At Athletic Victoria’s annual officials lunch, two Essendon officials received top honours.

Doreen Giannini was named as the Yellow Region official of the year and also received a 35 year service award.

Arthur Whitchell received a 60 year award, so rare that there was no appropriate medal and no one could recall any that had served that long.

Well done, Arthur and Doreen.

A note to all members: All clubs, ours included always struggle to get enough officials and helpers on race days. Hopefully the example of these two super officials can inspire others from our club.