THE past year has been a roaring success for the Lions Club of Cohuna, as the service group prepares to host the District 201V6 Convention in 2018.
The service club celebrated its unwavering commitment to the local community at its changeover dinner on Thursday.
More than 50 club officials, community leaders and members of neighbouring clubs witnessed Allan Walkington return as president in 2016/17 for a third successive term, a feat not achieved in the club’s 54-year history.
Jeanette Kline was installed as secretary and Anthony Troy as treasurer by Past District Governor, Peter Niall.
Mr Walkington said he was inspired by new ideas from younger members, including the Blue September family fun run, which raised money for men’s health.
“The next 12 months is going to be full of fun and exciting opportunities, especially as we celebrate the centenary of Lions with our own lasting project in town,” he said.
“What I have personally enjoyed is visiting neighbouring clubs, even those outside of our zone such as East Loddon, and sharing in fellowship and what we stand for.”
During the past year the club has raised funds at a barbecue at an Echuca hardware store, cooked the annual Australia Day breakfast, hosted junior public speaking and youth of the year competitions, helped organise the Cohuna Bridge to Bridge, catered at the Boer goat show and attended the multi-district convention in Echuca, where Leo, Hanna Walkington represented Victoria in the Leo of the Year competition.
The club has also benefited financially through the delivery of firewood to residents in the district.
Schools, groups and foundations have benefited from close to $18,000 in donations.
Donations included $10000 to the V6 Foundation, $1000 to the Murray to Moyne cycling team and $1,100 to the Lions Prostate Cancer Research Foundation and Blue September Foundation
Special project donations included $2000 to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, $8000 to the Cohuna District Hospital from the Bridge to Bridge and $1000 to Cohuna Consolidated School for the purchase of iPads.
Three students from Cohuna’s three schools received $250 each for scholarships.
Long-serving member, Bill Bruns was awarded the prestigious President’s Appreciation Award for his dedication to the treasury role and co-ordination at the wood yard.
Past District Governor, Alan Millar urged the club to reflect on its history and publicise what it has achieved in the lead up to the 100th anniversary of Lions International next June.
“A survey in the United States showed that the Lions logo was the sixth most recognised logo behind the usual suspects such as McDonald’s and Coca-Cola,” he said.
“Such is the respect and recognition for the movement, Lions International has a seat on the United Nations.”
