Torquay Lions Club announces new president

Outgoing Torquay Lions Club president Colin Bellis (right) receives his yearbook from incoming president and former vice president Brian Keane (left). Photos: SUPPLIED

TORQUAY Lions Club has announced a new president at its annual Changeover Dinner.

Brian Keane was named president of the Torquay Lions Club for 2023-24 last week, capping off a successful year for the club raising more than $90,000 in the past 12 months.

The incoming president said he hopes to make a difference in the community.

“We will do this by strengthening Lions and our club locally, through developing new models for growth by looking for new service opportunities,” Mr Keane said.

“We will reach out for new members of a younger generation and building partnerships with businesses and other not for profit organisations.

“The club will align goals, governance, and operational support by ensuring we continue to have strong financial management, concise safety protocols, robust maintenance programs and a culture of looking after each other.

“I am looking forward to a year full of activity, interest and fun. I know that I will have the support of our members, friends of Lions and our partners.”

Lion John Bell (left) was awarded the Lion of the Year Award.

Mr Bell was named Lion of the Year at the dinner, while Gail Price was awarded the Community Service Award.

Mr Keane takes the reins from outgoing president Colin Bellis, who praised the efforts of his fellow Lions over the past 12 months.

“During 2022–2023, Torquay Lions have done a wonderful job in raising a memorable $96,616 to many local, national and international causes,” Mr Bellis said.

“Monies distributed this year have helped a considerable number of groups or individuals achieve a better way of life for themselves or others.

“Some of our larger donations went to supporting organisations determined to make the world a better place.”

Gail Price (left) received the Community Service Award.

Club member Peter McMahon co-ordinated Torquay Lions’ largest contribution in 2022-23 through the annual Good Friday Appeal, raising $41,848 for the Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital.

A total of $13,177 was donated to Lions charities, and $10,000 was also donated to Foundation 61’s new House of Hope, the organisation’s new women-only residential rehab.

Torquay Lions also donated $12,500 to Art of the Minds late last month.

Mr Bellis took over from predecessor Neil Roche in June of 2022.