FELLOWSHIP at the Murrabit and District Lions Club is one of the strongest on display in the region according to district governor, Stephen Kazenwadel.
Club members were joined by Mr Kazenwadel, community leaders and members of neighbouring clubs to celebrate the service club’s tireless support to the Murray River town during the past year at the annual changeover dinner last Tuesday.
“It’s a great opportunity for someone from the other side of the district in Wangaratta to reacquaint with what happens over here. There are so many visiting clubs, with great fellowship,” Mr Kazenwadel said.
“I wish we could have what you have at the other end. I would like to transplant this sought of friendship, or encourage it.
“There are many challenges ahead as we enter the centennial year of Lions International, especially growing the membership. But, I am glad to see it is on your agenda. Other clubs in rural towns have all but given up because it just all became too hard. I like the positivity at Murrabit.”
Greg Henry was reinstalled as president, Carmel Flynn as secretary, for the 10th consecutive year, and Patricia McDonald as treasurer, for the 11th consecutive year, by district 201V6 governor elect, Norm Walkington.
“The [Murrabit] Market, which is our main money maker, is where we have great times with plenty of banter between members which is taken in great spirit,” Mr Henry, who became just the second person in the club’s 27-year history to serve two consecutive terms, said.
More than $44,000 was raised at the club’s food stall, trestles and car park duties at the monthly country market, down by close to $10,000 on the 2014/15 year due to rain and heat keeping crowds away.
Representatives from the Murrabit Men’s Shed ($1000), Murrabit Fire Brigade ($250), Murrabit Hall Committee ($1500) and Murrabit Group School ($1100) attended to receive their donations, with $12,000 donated by the club to the local community and $5000 to other projects, causes and donations.
Recent projects include upgrades to the Murrabit cenotaph, with a plaque unveiled this year by Member for Mallee, Andrew Broad and Gannawarra Shire representative, Cr Mark Arians to commemorate the Centenary of ANZAC.
The club catered a barbecue breakfast at the Australia Day ceremony and is currently fundraising for Chris Veldman to go alcohol free for the month of July to raise at least $1000 for upgrades to the cancer accommodation units in Bendigo.
“For a very small community, you only have to refer to the donations list over the past 12 months to realise how dedicated you all are,” Cr Oscar Aertssen said.
