John Phoenix, John Blackwell and Bruce Tarran were each celebrated for their long-standing contributions to the RSL sub branch at its Black Tie Ball on Saturday, October 17.
Seymour RSL Club president Matt McLaughlin said the decision to recognise the men in this way was unanimous.
“There was no objection to it at all. It was a 100 per cent unanimous decision by the committee,” Mr McLaughlin said.
While each new life member has since stepped down, Mr McLaughlin said all three had been on the committee for as long as he had been there.
While they no longer have formal management roles, Mr Phoenix, Mr Tarran and Mr Blackwell continue to contribute to the club.
“The advocacy for us younger people (on the current committee) is where it continues,” Mr McLaughlin said.
“They’re always the first to say, ‘these guys know what they’re doing’ to support us.
“They did a lot for the RSL back in their day, and I just feel that not enough people have been recognised for what they’ve done. It’s about time we start recognising those people.”
Ahead of the Black Tie Ball, none of the three men knew they would be receiving their life memberships.
“I think they were very speechless, and they might not ever admit it, but I think they were a bit emotional,” Mr McLaughlin said.
“They were a bit taken aback, but very appreciative.”
Mr McLaughlin said life membership was a significant recognition.
“It just shows the commitment to the organisation and the continuing support,” he said.
“These guys now don’t have to pay membership ever again, and they’ve paid membership for about 50 years, so it’s time we gave back to them.”
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, who attended the ball alongside Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell and Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall, congratulated the three men.
“Life membership is a significant honour, reflecting years of commitment and service to the organisation and its members,” Ms Cleeland said.
“I also congratulate the Seymour RSL on a wonderful Black Tie Ball. It was a fitting opportunity to recognise the people who have given so much to support veterans, serving personnel and their families.”
Mr McLaughlin said, while numbers were down for this year’s ball, it was a successful night, with free tickets granted to current and former service members.
“It gets that psychosocial side of things back, gets them out of the house, making sure they know they’re not alone and we’re there for them,” he said.
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