Giving back to the community has a been a high priority for Werribee Lions member and Tarneit resident Michael Eather, writes Rebecca Miller.
What’s your connection to the local community?
I’ve lived in Tarneit for six years. Prior to that I lived in other suburbs of Wyndham and have pretty much grown up in the area.
I’m a member of Werribee Lions Club and a couple of years ago I was president. I enjoy being a part of Lions because I get to meet different people and find it rewarding to help others less fortunate.
The most recent projects we’ve been involved in include building a pergola for a Hoppers Crossing mother of two who lost her husband. Some of the members, including myself, helped build it.
We also assisted a deaf lady in Werribee by donating money towards a ‘hearing dog’, which is specially trained to hear noises around the house. After the dog spent a year in training, Lions Club members took it around to the woman’s house to practise in its new environment.
Last year, Werribee Lions donated money for an eco-cubby house for Warringa Park School in Hoppers Crossing. The kids there helped to design it and then an architect brought that design to life.
What do you like about Wyndham?
Having lived here for so long I have lots of family and friends in the area and am looking forward to having a child with my wife this year. Werribee has a lot to offer. We’re lucky to live so close to the city and can easily go to places like Geelong or Torquay for day trips.
What would you like to change in Wyndham?
Traffic is a big issue. Travelling from one place to another is taking longer and longer. I’d like to see more people getting involved with community service work, not just Lions but sports clubs and others.
What do you remember being in the area that no longer is?
Looking out and seeing green paddocks. Now housing is spreading further out. There are lots more people.
What’s your favourite eatery?
Park Hotel and Raffaels. I don’t have a favourite dish at either as I often try something different.
How do you like to spend your downtime?
I do jiu jitsu training in Hoppers Crossing and enjoy walking the tracks beside the Werribee River because it’s peaceful. I also enjoy spending time at Werribee South and going to Wyndham Cache for cake and coffee at weekends.
Every October the Lions have a charity golf day at Werribee Park and I think this area near the K Road Cliffs is the best real estate in the west. I’ve never played golf, but I thoroughly enjoy the views.
