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Senior Citizen of the Year announced

Eric Grant of Newborough is Latrobe City’s Senior Citizen of the Year.

By Latrobe City Council - 16th March 2004 - Back to News

Mr Grant was presented with his award by Latrobe City’s Mayor, Councillor Graeme Middlemiss, at a ceremony held on Sunday at Gippsland Heritage Park Moe, celebrating the start of this year’s Seniors Festival in Latrobe City.

In congratulating Mr Grant, Cr Middlemiss said Eric had for many years given generously to the community. "His great passion is dancing and in this area his countless work and enthusiasm has enabled countless other people to enjoy dancing," Cr Middlemiss said.

At age 17, Eric was asked to ‘do up’ the floor of the Moe Mechanics Institute so that it would be suitable for dancing for the Moe Church of England. Eric not only maintained the floor, but also manned the door and acted as MC at the church’s regular dances.

He has been a member of the Upwey, Geelong, Warragul, Moe and Traralgon Old Time Dance Clubs. He has been president, vice-president, and committee member for the Moe Old Time Dance Club which has run regular dances for over 20 years. He has often acted as MC.

For thirteen years he ran a ‘New Vogue’ dance club in the Newborough Hall. With his vast knowledge and experience, Eric has often been called on to MC local balls and provide advice on dancing to enthusiasts all over Australia.

Eric has also lent his support, often through his role as president or secretary to many community organisations, including the Moe Girls’ Basketballers, Erica Ski Club, Moe Bush Nursing Hospital, Newborough East Primary School Council, Newborough Uniting Church and Newborough Branch of the RSL.

"So many members of our community have benefited from Eric’s generous support, fundraising, volunteering and dedication. He is to be congratulated on a lifetime’s dedication and commitment to our community," Cr Middlemiss said.

Ten other nominees for Senior Citizen of the Year were also congratulated by the mayor, presented with certificates recognising their achievements and thanked for their contribution to Latrobe City.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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