Berrigan Lions Club was chartered in August 1973 with a record membership of 54 members.
Inaugural president Frank Rennick initiated the first Lions project, which was the purchase of land to start the erection of four units for the Noonameena Retirement Village.
It was followed by community fundraising, and receipt of a government grant for the construction of more units.
The completed project of 12 modern units now provide comfortable independent living for Berrigan residents.
In recent history the local group has also donated $25,000 to the Hilltop Accommodation Building at the Albury Cancer Centre.
Now with only 11 members, the Lions need more support from the local community.
The Lions’ list of current projects includes the provision of firewood for not for profit organisations to raffle for their fundraising, the annual Seniors Christmas Party, Dawmac community breakfast and Lions Carols in the Park.
The club also supports youth in their education and development, assisting with the Lions Licola Holiday Camp, Berrigan Shire’s Portsea Camp, junior public speaking and the annual Youth of the Year.
The Lions recently adopted the school’s Fruit Fly Awareness and Education Project which includes teaching primary school children to construct fruit fly traps and annually support local events by manning the entrance gates at the Berrigan Race Club Gold Cup and the Berrigan Show.
The volunteers also maintain the Berrigan Cemetery and the newly erected toilet block.
Another feature of the Berrigan Lions is its catering trailer, which has been used to feed local firefighters and volunteers, as well as being used for community events.
Funds are raised by the Lions through the collection and recycling of old batteries and newspapers, sale of Lions mints, Christmas cakes and regular street stall raffles, with all funds donated back into the local community.
These funds support the Berrigan Hospital, both primary schools, Finley High School, Berrigan Swimming Pool and local aged care facilities.
Money isn’t the only thing donated by the Lions, who provide trauma bears to local essential service groups and through Lions International provide crisis and disaster aid, including collection and donation of used glasses and hearing aids.
To join up as a member and help the Lions with their projects, contact membership chairman Phil Selman on 0419800555.
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