PBDA president John Rae awarded life membership

PORTARLINGTON’S John Rae was blindsided by his own business association when members surprised him with life membership last week.

Mr Rae, who has been president of the Portarlington Business Development Association (PBDA) for almost 10 years, was given the honour in recognition of his years of generous and outstanding service to the community of Portarlington and the PBDA.

After hearing of his award, Mr Rae joked that “this was never discussed at the last meeting!”.

He said he was truly surprised, honoured and very grateful to be awarded life membership.

“The PBDA is the most positive group I have been involved with, great talent and commitment exists throughout this group and I have been very fortunate to have their support.

“Support also continues at home from my gorgeous wife Lainey who has been patient, inspirational, very creative and put in hours of work with flyers, directory and answered many phone calls.”

During the PBDA’s social function at Bouchon at Bellarine, a packed room heard how Mr Rae was quick to become involved in local affairs after he and wife Elaine retired to Portarlington in 2000.

Association member Dave Gray said Mr Rae’s commitment to his community was extensive, spanning more than 18 years.

“John actually spends about 32 hours a week doing voluntary work,” Mr Gray said.

“His leadership of the PBDA has resulted in a membership growth from 29 to 158.

“It is now the largest and most dynamic business organisation on the Bellarine.

“Through John’s direct effort we gained a new Woolworths supermarket and United Petroleum station.

“As president of the PBDA, he also instituted the Christmas gift program, which allows needy people to receive gifts that they could not otherwise afford.”

Mr Gray said Mr Rae was a kind, compassionate and loyal person, who cared about people.

“John’s drive and energy is immense,” he said.

“His ongoing commitment to the Portarlington community is enormous and we are grateful for the things he has continued to achieve for the town and its people.” Mr Rae has also been the project leader for the Portarlington Safe Harbour Ferry Group since 2007, vice president of the Portarlington Information Booth since 2015, and held positions of president, vice president and secretary of the Portarlington Community Association.

He has also been involved in many projects in the Portarlington area, including a campaign to save the local swimming pool.

He is also a supporter of the new Bellarine CFA building, Biggest Afternoon Tea, Mussel Festival and Tourism Information Booth.