THE Melvin Jones pride of lions grew by four last week when a quartet of Moree Lions Club members were recognised for their long service to the global organisation.

Steve Long, Col Arthur, John Appleby and Brett Farlow were awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Medal – named in honour of the Lions Club founder – at the Jellicoe Park Moree Plains Australia Day celebrations last week.

Between them, Steve, Col, John and Brett have served Moree Lions Club for a combined 108 years.

Moree Lions Club president, Lyn Moore, said the Melvin Jones Fellowship Medal is the highest humanitarian award given to members in recognition of long service and dedication.

“This award acknowledges exceptional dedication to the core principles of Lionism – service, compassion and community,” Lyn said.

Moree Plains deputy mayor, Wayne Tighe, pins an Australia Day badge to Moree Lion Steve Long who, with Brett Farlow, Col Arthur and John Appleby were awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Medal on Australia day.

“Each of these remarkable men have given their time, energy and hearts to the people of Moree.

“Their contributions have strengthened our club and enriched our community in ways that will be felt for many years to come,” she said.

“Together, they have contributed more than 100 years of service to our great community.

“Their commitment, generosity, and willingness to step forward when help is needed truly embodies what it means to be a Lion.”

Lyn said Australia Day was the perfect backdrop to celebrate and recognise Moree Lions Club’s long-serving members.

“Australia Day is a time to recognise people who have achieved remarkable things, whether through personal dedication or through the work of a group or club that helps make their community a better place to live,” Lyn said.

Moree Lions (from left) Steve Long, Brett Farlow, Col Arthur and John Appleby were awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Medal at the Jellicoe Park Moree Plains Australia Day celebrations.

Steve Long said he was invited to join Moree Lions by Ron Hardman 29 years ago.

“Ron explained how Lions work and how they serve the community – one good turn a day is 365 smiles a year,” Steve said.

“Over the years I have filled the role of president, but much prefer to create change and not be involved in the admin side of things.

“In the early years, we built picnic areas in Moree, and also built a shed for Gwydir Industries,” he said.

Since starting more than 70 years ago, Moree Lions Club has raised more than one million dollars from events around town.

The famous Lions barbecue, offering snag and steak sandwiches as well as bacon and egg brekky rolls, is responsible for a portion of money raised over the years, and will be serving hot food bright and early at today’s Jellicoe Park Moree Markets.

“This money is donated back to community needs such as schools, or equipment for our hospital,” Steve said.

“To be recognised as a Melvin Jones award recipient was not expected for something I enjoy doing, but gratefully accepted on Australia Day.”

John Appleby joined Moree Lions in the mid-1990s.

Now 85, he says he’s slowed down a fair bit in recent years after joining Lions to support the Moree community.

“I’ve had a good time doing it,” John smiled.

“There is a lot of pleasure doing things for other people, and that’s the main reason I did it for so many years.

“We’ve got a good group at the moment, plenty of good workers, but there’s always room for more – especially those with a bit a bit of youth in their legs,” he laughed.

“I encourage people to join Lions, especially the younger people. It’s a lot of fun and very satisfying when you know you’re helping your local community,” he said.

Want to become a Moree Lion?

Contact Beth Hearn on 0427 824300 or call down to the Lions barbecue at Moree Markets today.