“Dutchy”, aka Kevin Hunt, was a recent recipient of a mobility scooter, thanks to the Lodge.

“We thought we’d get him out of his room, but now you can’t find him; he’s everywhere,” Lodge  Knight-chairman Stan Wilson said at Friday’s get-together at the Buffs Club.

Mr Hunt, 78, was not lost for words, either. 

“This pink machine is a little beauty. These guys don’t see me for dust,” he said.

The scooter was bought from the McGrath Foundation for $3178.

Philanthropy is a key plank of the Lodge mission statement.

“On average, the Lodge presents about $25,000 a year to local organisations,” Mr Wilson said. 

“They include, among others, the Flying Doctor, Meals on Wheels and Laura Johnson Home. Of course, most popular is the Christmas goodies for the children’s ward at the Mount Isa Hospital.

“All funds are raised through various raffles at the Lodge and at the Buffs Club on Wednesday nights; Lodge Brother Denis Dyer cracks a mean whip at fund-raising.”

Mr Wilson has issued an appeal for new members.

“New and fresh faces are always welcome,” he said.

To join, write to Lodge secretary George Dau,  PO Box 2046, Mount Isa, 4825.