More than 50 members and guests of the Lions Club of Blue Lake City Lioness recently enjoyed their inaugural changeover dinner at the Blue Lake Bar and Bistro.
Club president Beryl Mahoney welcomed guests and members, especially her sister who hails from the South of New Zealand, while Wynne Turner was emcee for the evening.
Mount Gambier Probus Club president of and Rotary Club of Mount Gambier past president Bill Hudd proposed a toast to Lions International which was responded to by treasurer Gayle Green.
Mrs Mahoney gave an overview of the 15 months of activities since the club was chartered in March 2021.
Zone president Trevor Buckell presented Years of Service Charter Chevrons from Lions International to Beth Walters and Lyn Fulton 10 years; Thea Richards 15 years; Pat Bowden, Gayle Green and Janet Bellinger 20 years and Beryl Mahoney and Wynne Turner for 35 years of service.
Mrs Mahoney presented flowers to Pat Bowden to recognise 23 years, Jan Shelton eight years and Wil Cousins five years, for service to the club.
Rita Johnston, Rosemary Carter and Meredith Dent received South Australian Certificate of Appreciation Awards while secretary Jan Shelton and treasurer Gayle Green also received awards.
The President’s Award was given to Pat Bowden who has been a member of the Lions family for 23 years, serving as a director and vice president.
Fundraising director Wil Cousins was presented with a Premier’s Certificate for recognition of outstanding volunteer service as well as the ‘Lion of the Year Award’ presented by Mrs Mahoney and recognised by fellow members of the Lions Club of Blue Lake City Lioness.
Lions Club of Mount Gambier past president Trevor Fulton inducted president elect Janet Bellinger and her board, past president Beryl Mahoney, secretary Lyn Fulton, treasurer Gayle Green and director and minute secretary Rosemary Carter.
Apologies were received from directors Sue Jacobs and Sue Parkinson.
Ms Bellinger outlined her ideas for the next year and presented past president Beryl with a thank you gift.
