Our People
1 August, 2026
Ararat Lion receives organisation's highest honour
LONG-serving Ararat Lions Club member Jo Richie has been recognised for her outstanding dedication to community service, receiving the organisation's highest individual honour. At the recent Lions District Changeover Dinner in Willaura, Ms Richie was presented with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship, an award that recognises Lions members who have made an exceptional contribution to the organisation and the communities they serve.
The fellowship is named after Melvin Jones, the founder of Lions Clubs International.
Born in Fort Thomas, Arizona, Jones established what would become one of the world's largest service organisations, with more than 1.4 million members across approximately 46,000 clubs worldwide.
The fellowship is regarded as one of the highest forms of recognition within Lions, celebrating members whose service reflects the organisation's values of leadership, compassion and community.
Outgoing Lions District Governor Susan Eyton presented the award to Ms Richie during the district changeover celebrations, describing her as an exemplary Lion whose commitment has had a lasting impact on clubs across the district.
Over recent years, Ms Richie has played a significant role not only within the Ararat Lions Club but also in supporting neighbouring clubs.
She has been instrumental in helping the Stawell Lions Club rebuild, generously sharing her time and experience to strengthen the organisation's presence in the region.
She also played a pivotal role in the successful staging of the 2025 Lions District Convention in Stawell, helping coordinate the extensive planning and behind-the-scenes work required to deliver the major event.
Despite her extensive service, Ms Richie said receiving the fellowship came as a complete surprise.
"It was awarded to me by the district cabinet and the outgoing District Governor, Susan Eyton, at the district changeover," she said.
"I didn't expect it at all. It was a huge shock."
While the award recognises years of dedication, Ms Richie said she simply enjoys contributing wherever she can and helping create opportunities for members to connect.
"I certainly get involved in the behind-the-scenes stuff," she said.
"I look after the social side of things and help organise social functions and when we get together to have a meal."
She believes one of the greatest strengths of Lions is the sense of community it creates, bringing together people from all walks of life with a shared desire to serve others.
"Lions allows you to meet lots of different people from different backgrounds and you get to try new skills," she said.
"You also get to meet some incredible people and great friendships are formed."
Ms Richie's recognition reflects not only her tireless volunteer work but also the spirit of service that underpins the Lions movement.
Her willingness to support fellow clubs, organise events and foster strong relationships has made her a highly respected member of the organisation and a worthy recipient of its highest honour.
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