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Torquay Lions help students trek Kokoda

February 20, 2019 BY

Torquay Lions president Patricia Blane (left) and Bowls Day Organiser Lion Trevor Secombe, present a cheque for $6767 to Surf Coast Secondary College teacher Peter Cummings, a coordinator of the Kokoda Trek.

TORQUAY Lions Club presented Surf Coast Secondary College with $6,767 to assist students taking part in the College’s Emerging Leadership Program. The students are fundraising to help alleviate costs of the excursion.

As part of the program, senior students will walk the Kokoda Track in New Guinea testing their teamwork, leadership and endurance while learning more about Australia’s World War Two battles in the jungles of Papua and New Guinea.

The money was raised at the Lions Club Charity Bowls Day held last month (Jan).

Major sponsor for the Bowls Day was Champion Blinds, a well-known local business which has supported the Day for the past two years.

According to Assistant Principal, Kathryn O’Neill, the donation from Torquay Lions was a wonderful contribution to the Emerging Leadership program, including the Kokoda Trek.

“The trek will be made by 17 students and two teachers, both of whom have previously traversed the famous track in Papua New Guinea,” Ms O’Neill said.

“While in the tropics, the students will mingle with youngsters at local schools and help them with their work.

“As well, they will visit local villages and markets to become more aware of the culture, customs and lifestyle of peoples other than themselves.”

Lions President Patricia Blane said the Torquay Lions always had a priority of helping youth.

“Youth are precious to our club and we try to help develop good citizens through programs such as this one, Youth of the Year competitions, and providing scholarships to younger students to help them advance their education.”

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