Local resident Jim Devine has been awarded the Lions Club International Leadership Medal for his work with the Lions Club of Emu Plains.

He received the prestigious award on 28th August at the Virtual District Changeover Meeting. The District is made up of the metropolitan area and comprises of over 70 clubs.

“The award is the 3rd highest award that is Internationally presented to an individual. This was for not only my Lions Club work, but also for recognition for bringing awareness to Parkinson’s and Donatelife” explained Jim to the Emu and Leonay Gazette.

Jim’s award comes from a nomination put forward by the Lions Club District Governor, which is then ratified by Lions International in the US.

“This award means a great deal to me as someone with Parkinson’s. I can bring awareness to the community and likewise with Donatelife, as my granddaughter became a liver transplant recipient at the age of 4 months.

Coincidentally, she just celebrated her 14th birthday the same day I received this award” he reflected.

“It is recognition of the individual and the Lions Club of only 14 members, that it’s possible to achieve prestigious awards despite our limitations” continued Jim.

Mr Devine has been a member of the Lions Club of Emu Plains for 7 years. His current role with the club is Publicity Officer.

He has previously received the Melvyn Jones Medal for Excellence within his club, Ted Tricker Memorial Trophy for Best District Newsletter for 3 years in a row and the Anthony Cheung Trophy for Best District Media Release.

“The International Leadership Medal is not only recognised Internationally, but also a first for our club” he said.

Jim took voluntary redundancy from employment due to his Parkinson’s. Current Lions Club of Emu Plains President Alan Cooper, whom he knew previously from a Little Athletics Committee, asked him to join soon after.

“Being a Lion allowed me to give back to the local community and charities, plus apply my skills and learn new skills” he ended.