Contribution Recognised

Hazel & Ron Missen

James Richardson Honour Award Presentation, 22 February 2026

The James Richardson Honour Award represents the absolute best of Lionism — selfless service, commitment, and stepping up whenever help is needed.

Hazel & Ron Missen were each presented with the James Richardson Honour award, in recognition of their service over many years. They have generously given their time, energy and skills to countless projects, fundraisers, and events. Whether working quietly behind the scenes or helping on the front line, they have always been dependable, positive, and ready to lend a hand.

Ron’s practical support and steady leadership, combined with Hazel’s warmth, and keen sense of fellowship, have strengthened our club and helped us better serve our community.

Most importantly, they serve with humility and teamwork — truly living the Lions motto, Service Above Self.

Klaus Edel

James Richardson Honour Award Presentation, 22nd February 2026

Lion Klaus Edel was presented with the James Richardson Honour award, in recognition of his outstanding service and lasting contribution to both Lions and the wider Inverloch community.

Klaus first joined Lions in 2013 and quickly distinguished himself through his leadership, commitment, and willingness to take on responsibility. He served with distinction as Club President during 2014–2015 and 2015–2016, guiding the Club through two highly effective and productive years. He later continued his dedicated service as Secretary in 2017–2018 and 2018–2019, a role requiring diligence, organisation, and unwavering commitment.

Klaus’s most outstanding contribution to both Lions and the community was the extraordinary effort and dedication he devoted to the planning and construction of the Inverloch Sound Shell. Although it may not have been his idea, he and Lion Gary McAinch ran with the concept and made it a reality. It can truly be said that without Klaus’s leadership, persistence, and direct involvement, this magnificent community asset would never have been built. The Sound Shell stands today as a legacy to his, determination, and belief in the value of community infrastructure that brings people together.

This award recognises Klaus Edel’s exceptional leadership, dedication, and enduring contribution to Lions and to the Inverloch community – qualities that strongly reflect the spirit, service, and legacy of James D. Richardson.

Comments by President, Terry Hall

2026 is going to be a special year for the Inverloch Lions Club.

In June, the Inverloch Lions Club will celebrate 25 years since we were first chartered in 2001.

Over those 25 years, Lions members — ordinary local people who simply wanted to be effective — have worked quietly and consistently to serve this community.

Together, we have contributed more than $700,000 to a wide range of local causes, projects, and people in need. That’s $700,000 raised right here in Inverloch and given straight back to Inverloch Community Last year alone, we donated $27,505 to 28 different community groups and causes.

And this year, we are working with Council and another Inverloch Community group, towards the planning and construction of a pedestrian and wheelchair ramp into the Glade. And it all happens because of events just like this.

The Community Market you’re enjoying this morning is one of the key ways we raise funds. Another example is the Sound Shell behind me, which Lions initiated and helped build — a facility that now belongs to the whole community for performances, celebrations, and gatherings like today.

But buildings and events don’t just happen on their own. They happen because of people. People willing to give up their time. People willing to lend a hand. People who believe in service above self.

And as we look to the future, we’re always looking for new members — people who would like to join us and help continue this work. So, if you’ve ever thought about getting involved in the community, we’d love to have a chat with you.

Now, while every Lion volunteer goes about quietly serving the community, from time to time there are some whose service is so resolute and significant that it deserves special recognition.

Today, I have the great honour, on behalf of the Inverloch Lions Club, of presenting three James D. Richardson Honour Awards — recognising outstanding service to Lionism and to our community.

These three recipients represent the absolute best of what Lions stands for — commitment, generosity, and tireless service to others. Our community is stronger because of people like them.