Our December Xmas Member Event was held at Claribeaux, at Curlewis Golf Club.
A great turn out with members old and new. The annual Christmas Gift Appeal was a great success, and something the PBDA have been running proudly for many years.
It was also an honour to hand out two special awards that evening.
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
Lance Wiffen, founder of Sea Bounty Mussels and more recently, Portarlington Mussel Tours, took home the Business of the Year Award, in recognition for his innovation and contribution to the Community of Portarlington. Sea Bounty Mussels, started by Lance Wiffen over 30 years ago, is a multi-generational family business, rooted in the rich history of Portarlington.
Today, their operations, spreading from the workboats to the processing, distribution and marketing, support close to 40 employees.
Portarlington Mussel Tours has now been operating and hosting guests for 2.5 years, offering unique experiences that have captured international attention and drawn visitors from all over the world. Their commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and engagement have set them up for great success.
Congrats to the Wiffen family.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARD 2025
Richard Underwood AM has spent more than 30 years giving back to Portarlington and the wider community — volunteering across countless clubs, committees and organisations, always with a can-do attitude, calm leadership and a willingness to go the extra mile.
From President to Secretary, coach to umpire, safety officer and beyond, Richard’s contribution is unmatched. His service has been recognised with numerous awards, multiple Life Memberships (a rare achievement in our region), and even the honour of becoming a Member of the Order of Australia.
It was a privilege to award Richard Underwood AM.
Thank you, Richard, for your leadership, generosity and decades of dedication.
A special thank you to Trung Truong from Bellarine Photography Studio and Fat Fox Art Gallery for capturing the night. You can view the photo gallery below.
