was little wonder that the married couple of close to 60 years were awarded the Lions Club of Leitchville community award at last month’s Australia Day celebration.
“Usually someone talks or lets it out, but we had no idea what so ever,” Jean said.
“Our daughter, Louise, came up from Bendigo, and I was thinking through the speeches why she was there,” Leitchville Football Club life member, Ben said.
“You don’t volunteer and work to be acknowledged, but it just makes it more appreciative.
“When we retired we had the time. We have to do something; that is why I have the garden too big and grow plans to sell at markets.”
Jean said while living in such a small community, with its population declining and ageing, those that can volunteer time are encouraged.
“Our children didn’t go to Leitchville Primary School but we still work with the school with whatever is going on,” Jean said.
“It just gives you sense of being in the community and being amongst the community.”
Jean, 75, is currently the Leitchville Senior Citizens president, while assisting to provide weekly church services across the town.
Ben, 77, emigrated from Italy in 1955, working at a tobacco farm in Bright and Myrtleford before relocating to Gunbower Island.
Jean grew up at Perricoota Station, near Moama, and met Ben while playing badminton in Torrumbarry.
The pair married in in 1958 and yielded five children; Louise, 57, Mark, 56, Gary, 53, Andrew, 50, and Travis, 42.
They have 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
“To be able to communicate and mix, you have to join sporting groups and make yourself
“As I said on the night, so long as health continues to be good and we are available we can and will help.”
