Tears of relief: Lions club helps fire victims in dire need

“We are proud that funds raised from our recent rodeo have been distributed back to members of our community at their time of greatest need,” she said.

Katamatite Lions Club secretary Cheryl Hill said they donated $2500 to five different families who had lost their homes in the fire.

“We also donated $500 to each of the backpackers that lost all their things so they could replace their items,” she said.

Ms Hill said that she personally called each of the families to let them know they would be receiving a donation from the club.

“It was very emotional,” she said.

“I had one person break down in tears because they were elsewhere, and they needed new clothes for an appointment ... so they broke down because that money would go to getting them some new clothes.

“It meant a lot to these families because they really needed the money now, instead of waiting for grants.”

The club handed the cheque over to district governor Paul Shortis and his wife, Lynda, at the general meeting on Wednesday, February 4.