Lions Club news: Meet Margaret Bester

Margaret Bester.

THE New Norfolk Lions Club has long been a family affair for Margaret Bester. Her Dad, Sam Wilton, is a life member, and her son Troy is the current president.

“Dad and some of my uncles joined the club in in the 1980s," Margaret said. "I helped out for quite a number of years before I joined in 2003. I used to work with Dad, often in the Chocolate Wheel caravan. After we purchased the building that is now our club, I helped with the renovations. I remember spending a lot of time sanding the wooden doors!”

Before 2000, women couldn’t join the club, although they had always been an essential part of the club through the Lions Ladies Auxiliary. Helping on fundraisers and working bees, "Lions Ladies" had their own projects and fundraisers.

“Lions Ladies used to go out once a month to have a meal and a social outing," Margaret said. They joined the roster for Meals on Wheels, held afternoon teas for residents of Corumbene and for many years held an annual party for children in the Royal Derwent Hospital.”

Born and raised in New Norfolk, Margaret completed her schooling at St Brigid’s. “In my day, you could finish high school at St Brigid’s – it went right through,” she said. She worked at dry cleaning businesses in New Norfolk and then Glenorchy for five years.

Margaret Bester presenting a new satellite phone to the local
State Emergency Service unit earlier this year.

During this time Margaret married and started her family of two sons and a daughter. The family spent a brief time in Queensland, where Margaret’s youngest son, Troy, was born before returning to New Norfolk.

Since becoming a member of New Norfolk Lions Club, Margaret has been a tireless worker, organising and contributing to fundraisers including all day morning teas, high teas, sausage sizzles, Seniors Week activities and Carols in the Park. She has been a member of the board of directors for 13 years and next year will once again take on the role of club secretary.

Lions is a big part of Margaret’s life which she clearly enjoys, “It’s getting out and being with other people – especially the Chocolate Wheel – the fun of it all! A highlight for me was when I was asked to organise the District Changeover dinner in New Norfolk in 2010. It was a challenge and an honour.”

Margaret hopes that the club will grow and continue its good work, to be there for anyone who might need help.”

If you would like to know more about the Lions Club of New Norfolk contact membership officers Greg Hudson on 6261 1329 or Troy Bester on 0401 064 172. Lions Australia. We serve (more than sausages).