Two members of Westbury Lions Club have been recognised with the organisation’s highest honour for their service to the community.
Heather Blackley and Geoff Curtis have both been awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship, a prestigious accolade named after the founder of Lions Clubs International.
“The Melvin Jones Fellowship recognises Lions who go above and beyond in serving both the organisation and the wider community,” said Westbury Lions President Angie Fawcett. “Heather and Geoff are both thoroughly deserving recipients. They have shown fantastic dedication and have done tireless work for the Westbury Lions and wider Westbury community.
“Heather has contributed in so many ways. She has served as secretary, taken on district youth roles and is now our PR officer. She has also put in an enormous amount of time organising systems for events like the Donkey Derby. Her commitment is remarkable.
“Geoff, who recently received his 10-year service pin, was recognised particularly for his work supporting younger members through the Leo Club. He is always there when needed and gives so much back to the community. His work with the Leo Club has been invaluable. Thanks to his efforts, it has grown into a strong and committed group of young people who represent the future of Lions in Westbury.
“It’s great to see Heather and Geoff receive this recognition but the success of the club depends very much on teamwork. We are very much a team and everyone plays their part.”
Westbury Lions continue to organise a variety of popular events in the community including the Donkey Derby – coming up later this month – a 10k fun run, the Santa Christmas Float and a Senior Citizens Party as well as supporting other community events. They raise funds for a variety of local, national and international good causes.
Heather said, “I am truly humbled to receive this prestigious award. It is a great honour, and I sincerely appreciate the recognition and support from my fellow Lions who have been part of my Lions journey.
“I do what I do simply to help others and never for recognition and this came as a complete surprise. I am completely blown away and deeply grateful for such recognition.
“The most rewarding part of being a Lion is being able to help others and make a positive difference in our community. There is nothing better than bringing smiles to people’s faces and knowing that even a small act of kindness can make a huge difference in someone’s life. The most rewarding part is being with friends and making a difference together.”
