Fond farewell for Lions legend leaving town

Margaret River Lions Club past-President Brian Prendergast was on hand to help at the club's bi-monthly shed sale, where plenty of wellwishers came to thank him for his many years of service to the community.

A familiar face at Lions-supported events including the Australia Day barbecue breakfast each year, Mr Prendergast will move to the Perth metro area with beloved wife Kay to be closer to family.

Mr Prendergast's involvement with the Lions began during his time in Collie, where as a business owner he expressed a desire to join a service club.

"I had a profile in the paper saying I was keen to join somewhere, and by 8pm that night I had the Lions knocking on my front door. A Rotary fellow knocked on my door at 8.30pm and I had to tell him he was 30 minutes too late!"

Locals were quick to join the chorus of thanks in person and online, with many comments making the rounds on Facebook.

"A lovely bloke and awesome volunteer, thanks for all you've done," wrote Di Goodridge, while Sean Carter said he was "such an amazing human who really gave back to the town".

"Over the years as a Lions shopper I was one of those people you have touched by your kindness in so many ways," said Annie Corrigan-Endersby.

As Mr Prendergast's three decades of service was recognised, a batch of new club members officially joined the fold.

President Nigel Vangucci welcomed the new members to the club, and said the help from volunteers past and present allows the Lions to support the local community in many ways.

"Our shed sales continue to be really, really successful and we are very keen to pass that success on to groups and clubs in the community who need our help. Every dollar raised through generous support is returned to the community through a grant application process, and we are urging groups or organisations that need some assistance to make contact."

Mr Vangucci said the club had delivered a $10,000 donation to the Royal Flying Doctor Service last month and had undertaken to assist a number of non profit and sporting groups.

If your group or organisation would like to be considered for financial assistance, contact the Lions secretary at margaretriver.wa@lions.org.au

The Mail team would like to extend our thanks to Mr Prendergast for his ongoing collaboration and support of local community news. We wish you and your family all the best for the future.