Service club seeking community-minded members

Balclutha Lions Club members Ivan Martin (left) and Rodney Jopson get ready to prepare a delivery...
Balclutha Lions Club members Ivan Martin (left) and Rodney Jopson get ready to prepare a delivery of firewood for local pensioners at the club’s Balclutha wood store last week. PHOTO: RICHARD DAVISON
A Balclutha service club is looking for community-minded locals to put a smile on people’s faces.

Balclutha Lions Club president Ivan Martin said the club had taken a hit from Covid in recent years, dropping from a healthy membership of 22 in 2018 to a current roster of eight.

Mr Martin said the club would not be stopping its many community activities, but additional members were sought.

"I think a lot of people know Lions internationally for its aid in the big headline disasters around the world

... but we’re also carrying out regular community activities here in Clutha too."

The Balclutha club contributed through direct assistance with things such as tidying local rest-home gardens and fundraising selling firewood.

The club had sold about 70sqm of firewood this year, contributing funds to young people taking part in activities such as the Spirit of Adventure and leadership courses.

Some firewood was also given directly to those in need, Mr Martin said.

The club also had mobility scooters available to the community.

"Where the club can give a helping hand through our fundraising activities, we’ll take a look."

Balclutha had a good split of men and women, and couples were welcome, he said.

"Given where we’re at at present, we’d welcome all input, and are very open to new fundraising or community project ideas from anyone wanting to come along and get involved."

Interested people can drop in to the club’s open meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday, May 23, at the South Otago Town & Country Club, or give Mr Martin a call on (027) 300-6324.