Community
1 December, 2023
Lions launch community shelter
COMMUNITY facilities at Koroit have been boosted with the recent completion of a long-awaited barbecue and shelter at Railway Place.
A project of the local Koroit Lions Club, the shelter was officially opened last Saturday by Moyne Shire mayor Cr Ian Smith and South West Coast MP Roma Britnell.
A crowd estimated at more than 100 gathered at the shelter on the weekend to celebrate the special event – and enjoy a sausage off the barbecue.
Ian Bodycoat from the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail praised the support his team had received from the Lions club and the local community in the development of the rail trail.
Lions president Jim Madden said his group was “thrilled” with the result and paid tribute to the fundraising efforts of members, including those who helped operate the local op shop alongside many volunteers.
Long-time member of the Koroit Lions, Bruce Lowenthal, said the project was “five years in the making” and was completed at a cost of around $140,000.
“It’s taken about five years of negotiations with the council for this to come to fruition but we couldn’t be prouder,” Mr Lowenthal said.
“It’s a great community facility and a very spacious one. The Lions club raised $80,000, the shire contributed $20,000 and the balance came from various trusts for which we’re all grateful.”
As well as providing a community barbecue facility, the shelter will also act as a welcome stop for those enjoying the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail.
The shelter enhances the current playground and fitness precinct, providing a recreational area for locals and visitors.
