Syd Savage. Photo: Ash Long

This bloke – Syd Savage – is pretty special to our family.

So we were delighted to hear that Syd was named as Murrindindi Shire’s Senior Citizen of the Year.

The award was presented on Australia Day at Eildon by Cr Jackie Ashe.

Syd, 79, was recognised for many community service achievements, including his 45 years as a Charter Member of the Lions Club of Eildon.

Born at Alexandra on August 1, 1940, Syd was raised in the area, and his jobs have included driving a Fallon’s school bus for 35 years, as well as the local tow truck.

In July 1975, about 25 local men and their families came together to form the Lions Club, which meets fortnightly on the second and fourth Wednesdays, 6.30pm for 7pm.

Some of their early fundraisers were cleaning windows at the Golden Trout Hotel, and recycling paper, sent to Broadford by rail.

The club funded sprinklers in Moore Park, improvements in the Lions Park, the viewing platform at the Pondage, a play-ground and toilet block.

The Lions have their own clubhouse, and are keen for younger members to join.

One of their major achievements was establishing a 40-person camp at Big River.

More recently, the Club’s activities have included a $13,000 donation to bushfire disaster, $6000 of which is providing water tanks.