mmg.com.au

Cobram Victory Football Club has honoured its first five life members at the club’s annual general meeting.

Cobram player Michael Startari said Nick Mete, Dom Diramacca, Joe Grillo, Belinda Franco and Tony Startari were awarded life membership in recognition of their ‘‘outstanding work and commitment to the club’’.

‘‘Tony Startari has been the driving force behind Cobram Victory since its beginnings in 1998 and, with the exception of a two-year hiatus, he has held the position of club president since its inception — when the club was known as Murray Border Cobram United,’’ Michael said.

‘‘Together, with a dedicated team, he has seen the club grow in all areas and gain state-wide recognition.’’

Mete is also a founding member who has shown dedication to Cobram Victory.

‘‘Throughout the years Nick has undertaken many roles at the club, particularly in the area of coaching, which has seen him successfully coach all age groups,’’ Michael said.

Diramacca joined the committee 2001 and is ‘‘a true stalwart’’ of the club.

‘‘Dom has taken on numerous roles over the years, including vice-president, but his work behind the scenes is legendary and he definitely keeps the club ticking,’’ Michael said.

Grillo also joined the committee in 2001 and has taken on numerous roles, including vice-president and league delegate.

‘‘Joe’s work around the club has been instrumental in ensuring it is where it is today.’’

Franco joined the committee in 2002 as club secretary and has remained dedicated for the past 10 years and ‘‘works tirelessly for the club and its members’’.

Michael said Cobram Victory would not be in the position it was today if not for the hard work from these five members.

‘‘They are all very worthy recipients of life membership and we congratulate them and look forward to their continued involvement for many years to come,’’ he said.

●Cobram Victory will host a Christmas party at the club rooms from 5pm on Saturday, December 15. There will be a special appearance from Santa, a jumping castle and a mechanical bull.

●The club will also host a News Year’s Eve party at the club rooms with live music and entertainment.

Everyone is welcome. For more information, phone Belinda Franco on 0400409472.

— Belinda Franco