President of the Lions Club, Colin Hardwick, said it was great to be able to help so many people in the community.

“From our annual duck race we always give money back to the community and this year our charities are the Hastings Education Fund, Marine Rescue and the Hope Shop,” Mr Hardwick said.

“Our major beneficiary this year was the Hope Shop to support the excellent work they do with our homeless community, but we also think the Hastings Education Fund is fantastic for the work they do with our youth.

“Marine Rescue are also a great help to us and to everyone on the water.”

Roger Munro from the Hope Shop said they were thankful to be recipients. 

“We just want to say thank you to the Lion’s Club for donating money to us so that we can continue to help the community,” Mr Munro said.

Similarly, Hastings Education Fund chair Jim O’Brien said the money they received will go towards helping students ease their education costs.

“The money that we have been given will go directly to helping students in their first year of university or who go straight into paid work cover their expenses,” Mr O’Brien said.

“This year we are assisting 36 local school leavers and with this money we can help an extra student."

Port Macquarie Marine Rescue unit commander Greg Davies also said the money they were gifted will go to help saving lives on the water.

“Our money will go towards our efforts to constantly upgrade and keep our boats and equipment the best and safest they can be, so we are ready to respond when people get into trouble,” Mr Davies said.