Give our kids a chance - Lions Australia

Registered by Australia Post Publication No. pp255003/01624 

AUSTRALIA PAPUA NEW GUINEA EDITION $1 

JUNE - JULY 2011 

‘Alice’ 

Lions’ outback 

triumph 

YOUTH CRUSADER’S PLEA 

TO LIONS... 

Give our kids 

a chance

‘We serve’ 

“To create and foster a spirit of understanding 

among all people for humanitarian needs by 

providing voluntary services through 

community involvement and international 

cooperation” 

Lion – Australia and PNG 

Lion - Australia and Papua New Guinea edition is 

published bi-monthly for the Multiple District 201 

Council of Lions Clubs International and circulated to 

all members. 

Published by MD201 Council of Governors and printed by 

PMP Print, 37-49 Browns Road, Clayton Victoria 3168. 

An official publication of Lions Clubs International, the Lion 

magazine is published by authority of Board of Directors in 

21 languages: English, Spanish, Japanese, French, 

Swedish, Italian, German, Finnish, Korean, Portuguese, 

Dutch, Danish, Chinese, Norwegian, Icelandic, Turkish, 

Greek, Hindi, Polish, Indonesian and Thai. 

Editor: Tony Fawcett, Fawcett Media 

20 Millett Road Gisborne South VIC 3437 

Phone: (03) 9744 1368 

Email: tony.fawcett@bigpond.com 

Advertising Enquiries: Lions National Office 

31-33 Denison St, Newcastle West, NSW 

Phone: (02) 4940-8033 

Lions Australia website: www.lionsclubs.org.au 

Deadlines: 1st day of month before cover date. 

MD201 Council of Governors: Ray Marks C1, Graham 

Smithers C2, Peter Clarke N1, Warren Woods N2, Cliff 

Coleman JP N3, Richard Leonard N4, John Harrison N5, 

Lesley Lyons Q1, Patrick D Lynch Q2, Beverley Bates Q3, 

Neville Luckel Q4, Ken Gatehouse T1, Graeme Lukey V1-4, 

Max Oberlander V2, Shirley Higman V3, Anthony Stockdale 

V5, John Beale V6, Bill Laundy W1, Terry Gray W2. 

Distribution of Magazine: Clubs and Members 

Additions to distribution list, deletions, changes of address 

and of club will be made only when advised through the 

Club Membership and Activities report. Non-Lions, libraries 

and other organisations who wish to advise changes should 

contact Lions National Office, Locked Bag 2000 

NEWCASTLE NSW 2300, Tel: 02 4940 8033 email: 

admin@lions.org.au 

USA Executive Director – Peter Lynch 

Managing Editor - Dane La Joye, Lions Clubs International 

300 W 22nd Street, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523-8842 USA 

Executive Officers President Sid L. Scruggs III, North 

Carolina, USA; Immediate Past President Eberhard J. Wirfs, 

Kelkheim, Germany; First Vice President Dr. Wing-Kun Tam, 

Hong Kong, China, Second Vice President Wayne A. Madden, 

Auburn, Indiana, USA. 

Directors First year: Yamandu P. Acosta, Alabama, USA; 

Douglas X. Alexander, New York, USA; Dr. Gary A. Anderson, 

Michigan, USA; Narendra Bhandari, Pune, India; Janez 

Bohori , Kranj, Slovenia; James Cavallaro, Pennsylvania, 

USA; Ta-Lung Chiang, Tiachung,Taiwan; Per K. Christensen, 

Aalborg, Denmark; Edisson Karnopp, Santa Cruz Do Sul, 

Brazil; Sonja Pulley, Oregon, USA; Krishna Reddy, Bangalore, 

India; Robert G. Smith, California, USA; Eugene M. Spiess, 

South Carolina, USA; Eddy Widjanarko, Surabaya, Indonesia; 

Seiki Yamaura, Tokyo, Japan; Gudrun Yngvadottir, 

Gardabaer, Iceland. 

Second Year: Enrico Cesarotti, Rome, Italy; Luis Dominguez, 

Mijas Pueblo, Spain; Gary B. D’Orazio, Idaho, United States; 

Yasumasa Furo, Dazaifu, Japan; K.P.A. Haroon, Cochin, 

India; Carlos A. Ibañez, Panama City, Panama; Ronald S. 

Johnson, Maine, United States; Byeong-Deok Kim, Seoul, 

Republic of Korea; Horst P. Kirchgatterer, Wels/Thalheim, 

Austria; Hamed Olugbenga Babajide Lawal, Ikorodu, Nigeria; 

Daniel A. O’Reilly, Illinois, United States; Richard Sawyer, 

Arizona, United States; Anne K. Smarsh, Kansas, United 

States; Jerry Smith, Ohio, United States; Michael S. So, 

Makati, the Philippines; Haynes H. Townsend, Georgia, 

United States; Joseph Young, Ontario, Canada. 

Our cover 

Page 6 - Desert racers 

Page 9 - Launceston Convention 

Page 11 - Winning Leo Tom 

June - July 2011 Volume 94 No. 3 

Connections, influence, friendship, philanthropy 

COVER: Lions raise 

funds in many 

wonderful ways but the 

Lions of Alice Springs 

do it in one of the 

quirkiest ways 

imaginable, with an 

annual camel race. 

Read of their unique 

efforts on page 6. 

CONTENTS 

5 All in the Lions/Leo family 

6 Lions action 

8 International President’s report 

9 Devil of a time in Launceston 

11 The force for Aussie youth 

14 Council Chairman’s report 

16 Figtree in the swim 

18 2011-12 District Governors 

23 Operation Smile 

24 Around the nation 

26 Official announcements 

28 708 million reasons to thank LCIF 

31 Youth Exchange Greeters 

Contributions 

Contributions for the August - 

September 2011 issue should be 

submitted by July 1 to The Editor, 

Lion magazine, Fawcett Media, 

20 Millett Rd, Gisborne South, Victoria 

3437 or emailed to 

tony.fawcett@bigpond.com 

3

Meet LCIF’s biggest donor 

Philanthropist Aruna Oswal has given 

millions of dollars to make a difference 

With the largest, single 

personal donation in LCIF’s 40year 

history, India’s Aruna A 

Oswal and her family have the 

potential to save the sight of 

as many as 500,000 people. 

In April 2008, she pledged $3 

million to Campaign SightFirst II to 

help continue and expand the 

SightFirst program. This year, she 

gave more than $1 million toward 

that commitment. Additionally, she 

gave the largest individual 

donation for Haiti disaster relief 

and other disaster relief donations. 

A past district governor, Oswal is a 

member of the Lions Club of Juhu 

in Mumbai, India. 

Why is LCIF important? 

I have been a Lion for 21 years, 

and I have observed Lions 

activities globally, including 

disaster relief for the tsunami, 

Pakistan, and many more. I am 

very much convinced that the 

Foundation is carrying out 

excellent services. I look at LCIF as 

being associated with the Lions, 

and I am very impressed with the 

activities of LCIF. 

Why did you contribute to 

LCIF? 

I gave my donation to Campaign 

SightFirst II when I was serving as 

a coordinator for CSFII. I had the 

opportunity to work with Lions 

leaders and business corporations. 

I relayed to them the importance 

of donations, and they came 

forward immediately for this noble 

cause. I convinced them that LCIF 

is working only for humanity with 

no administrative costs. I was able 

to collect US$4.6 million with the 

help of my Lions leaders. 

How has your donation 

inspired others? 

The donation of $3 million came 

from my family, and this inspired 

all of India. I am very happy to 

currently serve as an LCIF 

coordinator so that I can help to 

contribute even more through my 

time and increasing awareness. 

How has your philanthropy 

inspired your family? 

My daughter and husband in 

Aruna Oswal addresses other 

donors at the LCIF donor reception 

at the International Convention. 

their own way have been inspired. 

They have adopted some poor 

rural villages – providing education 

and medical facilities, meeting 

needs of daily life, giving them 

food, providing a better life. In 

every area Lions are also doing the 

same work. My daughter is doing 

a lot of activities. Apart from Lions, 

I am also doing a lot of other 

activities in other communities. We 

are building shelter homes, homes 

for mothers and hospitals. We 

have been doing this for so many 

years. Many in my family are Lions 

also. 

What projects are you most 

passionate about? 

Women empowerment 

programs, help for widows, 

SightFirst activities, help for 

children. Aside from Lions, I am 

associated with other efforts. 

What projects would you like 

to see LCIF develop? 

I am most interested in 

programs to address hunger. 

Whatever programs the 

Foundation will take up in the 

future, I will look into them and I 

am sure we will be most interested 

to associate ourselves with them. 

All LCIF donations matter 

Learn of others who are 

making a difference – 

Page 28 

DEADLINE SEATTLE 

PID Barry set to 

make Lions history 

We’re nearly there! This will be the last article before the International 

Convention in Seattle where we believe we will see history being made – 

our first ever Australian Lion being announced as the new International 

2nd Vice President. 

Past International Director Barry and Lion Anne have maintained their busy 

schedule of promoting their campaign to the Lions of the world and the 

feedback has been very positive. 

Barry has received many endorsements from Multiple Districts throughout the 

world – in the form of verbal, email and written messages with some being very 

formal. I have copied (below) one such formal indication of 

endorsement from Multiple District 14 (Pennsylvania) just 

to give you an idea of the support Barry and Anne have 

received over the past months. They have received 

many similar declarations – and, in fact, Barry has 

received the unanimous endorsement of all multiple 

districts in North America. 

“WHEREAS, the Multiple District Fourteen, 

Pennsylvania State Council of Lions Clubs, 

members of the Pennsylvania Lions International 

Family and other interested Lions have assembled 

on the thirtieth day of October, two thousand and ten 

at the Holiday Inn-Harrisburg/Hershey, Pennsylvania, and 

WHEREAS, the said officers and members there assembled 

have reviewed the qualifications for the office of Second Vice President of 

the International Association of Lions Clubs, and 

WHEREAS the said officers and members have found one Barry J Palmer, 

of Berowra, NSW 2081, Australia to possess these inestimable qualifications 

and abilities necessary to lead the International Association of Lions Clubs as 

its Second Vice President, therefore, 

We the Officers and members of the Pennsylvania State Council of Lions 

Clubs, do unanimously endorse and support the candidacy of Barry J Palmer, 

for the position of Second Vice President of the International Association of 

Lions Clubs at the Associations convention in Seattle, Washington on July 4th 

through July 8th, 2011.” 

This declaration was signed over the Seal of Multiple District 14 by Marchia 

Shaull, MD14 State Administrator, and Steve Benedict, State Council Chairman. 

Among the many functions attended by Barry and Anne was the Multiple 

District Convention in Launceston where Barry addressed convention talking 

about the “WHAT IFS” in Lionism. This raised many “what ifs” in regard to this 

campaign. 

WHAT IF Barry is elected to serve as our International Leader in 2013? 

WHAT IF Multiple District 201 becomes the home of the International 

President of Lions Clubs International? 

WHAT IF every member of the Australian Lions Family can proudly say that 

we have one of own leading our Association forward? 

WHAT IF every Australian lion, Lioness, Leo and partner made a promise to 

reinvigorate their commitment to their clubs, their membership and their 

service and show the world how much we support Barry and Anne? 

What a great opportunity we have to reaffirm our enthusiasm to grow and 

sustain our membership to ensure we can continue to provide invaluable and 

immeasurable service to our community. 

Finally, Barry and Anne have asked me to include their thanks to you all for 

your support and encouragement over the past months. To those who are going 

to Seattle and who have volunteered as part of Barry’s Team, thank you for your 

offers of assistance. And to the members of the Campaign Committee, Barry 

extends his gratitude for the friendship and commitment to the success of the 

campaign. PDG Carlene King OAM 

Member, Campaign Committee

All in the Leo/Lions family 

It was a Leos/Lions family affair when “Toby” Crawford’s clan got 

together at the Launceston Convention last month. 

T1 Lion "Toby" (real name Dale) was there to collect a 

special Graham Pearce Award for his inspiring 

service to Leos – and being such avid 

Lions/Leos, the family just had to join in 

the celebration. 

You see, Toby is married to Lion Julie, 

whom he met at a Penguin Lions function. 

And Toby and Julie have four children. 

Louise, a Leo/Lion and now State 

Leo Coordinator for Tasmania 

is married to Leo/Lion Daniel 

Eiszele, T1 Leo Chairman. 

Then there’s other 

daughter Ebony, a Leo 

– and sons James 

and Thomas, also Leos. 

Completing the picture 

is Louise’s first child, baby 

William Daniel, definitely a 

Penguin Leo of the future. 

Toby, a past Leo and State 

Leo Coordinator for nine years, 

is now a DG elect. His Leo passion 

began when inducted as a Penguin 

Leo member back in 1977. 

“I’m honoured," said “Toby” after 

the presentation by Leo Chairman 

Martin Peebles. 

Most of us were caught up in last month’s Royal Wedding 

including, it seems, members of the Lions Club of Carrara on the 

Gold Coast. 

They shot off the following letter to the newlywed Royals: 

Dear Prince William and Catherine, 

- Our Gift in Celebration of your Marriage - 

Members of the Lions Club of Carrara wish to express their 

heartfelt congratulations to you both on your marriage and extend 

our best wishes for your future together. 

In acknowledgement of your expressed desire for people to 

contribute ‘gifts of charity’ to commemorate your special day, we 

will be dedicating our club’s preparation and distribution of roses 

and gift bags to a group of aged care mums and their special 

‘Meals on Wheels’ volunteer workers for Mother’s Day. 

Like you we are proud to serve the community and recognise 

that it only needs one small act of charity and kindness to make a 

difference to someone’s life. 

Our club thanks you both for the huge difference we know that 

you will make to so many people’s lives in your future roles. 

Yours faithfully 

Colin D Brown, 

President, Lions Club of Carrara 

Said Sue Brown, wife of President Colin: “We believe it (the letter) 

exemplifies the Lions principal ‘We Serve’.” 

June - July 2011 

THE GANG’S ALL HERE ... (from left): Louise 

Eiszele, Daniel Eiszele, Dale 'Toby" Crawford, 

James Crawford, wife Julie Crawford holding 

baby William Daniel Eiszele, 

James’ girlfriend Ashley French 

(a Leo), Ebony Crawford and 

Thomas Crawford. 

Aussie Lions swept up in wedding excitement 

5

LIONS ACTION 

Queens of the desert 

It is certainly one of Lions’ quirkiest fundraising events. It is the Camel Cup, Australia’s 

premier and original camel race held yearly at Blatherskite Park in Alice Springs. 

It receives high media attention nationally and internationally and attracts around 5000 local, 

national and oversees visitors. This year it is being held on Saturday, July 7. 

Organised by the Lions Alice Springs Camel Cup Committee and supported by other Alice 

Springs service clubs, it has been going for 40 years. 

The race is run purely by volunteers, and the camels are provided free of charge by local 

camel farms and tourist operators. All proceeds are distributed to local charities. 

It is a day of fun for spectators and a nightmare for riders and handlers – with 15 camels, 

some striding out well, others grounded, and some going backwards. 

The first Camel Race was run in 1970 in the dry Todd River bed as a bet between two mates, 

Noel Fullerton and Keith Mooney-Smith, and was an added attraction at the Alice Springs 

Centenary Year Celebrations. 

The race proved so popular and hilarious that plans were made by Lions clubs to hold it 

annually. The first permanent venue was Traeger Park, but low fences and a grass track were 

thought to be too dangerous. In 1975 it was held at a local speedway. 

Since 1979 it has been held on its own arena at Blatherskite Park, a section of the Central 

Australian Show Society grounds, with a commentary and judges’ tower being erected for 

telephone contact to the “pits” and centre arena to keep the crowd informed. 

The feature race is the XXXX Gold Lions Camel Cup, with the winning camel owner and rider 

being presented with the perpetual trophy. 

A novelty race is the Imparja Television Honeymoon Handicap in which the “grooms” race the 

camels half way round the arena. The camels then drop down and the appropriately dressed 

“brides” climb aboard and race to the finish line. 

For more information about the event and admission prices, visit the official Camel Cup event 

website (www.camelcup.com.au) or email camelcup2011@agentur.com.au. Accommodation, 

flight and touring package details: Territory Discoveries – www.territorydiscoveries.com. 

6 

Toby Hudson/Wikipedia 

A sound idea 

President Graham Macdonald with prep students, 

their teacher and Lion Maxene McHardy. 

Learning is now far easier for the deaf or 

hearing impaired at one school in the 

Victorian goldfields city of Bendigo, thanks to 

the local Lions club. 

Bendigo Lions recently supplied a “Front row 

to go” hearing sound system at St Kilians 

School. 

President Graham Macdonald presented a 

plaque to go with the system. 

The system is used by teacher and students. 

While all students benefit, the system has 

special benefits for children who are deaf or 

hearing impaired and for those who suffer from 

various attention deficit disorders. 

This is the second system provided by the 

club to schools in the area. 

Aiding aged 

Coordinator Eleanor with two satisfied clients. 

Q4’s Biggenden club might be small but for 

16 years it has sponsored and managed a 

community care service that looks after up to 

10 elderly clients in their own homes. 

Without this service, these elderly residents 

would have to leave their homes and the town 

where some have lived nearly all their lives. 

Lion Eleanor Liston is the coordinator, managing 

six carers and an admin assistant who works parttime. 

Carers help with chores such as cleaning, 

washing, shopping and transport to doctors and 

specialists. 

Lion

Shopping bonanza 

The Ulverstone Lions Club on the north-west 

coast of Tasmania knows a bit about 

merchandising. 

For six years it has been running a highly 

successful community shop that in the 2010 

calendar year alone generated $43,000 for local 

projects and Lions activities in Australia. 

Not far from the main business district, the 

shop has a volunteer staff of about 44, consisting 

of Lions, Lions Ladies and friends. 

Under the management of Chairman Rob 

Johnstone and Secretary/Treasurer Neil Rawson, 

it opens five days a week and gains its stock 

(light furnishings, books, ornaments, glasses, 

children’s toys and kitchen utensils) from visits to 

garage sales for unsold goods, plus donations 

from the general public. 

Past major contributions have included 

$11,000 to Lions Haiti Appeal, $6900 for 

playground equipment, $4000 for local circus 

organisation Slipstream, $3000 for a special bed 

Making it happen in Tungamah 

Simon and Vicki Crawford are young parents 

in Tungamah, Victoria, who in 2004 were 

presented with their second child, Montana, a 

little sister for Illa. 

Everything was wonderful until 

Montana was diagnosed with 

Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy, 

a truly awful illness that affects 

the nervous system. This disease 

will gradually destroy her 

nervous system and Montana will 

die, probably about age 10. 

In 2006, Montana’s little 

brother Cadel was born, named 

after Cadel Evans (dad Simon 

was a top class cyclist before his 

family situation forced him to 

retire). Incredibly, Cadel has the 

same disease. It has since been 

established that both parents 

carry a rare gene. 

Montana attends the Cobram 

Special School where I am a teacher. My Lions 

Club of Tungamah and District, with assistance 

from many other clubs in the district, has been 

raising funds to assist the Crawford family for 

some time. At their first attempt, Lions and the 

local community raised over $25,000 in a day, 


for Motor Neurone sufferers, $2500 for the 

Salvation Army for under-privileged people and 

$1500 for fire victims. 

With 45 members, Ulverstone is one of the 

biggest clubs in Tasmania and has twice hosted 

the T1 Convention (it is also committed to hosting 

an outstanding effort in a town of just 330. 

Looking ahead, Lions have set up a trust to use 

this money to provide for the children. 

Your foundation, the Australian Lions 

Gae and Elvio, Robyn and Les with Simon and Vicki and Illa, Cadel and Montana. 

Foundation, has also provided grants for lifters 

and change tables. This helps, but more help is 

needed. Inevitably the trust money is dwindling 

with the continuing need for wheelchairs, travel 

and medical expenses and more. 

Last year N5 PDG Elvio Munzone and Lion Gae 

the convention in 2012). 

It helps run a Christmas parade while 

providing a float and selling Christmas trees. An 

annual golf day is well supported and a great 

public relations exercise. 

– Neil Rawson, Publicity Officer 

visited V6 and spent time with my family. Elvio 

and I served as District Governors in the same 

year and had formed a lasting friendship. Over a 

glass of red we discussed the Crawfords’ 

difficulties, and in particular Cadel’s need 

for a new wheelchair costing almost 

$7,000. Elvio immediately acted. He called 

two other PDGs from our year – CC Phil 

Lawler from N2 and PDG Bob Moore from 

N4 – and asked them to help. PCC Phil 

promoted the idea through N2 clubs, and 

PDG Bob did likewise in N4 and Elvio in N5. 

Donations began to arrive, with Bondi and 

Lugarno clubs each donating $2000. 

Griffith donated $1000 and Manly and 

other clubs kicked in generously and, 

together with a sizeable donation from the 

V6 Foundation, the $7000 was raised. 

The Crawfords and Tungamah Lions are 

extremely grateful for the help given their 

family, particularly as it was largely driven 

by a total stranger to our town. Our sincere 

and heartfelt thanks go to PDG Elvio and every 

club that donated toward this worthy cause. 

Without a Lions club in our town, this would not 

have happened! 

– PDG Les Harrison, V6 

7

They only 

remember the 

winners 

By Sid L Scruggs lll, President, 

The International Association of 

Lions Clubs 

As I reflect on this Lions year I am 

reminded of the words of my high school 

track coach: “Son, it is not how you 

started, it is how you finished. They only 

remember the winners.” 

Our goal this year was to re-engage Lions 

in service to be a Beacon of Hope. 

As you look to complete your year as a 

Lion, I hope you will finish strong. 

My track coach had me train at a distance 

10 percent longer than the race so that I was 

still going strong as I crossed the finish line. 

With the global action campaign completed 

for this year we must continue to make sure 

our community service continues strong 

across this year’s finish line. The people we 

help will always remember us as the people 

that helped them be winners! 

There are almost 1.4 million of us, and if 

each Lion did one act of meaningful service 

each month, it would amount to 17 million 

acts of kindness in a year. 

If our service was one act a week, we 

would celebrate more than 73 million 

instances of Lions making a difference in the 

lives of others. 

As you look over your life’s 

accomplishments, I believe you will agree that 

the most memorable events are those times 

when you made a difference in someone’s life. 

I’ve read that what we make is a living, but 

what we give away is what makes a life. 

To meet the need of someone else is 

indeed being a Beacon of Hope. 

I thank you for your service and ask you to 

continue to serve with passion. 

8 

Quarter 

century of 

restoring 

sight 

Western Australia’s Lions Eye Bank celebrates 

25 years of the gift of sight. 

In 1925, when Helen Keller urged Lions to join 

her in a “crusade against darkness”, she planted a 

seed that has yielded a rich harvest worldwide. 

Forty-five years after her initial call, at their 1970 

conference in Albany, Lions clubs in Western 

Australia formed the Lions Save Sight Foundation 

(WA) Inc. to lead the development of world-class 

ophthalmic care. 

Over time, the Foundation achieved a number of 

milestones – including the launch of the Lions Chair 

in Ophthalmology at The University of Western 

Australia in 1975 and in 1983 the creation of the 

internationally-renowned Lions Eye Institute (LEI). 

The Foundation also worked with Lions clubs of 

Western Australia to screen for glaucoma 

throughout the state. 

And from the early 1970s, the Lions Save Sight 

Foundation (LSSF) recognised it had a vital role to 

play in generating community awareness about the 

importance of eye tissue donation. 

LSSF Chairman PCC Ambrose Depiazzi said the 

Foundation opened up community discussion about 

the often sensitive issue of tissue donation. “We 

knew that corneal transplantation was the only 

option for many people who were blind because 

their corneas were damaged or diseased. 

“We set about finding ways to raise public 

awareness about the benefits of corneal 

transplantation and, along with the Australian 

Kidney Foundation, developed a donor pledge card 

which allowed people to make an informed choice.” 

While the Western Australian Lions were 

committed to raising public awareness of the 

importance of donor pledges, it was not until 1986 

that a fully operational Eye Bank was established. 

This would not have been possible without the 

support of the LSSF and Lions clubs, which 

originally funded and assisted in the set-up costs of 

the Eye Bank in Western Australia. 

Since then the Lions Eye Bank of WA has 

evolved and in August 1999 it was approved as a 

licensed body by the Therapeutic Goods 

Administration. Changes continue and in April this 

year it began the transition to a different type of 

storage method for corneas. This new method 

increases the storage time of a viable cornea from 

Lions Eye Bank Director, Associate Professor Steve 

Wiffen ... donating eye tissue and corneas is to be 

encouraged. 

Lions Eye Bank’s celebration 

one week to four, which has enormous advantages 

in the use and scheduling of corneal transplants as 

well as enabling further expansion of the 

acceptable donor 

pool. 

It is expected 

this change will 

see an increase of 

available eye tissue donors and a decrease in 

waiting times for corneal transplants. 

On July 1, the Lions Eye Bank will celebrate its 

25th anniversary. Since its inception, more than 

3400 Western Australians have received corneal 

transplants, vastly improving their quality of life by 

improving or restoring their vision. 

Lions Eye Bank Director, Associate Professor 

Steve Wiffen, said there was a consistent 

requirement for corneas. “The number of Western 

Australians awaiting a corneal transplant has been 

increasing over the last few years.” 

He said many people did not realise they were 

more likely to be in a position to donate eye tissue 

than any other organ or tissue, due to broader age 

and medical acceptance criteria. 

Managing Director of the Lions Eye Institute, 

Professor David Mackey, said that as a not-forprofit 

organisation, LEI relied heavily on community 

support. “Lions clubs in Western Australia have 

been extraordinary and their leadership has allowed 

us to fund vital equipment, scholarships and 

research over many years. 

“Right from the beginning, the Lions Save-Sight 

Foundation set itself the objective of creating 

programs that educate, prevent and cure eye 

disease – as well as establishing a world-leading 

research centre. It is a great legacy to the people of 

Western Australia and the wider world.” 

Lion

Devil of a time in Launceston 

From the moment the Tasmanian Governor, 

the Honourable Peter Underwood AC, invited 

Lions to have a devil of a time (“though 

hopefully not to extinction”) at the 59th 

National Convention in Launceston, the mood 

was set. 

It was fun, fellowship and planning for possibly 

the most momentous phase in Australian Lions 

history. 

There was excitement about PID Barry Palmer’s 

much-hoped-for announcement as Australia’s first 

International 2nd Vice President at the 94th 

International Convention in Seattle (July 4 to 8) – 

and growing confidence over an injection of youth 

to complement “wise heads” in the organisation. 

Indicative of the youthful new make-up of Lions 

Australia was the announcement that last year’s 


59th National Convention rated a Tassie triumph 

total of 75 Leos clubs nation-wide is likely to soar 

to 100 or more by the end of this year. 

In line with the youth direction, keynote speaker 

Father Chris Riley emotionally invited Lions to 

become the voice and force for youth in Australia 

(see story page 11). 

Our new Council Chairman was announced for 

2011-2012 – N1’s Peter Clarke – and details of 

next year’s national convention in Perth were 

outlined. 

Most agreed the organisation of the Launceston 

Convention was a giant success, with regular 

attendances of 1000-plus daily, warm hospitality 

and plentiful catering. 

A highlight was the Saturday morning march led 

by the City of Launceston RSL Band through the 

streets of the city. On the Sunday morning a 

Victoria’s Lions Club of Mount Eliza has reached new 

heights. Its bannerette has been unfurled 6189 metres 

up on a mountain, Island Peak, in the Himalayas. 

Climber James Nash, a resident of Mount Eliza, agreed to 

take the banner with him after addressing club members. 

The 11-member team undertook the ambitious project as 

part of a campaign to raise $1 million for cancer research. 

dignified remembrance ceremony, in which District 

Governors and their partners placed flowers in 

vases on stage, also impressed. 

Sponsored by Invocare, a strong supporter of 

Lions and this convention, the simple ceremony 

provided a moving farewell to Lions who have left 

us in the past year. 

Impressive too were the venues – the Silverdome 

stadium, where the opening and flag ceremonies 

were held on the first day, and the historic Albert 

Hall (pictured above), location for much of the rest 

of the convention. 

One of Launceston’s most significant buildings, 

the Victorian hall was constructed in 1891 to house 

the Tasmanian Industrial Exhibition of 1891-92. 

MORE CONVENTION STORIES OVER PAGE 

Unfurling banner 6189 metres high in Himalayas 

Climbing Island Peak was the brainchild of Amanda 

Ghirardello, 25, in remission from stage 3 breast cancer. 

Amanda is raising money in the hope of ultimately curing 

cancer while showing other sufferers how they can 

experience “a fantastic, active life”. Her story is at 

http://www.mountainkingdoms.com/blog/remission-possibleeverest-base-camp-trekking-cancer-fundraiser/. 

9

Coffee break for new nation 

The simple act of grabbing a cup of 

coffee between breaks at last 

month’s Launceston Convention will 

help launch a new nation. 

Funds of $2,646.55 from the 

convention’s Gold Coin Coffee Stand will 

help build a primary school in the new 

country of South Sudan. 

South Sudan will officially gain 

independence on the 9th July and it will 

have to start from scratch. 

Land has already been purchased, 

plans are being drawn up and $20,000 

is needed to get stage 1 of the project 

underway. 

Education will be the key to achieving 

long-term peace, stability and 

development in South Sudan. 

The Launceston coffee stand was 

10 

LOOK AHEAD TO 

PERTH 

Before the Launceston Convention 

had finished, registrations were 

being invited for next year’s Perth 

Convention at the Burswood 

Convention Centre. It will be a 

landmark, celebrating 60 years of 

Lions in Australia and 50 years in 

W.A. – details: 

http://www.lionsclubs.org.au/perth 

2012convention/ 

hosted by Riverside Lions Club and 

staffed by Lions Ladies and local 

Sudanese. 

“Wouldn’t it be great if other clubs 

around Australia could run some projects 

to help raise the balance of the 

$20,000,” said Riverside Lion David 

Vautin. 

To learn more or to take up the 

challenge, ring David’s wife Coby, 

co-ordinator of Mercy Projects (Tas), on 

(0419 376660). 

“We believe in empowerment through 

education, which will lead to there being 

no need to send refugees to Australia 

and other places,” said Coby. 

“We encourage the use of local 

products and the employment of local 

people.” 

Outcomes from Notices of Motion - National Convention, Launceston 

Sudanese-born servers were on hand to dispense coffee at the stand 

hosted by Riverside Lions Club and Lions Ladies. Proceeds will go to help 

build a primary school in the new nation of South Sudan. 

Wikipedia/Nachoman.au 

Notice of Motion Outcome 

CNM1 CARRIED 

CNM2 CARRIED 

CNM3 LOST 

CNM4 CARRIED 

CNM5 CARRIED 

CNM6 AMENDED AND CARRIED 

“That Clause 86.1.2 of the Multiple District Constitution be amended by the deletion 

of all words following the words “other Motions” where appearing in the first line 

and the following words being inserted in lieu thereof – “will be made available in 

electronic format by the date specified in Clause 86.1 and Clause 86.1.1, in a 

suitable secure fashion as determined by the Executive Officer with a request for 

an acknowledgement in the manner specified by the Executive Officer. Clubs which 

have not acknowledged receipt of the documentation within 14 days of the 

specified date will receive the documentation by post.” 

CNM7 LOST 

CNM8 CARRIED 

NM9 CARRIED 

NM10 CARRIED 

NM11 CARRIED 

NM12 CARRIED 

GILLIAN’S JOY 

There were two people Youth of the Year 

winner Gillian Mahony just had to see 

straight after her Launceston triumph – 

her parents who had specially flown 

from Perth to support her. 

Minutes before she had told of her love for 

her parents. 

Melbourne-born and Perth-raised Gillian 

took off a closely fought contest from Nathan 

Barnden (N Districts), Brooke Snow (Q 

Districts), Max Rintoul (T District), Raynor 

Hicks (C Districts) and Stuart McKenzie (V 

Districts). Nathan Barnden won the public 

speaking prize. 

As part of her prize in the contest, now in 

its 14th year and sponsored by NAB, Gillian 

wins a trip to the UK or the chance to 

volunteer overseas in a youth-oriented 

project. Youth of the Year is the longestrunning 

community partnership with which 

NAB has been involved. 

Lion


BECOME THE FORCE FOR 

AUSSIE YOUTH 

Father Chris Riley’s emotional convention plea 

Father Chris Riley, founder and CEO of Youth 

Off The Streets, challenged Lions at the 

Launceston Convention to stand up for 

Aussie youth – especially those in dire 

circumstances. 

In a moving and confronting keynote address, 

Father Riley observed that Lions are in the perfect 

position to represent disadvantaged youth. 

“Please become the force for young people ... 

you guys have the power, you guys have the 

passion – and if you really commit to this I just 

think you might be 

able to change the 

lives of our young 

people,” he told 

the audience. 

As CEO of 

Youth Off The 

Streets, Father 

Riley oversees the 

operation of over 20 programs that employ 150 

people and involve more than 800 volunteers. 

Lions, he said, have the heart to tackle such a 

project. “Our kids are our greatest asset and 

someone needs to stand up for them ... we love 

our own kids but when it comes to youth as a 

group no-one really stands up to defend them.” 

In particular, he called on Lions to “get those 

young Lions leaders out there”, to show just how 

fantastic the youth of Australia can be. 

Father Riley chilled the audience with snapshots 

of just what many young people had to endure, of 

a seven-year-old girl who weighed just 9kg after 

being found dead on the NSW Central Coast (she 

was locked in a room with faeces and “her socks 

welded to her feet because they hadn’t been 

changed for so long”). Of a three-year-old boy 

being put into a suitcase and thrown into a duck 

pond, and of babies less than a year old being 

sexually assaulted. 

He told of visiting a NSW country centre where 

more than 40 girls under 14 had become pregnant 

to collect the Baby Bonus, and of a young boy 

being repeatly raped by his mother’s boyfriend. 

Father Riley, who was inspired in his crusade for 

youth after watching the 1931 movie Boys’ Town, 

highlighted the need to recognise that young 

people are not born bad but that horrific 

circumstances sometimes turn them that way. 

He 

“You guys have the power, you 

guys have the passion – and if 

you really commit to this I just 

think you might be able to change 

the lives of our young people” 

painted a 

grim picture 

of how 

widespread, 

the problem 

is. “We 

discovered 

that in 

juvenile detention centres in NSW, which had 

about 450 kids in them and are always full, 48 

percent of the population are Aboriginal. 

“They make up two percent of the youth 

population in NSW. Twelve percent have an 

intellectual disability. These are kids who should be 

in disability services, not in detention centres. 

“Thirty six percent of the girls and 25 percent of 

the boys are what we call State Wards, or out of 

home care. They are the most brutalised kids in 

this country. In NSW, up to 160 kids are killed in 

their families every year. And these kids are under 

the care usually of adults who receive notification 

after notification but don’t step in to do anything.” 

After Father Riley’s address, a cheque for 

$6000 (including $5000 from T1 and $1000 from 

the Multiple District) was handed over and by 

convention’s end a lot more was on the way. 

CONVENTION STANDOUTS 

▲ News of $75,000 being awarded by LCIF to the Lions Spinal Cord Fellowship for a high-tech 

microscope to boost research at St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne 

▲ The Ted Horwood Award for best story in the Lion magazine being awarded to Lion Dr Stephen 

Weinstein (Lions Club of Mudgeeraba) for his story “Operation Kiribati”, about a medical team’s fight 

to counter cervical cancer in the Pacific island nation. 

▲ The Syd Packham Award for best PR or publicity program going to V1-4’s Jill Qualtrough for her 

long-standing efforts in bringing Lions doings to the general public. 

TOP LEO TOM 

Launceston provided an emotional 

highlight for Leo of the Year winner Tom 

Porter, here being congratulated after his 

popular award. 

After delighting convention attendees with 

his announcement of his ambition of 

becoming the youngest district governor in 

Q2, Tom dedicated his win to his mother 

Megan who is suffering from cancer and to 

Queensland Leo Co-ordinator Toni Lanphier 

who had guided him through the contest. 

Other finalists included public speaking 

winner Kara Barker (Tasmania), Madeleine 

Gillespie (Western Australia), Paul Watts 

(NSW) and Amber Gray (Victoria). 

BELOW: Leo Chairman Marty Peebles with Dale 

“Toby” Crawford (left) and DG elect Peter Lamb 

(right), awarded Graham Pearce Leo Awards for 

their long service to the organisation. 

11

1 2 

3 

6 

4 

5 

7 

LAUNCESTON CANDIDS 

1. Macarthur & District Lion Andrew Duyvestyn gets 

cosy with a not-so-snappy Tassie Tiger. 

2. Tanya Nati of Dollar Sweets was happy to share the 

Lion Mints around. 

3. PID Barry Palmer was besieged by wellwishers 

after his keynote address and prior to heading to 

Seattle for the International Convention – and hopefully 

appointment as 2nd International Vice President. Barry 

has sold out of his Sydney real estate business to 

devote himself to obtaining the position. 

4. Leo of the Year finalists on stage during their 

judging. 

5. V3 PG Shirley Higman gets in the spirit with 

colleagues as the end of her term nears. 

6. The autumn sun was shining and the location was 

perfect for a coffee break during the opening day at 

Launceston’s Silverdome. 

7. It might not be Christmas but Carl Ladner of Top 

Taste Cakes and Tom Gould were intent on 

demonstrating that Lions Christmas Cakes can be 

enjoyed any time of the year.

8 

10 

12 

11 

8. It might have been chilly but spirits 

were high on the Saturday morning as 

Lions prepared to march through the 

streets of Launceston. 

9. Australian Lions Children’s Mobility 

Foundation members weren’t about to 

leave Launceston without everyone 

knowing what they are about. 

10. Even the long arm of the Launceston 

law appreciated a free pack of Lion Mints 

on a coolish morning. 

11. Youth of the Year finalists show their 

happiness at being involved in the Lions 

march through Launceston. 

12. StepAhead Australia President Dr 

George Owen offers DG elect Peter Lamb 

sustenance at a luncheon outlining his 

organisation’s life-saving involvement in 

regenerating spinal cords. Lions clubs of 

Australia raise more than $100,000 a year 

in support of StepAhead. 

13. Lions came from far and wide to 

share in the experience of a national 

convention. 

9 

13

14 

PATRICK the 

Lion Namers 

Patrick makes it easy to track 

down Lions and their wives 

(not to mention Lionesses 

and Leos!) 

We’ve been making approved 

badges for Lions Clubs International 

for over 20 years. 

In all the right shapes, sizes and 

colours. 

Talk to us about your requirements, 

and you’ll see how we’ve gained the 

lion’s share of the business. 

84-88 Leveson Street, North Melbourne, Vic, 3051 

Tel: (03) 9329 9200 Fax: (03) 9326 5010 

From Council Chairperson Bob 

At the time of 

writing Barbara 

and I have 

recently 

returned from a 

few days break 

over the Easter 

period following 

a very 

successful 

National Convention in Launceston. 

What a wonderful weekend it was from the 

opening ceremony where we were welcomed by His 

Excellency the Governor of Tasmania Peter 

Underwood AC and his Worship the Mayor of 

Launceston Albert Van Zetten to the final Cabaret 

on the Monday night. Convention Chairman Tony 

Roney was true to his promise and had the 

weatherman provide us with pleasant autumnal 

weather. 

Launceston is a beautiful city with lots to offer in 

the way of sightseeing and shopping for those 

conventioneers who had a few extra days to tour 

around. 

The Convention had many highlights, including a 

very emotional and thought provoking address on 

“Youth off the Streets” by keynote speaker Father 

Chris Riley and an address by PID Barry Palmer on 

his progress and, indeed, Lions Australia’s progress 

towards having an International President. There 

From Executive Officer Rob 

I, like many other 

Lions, have just 

returned from 

Launceston 

following a very 

successful National 

Convention. 

Judging by the 

many smiles, I was 

not alone in that 

assessment. 

We owe considerable thanks to PCC Tony Roney 

and his team of Lions who made the job of 

organising this Convention look easy. Thanks also 

to our Convention sponsors GM Holden and 

Invocare, and the many local businesses who 

supported the Convention. 

The Convention was preceded by a very busy 

were inspirational and exciting Youth of the Year 

and LEO of the Year presentations and three well 

presented and very well attended forums. I am also 

pleased to report yours truly managed to survive the 

business sessions relatively unscathed. My thanks to 

Sergeant at Arms PDG Bruce McLeod for the smooth 

running of business proceedings, the Convention 

Organising Committee for their great work and to 

the conventioneers for making the weekend such a 

memorable one for Barbara and myself. 

A couple of my last official engagements will see 

Barbara and I and Council Chairman Robin and Lois 

from New Zealand joining fellow Lions in MD307, 

Indonesia, for their Multiple District Convention – 

and of course accompanying our District Governors 

Elect at the International Convention in Seattle, 

where I will have some final duties to perform. We 

will also be part of PID Barry Palmer’s support team 

promoting his candidacy for 2nd International Vice 

President. 

This Lions year commenced with a flourish as 

we saw Sydney host the International Convention, 

an event which brought many accolades from 

visiting overseas and Australian Lions. Much of the 

praise was directed towards the volunteers for their 

knowledge and friendly manner. Your Council of 

Governors was formally inducted in Sydney and 

again proved how well trained and ready they were 

to take up the challenges of their portfolios. The 

role of District Governor is not always easy but this 

final meeting of the Council. One of the more 

significant items of work for the Council was the 

development of a strategic plan for the Multiple 

District. This plan will guide the direction of the 

Multiple District over the next five years and 

responds to the myriad of issues and concerns 

raised by Lions clubs around Australia in last year’s 

survey. The Council has listened to our members 

and taken this important step. 

The current Council has endorsed the broad 

strategic direction of the organisation in eight key 

areas. The incoming Council is charged with the 

responsibility to develop a five-year operational plan 

for the Multiple District with a mandate to grow and 

modernise the organisation. 

Those key areas of focus are: 

● Membership focus - A Lions membership 

demography that reflects Australia’s demography. 

● Governance to a plan – A national plan that 

guides the long-term future of the organisation. 

● A National theme and focus – Developing a 

Lion

year’s Governors faced additional extreme 

challenges when hit by one natural disaster after 

another. These challenges, met and conquered time 

and time again, will continue for some time into our 

next Lions year, but I am sure they will be tackled 

with the same vigour by the incoming District 

Governors. 

At council meetings I am pleased to say that 

each of the Governors strongly represented the 

views of their respective Districts, and also 

vigorously debated all business matters to ensure a 

proper outcome for the continued benefit, growth 

and health of this organisation. We have set in 

motion a Road Map from information and 

suggestions taken from the National Survey, the 

results of which will evolve over the ensuing year. 

Unfortunately the GMH-Holden sponsorship has 

lapsed this year. We appreciated this partnership as 

it was of great assistance towards the running of 

our National and District Conventions. However 

Executive Officer Rob Oerlemans is still working 

with Holden management in the hope of a 

continuing association with them. 

We are very pleased to have the National 

Australia Bank (NAB) continue to sponsor our Youth 

of the Year. Lions Australia is privileged to enjoy one 

of the longest partnerships NAB has had with any 

other community organisation and we certainly hope 

we can work with them for many more years. 

This year we welcomed a new partnership in 

Invocare, Australia’s and the Asia Pacific area’s 

leading funeral and related services company. 

Invocare boasts of 80 Lions members as part of 

their management group and are very supportive of 

many Lions projects. 

We have endeavoured to increase our Lions 

profile by targeting specific areas in all aspects of 

focus that is easily understood by the community as 

a rallying point for promotion. 

● Partnerships for funding and promotion. 

● Financial Sustainability. 

● A transparent legal and policy framework. 

● Technology to drive performance. 

● Accountability to our membership through 

reporting back at a strategic level. 

One of the early changes you will notice is the 

addition of a new Leadership Committee. The 

Multiple District has responded to the direction set 

by LCI to separate and bring focus to the important 

areas of Membership and Leadership, and the 

Council has determined that the new MD Global 

Leadership Team Coordinator will be part of the 

National Management group. A second important 

change resolved by Council is renaming our 

“Managers” to the new title of “National 

Coordinator”, to reflect the important role that they 

carry out in coordinating Multiple District 

Committees. 


Bob Gilchrist credits wife Barbara as being his 

anchor through his year as Council Chairman so it 

was fitting he showed his thanks publicly. 

the media. Our Executive Officer Rob has been 

working with our Public Relations group to produce 

audio and video aids for clubs, TV advertising, which 

has shown results in membership, a new blog page 

and a continuing upgrade of our Multidistrict 

website. All are designed to create greater 

awareness of the commitment of Lions to 

community service. 

Our Marketing manager PCC David McKenzie 

OAM continues to work with Qantas to endeavour to 

You will hear more about the review over the 

coming months but I would like to assure you that 

the outcome is more than a folder of papers to sit 

on a shelf, but a genuine plan to grow and sustain 

our organisation for the long term. There is a 

strong desire to be the very best service club 

organisation that we can be! 

– Rob Oerlemans 

Coming up 

Lions Clubs International Convention Seattle 

4-8 July 2011: An International Convention is a 

unique experience, and our Lions will have a large 

delegation to support our candidate for 2nd Vice 

President, PID Barry Palmer AM. Links to relevant 

information can be found at 

www.ozzielions.blogspot.com. Tickets for the 

Australian functions are now on sale! 

ANZI Forum: The inaugural Area Forum for Lions in 

our Constitutional Area will be held on the Gold 

Coast from 9-11 September 2011. An Area forum 

get Lions products in as part of the flight services. 

The addition of Fudge and Puddings to our product 

range has proven successful. We continue to 

develop our Youth Services with the appointment of 

a Youth Conversion Officer, who will keep contact 

with Youth of the Year and Youth Exchange 

participants to maintain a liaison with them and 

hopefully have them join a LEOs or Lions club. It is 

most important that we give these young people, 

especially the LEOs, encouragement for they in 

particular know how we value service to the 

community; they know what Lions are about, they 

are our future. 

My year as your Council Chairman has been a 

great experience; my duties have been lightened 

and made less onerous by the total cooperation of 

all the Governors, the experience of my Executive 

and Management group and assistance of the office 

staff. They have my heartfelt thanks. 

My thanks to my family, my Lions club and 

members of my District for their constant support 

and words of encouragement and, of course, last 

but not least my wife, Barbara, who has been my 

anchor and constant mainstay throughout these last 

two years. 

This has been a tremendous journey for Barbara 

and I. We have shared the highs and lows of fellow 

Lions at home and overseas who have experienced 

the trauma of floods, earthquakes and fires all of 

which brought home to us the true meaning of 

“Lions Caring and Sharing through Service”. We 

have enjoyed wonderful social fellowship and had 

the privilege of meeting some very inspirational 

people, leaving us with friendships and memories 

we will cherish for a lifetime. 

– Bob Gilchrist 

brings together Lions from New Zealand and the 

Pacific Islands, Australia and Indonesia, as well as 

strong representation from senior Lions from around 

the world. Consider this opportunity and browse the 

program on the forum website at 

http://lionsanzipacificforum.com/ 

District Conventions: Think about attending your 

District Convention to connect up with Lions from 

your District, and find out about the hundreds of 

things Lions does each year to improve our 

communities. Information can be found at 

http://www.lionsclubs.org.au/conventions/ 

Things to do 

· Remind yourself about the special offers for our 

Lions members. You can find these in the members 

area of your Oz-Clubhouse website, or at 

www.lionsclubs.org.au. 

· Attending a future International Convention? 

Don't forget to fill out the online survey. Go to 

www.ozzielions.blogspot.com to find out more! 

15

MS representative Anita Graham with Figtree’s President Kevin Hartley and Organising 

Committee Chairman Peter Brown. 

Figtree in the swim 

For 24 hours competing teams swam 

more than 1000km for cash 

When N2’s Figtree Lions jumped in to help 

MS Australia raise funds for people living with 

multiple sclerosis in the Illawarra earlier this 

year the result was impressive. 

They aided in the raising of $40,000 via the 

region’s first 24-hour Mega Swim. 

More than 225 swimmers from 17 teams swam 

more than 1000km in total during the relay-style 

event at the University of Wollongong’s Recreation 

and Aquatic Centre. 

Lions Clubs around Australia have supported 

National Tree Day since its inception back in 

1995. Now in its 16th year, National Tree Day 

has become Australia’s largest community 

tree planting event largely because of the 

support offered by community groups such 

as Lions. 

As well as being able to mingle with members 

of all ages in your community, you will have the 

chance to raise money and promote your local 

club and regular activities and functions. It can 

also be a good opportunity to recruit new 

members, as most National Tree Day volunteers 

are active 

community 

members 

interested in 

supporting 

community 

initiatives. 

16 

It was the first 

such a swim in the 

Illawarra with points 

awarded to teams 

for every 500m 

completed. At least 

one member from 

each tag-team had 

to remain in the 

water at all times. 

Among those 

who swam were 

Wollongong elite 

triathlete Ben Allen 

and champion longdistance 

swimmer 

Robert Hurley, both 

aiming for medals 

at London’s 2012 

Olympics. 

Ben swam 13km 

between 2am and 

5am. 

MS Australia has 

been running 24hour 

swims for 

some years 

throughout Australia. 

To help organise the event, an enthusiastic 

committee was formed chaired by Figtree Lion 

Peter Brown and including president Kevin Hartley, 

and members Arthur Smithers, Michael Cadorin and 

Geoff Failes, as well as representatives from URAC 

and MS Australia. 

Clinical Dietician with Port Kembla Hospital’s 

Illawarra Transitional Aged Care Service (ITACS), 

Get planning for tree planting 

Clubs can support National Tree Day in a 

couple of ways. Facilitate local tree planting and 

maintenance projects by coordinating a treeplanting 

site, or raise funds by putting on a 

barbecue at an existing local tree-planting event. 

Whatever the level of support offered, clubs can 

be assured their investment in the day will be well 

returned and most appreciated. 

Planet Ark also provides support to clubs 

wanting to host a site via its National Tree Day 

Hotline and website where downloadable 

resources and a step-by-step guide, as well as 

tools to help Site Coordinators promote their treeplanting, 

are readily available. 

If you would like more information about 

National Tree Day or to register your interest in 

supporting a local event, visit 

http://treeday.planetark.org or call the National 

Tree Day hotline on 1300 88 5000. 

Anita Graham was the principal coordinator and 

driving force. 

A keen swimmer with a close family member 

with MS, Anita said she often sees patients living 

with the illness and the devastating effect it can 

have on lives. “I also have a zeal for sharing my love 

of swimming; I grew up with the sport and 

competed at high levels, so bringing the two 

together in this way has been very rewarding,” she 

said. 

“The trials and tribulations of participating in this 

24-hour event, such as fatigue, muscle tiredness 

and muscle weakness, provided participants with a 

small snapshot of what it’s like to live with MS.” 

Local specialists also joined the action and 

Anita’s fellow ISLHN dieticians hosted a nutrition 

stand providing fruit skewers, free cookbooks and 

other goodies. 

Figtree Lions worked barbecue shifts throughout 

the 24 hours, while others helped log laps 

completed by teams and handed out goodie bags 

containing swim caps, newspapers, t-shirts and 

other donated items. 

The winning team, the MS Thrashers, raised just 

over $10,000 and covered more than 70km. 

Funds will aid 38 Illawarra people living with MS 

with a Go for Gold scholarship to assist with inhome 

respite, further education, home modifications 

and child care. 

Lions Club President Kevin Hartley described the 

swim as one of Figtree’s greatest fundraising 

achievements. 

“No one worked harder than Anita – she was 

instrumental in its success,” said Committee 

Chairman Peter Brown. 

– Geoff Failes 

Lion

Book now! 

ANZI-PACIFIC 

FORUM 

FILLING FAST 

There has been a 

constant flow of 

registrations for 

the ANZI PACIFIC 

FORUM at 

Jupiter’s Hotel at 

Broadbeach on 

the Gold Coast 

(9-11 

September). 

While most of 

the early bookings 

were made by Australian Lions, they’ve now been 

joined by a steady number of New Zealand and 

Indonesian members. However, there is still time for 

you to register for this historic event, the first 

Constitutional Area forum held in our part of the 

world, and you can do so by visiting our website – 

www.lionsanzipacificforum.com. 

Hopefully, soon after you read this article, PID 

Barry Palmer will be elected at the Seattle 

International Convention to the position of 

International 2nd Vice President, the first Australian 

to serve and represent us at the highest level of our 

organisation. For those of you unable to go to 

Seattle to see this historic event, PID Barry will be 

at the forum and you can show your support and 

delight at his success. 

All 56 forum and special events already have 

significant reservations and the three luncheons and 

the Saturday night Gala Banquet are all being 

booked at a level above expectations. Our forum 

raffle is now available and we hope you will be able 

to buy some tickets in this as it has some very 

exciting prizes. 

You will now find full details on our website 

concerning each forum and event, including a top 

line-up of presenters and panellists from Australia, 

New Zealand and Indonesia. Again, please go to the 

website to learn how your club can be involved in 

two special forums, the New Inventors Show and 

Win at Monopoly. A couple of highlights include: 

Session 1 – “The Doctor’s Travelling Revival 

Show” – Friday, 9th September – 13:50-15:10 

Come one, come all, and let the good doctor cure 

your Lions problems in a travelling revival meeting 

atmosphere – miracles may be performed before 

your very eyes. This special headline presentation 

will include music and song from travelling doctor, 

PDG John Muller (201 Q2). Lots of opportunity for 

attendees of the headline forum to be involved – 

got a special ailment you’d like cured? Email Doctor 

John and he could mix a potion to be taken at his 

Travelling Revival Show – jsrellum@yahoo.com.au 

Those of you who heard PDG John speak at 


Launceston know that he is a dynamic speaker and 

this session should not be missed. 

Session 3 – “Mastermind” – Saturday, 10th 

September – 8:30-9:50 

Quiz Master Past International Director Cliff 

Heywood (MD202) will test your knowledge of Lions 

in an entertaining and educational manner. If you 

are interested in becoming a contestant you will be 

asked to put your name in a ballot box on arrival at 

the registration area. At the Mastermind 

Presentation names will be drawn for the 

opportunity to go on stage and participate in the 

quiz. Those who get a number of questions right will 

qualify for the final. The final will be a sudden death 

elimination round, and if you get a question wrong 

you rejoin the audience. The last person standing 

will be the Mastermind Champion and wins a prize. 

Quick action – lots of fun – very informative. Give it 

a Go – show us what you are made of! 

PID Cliff does a great job with this format and 

this session is highly recommended. 

With clubs having elected their club officers for 

2011/12, it is anticipated many of these officers will 

start booking the forums especially available to 

them. An exciting forum for club presidents will be 

their meeting with the International President. Some 

clubs are covering the registration fee for the 

president, secretary and treasurer while others are 

paying a percentage of the registration fee for any 

of their members to attend. 

Another highlight for club presidents (including 

Lioness presidents) will be in the Opening 

Ceremony. Presidents in attendance, or another 

member of the club, will be asked to participate in a 

“Parade of Clubs” proudly holding a sign identifying 

your club. 

Everything is running smoothly toward a 

wonderful ANZI-PACIFIC Forum! Few Australian 

Lions have been fortunate to experience the 

enthusiasm and good times associated with a 

forum. We hope you will attend to soak it all in. 

Mind you, the Gold Coast in September is a great 

place to soak up some Queensland sun as well. I 

look forward to seeing you at our inaugural ANZI- 

Pacific Forum to meet and greet our friends from 

New Zealand, Indonesia and the Pacific Islands who 

will be in attendance. We’ll have a great time! 

Kind Regards, 

Ken Bird, 

Past International Director, 

Forum Planning Committee Co-Chairman 

17

MD 201 District Governors 2011 - 2012 

District C1 

Name: Lyn 

Shoemark 

Name of Partner: 

Geoff Shoemark 

Names of Children: 

Wayne, Rebecca & 

Matthew 

No. of Years a Lion: 12 

Years on Club Board: Most years 

Years on District Cabinet: 7 

Theme/Motto for Year: Service – Fellowship – 

Fulfilment 

Main Objectives for Year: Ensure the future of 

my district 

Lions Interests: Increase awareness of Lions 

within our local and wider communities, promote 

Youth Projects 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Being 

instrumental in bringing C1 & C2 Districts together 

with ALF to sponsor Healthy Athletes Program for 

2010 National Special Olympics in Adelaide, which 

resulted in most successful program ever run. 

Senior Lions Leadership Institute (NZ) 2011 

Awards: MJF, James D Richardson, ALCMF Silver 

Award, Lions Quest Gold Award, Star Award, DGs 

Appreciation Award for Services to DG’s Bulletin, 2 

District Bulletin Awards, 2 Club Secretaries Awards, 

1 Club President Award, Certificate of Recognition 

for Volunteering at World Police & Fire Games. 

Business Interests: Human resources 

management (retired) 

Civic Interests: Volunteering in numerous charity 

and sporting events in South Australia 

Sporting Interests: Tennis, swimming, 

gymnastics, football (go the Crows!) – all purely 

spectator and from the comfort of an armchair 

District C2 

Name: Trevor Jacobs 

Partner: Susan 

Jacobs 


Corey, Matthew, 

Caroline and Leanne 

No. of years a Lion: 

31 

On Club Board: 18 

On District Cabinet: 12 

Theme/Motto: Youth – Today’s Tomorrow 

Main Objectives: To work with clubs to ensure 

that they focus more time on the youth within their 

communities 

Lions Interests: To restore quality of life to both 

young and old who are disadvantaged in any way 

Lions Achievements: State Coordinator SA/NT 

Youth of the Year 

Awards: James Richardson, District Governor 

Appreciation, 100% Secretary, President 

18 

Appreciation 

Business Interests: Retired after 12 years in 

retail industry 

Sporting Interests: Following local football and 

netball competitions 

Other Interests: Being with my family and grandchildren 

who keep me reasonably young, travelling 

District N1 

Name: Peter John 

Blom OAM, JP 


Carmel 


Lyndal and Nicholas 

No. of Years a Lion: 

8 

Years on Club Board: 8 


Years on MD Committees: 4 

Theme/Motto for Year: Today’s Youth, 

Tomorrow’s Lions 

Main Objectives for Year: Ensure everyone 

enjoys their Lions work. Look for suitable Extension 

areas. Make Retention a goal not just a word. 

Lions Interests: Youth projects particularly Leos 

because they are our future 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: The 

formation of the Lions Club of Dungowan and 

being Charter President 

Business Interests: Retired 

Civic Interests: Local community involvement 

Sporting Interests: I like all sports mainly, rugby 

league football. Parramatta Eels fanatic 

District N2 

Name: Geoff Hobart 


Cherie 


Lindsay and Rowena 

No. of Years a 

Lion: 16 



Theme/Motto for Year: Dare to Serve 

Main Objectives for Year: Lions working 

together to achieve great things 

Lions Interests: Youth projects and Organ 

Donation 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Graduate 

Senior Lions Leadership Institute, graduate Lions 

Faculty Development Institute 

Awards: Melvin Jones Fellow, James D. 

Richardson Honour Award, Neil Williams Esteemed 

Member Award, International President’s Medal for 

Outstanding Leadership 

Business Interests: Retired police officer, 

consultant 

Civic Interests: Member United Nations 

Association, indigenous health issues 

Sporting Interests: Supporter ACT Brumbies and 

Formula 1 motor racing 

District N3 

Name: Robert (Bob) 

Findley 


Eileen Findley 


Rose, Charles and 5 

granddaughters 


Lion: 27 



Theme/Motto for Year: Refresh the Future 

Main Objectives for Year: Focus district Cabinet 

on the Lions International Purposes with emphasis 

on membership, club formation, youth and Leos 

Lions Interests: Service to local communities, 

support of Lions foundations, preservation and 

promotion of the Lions image and brand 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Key part of 

district team raising funds for establishment of 

pediatric/palliative care facilities in Hunter and 

Northern NSW hospitals. Led own club to sponsor 

free riverside concerts for local culture 

improvements. Served twice as club president and 

increased membership both times. Led the change 

of my own to a mixed club 

Awards: Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow, 

International President’s Appreciation Certificate, 2nd 

Vice Governor Excellence Award, 3 DG Star Awards, 

2 Club President Excellence Awards, District 

Treasurer Recognition Awards, District Lion of the 

Year, DG Appreciation Award, DG Appreciation 

Certificate, 3 District Chairman’s Awards, 4 100% 

Club Secretaries Awards, NSW/ACT Save Sight – 

Prof Bilson Platinum Award, ALF – William R Tresise 

Fellow, ALF – Ian Stockdale Humanitarian Award, 

ALCMF – Mary Jamieson Recognition Award, Lions 

Quest Silver Award & Key Award 

Business Interests: Bachelor of Engineering 

(Mechanical), design engineer, plant installation 

supervision, contracts management in fabrication 

and construction, inventory management in steel 

merchandising, strategic planning, integrated 

supply chain management in manufacturing 

Civic Interests: Church and local school councils 

Sporting Interests: Fishing, walking, cycling, 

motorsport 

District N4 

Name: Michele 

Bentley 


Justin (Emma) plus 2 

granddaughters 


Lion

Lion: 21 




Theme/Motto for Year: Lions Caring for Lions 

and the Community 

Main Objectives for Year: Maintain district 

growth; welfare of members and promoting Lions’ 

own foundations, particularly those related to Helen 

Kellar’s Challenge to be “Knights of the Blind” 

Lions Interests: Working on community projects; 

sight and hearing projects, particularly NSW/ACT 

Save Sight and Public Health Care Foundation and 

Lions Hearing Dogs 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Cabinet 

Secretary, YOTY State Co-ordinator, graduate of 

Senior Lions Leadership Institute, Zone Chairman 

(3), various Cabinet positions, Director of NSW/ACT 

Save Sight and Health Care Foundation (12 yrs), 

Minutes Sec (6 yrs), Lions rep on NSW Eye Bank 

Committee, Councillor on NSW Save Sight Institute 

Board 

Awards: Neville Tucker Award; Appreciation 

Awards – Presidents (2); Secretary (2), Outstanding 

Zone Chairman; Key Member (5 members) 

Business Interests: About to retire after 35 years 

as admin manager at Ardlethan Central School 

Civic Interests: Carols By Candlelight, Past 

Executive Member of CWA (Ardlethan). Have been 

involved over many years with scouts, guides, 

P&C, Ardlethan Aged Units Committee, Past Hon. 

Secretary of bowling club 

Sporting Interests: Retired tennis and squash 

player, armchair cricket, tennis, bowls and rugby 

tragic 

District N5 

Name: Stephen 

Coleman 


Mckaela and Alex 

Coleman. 


Lion: 11 



Theme/Motto for Year: Building a City of Lions 

Main Objectives for Year: Continuity and 

Transition 

Lions Interests: Lions High School Deaf Camps, 

Lions Diabetes Kids Camps, helping wherever I can 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Providing 

confidence within camps to enable kids to succeed 

Awards: MJF, Harry Hession Bronze Honour 

Award, Win Tyquin Award, 2 DG Awards 

Business Interests: Transporting and installing 

woodworking machinery. Company director with 

Redback Construction Pty Ltd 

Civic Interests: Helping other Lions clubs with big 

projects 

Sporting Interests: Cricket, fishing, rugby 


District Q1 

Name: Lorraine 

McKenzie 


PCC David McKenzie 

OAM 


Tania and Shaun, 4 

grandchildren 

No. of Years a Lion: 30 (10 Lioness, 20 Lion) 



Theme/Motto for Year: We Are The World 

Main Objectives for Year: To have fun & 

fellowship while promoting the great work that 

Lions do in their areas, districts, multiple districts 

and globally 

Lions Interests: All youth (including ALDAF ) and 

community service projects 


Senior Lions Leadership Institute 2008, certified 

Guiding Lion 

Awards: 100% President, 100% Secretary, 

District Club Secretary of the Year Award, MJF, 

Harry Jenkins Fellow, JD Richardson Honour 

Award, Ray Phippard Fellow, Ian M Stockdale 

Award, Ian Frazer Humanitarian Award, 

International President’s Certificate of Appreciation 


Civic Interests: Chair Australian Citizenship 

Ceremony through Lions and helping the 

community 

Sporting Interests: Follow cricket & rugby union 

District Q2 

Name: Barry 

Brockbank 


Joy Morgan 

Names of 

Children: Mathew, 

Bronwen and 

Simon, 2 grandchildren 




Theme/Motto for Year: Lions – people doing 

extraordinary things 

Main Objectives for Year: Develop and 

encourage a younger membership – our youth our 

future 

Lions Interests: Medical research, health and 

welfare 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Helping 

rebuild my own club from one which was close to 

closing 

Awards: 100% Presidency, 100% Zone, Key 

Awards, Top 5% President’s Award x 2, James D 

Richardson 

Business Interests: Sensis Yellow Pages 

Civic Interests: Community support 

Sporting Interests: Rugby union/league, 

yachting, walking, hiking, history, strategy 

computer gaming 

District Q3 

Name: Arthur 

Witheyman 


Cynthia 


Michelle, Craig, 

Nicole, Lee and 11 

grandchildren 




Theme/Motto for Year: Lions – Showing we 

Care. Extending the caring ethos of the ‘We Serve’ 

theme to also embrace the members of our Lions 

Family 

Main Objectives for Year: Achieve a net increase 

in membership by creating new clubs and reducing 

number of members lost unnecessarily. Encourage 

clubs to conduct a Community Needs Assessment 

to allow them to be more visible in their respective 

communities. Encourage clubs to obtain a better 

balance between fundraising projects and handson 

community service projects to ensure we allow 

members the opportunity to meet their individual 

needs as Lions 

Lions Interests: Children of Courage, Youth of the 

Year, medical research and reducing the number of 

members we lose each year because we fail to 

meet their needs 


Senior Lions Leadership Institute Perth 2009. 

Certified Guiding Lion. As Cabinet Treasurer, 

implemented changes to District budgeting 

process and in conjunction with PDG Norm Alcock 

set up a Chart of Accounts to lead to better 

understanding of financial demands placed upon 

District. This has provided greater transparency 

and consistency in financial reporting process 

Awards: President's Appreciation Award, 100% 

President's Award, International President's 

Certificate of Appreciation, 4 District Chairman's 

Awards, 2 DGs Appreciation Awards, Key Award, 2 

Star Awards, James D Richardson Honour Award, 

Melvin Jones Fellowship 

Business Interests: Retired after career in 

accounting and computing 

Civic Interests: Lions and Crime Stoppers 

Sporting Interests: Grandchildrens’ sporting 

activities, tennis, cycling and awaiting the return of 

the halcyon days of the Richmond Football Club 

19

MD 201 District Governors 2011 - 2012 

District Q4 

Name: John Lindsay 


Estelle 


Rodney and Nicole 

No. of Years in 

Lions: 20 



Theme/Motto for Year: Where There’s Need, 

There’s Lions 

Main Objectives for Year: Implement GMT/GLT 

with emphasis on club care. Encourage all clubs 

to conduct annual health checks to ensure 

members needs are being met. Positive 

membership growth by encouraging fun in all 

activities 

Lions Interest: Youth and health related projects. 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Graduate of 

Leadership Institutes in Christchurch and Perth and 

being endorsed for District Governor 

Awards: Winner 2010 Bank of Queensland MD’s 

Award for Community Service ($20,000 bank 

donation to my Lions club). Club, District and 

International President’s Appreciation Awards. James 

D Richardson Honour Award, Professor Ian Fraser 

Humanitarian Award and Melvin Jones Fellowship. 

Business Interest: Banking 

Civic Interests: Promoting Lionism and our many 

projects 

Sporting Interest: Walking, gardening and Bronco 

supporter 

District T1 

Name: D “Toby” 

Crawford 


Julie 


Louise, Ebony, James 

and Thomas 

No. of Years a Lion: 23 + 11 years as a LEO 




Theme/Motto for Year: Lions and Youth Making 

a Difference Together 

Main Objectives for Year: Getting Lions more 

involved in youth activities/projects, especially 

LEOs. Encourage all Lions to look after club 

members regarding retention 

Lions Interests: All Youth Projects, Lions training 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Lions Youth 

Network eXpress (LYNX), Senior Lions Leadership 

Institute Graduate, T.L.F. Chairman 

Awards: Melvin Jones Fellowship, T.L.F. 

Fellowship, numerous District Governor awards 

20 

including one as a LEO in QLD, 2 x 100% 

President’s Awards, Key Member. 

Business Interests: Builder, currently serving as 

Vice President of the H.I.A. Tasmanian branch. 

Civic Interests: Sunshine Association, Lions 

Sporting Interests: Football, cricket, golf 

District V1-4 

Name: Phillip Sheriff 


PDG Margaret 


Leanne, Carolyn 

Geoffrey and 6 

grandchildren 


Lion: 16 



Theme/Motto for Year: Begin with the End in 

Mind 

Main Objectives for Year: To maintain and 

increase clubs and membership 

Lions Interests: Youth of the Year, Lions 

International Stamp Club 


Treasurer (4 terms), Cabinet Secretary Victorian 

Lions Foundation Treasurer (4 terms) 

Awards: 2 DG Star Awards, VLF Leo Tyquin 

Award, 1 DG Appreciation Award 

Business Interests: Retired business manager 

Civic Interests: Treasurer Uniting Church Parish 

Council, Masonic Lodge. 

Sporting Interests: Lawn bowls, AFL – “Go 

Swans” 

District V2 

Name: David Lowing 


Marlene Lowing 


Karen, Sally, Andrew 

and Samantha 


Lion: 17 



Years on MD Committees: 3 – YE Chairman: 

Scandinavia/United Kingdom, Indonesia/New 

Zealand & International Youth Camps. 

Theme/Motto for Year: Caring is Giving and 

Sharing 

Main Objectives for Year: Consolidating existing 

clubs, further club extension, create and promote 

youth welfare, promote mental awareness and 

extend health & youth programs. 

Lions Interests: Youth programs, sight and 

hearing, creating harmony between Lions 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Youth 

Exchange awarded the LCI Top Ten Award. As 

LEHP Club Director, from 2000 to 2005, eye tested 

the Lake Bolac & District twice, a men’s health 

night each year which uncovered a number of 

residents with medical problems. Senior Lions 

Institute and Certified “Guiding Lions” Course. 

Awards: Lions Leadership Award (Lighting the 

Path) from PI P J Frank Moore 3rd, Lions Eye 

Health Award from PIP Ashok Mehta. Recognition 

Award for promoting & maintaining District Youth 

activities from PIP Mahendra Amarasuriya. 2 x 

Youth Appreciation Awards, District Star Award, 8 

DGs Appreciation Awards 

Business Interests: Retired after 49 years in 

rural industry, now part-time sheep and wool 

consultant 

Civic Interests: Volunteering for the Victorian 

Office of the Public Advocate & Department of 

Justice, as an Independent Third Person & a Youth 

Referral Independent Person working with the 

Victorian Police Service 

Sporting Interests: Cricket, golf, tennis & AFL 

football 

District V3 

Name: Kenneth H 

Blay 


Lion Sheryl Blay 


Andrew, Danielle, 

Simon, Kane, Kirsty, 

Bianca, Scott and 8 grandchildren. 




Theme/Motto for Year: Together we inspire to 

achieve 

Main Objectives for Year: Additional Leos clubs. 

More participation by clubs in Youth of the Year. 

Look towards Lions clubs in retirement/senior 

citizens villages 

Lions Interests: Promotion of clubs in local 

media, prostate cancer research 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: International 

President's Leadership Award 2009-10, 2 DG 

Appreciation awards 

Awards: Melvin Jones Fellow and as above. 


Civic Interests: Encouraging all in their 

communities to work together towards a common 

goal 

Sporting Interests: The mighty AFL Saints 

Lion

District V5 

Name: Louis Onley 


Kaye (Kate) Onley 


Natarsha & Chris, 

Nicole & Michael, 

Shaun & Naomi, 

Kimberley & Michael. Plus 6 grandchildren. 


Years on Club Board: 22 (various clubs) 

Years on District Cabinet: 12 – V6 N4 V5 

Theme/Motto for Year: Together as one we 

serve 

Main Objectives for Year: Communication 

between district, clubs and members, new and 

older, is the best it has ever been. The number of 

Lions able to contribute to community service 

continues to increase through new clubs and 

stronger existing clubs 

Lions Interests: Extending Lions within the 

community and youth programs. 


Senior Lions Leadership Institute, Cabinet 

Secretary, Convention Chairman, Licola Board 

management 9 years, introduced 14 Lions 

members and 1 club. 

Awards: MJF, 2 Life Governor Awards, Excellence 

Award, 2 Star Awards, 7 DG Awards. 

Business Interests: Industry mentor for AMCA, 

retired director air conditioning companies and 

manufacturing 

Civic Interests: Community welfare. 

Sporting Interests: Sydney (South Melbourne) 

Football Club, and all national teams 

District V6 

Name: Brenda 

Henderson 


Wayne Henderson 


Brett (Angela), Kim 

(Darren), Michelle 

(Perry), Paul (Renee) & Kylie (Matt) plus 10 

Grandchildren 




Theme/Motto for Year: Lions – People helping 

People 

Main Objectives for Year: Increase in overall 

membership of District. Encouraging clubs to be 

receptive to new ideas. Increase the profile of 

clubs within their communities by using the media 

to promote club projects and events 

Lions Interests: Membership,Youth Projects, 

health programs 



Secretary 2004/05, 2006/07, 2007/08. Senior 

Lions Institute. Club President (2) Club Secretary 

(2) Being elected to the position of District 

Governor. Guiding Lion, Key Member Award. 

Awards: Melvin Jones Fellow, International 

President’s Certificate of Appreciation. DG 

Appreciation Award, Star Awards, 2004/2005 and 

2005/2006. Zone Chairman Award 

Business Interests: Retired after 20 years in the 

insurance industry. Occasionally assist husband 

Wayne with his insurance brokerage. 

Civic Interests: Lions representative on steering 

committee of the Albury Wodonga Carers 

Accommodation Centre 

Sporting Interests: Tennis, netball and 

Collingwood Football Club 

District W1 

Name: Stuart 

MacFadyen 

Name of 

Partner: Joan 

Names of 

Children: Brad 

(Wendy), Sandra 

(Nicolai). Grandchildren Amy, Jacob, Ashlee Joan 




Theme/Motto for Year: Growing Together in the 

Service of Others 

Main Objectives for Year: Building up the clubs 

membership along with an increase in clubs 

formed 

Lions Interests: Lions Children of Courage 

Awards started in the West and now growing 

throughout the world 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: James D 

Richardson 

Awards: Many club and district awards 

Business Interests: Professional bus driver 

Sporting Interests: All forms of motor racing (the 

louder the better) 

District W2 

Name: Peter Lamb 


Lion Helen Lamb 


Jamie (Lion), 

Anthony, David, Craig 

and 8 grandchildren 

No. of Years a Lion: 35 (Fremantle & Mandurah 

Clubs) 

Years on Club Board: 30+ 

Years on District Cabinet: 15+ 

Years on MD Committees: 8 ( Leos & Traveland) 

Theme/Motto for Year: Leadership, Equality & 

Opportunity with an accent on Youth Projects 

Main Objectives for Year: Back to Basics – 

Membership, Retention, Extensions, Leadership, 

Conciliation and Community Awareness. Promote & 

implement information technology as a means of 

better communication & promote improved district, 

project & club websites. Assist all Youth Projects 

with particular emphasis on promotion of new Leo 

clubs. Promotion of Drug Awareness in WA 

Lions Interests: Leos, Youth Projects, WA Lions 

Drug Education, Lions Myalup Pines Cottages. 

Outstanding Lions Achievements: Graduate – 

Senior Lions Leadership Institute, Guiding Lion, MD 

Leo Chairman 

Awards: MJF, James D Richardson, International 

President’s Award (2) 100% President & Secretary 

Awards 

Business Interests: Managing director Ausure 

Insurance Brokers Mandurah 

Civic Interests: Lions, BNI 

Sporting Interests: Fremantle Dockers Football 

Club, golf, boating 

In the chair 

Registered nurse Vickey Casey has 

reason to look comfortable. She’s trying 

out a new Broda CS 385 mobile shower 

commode chair. 

The chair had just been presented to 

Andrews House aged-care facility in 

Trafalgar, Victoria. 

Easy to use, the chair was handed over 

by Trafalgar President Merv Moon to 

Andrews House manager Janet Moore 

and West Gippsland Health Care Group 

CEO Ormond Pearson. 

21

MILLION DOLLAR “MIRACLE” 

ROSY ROSY RESULTS 

for cord blood 

project 

More than $1 million has been raised by Lions 

to assist children suffering life-threatening 

diseases such as leukaemia and blood-related 

disorders. 

The money has come via the Lions Cord Blood 

Foundation, a Category B MD project. 

In thanking Lions Australia wide for their 

invaluable work, the foundation 

encourages more 

clubs to get involved. 

For eight years 

foundation chairperson, 

Lion Patricia Forsyth, has 

led fundraising through 

her inspirational efforts in 

organising the annual 

Australian Grocery Grab. 

Other activities include saving 

“corks for cords” and the St 

Valentine’s Day red rose sale in 

Melbourne. 

Patricia and her team 

encourage other Lions and clubs 

to take up these activities. 

Funds are directed to the BMDI Cord Blood Bank 

at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. 

The Bank has a gained a world-wide reputation 

for high-quality cord blood samples for local, 

national and international medical institutions. 

Cord blood samples are rich in stem cells and 

are selected in a best-match process to replace the 

child’s disease-affected blood supply. 

The bank has nearly 10,000 cord blood units 

stored and cooled in liquid nitrogen tanks to minus 

196°C. Prior to 1996, only bone marrow 

22 

transplants were 

used to deal with 

blood disorders in 

children suffering conditions 

such as leukaemia. However, these were 

only 40% successful, mainly because marrow 

donors cannot always be found. 

From its humble beginnings, storage of cord 

blood samples offered a more successful way of 

treating childhood leukaemia or blood related 

disorders and soon this approach was found to 

increase the success rate to around 70%. 

The bank has released 365 cord blood units, with 

100 going to Australian patients and 265 to 

international transplant centres. Research and 

technology has greatly extended the use of cord 

blood to adults and in the treatment of a greater 

range of both malignant and non-malignant 

diseases such as those 

associated with genetic 

malfunctions of the 

Lions selling roses to raise funds for Cord Blood and (pictured left) Lion 

Patricia Forsyth pushing the message with Dr Ngaire Elwood (right). 

immune system, of which there are more than 200 

disorders. 

The foundation has been at the forefront of these 

developments, helping fund medical storage 

equipment and, more recently, research. 

Undertaken at the Murdoch Children’s Research 

Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, this research has 

reached an interesting stage, proving the rate of 

blood cell recovery following a cord blood transplant 

is dependent upon certain characteristics of the 

chromosome make-up of individual samples. 

The Lions Cord Blood Foundation is proud to be 

associated with these findings as they offer 

improved survival rates for children and adults. 

Current chairman, Lion Ron Tregear, and his hard 

working committee praise Lions in supporting Dr 

Ngaire Elwood, Director of the BMDI Cord Blood 

Bank, and her dedicated team in striving to achieve 

their vision of saving lives and eliminating suffering. 

Yes, we are VOLUNTEERS! 

When Modbury Lions in the north-east suburbs of Adelaide became 

aware there were people who didn’t realise Lions donate time and 

energy without expectation of personal monetary benefit, they 

thought they had better do something about it. 

So they ordered new barbecue aprons that clearly branded them as 

“volunteers”. It’s an idea that might interest other clubs. 

LEFT: Alan Zwar, George Grzeskowiak and Bob Gregory proudly display their 

new “volunteer” barbecue aprons. 

Lion

OPERATION SMILE 

Lions thanked for ongoing 

efforts in making young 

lives happier 

Thanks to Lions of Australia, many young 

people around the world will be spared from 

living with disfiguring complaints. 

Already many children have undergone 

operations through Lions support of the Operation 

Smile project and more will follow. 

According to Operation Smile Australia founder, 

Dr Richard Lewandowski, Lions support has made 

possible both the Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate Mission to 

Cambodia in 2010 and an educational program for 

the medical staff of Operation Smile Cambodia. 

“Not only have many children had their cleft 

conditions corrected, but the very same Cambodian 

medical team have been mentored to a point where 

they will be able to independently perform 

corrective surgeries for the children of Cambodia in 

the future,” he said. 

Early this year OSA volunteers returned to 

Cambodia to continue this collaboration with the 

aim of building up the Cambodian service. 

OSA will continue to develop the program in 

coming years and, with the ongoing support of 

Lions, will ensure that every child born with a facial 

deformity will have the opportunity of corrective 

surgery and ancillary treatment to the same 

standard as children in Australia. 

This month a young girl, Elizabeth Aisamaia from 

Papua New Guinea, was due to arrive in Brisbane 

for a major operation to correct abnormal tongue 

growth. While the nature of this problem sounds 

terrible, the medical team is confident of a 

satisfactory result. 

OSA will also undertake two missions in China 

this year at opposite ends of the country. 

In August, 15 Australian volunteers will visit 

Kashgarin in the far west as part of an International 

Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate mission. In November, 24 

Australians will travel to Fengkai for another 

International Cleft Lip/Palate Mission. 

Planning is also underway for 2012. OSA has 

been asked to be a major contributor to several 

missions and teaching programs in the Philippines. 

One of the most exciting will involve the first 

craniofacial mission to Davao, where the vast 

majority of complex craniofacial cases originate. 

In 11 years, 19 children and their families have 

come to Australia from the Philippines for major 

corrective surgery. This year another two will arrive. 

“The ongoing support of Lions Australia will turn 

these plans into reality and help to provide the 

children of our near neighbours with the medical 

treatment and care they so desperately need,” said 

Dr Lewandowski. But more help is needed. For 

details or to arrange an OSA guest speaker, contact 

Project Chairman David Floyd on (07) 3892 7130 – 

or email dtgfloyd@bigpond.net.au. 

June - - July 2011 

Two young patients who could soon be smiling thanks to Lions-supported corrective surgery. 

23

Day to remember 

It was a typical scene right round the nation 

... Lions helping out or running Anzac Day 

remembrance ceremonies. 

This one was V5 Mooroolbark club’s service 

conducted by MR Chris Clifton, the honorary 

chaplain to the Lilydale RSL. 

Taking part were students of Mooroolbark 

College and Yarra Hills Secondary College. 

24 

Tail twister Glenn Rodda (right) hands over the 

stuffed Lion to winning bidder “Gomer” Pye. 

Dollar extraction 

Robyn Collins of V3’s Trafalgar Lions is 

so keen for members to purchase Lions 

merchandise she sets up a trading table 

at club meetings. 

Among goods on offer was an 

International Publication for Tail Twisters and 

a stuffed lion which she passed on to 

resident clown and tail twister Glenn Rodda. 

Always keen to extract a dollar from 

members, Lion Glenn tried one of the ideas 

in the book, auctioning the lion. While he 

expected to make $5 and hoped for $10, he 

was pleasantly delighted when Lion “Gomer” 

Pye bid $15. 

“Gomer” retains it for a month, during 

which he is exempt from fines during tail 

twisting sessions – but he suffers a hefty fine 

if he loses it between meetings. 

The yet-to-be-named Lion will be 

auctioned each month. 

AROUND THE NATION 

Fronting the rehab bar 

Burn Rubber Burn, a rehabilitation exercise 

program based at Sydney’s Penrith PCYC 

(Police-Citizens Youth Club), has a new set of 

parallel bars after receiving $1000 from 

Cambridge Park Lions Club. 

The program helps people with physical 

disabilities to improve their fitness, health and 

ability to function independently. 

Burn Rubber Burn manager Simone Robinson 

said regular exercise eased the burden on family 

members by helping to avoid secondary diseases 

such as obesity, cardiovascular disease and 

diabetes. 

She said there were a number of valuable uses 

for the parallel bars but their primary function would 

be to help people walk again. They would be 

particularly useful for those recovering from stroke, 

spinal or brain injuries. 

“A lot of members at Penrith are walkers but not 

That’s a wrap! 

Queensland’s Cleveland Challenge Lions 

Club has done it again – broken its own 

record of 600 “Love Wraps” made “with 

love” for troubled youth attending Lions 

Youth Insearch Camps. 

In nine years the Q1 club, with the support of 

an army of Redland City community 

volunteers, has made 750 wraps. 

RIGHT: Youth Insearch Chair Celeste Parker with 

Q1 DG Lesley Lyons, Cleveland Challenge 

President Annette Adams and the 750th wrap. 

AT THE BAR: (from left) Lions John Polland and Bob 

Whalan, Karen Quinn (Manager Penrith PCYC), Lion 

Ken Mason and Simone Robinson (Manager Burn 

Rubber Burn). 

constant walkers and, if they were to walk with their 

crutches down the street and someone bumped 

them, they would fall over,” Simone said. 

“We need to teach them to walk safely again.” 

She said many patients could only stand on one 

leg immediately after a stroke, and the bars would 

also serve as a much-needed confidence boost for 

those wanting to stand on their own two feet again. 

She thanked Lions committee member and 

stroke survivor Ken Mason for bringing the program 

to the club’s attention. “We are very excited to 

receive the grant. We rely solely on the generosity 

of the community.” 

Lion

Bendigo Lions 

man the 

Easter banner 

Victoria’s Bendigo zone 

clubs again raised the Lions 

profile by joining in the 

city’s gala Easter 

procession. 

The club gets great coverage 

from local radio and an 

enthusiastic reception from the 

crowd. 

This year they were joined 

by Maryborough’s Wayne, Graeme and Jean with their 

Lions Cake and Mints trailers. 

In recent years local Lions have been marshals for 

both the torchlight procession on Sunday evening and 

the gala procession. 

April - May 2011 

This year members 

from Bendigo, Kangaroo 

Flat, Maiden Gully- 

Marong, Huntly-Epsom 

and Strathfieldsaye clubs 

assisted float control. 

BUNNIES AT WORK: The Lugarno Lions, Georges River Lioness and Special 

Olympics Inner-West Lions brought Easter cheer to residents and staff in four 

nursing homes in the Sydney Peakhurst area with 500 chocolate Easter bunnies. 

"It was a pleasure to see the rooms light up with smiles when we entered with our 

bunny ears and baskets eggs.” said PDG Elvio Munzone. The “bunnies” even played 

the piano and sang a few songs. 

Healesville set for 50th 

Victoria’s Healesville Club celebrates 50 years in August with an 

anniversary luncheon (Sunday, August 14, RACV Healesville Country Club). 

Gathering time is 11.30am (seated at 12.15) with a cost of $35.00 per head 

(drinks at bar prices). Bookings with payment essential and 50th Anniversary Pins 

are available ($3.00 each). Bookings to be collected at venue on day or forwarded – 

plus postage. Contact: Lions Club of Healesville 50th, PO Box 167 Healesville, Vic 

3777 – RSVP August 5, Secretary P. Walker (03) 59626319. 

The Lion Mint trailer 

was a parade highlight in 

Bendigo. 

Dimboola hits the highway 

Victoria’s Dimboola club might not be large but it makes a mighty 

contribution. 

Over Easter it was busier than ever with its driver-reviver stop at Lochiel. 

The wayside stop is one of the few sites in Victoria with a permanent 

building. It was built twelve years ago entirely by Lions 

Off the road, it boasts a parking area large enough to hold about 20 

cars as well as caravans. There is a well maintained toilet block and tables 

and seats for picnickers. 

The stop is operated during all school holidays, long weekends and at 

Christmas and Easter. Vic Roads has been supportive by sealing the 

parking area and access roads. “There has not been a fatality on that 

section of the highway at any time when the stop has been open,” said 

Dimboola President Elect Harry John. 

25

Convention bids 2014: Seeking expressions of interest! 

Districts and Clubs who wish to be considered to host the 2014 Multiple District 

Convention must submit their bid to the Executive Officer, consistent with Clause 62 of 

the Multiple District Constitution. 

Bids must comply with all provisions of the Multiple District Constitution and the 

Multiple District Convention Bid Specification that can be obtained from the Executive 

Officer. I would encourage prospective bidders to discuss their plans with me, prior to 

submitting the bid. Executive Officer, Rob Oerlemans 

26 

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS 

COMMITTEE VACANCIES 

Please note 

From 31 May 2011 statements for outstanding balances 

are being sent to clubs and districts via email. This move 

is to consume less time and paper resources. If you 

would prefer to receive your statement via post or would 

like to update your email address details please contact 

the National Office on customerservice@lions.org.au or 

(02) 4940 8033. 

Lion

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS 

Want to help your local 

community and earn extra 

cash? 

The next Census is on 9 August, 2011 

and the Australian Bureau of Statistics 

is looking for 29,000 community 

minded people to fill Census Collector 

roles across urban, regional and remote 

areas of Australia. 

The positions are part-time, homebased, 

with flexible hours including 

evening and weekend work. The job 

requires you to door knock in your local 

area dropping off and collecting Census 

forms and meeting residents along the 

way. Collectors are paid an hourly rate 

and earn $1300-$2800, plus 

allowances. To apply for a Collector 

position go to www.abs.gov.au/census 

and fill in the short application form or 

call 1800 420 182. 


27

28 

708 million reasons to thank LCIF 

Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) 

is a global leader in humanitarian service, 

awarding more than $708 million since its 

founding in 1968. 

Lions around the world enable LCIF to improve 

the lives of millions. Lions are 

inspired to donate to 

LCIF for 

different 

reasons, but 

they share a 

spirit of 

generosity and 

service. Here 

are a few Lions 

who have made 

contributing to 

LCIF an important 

part of their lives. 

We thank them, and 

we thank you – Lions 

who have given. 

GABRIELE 

SABATOSANTI 

SCARPELLI: Bringing fun and 

service together 

Genova Porto Antico Lions Club 

District 108-IA2, Italy 

With the goal of raising $200 

million, Campaign SightFirst II 

(CFSII) was Lions’ most ambitious 

fundraising campaign ever. 

Scarpelli’s Lions club was up for 

Carlos 

Justiniano 

(left) visited 

Haiti to help 

oversee relief 

efforts, while 

Japanese Lion 

Isamu Arino 

donates 

$1,000 

monthly. 

the challenge. In true Lions fashion, 

his club found ways to have fun 

while giving to those in need. Club 

members worked together to 

organise a Mediterranean cruise, two regattas, 

card tournaments and lotteries. The club raised 

$42,000 and recognised each club member with 

a MJF. 

Scarpelli and his fellow Lions know their hard 

work to raise funds will help many people; on 

average, just $6 results in someone having their 

vision restored. His club plans to continue its LCIF 

support. “Through LCIF it is possible to realise 

large-scale service and achieve goals that were 

unattainable with the individual resources,” he 

said. 

ISAMU ARINO: Giving back after regaining 

sight 

Miki Chou Lions Club 

District 335-D, Japan 

About 15 years ago, Isamu Arino was relaxing at 

home when suddenly his eyesight became blurry. 

He was diagnosed with a cerebral hemorrhage 

caused by diabetes. After a year without sight and 

enduring two operations, he regained his vision. 

Filled with appreciation, Arino wanted to share his 

gratitude and help others, so he became a Lion. 

Arino participated in many Lions’ activities and 

after visiting LCIF-funded 

earthquake recovery 

projects in India, he 

decided to donate 

$1000 to LCIF every 

month until he 

reaches the top level 

of the Progressive 

Melvin Jones 

Fellowship of 

$100,000. 

How does he 

do it? “I do my 

monthly PMJF 

donation by 

scrimping 

on my 

salary. Growing up, my family was poor and I was 

not able to go to high school. I am now happy that 

this once poor boy can now help people in need 

through LCIF.” 

CARLOS JUSTINIANO: Lions are family 

Mayaguez Lions Club 

District 51-O, Puerto Rico 

After many years as a Lion, Carlos Justiniano 

became familiar with LCIF’s work while serving as 

district governor and as international director. 

“During a visit to Kenya, I saw with my own eyes 

people who walked 20 to 30 miles to get 

assistance at the Lions hospital there. The 

gratitude in their smiles convinced me of the 

importance of LCIF.” 

Inspired to do more for LCIF, Justiniano became 

a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow (PMJF). After 

giving an initial $1000 donation to become a 

Melvin Jones Fellow, Lions can extend their 

commitment with additional US$1000 PMJF gifts 

up to $100,000. 

Because he wants other Lions to join the three 

generations of his family who are now MJFs, 

Justiniano has helped several other Lions reach 

this goal by donating $200 toward their MJFs. 

Lion

CONVENTION CALL: In compliance with 

Article VI, Section 2 of the International By- 

Laws, I hereby issue the Official Call for 

the 2011 International Convention. Our 

94th International Convention will be held 

in Seattle, Washington, United States. It 

begins at 8:30am July 4 and ends July 8. 

The purpose of the convention is to elect a 

president, first vice president, second vice 

president and 17 members of the 

International Board of Directors and to 

transact such other business as may 

properly come before the meeting. 

Convention attendees this year will find 

Seattle an outstanding destination city. Known 

MEET THE 2ND VICE PRESIDENT CANDIDATES 

As of press time, there were eight candidates for 

International Second Vice President. The election 

will take place on July 8 at the International 

Convention in Seattle, Washington. 

Phil Nathan: Phil Nathan, of 

Earls Colne, England, was 

elected to serve a two-year term 

as an international director from 

1999-2001. He has been a Lion 

since 1982 and a charter 

member of the South Woodham 

Ferrers Lions Club since 1989. 

A stockbroker and director of a 

company, Nathan served as 

Europa Forum president in 2006, holds trustee status on 

seven different boards of charitable trusts and is active in 

many professional, civic and community organisations. In 

2001, he was recognised by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 

II with an MBE, a Member of the British Empire. 

Steven Sherer: Past 

International Director Steven 

Sherer, of New Philadelphia, 

Ohio, is a licensed public 

accountant and has been a 

member of the Dover Lions Club 

since 1980. He has attended 19 

international conventions and 12 

USA/Canada Lions Leadership 

Forums. He is a GMT area coordinator and the recipient of 

several international awards including the Ambassador of 

Good Will Award and International Leadership Awards. He 

has been honoured with a Distinguished Citizens Award in 

his community and is active in many professional and 

community organisations. 

Barry J. Palmer: Elected to 

serve as International Director 

from 2000 to 2002, Barry 

Palmer is a resident of Berowra, 

NSW, Australia. A member of the 

Hornsby Lions Club since 1976, 

Palmer has served on many 

club, district, multiple district and 

international levels of the 

association. A real estate 

company director, he is also the recipient of the Australian 


Convention Call 

as the Emerald City and located in the 

northwest corner of the United States, Seattle is 

home to many fine restaurants and various 

tourist attractions. 

The international convention is always a 

festive and memorable occasion. The week will 

start with the colourful international parade 

followed that evening with the outstanding, 

multicultural international show. During the week 

Lions will have the opportunity to attend various 

seminars. At the first plenary session, it will be 

my honour to share with you a year of service 

where Lions shined brightly as Beacons of 

Hope. The week will conclude on Friday with an 

address by former U.S. Secretary of State 

Medal from the government of Australia and the Australian 

Childhood Cancer Research Award. He was a volunteer at 

the Sydney Olympics and is the recipient of several 

honours from Lions Clubs International. 

Dr. Carlos E. Justiniano: A 

resident of Mayaguez, Puerto 

Rico, Dr. Justiniano has been a 

Lion since 1979 and served as 

an international director from 

1993 to 1995. He is a member 

of the Mayaguez Lions Club. An 

orthodontist, he is also the CFO 

of the Justi Corporation. Past 

International Director Justiniano is active in many 

professional, civic and community associations and the 

recipient of numerous awards. He has served as a 

discussion leader and moderator at USA/Canada Lions 

Leadership Forums as well as at Latin American and 

Caribbean Forums. 

Dr. Harold R. Ott: From 

Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, he was 

elected to serve on the 

International Board of Directors 

at the association’s 90th 

international convention in 

Chicago, Illinois, in 2007. A 

retired university administrator, 

he is a member of the Harris 

Township Lions Club and has been a Lion since 1980. 

Active in many professional and community organisations, 

he has been a presenter and discussion leader at Lions 

leadership forums, a group leader for the District 

Governors-Elect School and co-presenter at Council 

Chairpersons Seminars. 

G. Ramaswamy: Past 

International Director G. 

Ramaswamy joined the Annur 

Town Lions Club in 1985, and is 

a resident of Coimbatore, India. 

Serving as an international 

director from 1996 to 1998, he 

has been recognised for 

sponsoring more than 900 new 

members into Lions clubs. He 

also was selected to serve as an appointee to the 

Condoleezza Rice followed by the installation of 

the 2011-2012 international president and 

district governors . 

The Lions of Multiple District 19 will welcome 

their visitors and ensure that their stay is 

enjoyable and that this convention will be one of 

the most outstanding. I encourage you to be a 

part of this special Lions event. 

Signed by me at Oak Brook, Illinois, United 

States of America, this 10th day of May 2011. 

Warmest regards, 

Sid L. Scruggs III, President 

The International Association of Lions 

Clubs 

International Board of Directors from 1999 to 2000, 2005 

to 2006 and 2006 to 2007. Ramaswamy is an industrialist 

and the recipient of numerous professional, civic and 

community awards. 

Harri Ala-Kulju: A member of 

the Espoo Keskusta Lions Club 

in Finland since 1977, Past 

International Director Harri Ala- 

Kulju is an insurance director 

who is active in many 

community organisations. He 

was elected to the International 

Board of Directors at the 

association’s 84th international convention held in 

Indianapolis, Indiana, in 2001. He served as the campaign 

manager of the Scandinavian Red Feather Campaign in 

Finland and as chairman of the Nordic Council. 

Salim Moussan: Past 

International Director Salim 

Moussan, of Beirut, Lebanon, 

was elected to serve on the 

International Board of Directors 

at the association’s 80th 

international convention held in 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 

1997. The owner of a trading company, he is involved in 

many professional and community organisations and has 

been a presenter at three international conventions and 

served as chairman of the 23rd South Asia, Africa and 

Middle East Lions Leadership Forum. He is the founder of 

the Lions Eye Centre in Lebanon. 

HAVE YOU CHANGED 

YOUR ADDRESS? 

If you have changed your address, 

could you please contact your 

Cabinet Secretary to ensure that 

your new details are updated. 

29

30 

Front page triumph 

It pays to promote. Just ask members of Newcastle’s 

Jesmond Lions. 

When they donated to help the local John Hunter Children’s 

Hospital to upgrade Cubby Corner in the Fairy Garden, a hideaway 

at the hospital where children can forget their problems, they 

notified the local newspaper The Star. 

The result was a front-page story with the picture at left. 

Jesmond was helped in its $11,550 donation by ALF. 

Tucked away from treatments, needles and x-ray machines, the 

garden is lush and quiet and just the tonic for young patients. 

Picture: The Star - Newcastle and Lake Macquarie 

Happy sizzlers 

Hard at work cooking are members N1’s 

Valla Lions at a sausage sizzle to support 

the Mid North Coast Disabled Surfers 

Association. 

It was held in conjunction with Luke 

Hartsuyker’s annual bike ride. The ride, which 

starts at Maclean and finishes at South West 

Rocks, takes three days of hard riding to 

complete. 

Luke, the Federal MP for Cowper, and the 

other riders stopped at the club’s sizzle for lunch 

on the second day where Robyn Parker, 

President of the Valla club, presented a donation 

of $500. 

The ride is expected to raise about $8000 and 

Valla Lions were happy to play their part. 

The Disabled Surfers Association provides 

people with disabilities the opportunity to 

experience the fun and thrill of the surf. 

In the past, the ride has made possible the 

purchase of much needed equipment and the 

hosting of open days up and down the Mid North 

Coast. 

“The Disabled Surfers Association do some 

great work providing people with disabilities the 

chance to go to the beach and get in the surf,” 

Luke Hartsuyker said. 

Lion

Become a Youth Exchange Greeter 

The Multiple District Youth 

Exchange Committee is seeking 

greeters at our major airports 

and has done so off and on for 

some period of time with mixed 

success. 

Ideally airports such as Melbourne, 

Sydney and Brisbane should have 

two to three greeters at any one time. 

Under the current policy greeters 

can be individuals or clubs, for 

practical purposes, situated close to 

the relative airport. It is an ideal way 

to assist with one of our major Youth 

Projects without the huge 

commitment one would have as a 

committee member. That aside, the 

position does have a couple of peak 

times and there also can be the 

occasional out-of-program exchange, 

although these are rare. 

The position of greeter is by 

application though the Multiple 

District Office and is by Council 

appointment for a three-year term. 

The position statement for Council 

appointed Greeters spells out an 

important responsibility and a reason 

for the necessity to have Greeters at 

our major airports – i.e. “safe and 

efficient throughput of all youth 

exchangees, both nominated and 

hosted.” 

This responsibility entails the 

following important duties: 

Supervise all youth exchange 

arrival, transfer and departures, for 

both domestic and international 

airport movements, and other 

transport arrangements, relative to 

the airport(s) and/or rail/bus 

terminals. 

Transfer to ongoing flights/journeys 

to outlying areas and interstate. 

Meet all exchangees for their 

departure from Australia and assist 

with pre-departure check-in and exit 

through immigration areas. 

Arrange overnight hosting as 

required with Lions members as 

requested by Program Chairmen. 

Unsupervised stopovers are 


not permitted. 

Assist, where possible, the District 

Youth Exchange Chairmen with the 

mandatory District seminars for youth 

travelling aboard. 

Assist chaperones at airports with 

outbound program youth. 

Assist, as requested from the 

Program Chairmen, with the 

departure seminars conducted prior 

to the departure of Australian 

exchangees. 

With the first two dot points, there 

are times where youth who arrive by 

air are required to utilise other travel 

arrangements (bus/train) and a 

greeter is the person with the 

knowledge as to how best to make 

those transfers. Also, there are times 

when a host family/Lions member is 

unable to arrive on time (for various 

reasons) and the greeter is there to 

take the call and explain to the youth. 

With dot points three and four, with 

the possibility of cancelled flights/any 

reason, for the interruption to a 

youth’s travel arrangements, Greeters 

are there to make the decision as to 

what arrangements need to be put in 

place for the youth. 

With dot points five to seven, there 

are times where the Greeters are 

requested to attend District Seminars, 

so as to explain matters relating to 

the airport he/she supervises at and 

procedures necessary prior to 

departure. Also, his/her assistance 

with pre-departure can be of great 

benefit to chaperones/families etc. 

At our three major airports, the 

necessity to go from one terminal to 

another may be daunting to some 

youth who may be travelling overseas 

for the first time; a helping hand may 

be just what is required to settle 

some nerves. There are youth who 

are seasoned travellers – BUT, NOT 

ALL. 

PDG Rod Bradley 

Chairman – MD201 Youth 

Exchange Committee 

YOUTH OF THE YEAR 

Convention’s youth focus 

Having returned from the Multiple District Convention – my first as 

Chairman – I can honestly say the theme was on youth. 

On the Friday we were entertained by six amazing young people who 

represented the six states and territories of Australia. Again we commenced 

with over 2000 contestants at club level, and through the various levels our 

judges selected these six as being worthy of representing their states, to 

decide who should become this year’s National Winner. 

I congratulate this year’s state winners, Raynor Hicks (C District), Public 

Speaking winner Nathan Barnden (N District), Brooke Snow (Q District), 

Stuart McKenzie (V District), Max Rintoul (T District) and our National Winner 

Gillian Mahony (W District) for their excellent presentations. 

I hope that as these young adults travel to the hometown of each of the 

other winners that you all have the opportunity to meet them and listen to 

what they have to say. For those Lions who have not had the opportunity to 

participate in this wonderful program, you may be able to understand why 

so many clubs continue year after year to sponsor a student. The results 

speak for themselves. 

The youth theme continued throughout the convention:- On Saturday, our 

keynote speaker was Father Chris Riley. Father Chris is the CEO of Youth Off 

the Streets. He oversees the operation of 20 programs that employ 150 

people and involve more than 800 volunteers. 

Some may remember that Father Chris was awarded a Melvin Jones 

Fellowship on the stage at the Melbourne Convention in 2008 and in 2009 

he was the first Australian to be awarded a Lions Clubs International 

Humanitarian Award. 

Father Chris spoke about his work with street children, those children 

who through no fault of their own find themselves on the streets. He spoke 

of 10-year-old girls selling their bodies for a can of beer. He believes there is 

no such thing as a “child born bad” but acknowledges there are bad 

environments, circumstances and families that impact negatively on our 

young. 

On the Sunday we heard from our second keynote speaker, PID Barry 

Palmer AM, our candidate for International 2nd Vice President. He praised 

Father Chris’ work, and challenged Lions to match the $5000 donation made 

the previous day by District T1 to assist Father Chris in his work, by each 

district donating $5000 by June 30 2011. That equates to just $100 per 

club. 

Father Chris receives only 40% of his funding from the government yet 

still manages to run one of the largest youth services in Australia, offering 

residential rehabilitation, counselling and street-based programs. 

PID Barry Palmer continued by praising the speeches that our Youth of 

the Year gave and admitting that he had a tear in his eye when Nathan 

Barnden (N District) finished his speech on “Remembering the Fallen”. 

Nathan has gone on to be interviewed by ABC Radio NSW and actually did 

his speech live on air as a lead-up to ANZAC Day. 

It was mentioned that the future of Lions will come from our youth, and 

that we should be embracing these young people and nurturing their 

enthusiasm. 

At the beginning of the journey these students are nervous and 

apprehensive about what confronts them. With gentle nurturing and 

encouragement from our fabulous Lions Club Chairmen, they realise they 

can speak for five minutes without forgetting the words, and the two 

impromptu questions are not as difficult as they first anticipated. The judges 

were full of encouragement throughout the interview process. 

What follows is an amazing journey that culminates in six contestants, 

one from each state and territory, competing for the title of National Winner. 

However, all six receive a fabulous trip to the hometown of each of the other 

contestants during a whirlwind 35-day tour of Australia, while the overall 

winner has the opportunity to represent the Lions clubs at a Youth Forum 

overseas. 

Our amazing Lions members, who have guided these equally fantastic 

young people from being students to young adults, gain as much enjoyment 

and satisfaction from being part of the journey as do the contestants. 

This is a fantastic program and it will only get better if all Lions feel they 

have ownership of the program, be it at club level or through the Zone, 

Region and District levels. Everyone is part of the journey. 

Bryan Coggle, Chairman 

Lions Youth of the Year Quest 

31

Give our kids a chance - Lions Australia

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