The Yarrawonga Lions Club celebrated its 59th Changeover with the company of 50 Lions members, partners and guests at Club Mulwala on July 6.
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It was the changing of the guard with Lion Jock McDonald handing over the power to Lion Don McPhee. The new board was also installed by Past District Governor Omeni Ndlovu.
Outgoing President Jock McDonald spoke on how easy his year had been having a secretary like Deb, a treasurer like Nora and a club full of willing members.
He touched on projects that just seem to continue without any effort from him.
“The annual wool show with Andrew Toms, Cakes with Denis Griffiths and Mints with Russell Cook. The generosity of Faye and Rob in the donation of straw with sales going to our club, all amazing,” he said.
“The continued Junior Public Speaking project being organised by Dianne Richardson and John Weinert which will once again take place this month.
“With new projects such as the construction of a covered seating shelter at Lansell Close – John Weinert. Diane Richardson is in the process of applying for new recycled plastic seating at Chainman’s Island.”
Jock also commented that he could not have imagined how many bags of onions KHub Co-ordinator Laurie must have peeled during the year.
Jock however expressed the enjoyment of joining with other groups and especially the annual Rod Run where the club partners with the Rotary Club to cater for the masses.
“Our club has managed to work within our community catering at different events which has enabled us to donated back to the Community and Lions Project to the sum of just under $31,000, a fantastic effort to everyone involved.”
Incoming President Don McPhee spoke on his ambitions for the club going forward.
“My major focus will be on growing membership’ as the demographic of our membership says that we are getting older and to carry on with the current catering activity we do need new members to spread the load,” Don said.
“I feel there is a change in community response to volunteering and hopefully people will be willing again to become involved in community clubs.
“We just need to continue to ask!”
Don reflected on the loss of one of the club’s loved members John Ellis and the work John had done within the club and the community.
“Rest in Peace Jellybean,” Don fondly remarked.
One of President Don’s first tasks was to present Jan Parker from the Yarrawonga and District Cemetery Trust a cheque in the sum of $2,000 for the construction and erection of gates at the Yarrawonga Cemetery. A project that is already under construction.
Two new members were also inducted into the club by PDG Omeni – Jo-Anne Talbot was sponsored by Debbie Van Corler and Judi Best was sponsored by Dianne Richardson. They were welcomed by all members, and the club looks forward to working together.
If you are interested or would like more information about Lions, feel free to talk to any of the members. The club is at KHub every Saturday morning or visit their Facebook page.