It’s hard to not come across a community project that they’ve had their paws all over – such is the extent of their commitment to their town and their organisation’s motto: “We serve”.

Further proof of their impact can be seen in their swelling ranks; where many Lions Clubs are haemorrhaging members, the Nambucca Heads club is happily welcoming fresh blood.

In fact at 39 troopers and counting, it seems they’d have a devil of a time getting rid of any of its rusted-on membership – just ask charter-members Barry Duffus OAM and Neville Piggott who’ve now served the club for half a century.

“We’re a big family and a growing family. We enjoy our own company and our relations with the community as well,” president Peter O’Neill said.

On April 6 this year, the Nambucca’s oldest Lions Club will turn 50 years old.

On that very auspicious weekend, Barry and Neville will be celebrating the golden anniversary with present and past Lions and community members who have had close ties with the Nambucca club over that time.

From its first step in 1968 manning collection points at a local Nippers and Mermaids carnival, the Nambucca Heads club has thrown itself head-first into thousands of projects which have bettered our community.

On top of daily duties like manning community barbecues and maintaining Nambucca’s five main parks, Lions members have been instrumental in raising the funds for major infrastructure and events like the kidney dialysis centre, or the Australia Day celebrations.

And you won’t hear a grumble from them for all the thankless tasks they’ve taken upon themselves to see through to completion.

“We took over maintaining the park barbecue areas when we realised it wasn’t being done,” Peter said.

“It’s given us a reputation for reliability.

“And there’s always some funny experiences that we like to share with one another.

“Tales of lawnmowers catching fire or trimming members toenails quickly become legend or lore.” 

In 1984, the club initiated construction of the Bicentennial Walkway from Bellwood to the V-Wall – possibly the most well-used walkway in the Heads today.

This year the club has plans to install a viewing platform at Lions Park, overlooking Main Beach.

And there are countless down-and-out souls who would have suffered in silence if it weren’t for the benevolent financial support of our loyal Lions.

Every year the Lions offer two $500 scholarships to deserving students at Nambucca Heads High School.

“They often celebrate successful kids, but on occasion, like a couple of years ago, the scholarships will go to someone who needs the financial help,” Peter said.

“Without that scholarship, one girl would have had to drop out of school.”

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And the latest venture by the lovely Lions, is a $1300 investment into water safety training for Frank Partridge VC Public School special needs students.

“It’s all about overcoming the fears of water, but also realising the dangers involved,” Peter said.

To be a part of the Lions special celebratory dinner ($30 a head) on April 7 at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club, then RSVP by tomorrow, 6568-7790 or 0408 768-275, or email nambuccaheads@lionsdistrict201n1.org.au

On Friday, April 6, there will be a meet and greet of present and past members at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club from 6.30pm.

And there will also be a barbecue breakfast on Sunday, April 8 at Anzac Park to recognise and remember members’ service to the community.