COMMITTEE FOR LORNE: A WORD FROM THE CHAIRMAN – November 22, 2018

What an amazing weekend of activity in Lorne for so many different reasons and if there were any doubters out there as to the ongoing advantages of having a vibrant, community focused, Lorne Angling and Aquatic Club – then it’s time to think again! Over the weekend our leading Commodore, Keith Miller, was front and centre in three ocean rescues all of which required off shore marine assistance.

Not having any coast guard sea and rescue services at the beck and call of our blue water enthusiasts, the risks associated
with boating in this area are greater than the norm with the rescue services that do exist, based far from Lorne. It is times like these recent rescues, and many from the past, that it is so comforting to know that we have such a group of skilled volunteers ready to jump into action.

Night or day, we have committed community members, across many varied disciplines, going above and beyond in their endeavors to help others.

It was with a touch of jovial good humor when our Commodore Keith was returning home late on Sunday evening after a
rescue, that he attracted a subtle “barb” from another strong local volunteer, one with a strong Local Government connection.

The latter, enjoying a night out with good friends at a local restaurant caught a glimpse of the Green Tractor heading
down Mountjoy Parade following the third successful rescue, texted the Commodore with a message of request to slow down so as to ensure the tractor noise didn’t upset the wine. It was all in good jest and a sign of the immense mutual held for all.

It should however, not be too much of a surprise given the volunteer culture of our town. Whether it be CFA, SES, our local police and ambulance services or the amazing team at the Lorne Community andHospital Op shop, just to name a few, all of whom support so many. We are so lucky to enjoy the culture that is Lorne.

In recognition of one of our finest, the “Camel Lily Pond Walk” will be officially opened at 2-00pm on Sunday 25th of November. The naming of this beautiful walk pays tribute to the contribution to the reserve and to the Lorne Community by Michael “Camel” Callanan and all are invited to attend.

On Monday last, there was a follow-up meeting, initiated by the Lorne Business and Tourism Association (LBTA). Those present included representatives from the executive team of the Amy Gillett Foundation, Surf Coast Shire, Vic Roads, Emergency Services and Community Members. It was well facilitated by  Tony Elder and in my view, brought all
stakeholders closer together in ensuring the 2019 Gran Fondo event is one of the most successful yet.

Don’t forget to mark in your diary two important dates. First, the final Committee for Lunch for 2018 on Friday December 7 and then Annual General Meeting on December 13 at 5.30 pm at the Lorne Leisure Centre.

Ian Stewart
Chairman – Committee for Lorne