LOCAL LIONS GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
June 26, 2013
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is encouraging more residents to get involved with local groups and give back to the community.
Mr Chester has met with members of the Lions Club of Traralgon to congratulate the members on the positive work they carry out within the Latrobe Valley community.
The club, which was formed in 1966 and has 36 members, is noted for its Australia Day Breakfast, Carols by Candlelight, Farmers Market and Senior Citizens Christmas Party.
Most recently the club has supplied a defibrillator to the Traralgon Golf Club; two laptops and accessories to the Gippsland Carers Association; ante-natal and maternity equipment as well as a physiotherapy treatment couch to Latrobe Regional Hospital. The club has also fundraised and donated to the Lions Village Licola, the Big Red Bus and other various community group and organisations.
Mr Chester said the club along with other community groups, make a huge contribution to the local community.
“Our region has thousands of volunteers who donate their own time and work tirelessly for the benefit of the rest of the community,” Mr Chester said.
“Without their support and dedication there would be less local events, sporting groups would fold and the community would suffer.”
Mr Chester said the club was a finalist in this week’s Latrobe City Business Tourism Associations People’s Choice Awards.
“The club’s Carols by Candlelight and Farmers Market were recognised in the Most Popular Community Event category and as a whole the group was nominated in the Most Popular Community Service/Organisation section,” Mr Chester said.
“I commend the efforts of members and urge other local residents to consider joining a local group and giving back to the community.”
Lions Club of Traralgon President Wendy Rudin said the group was pleased with its recent recognition within the community.
“It’s great to be recognised by the community and the nominations are a testament to all our members who work hard to give back to the community,” Mrs Rudin said.
“Anyone can join Lions, we hold regular meetings and are made up of men and women who want to make a difference in our community.”
The Lions Club of Traralgon meets every second and fourth Wednesday for dinner at The Traralgon Golf Club, Princes Highway, Traralgon, from 6pm.
Anyone interested in attending can contact club secretary Bernie Carrington on 5176 1673. Details about the club are also available online at www.traralgon.vic.lions.org.au