Lindenow Football Netball Club’s season culminated recently with a well-attended evening at the Bairnsdale RSL Club.
The evening was full of highlights, none more special than the life membership presentation to husband and wife, Chris and Lou Blandford.
Club life member, Turk Carroll gave an outstanding speech on the Blandfords’ contribution over many years, explaining that no task is ever too big for them and that they are an integral part of the Cats family.
The couple’s children, Edward and Claudia, were part of the ceremony and were delighted to see their hard-working parents honoured.
The club’s under 15 netball side, who were premiers in the East Gippsland Football Netball League in 2024, under the tutelage of Yvonne Porter, were lauded for their efforts.
Claudia Blandford was awarded the club best and fairest for the under 15s to go with her best-on-court in the grand final, league best and fairest and premiership success.
Club legend Justin Gould was presented with a record sixth Tancredi Medal, the Lindenow senior football best and fairest award, finishing narrowly ahead of coach, Brett Waddell, who impressed many with his work on and off the ground in his first season off the club.
Another first year player, Clare Brown, was the winner of the best and fairest in “A” grade netball. Brown’s commitment to the club was immense, seeing her commute each week back from university in Melbourne to play.
Molly Cunningham (“B” grade), Michelle Eldridge (“C” grade) and Kesia Harrison (“D” grade) were all recipients of best and fairest awards.
Bronson Ritchie took out the reserves best and fairest, while son, Kaian, took out the thirds award. It’s the club’s belief this is the first time this has happened in its long and successful history.
The club’s thirds had good success and finished runners-up in the grand final, retiring coach Richard Harrison praised for his efforts.
Peter Harrison took out the Ray Hendricks trophy for the best young player at the club.
The club honoured many volunteers throughout the evening, with the major presentation going to Amanda Stewart, who was awarded the club person of the year.
