The Horsham City Lions Club took on gate duty for the Horsham Saints several years ago, and have since provided a rotating cast of happy faces to greet patrons as they arrive at the football and netball.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Lions club president Allan Henderson said it had provided mutual benefit for the Lions club and the Horsham Saints.
"I think they were having a bit of difficulty getting volunteers to do it every week, so they asked us and we were happy to do it," Henderson said.
"I think they're very happy that they did as well - the gate takings went up considerably after they got us onto it.
"The gates generally take in a few thousand a week, so it's no small amount to be taking care of."
Members Phil Sheriff and Jim Quick said they also get a kick out of greeting patrons and having a chat with people they know from across the nine Wimmera league clubs.
"It's good fun," Quick said. "I'm from Brim, lived there for 70 years. So when I'm at the gate and a team from up north comes down, it gives me someone to talk to."
"That's the highlight," said Sheriff. "That's definitely the best part."
Although it can have its highlights, John Eldridge said the mid-season gate-work in the midst of winter also has its downsides.
"The last couple of gates in the pouring rain and the freezing cold wasn't much fun," Eldridge said.
"Trying to pick up notes and money with your frozen hands can be a bit of a challenge.
"But on a good day, you can see the football and see a good crowd coming in and coming out.
"The club is good as well - they bring down some coffee and a bunch of sandwiches for us, so it isn't all bad."
Eldridge, Henderson, Quick and Sheriff have a combined tenure at the Lions club of more than 160 years.
Richard Crabtree
richard.crabtree@austcommunitymedia.com.au
richard.crabtree@austcommunitymedia.com.au
