Lions rally for mass tool drive

AMONG the lives and homes destroyed by recent catastrophic bushfires were people’s most prized possessions, including tools collected across a lifetime.

Trevor Hirth from the Lions Club Portarlington Drysdale said the club decided to collect tools to donate to those who had lost everything and put out a call for donations.

“The club has had an amazing response to this request and have already delivered loads to Bruthen and Corryong, with a further load being gathered to go to Mallacoota within the next few weeks.

“These tools are being distributed through the local Lions Clubs in each area, as they know their communities well and know those in need.”

Mr Firth said the Portarlington Drysdale Lions members have been overwhelmed by the generosity of people and the quality and variety of items donated; from hammers, spades and screwdrivers to power and garden tools, chainsaws and generators.

“Kevin Paisley in Geelong have made a wonderful contribution in donating hundreds of safety glasses, which we know will be very much appreciated.”

The Lions Club of Portarlington Drysdale want to thank all those who’ve donated and supported their appeal.

“In some cases, people have had a good clean out, others have been down-sizing as they are moving in retirement villages. Several others have been widows, who’ve taken a huge step to donate their late husband’s tools,” he said.

“In these cases, we know how emotional and difficult it has been for them, but they can rest assured that they will be given to people who have lost everything as a result of the fires.”

The club is planning several more trips, with donated tools to areas where people are in need within the next few weeks.

Lions Club Torquay will also be collecting tools for donation on March 1 from 1-3pm at Spring Creek Reserve; while Anglesea Lions will run a collection for the Mallacoota Lions Club the same day from 1-3pm, at the car park next to the Anglesea Bowls Club.

If you have tools and are willing to donate, phone co-ordinator Trevor Hirth on 0429 964 204.