call for helpers

Cowaramup Lions Club members have a busy few months on their hands — and they need some fresh blood to help out.

The club hosts its annual charity auction at Cowaramup Oval on March 7.

President Merv Smith said more donations of goods for auction were welcome, along with new members to help on the day.

But contributions of any sort are needed in the face of an ageing volunteer base — despite Cowaramup’s prolific growth.

“We need some younger members, but just members, really,” Mr Smith told the Times.

“The club’s got good strength and we’re a pretty active club, but we rely on a lot of help from the community.

“Really, the strength of the club is the community support we get.”

Veteran Lions said many younger residents might feel busy lives left little time to volunteer, but even a few hours were appreciated.

“Some people don’t join because they think they can’t make a big enough contribution, but all of it is welcome,” Mr Smith said.

“Just five hours might be helpful.”

Without younger Lions, the onus fell to retirees, but there were many projects residents could join, he said.

The Lions continue their support for the Cowaramup Men’s Shed as well as the burgeoning community garden project in Parkwater. There are also plans to restore Cowaramup’s historic railway siding and turn it into a community precinct, with three aged railway cars coming from Pemberton.

Volunteer Max Foster said thecarriages would need full restoration and skilled volunteers could get involved.

The club celebrated Cowaramup’s growth and noted fly-in, fly-out workers might not be able to join, but encouraged other residents with a stake in the town’s future to come along to a regular meeting.

For donations to next month’s auction, contact Mr Foster on 0407 477 299.

The club meets twice a month at the Cowaramup Club.

For inquiries phone Mr Smith on 0407 445 020.