History making milestone for Lions

First regional SA club celebrates 60th anniversary

The first regionally based Lions Club in South Australia celebrated in style at the weekend when the Lions Club of Mount Gambier marked its 60th anniversary.

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC headlined the guest list at the celebration dinner at the Mount Gambier Community RSL on Saturday night, which also included the sole surviving charter member Eric Roughana AM and 1972 Miss Personality Julie-Anne Whitehead.

Civic leaders, MPs and Lions Club members made up the 130-strong crowd that not only celebrated the six decade milestone but also individual milestones for some long standing members and the handing out of donations to three community groups.

Mr Roughana, who chaired the committee that organised the anniversary celebrations, was presented with a 60-year service chevron and distinguished service award, while Australian Lions Foundation medals recognising 50 years’ service were presented to Allan Dowdell OAM and Robin Conboy OAM.

An updated 28-page booklet detailing the club’s history and activities was also released on the night.

The three community organisations that received grants totalling more than $13,500, included Riding for the Disabled, which will use its $4200 grant to purchase a machine to level the composite sand and fibre surface at its indoor arena on Sunnybrae Road, while Boandik Lodge will use $4700 to purchase two sleeper chairs for use as night beds for family members.

“…all of this is only a small snapshot of significant work that your club has undertaken over many decades to make Mount Gambier and our nation a better place…” Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC

The Mount Gambier Hospital will use its $4700 allocation to purchase two mobile shower commodes. Riding for the Disabled’s Natalie Zwar said they were grateful for what is now a 22 year association with Lions – a relationship fostered initially by Des Lattin.

“Ever since then there has been a multitude of projects, volunteer work, money and other support and we are extremely grateful,” Ms Zwar said. “Because of that, we have the best RDA centre in Australia.”

Boandik representative Sandra Parsons also thanked the Lions for their long standing support. The South Australian Governor could not have been more impressed with the volunteer workforce in the region, particularly the Lions Club of Mount Gambier.

“One of the many joys of my role as Governor is learning about the service that goes on every single day across South Australia,” Her Excellency said.

“On my visit to the South East in December 2021 I observed a very active volunteer community, particularly in Mount Gambier. “The regularity with which I see recipients in the Order of Australia with Mount Gambier as their address is remarkable.

“Tonight I think we are joined by at least six members of the Lions Club of Mount Gambier who have been recognised in the Order of Australia.

“ That fact speaks to the strength of your community, your volunteer culture and importantly your Lions Club.

“For 60 years you have enhanced the vitality of your community through projects such as the restoration of Pioneer Park and Engelbrecht Cave, and the construction of lookouts including the Blue Lake Lookout.

“Through programs such as the Youth of the Year and Lions Mad Minute you provide Mount Gambier’s young people with opportunities to build confidence and share ideas.

“In times of disaster – fire, flood or pandemic – your club continues to bring new ideas and enthusiasm to recovery efforts, whether it be through funds or materials.

“All of this is only a small snapshot of significant work that your club has undertaken over many decades to make Mount Gambier and our nation a better place.

“Through your pre-loved prescription glasses drive you’ve helped give the gift of vision to thousands of people in developing countries.”

The Governor’s husband Rod Bunten and daughter Sophie also attended the event. Mayor Lynette Martin said, the Lions Club of Mount Gambier had ‘enriched the social fabric of our city’.

“Our city is richer for your selfless service,” Mayor Martin said.

PHOTOS:

1. Ross Parkinson OAM, Governor Frances Adamson AC, present Eric Roughana AM with his 60 years of service honour.
2. Ross Parkinson OAM, Governor Frances Adamson AC present Robin Conboy OAM with his 50 years of service award with wife Marie Conboy
3. Ross Parkinson OAM, Governor Frances Adamson AC, Barbara Dowdell & 50 year service award recipient Allan Dowdell OAM
4. RDA Limestone Coast representative Natalie Zwar receiving a grant from Lions Club of Mount Gambier president Steve Bell
5. Boandik representative Sandra Parsons receiving a grant from Lions Club of Mount Gambier president Steve Bell
6. Karen Hales, from Mount Gambier & District Health Service, receiving a grant from Lions Club of Mount Gambier president Steve Bell