Stonnington mayor Melina Sehr (right) presents Lorraine with her award
Lorraine Sage’s lifetime of giving to others was recently recognised when the life-long UCA member was presented with the City of Stonnington Citizen of the Year Award for community service.
A member of St Andrew’s Uniting Church in Gardiner, Lorraine’s association with the church began at birth. As a teenager she joined the youth group of the Methodist Church in Leongatha, and went on to become a candidate for the Order of St Stephen. For two years she worked at the Malmaluan training centre in Rabaul, New Guinea as secretary to Rev John Mavor, principal of the training centre.
On returning to Australia, Lorraine worked for Rev Ron Lawton, director of the Presbyterian Church Christian education department, and at the time of Union moved to the synod offices in Melbourne where she worked for the next 29 years.
Since retiring in 2006, Lorraine has actively supported a number of church activities in a voluntary capacity, particularly the synod archives.
St Andrews UC newsletter described Lorraine as a tireless worker for the church and the wider community.
“Whatever the need, Lorraine has assisted willingly and has helped with hospitality, catering, chauffeuring and general administrative tasks,” the newsletter states.
“Lorraine has also dedicated her time and effort to the community…to Stonnington Girl Guides, Malvern Historical Society (as president) and Malvern emergency food program.”
Like many who give up their time for others, Lorraine is modest about her achievements.
“Anything that I have been able to do for the community has always been a pleasure and a privilege,” Lorraine said.
“I have always received much more than I have ever given to the community. I am humbled, honoured and privileged to receive the award and I will endeavour to continue assisting in the community wherever I can, whilst I am able and still have my health.”
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